must visit places in tokyo for anime fans

• Dragon Ball
• Weathering With You (Tenki No Ko)
• Your Name (Kimi No Wa)
• Fate/stay night
• One Punch Man

11 Must See Anime & Manga Attractions in Tokyo

Title: 11 Must-See Anime & Manga Attractions in Tokyo

So, you love anime & manga and you’re planning to come to Japan for anime tourism?

Well, you are in the right place!

In this post, I’ll show you the best places to visit in Tokyo to scratch that anime and manga itch.

Japan is all about anime, so don’t miss these spots!

1. Akihabara

First, let’s begin with the crown jewel.

Akihabara or Akiba, also known colloquially as “Anime Heaven” or “Anime City”, is the biggest anime shopping district in the world. 

 It  is, frankly, the ultimate otaku destination where any fan of anime and manga will enjoy every moment this city has to offer.

Some of the things you can find are:

• Anime & manga stores (figures, keychains, etc)
• Real-life locations featured in  anime
• Anime T-shirts
• Electronics
• Restaurants
• Retro video game stores
• Gashapon (Japanese toy capsule)
• Anime themed cafés

In other words, there are stores for every type of fan, and a lot of fun too!  

For the anime merch crowd, there are plenty of shops selling anime figures, keychains, buttons, pins, and so much more. The prices for these can range from a few hundred yen in stores like Surugaya or Lashinbang to over 100,000 yen at any display case store or for certain high quality  new or rare items. It really depends on the quality of the figure and the store you go to.

Because of the sheer amount of eye-catching shops filled with all kinds of merch, my advice is to check as many as possible before buying anything. You can often find the same product in a different store at a lower price, especially for pre-owned items. Why? Because a pre-owned item in Japan is often as good as new, or even sometimes  IS new, they will be unopened yet still cheaper). Compare prices before buying anything! Don’t get antsy!

( Note : Because this is considered “Anime City” you can find a lot of real-life locations featured in anime too!Some examples include Steins;Gate , No Game No Life , Love Live , to name a few. (Radio Kaikan, a key place in Steins;Gate holds several otaku-based shops such as Ami-Ami.)

The electric town, another nickname for this wondrous and exciting city, is a place for every nerd, from the gamer to the anime fanatic.

Review:  If you are in Tokyo, you need to go to Akihabara. It is the biggest anime district and the best anime attraction in the world.

Closest station: Akihabara JR, Akihabara Tokyo Metro, and Toei Iwamotocho Station

Estimated time :  It depends on you. You can spend a whole day in Akihabara and still have more to see, as there are a lot of side alleys and hidden shops, a great place to explore!  

Cost : Free

English-friendly : Yes

In Odaiba, you can mainly find 4 anime attractions:

• Attack on Titan: Shingeki No Kyojin VR Attraction
• Life-Sized Unicorn Gundam Statue
• Gundam Café
• The Gundam Base Tokyo (shop)
• Digimon’s real-life locations

Review:  Even if you’re not a big fan of Gundam, Digimon or anime in general, this is one of the top tourist attractions in Tokyo. Because there are many things to do there, you’ll have a lot of fun. Just keep in mind that Odaiba is around 40 minutes away from central Tokyo.

Closest station: Tokyo Teleport Station

Estimated time: 4-6 hours

English-friendly: Yes

For more info:

Anime Attractions in Odaiba

3.Nakano Broadway

Nakano Broadway is a small indoor anime district. Compared to Akihabara, it’s smaller, so you won’t get lost!

• Anime posters

In comparison, Akihabara has more but you can often find older or rarer items in Nakano, so it is worth checking out.

Review:  If I have to choose between Akihabara or Nakano Broadway,  Akihabara would be my choice, due to Akiba being the biggest and best place for your anime fix. But, if you’ll be in Tokyo for more than 4 days, I definitely recommend you to go to Nakano Broadway too. This anime-shopping district is where I found  the cheapest anime figures like Ed of Full Metal Alchemist and cool anime posters of Code Geass and Gundam .

Nakano Broadway is worth visiting, but perhaps not as a top priority.

Closest station: Nakano Station

Estimated time: 3-4 hours

4. Ghibli Museum

If you love Ghibli movies, then look no further than the Ghibli museum. This treasure trove of everything Ghibli  doesn’t just display artwork and design materials, the building is designed to look and feel like you’re in a Ghibli movie brought to life!

With the classic natural and wooden atmosphere and an almost maze-like interior that’ll have you ducking to fit through small doors and climbing up spiral staircases, the museum itself is also designed by Studio Ghibli’s, their one work that you can only  experience in person.

The museum also screens a short film that you can view nowhere else.

Photo credit: Tripadvisor

You can even tour through the remade example workspaces of Ghibli animators including the legendary man himself Hayao Miyazaki, complete with the ashtray and cigarettes to make the experience of viewing his workspace more authentic and real to you, like he’s there with you.

The main attraction of the museum is ,of course, its accomplished and storied history and unique personality. A tour will guide through  the drawings from decades of Ghibli animated films, including a little education  about the art of animation and some access to what goes on behind the scenes of the animation process.

( Note : Booking tickets for Ghibli is a nightmare! It is worth the struggle but they sell out, FAST! An extra point to consider is that if you are buying tickets for a group, the purchaser MUST be with the group. It is very difficult to resell the tickets and you must bring your passport. Don’t find yourself getting caught!)

It is, however, well worth the hassle!

Review: The Ghibli museum is a museum for everyone.  Ghibli fans and animation enthusiasts alike will be moved seeing the drawings, sketches, and reference materials that were used to make some of their favorite movies, and even those with no interest in in Ghibli films or anime can tag along and get to visit one of the coolest and most elaborate buildings in Tokyo (that serves some top-notch chili soup!). Overall, I highly recommend this one for sure and you should definitely visit if you can! Tickets for the next month are sold on the 10th of every month but sometimes sell out within  minutes. Like I said, it’ll be well worth the fuss and rush if you can make it in, because it really is one of the best anime exhibitions out there, and not to be missed.

Closest station: Mitaka Stationery

Estimated time: 2-4 hours

Cost: 1000 yen

You can find more info on the official website .

5. Captain Tsubasa Town

Now, this one’s a hidden gem.

There’s a whole anime town dedicated to  Captain Tsubasa in Tokyo.

You can take pictures with Kojiro Hyuga, Taro Misaki, Genzo Wakabayashi, Odors Tsubasa himself, and more. It’s a fantastic experience, and it is free!

In this town, you can find:  

• Nine bronze statues of Captain Tsubasa’s characters, such as Kojiro Hyuga, Roberto Hungo, etc.
• One color statue of Ozora Tsubasa
• A restaurant decorated with the characters of Captain Tsubasa .
• An official store with Captain Tsubasa merchandise

…and much more!

Review: If you love Captain Tsubasa, you definitely need to visit this attraction. It is one of the best anime spots I’ve been to in Tokyo. I highly recommend you go, seeing it all is a lot of fun.

Closest station: Yotsugi or Keisei-Tateishi station

Estimated time: It can take you around 4-5 hours to walk around the town and visit each location.

English-friendly:  Please be aware that the staff at the restaurant don’t speak English, so don’t forget to use Google Translate 😀

Captain Tsubasa’s town in Tokyo

6. Pokémon Café and Pokémon Center

Pokémon Café, launched in 2018 in Nihonbashi, Tokyo, is a café-restaurant decorated with all your favorite pokémon.

Just next door is the Pokémon Center, a store where you can find all kinds of merch related to the world of Pokémon and Ash Ketchum’s adventures.

( Note :There are also Pokémon centers in Ikebukuro, Asakusa and a Pokémon store at Marunouchi station.)

