Over the last decade, Manga in Alicante has blossomed, especially on Calle Serrano, which has evolved into the city’s unofficial hub for Japanese pop culture. What was once considered a niche hobby has grown into a mainstream passion that captivates fans of all ages. Calle Serrano has become famous for its numerous shops selling Japanese manga, anime figurines, snacks, and other related paraphernalia, making it a must-visit street for any Manga or anime fan visiting Alicante.
What is Manga?
Manga, originating from Japan, refers to a style of comic or graphic novel known for its distinct artwork, expressive characters, and unique storytelling techniques. Unlike Western comics, manga spans a broad range of genres that appeal to diverse age groups—from action and adventure to romance, history, and even daily life stories.
Many Mangas are serialised in magazines and later compiled into paperback volumes, and they often serve as the source material for anime (Japanese animated shows). Manga is typically read right to left, which may feel unusual at first, but this is a nod to its Japanese roots.
For those unfamiliar, manga isn’t just “comics for kids”; it’s a respected and influential art form in Japan and globally. It explores complex themes and deep character development, often addressing social issues, personal struggles, and fantastical worlds that resonate with readers of all ages.
In Alicante, the growing popularity of manga reflects how this medium has crossed cultural borders, inviting readers to explore Japan’s art, history, and philosophy through these richly illustrated stories.
The Rise of Manga Culture in Alicante
It all began in 2003 when Ateneo Cómics opened on Calle Serrano, marking the first store to cater to manga and comic book lovers in the city. Ateneo’s success laid the foundation for other shops to open along this street, creating a hotspot for pop culture enthusiasts. Soon after, Comix City followed, bringing not just manga but also role-playing games, board games, and collectable figurines, establishing Calle Serrano as Alicante’s very own “Geek Street”.
In recent years, the culture of Manga in Alicante has been supercharged by the internet and social media, which have allowed fans to connect, share their favourite series, and expand their interests in all things Japanese. This phenomenon has transformed Calle Serrano into a bustling hub for the city’s Manga scene, attracting locals and visitors alike.
Manga in Alicante – A New Generation of Fans
As Manga in Alicante has become more popular, its shops have adapted to cater to a wide demographic. Not only do they sell the latest manga titles, but they also stock merchandise related to popular series such as Naruto, Dragon Ball, and My Hero Academia. Kurogami is one of the newer players in this scene, offering everything from One Piece card games to Demon Slayer mystery boxes. Located at Calle Serrano, 11, Kurogami provides a comprehensive range of collectables, games, and Japanese imports, making it a treasure trove for both casual fans and hardcore collectors.
Lorenzo Quiles, the current owner of Comix City, comments on the growth of this street’s reputation: “In the last five or six years, Manga culture has exploded. We now see people from all walks of life visiting the shops here, which was unimaginable when we first started.” This explosion of interest is evident not just in the range of products available, but also in the thriving community that surrounds these shops, from regular tournaments to special events.
Yokoso Market: Merging Manga and Japanese Cuisine
A unique addition to Calle Serrano is Yokoso Market, a Japanese grocery store that has become a popular spot not only for food lovers but also for Manga enthusiasts. Owned by Raquel Soler Alcaraz, Yokoso Market combines the joy of Japanese cuisine with the city’s burgeoning Manga culture. Visitors can purchase Japanese snacks while browsing through posters, manga, and anime merchandise. Raquel comments that the store’s walls have become a canvas for fans to draw their favourite characters and leave notes about new manga series.
Yokoso Market, though primarily a food store, is an example of how Manga in Alicante extends beyond just comic books. It represents a fusion of culture, where Japanese food, art, and Manga coexist, creating a unique experience for anyone visiting Calle Serrano.
The Future of Manga in Alicante
Manga in Alicante continues to grow, fuelled by the dedication of local shops like Ateneo Comics, Comix City, and Kurogami. These shops aren’t just retailers; they are community hubs where fans can meet, discuss their favourite series, and participate in special events like role-playing game nights and anime screenings.
Additionally, Alicante’s Salón del Manga event, held annually, further demonstrates the city’s commitment to celebrating Japanese culture. The event showcases not just Manga but also traditional Japanese arts, cosplaying, and even video games, helping to solidify Alicante’s status as a Manga-friendly city.
For anyone with a love for Japanese culture, a visit to Calle Serrano is a must. Whether you’re an avid reader of manga or just curious about this world, you’ll find that Manga in Alicante has become a colourful and exciting part of the city’s cultural landscape.
Manga in Alicante has successfully brought together diverse groups of people, turning this once niche hobby into a cultural mainstay in the heart of Alicante.
