Comics 212 has put together a wonderful comparison between the hardcore Otaku stores of Tokyo, the Tokyo fashion district and the New People store which recently opened in San Francisco.
Shopping in Otaku stores in Tokyo is like getting lost in the most disorganized comic shop on the planet – it’s all about finding treasure in a dark corner.
Regardless of who you are – it’s a decidedly nerdy endeavor – the dark stair cases and chaotic shelves will put off all but the most dedicated of Otaku.
Contrast that with New People. A clean, crisp and open space. The Apple Store of comic shops.
Hopefully this will bring new people to the wonderful nerdings of Japan, and needless to say, a trip to SF suddenly went up on the priority list.