Review: All in all, it might only be worth going if you’re a big fan of Pokémon. If you’re not, and you’re only in Tokyo for a few days, I think you can skip out on the Café. I’ve done a lot of anime tourism in Tokyo, and there are other better anime spots and restaurants you can visit (like the ones in this article!).

Closest station: Nihonbashi exit B4.

Estimated time: 1 to 2 hours

Cost: Around 2500 yen (22 USD) per person

Pokémon Cafe (All You Need to Know)

7. Your Name (Kimi No Na Wa) real-life locations

Created by Makoto Shinkai, Kimi No Na Wa (君の名は ) or better known as Your Name, is the highest-grossing anime movie in the world. That’s right, it made more money than Spirited Away from Studio Ghibli.

Thanks to the popularity of Kimi No Na Wa in 2016, anime pilgrimage has had a rebirth. Many have started to visit the real-life locations that Makoto Shinkai used to create Your Name .

These locations can be found all over Japan.

Review: I enjoyed walking through the real-life locations of Your Name (Kimi No Na Wa) .  The stairs are one of the most iconic places within the anime pilgrimage community. If you enjoy visiting real-life locations of popular anime, or just enjoy some beautiful and historical sight-seeing, I highly recommend you go. Seriously, you need to visit it! 

Closest station: Yotsuya or Yotsuya Sanchome

Estimated time:   30 minutes

Where Are The Red Stairs Of Your Name (Kimi No Na Wa)?

8. JUMP Store

JUMP Store is the official store of Shueisha’s Jump magazines. Within you’ll come across a vast variety of iconic products from Shueisha’s Jump manga and anime.

For example, they sell Luffy’s Straw Hat, Senzu beans, Boku no Hero Academia mugs, t-shirts and much more!

In Tokyo, they have stores at:

• Tokyo Skytree
• Tokyo Station (Character Street).

Note: If you are looking for Dragon Ball Attractions too, you need to check out Dragon Ball VR.

Review: The JUMP store is for otaku who are looking for anime merch for Bleach, Dragon Ball, Naruto, The Promised Neverland, Katekyo Hitman Reborn, and other JUMP shows. Visiting here is a must if you are in Tokyo!

Estimated time:   20 minutes

9. Otome Road

Otome Road (乙 女 ロ ー ド), also known as “Maiden Road”, is an anime street in Ikebukuro, Tokyo.

Compared to Akihabara and Nakano Broadway, where stores are more oriented towards boys or young men, Otome Road caters to girls and young women who like anime and manga.

More specifically, this is heaven for girls (or boys) who love the yaoi genre and is often called the “female Akihabara” because of this.

Review:  What makes this otaku spot unique is that Otome Road is the street where I have encountered the most cosplayers (mostly women). So, if you want to take pictures with people that are dressed like your favorite anime characters, you definitely need to visit this anime street. 

Closest station: Ikebukuro

Estimated time: It depends on you. It can take from 20 minutes to 5 or 6 hours.

Otome Road: The Best Place in Tokyo for Otaku Girls

10. Steins; Gate Real-Life Locations & Cafe

Steins;Gate and Steins;Gate 0 take place in Akihabara. So wherever you walk, you’re sure to spot a lot of popular places and landmarks featured in the series.

But the best part?

The Nyan Nyan Café also exists in real-life!!!

Review: Steins;Gate is one of my favorite anime and I enjoyed every second visiting the real-life locations. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the café if you’re in Tokyo. You’ll feel like you’re living in the anime during your tour around Akihabara!

Steins;Gate Real Life Locations in Tokyo Akihabara

Steins;Gate May Queen Nyan-Nyan (Anime cafe in Tokyo)

Estimated time:   It depends on you, but you can spend a whole day in Akihabara . There are a lot of things to see.  

English friendly: Yes

11. Anime Events

And finally, anime-focused events are one of the best attractions in Tokyo.

Check out our full list of the best events here:

The Best Anime Events in Tokyo

When it comes to popular anime-focused events, you’ve probably heard of J-World, Tokyo One Piece Tower, or Asagaya Tokyo Anime Street.

Unfortunately,they were shut down in 2019 and 2020, so they didn’t make the list. But ,don’t fret! Events like Anime Japan, Comiket, and Wonder Festival are still going strong, so you’ll have plenty of events celebrating anime and manga to choose from.

  And that’s all! Tell me, what’s your favorite anime attraction? Let me know in the comments below!

Hand-picked related articles

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The Best 4 Anime VR Attractions in Japan

What is Anime Pilgrimage and Anime Tourism?

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Are there any good anime themed Air B&Bs near Tokyo? (Or any other city in Japan?)

I am really hoping and praying that I can go visit Japan again soon!

I hope that the borders open soon!

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ANIME | Anime Spots

PLACES TO GO IN TOKYO FOR ANIME FANS

Article | |--> Dayna Hannah

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IF YOU LOVE JAPAN OTAKU CULTURE, YOU SHOULD CHECK OUT THESE TOP PLACES TO GO IN TOKYO FOR ANIME FANS!

Otaku culture in Japan is more than just the stores outside of Akihabara Station! All around the city, you can find museums, bookstores, and even entire neighborhoods that celebrate Japanese manga and anime! Here’s our guide to the best places to shop, explore, and learn about your favorite movies and shows!

ANIME MUSEUMS

Ghibli museum.

Suginami Animation Museum

Toei Animation Museum

Nerima City is the birthplace of Japanese animation. At Oizumi-Gakuen Station, you’ll see statues of characters from classic shows like Astro Boy and Tomorrow’s Joe . A short walk from here is the Toei Oizumi Animation Studio, the masterminds behind Dragonball , Sailor Moon , and One Piece . The studio opened a museum in 2018, where you’ll see precious Toei-related materials, including storyboards and celluloid pictures. The centerpiece of the museum is a panel with icons from shows and films stretching back sixty years. Tapping them brings up information about a particular series and sometimes video clips. In other parts of the museum, you can take pictures with life-size statues and cutouts of your favorite characters. The courtyard also has blackboards that invite you to draw pictures before you leave to explore the rest of Tokyo !

ANIME DISTRICTS IN TOKYO

If you want to venture off the well-beaten paths and into the “real” Tokyo, head to the Nakano neighborhood. North of the station, you’ll find the Sun Mall, which is a 225 meter-long shopping arcade. The main stretch passes boutiques, game centers, and small restaurants, and end at the Nakano Broadway shopping complex. The ground floor specializes in second-hand shops selling clothes, shoes, and unique knick-knacks. The second and third floors have anime and idol-related stores under the Mandarake franchise. In addition to anime DVDs and manga, you can also pick up figurines, video games, consoles, and trading cards. When you leave, don’t forget to check out the tiny sidestreets of the Sun Mall, where you’ll find a variety of restaurants, izakayas, and snack bars.

BEST PLACES TO BUY MANGA

You can buy manga in just about every bookstore in Japan, but if you’re looking for English versions, you’ll need patience and perseverance. Manga in Japan hardly ever gets printed in English, and most translated versions come out of North American publishing companies. However, it isn’t impossible to find it! If you love hunting, here are some locations worth checking out if you want titles in English.

Kinokuniya Takashimaya Shinjuku

Mandarake in nakano broadway, book off in akihabara.

Similar to Mandarake, Book Off also specializes in second-hand goods. Book Off is part of the “Off” store chain, which includes Mode Off for clothes and Hard Off for electronics. What you can get at Book Off will depend on when and where you go, but you’re most likely to find what you’re looking for at the Akihabara store. How many and which titles in English you’ll find are up to Lady Luck. However, the Akihabara neighborhood caters to the highest number of otaku tourists and expats in Japan. If nothing in the comic book section grabs your attention, check out the video games and figurines as well!

REAL-LIFE ANIME LOCATIONS IN TOKYO

Sailor moon.

