Studio Ghibli's first official us store opening soon

At a glance:

• First Donguri Republic store in the US opens June 23 at Del Amo Fashion Center in Torrance, CA.
• Temporary location sells over 400 Ghibli merchandise items until December 31, 2026.
• Standalone store marks a shift from previous US pop-up collaborations.

A New Chapter for Ghibli in the US

Studio Ghibli is making its first official US retail debut with Donguri Republic, a flagship store dedicated to the animation studio's merchandise. The 10,000-square-foot space at Del Amo Fashion Center in Torrance, California, opens on June 23, just weeks before Anime Expo in Los Angeles (July 2-5). The design draws heavily from Ghibli's whimsical aesthetic, featuring wood-inspired interiors, life-sized character displays, and a iconic Totoro bus stop installation that doubles as a photo opportunity.

The store's layout mimics the warmth of Ghibli's storytelling, with curated sections dedicated to beloved films like Spirited Away, My Neighbor Totoro, and Princess Mononoke. This standalone approach contrasts sharply with earlier US pop-ups, which were typically temporary installations hosted within existing retailers like Kinokuniya in San Jose or JapanLA in 2017.

Temporary but Ambitious

Despite its limited run through December 31, 2026, the store will offer an extensive catalog of over 400 officially licensed products. These include apparel, collectibles, home goods, and exclusive items not available in Japan's Donguri locations. The inventory spans multiple Ghibli franchises, ensuring options for longtime fans and newcomers alike.

The temporary nature of the store has sparked curiosity among collectors and casual visitors. While Studio Ghibli has not committed to a permanent US location, the success of this trial could influence future expansion plans. The proximity to Anime Expo—a major draw for anime enthusiasts—positions the store as a potential pilgrimage site for fans.

From Pop-ups to a Standalone Store

Previous US collaborations required fans to visit existing retailers during limited-time events. Donguri Republic's standalone model represents a significant shift, offering year-round access to Ghibli merchandise in a dedicated space. The store's design, which incorporates natural wood elements and whimsical displays, aims to recreate the experience of visiting a Ghibli-themed world.

The decision to open in Torrance, rather than a major metropolitan area like New York or Chicago, may reflect strategic testing. The Del Amo Fashion Center, while not as centrally located as other malls, provides ample space for the store's immersive design and has historically attracted large crowds for pop culture events.

What's Next?

The store's success could pave the way for additional Donguri Republic locations in North America. Studio Ghibli's growing global footprint, bolstered by the success of recent films like The Boy and the Heron, suggests increasing demand for branded merchandise. For now, fans have a limited window to experience the first official US Donguri Republic store, which opens this June.