14 July, 2025
dragon-ball-opens-first-official-store-in-tokyo-for-40th-anniversary

Toei Animation has announced the opening of the first official **Dragon Ball** store, marking a significant milestone in the franchise’s history. In partnership with **Shueisha** and **Bird Studios**, founded by the creator **Akira Toriyama**, the store will be located in **Tokyo, Japan**, and is set to open this fall. This new retail destination aims to cater exclusively to fans of the iconic series, offering a range of merchandise that has previously only been available through temporary pop-up stores.

The press release regarding the store’s opening provided limited details but confirmed that it will feature exclusive items and limited-time goods, making it a must-visit for enthusiasts of the **Dragon Ball** franchise. The store’s establishment coincides with the celebrations for the series’ **40th anniversary**, which began with the release of its first chapter in **November 1984**. Tragically, Toriyama passed away on **March 1, 2024**, just months before the anniversary, prompting tributes and condolences worldwide, including remarks from leaders in Latin America and France.

In Japan, several popular franchises like **One Piece** and **Pokémon** have dedicated stores, and now **Dragon Ball** joins their ranks. The franchise has maintained a strong international presence, particularly in the United States, where **Dragon Ball Z** became a cornerstone of the anime boom during the late 1990s. Its global fan base is especially vibrant in **Latin America**, where fans frequently gather to watch episodes of **Dragon Ball Super**.

The character **Goku** from the series has become a pop culture phenomenon, recently even appearing in the **Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade** as a balloon, exemplifying the series’ enduring appeal. With **anime** increasingly mainstream in American culture, 2025 is expected to be a landmark year for the medium, with **Dragon Ball** playing a crucial role in its evolution.

Typically, brand-specific stores like the upcoming **Dragon Ball** store remain exclusive to Japan. However, the affiliated companies often distribute products through global pop-up stores, making them accessible to international fans. Alongside the new store’s opening, **Shueisha** is set to release a **Double Cover Box**, which includes all **42 volumes** of the original **Dragon Ball** manga, complete with artwork from some of the most renowned manga authors. This collector’s box aims to celebrate the franchise’s rich legacy and ongoing popularity.

For those eager to learn more about the forthcoming store and its offerings, updates will be available on the **official Dragon Ball website** and across its social media channels. As anticipation builds for this landmark opening, fans worldwide can look forward to a new hub dedicated to celebrating this beloved franchise.