Kimetsu no Yaiba

Steins;Gate

The Boy and the Beast

Digimon Adventure

When the Digidestined are on Earth, there are a lot of different places featured around the city, but most of them are in Odaiba. When you arrive on the island, you’ll easily spot the Ferris Wheel, Rainbow Bridge, and the Telecom Center, which all appeared in the background throughout the show. There are also some real-world locations where decisive moments in the plot took place. Tokyo Big Sight is where Vamdemon held Odaiba’s residents captive during his search for the eighth child. It’s also where the AnimeJapan convention takes place in March . Near here, the iconic Fuji TV building is where the last fight with Myotismon took place.

WHERE TO BUY ANIME MERCH FROM YOUR FAVORITE SERIES

Pokemon centers.

Pokemon Center TOKYO DX & Pokemon Cafe

Pokemon center mega tokyo & pikachu sweets, pokemon center shibuya, pokemon center skytree town, pokemon center tokyo-bay, sanrio stores.

Hello Kitty Japan DiverCity Tokyo Plaza

Hello kitty japan tokyo skytree town solamachi, sanrioworld ginza, sanrio gift gate adhoc shinjuku, sanrio gift gate ikebukuro store, sailor moon store, one piece - mugiwara in shibuya.

Ghibli - Donguri Kyowakoku in Tokyo SkyTree

Gundam Base in DiverCity

Evangelion - P’Parco in Ikebukuro

Whether you’re a casual or a diehard anime fan, there’s no doubt you’ve come across Evangelion. Despite it being such a big hit, there’s only one official shop in Japan. You can find the Evangelion shop inside of the P’Parco department store in Ikebukuro. The items range from subtle keychains to full-on NERV logos. You can find t-shirts featuring eye-catching and detailed designs that feature Tokyo-III’s scenery. Or, get some school supplies with images of the pilots. There are also umbrellas, backpacks, and pillows that have the same color schemes as the units!

BEST ANIME SHOPS IN TOKYO

Gamers in Akihabara

Kotobukiya in akihabara, surugaya shop in ikebukuro, k-books in ikebukuro, jump shop in tokyo skytree, animate in ikebukuro, radio kaikan in akihabara, character street in tokyo station.

Character Street houses a variety of shops dedicated to Japanese animation franchises, including a Pokemon and Hello Kitty store.

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15 Must-Visit Otaku Attractions in Tokyo: Ultimate Guide for Anime and Manga Fans

by Danica | Apr 9, 2024 | Japan Pop Culture , Japan Travel , Japanese culture | 0 comments

One of the most significant aspects of Japan’s entertainment industry, renowned worldwide, is anime, manga, and video games. The influence of anime/manga and video games continues to expand, with more fans emerging, eager to explore their origins. These diverse forms of media are integral to Japanese culture, and for enthusiasts, experiencing the origins of their favourite content is a must when visiting otaku attractions in Tokyo.

Whether you’re a devoted otaku, passionate about anime, manga, video games, or all of the above, Tokyo offers an array of places to explore and activities to enjoy, ensuring you’ll never experience a dull moment. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and embrace the anime lifestyle as you traverse Tokyo, discovering these unique otaku attractions.

Table of Contents

Diving Right Into the List of Prime Otaku Attractions in Tokyo

1. akihabara.

This is a city in the Chiyoda ward of Tokyo known for its electric expanse of anime, manga, and otaku gamer-centred shops, sites, and events. A prominent store in Akihabara is Mandarake, which is known as the biggest anime and manga store in the world. There, you can find manga, anime collectables, figures, video games, and more. Mandarake is the go-to shop for finding rare and niche items relating to all your otaku needs.

Of course, Akihabara has many similarly large-scale anime and manga stores, like Animate, Melon Books, Volks, Akihabara Gamers, and Book Off. Book Off is unique in that it is a store selling used books, meaning it has one of the vastest expanses of manga and comic books, in addition to having them in multiple languages. Volks and K-Books and many others are located in the Radio Kaikan building, popular amongs the fans of the hit anime Steins;Gate .

Given Akihabara’s vast and vibrant atmosphere, navigating it all at once can be overwhelming. To simplify your experience, Flip Japan offers guided tours to help you explore the city. The tour will take you to all the major tourist spots, allow for shopping, and include a visit to a maid cafe as well.

Akihabara is also the location of Kanda Myojin Shrine, known and loved by otakus everywhere, especially by those who have seen LoveLive! It is a beautiful serene place to stop by and get a quick blessing.

Experiencing Akihabara and simply strolling around is inherently thrilling, but it becomes even more captivating on Sundays when the main street, Chuo Street, is closed to traffic. Chuo Street shuts down every Sunday from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm from October to March, and from 1:00 pm to 6:00 pm from April to September, providing pedestrians with ample opportunity to explore.

Nakano, situated in the Special Ward of Tokyo, is renowned for Nakano Broadway, a four-story indoor shopping mall. The ground floor houses typical stores like Uniqlo, an ice cream parlor, and cafes. As you ascend to the second floor, you’ll find an extensive array of shops, ranging from Japanese pop culture to Disney and American pop.

Although Nakano Broadway is smaller than Akihabara, given its mall status rather than a city, its uniqueness lies in the diversity of its shops. While there are approximately 25 Mandarake stores, each offers a distinct experience, transforming the mall into a collection of individual shops. For example, on the fourth floor, Mandarake Henya features a hall of Tori gates. Throughout the mall, you’ll encounter numerous quirky and eccentric shops, ensuring endless entertainment with each visit. From collectible figures, cosplays, manga, and video games to all things retro, Nakano Broadway is a must-see for otaku enthusiasts.

3. Pokemon Centre and Cafe

For avid Pokémon enthusiasts, Tokyo boasts 5 Pokémon Centers, with additional locations scattered throughout Japan, including Chuo City, Toshima City, Chiyoda City, Sky Tree, Shibuya City, and more. Moreover, there’s a dedicated Pokémon Cafe offering themed food and beverages, along with collectible items like plushies and kitchen utensils. The cafe even stocks Pokémon video games and trading cards. With its wide array of Pokémon-themed delicacies, interactive games, and merchandise, this center is a haven for all Pokémon lovers.

4. Ghibli Museum

The Ghibli Museum is situated within Inokashira Park, encompassing a vast area dedicated to showcasing the beauty and magic of Ghibli. The museum features both permanent exhibits and rotating displays, offering a dynamic experience that must be encountered in person as photography is prohibited inside. Boasting interactive exhibits, life-size replicas of iconic animated scenes, and a glimpse into the inner workings of Ghibli Studios, this museum epitomizes the spirit of Ghibli. Due to its immense popularity and acclaim, it’s advisable to secure tickets in advance as they tend to sell out rapidly.

For more information and ticket reservations, visit the official website: https://www.ghibli-museum.jp/en/ .

Ticket Prices:

• Adults (19+): 1000 yen
• Teenagers (13-18): 700 yen
• Children (7-12): 400 yen
• Young Children (4-6): 100 yen
• Children (3 and under): Free

Opening Hours:

• Weekdays: 10:00-17:00
• Saturdays, Sundays, and Holidays: 10:00-19:00

5. Shibuya Tokyo Anime Center

The Tokyo Anime Center is a venue hosting various anime exhibitions, pop-up shops, and events. However, it’s not limited to anime alone; manga, video games, and various other digital media are also celebrated here. The exhibition area offers a blend of real and virtual reality experiences, providing visitors with an immersive animation experience. Navigating through the building, visitors can explore exhibitions, browse pop-up shops, and enjoy the cafe, all within a span of two hours.

Ticket prices vary depending on the exhibit.

Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Last entry to the exhibit is at 7:30 PM).

