Japan is home to a rich literary tradition, producing everything from bestselling novels to manga and art books that captivate audiences worldwide. For readers outside Japan, accessing these treasures used to be a challenge, but now, many Japanese bookstores offer international shipping, allowing global customers to explore Japan’s literary offerings from the comfort of their homes. Whether you’re interested in Japanese fiction, rare manga editions, or beautifully crafted stationery, these bookstores provide a direct link to the heart of Japanese culture. Here’s a guide to some of the top Japanese bookstores that ship internationally.
Kinokuniya
A Global Bookstore Chain with International Shipping
One of Japan’s most well-known bookstore chains, Kinokuniya, has stores around the world and offers online shopping with international shipping. Known for its wide selection of Japanese literature, manga, and English-translated books, Kinokuniya makes it easy for readers to access books from Japan no matter where they live.
- Wide Selection: Kinokuniya’s online store features a huge range of Japanese novels, manga, art books, stationery, and even Japanese language learning books.
- International Shipping: Kinokuniya offers shipping to various countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and more.
- Specialty Books: Kinokuniya is especially renowned for its collection of manga, graphic novels, and books related to Japanese pop culture. They also offer books in both Japanese and English.
Website: Kinokuniya
Amazon Japan
The Convenience of Amazon with Access to Japanese Titles
For global readers looking to buy books from Japan, Amazon Japan is a go-to option. As part of the global Amazon network, it allows users to purchase Japanese books that might not be available in their local Amazon stores.
- Extensive Collection: Amazon Japan stocks everything from popular novels to manga and Japanese cookbooks, including a variety of niche genres and hard-to-find titles.
- International Shipping: Amazon Japan ships internationally to various countries. However, be aware that some items may not be eligible for international shipping, so checking product eligibility is important.
- Competitive Prices: Since Amazon Japan often offers competitive prices, it is a budget-friendly option for those looking to purchase Japanese literature and manga.
Website: Amazon Japan
CDJapan
Specializing in Japanese Media, Books, and Pop Culture Goods
CDJapan is an online store that caters to international fans of Japanese pop culture, offering a broad selection of manga, anime, J-pop, and books. In addition to their vast collection of Japanese media, CDJapan also carries niche items like art books, novels, and visual novels.
- Comprehensive Catalog: CDJapan offers everything from Japanese novels, manga series (including rare editions), and Japanese language books to specialty art books and cultural literature.
- International Shipping: They ship worldwide, offering reasonably priced shipping options and packaging designed to protect items during transit.
- Exclusive Products: CDJapan often carries limited-edition books, special manga releases, and exclusive art merchandise that may not be available outside of Japan.
Website: CDJapan
JAPAN SHOP
Curated Selection of Japanese Books and Stationery
JAPAN SHOP is another Japanese bookstore that focuses on shipping unique and high-quality Japanese books and stationery to international customers. It provides a curated selection of books, including rare publications, specialty manga, and traditional literature.
- Unique Finds: JAPAN SHOP offers a variety of books ranging from Japanese fiction and non-fiction to art books, manga, and children’s books.
- Global Reach: The store ships internationally, including to the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, and many other countries.
- Traditional Stationery: Apart from books, they also offer beautiful Japanese stationery, including calligraphy sets, notebooks, and other paper products that are perfect for collectors or those interested in Japanese culture.
Website: Japan Shop
Rakuten Books
A Diverse Collection of Japanese Literature
Rakuten Books is part of Rakuten, one of Japan’s largest e-commerce platforms. The bookstore section offers a wide variety of Japanese books, manga, and magazines available for international shipping.
- Manga and Novels: Rakuten has a huge selection of Japanese literature, manga, and graphic novels. For readers interested in Japanese popular culture, this is an ideal place to find rare editions or collector’s items.
- International Shipping: Rakuten Books ships to many countries globally. However, it’s essential to check the shipping policies for your specific location, as some items may have restrictions.
- Competitive Pricing: Similar to Amazon Japan, Rakuten Books offers competitive prices for Japanese books and often runs promotions for international customers.
Website: Rakuten Books
Conclusion
For international readers who crave a deeper connection to Japanese culture, literature, and manga, these Japanese bookstores that offer international shipping are invaluable resources. From global chains like Kinokuniya and Amazon Japan to specialized stores like CDJapan and Mandarake, there’s no shortage of options for purchasing books and other Japanese products from abroad. These bookstores open a gateway to Japan’s rich literary world, making it easy for readers around the globe to enjoy the works of Japanese authors, discover new manga series, and explore unique literary treasures.
