The first branch of Japan’s iconic Tsutaya Bookstore opened its doors in Cambodia at AEON Mall Phnom Penh on April 24, 2025, and it’s already making waves.

The bookstore is way more than just a place to grab a book – it’s a cultural spot that combines literature, lifestyle and a chill vibe.

Spanning 1,500 square metres, Tsutaya Bookstore houses over 70,000 books in English, Khmer and Japanese.

Whether you're into bestsellers, hidden gems or rare finds, there’s something for everyone. But it's not just books – there's also an Ivy Tokyo Coffee Lounge, where you can sip on coffee or tea in a space that blends Japanese minimalism with Cambodian warmth.

At the grand opening ceremony, Ueno Atsushi, Ambassador of Japan to Cambodia, added a special touch by presenting 100 hand-made traditional fans from Kyoto Prefecture.

These fans, printed with “Arigatou” (thank you), symbolise the deep cultural bond between Japan and Cambodia.

“Tsutaya is about inspiration, connection and the joy of discovering something new,” said Kim Leang Kean, ULS Managing Director, who operates the Phnom Penh store.

Hideyuki Uemoto, CEO of Tsutaya Books Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., reflected on the potential impact of Tsutaya Bookstore in Cambodia.

“Cambodia is a country with a young, dynamic population and a growing appetite for culture and education. We believe Tsutaya Bookstore will play a special role in nurturing creativity and lifelong learning here,” Uemoto said.

Beyond the shelves, Tsutaya offers a mix of lifestyle goods, stationery and local Khmer crafts from Artisans Angkor.

“Innovation in bookstores isn’t just about selling books; it’s about offering a lifestyle,” said Muneaki Masuda, Tsutaya’s founder.

Whether you're a bookworm, a coffee enthusiast or someone seeking a new experience, Tsutaya Bookstore is the place to be. Visit today and start your journey of discovery!