The Anime Figure Collector’s Guide
The anime figure market has experienced tremendous growth in recent years, transforming from a niche hobby into a global phenomenon. High-quality collectibles from manufacturers like Good Smile Company, Kotobukiya, and Bandai now grace the shelves of collectors worldwide, with some rare pieces commanding prices in the thousands of dollars.
As demand has increased, so has the number of retailers catering to figure enthusiasts. However, the market presents unique challenges—from distinguishing authentic products from counterfeit items to navigating international shipping costs and customs regulations.
This comprehensive guide examines the 11 best anime figure shops in 2025, covering both US-based and international options. We’ve evaluated each store based on:
- Authenticity guarantee and product quality
- Selection breadth across different figure types and series
- Pricing compared to market averages
- Pre-order availability for upcoming releases
- Pre-owned options for discontinued items
- International shipping policies and costs
- Customer service quality and return policies
Whether you’re a casual collector or serious enthusiast, this guide will help you find the perfect retailer for your specific needs and location.
1. AmiAmi
AmiAmi stands as Japan’s largest anime merchandise retailer and the go-to destination for figure collectors worldwide. Their extensive inventory spans everything from budget-friendly prize figures to high-end scales and limited editions.
What Makes It Great:
- Massive selection covering virtually every major manufacturer and series
- Comprehensive pre-order system for upcoming releases with no upfront payment
- Extensive pre-owned section with condition ratings and actual product photos
- Competitive pricing often below Japanese retail prices
- Robust shipping options to most countries worldwide
- Points system providing discounts on future purchases
Shipping Highlights:
AmiAmi offers multiple shipping methods to most countries, including DHL, EMS, Air, Surface Parcel, and Surface Mail. Shipping costs are calculated after ordering based on package weight and dimensions. While international shipping isn’t cheap, their competitive product pricing often makes the total still reasonable compared to domestic retailers.
Best For: Both new and experienced collectors seeking the widest possible selection of authentic figures at competitive prices with reliable international shipping.
2. Tokyo Otaku Mode
Tokyo Otaku Mode (TOM) has evolved from a Facebook page into a major player in the global anime merchandise market, with a strong focus on collector-grade figures and exclusive items.
What Makes It Great:
- Premium Shop program offering regular discounts and free shipping thresholds
- TOM Points system providing significant cashback on purchases
- Curated selection focusing on high-quality scale figures and exclusives
- Regular sales events with substantial discounts
- Exclusive TOM variants of popular figures
- English-first customer service catering to international buyers
Shipping Highlights:
TOM ships worldwide from warehouses in Japan and the US. Their Premium Shop membership often includes free shipping promotions on orders over certain thresholds, which can significantly reduce costs for bulk buyers. Standard shipping options include EMS, Air, Surface, and FedEx, with clearly displayed rates during checkout.
Best For: Value-conscious collectors who make regular purchases and can benefit from TOM’s membership program and points system.
3. Solaris Japan
Solaris Japan specializes in both new and pre-owned anime figures, with a reputation for stocking rare and hard-to-find items long after their initial release.
What Makes It Great:
- Extensive back-catalog of older and discontinued figures
- Transparent condition ratings for pre-owned items with detailed photos
- Upfront shipping costs calculated during checkout
- Customs-friendly invoice options potentially reducing import fees
- Search tools specifically designed for figure collectors
- Regular discount campaigns on selected items
Shipping Highlights:
Solaris Japan offers EMS, ePacket, and Surface shipping options to most countries, with costs displayed during checkout. They’re known for their careful packaging and customs-friendly declaration options that may help reduce import duties in some regions.
Best For: Collectors seeking rare, discontinued figures or those who missed initial pre-order windows for popular releases.
4. Good Smile Company
Good Smile Company, the manufacturer behind Nendoroids, figmas, and numerous high-quality scale figures, operates official online shops serving both Japanese and global markets.
What Makes It Great:
- Direct-from-manufacturer authenticity guarantee
- Exclusive bonus parts for figures ordered from their official shop
- Global online store with English support
- Pre-order availability for their entire upcoming lineup
- Pop-up shops at major conventions worldwide
- Regular updates on upcoming releases and product news
Shipping Highlights:
Good Smile operates regional stores for Japan, US, and China, with each serving different territories. Their Global shop ships worldwide via EMS and Surface Mail. While their shipping rates aren’t the lowest, the exclusive bonuses often make ordering directly worthwhile for serious collectors.
Best For: Collectors specifically interested in Nendoroids, figmas, and other Good Smile products who value official exclusives and bonuses.
