Japanese Hobby Stores Directory

Hobby Store Directory

Please Note:

This only an overview of what's around at the time of my research.
Businesses open and close, so please do your due diligence before relying on anything that is stated in these lists!
Contact the businesses to confirm opening hours etc as many tend to open late to stay open late

NB: Its not the intent of this page to list what each shop sells or specialises in nor is this meant to be an exhaustive or definitive listing of Japanese hobby stores (ha!).

Most of the stores listed here are either (despite their size) general hobby stores who stock a variety of properties or are department stores who have an impressive hobby based section but also sell other items eg Yodabashi and BIC camera.

If you are looking for 'special kits' or 'rare kits', I'd honestly recommend Mandarake or checking out the smaller hobby stores who don't move much stock as the bigger, listed stores! ;)

Tax Free purchases

Tax-free purchases at hobby stores in Japan are available to foreign visitors who are staying temporarily and have a passport from a country other than Japan. In order to take advantage of the tax-free benefit, you need to make a purchase of at least 10,000 yen (including tax) in a single day at a store that is authorised to offer the service.

Once you've made a qualifying purchase, you'll need to present your passport and the goods you purchased to the store staff, who will stamp your passport and issue you a tax-free receipt. You can then bring the receipt to the airport and present it when you go through customs.

It's important to note that there are some restrictions on what you can purchase tax-free. For example, items that are considered to be for everyday use (such as food, drinks, and toiletries) are typically not eligible. Additionally, some stores may have restrictions on the types of items they can offer tax-free.

If you're planning on making a lot of model kit purchases while in Japan, taking advantage of the tax-free benefit can be a great way to save some money. Just be sure to understand the rules and restrictions before making your purchase and to keep your receipts and passport handy so that you can take advantage of the tax-free benefit when you leave the country.

NB: Please check this information before travelling !

Getting your kits home

Please see my suggestions on the 'Things to Consider' page

Akihabara

In addition to the plastic model shops, Akihabara is also known for its many anime and manga-related shops, arcade games and video game shops, electronics retailers, and cosplay-related stores. The area is a hub of Japanese pop culture, so it's a great place to explore if you're interested in this aspect of Japanese culture.

If you're looking for a bite to eat, there are also many restaurants and cafes in the area that cater to fans of anime, manga, and video games. You can find unique and themed restaurants, such as the Macross Cafe, that offer food and drinks inspired by popular franchises.

Overall, Akihabara is a vibrant and exciting neighbourhood that is well worth a visit, whether you're a fan of plastic models and hobbies, or you're just looking to explore and experience the energy of the area.

Let's be honest,
This is probably at the top of your list of places to visit.
And I agree... it is pretty cool!

Be aware that it can be a bit 'samey samey' after a while, as there are many, many hobby shops in Akihabara. I believe, though, there are a handful of good plastic model shops worth mentioning.

Having said that, don't be afraid to explore the smaller stores as you never know what bargains you will find!!

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In no particular order you need to add these stores to your Akiba itinerary.

Yellow Submarine
Address: 4-4-7 Sotokanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 101-0021
Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/wgLz7Cv1fWxpY8Vi9

Description: Yellow Submarine Akihabara is a hobby store that specialises in products related to anime, manga, and video games. They have a wide selection of plastic models, figures, and other collectible items from popular franchises, as well as other hobby-related items such as trading cards and board games.

Yodabashi
Address: 1-1 Kandahanaokacho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 101-0028
Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/v14rVei9TQ2Q1JUg6

Description: Yodobashi Camera Akihabara is a large electronics retailer selling various hobby items, including plastic models, figures, and other collectibles. They have a good selection of plastic models and supplies.

Mandarake Complex Akihabara:
Address: 3-11-12 Sotokanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 101-0021
Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/6vXU6ZsUHjQGcRor7

Description: Mandarake is a large chain of second-hand and vintage stores specialising in manga, anime, and video game-related merchandise. They have a large selection of used and vintage plastic models, figures, other collectible items, and a wide range of other hobby-related items.

