










about
KOTOBUKIYA
Kotobukiya was established in 1947 as a toy store in the prefecture of Tachikawa-Shi Tokyo. It was there that Kotobukiya started manufacturing toys and various other product services for Japan.
Kotobukiya is mainly known for it's high quality statues and model kits. With their high quality and reputation allowed them to be licensed to produce statues for leading company's such as Marvel, Disney, Dc Comics and Studio Ghibli.
Back in 2018 Steph and I traveled to Japan and we got to visit the Kotobukiya Store/Office located in Akihabara, Tokyo. Which is when this photo was taken. Yes the whole building was painted in the famous Kotobukiya Green.They had 3 levels to explore with each level focusing on a particular genre or theme.
Kotobukiya are also known for their Bishoujo Statues. Bishoujo means beautiful girl or beautiful long haired girl. These are beautiful female statues designed with elegance and style.
We have always stocked Kotobukiya in our store and was one of our first brands in our store.

The Bishoujo Range
Kotobukiya’s Bishoujo line reimagines iconic characters through the lens of renowned artist Shunya Yamashita’s unique anime-inspired style. This series emphasizes the "beautiful girl" aesthetic, blending elegance with playful charm.
The Bishoujo range spans a variety of franchises, from Western pop culture icons like Marvel, DC, and G.I. Joe to beloved Japanese series. Each figure exudes personality and flair, often featuring dynamic poses, expressive faces, and meticulously designed outfits.
The Bishoujo line is cherished for transforming familiar characters into fresh, imaginative interpretations while maintaining their recognizable traits.

The ARTFX J Japan
The ARTFX J series by Kotobukiya is a celebration of Japanese pop culture, bringing beloved anime, manga, and video game characters to life with impeccable detail and craftsmanship.
Designed for passionate fans, ARTFX J statues typically feature dynamic poses, vibrant colors, and intricate sculpts that capture the essence of the original characters. From classic series to contemporary hits, this product line is a gateway to owning a piece of Japan’s rich storytelling tradition.
Whether it’s a hero mid-action or a quiet, contemplative moment, ARTFX J statues resonate deeply with collectors and enthusiasts alike.
From Artwork to Model Creation
Kotobukiya’s creative process begins with concept art that captures the heart of the character. Renowned illustrators like Shunya Yamashita provide the artistic vision, which is then handed off to skilled sculptors and designers.
Using advanced techniques and traditional craftsmanship, the team meticulously brings the two-dimensional artwork into three-dimensional reality. Every curve, texture, and detail is carefully sculpted and painted to match the artist’s intent, ensuring a seamless transition from page to figure.
This collaborative process between illustrators, sculptors, and painters is what sets Kotobukiya apart, making each statue a true work of art.

The Detail in Kotobukiya Statues
Attention to detail is a hallmark of Kotobukiya’s collectibles. From the intricate textures of clothing and armor to lifelike facial expressions, each statue is designed to immerse collectors in the world of their favorite characters.
The meticulous paint application enhances the depth and realism, with shading and highlights that bring the figures to life.
Even the bases of many statues are crafted with thematic elements, adding an extra layer of storytelling to the display. Whether it’s the subtle movement of fabric, the gleam of metal, or the dynamic energy captured in a pose, Kotobukiya statues stand out as masterpieces of design and craftsmanship.
