After 31 Years, HobbyLink Japan Finally Opens Its First Retail Store
HobbyLink Japan has officially opened its first-ever physical retail store, giving hobby fans a new destination to explore exclusive products, in-store events and interactive shopping experiences in Tokyo’s Ikebukuro district.
Also known by fans as HLJ, HobbyLink Japan is one of the world’s largest online hobby retailers, supplying Gunpla, model kits, figures and collectibles to customers around the globe for more than two decades.
HobbyLink Japan opened as online overseas mail order business in 1995, with founder Scott T. Hards offering fans the opportunity to order Japanese model kits that were, at the time, incredibly difficult to get hold of internationally.
Named HobbyQuest, the new store has been designed around the theme of a “treasure hunt,” encouraging visitors to discover unexpected products while browsing a wide range of model kits, figures, character merchandise and hobby supplies.
HobbyQuest will carry a broad selection of plastic model kits, figures, character merchandise and hobby accessories, with HLJ aiming to create a welcoming destination for both newcomers and experienced collectors alike.
One of the biggest attractions is the store-exclusive PG UNLEASHED ν Gundam Complete Set, giving Gunpla collectors the chance to pick up a product that cannot currently be purchased through HLJ’s online storefront.
Unlike the company’s online store, HobbyQuest gives customers the opportunity to see products in person before buying, while also introducing experiences that are exclusive to the physical location.
Visitors can also take part in the “Luck Test Quest” promotion, where the discount applied to selected products is determined by the roll of a dice, adding an extra element of chance to every purchase.
The “Treasure Wagon” offers discounted items with minor cosmetic packaging damage, giving collectors the opportunity to pick up hobby products at reduced prices while stock lasts.
HLJ has also launched an in-store social media campaign centered around its original Godzilla products, encouraging visitors to share their experience after visiting the new location.
A digital gashapon vending machine has been installed inside the store, with the first lineup featuring officially licensed CAPCOM products that will rotate with future promotions and seasonal campaigns.
The HobbyQuest store is located on the first floor of the Shimizu Building at 2-58-9 Ikebukuro, Toshima City, Tokyo, and is open every Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
HobbyQuest officially opened on July 25, 2026, marking the first time HobbyLink Japan has expanded from its online retail business into a permanent physical store.
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