Tour of One of the World’s Largest Anime and Manga Shops

For anime and manga enthusiasts, a guided tour of the Animate Ikebukuro Main Store in Tokyo offers a truly immersive experience. As the world’s largest shop of its kind, this eight-story destination houses an astounding collection of character goods, publications, and more. With expert guides leading the way, visitors can explore the store’s unique event spaces and discover the depth of Japan’s vibrant pop culture scene. Whether browsing the shelves or learning about the industry, this adventure promises to transport fans into the heart of their beloved franchises.

Key Points

• Tour of the Animate Ikebukuro Main Store, certified as the world’s largest anime shop, offering a comprehensive introduction and guided exploration of its extensive offerings.
• Visitors can experience the immense scale and scope of the store, spanning over 8,500 square meters, with a vast selection of character goods, manga, and Blu-rays.
• The tour includes access to the store’s unique features, such as the Space Galleria event space and the Animate Theater, providing an engaging atmosphere for anime enthusiasts.
• Guided tours are available in English, Japanese, and Chinese, with knowledgeable guides to answer participants’ questions and provide interpretation support during the shopping experience.
• The tour is priced at $98.69 per person, with a flexible cancellation policy allowing full refunds up to 7 days in advance, making it accessible for solo travelers and groups.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The tour of the Animate Ikebukuro Main Store, certified by the Guinness World Records as the largest anime shop/store in the world, is priced at $98.69 per person and lasts for 2 hours.

Participants can cancel up to 7 days in advance for a full refund. A private group option is available.

The tour is offered in English, Japanese, and Chinese.

The massive store covers 8,554.673 square meters and features a vast selection of character goods, manga, Blu-rays, games, an event space, and a theater with 208 seats.

Guides provide an introduction and answer questions during the tour.

Animate Ikebukuro Main Store

Certified by the Guinness World Records on March 1, 2024, as the largest anime shop/store in the world, the Animate Ikebukuro Main Store covers an impressive 8,554.673 square meters.

This vast space houses an unparalleled selection of character goods, manga, Blu-rays, and games. Visitors can explore the store’s many floors, including the Space Galleria event space on the 8th floor and the Animate Theater on the 2nd basement floor, which seats 208 people.

Anime enthusiasts can engage with the local community and receive interpretation support during their shopping experience.

Store Highlights

Stepping into the Animate Ikebukuro Main Store, visitors are immediately struck by the sheer scale and scope of the world’s largest anime shop. Spanning an impressive 8,554.673 square meters, this certified Guinness World Record holder boasts an unparalleled selection of character goods, manga, Blu-rays, and games.

Feature	Description
Space Galleria	An event space on the 8th floor
Animate Theater	A 208-seat theater on the 2nd basement floor
Character Goods	Vast array of merchandise for beloved anime and manga characters
Manga and Blu-rays	Extensive collection of the latest and classic titles

Anime enthusiasts can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and engage with the local community.

Guided Tour Services

While exploring the Animate Ikebukuro Main Store, participants can take advantage of the guided tour services offered.

The tour guides provide:

• A comprehensive introduction and guided tour of each store floor, ensuring visitors don’t miss any key highlights.
• Knowledgeable answers to participants’ questions during the tour, enhancing their understanding of the store’s offerings.
• Interpretation support during shopping and payment, making the experience seamless for non-Japanese speakers.

These guided tour services cater to the diverse needs of visitors, creating an enriching and informative experience at the world’s largest anime shop.

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Itinerary Details

The tour starts at Ikebukuro Station, where participants need only a short 5-minute transfer to reach the Animate Ikebukuro main store.

The 2-hour itinerary focuses on a guided tour and shopping. Visitors will explore the expansive 8,554.673 square meter store, certified as the world’s largest anime shop.

The tour includes an introduction to each floor and assistance with questions, shopping, and payment.

While the itinerary is subject to change, the core experience remains the same – immersing oneself in the vast selection of anime goods, manga, Blu-rays, and games, as well as the store’s unique event spaces and theater.

Meeting Information

Participants will meet at 1-chome Minamiikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo 171-0022, where they should look for the guide holding a sign that says "【Get your guide】".

The meeting point was carefully selected to provide:

• Convenient access to the Animate Ikebukuro main store, just a short 5-minute transfer.
• Clear visual cues for participants to easily identify the guide.
• A central location that’s easily accessible for both local and international visitors.

Participants are advised to check the availability for their desired date and group size prior to the tour.

Booking and Cancellation

How can one book the tour and what’re the cancellation terms?

Booking this tour is simple. Guests can reserve their spot online through the tour provider’s website or mobile app. The price is $98.69 per person. There’s also an option for private group bookings.

Regarding cancellations, travelers can receive a full refund if they cancel up to 7 days in advance. This flexible policy allows guests to plan their trip with peace of mind.

Whether solo or in a group, visitors can easily secure their spot on this immersive tour of the world’s largest anime and manga store.

Explore the World of Anime and Manga

What awaits visitors as they step into the world’s largest anime and manga store? Rows upon rows of vibrant character goods, manga volumes, and the latest Blu-ray releases.

The Animate Ikebukuro Main Store is a true mecca for anime enthusiasts, certified by the Guinness World Records as the largest of its kind. Spanning an impressive 8,554.673 square meters, the store offers:

• A vast selection of merchandise catering to every anime fan’s desire
• The Space Galleria event space and the Animate Theater on the premises
• Opportunities to engage with the local anime community

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Allowed Inside the Store?

Photography is allowed inside the Animate Ikebukuro store, but visitors should be mindful of others and avoid using flashes or disrupting the shopping experience. Store policy may have additional guidelines for photography.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Guests are generally not permitted to bring their own food and drinks into the Animate Ikebukuro main store. The store has its own food and beverage offerings for visitors to enjoy during their shopping experience.

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There’s no strict dress code for the tour. Casual, comfortable attire is recommended, as you will be walking around the store and engaging with the exhibits. However, visitors should dress respectfully to explore the anime-themed retail space.

Can I Purchase Items During the Tour?

Yes, participants can purchase items during the tour. The guided tour includes interpretation support during shopping and payment, allowing visitors to explore the vast selection of anime goods, manga, and more at the Animate Ikebukuro main store.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions. It’s open to participants of all ages who are interested in exploring the vast selection of anime and manga merchandise at the Animate Ikebukuro store.

The Sum Up

The Animate Ikebukuro Main Store offers an unparalleled experience for anime and manga enthusiasts. With its vast collection of character goods, manga, and Blu-rays, as well as unique event spaces like the Space Galleria and Animate Theater, this guided tour provides an immersive glimpse into the vibrant world of Japanese pop culture. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or new to the genre, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: