If your kids love anime, video games, or cute characters, Fukuoka is a shopping paradise. Unlike Tokyo where shops can be spread far apart, Fukuoka’s best character spots are concentrated in just a few convenient areas—mostly Hakata Station, Canal City, and the new LaLaport.
Whether you are hunting for a specific plush toy, limited-edition Gundam models, or just want to soak up the “kawaii” (cute) culture, this guide covers the best spots to visit. Most of these shops are indoor, making them perfect stops if you need a break from the weather or a reward after a day of sightseeing.
For a broader look at what to do in the city, check out our complete guide to Fukuoka with Kids: Family Activities (Indoor, Outdoor & Seasonal). But if you are ready to shop, here is where to go.
Hakata Station Area: Pokemon & Nintendo
Hakata Station is more than just a transit hub; it is a major character shopping destination. Because everything is connected to the station buildings (AMU Plaza, Hakata Marui, and Hankyu), you can visit these shops easily without even walking outside.
If you are planning to do a lot of shopping here, staying nearby is very convenient. See our guide on Best Areas to Stay in Fukuoka with Kids: Hakata vs Tenjin vs Momochi to decide if this area suits your family.
Pokemon Center Fukuoka (Hakata Marui 2F)
A must-visit for any trainer. The Pokemon Center in Fukuoka moved to a larger location in Hakata Marui (2nd floor) in mid-2025. It offers a massive selection of plushies, trading cards, and Fukuoka-exclusive merchandise (look for Pikachu wearing local festival gear!).
- Tip: It can get very crowded on weekends. Visit on a weekday morning if possible to avoid long checkout lines.
Nintendo Fukuoka (AMU Plaza Hakata)
Opened recently in late 2025, this is the first official Nintendo store in Kyushu. Located right in the AMU Plaza Hakata building, it features statues of Mario, Link, and Splatoon characters that make for great photo ops. You can buy exclusive merchandise from Super Mario, The Legend of Zelda, Animal Crossing, and Pikmin that you can’t find in regular toy stores.
Sanrio (Hakata Hankyu 7F)
For Hello Kitty, Cinnamoroll, and Kuromi fans, there is a dedicated Sanrio shop on the 7th floor of the Hakata Hankyu department store (also connected to the station). It’s smaller than the one at Canal City but very convenient for picking up quick souvenirs.
Canal City Hakata: The Character Hub
If you want to hit multiple character shops in one go, Canal City Hakata is the best place in Kyushu. It is an open-air mall, but the shops are indoors, making it a great option if you are looking for Rainy Day Fun in Fukuoka: Top Indoor Activities for Families with Kids.
Kirby Café & Store (B1F)
One of the most popular spots in Fukuoka. The Kirby Café serves adorable dishes themed around the pink hero (like Kirby-shaped burgers and Waddle Dee rice items).
- Important: The café requires reservations made weeks in advance. However, the Kirby Store next door is open to everyone and sells exclusive kitchenware and plushies.
Donguri Kyowakoku (Studio Ghibli Store) (B1F)
Step into the world of Totoro and Kiki’s Delivery Service. This shop is beautifully decorated with a wooden, forest-like atmosphere. They sell high-quality towels, puzzles, and finger puppets that make excellent, lightweight souvenirs.
Sanrio Gallery (B1F)
This is one of the largest Sanrio shops in the region. It features a wider range of items than the station store, including a “pop-corn machine” that plays the famous Hello Kitty song—a nostalgic hit for many parents!
The Jump Shop (B1F)
For older kids and teens who love One Piece, Naruto, Demon Slayer, or Jujutsu Kaisen, this official Shonen Jump store is essential. They stock manga, t-shirts, and collectibles.
LaLaport Fukuoka: Gundam & Crafts
Located a short bus or train ride from Hakata, LaLaport Fukuoka is a newer mall that has quickly become a pilgrimage site for mecha fans.
Gundam Park Fukuoka (4F) & The Giant Statue
The main attraction here is the life-sized RX-93ff ν Gundam statue standing outside the mall—it is the tallest Gundam statue in history. Inside on the 4th floor, you will find Gundam Side-F, a shop dedicated to the franchise. It sells limited-edition “Gunpla” (plastic models) that you can only buy here.
- Note: If you are spending the day at LaLaport, you might also want to read A Family Guide to KidZania Fukuoka: Career Fun at LaLaport, which is located in the same building.
Anpanman Children’s Museum (Riverain Mall)
For toddlers and preschoolers (ages 1–5), Anpanman is the ultimate hero. The Fukuoka Anpanman Children’s Museum is located on the 5th and 6th floors of the Hakata Riverain Mall (connected to Nakasu-Kawabata subway station).
Unlike some other locations, the main shops here are generally inside the ticketed museum area.
- What to buy: You can find Anpanman bakery items (fresh bread with character faces), DIY craft kits, and toys that are safe for babies.
- Entry Fee: Tickets are around ¥2,000–¥2,200 per person (from age 1), so it is an investment, but worth it for the live shows and exclusive shopping experience for young fans.
Practical Tips for Character Shopping
- Tax-Free Shopping: Most of these shops (Pokemon Center, Nintendo, shops in Canal City and LaLaport) offer tax-free shopping for tourists if you spend over ¥5,500. Don’t forget your physical passport!
- Gacha Gacha (Capsule Toys): If you are on a budget, look for “Gashapon” (capsule toy) specialty stores. There is a huge one in Canal City and another in Hakata Bus Terminal. You can find high-quality keychains of almost any character for ¥300–¥500.
- Crowds: The Nintendo Store and Pokemon Center can be extremely busy on weekends and holidays. Try to visit on a weekday morning or late evening (around 7:00 PM) for a calmer experience.