Kotobukiya Akihabara Honten:
Address: 1-8-6 Sotokanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 101-0021
Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/rZtHRJ9tkkjv1nWp9

Description: Kotobukiya Akihabara Honten is a specialty store for plastic models and figures, offering many plastic models from popular anime and video game franchises. They also have a wide range of figures and other collectible items.

Tam Tam Hobbies:
Address: 1-2-5 Sotokanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 101-0021
Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/ViWTTAG8tB32

Description: Tam Tam Hobbies is a hobby store that sells a variety of plastic models, figures, and other collectible items. They have a wide range of products from popular anime, manga and video game franchises.

Don Quijote:
3-15-5 Sotokanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 101-0021

Description: Don Quijote is a large discount store that carries various products, including hobby items such as plastic models, action figures, and collectible items. It's a great place to find all sorts of weird and wonderful things!

Jungle Akihabara
Address: 4-3-3 Sotokanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 101-0021, Japan
Google Maps link from Akihabara Station: https://goo.gl/maps/8WZNzPXfjFZrLrvN8

Description: Jungle is a multi-story hobby and toy store located in the heart of Akihabara, Tokyo. It offers a wide range of toys, games, collectibles, and other merchandise, including a large selection of plastic models, action figures, board games, trading cards, and more.
Jungle Akihabara is known for its friendly and knowledgeable staff, who are always happy to assist customers with their purchases and provide recommendations and advice. With a huge selection of products and a welcoming atmosphere, Jungle Akihabara is a great destination for hobby enthusiasts, collectors, and anyone looking for a fun and unique shopping experience in Tokyo.

Other places of interest
K-Books Akihabara: 4-3-2 Sotokanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 101-0021
Melon Books: 4-3-3 Sotokanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 101-0021
Toranoana: 4-3-3 Sotokanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 101-0021
Animate Akihabara: 4-3-2 Sotokanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 101-0021,
Radio Kaikan: 1-15-16 Sotokanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 101-0021
Hobby Station Akihabara Main Store: 4-3-2 Sotokanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 101-0021
Tokyo Plamodel: 4-3-3 Sotokanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 101-0021
Hobby Off: 1-15-17 Sotokanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 101-0021
Kotobukiya Akiba Culture Zone: 4-2-16 Sotokanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 101-0021
A Zone Hobby Shop: 1-8-3 Sotokanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 101-0021,
HOBBY SHOP HOBBYSEARCH AKIBA STORE: 1-15-4 Sotokanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 101-0021
AKIBA Culture ZONE: 4-7-2 Sotokanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 101-0021
G-Fantasy Akihabara: 4-7-1 Sotokanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 101-0021
Hobby Square Akihabara: 4-3-2 Sotokanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 101-0021
Nagatoya Hobby Shop Akihabara: 4-6-1 Sotokanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 101-0021
Yobitsugi Akihabara: 4-3-3 Sotokanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 101-0021
Hobby Paradise Akihabara: 1-15-16 Sotokanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 101-0021

Wider Tokyo

Nakano Broadway is a shopping complex located in Nakano, Tokyo that is known for its many hobby stores and anime merchandise shops.
5-52-15 Nakano, Nakano-ku, Tokyo, 164-0001, Japan

Mandarake Complex is the main store in Nakano Broadway, offering a wide range of products related to anime, manga, and pop culture. They carry a large selection of plastic models, figurines, and other collectibles, as well as books, magazines, and other merchandise related to anime and manga.

Mandarake Fantasy is a store that specializes in products related to the fantasy and science fiction genres. They offer a wide range of products, including plastic models, figurines, and other collectibles, as well as books, magazines, and other merchandise related to fantasy and science fiction.

