Archie MontroseFor any true otaku, getting first dibs on anime merchandise is not just a thrill—it’s a way of life. It’s more than just collecting stuff; it’s a way to immerse yourself deeper into your favorite shows and connect with fellow fans.
In this article, we’ll take you through Vancouver’s vibrant anime scene, highlighting the best stores where you can find everything your heart desires.
This guide will take you on a shopping adventure, from hidden gems to popular hotspots, ensuring you find the perfect additions to your collection. So, grab your wallet and explore the city’s best spots for anime merchandise.
1. Golden Age Collectables
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Website: http://www.gacvan.com/
Address: 852 Granville St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1K3, Canada
Contact details: +16046832819
Operating hours: 11 AM–6 PM
Golden Age Collectables offers an impressive anime merchandise collection, from rare figurines and collectible cards to exclusive apparel and home decor. The store stands out for its unparalleled selection and dedication to catering to a diverse fanbase.
Golden Age Collectables fosters a strong sense of community by hosting events, meet-ups, and signings with industry guests. The store’s commitment to carrying new and vintage items makes it a haven for collectors of all ages and interests.
Pro tip:
Allow yourself ample time to browse and appreciate the vast collection. Don’t be afraid to ask the staff for recommendations or to share your favorite anime.
2. Sakura Media
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Website: http://metrohobbies.ca/
Address: 4700 Kingsway, Burnaby, BC V5H 4N2, Canada
Contact details: +16044198824
Operating hours: 10 AM–9 PM
Sakura Media is a popular anime and manga store with a wide range of merchandise, including anime DVDs, Blu-rays, manga, and collectible figures. The store’s knowledgeable staff is always ready to offer recommendations to customers.
Sakura Media is known for its active engagement with the local anime community. It hosts events such as anime screenings, cosplay contests, and artist signings to unite fans and celebrate their love for anime and manga.
Pro tip:
If you’re looking for rare or limited-edition items, check Sakura Media’s website or social media pages for updates on new arrivals. The store often receives exclusive merchandise that can be difficult to find elsewhere.
3. Magic Box Hobbies
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Website: https://www.facebook.com/magicboxhobbies/
Address: 2105 W 37th Ave, Vancouver, BC V6M 1N9, Canada
Contact details: +16042641746
Operating hours: 11 AM–5 PM
Magic Box Hobbies in Vancouver is a must-visit for anime and pop culture enthusiasts. The store provides an immersive experience with its extensive selection of meticulously displayed figures, collectibles, and memorabilia for fans of all interests.
What sets Magic Box Hobbies apart is its knowledgeable and passionate staff, who offer valuable insights to collectors and casual fans. The store also hosts events, fostering community among anime enthusiasts.
Pro tip:
Arrive early, especially on weekends, to avoid the crowds and have a more leisurely shopping experience. Take your time browsing the store, and don’t be afraid to ask the staff for recommendations.
4. Half Moon Bookstore
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Website: http://animanga.me/
Address: 8171 Main St, Vancouver, BC V5X 3L2, Canada
Contact details: +16043019075
Operating hours: 12–6 PM
Half Moon Bookstore offers a wide range of rare and hard-to-find items, creating a special appeal for seasoned collectors and newcomers. The store’s cozy atmosphere and extensive collection make it easy to spend hours browsing.
Half Moon Bookstore fosters a strong sense of community by hosting events such as manga release parties and artist signings, providing enthusiasts with opportunities to connect and share their passion, and welcoming fans of all levels of anime expertise.
Pro tip:
To make the most of your visit, arrive early on weekends or during the week to avoid crowds and have ample time to explore the store’s vast collection. Take your time browsing the shelves, and don’t be afraid to ask the staff for recommendations.
5. Dilly Dally
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Website: http://www.dillydallykids.ca/
Address: 1161 Commercial Dr, Vancouver, BC V5L 3X3, Canada
Contact details: +16042529727
Operating hours: 10 AM–6 PM
Dilly Dally stands out for its curated selection, which includes items from both mainstream and niche series, and its knowledgeable staff, who make the shopping experience enjoyable.
Dilly Dally serves as a community hub for anime lovers by hosting events and fostering a sense of camaraderie among fans. The shop’s vibrant interior design and collection of limited edition and exclusive items also make it a destination for anime enthusiasts.