6. Real-Life Locations Featured in Anime: Stairs to Suga Shrine Yotsuya ( Your Name ), Asakusa ( Demon Slayer ), Shibuya Crossing ( Tokyo Revengers , Tokyo Ghoul )

These locations, among others, are renowned as popular real-life anime spots. They’re the very places depicted in different anime series that have captured the imagination of viewers, transforming them into must-visit destinations. While these are just a few notable examples, there’s a multitude of other places waiting to be explored from your favorite anime, offering a glimpse into the true essence of your beloved movies or shows.

7. EJ Anime Theater Shinjuku

Entertainment Japan Anime Theater is a unique fusion of movie theatre and café, where the café offerings typically complement the exhibitions showcased in the theatres. Focused on anime and various other forms of Japanese entertainment, this venue boasts an ever-changing theme and exhibit. This allows visitors to return time and again, experiencing different films and enjoying a variety of culinary delights.

• General: 1,900 yen
• University Student: 1,500 yen
• High School, Junior High, Elementary, and infant: 1,000 yen
• Under 3: Free

8. Jump Shop

Credit: Jump Shop Yokohama

With multiple locations across Tokyo, Jump Shop stands as a must-visit destination for enthusiasts of Shonen Jump. Boasting three prominent outlets in Tokyo – the Tokyo Skytree, Tokyo Dome, and Tokyo Station – in addition to supplementary shops scattered throughout nearby cities, Jump Shop offers an extensive array of merchandise. From beloved titles such as Naruto, One Piece, My Hero Academia, and Jujutsu Kaisen, to an array of other offerings, including clothing, figurines, plush toys, and even unique selections of manga manuscripts and costume pieces, there’s something for every fan.

Whether you’re wandering through the vibrant streets of Shibuya, exploring the cultural riches of Chiyoda City and Bunkyo City, or venturing further afield to Yokohama, Itabashi, or Nagoya, a visit to Jump Shop is an essential part of any otaku’s journey through Tokyo and beyond.

9. Sofmap Amusement

Credit: Sofmap Official Website

This shop, located in Akihabara, serves as a popular destination for anime gamers seeking merchandise. Sofmap offers both new and used games at great deals, with its store layout cleverly organized by game company and specialty across multiple floors. It’s a veritable wonderland for gaming enthusiasts, housing a diverse range of games, anime merchandise, and even idol merchandise on its top floor.

Whether you’re in search of PC, PlayStation, TV, Mobile, Switch, or any other gaming platform, Sofmap is sure to cater to every gaming need. For avid fans exploring otaku attractions in Tokyo, Sofmap is a must-visit destination.

10. Ikebukuro

Credit: Otaku in Tokyo

Ikebukuro is another gem for anime, manga, and video game fans. With stores like Animate, Mandarake, KBooks, and Gamers Ikebukuro, this city is a hotspot for all otakus. However, there is even more within the city for people to see.

Lashinbang isn’t a huge franchise store, so when you’re in Ikebukuro, you have to see it. This shop sells everything from cosplay, Nendoroid, keychains, posters, and other random unique trinkets. They additionally sell DVDs and CDs for original anime and video games.

Otome Road is another spot lined with different shops with anime, manga, and game content. What’s unique about Otome Road, though, is how it is a popular spot for women otakus. The most popular selling items are manga and merchandise that are particularly loved by women, the shoujo, doujinshi, and josei genres. This doesn’t mean that’s all that’s on Otome Road; there are more novelty shops with cosplay and merchandise for everyone to see.

11. Animate

Animate is a staple shop for finding everything anime-, manga-, and game-related. It is another store with multiple floors all dedicated to something unique, making the shopping experience fun and organized. The Animate shop in Ikebukuro was the first of many established all throughout Japan, and even spreading out into Hong Kong, Korea, Taiwan, Shanghai, and Thailand.

A great thing about Animate is the fact that it sells magazines, books, manga, and more in its original language and also in English. This shop has such a wide variety of items from electronics to art supplies, and everything otaku-centred in between. There are also different events put on in the store, like pop-up shops to attract fans of different animes, mangas, and games.

12. Mugiwara Store

Credit: Mugiwara Store

If you’re a fan of One Piece, then this is the store for you. Wholly dedicated to One Piece, the Mugiwara Store sells everything Straw Hat fans could imagine. From stickers, clothes, cups, keychains, and more, this store is all about giving you the One Piece experience. The entire left side of the store, once you walk in, is lined with gachapon machines, allowing you to pull the lever to get even more merchandise. There is also a section for manga, with limited edition and brand-new pieces for sale.

This main shop is located in Shibuya, with other branches in Ikebukuro, Nagoya, Abeno, Umeda, Fukuoka, and Kumamoto.

13. Tokyo Character Street

Credit: Tokyo Character Street

Found within Tokyo Station is a row of stores featuring various Japanese characters from anime, video games, TV shows, and more. With 26 shops showcasing a wide array of characters, you can never be bored exploring Tokyo Character Street. Some of the featured characters and shops on this street include Pokemon, Studio Ghibli, Doraemon, and more. Along with different characters come various collectables to discover, and you may even stumble upon some new shows and characters along the way. It’s a vibrant hub for otaku attractions in Tokyo, offering endless delights for enthusiasts.

14. Super Potato

Credit: Up in the Nusair

For enthusiasts of all things vintage, Super Potato is a retro video game shop that also boasts an old-school arcade. Another gem in Akihabara, this shop offers a treasure trove of 80s and 90s video games and merchandise. With a special focus on Nintendo, the third and fourth floors house an extensive collection of gaming equipment, games, merchandise, and even soundtrack CDs. The fifth floor is where you can indulge in the vintage arcade experience, with a diverse selection of games available to play. It’s a must-visit destination for those seeking otaku attractions in Tokyo, offering a nostalgic journey through gaming history.

15. Surugaya

Credits: Sugoii Japan

Surugaya is another treasure trove franchise where you can find anything and everything anime, manga, and video game-related. The interesting thing about Surugaya is that it is a second-hand store, meaning that everything is used. You can find newer and more vintage items, depending on your preference, and visiting different locations ensures you won’t see the same things twice. There is always something different and cool to discover and collect, ranging so vastly that you’re sure to find something unique. You can find Surugaya locations in Shinjuku, Sotokanda, Nagoya, Kyoto, and more.

Exploring Otaku Attractions in Tokyo

With all of these spots and more, your time in Tokyo will be filled with all the otaku entertainment you can find. Whether you’re staying for a week, a month, or longer, there are so many places to go and things to see relating to anime/manga and video games in Tokyo. It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for anime shops, merchandise, exhibits, games, or food, Tokyo has it all. Come visit the hub of all things otaku in Tokyo and live out your favourite anime.

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10 Best Spots in Tokyo for Anime and Manga Lovers

Must-Visit Manga and Anime Places in Japan

Anime and Manga are big parts of modern Japanese culture today. From Pokemon to Studio Ghibli, numbers of comics, animations, games and its own characters attract fans all around the world.

If you are a manga/anime lover travelling to Japan, you should definitely visit manga and anime places in Japan, especially, there are many of them in Tokyo.

Not only the Mecca of Otaku culture, Akihabara, there are several more spots related to manga and anime in Tokyo including shops, museums cafes and other sites.

Today, I’d like to introduce 10 best spots in Tokyo which are strongly related to famous Japanese Anime and Mange and fans would definitely fall in love.

And if you would like to visit them, some of ticket booking links are available, too!

*Please note that this article contains affiliate links.

1. Ghibli Museum

Studio Ghibli is the most famous animation film studio in Japan, which released numbers of award winning films, such as “My Neighbour Totoro”, “Princess Mononoke” and “Spirited Away” along with adorable anime characters. The Ghibli Museum is one and only museum showcasing the work and history of Studio Ghibli and Hayao Miyazaki. The museum is located in Mitaka, Tokyo, and can be accessed within 30 mins from Shinjuku Station.

