The Labubu Craze of 2026: Why Japan Can't Get Enough
If you have walked through Shibuya or Harajuku lately, you have undoubtedly seen the mischievous, sharp-toothed grin of Labubu. Created by artist Kasing Lung, this forest monster has transcended its origins to become a global cultural phenomenon. As we move through 2026, the demand for these designer toys has reached an all-time high, particularly for limited-edition collaborations and US-exclusive releases that are difficult to find in local Japanese hobby shops.
While Labubu is available in Asia, many of the most coveted drops—especially those tied to Western artists or North American events—are released primarily through US retailers. For collectors in Japan, this often leads to the frustration of seeing 'Sold Out' signs or facing exorbitant prices on the secondary market. However, owning these rare pieces is easier than you think. You might also like to Read more: Stop Believing You Can't Get the Latest Labubu Drops While Living in Japan.
Why the US Market has the Best Labubu Drops
In 2026, the US market has become a central hub for exclusive Pop Mart releases and independent designer toy conventions. Retailers like Mindzai, Myplasticheart, and even major US-based e-commerce platforms often stock variants that never make it to the Tokyo or Osaka flagship stores. For the serious collector, accessing these stores is the only way to complete a set without paying massive scalper premiums.
The challenge, of course, is that many of these US stores do not offer direct international shipping to Japan, or if they do, the costs are prohibitive. This is where savvy Japanese collectors are turning to international logistics solutions. Check our guide on the reality of global collecting: Read more: The Truth About Scoring Rare Labubu Drops: Why You Don’t Need to Be in the US to Own One.
5 Steps to Buying Labubu from the USA and Shipping to Japan
If you are ready to expand your collection, follow this structured approach to ensure your Labubu figures arrive safely and affordably.
1. Get Your Free US Shipping Address
Since most US retailers only ship domestically, you need a local presence. By signing up for comGateway, you receive a dedicated US shipping address. This allows you to shop at any US online store as if you were living there. It is the most reliable package forwarder for enthusiasts who want to bridge the gap between US supply and Japanese demand.
2. Shop at Your Favorite US Stores
Once you have your address, head to sites like Pop Mart US, eBay, or specialized toy boutiques. When you check out, simply enter your comGateway US address as the shipping destination. This bypasses international shipping restrictions and often qualifies you for free domestic shipping within the US.
3. Consolidate and Save
One of the best secrets to saving money is not shipping items one by one. If you are buying multiple blind boxes or several different Labubu series, you can hold them at your US address and consolidate them into a single shipment. For those who shop frequently, looking into Prime membership benefits can offer even deeper discounts on shipping rates and extended storage times.
4. Calculate Your Shipping and Duties
Before you ship your haul to Japan, it is important to know what you will be paying. You can use a shipping calculator to estimate shipping cost based on the weight and dimensions of your package. Additionally, you should be aware of Japanese customs regulations. Most toys are subject to standard import duties and consumption tax (GST/VAT) if the value exceeds 16,666 JPY. Keeping your package value in mind helps avoid surprises at the border.
5. Ship and Track to Your Door in Japan
Once you are ready, authorize the shipment from your dashboard. If you are new to the process, this step-by-step guide explains exactly how it works from the moment your package hits the US warehouse to the moment it arrives at your home in Tokyo, Yokohama, or anywhere else in Japan.
Pro-Tips for Japanese Labubu Collectors
To stay ahead of the curve in 2026, you need more than just a shipping address; you need a strategy. Read more: 7 Secrets to Scoring Exclusive Labubu Figures from the USA While Living in Japan to learn about drop times and how to navigate high-traffic releases.
| Feature | Benefit for Japanese Shoppers |
|---|---|
| Sales Tax-Free Address | Shopping via a tax-free US state (like Oregon) saves you up to 10% on the purchase price. |
| Repackaging Service | Reduces dimensional weight, lowering your final shipping cost to Japan. |
| Package Tracking | Real-time updates as your Labubu crosses the Pacific. |
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have specific concerns about shipping fragile collectibles or restricted items, the FAQ section is an excellent resource. You can find answers at the help center regarding insurance, support for damaged items, and how to handle high-value shipments.
Collecting Labubu in 2026 doesn't have to be limited by geography. By leveraging a US forwarder, you can access the world's best toy markets from the comfort of your home in Japan. Start building your ultimate collection today!
