Looking for a good second hand store in Akhibara to spend for anime lovers.

Looking for a good second hand store in Akihabara to spend for anime lovers

If you’re an anime fan heading to Akihabara, you’re in for a treat—but honestly, the sheer number of shops can be overwhelming. Akihabara isn’t just one big anime store; it’s a whole district packed with specialized shops, each focusing on a narrow category of goods. That means before you dive in, it really helps to have a clearer idea of what you want. Are you after manga volumes, figures, trading cards, cosplay items, or rare collectibles? Once you narrow that down, your hunt becomes much easier.

From my experience living here and exploring Akihabara’s secondhand scene, two places stand out as solid starting points for anime enthusiasts: Lashinbang Akihabara New Store and Suruga-ya Akihabara Shop Anime Hobby Pavilion. Both have a great selection of used anime goods, reasonably priced, and you can spend hours browsing without feeling rushed.

Here’s a bit more about these stores and some tips on how Japanese people actually shop for secondhand anime items:

Lashinbang Akihabara New Store
This shop is a favorite among locals who want quality used figures, accessories, and cosplay goods. Japanese shoppers often visit Lashinbang to find items in good condition without paying full retail price. Prices vary widely depending on rarity and condition, but expect figures around ¥2,000 to ¥10,000 ($14–$70 USD). What’s nice is their clear organization by series and category, which helps avoid the sensory overload Akihabara can sometimes have.

Suruga-ya Akihabara Shop Anime Hobby Pavilion
Suruga-ya is almost like a department store for secondhand anime stuff. From manga to trading cards and model kits, they’ve got it all. Japanese buyers appreciate Suruga-ya for its vast inventory and reliable grading system — everything is rated to indicate how used or pristine it is. Prices are competitive; for example, a used manga volume might go for ¥300–¥500 ($2–$4 USD), while rare figures could be several thousand yen. Suruga-ya also has an online presence, but locals love coming to the shop to physically inspect items before buying.

How Japanese People Shop for Used Anime Goods in Akihabara
Many Japanese collectors are quite picky — they often check boxes for damage, look at paint quality, and sometimes even sniff the item for any odors (yes, really!). Secondhand doesn’t mean sloppy here; it’s about finding items that still feel “loved” but well cared for. Weekend mornings tend to be busier, with collectors hunting for fresh stock or sales. Also, some stores have loyalty cards or seasonal discounts, which locals use to get better deals.

“What if I’m mainly interested in rare or limited edition anime figures? Where should I go?”
For rare figures, I’d recommend starting with Lashinbang since they often stock limited editions and pre-owned high-end collectibles. Another hidden gem is Mandarake Akihabara, which specializes in rare and vintage anime goods. Prices can be steep depending on rarity, sometimes ¥20,000+ ($140+ USD), but you might find treasures you won’t see elsewhere.

“How about buying manga or anime DVDs secondhand? Are there any stores focused on those?”
Suruga-ya’s Anime Hobby Pavilion is great for manga and DVDs, but also check out Book Off Akihabara. Book Off is a well-known chain with a large selection of used books, manga, CDs, and DVDs at reasonable prices. Manga volumes typically go for about ¥100–¥300 ($1–$3 USD). Japanese people often buy used manga to catch up on series or build their collections affordably.

“Any tips for avoiding fake or low-quality products when shopping secondhand in Akihabara?”
Stick with established shops like Lashinbang, Suruga-ya, or Mandarake. These stores authenticate and grade items carefully. Japanese buyers tend to be cautious and will inspect products thoroughly before purchase. If you’re unsure, ask the staff — many can communicate in basic English and will help you avoid counterfeit items.

“Are there any cultural customs around shopping secondhand in Japan I should know?”
Unlike some countries, Japanese shoppers generally don’t bargain. Prices are fixed, but some shops have seasonal sales or loyalty points. Also, it’s polite to handle items carefully and avoid taking photos without permission, especially inside smaller shops. Many locals treat these stores like treasure troves, so keeping things respectful helps everyone enjoy the experience.

“Is it easy to bring large anime figures or collectibles home from Japan?”
Big figures can be tricky due to size and fragility. Japanese people often use protective packaging and sometimes bring their own bubble wrap or boxes. Some shops offer shipping services domestically and internationally, though international shipping costs can add up. If you want to bring them on the plane, pack carefully in your checked luggage to avoid damage.

Akihabara’s secondhand anime scene is a real window into how Japanese fans enjoy their hobbies—careful collectors hunting through specialized shops, balancing passion with practicality. Even if you’re just browsing, watching how locals interact with their favorite items gives a glimpse of the deep respect and enthusiasm anime culture inspires here. And if you do decide to buy, those gently used treasures carry a story that brand-new items just can’t match.