Getting Lost (In the Best Way) at Village Vanguard

Visiting Japan for the first time, I’ve discovered some pretty cool places—but none quite like Village Vanguard. If someone told me it was just a bookstore, I probably wouldn’t have gone. But let me tell you: this is no ordinary bookstore. In fact, calling it a “bookstore” is kind of hilarious once you step inside.

I went with my Japanese friend, who was on a mission to find her favourite manga from when she was a kid. She did find it (some retro 80s series I’d never heard of), and then completely disappeared into a reading trance. That gave me the perfect chance to explore the shop on my own—and wow, there was so much to see.

Sure, they sell books and manga, but Village Vanguard is more like a chaotic, colourful wonderland packed with everything you didn’t know you needed. I saw shelves of plush toys, quirky mugs, stickers, keychains, T-shirts, tote bags, notebooks, and more—all featuring characters I recognised from around the world. Totoro, Moomin, Tom and Jerry, SpongeBob, One Piece, Minecraft… you name it, they probably have it.

Personally, I’m a huge Star Wars fan, and there was an entire section of Star Wars stuff—figures, mugs, socks, posters, even lightsaber chopsticks. I might have freaked out just a little.

The best part is that the store is kind of like a treasure hunt. It’s packed from floor to ceiling, and every time you turn a corner, there’s something new and completely random waiting for you—like bacon-scented soap or a book of weird Japanese inventions. You could easily spend hours in there without getting bored. I almost forgot I was supposed to meet my friend again at the front.

If you ever visit Japan and want to experience a store that’s fun, surprising, and totally different from anything back home, Village Vanguard is a must. Just make sure you leave extra time… because once you go in, you won’t want to come out anytime soon.