Ever dreamed of a place where your favorite anime and manga come to life? Animate Ikebukuro Main Store is that dream turned reality! Nestled in the heart of Tokyo’s vibrant Ikebukuro district, this colossal store is a paradise for fans worldwide.
- Why You Can’t Miss This Anime Haven
- What Awaits You Inside
- Experiences at Animate Ikebukuro Main Store
- Animate Ikebukuro Main Store: Officially Recognized as the World’s Largest Anime Shop!
- A 360° Tour Inside Animate Ikebukuro Main Store
- Animate Ikebukuro Floor Guide
- 9th Floor: Event Space / Animate Hall BLACK & Animate Hall WHITE
- 8th Floor: Space Galleria
- 7th Floor: Animate ONLY SHOP
- 6th Floor: CD, DVD/Blu-ray, and Games
- 5th Floor: Character Goods
- 4th Floor: Character Goods
- 3rd Floor: Manga and Art Supplies
- 2nd Floor: Manga
- 1st Floor: Character Goods, Animate Cafe Gratte Ikebukuro, and In-Store Pickup
- B2F: Animate Theater
- Animate Ikebukuro Main Store Information
- Payment Methods (Tax-Free Options Available)
- Animate Ikebukuro Official Websites and Social Media Links
- Animate Pay
- How to Start Using Animate Pay
- FAQ
Why You Can’t Miss This Anime Haven
Imagine nine floors (plus two basement levels!) packed to the brim with the latest manga, exclusive character goods, and immersive experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned otaku or just starting your anime journey, there’s something here that’ll make your heart skip a beat.
A Record-Breaking Adventure
Did we mention it’s officially recognized by Guinness World Records as the world’s largest anime shop? That’s right! This isn’t just a store; it’s a landmark that celebrates the very essence of anime culture.
What Awaits You Inside
From life-sized character statues to themed cafes where your latte art features beloved characters, every corner is Instagram-worthy. Special events, limited-edition merchandise, and interactive displays ensure that no two visits are ever the same. Set aside plenty of time—trust us, you’ll need it! With so much to see and do, a quick visit can easily turn into an all-day affair.
Experiences at Animate Ikebukuro Main Store
February 2024
In 2023, Animate Ikebukuro Main Store expanded even further by incorporating the site of the former Toshima Public Health Center next door. Now, this flagship store spans from B2 to the 9th floor, offering one of Japan’s largest collections of manga, books, character goods, and more, including special collaboration events.
The park in front of the store is home to Animate Cafe Stand Hareza, which has even been featured in several anime series, turning it into a sacred spot for fans.
The store’s operating hours are typically 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM on weekdays and 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM on weekends. However, during special events, customers often start lining up as early as 10:00 AM. Free giveaway events are held frequently in front of the store or in the 9th-floor hall, adding to the lively atmosphere.
After its March 2023 renewal, the store is now gleaming with newness, boasting life-sized character panels on each floor, wrapped staircases, and autographed displays, making it a place where you can easily spend an entire day without getting bored.
August 2023
I visited Animate Ikebukuro to enjoy a coffee at the Gratte Cafe and purchase some goods. The store, which recently underwent renovations, is incredibly bright and clean. The variety of goods is impressive, and when I asked the staff for help, they were incredibly polite and helpful. I definitely want to visit again!
July 2022
There are Animate stores across Japan, but this is the flagship location—and the scale is incomparable! While weekends and holidays can get crowded, visiting on a weekday is much more relaxed.
Whenever I have a specific item in mind, I head straight for it, but the store has everything from mainstream to niche manga, plus an extensive selection of character goods.
Some may find climbing the stairs up to the 8th floor challenging, but if you go straight to the top and work your way down, it’s not that difficult. Besides, there are interesting displays along the stairways, so you can enjoy every corner of this expansive anime paradise.
December 2020
Compared to other Animate locations, this one is significantly larger and offers a much broader selection (according to my anime-obsessed teenage daughter). There’s a surprisingly high percentage of female customers, and with Demon Slayer trending right now, that area of the store was especially crowded.
July 2020
The variety of anime goods here is incredible—you’ll find just about anything! Even the stairs and elevators are decorated with anime themes, making it a dream space for any anime fan. The different floors are divided by genre, making it easy to find exactly what you’re looking for.
