8 Best Anime Stores in NYC: Ultimate Guide
Whether you’re looking for new figures to add to your collection, a new shirt to wear to your next convention, or just want somewhere cool to hang out with like-minded people — there are plenty of specialist stores to get your fix of Japanese culture in the city.
For anyone who’s into anime, manga, and video games, these stores are a mecca for fans; they’re also great places to pick up gifts for friends and family back home (or yourself!) to show off your love of all things Japanese.
If you’re on the hunt for some new anime merch, here are our top picks for the best anime stores in NYC.
1. Kinokuniya New York
Most people would never expect to find one of the best anime stores in New York hidden away in a nondescript building in the middle of Manhattan – but that’s exactly what Kinokuniya is.
The selection at this store is huge and you can find a lot of rare items here that you might not be able to find anywhere else in NYC.
The first floor looks like an ordinary bookstore, carrying a wide selection of Japanese literature ranging from classic novels to the latest releases.
But if you venture upstairs, you’ll be transported into a world of Japanese merchandise.
With walls lined with shelves upon shelves of manga, Funko Pops, and collectibles, Kinokuniya is a paradise for anime fans.
If you’re tired of browsing through books, head to Cafe Zaiya and refuel with some delicious bubble tea and bento boxes.
So next time you’re in the city, be sure to check out Kinokuniya – you might just be surprised at what you find.
2. Anime Castle
Looking for the best anime stores in New York? Anime Castle, which as the name suggests, is a veritable paradise for fans of Japanese animation and comics.
They’ve got everything you could possibly want, from figurines and toys to novels and manga.
In addition, Anime Castle hosts regular screenings and gaming tournaments, making it the perfect place for anime fans to congregate and enjoy their shared passion.
So if you’re ever in New York City and find yourself in need of a fix of anime goodness, be sure to stop by Anime Castle. You won’t be disappointed!
3. Forbidden Planet
Located just around the block from Strand Bookstore, Forbidden Planet is packed to the gills with all the anime merchandise you could ever want, from iron-on patches and stickers, to blind boxes and highly collectible figurines.
But that’s not all – they also have a great selection of comics and other goodies of Western pop culture.
The best part is, because it’s lined wall-to-wall with so much merchandise, a visit here is like digging for treasure. You never know what you’ll find, but chances are it’ll be something cool.
Next time you’re in the city, make sure to swing by Forbidden Planet and see what treasures you can discover.
4. Midtown Comics Times Square
If you’re an anime fan in New York, then you’re in luck! Midtown Comics is a chain hub of comic stores throughout the US, and their Midtown Comics Times Square location is a must-visit for any anime fan.
You’ll find everything from manga to graphic novels to Bandai & Gundam kits, and they carry both classic volumes and new releases.
In addition to all your favorite titles, they also offer a wide selection of rare and out-of-print editions.
The staff is also incredibly knowledgeable, so you’re sure to find exactly what you’re looking for.
So whether you’re a diehard fan or just getting into the genre, Midtown Comics is sure to have something for you.
5. Book-Off
Book-Off is a used bookstore that’s a treasure trove of anime merchandise, with new items constantly being added to their stock.
And since their stock is based on what they buy from customers, it’s always changing, so you never know what you’ll find on your next visit.
You can find everything from manga and CDs to figures and video games. And if you’re looking to sell your own collection, they’re always buying!
Also, the Book-Off AnimeLab in Brooklyn in all things Japanese, so definitely check it out.
Whether you’re looking to add to your collection or unload some of your old stuff, Book-Off is the place to go.
6. Toy Tokyo
New York City is home to a variety of anime stores, but Toy Tokyo is a clear winner when it comes to selection.
This large store offers figurines, manga, blind boxes, designer toys from Japan, and other anime merchandise at prices that are hard to beat.
And if you’re looking for something truly unique, head to the back of the store where you’ll find a display case filled with rare and collectible items.
7. Montasy Comics NYC
New York may be home to a plethora of anime stores, but Montasy Comics is in a league of its own.
Specializing in comic books and trading cards, you’ll find a wide selection of manga and anime merchandise, including a huge wall of Funko Pops.
This comic book store is also constantly buzzing with activity too, hosting weekly events and tournaments that are open to the community. These events are a great way to meet other fans and get involved in the local community.
Check their website to see when the latest meet-up is!
8. JHU Comic Books
Looking for a place to get your geek on in NYC? Check out JHU Comic Books.
Not only do they stock the latest and greatest comics, but they also host regular events with some of the biggest names in the industry.
Plus, if gaming is more your thing, they’ve got you covered there too. With a deep selection of games including Yu-Gi-Oh!, Pokemon and Magic: The Gathering, JHU is the ultimate destination for gamers in NYC.
