Honestly, this would not bum me out, but make me very happy. Tons of others with the same passion for what I do would be killer. That would be inspiration, its not about who is better, but rather a collective of genius. That is what I need to be in. 2 dollars a figure x 50 figures = $ 100.00 bucks a day. I can live on that , where is my ticket ?? I will make it there at some point, its a must.
I think it would be humbling and inspirational to see and meet a face/person/people behind what we collect, or/and produce etc. I have never been to the RxH shop or been to any Kaiju toy shops...even when I live only a few hours by plane. One day... I think I would be teary and be excited like hell just walking into Mori's shop.
I agree Kidclam. Although I am much farther away. It would be an unreal experience to visit Mori's shop. Envious of those of us who are able to make the trip. To meet the people and see the places that make our collections possible.
I go almost every week.. still makes me excited every time. There is just SO much to take in - and always a new surprise awaiting you. I do have a request - if you do visit please don't bug Mori by trying to throw money at him to buy test shots or one-offs. Be respectful. Mori loves all his fans equally... and will show no favoritism. Plus there is always tons of good stuff to buy on the for sale shelf.
Just speaking for myself- If I ever do make it to visit... I wouldn't have any money left to throw at Mori. I think the cost of the trip might wipe me out. I'd be happy just to pick up some minis and shake Mori's hand.
+ 1 With records, toys, books, and clothes...I think I would be broke. Last time I went to Japan was in 2000 to Sapporo and then Tokyo. We were invited by Shift to do a show. I met so many Japanese graphic/web designers who were also the people I admire. I brought back over 40 KG of vinyl (in my hand carry ) and lots of toys (I collected Medicom back then). EDIT: Vinyl -> records that is.
The RxH shop is one of the farthest from central Tokyo, but it's worth visiting at least once, mostly to see the museum of older RxH figures in the display cases. It's really nice to see them in person! Shinto Gangu also has a lot of figures for sale, but they're pretty much the same figures you can buy online from Super7, Lulubell, etc. Advantage is getting them for original Japanese retail, which can be a huge savings for the larger figures like the Bigaroid and Fortune Cats.
Yeah Scott, I have to say this was the quintessential experience of my trip to Japan. Finally meeting Mori and seeing his shop. Totally relate on how Mori seems to communicate without knowing too much English but having datadub there to translate was next level. Mori's personality immediately made you feel like you were seeing an old friend instantly. I can also never stop marveling at Japanese efficiency. It's so ingrained in their culture that it never ceases to amaze me.
This is the most appealing thing to me...360 Toy Group on the lower east side here in NYC had that vibe. Jakuan was a little intimidating at first, but once it became clear that you were serious about toys, it was always fun to hang and chat with someone like that...too bad 360 no longer exists... I like the idea that Mori has, through the store, made himself available to people on a regular basis...and it will be an important stop for me when I make the trek.
Especially when all your customers are Hardcore Toy Nerds. Takes a certain kind of Zen. Or as Luke/Lulubell calls it - Nerd Whispering