November 2019
I’ve been visiting this store since it opened at its previous location. On my recent visit, I was amazed by how much bigger it’s become—it’s now an entire building dedicated to anime!
The elevators have character illustrations from recommended shows, and you can even hear voice-overs from famous voice actors, which adds a special touch. Each floor is organized by product category, making it convenient to shop, and the selection is vast. Despite the size, it’s surprisingly easy to find what you’re looking for thanks to the smart layout and prominent anime titles displayed throughout.
Animate Ikebukuro Main Store: Officially Recognized as the World’s Largest Anime Shop!
*The following text is quoted from the article “https://www.guinnessworldrecords.jp/news/2024/4/animate-ikebukuro-flagship-store-now-officially-the-worlds-biggest-768683.”
On March 1, 2024, Animate Ikebukuro Main Store was officially recognized by Guinness World Records as the “Largest Anime Shop”!
The store spans an impressive 8,554.673 square meters across two basement levels and nine floors—equivalent to the size of 60 average family homes. Beyond its massive collection of character goods, manga, Blu-rays, and games, the store also houses dedicated event spaces like the Space Galleria (8th floor) and the Animate Theater with a seating capacity of up to 208 (B2 floor).
The Origins of Animate Ikebukuro
When Mr. Takahashi, a key figure in the industry, first entered the anime world, both the market for anime and anime goods were much smaller than they are today. Back then, anime merchandise was largely limited to children’s toys, and the market lacked options for older fans.
“In the early days, all we had were toys, mainly for young children. But as time passed, those who grew up watching anime became adults and wanted something more suited to their age. Not toys, but items they could proudly own.”
At the time, few shops catered to this demand, and thus, Animate Ikebukuro opened as a specialized store for anime goods. Takahashi worked tirelessly to meet fan expectations, sourcing items that weren’t typically available.
“The major sponsors were only making toys and children’s products, so I went out searching for items that would appeal to more serious fans. I traveled to animation studios and production sites, collecting everything from used animation cels to production setting materials and storyboards.”
Expanding for Fans
As Animate Ikebukuro gained popularity, the store expanded. By the 1990s, it occupied three floors, and in 2000, it moved to a new nine-story building, marking the birth of the first “Animate Ikebukuro Main Store.” In 2012, it relocated to its current location, further solidifying its presence as a top destination for anime fans.
Takahashi credits part of Animate’s growth to the changing perception of anime fans:
“Initially, people saw Animate as a store exclusively for hardcore anime and comic fans. But now, it’s a place that anyone can enjoy—even as a date spot. It’s become more inclusive.”
The store’s philosophy shifted to create a fun atmosphere for everyone, even for those just dropping by to browse. This expansion wasn’t without its challenges, but a golden opportunity arose.
“The building next door became available as part of a redevelopment plan by Toshima Ward, which included moving the nearby health center. We submitted a proposal and were fortunate to have our plans approved, allowing us to expand Animate into the adjacent site.”
This expansion more than doubled the store’s size, and with the additional space, they were able to incorporate the Animate Theater in the basement.
“I was thrilled. Finally, we had a place where customers could always find something fun, even if they just stopped by without a plan.”
Aiming for Guinness World Records
With the two buildings combined, Animate Ikebukuro Main Store became a colossal anime shop, and the next goal was clear—achieving world recognition. The idea of applying for the Guinness World Record came from the staff, and Takahashi, who had always admired Guinness records, fully supported the initiative.
They meticulously gathered construction blueprints and verified the store’s layout. The final step was precise measurement, conducted with the help of certified professionals, including a first-class architect, a land and house investigator, and a surveyor. The rigorous process left a lasting impression on everyone involved.
In the end, the store officially achieved the Guinness World Record for the largest anime shop. Takahashi, reflecting on this accomplishment, thought first of the fans who had supported the store from the beginning.
“I’m overjoyed. Truly. We started with a much smaller group of anime fans, some of whom may have even felt marginalized at times. It’s these fans who helped grow this store. Achieving this record is not just a win for us, but for them as well.”
The Driving Force Behind the World’s Largest Anime Shop
As one of the most influential figures in the anime goods industry, Mr. Takahashi is a huge anime fan himself. However, his passion for anime is surpassed by his desire to create a space where fans can enjoy the culture to its fullest.
