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If you know the struggle of scouring the internet for anime merch only to be heartbroken as you discover that the perfect replica of Ichigo’s Hollow mask is only available overseas, or that the shipping costs of an Akatsuki phone cover alone cost an arm and a leg, then this one is wholeheartedly dedicated to you.

With the general popularity of Asian pop culture steadily rising in Cape Town and the number of Japanese anime shows popping up on Netflix reaching peak levels, more and more anime merch – be it online or in-store – are becoming available right here in the Mother City.

But sometimes, it’s still difficult to find.

So here are seven Cape Town-based anime merch stores for all your weeb-y desires:

Engrave Slave

From the humble beginnings of trying to create the perfect hand-engraved gift for their father, Engrave Slave has undoubtedly become a pioneer in the anime merch scene in Cape Town. Last year they hosted anime-inspired tea ceremonies where anime lovers and cosplay enthusiasts could gather for an invigorating cup of their favourite anime character’s personali-tea.

Since their opening, they’ve been popping up all over the place, participating in all kinds of Asian-themed events. Best believe if there’s an anime movie showing in cinemas, Engrave Slave will be right outside the theatre doors selling all kinds of anime merch we didn’t even know we needed.

And of course, their ranges don’t stop after all things anime. They offer engraved mugs, homeware, apparel, accessories and more in various themes such as Marvel, Disney, Harry Potter and even Korean-inspired.

Hoodie Syndicate

Everything from Naruto to One Piece and Attack on Titan too, Hoodie Syndicate delivers quality Anime hoodies every single time.

And for any non-weebs, while they initially started as an anime-inspired clothing and merchandise store they offer a variety of custom options along with their very own line of Hoodie Syndicate embroidery merch.

Car lovers, what do you think about having a 100% custom-embroidered hoodie showcasing your beloved ride?

La Lunary

La Lunary is founded by a fellow local sister so in love with Japanese culture and anime that it’s become an extension of herself. So she decided to bring the world of anime right here to Cape Town to offer weebs and non-weebs alike the trendiest styles, from design to concept and straight to our doorsteps – within as little as a week’s time.

With extensive collections ranging from sweatpants to accessories, wigs and full on cosplay outfits. La Lunary is your one-stop online shop for anything anime.

And if you have your own anime-inspired ideas in mind, La Lunary will happily bring your vision to life. All you need to provide is the design and size and let them work their magic for you.

Playtech

Whether you’re a gamer, tech-head, cosplayer, anime-lover or all of the above, Stellenbosch’s Playtech could perhaps become your new paradise away from the screen – well, perhaps still on the screen if you’re scrolling through their online store.

Arguably the widest collection of anime and cartoon-themed merchandise can be found all under one roof. From PC controllers, Pikachu pillows, to Goku’s entire outfit – monkey tail included.

 

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Davison Design

If concept and anime-inspired is more your style rather than replicas and figurines, Davison Design is a streetwear brand that focuses on customising clothes, bags and shoes through hand painting and printing.

Turn your Nike Air Force 1’s or beloved denim jacket into a personalised anime-inspired work of art.

 

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Tenketsu

For something truly unique, check out Tenketsu’s 3D shifting stickers.

If not for yourself, it’s possibly one of the coolest little additions to add to any anime-inspired gift for all weebs.

Add it a wall, a computer, a phone or even a car window and you’ll have every anime lover in Cape Town bending backwards to catch another glimpse.

 

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21 Thug City

For the anime lovers looking for a little bit more of a subtle look. This Instagram-based store sells the cutest anime-inspired jewellery and accessories that’ll give you just the right touch of weeb-iness.

 

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P.S. for any sweet tooth out there, they bake too. But you can send them a Direct Message for more details on that.

Also read:

K-dramas you need to add to your must-watch list!

Picture: Unsplash

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