Mandarake Animation is a store that specializes in products related to animation and cartoon culture. They offer a wide range of products, including plastic models, figurines, and other collectibles, as well as books, magazines, and other merchandise related to animation and cartoons.Here is a breakdown of the stores you can find at Nakano Broadway:

Mandarake Groove is a store that specializes in products related to music, dance, and fashion. They offer a wide range of products, including CDs, DVDs, and other music-related merchandise, as well as clothing and accessories related to dance and fashion.

Mandarake Amusement is a store that specializes in products related to amusement and entertainment. They offer a wide range of products, including toys, games, and other amusement-related merchandise, as well as books, magazines, and other merchandise related to entertainment

Mandarake GEE! is a store that specializes in products related to technology and electronics. They offer a wide range of products, including video games, computer hardware, and other technology-related merchandise, as well as books, magazines, and other merchandise related to electronics and technology.

K-Books Nakano Broadway is a store specializing in books, magazines, and other merchandise related to anime and manga. They offer a wide range of products, including collectible figures, plastic models, and other hobby products.

Softmap Nakano Broadway is a large electronics retailer that also carries a selection of hobby products, including plastic models, tools, and supplies. They offer a wide range of products, including model kits, tools, and supplies, as well as figurines and other collectibles.

Gundam Front Odaiba
Gundam Front Tokyo is a theme park dedicated to the popular Japanese science-fiction franchise, Gundam. It is located in Odaiba, Tokyo and offers a variety of experiences for Gundam fans, including exhibits showcasing the various Gundam models and robots, a museum showcasing the history of the Gundam franchise, and a store selling a wide range of Gundam-themed merchandise.

Address: 1-1-10 Aomi, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-0064, Japan
Google Maps link from Akihabara Station: https://goo.gl/maps/c1LZwgxxZ3qWdKjQ7

Kyoto

Kyoto is a city located in the central region of Japan and is known for its rich cultural heritage, traditional architecture, and beautiful temples and shrines. The city is considered to be a centre of traditional Japanese culture and is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. Despite its historical significance, Kyoto is also home to a thriving modern cityscape with a variety of shopping and entertainment options.

In terms of hobby stores, Kyoto has a diverse range of options for hobbyists and model builders, including hobby stores specialising in plastic model kits, board games, and other hobbies. Some of the more popular hobby stores in Kyoto include Yodobashi Camera, BIC Camera, Hobby Station, and more. Whether you are a seasoned hobbyist or just starting out, you are sure to find the supplies and tools you need to take your hobby to the next level in Kyoto.

My recommendations

Yodobashi Camera Kyoto: This store is located at 602-8577 Kyoto, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto, and offers a wide range of hobby supplies, including plastic models, figures and games

BIC Camera Kyoto: This store is located at 604-8051 Kyoto, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto, and offers a wide range of hobby supplies, including plastic models, figures and games.

Yellow Submarine Kyoto: This store is located at 602-8061 Kyoto, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto, and offers a range of plastic models, figures, and games.

Other places of Interest

Hobby Station Kyoto
This is a multi-story hobby and toy store located in Kyoto that offers a wide range of toys, games, collectibles, and other merchandise, including a large selection of plastic models, action figures, board games, trading cards, and more.
Address: Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture 605-0023, Japan
Google Maps link from Kyoto Station: https://goo.gl/maps/W8xd9ViYgQaLL2q67

Kyoto Model Shop
This store specializes in plastic models, with a wide range of kits and accessories to choose from. They also carry a selection of paints, tools, and other supplies to help you complete your models.
Address: Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture 604-8183, Japan
Google Maps link from Kyoto Station: https://goo.gl/maps/o8J9Lc1LQLL4x4xW8

Studio Ghibli Store Kyoto
This is an official Studio Ghibli store that sells merchandise related to the popular animation studio. They have a wide selection of items, including figures, toys, and other merchandise, many of which are exclusive to this store.
Address: Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture 605-0826, Japan
Google Maps link from Kyoto Station: https://goo.gl/maps/DtNuN7zsKj8NX9cH9

Kyoto Figure Shop
This store specializes in figures, with a wide selection of items to choose from, including plastic models, action figures, and more. They also carry a variety of other merchandise related to anime, manga, and Japanese pop culture.
Address: Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture 604-8034, Japan
Google Maps link from Kyoto Station: https://goo.gl/maps/xgUJjKHg5hYJgZ8c9

HOBBY ONE Kyoto: This store is located at 604-8051 Kyoto, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto, and specializes in plastic models, games, and toys.

