Immerse yourself in the captivating world of anime culture! Derived from a thought-provoking essay by Akio Nakamori in Manga Burikko back in 1983, the term “otaku” encompasses a deep passion for anime, manga, video games, and technology.
The widespread popularity of anime has paved the way for a multitude of adaptations that extend beyond animated series. From live-action films to video games, music, and a diverse range of merchandise, the influence of anime knows no bounds. True anime enthusiasts find joy in collecting intricately detailed figures of their beloved characters and proudly incorporating anime-themed apparel and accessories into their personal fashion statements.
In the bustling streets of Singapore, you’ll find an abundance of stores offering a treasure trove of anime merchandise. To make your search easier, we’ve curated a list of must-visit destinations that cater to all your anime needs. Whether you’re seeking the latest releases or nostalgic classics, these stores are sure to satisfy your cravings for the finest anime collectibles.
Let the allure of Singapore’s anime scene captivate you as you discover these six hidden gems.
#1: OTAKU HOUSE
Otaku House is one of the novelties stores that anime fans and enthusiasts in Singapore frequently visit. With three Otaku House branches across the city-state, you can shop for cosplay costumes and accessories, Japanese novelty items, and anime memorabilia in Bugis Junction, Suntec City, and Plaza Singapura.
Founded in 2006, Otaku House started as a small pushcart kiosk at Orchard Cineleisure. This anime store in Singapore is one of the first shops to supply ready-to-wear cosplay clothes for cosplayers in the city-state. They began their business at a time when cosplay outfits were not quite as popular as they are now.
Image Credits: facebook.com/otakuhouse
Aside from cosplay costumes, other exciting items you can score from Otaku House are action figures, jigsaw puzzles, posters, stationery, phone cases, shirts, pillows, plushies, and Lego-inspired bricks.
Location: Otaku House, 3 Temasek Blvd, #02-475
#2: LA TENDO
La Tendo is an anime and games retail store in Singapore that specializes in almost all types of Japanese-inspired collectibles like toys, books, accessories, apparel, and the like.
La Tendo’s toy figures come in a set of pre-painted statues, are very easy to assemble, and contain removable parts to customize the look of the character. They also sell fashion dolls in various shapes and sizes, complete with clothes, body parts, and accessories, so you can create your own style and add some personal touches.
Image Credits: facebook.com/Latendo
Aside from plushies and figures, the shop also has calendars featuring your favorite anime series such as Jujutsu Kaisen, Black Clover, and Demon Slayer. For fans of “Genshin Impact,” you should check out their collection of character badges, smartphone stands, plush charms, and keychains.
Location: La Tendo, 3 Temasek Blvd, #03-354
#3: PIKKU PLAY
Pikku Play is a small home-based business that has partnered with some of the leading anime distributors including Good Smile Company, Ichiban Kuji, Gachapon, Furyu Corporation, MegaHouse, and Medialink.
It offers affordable yet quality toys for customers who love to collect anime merchandise as their hobby. Just like other anime stores, it sells action figures, trading cards, convertible deck boxes, candy toys, and more in-stock items.
Image Credits: facebook.com/Pikkuplay
Location: Pikku Play, 1 Sophia Road (Peace Centre) #01-30
#4: SEIMON-CHO
Founded in 2007, Seimon-Cho is known for selling authentic Sanrio characters from Japan like Hello Kitty, Gudetama, My Melody, and Rilakkuma, among others.
Aside from their kawaii items, this shop in Singapore also has anime merchandise featuring famous characters from Demon Slayer, Pokemon, One Piece, Studio Ghibli, and more. Other gift items you can find at Seimon-Cho are stationery, towels, bags, kitchenware, figures, and socks.
Image Credits: facebook.com/Seimon.Cho
Seimon-Cho can be found in the IMM Building and Plaza Singapura.
Location: Seimon-Cho, 68 Orchard Rd, #03-03 Plaza Singapura
#5: SIMPLY TOYS
Simply Toys is the official distributor of Funko and Q posket, which creates movie thematic toys, statues, and collectibles.
Simply Toys brings Dragon Ball, Cardcaptor Sakura, Naruto, Demon Slayer, and more Q posket anime characters to its fans.
Image Credits: facebook.com/SimplyToys
Location: 1 HarbourFront Walk, #02-32/33, Singapore 098585
#6: KINOKUNIYA SINGAPORE
If you’re a book lover in Singapore, then you’ve probably heard of Kinokuniya – the one-stop shop for all your reading needs. But did you know that they also have a massive collection of manga?
Image Credits: facebook.com/KinokuniyaSingaporeWeb
That’s right! Nestled in the heart of Ngee Ann City lies a manga paradise, with shelves upon shelves of manga titles in both English and Japanese. From the action-packed adventures of Naruto and One Piece to lesser-known gems, Kinokuniya has it all.
Location: 391 Orchard Road 04 – 20 / 20A / 20B / 20C / 21 Takashimaya S.C., Ngee Ann City, Singapore 238872