“When I see customers walk in and smile, it feels like they’ve stepped into a treasure chest. As someone working in this industry, that’s incredibly rewarding. It’s something I’ll never get tired of.”
Takahashi also emphasizes the importance of anime as a key cultural asset for Japan:
“When I give talks overseas, I’m always impressed by the local interpreters. Their Japanese is impeccable, and when I ask them how they learned it, they say, ‘from anime.’ The students listening to the lecture are equally enthusiastic, their eyes sparkling with excitement. They’re deeply interested in Japanese culture, and they love Japan.”
“Japan doesn’t have resources like oil or steel, but I believe anime is one of our greatest resources. And unlike natural resources, anime doesn’t fuel conflict. In fact, it brings people together. In that sense, anime is a remarkable resource, and I’m grateful to be a part of it.”
A Place for Global Friendship
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Takahashi envisions Animate Ikebukuro as more than just a shop—it’s a place that fosters friendships and connections through a shared love of anime. His goal is to continue offering fans a place that lives up to its Guinness World Record title.
“I believe Animate Ikebukuro Main Store is a place where fans can truly feel proud—it’s not just the largest, but also a space that keeps evolving. We will continue to bring joy to anime and manga fans worldwide. Even if you’re already familiar with many things, I believe you’ll still find something new and exciting here. I hope you’ll visit us soon!”
A 360° Tour Inside Animate Ikebukuro Main Store
Step inside the vibrant world of Animate Ikebukuro with a 360° camera tour, and explore each floor’s unique offerings. Whether you’re looking for exclusive anime merchandise or searching for the latest games and CDs, this guide will help you navigate the fun and excitement awaiting you.
6th Floor: CD, DVD/Blu-ray, and Games Floor
- Net Creator Goods Area
Explore an array of goods from popular online creators. This area is perfect for fans of internet-based artists and influencers. - Trading Card Game (TCG) Goods Area
For TCG enthusiasts, this section features all the related merchandise you need, from card decks to protective sleeves and more. - Poster Display Area
Discover the latest anime and game posters adorning the walls of this vibrant section. - Old CD Collection Area
Dive into a collection of older CDs, a haven for collectors and long-time anime fans looking to revisit classic tunes. - 2.5D Stage, Voice Actor, and Artist Goods Area
A specialized area dedicated to merchandise from 2.5D stage plays, as well as items from popular voice actors and music artists.
5th Floor: Character Goods Floor
- Character Goods Area ①
Featuring a wide variety of character goods from beloved anime and manga series, including everything from keychains to limited edition items. - Character Goods Area ②
This section expands the offering of anime goods, with merchandise that spans across multiple popular franchises. - Character Goods Area ③
A treasure trove for collectors, featuring exclusive and seasonal goods from top anime series. - Character Goods Area ④
Packed with adorable items, this corner specializes in plushies, charms, and other cute character merchandise. - Character Goods Area ⑤
Offering unique collaborations and special edition items, this area provides a must-see experience for any dedicated anime fan.
This 360° tour guide ensures that fans can navigate the store with ease, while enjoying the entertainment and relaxation offered by Animate Ikebukuro. With clear headings and bullet points, it’s structured to be both informative and enjoyable for readers seeking the best of anime culture.
Animate Ikebukuro Floor Guide
Below is a comprehensive guide to each floor at Animate Ikebukuro, showcasing the various entertainment and relaxation experiences offered across multiple levels. Each floor provides unique services and spaces for anime, manga, games, and more.
9th Floor: Event Space / Animate Hall BLACK & Animate Hall WHITE
This floor features two multi-purpose halls that host a wide range of events such as autograph sessions, live performances, film screenings, and talk shows.
- Animate Hall BLACK: Maximum capacity of 250 seats.
- Animate Hall WHITE: Maximum capacity of 150 seats.
8th Floor: Space Galleria
The Space Galleria is a specialized exhibition area showcasing works from various genres, including anime, manga, novels, games, and theater. It brings to life the world of selected works and artists, offering an immersive experience for fans.
7th Floor: Animate ONLY SHOP
A dedicated retail space featuring anime, manga, and game merchandise. The space offers not only products but also panel displays, photo spots, and opportunities to enjoy your favorite works up close. Surround yourself with the characters and worlds you love.
