All things "Sailor Moon" can finally be found in one place. The anime recently celebrated its 25th anniversary. Alongside the celebration, the world's first permanent store for "Sailor Moon" merchandise has opened in Tokyo's popular fashion hub, Harajuku district.
The "Sailor Moon" shop can be found in the Laforet building and sells a myriad of goods ranging from key chains and smartphone cases to coloring books, clothes and accessories.
Speaking to the Japan Times, a spokesperson for Toei Animation Co., the animation company that distributes "Sailor Moon" and also manages the mortar-and-brick store, said that they also have several merchandise lined up to be sold exclusively at the store.
The permanent store will be the first of its kind, though there are other "Sailor Moon" pop-up stores in the area and around Japan.
"'Sailor Moon' received a boost when the animated TV series marked its 20th anniversary in 2012, and new goods have been added to the lineup since then. Because more goods have been released since the 20th anniversary many fans were requesting a permanent store," the spokeswoman added.
Almost 200 people lined up along Meiji Dori Avenue for the store's grand opening. One of the fans waiting outside said she has loved "Sailor Moon" ever since she was young and felt lucky to be standing outside the store. Other fans expressed how having a permanent store is a big deal for them as it was difficult to find "Sailor Moon" merchandise outside of Japan.
"Sailor Moon" is manga series illustrated and written by Naoko Takeuchi. It follows the life of teenager Usagi Tsukino as she transforms into the title character in search of a magical artifact called the Legendary Silver Crystal. It was adapted into anime and produced by Toei Animation. The manga and anime series has garnered positive reviews and has become one of the most popular titles worldwide.
