Tourist Goods

Kinokuniya contains a few small areas for apparel, ceramics, and other tourist goods. The mugs, coasters, and dishes were situated on a shelf on the first floor, while the T-shirt rack was located on the second floor, near the manga bookshelves. Kinokuniya sells New York City skyline mugs and salt/pepper shakers, as well as many animal-themed cups. Their T-shirts depict characters such as Elizabeth the duck from the manga Gintama (shown above). The rack’s placement is useful for fans to buy additional merchandise in support of their favorite manga. According to Manager Takano, Japanese tourists tend to purchase New York City novelties in-house at Kinokuniya rather than other stores in Manhattan. They feel more comfortable as they feel a sense of familiarity when they step into the store. As they peruse through the store, they might pick up a mug or a T-shirt as a souvenir to couple with a new novel or manga. Kinokuniya appeals to customers by bringing convenience through its comprehensive and diverse inventory, and appeals to Japanese consumers by hosting book-signing events, speakers, and story-times for kids.