Visitors must purchase tickets in advance which can be booked online. The last minute booking is usually hard to make as it’s pretty popular and only limited number of visitors can enter at once. So make sure to book your tickets in advance or some website provide last minute booking service if you haven’t got enough time.

▶ How to Buy Tickets to Ghibli Museum

For more Ghibli spots in Tokyo, check this article: List of Ghibli Spots in Tokyo .

2. Fujiko·F·Fujio Museum

Fujiko F Fujio is the creator of the long-beloved Japanese manga/animation, DORAEMON, and his museum is located in Kawasaki, just outside of Tokyo. Fujiko F Fujio Museum a.k.a. DORAEMON Museum showcases numbers of precious works of Fujiko, mainly DORAEMON and the original artworks and short films. Visitors can also learn the history of animation created by Fujiko F Fujio. English guide is also available.

The museum can be entered only with an advance reservation, so make sure to purchase tickets in beforehand.

▶︎Book your tickets in advance to Fujiko F Fujio Museum!

3. pokemon center tokyo dx.

Pokemon has been one of the most popular things on the planet for a couple of decades. It’s still pretty fresh in our memories that the whole world had gone crazy about Pokemon Go lately.

Pokemon Center is an official Pokemon store offering games and merchandise which every Pokemon fans would wish for. There are currently 14 Pokemon Center in Japan including five in Tokyo. The biggest Pokemon center, Pokemon Center TOKYO DX has opened in Nihonbashi, Tokyo with their first permanent Pokemon Cafe.

More info ▶ Pokemon Cafe Tokyo : “Permanent” Pokemon-Themed Cafe

Related Articles  ▶ Pokemon Centers & Stores in Tokyo ▶ Pokemon Centers & Stores in Osaka and Kyoto

4. Akihabara

One of most popular districts in Tokyo, Akihabara is known as the electric town selling a wide range of electronic products, and also famous for being the center of Japanese geek culture. They say anything related to Otaku culture can be found in Akihabara such as Anime, Gaming, Manga, figures, underground idols,etc. Stores like Mandarake and Animate are hugely popular as a wide variety of product range and many rare items can be found.

More info ▶ Akihabara: Best Things to Do 

Join a local guide tour “ Anime and Gaming Adventure Tour in Akihabara ” by Magical Trip to see the best highlights of Akihabara in a half-day! Explore the deep world of game and anime culture of Akihabara, and visit one of the famous Maid Cafes!

5. Nakano Broadway

Maybe it’s lesser known among foreigners, but just like Akihabara, Nakano is a popular area in Tokyo among Otaku and underground sub culture lovers. Nakano Broadway is a main hub of the area, which is a large shopping complex which houses numbers of shops including the famous Manga store, Mandarake, offering manga and anime related items.

If you have already been to Akihabara, and could not get enough, Nakano Broadway is definitely your next stop. Nakano area is not far from Shinjuku area, only a few stops by train from JR Shinjuku Station.

More info ▶ Nakano Broadway: Another Mecca for Japanese Pop and Sub Cultures

6. Nintendo TOKYO

Japan’s very first official Nintendo store, Nintendo TOKYO has opened at the new Shibuya PARCO in 2019 winter. The shop offers a wide range of Nintendo products including games and limited merchandise. Visitors can enjoy shopping many products featuring popular Nintendo game characters including Super Mario, Splatoon, Zelda and Animal Crossing. It’s located right next to the new Pokemon Center, which is also a huge attraction for Japanese game fans.

▶︎Check out things to buy at Nintendo Store Tokyo!

7. odaiba gundam.

Gundam is one of most popular animations in Japanese history, which originally started its broadcast nearly 40 years ago.The gigantic statue of Gundam has been standing in front of DiverCity Tokyo as a symbol of Odaiba area. The current statue is a second model which is replaced in 2017, called Unicorn Gundam. Next to the statue, there is a Gundam themed cafe offering special food and beverage in Gundam theme.

More info ▶ Odaiba: Best Things to Do

8. Tokyo Anime Center

Tokyo Anime Center is a facility that was created to promote Japanese anime culture and provide new experience through the real and virtual contents. It used to be located in Akihabara, and now it’s relocated to Shibuya MODI 2F.

There is an exhibit space holding limited-time exhibitions through the year as well as a store dealing with anime merchandise including exhibit-related products and original products. Various special events are also held at the site including talk shows, work shops and lectures by producers, creators and voice actors.

Official Website: https://tokyoanimecenter.jp/

9. Sanrio Puroland

Hello Kitty, Rilakkuma, Pompompurin, etc.. Sanrio has created numbers of characters beloved in Japan and abroad. Sanrio Puroland is their one and only amusement park where visitors can enjoy themed attractions, games, shows, shops and restaurants.

Several seasonal events are held through the year such as Halloweens and Christmas and you can find your favourite characters in special costumes as well as limited goods. It’s an indoor amusement park which visitors can enjoy even on rainy days.

▶︎Book tickets to Sanrio Puroland!

10. tokyo disney resort.

When we talk about animations, we can not just ignore the biggest animation studio in the whole world. Tokyo has two Disney themed parks: Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea which are located next to each other in Tokyo Disney Resort.

Even if you are not fan of animation or Disney production, the park is absolutely entertaining. Numbers of themed attractions from roller coasters to kids-friendly rides, shops and restaurants are located in the spacey parks, and special events and shows are hosted through the year.

Buy Tickets Online ▶︎Book your tickets to Tokyo Disneyland and Sea!

We’ve compiled a list of spots for anime fans in Japan, from real-world locations featured in anime, to stores selling limited edition merchandise, and anime-themed museums: 10 Best Anime Spots in Japan . We hope you find this guide useful.

How did you enjoy the article? If you are interested into Japanese animation/manga/gaming culture, you may like these articles, too!

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▼ Editor’s Picks ▼

"The world is my oyster" A globetrotter 🌎 and hammock lover 🌞 who loves taking adventures to fuel wanderlust. Born and raised in Japan, I have lived and explored countries around the world. As a resident of Japan and based on my travel experience, I'd love to share my knowledge and tips for travelling Japan with my readers. I hope my story will help you plan your trip and have a great time in Japan 🌈

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14 Locations in Japan You Must Visit If You're An Anime Fan

If you give an anime fan a free plane ticket to anywhere in the world, chances are they will end up in Japan. Japan is the birthplace of anime, manga, and video games, and hosts a variety of awesome locations you have to see if you're an anime lover. Western anime fans may not be familiar with the country, but have no fear! Compiled here are some must-see attractions for any anime fan visiting the Land of the Rising Sun. 

There's so many great anime tourist locations to visit that it can be overwhelming for any first-timers. They may be overwhelmed with questions like, which anime store has the best selections of anime? Are there museums about manga and the history of animation? Where is the anime theme park? If you're afraid of wasting your time in Japan on wild goose chases, don't worry - this list of famous anime destinations in Japan will have you covered. Check out the awesome attractions below and vote up the locations that no anime fan should miss in Japan. 

Tokyo Anime Center

Links: Official Website  (in Japanese) / TripAdvisor

About:  The Tokyo Anime Center is the perfect place for tourists to indulge in their love of anime because it was designed with that mind. Located on the fourth floor of the Akihabara UDX building near JR Akihabara Station, the Tokyo Anime Center provides anime information and entertainment for foreigners and Japanese residents.

It regularly hosts live radio interviews with anime creators and voice actors, and holds events like autograph signings. 

Links: GoTokyo  / TripAdvisor

About: Akihabara goes by many names: “Electric City,” “Electric Town,” “Akiba.” For many anime fans dreaming of flying to Japan, Akihabara is simply known to them as the ultimate otaku destination. Akihabara is often characterized as the embodiment of anime culture and for very good reason. An insane amount of electronic shops and otaku-oriented venues are located here, welcoming you with its big and loud anime visuals.

After buying all the anime and manga you can handle, you can unwind with a delightful meal at the various maid cafes and be treated like royalty, or simply enjoy a nice musical performance at AKB48's music theater. 

J-World Tokyo

• Dennis Amith

Links:  Official Website  / Ticketing

About: J-World Tokyo is like a small-scale Disney World of  Shonen Jump anime characters. The indoor amusement park in Ikebukuro’s Sunshine City celebrates the biggest anime action franchises from the magazine like  One Piece , Hunter X Hunter , and  Dragon Ball Z . It's worth the price of admission for the amazing atmosphere alone. 

You'll marvel at the real-life recreation of the Going Merry from One Piece , or the ninja ramen shop from Naruto . Any Toonami fan will jump for joy for thevisiting the J-World Tokyo amusement park and participating in all the fun activities based on their favorite show. 

Tokyo Character Street

Links:  GoTokyo

About:  Anyone eager to spend their hard-earned money on anime merchandise will want to take their wallets to the Tokyo Character Street. The underground shopping street right below Tokyo Station features numerous item shops dedicated to the biggest anime and gaming franchises in Japan.

There's the Studio Ghibli Official Shop, Hello Kitty Shop, Rilakkuma Store, the Pretty Cure   Shop, and so much more.

• Christian Kaden

Links:  Official Website

About: There's nothing more anime than partaking in a nice, warm dip in a hot spring. If you want a hot spring episode of your very own, visit the Dogo Onsen in Ehime Prefecture. Dogo Onsen's popularity with the locals and tourists surged once the critically acclaimed Studio Ghibli film, Spirited Away , used the place as inspiration for Yubaba’s bathhouse.

You won't find any river gods or witches at Dogo Onsen, but you will find a rejuvenating experience that will refresh your mind and spirit. Any fan can indulge in a warm bath to rejuvenate the body. 

Kyoto International Manga Museum

About:  Any anime fan will be able to appreciate the the International Manga Museum in Kyoto. The facility strives to preserve, study, and research the culture of manga throughout history. You'll see heaps upon heaps of all kinds of different manga, exhibitions about influential manga artists, and seminars and workshops about manga. 

Asagaya Anime Street

• digtokyotours

Links: Official Website (in Japanese) / TripAdvisor

About:  With Asagaya surrounded by many famous anime studios such as A-1 Pictures, Madhouse, and Production I.G, it makes sense to create an otaku paradise at the heart of anime culture. While it still has a way to go in catching up with Akihabara, Asagaya Anime Street is still worth visiting for its anime shops, theme cafés, and original character goods. 

Suginami Animation Museum

• djtiffany_family

Links: Official Website

About:  Anime fans who are interested in the history and the making of anime should definitely visit the Suginami Animation Museum. There are astonishing exhibits all about animation, dubbing, and the future of anime.

The museum also boasts an anime library, a theater, and interactive workshops. 

Links: TripAdvisor

About: Otome Road (AKA Maiden Road) has shopping centers filled with anime, manga, magazines, and novels that are directed toward a female audience. Most apparent are the shops and restaurants featuring yaoi, or Boy's Love, merchandise, to the point where Otome Road is often nicknamed “Fujoshi Street.” 

Otome Road's popularity skyrocketed in 2005, thanks to the film  Densha Otoko . The movie portrays Otome Road as a female otaku's dream. 

Pokemon Mega Center Tokyo

• LAKU@必然8お-13

About: When you go to the Pokémon Mega Center Tokyo store, you're going to buy lots and lots of Pokémon merchandise. Why? Because you won't be able to help it. The Mega Center doesn't just have typical Pokémon  stuff like the GameBoy games and console spinoffs. No, no - the Mega Center has exclusive, one-of-a-kind items that can only be found in Japan. Pikachu-themed jelly drinks, noodles, curry, and matcha cookies are just the tip of the iceberg.

There are trading cards, key chains, rice bowls, shirts, socks, sponges, and so much more. It's  Pokémon heaven and a definite must-see for anime fans. 

Washinomiya Shrine

• WikiMedia Commons

About:  Lucky Star fans looking for a fun way to spend their New Years in Japan will want to check out the Washinomiya Shrine in the Saitama Prefecture. Washinomiya is the birthplace of the Hiiragi sisters, Tsukasa and Kagami, and features them working as Shrine Maidens in the anime.

Thanks to Lucky Star's popularity, Washinomiya is one of the hottest spot for anime tourisim in Japan, as over 100,000 people visit the shrine to pray, hang up their New Year wishes, and buy otaku goodies. 

Gundam Base Tokyo

Links:  Official Website  (in Japanese) / TripAdvisor

About: Formerly the Gundam Front Tokyo, the Gundam Base Tokyo serves as a museum and store for the legendary  Mobile Gundam  franchise in Japan.  Gundam  fans will be in mecha heaven as they explore the rich anime history that dates all the way back to 1979. All the merchandise and goodies are available to purchase, but what makes the Gundam Base Tokyo worth the trip is the grand selection of  Gundam  model kits.

You'll not only be able to assemble them in the store, but also be able to see how they're made. If you get hungry, you can stop by the café and enjoy some  Gundam- themed food and drinks. 

Toyosato Elementary School

Links:  Official Website  (Japanese) / TripAdvisor

About: Despite airing over eight years ago, the K-ON anime fandom is still going strong. While it's no Season 3, visiting the real-life school that inspired the anime is the next best thing. Toyosato Elementary School is a popular spot for cosplay photo shoots and celebrating anime birthdays of the girls.

In case you were wondering, yes, the school stairs are still decorated with small statues of turtles, as seen in the anime. 

Yoshihiro Yonezawa Memorial Library Of Manga And Subcultures

About:  It goes without saying that Japan values its manga industry, but you don't often hear the names of the people who helped legitimize the art form. That's why visiting the Yoshihiro Yonezawa Memorial Library of Manga and Subcultures at Tokyo's Meiji University should be a high priority for history lovers and manga enthusiasts.

The library features the manga collection of Yoshihiro Yonezawa, a manga critic, author, and co-founder of Comiket. He was known for filling houses with manga  to the point where he would just buy a new home if he ran out of room. This was a process he repeated several times. Yonezawa's collection features a wide arrange of books that are not normally saved, such as throwaway manga from vending machines. Of course, his collection boasts famous works like the 1956  Tetsujin 28-go manga ( Gigantor ), the first robot manga in Japan.   

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Art & Culture Movies & TV

10 Real-life Anime Locations in Tokyo

From the streets to the screens, then to the streets again

March 18, 2022 Updated On February 8, 2023

Art often imitates life, so naturally, many books, films, manga and anime are set in real places all across Japan. Perhaps most iconic of all, Japan’s capital is popping up in countless manga and anime. These real-life locations in Tokyo have in turn become like anime pilgrimage sites for dedicated fans. We selected some of the most prominent ones that even a casual anime viewer will be excited to recognize.

Editorial credit: Tantowi Gilang / Shutterstock.com

1. Your Name: Suga Shrine, Yotsuya

This seemingly random set of stairs, leading up to Tokyo’s Suga Shrine, has become one of the most sought-out tourism spots in Tokyo. This is thanks to it being the setting for the impactful final scene in Makoto Shinkai’s Your Name. 

While the story takes us to many distinct locations across Japan’s capital, including Shinjuku’s Yunika Vision and The National Art Center in Roppongi, it’s this quiet set of stairs with their red railing that has become iconic in the eyes of fans.

The stairs are found in Yotsuya, but Shinkai certainly took some artistic liberties for his film. The view beyond Taki and Mitsuha is grander, with part of the Tokyo skyline in the distance. In real life, the background is less impactful, but the fact that this beautiful moment from Your Name can be recreated is certainly special.

Kisho (Weather) Shrine

2. Weathering With You: Koenji Hikawa Shrine, Koenji

Shinkai’s follow-up to Your Name was Weathering With You ; another gorgeously animated film packed with distinct Tokyo locations. But the location most thematically significant to the film has to be Koenji Hikawa Shrine.

The Kisho (Weather) Shrine is a rare Shinto shrine dedicated to the weather. It was originally built by the Army Weather Department in 1944, but is now located at Koenji Hikawa Shrine. Famous features include the small sandal-shaped wooden plaques for visitors to write wishes on known as Geta Ema.

In Weathering With You , we get a close-up shot of some of these Geta Ema. Visitors to the real shrine can recreate this scene by reading the plaques and even writing their own.

Takeshita Street. Editorial credit: Torjrtrx / Shutterstock.com

3. Jujutsu Kaisen: Harajuku

In an early chapter of Gege Akutami’s Jujutsu Kaisen , after protagonist Yuji is invited to join the Tokyo Prefectural Jujutsu High School, we meet another new student: Nobara Kugisaki. When they arrive in Tokyo’s iconic Harajuku neighborhood, Yuji and Nobara, who both hail from Japan’s countryside, promptly lose their minds with excitement.

This is a relatable feeling for anyone who has been to Harajuku. The sweet foods, the colors and the music spilling out into the streets make for a very unique Tokyo experience, especially for tourists. Seeing these two explode with excitement in the manga (and in the anime) certainly captures the energy many of us express when stepping out of Harajuku Station and onto Takeshita Street for the first time.

Tokyo Station

4. Haikyu!!: Tokyo Station

Haruichi Furudate’s Haikyu!!  manga is set in Miyagi Prefecture, but the Karasuno team also travels to Tokyo for tournaments. And, when they do we get shots of the iconic Tokyo Station building. The station is a central travel hub so it has also made small cameos in other anime, such as the aforementioned  Your Name.

Shibuya Crossing. Editorial credit: supawat bursuk / Shutterstock.com

5. Tokyo Revengers: Shibuya

Given its title, it’s no surprise that Ken Wakui’s  Tokyo Revengers  manga and the subsequent anime feature many Tokyo locations. Most of them can be found in Shibuya. In fact, Shibuya often feels like a character in its own right.

It’s the territory that the Tokyo Manji Gang (abbreviated as Toman) controls. We often see scenes at Shibuya Station and the gang also cherishes a photo taken in the middle of the Shibuya Scramble Crossing with the 109 building in the background.

Shinjuku. Editorial credit: PhakornS / Shutterstock.com

6. Tokyo Ghoul: Shinjuku

As with many other Tokyo-based manga and anime, prominent Tokyo locales feature in Tokyo Ghoul such as the S hibuya Scramble Crossing and Tokyo Skytree. What it does best, though, is recreating the feel and aesthetics of Shinjuku’s alleys and yokocho nightlife. In the manga, Shinjuku is simply known as the 4th Ward and Sui Ishida does a wonderful job of rendering the narrowness and claustrophobia, as well as the visual chaos of these neon-lit streets.

Radio Kaikan. Editorial credit: InfantryDavid / Shutterstock.com

7. Steins;Gate: Radio Kaikan, Akihabara

Akihabara is a must-visit for any Japanese pop culture fan just for the sheer number of anime and manga shops. But for  Steins;Gate fans it has an extra layer of meaning. Many Akihabara locations, big and small, appear in the anime — such as Akihabara Station and the luxurious Tokyo Times Tower apartment building — but Radio Kaikan is easily the most recognizable and iconic. In the anime, the time machine crashes into the top of the building. In real life, the building looks almost identical, especially the bold red and yellow sign above the front door.

8. Demon Slayer: Asakusa

Demon Slayer  has become one of the most famous anime in the world. And while its story begins in the mountains of Taisho-era Japan, we are soon transported to Tokyo’s Asakusa district. This is where Tanjiro first comes face-to-face with Muzan, the main antagonist of the series.

Seeing 1920s Asakusa brought to life in such a lavishly animated show is a real treat for the eyes. Visiting Asakusa in real life today demonstrates how much has changed and how much has stayed the same.

Kanda Myojin Shrine. Editorial credit: Tokyo Visionary Room / Shutterstock.com

9. Love Live: Kanda Myojin Shrine, Chiyoda

Found in Chiyoda Ward and accessible on foot from Akihabara Station, Kanda Myojin Shrine has become something of a pilgrimage site for fans of Love Live . The shrine features prominently in the anime and the shrine’s real-life counterpart proudly sells merchandize to visiting fans of the show.

Kanda Myojin Shrine houses two of the gods of fortune, so it’s also a spot for aspiring entrepreneurs to come and pray for financial success.

Old Chichibu Bridge

10. Anohana: Chichibu City, Saitama

Technically not Tokyo, but still Greater Tokyo, the beloved cult favorite anime Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day is set in  Chichibu City , Saitama, a quiet area on the northwestern edge of Tokyo. Across 11 episodes, we become intimately familiar with the city and its landmarks.

The most prominent of these landmarks is Old Chichibu Bridge, a pedestrian bridge that crosses the Arakawa River. The bridge appeared in posters and trailers, as well as the anime’s opening credits.

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13 Iconic Anime Locations to Add to Your Japan Itinerary — The Ultimate Anime Pilgrimage Guide

We found new hidden gems in Japan thanks to Anime !

For all the weebs and otakus out there, I gotchu! As an avid anime lover, Japan is always my go-to when I have the chance to travel. Other than buying merch or taking part in anime events, you can actually visit real-life locations that were used as settings for anime works. While there is an abundance of them, this guide covers some of my favourites!

If you love Japan, you might find some hidden gems, and if you love anime as well, this is a sign to embark on an anime pilgrimage!

Pre-trip Checklist  Entering Japan

With Japan’s borders recently opened to Singaporean travellers, here are some quick tips to make your life easier ✈️:

1) Register on  Japan Web in advance to skip the long airport queue like skipping anime openings. 2) Digital Vaccination Certificate via  Notarise — minimum of 3 vaccination doses to skip PCR test 3) Bring sufficient masks — most attractions and buildings require you to wear one 4) Get Travel Insurance with Covid-19 coverage — optional but recommended

1) Suga Shrine Staircase (Tokyo) — Your Name

“Haven’t we… Have I met you somewhere before?” — Nope, I exist in the real world unlike you .

The famous blockbuster movie, Your Name , by Makoto Shinkai, ends with an emotional and touching ending scene where the main characters Taki and Mitsuha meet after the meteor incident on this legendary staircase leading to Suga Shrine in Yotsuya.

Alight at Yotsuya Station, make your way through the serene neighbourhood and you will be greeted with this nostalgic sight. While no Taki/ Mitsuhas were found 😔, it’s common to find visitors taking photos at this iconic spot to recreate the very scene.

How to get there: Alight at Yotsuya Sanchome station Address:  Japan, 160-0018 Tokyo, Shinjuku City, Sugacho, ５

2) Lake Motosu (Yamanaka) — Yuru Camp

Photo credits (real-life image): animetourism88.com

If there is one image that symbolises the heartwarming anime Yuru Camp , it is this very picture of Lake Motosu! To summarise, Yuru Camp is about the protagonist, Rin, and her friends travelling across various campsites in Japan.

When visiting Mt Fuji, it is paramount to visit the Five Fuji Lakes as they offer some of the best views and picture spots for Mt Fuji. Did you know that Lake Motosu is on the back of the ¥1,000 note 🗻? *Pro tip: Check the 24-hour live streams of Mt Fuji to see if it’s worth the trip as it’s often hiding behind clouds!

Photo credits: sightseeandsushi.com

If you’d like to camp here like Rin and her pals, you could head to Koan Camping Ground to spend a night there and enjoy the serene and peaceful atmosphere while gazing at the stars amidst a ¥1,000 view.

