Echo Arts and Gifts

Echo Arts and Gifts is the store my 11-​year-​old self wish existed in Melbourne 10 years ago.
In a hidden corner of Melbourne Square Mall, Echo claims to specialize in «animé, feng shui, and various knives and swords” – which it, indeed, does. However, the selection is pretty limited and quite expensive (at least 2−3x as much as you can find online) – especially if you consider that most of these goods are imports and can be obtained online for much cheaper. However, Echo does seem to be up on all the latest animé fads, and the few times I’ve been by the store, always has a few teenagers looking at the newest merch for the next big fandom.
The store is grubby (you WILL feel awkward going there) and the customer service is essentially nonexistent, but if you’re trying to buy some «Japanesesque» /​animé merchandise at the last minute and don’t have time to wait for shipping from an online purchase, Echo is the place to go. It doesn’t seem particularly… suited for Melbourne, to say the least (I never really thought Melbourne had a big animé fandom population,) but I’m sure it’s a welcome addition for big fans.
Echo is also a local Space Coast business, so I’m glad to see them in the mall promoting animé /​Asian goods. Hopefully they expand and are able to lower their prices soon!