Pro tip:
If you’re a serious collector, it’s worth checking Dilly Dally’s website or contacting the store directly to inquire about pre-orders for highly anticipated items. This way, you can secure your copy before they sell out.
6. Gacha Gacha Hobbies & Toys
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Website: https://gacha-hobbies.myshopify.com/
Address: Hazelbridge Way, Richmond, BC V6X 4J7, Canada
Contact details: +16042788822
Operating hours: 11 AM–7 PM
Gacha Gacha Hobbies & Toys offers a diverse selection of anime and manga merchandise. The store’s well-organized shelves make it easy to navigate, and it showcases popular series such as One Piece, Naruto, Demon Slayer, and Attack on Titan.
The gachapon section is a highlight, offering the excitement of discovering surprise figures from the numerous capsule machines. The store prides itself on its friendly and knowledgeable staff, creating a welcoming environment for anime enthusiasts.
Pro tip:
Indulge in the gachapon experience! It’s a fun and affordable way to add to your collection and find rare items.
7. Toyka Collectibles
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Website: http://www.toytards.com/
Address: 3700 No. 3 Rd #2330, Richmond, BC V6X 3X2, Canada
Contact details: +16043656065
Operating hours: 11 AM–6 PM
Toyka Collectibles offers a diverse and impressive collection of merchandise, catering to casual fans and die-hard collectors alike. The store stands out for its curated selection, featuring collectibles from popular titles, lesser-known series, and cult classics.
The store fosters a welcoming and inclusive community by hosting events, meet-ups, and workshops. It’s become a hub for anime enthusiasts to gather and celebrate their shared love for the genre.
Pro tip:
If you’re looking for a specific out-of-stock item, don’t hesitate to ask the staff about potential restocks or pre-orders. Toyka Collectibles often has access to limited edition and hard-to-find merchandise.
8. The Granville Island Toy Company
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Website: http://www.toycompany.com/
Address: 3298 Main St, Vancouver, BC V5V 3M5, Canada
Contact details: +16048750065
Operating hours: 10 AM–6 PM
The Granville Island Toy Company offers an extensive collection of toys, games, and collectibles. The store’s anime merchandise section is particularly impressive, featuring a curated selection of high-quality items catering to the most discerning otaku.
What sets the Granville Island Toy Company apart is its commitment to offering authentic, well-made, and representative anime products, catering to classic and current series.
Pro tip:
To maximize your shopping experience, consider visiting the store on a weekday when it’s less crowded. This will allow you to explore the anime section without feeling rushed and give you ample time to appreciate the unique items on display.
9. Lucky’s Comics
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Website: http://www.luckys.ca/
Address: 3128 Main St, Vancouver, BC V5T 3G7, Canada
Contact details: +16048759858
Operating hours: 12–6 PM
Lucky’s Comics is a beloved store that has been a cornerstone of the local pop culture scene for over two decades. It offers an extensive collection of anime merchandise, from action figures and plushies to rare collectibles and limited-edition items.
Lucky’s fosters a strong sense of community among anime fans by regularly hosting events, signings, and workshops. This creates a vibrant space for like-minded individuals to connect and share their enthusiasm.
Pro tip:
Arrive early on release days for highly anticipated anime merchandise to increase your chances of snagging limited edition items. Take the time to explore the entire store, as you never know what hidden gems you might discover.
10. Ame Toy & Gift Store
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Website: http://www.ametoycorp.com/
Address: 4416 W 10th Ave #101, Vancouver, BC V6R 2H9, Canada
Contact details: +16042240431
Operating hours: 11 AM–5:30 PM
Ame Toy & Gift Store in Vancouver is a paradise for anime fans. It offers a wide range of merchandise and collectibles that cater to diverse interests. The impressive selection includes rare and hard-to-find items.
What sets Ame Toy & Gift Store apart is its commitment to carrying merchandise from mainstream and niche anime series, ensuring that fans with varying tastes can find something they love.
Pro tip:
To maximize your shopping experience, check the store’s social media pages or website for updates on new arrivals and restocks. This way, you can plan your visit accordingly and increase your chances of finding that elusive item.