5. HobbyLink Japan
HobbyLink Japan (HLJ) has served international collectors for over two decades with a vast inventory covering anime figures, model kits, and other Japanese hobby items.
What Makes It Great:
- Private warehouse system allowing order consolidation
- Long-standing reputation for reliability since 1995
- Frequent restocks of popular items
- Diverse inventory beyond just figures (models, toys, books)
- Regular sales on older inventory
- Detailed product information including exact measurements
Shipping Highlights:
HLJ’s private warehouse system is their standout feature, allowing customers to store purchases for up to 60 days and combine multiple orders into a single shipment, potentially saving significantly on shipping costs. They offer all major shipping methods including DHL, EMS, Air, and Surface options.
Best For: Patient collectors who make multiple purchases over time and want to save on shipping through order consolidation.
6. Crunchyroll Store
Crunchyroll Store, connected to the popular anime streaming service, offers a growing selection of figures with a focus on currently airing and popular series.
What Makes It Great:
- Crunchyroll exclusive figures not available elsewhere
- Domestic shipping for US customers
- Connection to streaming platform featuring figures from current shows
- Membership discounts for Crunchyroll subscribers
- Convention presence with exclusive convention items
- Frequent promotions tied to streaming content
Shipping Highlights:
The Crunchyroll Store ships primarily within the United States, with limited international shipping to select countries. They notably do not ship to most Asian countries. For US customers, however, they offer competitive domestic shipping rates and occasional free shipping promotions.
Best For: US-based collectors who already subscribe to Crunchyroll and want convenient domestic shipping for current, popular series.
7. Mandarake
Mandarake is Japan’s largest retailer of second-hand otaku goods, with multiple physical stores across Japan and a comprehensive online shop serving international buyers.
What Makes It Great:
- Unmatched pre-owned selection spanning decades of anime merchandise
- Daily inventory updates with new items
- Competitive pricing on rare and out-of-production items
- Auction system for particularly rare or valuable pieces
- Condition ratings with detailed descriptions
- Individual store inventories searchable separately
Shipping Highlights:
Mandarake ships worldwide using EMS, Air, and Surface Mail options. Their system treats each physical store as a separate entity, meaning orders from different stores require separate shipping payments. For rare items, however, this inconvenience is often worthwhile due to their unmatched inventory.
Best For: Collectors hunting for rare, discontinued, or vintage figures who are willing to navigate a more complex ordering system for unique finds.
8. BigBadToyStore
BigBadToyStore (BBTS) is a major US-based retailer of collectible figures, including a substantial selection of Japanese anime figures alongside other collectibles.
What Makes It Great:
- US-based inventory with domestic shipping
- Pile of Loot system for order consolidation
- Pre-order cancellation flexibility unlike Japanese retailers
- Collector-grade condition guarantee with careful inspection
- No upfront payment for pre-orders until item ships
- Customer service with native English support
Shipping Highlights:
As a US-based retailer, BBTS offers affordable domestic shipping within the United States. Their unique “Pile of Loot” system allows customers to store purchases for up to 90 days and ship multiple items together, saving on shipping costs. They also ship internationally to most countries, though at higher rates than their domestic shipping.
Best For: US collectors who prefer domestic shipping and flexible pre-order policies, as well as those who collect across multiple franchises beyond just anime.
9. Animate
Animate is Japan’s largest retailer of anime, manga, and related merchandise, with over 100 physical stores in Japan and an international online shop.
What Makes It Great:
- Animate-exclusive merchandise not available through other retailers
- Comprehensive selection across all anime-related products
- Early access to new releases in Japan
- Store-specific bonuses with purchases
- Collaboration cafés and events (in physical locations)
- Direct relationships with all major publishers and manufacturers
Shipping Highlights:
Animate’s international online shop ships worldwide via EMS and other postal methods. Their shipping rates are standard for Japanese retailers, though occasionally high due to the weight of their packaged items. The main draw is access to Animate-exclusive items that other retailers simply don’t carry.
Best For: Dedicated collectors seeking exclusive merchandise from specific series, particularly those with Animate-specific collaborations or limited editions.
10. Suruga-ya
Suruga-ya is a major Japanese retailer specializing in second-hand anime merchandise, with an enormous inventory of pre-owned figures at competitive prices.
What Makes It Great:
- Vast pre-owned inventory often including rare items
- Extremely competitive pricing especially for opened figures
- Regular inventory updates with new finds
- Detailed condition descriptions in English
- Bargain section with significant discounts
- Wide variety of figure types and price points
Shipping Highlights:
Suruga-ya ships internationally using EMS, Air Mail, and Surface options. Their website can be more challenging to navigate than some competitors, but they’ve improved their English support significantly in recent years. For budget-conscious collectors willing to purchase pre-owned items, their pricing often makes the extra effort worthwhile.
