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March 2024 by Sonia T.
Step into the enchanting world of Kinokuniya bookstore, nestled within the bustling Japan Center mall at Japantown, San Francisco. From the moment you enter, you're greeted by a vibrant atmosphere that's as inviting as it is exciting. The first floor is a paradise for anime and manga enthusiasts, boasting an extensive collection of Japanese and English manga, art books, and anime merchandise. And don't miss the illustration by the renowned Japanese artist, Katsuya Terada, adorning the entrance. It's a testament to the store's commitment to celebrating Japanese culture and artistry, with a touch of magic added by Terada's live painting during his visit in 2013. Venturing up to the second floor, you'll discover a haven for book lovers of all kinds. Here, you'll find a diverse selection of general English and Japanese books, magazines, and gift items. Whether you're searching for a new novel to lose yourself in, a magazine to spark your curiosity, or the perfect gift for a loved one, Kinokuniya has you covered. What truly sets this bookstore apart is the variety of offerings from Japan. From literature to lifestyle, stationery to snacks, there's something to captivate every interest and taste. I often find myself getting lost in the aisles, marveling at the array of titles and treasures waiting to be discovered. But it's not just the impressive selection that keeps me coming back--it's the staff. Knowledgeable and friendly, they are always willing to offer a recommendation or answer any questions you may have. Whether you're a devoted manga fan, a curious reader, or simply seeking a slice of Japanese charm, make sure to pay a visit to this delightful bookstore. You won't be disappointed!
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March 2024 by Bibi N.
If you're looking for mangas and anime merchandise this is the place to go. They really did had everything from the most popular anime shows such as Naruto, Sailor Moon and Dragon Ball to Berzerk, Another One and The Promised Neverland. If you need any help finding the one special thing you can ask the staff members they're very knowledgeable, however be prepared to spend more than a pretty penny. The merchandise is definitely worth it.
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January 2024 by J L
This is truly an institution in japantown. The wonderful things you can find at this bookstore is not just books, nor the little gifts, calendars, or other knickknacks. The best thing about this place is the atmosphere and the visual things you find in every little corner. I think the best thing is the front window displays that changes regularly and seems to draw the most amount of visitors to come inside and explore. Once inside you will find a variable smorgasbord of Japanese cultural offerings and lots of unique reading materials and gifts straight from the land of the rising sun. I can guarantee that you will find at least a couple things that you would want to take home with you. It's very interesting looking through the books and magazine aisle and seeing how different Japanese culture is to American culture.When coming here plan to come early as it gets really crowded with visitors, tourists, and locals. Plan to also spend quite a bit of money as some of these books costs a lot to get imported here. My daughter bought an anime illustrative book and it cost a whopping $50+.
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January 2024 by Ben Gregory
Lots and lots of Japanese books and magazines, but I come for the front area where they have dozens of items related to Japanese movies, anime, and other cool items. Always worth a visit.
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January 2024 by Cecilia M.
This is an incredible 2-storey bookstore in Japantown mall. Be prepared to spend hours here perusing their large selection of English and Japanese publications. The ground floor is dedicated to anime and manga offering not just printed materials, but also collectibles and accessories. All the manga are wrapped in plastic to protect the books. The staff are very knowledgeable and helpful. They KNOW their stuff. On the top floor are books of all genres and wide range of magazines from around the world. They also have a huge selection of plushies including Pusheen, Samezu, Gudetama and Hello Kitty. There's a corner for all things Studio Ghibli. AND also an aisle of different types of puzzles and models. There's really something for everyone in this store!
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January 2024 by Akemi Y.
I love to read books! Kinokuniya is very conveniently close to my home, and service is super good! This is the only bookstore sells Japanese books near my house. I don't know what I should do without Kinokuniya. But nowdays I noticed less Japanese books there and more dolls and things. I hope you never disappear from my eye sight! Like other book store! Thank you for your services!! Akemi
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January 2024 by Jenn Z
Cool place to see many Japanese books, cute little things. Too bad I don’t understand much about Japanese culture to appreciate the goods sold there.
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December 2023 by Kathy L.
Manga fans (both English & Japanese language), this is the place to go. They have another location in the South Bay, and having been to both, the South Bay selection is definitely more limited. This store is a 2 floor bookstore, but all the manga is on the lower level, entirely manga related with a walled section for character based charms, plushies, notepads and other non-book related items. There is a good selection in both languages and many of the same series are available in both languages (other stores carry predominately English versions). I noticed however, that the English versions cost more than the Japanese versions. The staff is helpful if you are looking for something specific and if you are purchasing Japanese versions, they make sure you are aware at check out you are purchasing Japanese versions. This is definitely your place to go for manga.
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December 2023 by M C.
One of my favorite bookstores in San Francisco! Lots of Asian/Asian American titles. Fantastic art books about Asian art. Language materials for Chinese, Japanese and Korean language learners. Love their Japanese fashion magazines. And a very tempting selection of stationery!
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November 2023 by Aigerim Zholdospayeva
cool bookstore. There are manga in English and Japanese. I have never seen such a quantity before. everything is divided into genres. on the second floor there are books by Japanese writers. you can find various figures and merchandise from anime.
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November 2023 by Evelyn E.
Second time I visited and actually looked around, they had so many cute things! I wasn't expecting so many kirby options, definitely took some things home this time and the lady who checked me out was very kind
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November 2023 by Darren D.
stumbled across this bookstore for the first time and I just thought it looked sooo cute! Found some gems I've always been wanting to read so I'm satisfied I'll definitely be coming for a visit again when I'm in San Fran
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November 2023 by Raymond G.
This place is a local gem since forever. The staff are very nice. I highly recommend this place for books, media and small gifts. Unlike that Japan video and media store that's in the same plaza, this place will not yell at your children or price gouge you.
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September 2023 by Dayanara Manorek
It was my first time at the Kinokuniya here in SF yesterday and it was amazing! They have a lot of selections of books and I love how they included both English and Japanese books and magazines. The staff there are very nice and signing up for the membership they offer was very smooth and easy as well!
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September 2023 by Shawn Cook
I love this Tokyo institution here Japantown, San Francisco ! Whenever I need a Japan dose, and that’s often, Kinokuniya fits the bill perfectly. So much culture, wide, diverse selection of books, magazines and gifts. I always learn more and leave looking forward to my next visit. Arigato !
