After Trade Fest at Super7, we ventured to the East Bay to bid farewell to Kimono My House located at the top of an industrial building in Emeryville. For 28 years, KMH was the oldest operating Japanese Toy Store in the United States. To celebrate KMH's history, collectors from around the world descended upon the Bay Area like the Swallows returning to the Mission at San Juan Capistrano. These guys collectively referred to as the "Die-Cast Guys" represent a few factions of toy geekdom including the 11-year old grand daddy site and forum ToyboxDX founded by Alen Yen or the guys that hang out at Josh Bernard's CollectionDX and the mecha-heads over at Robot Japan. Yes, there were a few of us from Skullbrain, but I have to admit, I felt a bit out of my element. All told, there was probably 40-50 people at KMH lining up to buy toys. I've never ever seen it that crowded, nor waiting that long in line to pay. As I was paying Yuki for my toys, he mentioned that he was moving the store to another location? Maybe KMH is not gone for good! Just this old store. Too bad. Either way, it will never be the same. For more pics of Kimono My House from our visit in November, CLICK HERE.
The following 3 pics stolen from Hypermook!
Yuki gave me this tiny Kamen Rider toys for around a buck each! They rule!!
My last toy from Kimono My House will be this translucent Jeeg. Thanks to Bert for showing me the way. This thing is so friggin cool I can't believe I've never picked one up before. Looks like candy, I want to pick it up and eat it. It's hefty and has a really sturdy feel to it. It's a toy made to be played with.
Thanks Yuki! Sounds like we will still be seeing you around!
2 comments:
So, they haven't physically shut their store down, have they?
And even if they did, you think they'll repopen in another location?
well, not yet. but maybe soon. Yuki said something about opening the retail store in another location, but I dunno.
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