Best For: Bargain-hunting collectors comfortable with pre-owned figures who are seeking the most competitive prices on the secondary market.
11. ToyShnip
ToyShnip is a US-based online retailer specializing in anime figures and collectibles, with a growing reputation for customer service and authentic products.
What Makes It Great:
- Curated selection focusing on quality over quantity
- Authenticity guarantee with direct sourcing channels
- US-based shipping for domestic customers
- Regular restocks of popular items
- Detailed product photographs beyond manufacturer images
- Responsive customer service with figure expertise
Shipping Highlights:
ToyShnip offers free domestic shipping on US orders over $100, with standard shipping available for smaller orders. They ship internationally to select countries using USPS and other carriers, with rates calculated at checkout based on destination and order value.
Best For: US-based collectors seeking a more curated shopping experience with domestic shipping and personalized customer service.
Comparing Shipping Options for International Collectors
For collectors outside the US and Japan, shipping costs and import fees can significantly impact the total cost of building a figure collection. This comparison highlights typical shipping experiences to various regions worldwide.
| Region | Best Shipping Methods | Typical Transit Time | Import Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| North America | DHL, EMS, USPS | 3-14 days | US: No import fees under $800, Canada: Taxes on all imports + handling |
| Europe | DHL, EMS, Surface | 5-90 days | VAT on all imports, Handling fees from carriers |
| Australia/NZ | EMS, Air Mail, Surface | 7-90 days | GST charged on all imports, Strict customs inspections |
| Southeast Asia | DHL, EMS, Air Mail | 3-21 days | Varies by country, Generally lower thresholds |
| Middle East | DHL, EMS | 5-30 days | High import duties in most countries, Restricted items in some regions |
| South America | EMS, Air Mail | 14-60 days | Very high import duties, Potential customs delays |
Value-Maximizing Strategies for Figure Collectors
Whether you’re a casual fan or serious collector, these strategies can help maximize your budget:
For US-Based Collectors:
- Domestic retailers (BBTS, RightStuf, Crunchyroll Store) offer lower shipping costs but higher base prices
- Pre-order consolidation through BBTS’s Pile of Loot system saves on multiple shipments
- Import under $800 to avoid US customs duties when ordering from Japan
- Convention exclusives are often easier to acquire in-person at major events
For International Collectors:
- Consolidation services like HLJ’s Private Warehouse or proxy services can combine multiple purchases
- Surface shipping offers dramatic savings for non-urgent purchases (2-3 month transit time)
- Strategic timing around Japanese holidays and sales events can yield significant discounts
- Secondary market awareness through Mandarake and Suruga-ya can find rare items at lower prices
- Customs-friendly options from retailers like Solaris Japan may reduce import charges
For All Collectors:
- Pre-orders are essential for high-demand figures that sell out quickly
- Manufacturer promotions often offer the best value (Good Smile online shop exclusives)
- Points systems from AmiAmi and TOM can provide substantial savings over time
- Release delays are common; budget flexibility helps manage multiple pre-orders
Avoiding Counterfeit Figures
The anime figure market has unfortunately seen a rise in counterfeit products, particularly for popular figures from series like Demon Slayer, My Hero Academia, and Jujutsu Kaisen. These counterfeit items typically have significantly lower quality, but can sometimes be difficult to identify from photos alone.
All retailers featured in this guide are verified authentic suppliers. However, collectors should exercise caution when purchasing from:
- Marketplace platforms like Amazon, eBay, or AliExpress where third-party sellers operate
- Unusually low prices far below market rate (particularly for popular figures)
- Retailers without established reputations or verification procedures
- Social media-based sellers without proper business credentials
Authentic figures will typically have proper licensing marks, manufacturer logos, and quality control stickers. When in doubt, comparing product photos to official manufacturer images can help identify potential counterfeits.
Conclusion
The anime figure collecting landscape continues to evolve, with more international shipping options and retailers than ever before. For most collectors, a combination of sources yields the best results—Japanese retailers like AmiAmi and Mandarake for selection and pricing, supplemented by domestic options for convenience and exclusives.
🎌 Anime Figure Shopping Essentials
What's the difference between scale figures, Nendoroids, figmas, and prize figures?
These represent the major categories of anime figures, each with distinct characteristics:
Scale Figures:
- Detailed, non-posable statues made to specific size ratios (1/8, 1/7, 1/4, etc.)
