Excitement is brewing among anime, manga, and video game fans, as Japan’s prominent retailer, Animate, is making a much-anticipated comeback in Hong Kong. This news is particularly thrilling for local enthusiasts, who often make trips to Japan, visiting various Animate outlets nationwide to stock up on the latest merchandise.
Animate, on September 12, hinted at its Hong Kong store’s imminent launch through a post on its Facebook page. The message was primarily targeted towards potential employees, inviting them to apply for active positions. The remaining content of the post remained mysteriously brief, only hinting at the store’s impending arrival.
Previously, Animate operated a retail branch in Hong Kong’s Mong Kok, along with an Animate Cafe, known as Youme Cafe. However, both facilities closed their doors in 2020. Five years on, local fans can anticipate the return of Japan’s foremost retailer of anime, manga, and games-related merchandise – again, in Mong Kok. However, the particulars regarding the opening date and precise location are yet to be clarified. In Japan, Animate boasts over 100 retail stores. Globally, the brand maintains several outlets in mainland China, Thailand, Taiwan, and the US. Its flagship store, a nine-story building located in Tokyo’s Ikebukuro district, holds a Guinness World Record for being the ‘largest anime store’ in the world.
With Japanese anime and manga content enjoying immense popularity among Hong Kong’s audience, Animate’s return couldn’t have been better timed. Currently, an Attack on Titan exhibition is being held in Kai Tak, and Demon Slayer: Kimetsu No Yaiba Infinity Castle continues to screen in cinemas. Furthermore, the large-scale Ani-Com & Games Hong Kong event happens every summer. This context sets the stage perfectly for Animate’s return, potentially adding to the excitement of the fans who are already saving up to splurge on the upcoming merchandise.
When is Animate expected to reopen in Hong Kong?
The exact opening date has not been disclosed yet.
Where will the new Animate store be located?
Though the exact location is not confirmed, it is expected to be in Mong Kok, where Animate’s previous store was located.
What does Animate specialize in?
Animate is a leading retailer in Japan, specializing in anime, manga, and video game merchandise.
