Where to Buy Doujinshi in Tokyo (Now that Toranana is Closed)
So, on Twitter last week, @onigiridorkkk, better known as Onigiri, asked me where the best place to buy doujinshi is, and I have the answer.
Before covid, it was Toranana. However, they have closed both their stores in both Ikebukero and Akihabara. If you’re buying doujinshi online, you should still shop on their online store though! That’s where I buy all my stuff online, and all my favourite creators publish through them!
But let’s say you’re in Tokyo, and you want to find the good shit. Well, it’s at K-Books Doujinkan in Ikebukero.
Why is this the best place?
1. There selection is huge.
Most places either cater to men or to women. It’s a weird thing we do in the industry. I write “for women” which doesn’t really mean anything in particular besides that there are themes, relationship dynamics and overall a writing and art style that trends have suggested is more popular with women. I’ll make a post about the differences in “for men” and “for women’s” doujinshi in the future
Regardless, the Doujinshi in this K-Books store are mostly “for women”, however there are some “for men” titles too.
2. Is is so easy to navigate, even if you don’t know a word of Japanese.
So in many stores, you will have to read the name of the fandom and/or the name of the ship/characters you’re looking for in Japanese to navigate the selection. But not at this K Books.
Looking for Jujistu Kaisen? Just look for the big picture of Gojo above the bookshelf, you’ll find him there. Or maybe you’re looking for a particular ship. Well, look on the shelves and see sections bookmarked with images or your fave pairing. They make it too easy!
3. Location is great.
I think the location is great for a number of reasons. First of all, I think Ikebukero is the place to be if you’re looking for doujinshi, hands down. You’ve probably heard a lot of talk about Akihabara. Some saying that it’s THE place to be if you’re looking for the otaku experience, others say that it died in the 90s. I disagree with both sentiments, I still think Akihabara is a must see and is still great, but yes, the otakus of Tokyo have in fact moved on the bigger and better.
Aside from that, the store is also above Swallowtail Cafe, which is a butler cafe. You may have heard of the maid cafes they have in Akihabara, and you may want to try it out, or maybe you don’t like the idea of it. I can’t say they’ve exactly gained the best reputation. If you want a similar experience, you can find it here!
Overall, shopping at K-Books Doujinkan in Ikebukero is pleasant. It’s easy to navigate, they have a great selection, the aisles are wide and you don’t have to climb over people to look on the shelves, which is a plus.
That’s it from me! But that’s my recommendation! Enjoy!
