Quick Summary:
- Akihabara has the largest concentration of Pokémon card shops in Japan
- Foreigners can freely buy cards, but selling rules vary by store
- Prices differ widely, so visiting multiple shops is the key to good deals
Akihabara is the undisputed capital of Pokémon cards in Japan.
Whether you are a collector hunting for rare PSA-graded cards, a casual fan opening booster packs, or a traveler wondering if foreigners can sell cards in Japan, Akihabara offers more options than anywhere else in the country.
This guide explains where to buy Pokémon cards in Akihabara, where to sell them, what prices to expect, and what first-time visitors should know.
If you’re planning a Pokémon card shopping trip in Tokyo, this article will answer everything you need before you go.
Why Akihabara Is the Best Place for Pokémon Cards
Akihabara stands out from other areas of Tokyo for several reasons:
- Dozens of card shops within walking distance
- A strong secondhand market with constantly changing inventory
- Shops ranging from beginner-friendly to high-end collector stores
- Easy access for tourists staying in central Tokyo
Unlike online marketplaces, Akihabara allows you to see card condition in person, compare prices across shops, and find unexpected deals simply by walking a few blocks.
Quick Answer: Can Foreigners Buy or Sell Pokémon Cards in Akihabara?
Buying Pokémon Cards
Yes. Anyone can buy Pokémon cards in Akihabara.
No ID or residency is required, and most shops welcome foreign customers.
- Cash is widely accepted
- Credit cards are accepted at many major shops
- Staff may speak limited English, but buying is generally easy
Selling Pokémon Cards
Yes, but with conditions.
- Some shops require a passport
- Some shops only buy from Japanese residents
- Payment is usually cash
- Acceptance varies by store and card value
If selling is your goal, expect to visit multiple shops to find the best option.
Best Pokémon Card Shops in Akihabara (By Purpose)
Best Shops for Buying Pokémon Cards
These shops are ideal for purchasing singles, sealed products, or browsing large inventories:
- Card Rush Akihabara
One of the most famous Pokémon card shops in Akihabara. Excellent access, strong inventory, and highly competitive buyback prices. Be prepared for long lines, especially on weekends and during new releases. - Dragon Star Akihabara
Very easy to access and well known for hot deals and discounted cards. Buyback is handled at a separate dedicated purchase-only location, making the selling process smoother and faster. - Hareruya 2 Akihabara
A Pokémon-focused card shop with an outstanding selection ranging from the latest releases to high-end collector items. Widely regarded as a must-visit store for Pokémon card fans in Akihabara. - magi Akihabara
The go-to shop for high-value and graded Pokémon cards. Strict quality control and clear card condition rankings make this store especially popular with serious collectors. - Amenity Dream Akihabara
Often one of the cheapest options when paying in cash, thanks to point rewards. Pokémon card stock is not very large, but pricing can be excellent depending on timing. - Fukufuku TCG (福福トレカ)
A specialty shop focusing on older and high-priced collector cards. Ideal for those searching for rare vintage Pokémon cards rather than modern packs. - Cardival Akihabara
Features a large play space and massive storage boxes. A great place to dig through bulk cards—you might find unexpected hidden gems. - Spiral Akihabara (すぱいらる)
A small shop, but surprisingly strong Pokémon card inventory. Also known for finding good deals on sleeves, deck cases, and other card supplies.
👉 Each shop has different pricing strategies, so visiting multiple stores is strongly recommended.
Best Shops for Selling Pokémon Cards
Selling Pokémon cards in Akihabara is possible for foreign visitors, but the experience varies greatly by shop.
Based on real-world observations, the following stores are commonly used for selling cards and each has its own strengths and trade-offs.
- Card Rush Akihabara
Card Rush is one of the busiest buyback locations in Akihabara.
Even on weekdays, buyback lines can become extremely long, and it is not uncommon to see foreign customers waiting to sell cards.
One of the biggest advantages of Card Rush is that card condition checks are relatively forgiving.
