How to Buy Cheap Figures in Japan: The Ultimate Guide

Introduction: Cheap Figures in Japan

Japan is a haven for anime figure collectors, offering figures at prices far lower than most places worldwide. For those in Japan, it’s the perfect opportunity to find affordable and rare figures.

Physical stores often beat online prices, especially for overseas buyers, who face higher shipping fees and import taxes. Japan’s secondhand stores, known for their high-quality pre-owned items, make it even easier to save. In addition to our anime figure pricing guide, this article will show you how to get the best deals while in Japan.

One store that stands out for incredible deals and a wide selection is BOOKOFF. Let’s explore why it’s the ultimate destination for collectors.

BOOKOFF: The Best Place for Cheap Figures

BOOKOFF Store Logo

If you’re looking for affordable anime figures, BOOKOFF is the perfect destination. This secondhand store chain offers a wide range of figures at prices often half of their original retail value, or even less.

Though the items are pre-owned, the quality is exceptional. Many figures look brand new, with some even including their original packaging. Shopping in-store also lets you inspect figures directly, ensuring you’re happy with the condition before buying—something online shopping can’t offer.

BOOKOFF is also a great place to find rare figures at bargain prices. Whether you’re looking for a hidden gem or just a great deal, BOOKOFF makes figure collecting more affordable.

Next, let’s explore the layout and organization of a BOOKOFF store to help you prepare for your visit.

Cheap Figures: Price Comparisons

Kimetsu No Yaiba, Shinobu Figure for 6.000 JPY

Price evolution with average price of 13.500 JPY

Here’s an example to show just how affordable figures can be at BOOKOFF. A popular Kimetsu No Yaiba Shinobu Figure, which averages around 13.500 JPY on MyFigureList.com, was spotted at BOOKOFF for just 6.000 JPY. That’s less than half the price—and the figure was in excellent condition, complete with its original box.

Ai Hoshino Figure for 13.000 JPY

Ai Hoshino current price of 19.500 JPY

Another great find was a Ai Hoshino figure, that has just been released and listed for 19.500 JPY online. At BOOKOFF, the same figure was priced at 13,000 JPY—again, in nearly perfect condition. So it's also possible to also find very recent figures. Deals like these make BOOKOFF a go-to spot for collectors looking to expand their collection affordably.

In the next section, we’ll take a closer look at what the inside of a BOOKOFF store looks like and how its layout makes shopping a breeze.

Inside BookOff: What to Expect

An aisle of One Figures in BOOKOFF

Walking into a BOOKOFF store, you’ll immediately notice how well-organized it is, making it easy to browse and find what you’re looking for. Figures are typically grouped by genre or series, with dedicated sections for popular franchises like One Piece, Demon Slayer, and Bishoujo figures.

Shelves are neatly arranged, often displaying figures with their boxes for easy inspection. This layout allows you to quickly spot your favorite characters and assess the condition of each figure before purchasing. Some stores even have glass display cases for higher-value or rare figures, giving collectors a chance to see standout pieces up close.

In addition to figures, you’ll find sections for related merchandise, including art books, DVDs, and games, all organized for easy navigation. The clear categorization and thoughtful presentation make shopping at BOOKOFF an enjoyable experience for both seasoned collectors and casual fans.

Next, we’ll dive into the low-price range figures that can be found at BOOKOFF, starting from as little as 500 JPY.

Affordable Figures: 500–1500 JPY Deals

Shounen One Piece Section

BOOKOFF is a haven for collectors looking for low-price figures, with options starting as low as 500 JPY and often ranging between 500 and 1,500 JPY. These prices make it easy to grow your collection without overspending.

For fans of shounen anime, BOOKOFF frequently dedicates sections to popular franchises like One Piece. Shelves are filled with iconic characters from the series, all neatly organized and affordably priced.

Shounen Kimetsu No Yaiba Section

If you love Demon Slayer, you’ll find a variety of characters like Tanjiro, Nezuko, and Zenitsu, all available at unbeatable prices. The selection often includes both standard and limited-edition figures, making it a great spot to find a deal on your favorites.

