Table of Contents
The Magic Behind the Pop Mart Star People Hype
As we move through January 2026, the designer toy world has been taken by storm by a single name: Pop Mart Star People. While Pop Mart has always been a leader in the blind box industry, the Star People series represents a significant shift in aesthetic. These figures, characterized by their celestial themes, translucent materials, and intricate cosmic details, have become the most sought-after collectibles of the year.
The hype isn't just about the toys themselves; it is about the exclusivity. In the United States, several limited-edition variants and "secret" figures have been released that are currently unavailable in physical stores in Tokyo or Osaka. For serious collectors in Japan, this creates a challenge: how do you get your hands on these US-exclusive releases without paying exorbitant reseller prices on secondary markets?
Why US Stores are the Best Place to Shop in 2026
Even though Pop Mart has a global presence, the US market often receives unique collaborations and early-access launches. In 2026, many US-based retailers have partnered with local artists to create "Star People" variants that are only sold within North America. Shopping directly from these US stores ensures that you are getting authentic products at the original retail price.
However, many of these retailers do not offer direct international shipping, or if they do, the costs can be prohibitive. This is where savvy collectors in Japan are turning to a reliable package forwarder like comGateway. By using a US-based forwarding service, you can unlock access to any store that ships within the United States, effectively bypassing regional restrictions.
5 Steps to Get Your Star People Collection to Japan
If you are ready to add these cosmic characters to your shelf, follow this structured guide to ensure a smooth shopping experience.
1. Secure Your US Address
The first hurdle is having a physical location in the US to receive your packages. When you sign up for comGateway, you are instantly provided with a tax-free US shipping address. This address acts as your personal hub. Because the warehouse is located in a sales-tax-free state, you can save up to 10% on the initial purchase price compared to shipping to other US states.
2. Shop Like a US Local
With your new address in hand, you can head to the official Pop Mart US website or other major retailers like NTWRK and specialized designer toy boutiques. Simply enter your comGateway address at checkout. If you find that a store doesn't accept international credit cards, don't worry—most forwarding services offer assisted buying options to help you complete your purchase.
3. Estimate Your Costs Early
Before you hit the "buy" button, it is wise to know what you will be paying for the journey from the US to Japan. You can use a shipping calculator to get a clear picture of the total investment. By entering the approximate weight and dimensions of the Pop Mart blind boxes, you can estimate shipping cost scenarios, allowing you to budget effectively for your collection.
4. Consolidate and Save
One of the best secrets of pro-collectors is consolidation. Instead of shipping one blind box at a time, wait for multiple orders to arrive at your US address. You can then combine them into a single shipment to significantly reduce shipping fees. For those who plan on frequenting US stores throughout 2026, looking into Prime membership benefits can offer even deeper discounts on international shipping rates and extended storage times.
5. Final Delivery to Japan
Once your items are ready, you can trigger the shipment to your home in Japan. For a detailed look at the logistics, you can check out this how it works guide. The process of shipping from USA to Japan is remarkably fast in 2026, with most express shipments arriving in major cities like Tokyo or Yokohama within 3 to 5 business days.
What Japan Residents Need to Know About Customs and Taxes
Importing goods into Japan is generally straightforward, but there are a few rules to keep in mind for 2026. For personal imports, if the total value of your shipment (including a portion of the shipping cost) is under ¥16,666, you are typically exempt from Japanese Consumption Tax and customs duties.
However, for large "Star People" hauls that exceed this value, expect to pay a 10% consumption tax upon delivery. Designer toys usually fall under a category with 0% customs duty, meaning you only need to worry about the consumption tax and a small handling fee from the local courier. Always keep your invoices ready to ensure a quick clearance through Japan Customs.
By following these steps and utilizing a trusted partner for your logistics, you can stay ahead of the trends and ensure your Pop Mart collection is the envy of every collector in Japan.
