As you’ve probably guessed by now, spending money is one of my favorite pastimes when I visit Tokyo – especially when it’s at second hand stores. 

And Mandrake is one of my favorites. 

With several locations scarred around Tokyo, they’re almost like a museum – where you can find almost anything you want, and if take it home with you, if you’re wiling to spend the cash. 

In 2024 I had no plan, I went in blind and just searched.

I spent SO MUCH money.

So, for this trip, arrived with intention — carrying a list in my Notes app of what I wanted. Nothing more. Nothing else. Artbooks, concerts, and a few (small) treasures, and as a result… Mandrake delivered!

First, the Go Yuri Go Settei Shiryoushuu art book from the beautifully fluid, emotionally resonant world of the BL sports anime Yuri on Ice.

It’s one of my favorite series and the art is nothing short of perfect.

Of course, no trip would be complete without indulging in my joy of SixTONES—so several buttons, stickers, and tiny Shintaro-bearing knick-knacks made their way into my basket – all planned.

There were two items I knew I had to find. I found them, tucked behind glass like sacred pieces, the two Travis Japan concerts I had been missing from my collection—IMAGE NATION and True Face 4: Travis Japan Edition. On the phone with one of my besties (and fellow TJ Stan) I almost squeed.

There was only one unplanned purchase. The Joichiro Fujiwara mascot clip from Naniwa Dansi’s whimsical collaboration with Sanrio. It’s the perfect blend of idol affection and Sanrio sweetness, a charm that seems to radiate its own soft pastel cheer.

Also, it’s cute AF!


Walking out of Mandarake spending almost exactly what I had planned felt like a major win. This year I’ve done almost the same thing. I have very specific ideas including photos and notes about how much I’m going to spend.

We’ll see how that plans out.

There will be more from my adventures in Tokyo soon so…

Stay tuned!