I am sounding the alarm on Japan's Jellycat Sky Dragon shortage and why I buy from US stores instead

The critical Jellycat Sky Dragon shortage in Japan

I have spent the last few months watching the Jellycat Sky Dragon become the most sought-after collectible in the plush world. This ethereal, sage-colored dragon has gone viral across Asia, and my attempts to find it in local Japanese boutiques have been met with nothing but empty shelves and long waiting lists. We are currently in February 2026, and the demand has only intensified since its initial release. I realized very quickly that relying on domestic restocks was a failing strategy.

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More about shipping to Japan

I noticed that while Japanese collectors are struggling, the inventory flow in the United States remains much more consistent. This is a serious situation for anyone hoping to complete their collection without paying exorbitant secondary market prices. I recommend looking at the broader picture: Read more: US Retail Access vs Japan Boutique Scarcity: Why waiting for local Sky Dragon restocks could cost you thousands in 2026.

Why I find better stock at US retailers like Nordstrom

In my experience, US department stores like Nordstrom receive exclusive stock allocations that we simply do not see here. While the official Jellycat UK site often sells out in minutes, I have successfully found the Sky Dragon available at major US retailers. These stores are my primary target because they offer a reliable alternative to the boutique scarcity we face in Japan. I have found that I can often shop us store sites even when the items are marked as 'out of stock' globally.

However, many of these US stores do not offer direct international shipping to Tokyo or Osaka, or if they do, the costs are prohibitive. This is why I started using a tax-free us address provided by comGateway. By using a freight forwarder, I can access these US-only exclusives and then ship to Japan on my own terms. You might also like: Read more: Saving 18,000 Yen on the Jellycat Sky Dragon by bypassing Japan's boutique supply barriers.

My shipping estimates and logistics analysis

I want to provide a clear breakdown of what I expect when shipping a Jellycat Sky Dragon. This information is vital for anyone trying to calculate their total landed cost before making a purchase. I always use a shipping calculator to estimate shipping cost before I click the buy button.

I suggest checking the comGateway shipping calculator specifically for your city in Japan to get the most accurate numbers. I recommend: Read more: Don't dragon your feet on savings of 15,000 Yen by sourcing Jellycat Sky Dragon from US stores.

My step-by-step guide to shipping from the US to Japan

I have refined my process to ensure my Japan delivery is always fast and secure. Here is the step-by-step guide on how it works when I buy from the US:

• I sign up for a comGateway account to receive my own US shipping address.
• I visit the Nordstrom website and place my order using that US address as the delivery destination.
• If I ever run into an issue where my Japanese credit card is not accepted, I simply use the BuyForMe service for an assisted purchase. This proxy shopping feature is a lifesaver for US-exclusive drops.
• Once my Sky Dragon arrives at the warehouse, I am notified. I can then choose my preferred shipping speed for buy from US ship to Japan.
• I track my package until it reaches my door in Japan.

For more details on the assisted purchase process, you can view the BuyForMe service page. It takes the stress out of dealing with retailers that have strict payment filters.

What I learned about Japan import rules for plush toys

I must emphasize the importance of understanding Japanese customs. In my experience, shipments valued under 16,666 JPY generally do not incur import duty or consumption tax. Since the Jellycat Sky Dragon usually retails for around $50-$60 USD, you are well under this limit if you are only buying one. However, if you are buying multiple dragons or consolidating other luxury items, keep an eye on that total value to avoid unexpected fees upon Japan delivery.

We must be diligent collectors. The Sky Dragon is a beautiful piece, but the market in Japan is currently too volatile and overpriced. By looking toward the US and using a reliable freight forwarder, I have managed to secure my collection without the stress of local boutique failures. You can find more information about ship to Japan logistics on the Japan delivery destination page. I hope my experience helps you secure your dragon before they disappear for good in 2026.