Bishoujo Anime Figures section

Another Bishoujo Anime Figures section

Fans of bishoujo figures will also find plenty to admire. BOOKOFF typically features a section dedicated to beautifully designed female characters from a wide range of anime series, giving collectors a chance to snag high-quality figures for less.

Whether you’re looking for your favorite characters or exploring new series, BOOKOFF’s low-price range ensures something for every collector at a price point that’s hard to beat.

Where to Find a BookOff Store

BOOKOFF stores are located throughout Japan, making them easily accessible no matter where you are. You can find them in major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, as well as in smaller towns and countryside areas. The chain’s widespread presence ensures there’s likely a store near you.

To locate a BOOKOFF, simply use Google Maps or visit the official BOOKOFF website, where you can search for stores by region. Many are conveniently located near train stations or shopping centers, making them easy to include in your itinerary.

It’s worth noting that not all BOOKOFF locations are the same. Some stores specialize in books and DVDs, while others feature extensive collections of anime figures and related merchandise. Look for larger stores or those labeled “Hobby OFF”, a subsidiary of BOOKOFF that focuses specifically on collectibles and hobby items.

Exploring different locations can also lead to great discoveries. Smaller stores in rural areas often have better deals and less competition, giving you a better chance to find rare figures at lower prices.

BookOff Prices: Location Matters

Not all BOOKOFF locations are created equal, and the price differences between stores can be significant. For collectors looking to maximize their savings, it’s important to know which BOOKOFF to visit.

Stores in major cities like Tokyo often have a higher volume of items, but they also tend to attract more collectors and tourists. This can drive prices up, especially in popular areas like Akihabara, where the demand for anime merchandise is high. If you’re in Tokyo, you might find better deals in neighborhoods away from the tourist hotspots.

On the other hand, BOOKOFF stores in smaller towns or rural areas usually have lower prices due to less competition and lower demand. These locations can be goldmines for finding rare and affordable figures. For example, a figure that costs 6,000 JPY in Tokyo might be priced at just 3,500 JPY in a countryside store.

It’s worth exploring a few different locations to compare prices and inventory. If you’re traveling, take advantage of the opportunity to visit stores outside major urban areas—you might be surprised by the treasures you can find at a fraction of the cost.

Beyond Figures: Other BookOff Finds

Retro Gaming Section

BOOKOFF is more than just a destination for anime figures—it’s a one-stop shop for a wide range of merchandise. Whether you’re a fan of anime, video games, or general pop culture, there’s plenty to discover.

You’ll find manga and light novels neatly organized by series and genre, often at prices far lower than retail. For gamers, BOOKOFF offers pre-owned video games and consoles, with options ranging from classic systems to the latest releases.

Collectors will appreciate the variety of anime merchandise, including art books, posters, DVDs, and Blu-rays. Many items are rare or out of print, making BOOKOFF a treasure trove for those seeking unique additions to their collection.

Games Section (Nintendo Switch)

In addition to anime-related goods, BOOKOFF stores also carry general books, CDs, and even household items in some locations. If you’re visiting a larger BOOKOFF or a Hobby OFF branch, you’re likely to find an even greater selection tailored to collectors.

With its diverse offerings, BOOKOFF is a must-visit for any fan of Japanese pop culture, whether you’re looking for figures or something completely different.

Conclusion: Why Visit BookOff

BOOKOFF offers a unique opportunity for anime figure collectors to find affordable, high-quality items in Japan. With its widespread locations, excellent organization, and unbeatable prices, it’s no wonder BOOKOFF has become a go-to destination for fans.

Whether you’re hunting for rare figures, building your collection on a budget, or exploring related anime and gaming merchandise, BOOKOFF has something for everyone. By venturing beyond the big cities and exploring smaller stores, you can uncover even more incredible deals. To track your collection or discover what’s available on the market, explore all figures on MyFigureList here.

If you’re in Japan, don’t miss the chance to visit BOOKOFF and take advantage of everything it has to offer. Happy collecting!

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