- Highest quality and detail level with prices typically $100-300+
- Focus on accurate character representation and dynamic poses
- Produced by manufacturers like Alter, Good Smile Company, and Max Factory
Nendoroids:
- Chibi-style figures with interchangeable parts and expressions
- Recognizable by their large heads and small bodies
- Typically 10cm tall with prices around $50-70
- Produced exclusively by Good Smile Company
Figmas:
- Fully articulated action figures with multiple points of articulation
- Include interchangeable hands, faces, and accessories
- Typically 12-15cm tall with prices around $60-90
- Primarily produced by Max Factory (under Good Smile Company)
Prize Figures:
- Originally designed as arcade/crane game prizes in Japan
- Lower price point ($20-40) with simpler sculpts and paint
- No articulation or interchangeable parts
- Produced by companies like Banpresto, Taito, and SEGA
The best choice depends on your budget, display space, and whether you prioritize detail (scales), cuteness (Nendoroids), poseability (figmas), or affordability (prize figures).
Why pre-order anime figures instead of buying after release?
Pre-ordering has become essentially mandatory for collectors seeking specific figures due to several industry trends:
Limited Production Runs - Most figures are produced in a single batch based largely on pre-order numbers, with very limited extras.
Rapid Sell-Out - Popular figures often sell out during pre-order phase or immediately upon release.
Secondary Market Premiums - Aftermarket prices typically rise 30-100% or more for desirable figures.
No Deposit Required (for Japanese retailers) - Most Japanese shops like AmiAmi don’t charge until the figure ships.
Price Protection - Pre-order prices are often lower than release prices.
Exclusive Bonuses - Some retailers offer pre-order exclusive parts or accessories.
While pre-ordering requires planning months in advance (typically 6-12 months before release), it’s almost always more economical than waiting. The current production model means that many figures effectively “sell out” before they’re even manufactured.
How do import fees and customs charges work for international collectors?
Import fees vary significantly by country but typically include:
Value-Added Tax (VAT) or Sales Tax:
- EU: 19-27% VAT on total (item + shipping)
- UK: 20% VAT + handling fee
- Canada: 5-15% depending on province
- Australia: 10% GST on items over AUD$1000
Customs Duties:
- Vary by country and product classification
- US: No duties on imports under $800
- EU: Additional duties may apply alongside VAT
- Brazil and other South American countries: Can exceed 60% of item value
Handling Fees:
- Charged by shipping companies for customs clearance
- DHL, FedEx: Typically $10-30
- Postal services: Usually lower fees than couriers
To minimize these costs:
- Some retailers offer “customs-friendly” declarations
- Surface shipping sometimes receives less scrutiny than express shipping
- Knowing your country’s specific import thresholds helps with planning
- Consolidating shipments reduces multiple handling fees
Researching your specific country’s import policies is essential for avoiding unexpected costs on delivery.
What's the best way to display and maintain a figure collection?
Proper display and maintenance preserves both the condition and value of your collection:
Display Options:
- Detolf Glass Cabinets (IKEA): The collector standard, affordable with good visibility
- Dust-proof Display Cases: Higher-end options with better sealing and lighting
- Floating Shelves: Budget option, requires more frequent dusting
- LED Lighting: Enhances visibility without harmful heat
Maintenance Best Practices:
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: UV exposure causes color fading and plastic yellowing
- Control Temperature: Avoid heat sources; extreme heat can cause warping
- Regular Dusting: Use makeup brushes, camera blowers, or canned air
- Handle Minimally: Oils from hands can damage paint over time
- Storage: Keep boxes for valuable figures to maintain resale value
Climate Considerations:
- Humidity Control: High humidity environments may require dehumidifiers to prevent mold
- Air Circulation: Prevents dust settlement and humidity build-up
- Avoid Smoking Areas: Tobacco smoke causes discoloration and odors
With proper care, quality figures can maintain their condition for decades, with many older pieces appreciating significantly in value.
How reliable are figure release dates?
The anime figure industry is notorious for delays:
- Initial Announcements: Typically include tentative release months, not specific dates
- Prototype to Production: Can take 6-12 months after initial announcement
- Delay Frequency: Over 50% of figures experience at least one delay
- Delay Duration: Commonly 1-3 months, but can extend much longer
- COVID Impact: Significantly increased delays across the industry
- Communication: Japanese manufacturers typically announce delays 3-4 weeks before scheduled release
For collectors, this means:
- Budget for unpredictable release timing
- Avoid counting on specific figures arriving for events or gifts
- Understand that multiple pre-orders might ship simultaneously after delays
- Work with retailers with flexible payment plans to manage unexpected timing
Release dates should be treated as estimates rather than guarantees, especially for smaller manufacturers or particularly complex figures.