Best of 14 japanese anime stores in San Francisco
Japanese anime stores in San Francisco are a haven for anime enthusiasts. These specialized shops offer a wide variety of anime merchandise, including DVDs, manga, figurines, and collectibles. They provide a unique shopping experience, allowing fans to explore and purchase products related to their favorite anime series. Whether you're a seasoned collector or new to the anime scene, these stores in San Francisco are a must-visit.
1. Anime pop
2. Ying Hobbies & Toys
Excellent customer service, knowledgeable staff, and family-friendly atmosphere
This is a small but well-stocked hobby store, filled with a variety of Anime models and even a selection of car models. The staff members are friendly and helpful, making it a pleasant shopping experience. It is a great place to find specific items, such as paint colors that may be difficult to find elsewhere.
If you're looking for a local hobby or game store, this is an excellent choice. Despite its unassuming exterior, it offers a wide range of products. The store is a little cramped, but that doesn't take away from the friendly atmosphere or the quality of the items available. Shoppers will appreciate the helpfulness of the staff and the unique selection of Anime and car models. It's definitely worth checking out if you're in the area.
3. KAYO SF ( UniQ SF )
4. Japan Video & Media
Expertise in Japanese video and media equipment
Japan Video and Media Inc., located in the Japan Center Mall, offers an extensive selection of movies from Japan and Asia. The store’s anime selection is particularly impressive, with a wide variety of options available for fans of the genre. In addition to anime, Japan Video and Media Inc. also carries a range of other Japanese films and dramas, as well as plush toys that are perfect for hugging.
The store’s selection of Japanese and Asian movies is one of the most comprehensive I have ever seen. In addition to anime, the store carries a range of other Japanese films and dramas, as well as a variety of plush toys that are sure to appeal to collectors and enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of Japanese culture or simply looking to explore something new, Japan Video and Media Inc. is definitely worth a visit.
5. Miniso USA
Japanese inspired design, minimalist style
The Asian variety store, Miniso, recently opened and has already attracted a lot of attention. This Japanese discount store is similar to Daiso, but with some differences. I recently visited Miniso after a coworker told me about it, and I was impressed by the wide variety of items available, from lego-like toys and hair brushes to kitchen utensils and stuffed animals. The prices were also quite reasonable, ranging from $2.00 to $11.00.
One notable difference between Miniso and Daiso is their return policy. Miniso allows customers to return most items within 7 days of purchase, which is not common in discount stores. The employees were also very polite, with smiles on their faces as they restocked shelves and helped customers. I was happy with my purchase, a super soft penguin that I got for under $4.00. I can't wait to visit Miniso again and see what other treasures I can find.
6. Katachi
Warm and cozy atmosphere, popular among locals
This store offers an impressive selection of figurines, some of the best I have come across. However, the customer service is disappointing. On a recent visit, my family and I drove a significant distance to purchase a replica sword, but the staff was unhelpful.
Despite there being three employees, none of them offered to assist us in locating the item. They remained seated the entire time, and when we asked if they had the sword in stock, they didn't even bother to check. Instead, they all denied having the item, even though it was listed as in-stock online. This inconsistency between their online and in-store inventory is concerning and further highlights their poor customer service.
7. Daiso
Everything is $1.50, tax included
This location is a dream for anime enthusiasts, offering a wide selection of Japanese anime series and OVAs for purchase. The store is unique in that it features two separate stories, each with its own entrance. The first floor is dedicated to anime and manga, making it easy for visitors to find their favorite series and discover new ones. The second floor is a bookstore, providing an additional attraction for those who enjoy reading.
The store's set up allows for a smooth and enjoyable shopping experience, with the separate entrances ensuring that the anime and book sections do not become crowded or overwhelming. Anime fans will love the extensive collection of series and the convenience of having a store dedicated to their interests. Overall, this store is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves Japanese anime.
8. Mission: Comics & Art
Knowledgeable and passionate staff, welcoming atmosphere
Comic shops today are often filled with new releases, back issues, and toys. However, Mission: Comics & Art stands out from the rest by specializing in trades and graphic novels, and displaying them in a spacious and inviting storefront. This comic shop offers a wide range of both mainstream and independent publishers, including comics, graphic novels, art zines, and even some Japanese anime merchandise.
What sets Mission Comics & Art apart is their focus on trades and graphic novels, which they display beautifully throughout their large storefront. They offer a vast selection of offerings from both mainstream and independent publishers, not just comics but also art zines and Japanese anime merchandise. This unique approach to showcasing their merchandise creates a refreshing and welcoming atmosphere for customers.
9. Sakura
Traditional and cozy atmosphere
Sakura Japanese Discount Store offers a wide selection of anime merchandise, making it an ideal destination for anime fans. The store stocks a range of hard-to-find items that fans may struggle to locate elsewhere. It is a true treasure trove for anime enthusiasts, with an assortment of anime figures, posters, and collectibles available for purchase.
The store's diverse inventory makes it a standout choice for anime fans seeking unique merchandise. Whether you're looking for anime figures, decorative posters, or other collectibles, Sakura Japanese Discount Store is sure to have something that catches your eye. Its impressive selection of anime merchandise makes it a must-visit destination for collectors and fans alike.
10. Isotope Comics
Knowledgeable staff and welcoming atmosphere
This establishment offers a unique selection of comics and graphic novels, including Japanese anime titles, making it a must-visit for any comic book fan. The inventory is diverse and includes Japanese manga, attracting enthusiasts of various preferences.
The staff at this comic book store are exceptionally friendly and knowledgeable, contributing to a great experience for customers. The diverse range of comics available, from classic superhero stories to Japanese anime and manga, caters to a wide array of interests.
11. Super7
Popular culture-inspired products, exclusive collaborations
Super7 is a store that carries a wide selection of action figure collectibles from the 80s and 90s, bringing nostalgia to adults who grew up during those decades. Among the items they offer are products related to the Star Wars Kenner line, which is sure to excite collectors and fans of the franchise.
The store is a treasure trove of geeky pop culture merchandise, carrying everything from action figures to t-shirts and even posable cutouts of popular characters like Skeletor. It's impossible to walk out of Super7 without finding something to add to your collection.
12. Heroes Club / Art Of Toys
13. Amiko Boutique
14. Asiastar Fantasy INC