6th Floor: CD, DVD/Blu-ray, and Games
This floor offers a wide selection of music and video products related to anime, games, voice actors, and artists. In addition to game software, you’ll find 2.5D musical merchandise, Blu-rays, and even streaming-related goods.
- Duel Space: The store’s first-ever dedicated area for card games.
- Large LED Screen: Daily fun videos are broadcasted to enhance your shopping experience.
5th Floor: Character Goods
Find joy in discovering a wide variety of character goods, from trading items to straps and keychains. The selection here is one of the largest, covering everything from popular games to classic anime merchandise.
4th Floor: Character Goods
This floor features a new section called Space A la Mode, offering apparel and accessories in collaboration with popular anime. Additionally, you’ll find plush toys, badge covers, and other non-character products like Itabag supplies.
3rd Floor: Manga and Art Supplies
Primarily focused on shoujo manga, boys’ love (BL) works, magazines, and doujinshi. The floor also hosts regular limited-time events at the Waku Waku Space, providing unique experiences for manga lovers.
2nd Floor: Manga
This floor caters to shounen and seinen manga, as well as light novels. The floor features a Recommendation Corner that highlights the hottest titles and staff picks, ensuring that fans always stay updated on the latest trends.
1st Floor: Character Goods, Animate Cafe Gratte Ikebukuro, and In-Store Pickup
The first floor is packed with character goods, including capsule machines (gachapon), and the Animate Cafe Gratte Ikebukuro, where you can enjoy graphic lattes with characters printed on the cream, along with icing cookies.
- In-Store Pickup Service: A dedicated counter near the cash registers for convenient order pickups.
Animate Cafe Gratte Ikebukuro Main Store
(Opened January 26, 2023)
Business Hours:
- Weekdays: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Last Order at 7:30 PM)
- Weekends & Holidays: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Last Order at 6:30 PM)
Please note that the closing time differs from that of Animate Ikebukuro Main Store.
What is Gratte?
Gratte (Graphic Latte) is a special drink where characters are printed on the cream, creating a fun and unique experience for anime fans!
How to Order:
Before heading to the register, please select your desired items at the self-service order ticket machine located in front of the counter.
No reservations are required for Gratte—simply drop by and enjoy whenever you visit!
Stay Connected:
- X (Twitter): Animate Cafe Gratte
- Official Website: Animate Cafe Gratte
B2F: Animate Theater
The Animate Theater boasts a seating capacity of up to 208, making it the perfect venue for plays, reading performances, and talk shows. It is a multi-purpose hall that hosts a variety of shows and performances, ensuring there’s always something entertaining to enjoy.
Animate Ikebukuro Main Store Information
- Phone Number: 03-3988-1351
- Business Hours:
- Weekdays: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Weekends & Holidays: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Address: 1-20-7 Higashi-Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo 170-0013
- Directions: 5-minute walk from Ikebukuro Station East Exit
Access from Ikebukuro Station
- Exit from Ikebukuro Station’s East Exit.
- With PARCO behind you, head straight down Sunshine Street between Mitsubishi UFJ Bank (ATM) and Sundrug.
- Continue straight on Sunshine Street and turn left at the third intersection (the street between ABC-Mart and Starbucks Coffee).
- Walk straight, and you will see the Animate sign on your right.
Access from Sunshine 60 Street
- Walk along Sunshine 60 Street.
- Turn left at the street between Round1 and Uniqlo.
- Walk straight, and you will see the Animate sign ahead.
Animeit Theater Entrance
- The exclusive entrance to the Animeit Theater is the left black door directly beneath the Animeit Vision (the large monitor in front of the store).
- Staff will guide you for each show. Please wait near the storefront until then.
- Currently, there is no plan for access from inside the store.
- For wheelchair users, please contact the staff for assistance.