Daiki Trading Kyoto: This store is located at 602-8061 Kyoto, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto, and offers a wide selection of plastic models, as well as figures, games, and hobby supplies.

Round One Kyoto: This store is located at 602-8061 Kyoto, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto, and offers a range of plastic models, figures, and games.

NOVA Hobby Shop Kyoto: This store is located at 600-8815 Kyoto, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto, and offers a wide range of hobby supplies, including plastic models, figures, and games.

Kitamura Kyoto: This store is located at 604-8061 Kyoto, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto, and specializes in plastic models, figures, and games.

Pal Cabine Kyoto: This store is located at 600-8815 Kyoto, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto, and offers a range of plastic models, figures, and games.

Osaka

Osaka, like Akihabara, is a hub for hobby enthusiasts and a great destination for model kit enthusiasts. Located in the Kansai region of Japan, Osaka is a bustling city known for its unique blend of traditional culture and modern innovations. With a strong focus on technology and pop culture, Osaka is home to many different hobby stores and shopping centers that cater to a wide range of interests.

One of the most famous shopping destinations in Osaka is Nipponbashi, also known as "Den-Den Town." This neighborhood is a hub for all things tech and pop culture, and is home to numerous hobby stores, electronics shops, and manga cafes. Whether you're looking for the latest in electronics, video games, anime, or model kits, you're sure to find it in Nipponbashi.

For model kit enthusiasts, Osaka is home to a number of well-stocked hobby stores that carry a wide range of kits, from classic models to the latest and greatest releases. Some of the most popular stores include Doutonbori Hobby, Hobby Station Osaka, and Kit Head Osaka. These stores offer a vast selection of kits, paints, hobby tools, and other supplies, and the knowledgeable staff is always on hand to help you find what you're looking for.

Overall, Osaka is a great destination for hobby enthusiasts, and a must-visit for anyone interested in model kits and other related hobbies. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and abundance of hobby stores, Osaka is the perfect place to indulge your passions and discover new ones.

Den-Den Town is a district in Osaka, Japan that is known for its electronics and otaku culture. It is a popular destination for hobbyists and is home to several hobby stores that sell model kits, figures, games, and other related items. Here are a few notable hobby stores in the area:

Hobby Square: This is a large hobby store that carries a wide range of items, including model kits, action figures, trading cards, and more. They offer a great selection and competitive prices, making it a popular destination for hobbyists.
Address: 3-2-12 Nippombashi, Chuo-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka 542-0073, Japan
Google Maps Link: https://goo.gl/maps/YTtLqo3WnEt7yPoF9

K-Books Den Den Town: This store specializes in manga, light novels, and other otaku-related items. They also carry a small selection of model kits, figures, and games.
Address: 1-6-18 Nippombashi, Chuo-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka 542-0073, Japan
Google Maps Link: https://goo.gl/maps/etR8FkfDRBKj1nXy7

Radio Kaikan: This building is home to several small hobby stores that offer a variety of items, including model kits, figures, and trading cards. You can find many rare and hard-to-find items here.
Address: 4-4-9 Nippombashi, Chuo-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka 542-0073, Japan
Google Maps Link: https://goo.gl/maps/SJ9oivx7vnhWdTmT7

Rinkya Store: This store specializes in Japanese pop culture items, including model kits, figures, and trading cards. They offer a great selection and competitive prices.
Address: 1-6-18 Nippombashi, Chuo-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka 542-0073, Japan
Google Maps Link: https://goo.gl/maps/uV7vR4rh1XV7Bzms8