As long as there are no obvious major damages, many cards are often bought at full listed prices. This makes it a solid choice for sellers who want fair evaluations without overly strict grading. - Hareruya 2 Akihabara
Hareruya 2 is a Pokémon card–specialized shop and accepts cards and supplies from almost every era of the game.
Some cards are occasionally bought at higher prices compared to other shops.
However, due to its popularity, waiting in line for buyback is common, especially during peak hours. Patience is often required, but the potential payout can be worth it. - Dragon Star
Dragon Star operates dedicated buyback-only locations, which allows for a smoother and more organized selling process.
However, web member registration is required before selling.
Foreign visitors may need to use browser translation tools to complete the registration process, as the website is primarily in Japanese.
Once registered, the buyback process itself is generally efficient. - magi Akihabara
magi Akihabara specializes in high-value cards and card supplies.
The shop is usually not crowded, which allows for relatively quick buyback transactions.
That said, condition checks are strict, and even small scratches or wear can significantly affect the offer price. This shop is best suited for sellers with well-preserved or graded cards. - Fukufuku TCG (福福トレカ)
Fukufuku TCG deals in older and vintage Pokémon cards and is often open to purchasing high-value items.
The store is typically not crowded, making the selling process calm and straightforward.
It can be a good option for sellers who want to avoid long lines, especially when selling rare or older-era cards.
Expect price differences between shops. Selling to more than one store often results in better offers.
Best Shops for Rare or High-End Pokémon Cards
For collectors looking for PSA, vintage, or tournament-level cards:
- Displays with graded slabs
- Higher-end pricing but clearer condition standards
- Safer for expensive transactions
These shops often focus on authenticity and condition over bulk purchasing.
Pokémon Card Prices in Akihabara: What to Expect
Prices in Akihabara vary widely depending on demand, condition, and timing.
- New booster packs: Similar to retail prices across Japan
- Single cards: Prices can differ significantly between shops
- High-end cards: Often competitive with online marketplaces
Prices in Akihabara vary widely depending on demand, condition, and timing.
- Common singles: ¥10–¥500
- Popular SR / SAR cards: ¥1,000–¥10,000
- PSA-graded or vintage cards: ¥30,000 and up
Because inventory changes daily, Akihabara rewards comparison shopping. Two shops next to each other may price the same card very differently.
Tips for Buying Pokémon Cards in Japan (First-Time Visitors)
- Bring cash, especially for smaller shops
- Photography inside stores is often restricted
- Tax-free purchases are usually not available for trading cards
- Opening booster packs in-store may or may not be allowed
- Always check card condition carefully before purchase
Staff are generally helpful, even with limited English, and pointing at display cases works surprisingly well.
Tips for Selling Pokémon Cards as a Foreigner
- Sort cards by rarity and condition in advance
- Know approximate Japanese card names if possible
- Be prepared for lower offers on bulk cards
- Visit multiple shops for price comparison
Selling high-value cards is easier than selling large quantities of low-value cards.
Map: Pokémon Card Shops in Akihabara
Most Pokémon card shops are located within walking distance of:
- JR Akihabara Station
- Electric Town Exit
The area is compact, making it easy to visit several shops in one afternoon.
(Google Maps embed recommended here)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Akihabara cheaper than buying Pokémon cards online?
Sometimes. Prices vary by shop and timing, but rare finds can be cheaper in person.
Can tourists sell Pokémon cards in Japan?
Yes, but acceptance depends on the shop. Some require residency or specific ID.
Are Pokémon cards cheaper in Japan than overseas?
Japanese retail prices are often lower, but popular cards may be similarly priced worldwide.
Can I use a credit card?
Many shops accept cards, but cash is still preferred.
What is the best time to visit card shops?
Weekday afternoons are less crowded than weekends.
Conclusion: Is Akihabara Worth It for Pokémon Card Fans?
Absolutely.
Akihabara offers one of the richest Pokémon card shopping experiences in the world. Whether you’re buying your first pack, hunting for rare cards, or exploring Japan’s trading card culture, this area delivers variety, accessibility, and excitement.
For deeper dives into individual shops, prices, and events, check our detailed guides linked throughout this article.