Payment Methods (Tax-Free Options Available)
Credit Cards:
- MasterCard, VISA, Diners, Discover, TS CUBIC, UnionPay, Rakuten, JCB, AMERICAN EXPRESS
QR & Barcode Payments:
- Animate Pay, PayPay, J-coin, d Payment, Alipay, Rakuten Pay
Transportation IC Cards:
- Kitaca, Suica, PASMO, TOICA, manaca, ICOCA, SUGOCA, nimoca, hayakaken
Gift Cards:
- JCB
Smart Code:
- atone, ANA Pay, JAL Pay, au PAY, K PLUS (Kasikorn Bank), BNPJ Pay, pring, Merpay, LINE Pay, Bank Pay, Giftee Premo Plus, FamiPay
Others:
- Book Cards, Book Card NEXT, Book Coupons, au PAY Prepaid Cards, LINE Pay Cards, d Points
Chinese Mobile Payments:
- Alipay, WeChat Pay
Animate Ikebukuro Official Websites and Social Media Links
Stay connected with Animate Ikebukuro through a variety of online platforms. Whether you’re looking for the latest updates, product launches, or event news, these links will take you directly to their official sites and social media pages.
Official Websites and Social Media
| Platform | Link |
|---|---|
| Official Website (株式会社アニメイト) | Animate Official |
| Facebook (Animate English) | Facebook – Animate English |
| TikTok (Animate Japan) | TikTok – Animate |
| Weibo (Animate) | Weibo – Animate |
| YouTube (Animate Official) | YouTube – Animate |
| X (Twitter) (Animate Ikebukuro) | X (Twitter) – Animate |
| Instagram (Animate Japan) | Instagram – Animate |
| Instagram (Animate Global) | Instagram – Animate Global |
Animate Pay
Animate Pay is a convenient charge-based e-money service that allows you to make barcode payments directly from your smartphone. By pre-charging funds, you can use it in increments as small as ¥1. It supports various payment methods and can be used not only at Animate stores nationwide but also across a range of other services.
Key Features
Feature 1: Earn More Animate Points with Animate Pay!
When shopping at Animate, you’ll earn the highest point return rate using Animate Pay. Enjoy double the points with both charging and payments!
Feature 2: Hear a Special Message from the Animate Store Manager!
When you complete a charge or payment in-store, you’ll hear a special voice message from the iconic Animate Store Manager (voiced by Tomokazu Seki)!
Note: This feature is not available for online charges or payments.
How to Start Using Animate Pay
Getting started with Animate Pay is quick and easy with just three simple steps:
STEP 1: Install the Animate App
Download the app here
STEP 2: Register & Log In to Club Animate
STEP 3: Complete the Setup & Charge Your Balance
Accepted Charging Methods
You can charge your Animate Pay balance both in-store and online, with a variety of methods available.
Note: The 4% point return rate applies only to cash charges made at the store counter.
| Charging Method | Available In-Store | Available Online |
|---|---|---|
| Cash (at store register) | ✔️ | — |
| Credit Card | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Atone (post-payment) | — | ✔️ |
| Convenience Store Prepayment | — | ✔️ |
| ATM Payment | — | ✔️ |
| Mobile Carrier Payment | — | ✔️ |
FAQ
Q: Are there any membership or annual fees?
A: No, there are no fees for membership or usage.
Q: Does the Animate Pay balance have an expiration date?
A: Yes, the balance is valid for 24 months. The expiration will automatically extend if you charge or use your balance during that time.
Q: How do I start using Animate Pay?
A: If you are not yet a member of Club Animate, you will need to register for Club Animate and complete the Animate Pay setup, which includes agreeing to the terms and completing an ID verification process. If you are already a member, you only need to complete the setup.
Q: Do I need the Animate App to use Animate Pay?
A: Yes, for in-store payments, you will need to display the Animate Pay barcode via the Animate app. However, for Animate online stores such as Animate Online, Animate Bookstore, Pocket Drama CD, or Animate Games, the app is not required. You can use Animate Pay with just your Club Animate account.
Q: What is the minimum charge amount?
A:
- In-Store: From ¥1,000 to ¥49,000 in ¥1,000 increments.
- Online: From ¥500 to ¥10,000.
- The maximum balance you can hold is ¥100,000.
Q: What is the maximum amount I can charge?
A:
- In-Store: Up to ¥49,000 per transaction.
- Online: Up to ¥10,000 per transaction, with a 24-hour online charging limit of ¥30,000.
- The maximum balance you can hold is ¥100,000.
Q: Can I get a refund if I charge the wrong amount?
A: Once charged, balances cannot be refunded, so please double-check the amount before proceeding with the charge.
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