Other places of interest

Yodobashi Camera Osaka Umeda Store
Address: 4-30 Ofukacho, Kita-ku, Osaka 530-0011
Google Maps Link: https://goo.gl/maps/r1vGKjzU6fN2

BIC Camera Osaka Umeda Main Store
Address: 1-11-6 Umeda, Kita-ku, Osaka 530-0001
Google Maps Link: https://goo.gl/maps/aT6Wx17JUvL2

Kitamoto Hobby Shop Osaka Store
Address: 1 Chome-19-1 Edobori, Nishi Ward, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture 550-0002, Japan
Google Maps Link: https://goo.gl/maps/hfZi1UgXSVCLnNzv6
Description: A long-standing model and hobby store that sells plastic models, RC cars, and other hobby goods. They carry a wide range of products from popular brands and have knowledgeable staff to assist customers.

DDD Hobby - A large model and hobby store that offers a vast selection of plastic models, RC cars, trains, and other hobby goods. They also have a cafe where customers can relax and enjoy their purchases.
Address: 1-chōme-7-16 Minamihorie, Nishi Ward, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture 550-0015, Japan
Google Maps Link: https://goo.gl/maps/QPvb7VzTMAxuT7Cp7

Hobby Off - A one-stop shop for all hobby and model enthusiasts. They offer a wide range of plastic models, RC cars, trains, and other hobby goods. They have a friendly and knowledgeable staff who can assist customers with their purchases.
Address: 2-chōme-3-8 Umeda, Kita Ward, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture 530-0001, Japan
Google Maps Link: https://goo.gl/maps/16cWZQNQ2tLc17CQ8

Model House Shiro - A popular model and hobby store that specializes in plastic models, but also sells RC cars, trains, and other hobby goods. They have a knowledgeable staff who can help customers find what they're looking for.
Address: 2-chōme-4-11 Umeda, Kita Ward, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture 530-0001, Japan
Google Maps Link: https://goo.gl/maps/yGB5dVTT5UcHe6Uv7

Hobby Station Umeda - A large model and hobby store that offers a wide range of products, including plastic models, RC cars, trains, and other hobby goods. They have a friendly and knowledgeable staff who can assist customers with their purchases.
Address: 3 Chome-1-2 Umeda, Kita Ward, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture 530-0001, Japan
Google Maps Link: https://goo.gl/maps/TbTnZr9hxmKH16WDA
Hobby Square Osaka
Address: 1-9-9 Nippombashi, Chuo-ku, Osaka 542-0073
Google Maps Link: https://goo.gl/maps/4Mt2JAWtZB42

Orange Hobby Osaka Store
Address: 1-7-15 Nippombashi, Chuo-ku, Osaka 542-0073
Google Maps Link: https://goo.gl/maps/hjKQ2FgLzXq

Craftsman Osaka Store
Address: 3-17-20 Umeda, Kita-ku, Osaka 530-0001
Google Maps Link: https://goo.gl/maps/1Jnpg8xQjKw

Megahouse Osaka Store
Address: 4-15-16 Nishi-Shinsaibashi, Chuo-ku, Osaka 542-0086
Google Maps Link: https://goo.gl/maps/KkUHnJGRX9y

Hasegawa Hobby Shop Osaka Store
Address: 1-6-8 Minamihorie, Nishi-ku, Osaka 550-0015
Google Maps Link: https://goo.gl/maps/zWZ5Jxv7Vqr

Toy's Works Osaka Store
Address: 4-15-17 Nishi-Shinsaibashi, Chuo-ku, Osaka 542-0086
Google Maps Link: https://goo.gl/maps/oR98jKztFJE2

Kurushima Hobby Shop Osaka Store
Address: 4-15-14 Nishi-Shinsaibashi, Chuo-ku, Osaka