Address: 2926 Nakanokura, Minobu, Minamikoma District, Yamanashi 409-3104, Japan

*Pro-tip: The Mt Fuji region isn’t the most accessible by public transport, so rent a car from Tokyo to get around easily!

3) Shirakawago (Takayama) — Higurashi When They Cry

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is actually the inspiration for Hinamizawa, the village where the horror/murder mystery franchise, Higurashi When They Cry , is set. Far from being cursed (hopefully), this beautiful village features locations such as the Hachiman Shrine and Wada House.

The idyllic traditional village is beautiful across all seasons with its unique building style known as gasshō-zukuri against the backdrop of mountains and foliage. Personally, I like the snowy white backdrop most so I will definitely be visiting again in winter ☃️!

How to get there:  From Takayama Station, take the Nohi express bus and alight at Shirakawa-go Bus Terminal Address: Ogimachi, Shirakawa, Ono District, Gifu 501-5627, Japan

*Pro-tip: The 3 or 5-Day Shoryudo Highway Bus Pass gives you unlimited rides on highway buses between Takayama and Shirakawa-go, as well as other areas like Matsumoto, Nagoya, Kanazawa, and more.

4) Dogo Onsen (Ehime) — Spirited Away

Photo credits: japan-guide.com

Tucked in Ehime Prefecture, Dogo Onsen Honkan is one of the must-visit anime locations in northwest Shikoku. It’s the inspiration for Aburaya, the bathhouse owned by Yubaba, the witch in Spirited Away . Aside from its popularity because of the film, it’s also hailed as the oldest hot spring in Japan ♨️.

Photo credits: thejapantimes

Wash all your fatigue away as you marvel at the traditional yet aesthetic interior of this bath house. The best part is that it’s super affordable at ~$6 for a bath!

Entrance fee: From ~S$6/pax Opening hours: 6AM – 11PM How to get there: Alight at Dogo Onsen Station Address: 5-6 Dogoyunomachi, Matsuyama, Ehime 790-0842, Japan

5) Lake Shikaribetsu (Hokkaido) — Spirited Away

Photo credits: kawatabi-hokkaido.com

I’m sure every Spirited Away fan would remember the mysterious train station situated in the middle of a lake that extends across the horizon. Lake Shikaribetsu is famous for its train tracks spanning into the crystal-clear lake, looking as if it is straight out of a fairytale.

However, I don’t think I would be running in the icy cold Hokkaido waters barefooted just to be Chihiro 🥶.

How to get there: Rent a car from Chitose Airport as it is not very accessible by public transport Address: Kitaurimaku, Shikaoi, Kato District, Hokkaido 081-0344, Japan

Read also: 8-Day Hokkaido itinerary covering Lake Shikaribetsu

6) Yakushima (Kagoshima) — Princess Mononoke

The island of Yakushima  is home to a fairy-tale forest so magical that it inspired Hayao Miyazaki, the genius behind Studio Ghibli, to include it in his animated masterpiece, Princess Mononoke . It is famously known for yaku sugi  – some of the most ancient living trees on the planet.

The island also has an indigenous sub-species of deer called yakushika which is no wonder why the forest spirit in Princess Mononoke, also known as shishigami (deer god) or night-walker, is modelled after it 🦌!

How to get there: Take a 2-hour ferry ride from Kagoshima Address: Yakushima, Kumage District, Kagoshima, Japan

7) Kamakurakoko-Mae Station (Kanagawa)— Slam Dunk

Photo credits: zekkeijapan.com

How I wish my trip to work could have a view like this 😌. This railway crossing at Kamakurakokomae Station with its vast ocean views and clear blue skies was used as the model for a scene in the upbeat opening theme for  Slam Dunk , a classic sports anime that needs little introduction.

Being one of the first animes I watched with my family, it is one of the most nostalgic scenes for me!

How to get there: Alight at Kamakurakoko-Mae Station in Kanagawa Address: 1-chōme-1 Koshigoe, Kamakura, Kanagawa 248-0033, Japan

8) Oyama Dam (Hita City) — Attack on Titan

Photo credits: tabimaniajapan.com

The first installation of the project “ Attack on Titan in HITA” was constructing life-sized statues of the main characters Eren, Mikasa, and Armin in front of the 93-metres-tall Oyama Dam which served as the inspiration for Wall Maria. With the surrounding view cut off by this massive structure, it makes you feel like a little bird in a cage — maybe that’s what made Eren obsessed with the idea of freedom🦅.

This was also the famous scene of despair, where the Colossal Titan made its sudden appearance before breaking a hole in Wall Maria.

How to get there: Rent a car from Fukuoka Airport (from ~S$75/day) Address: Oyamamachi Nishioyama, Hita, Oita 877-0201, Japan

9) Akihabara (Tokyo) — Steins;Gate

Akihabara is a must-visit for any Japanese pop-culture fan simply because of the sheer number of anime and manga shops. Bonus points if you are a Steins;Gate  fan, as Akihabara is also the premise of this highly-rated series.

Akihabara Radio Kaikan

Akihabara Radio Kaikan is easily the most recognisable landmark in all the Steins;Gate. Both the beginning and end of the franchise happen in this very building, with key events such as the “murder” of Kurisu and the time machine crashing into the building.

You could also try the “intellectual’s drink” Dr Pepper, from one of the vending machines outside. Honestly, it just tastes like Coke to me 😅.

Opening hours: 10AM – 8PM Address: 1 Chome−15−16, Sotokanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 101-0021

Akihabara Station

There were many notable interactions and heart-wrenching scenes between main characters Okabe and Kurisu (Christina) in this area − her throwing a bottle of Dr Pepper before disappearing from view, and the both of them standing face to face.

Address: 1 Chome Sotokanda, Chiyoda City, Tokyo, Japan

10) Asakusa (Tokyo) — Demon Slayer

The premise of the 2018 hit, Demon Slayer , begins in the mountains of Taisho-era Japan. Still, we are soon transported to Tokyo’s Asakusa district where Tanjiro was sent on a mission to verify the rumours of a demon lurking around. After briefly sitting down for a bowl of udon, he caught a whiff of a strong demonic scent which led him to meet Muzan (insert Michael Jackson’s “heehee”), the main antagonist of the series in this crowded and lively street.

Although the town looks quite different compared to the past, tourists and locals donning their kimonos definitely add to the Taisho-era vibe amidst the ever-lively Nakamise Street and Sensoji Temple.

How to get there: Alight at Asakusa Station Address: 2 Chome-3-1 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan

11) Chichibu Bridge (Saitama) — Anohana

Photo credits (right): locobee.com

The beloved cult favourite anime  Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day  is set in Chichibu City, Saitama, a quiet area on the northwestern edge of Tokyo. Across 11 episodes, we become intimately familiar with the city, its landmarks and its characters 😢.

The most prominent of these landmarks is the Old Chichibu Bridge, a pedestrian bridge crossing the Arakawa River that appears in posters, trailers, and the anime’s opening credits.

How to get there: Alight at Onohara Station Address: 8-15 Kumaki, Chichibu, Saitama 368-8686

12) Yokohama (Kanagawa) — Bungo Stray Dogs

Almost the entirety of Bungo Stray Dogs is set in Yokohama , a port city with a mixture of modern and historic buildings.

Yokohama Chinatown

Featured in episode nine is Yokohama’s Chinatown, where Atsushi takes Kyouka out on a date! It’s also the largest Chinatown in Asia with over 200 Chinese-themed restaurants and shops selling delicious snacks and meals! 🤤

How to get there: Alight at Motomachi-Chukagai Station Address: Yamashitacho, Naka Ward, Yokohama, Kanagawa 231-0023

Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse

Photo credits: japantravel.com

Another location featured in Atsushi and Kyoukai’s date is the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse. This shopping centre is famous for its brick construction, small independent shops, and cafes which are great for taking a breather!

The warehouse is constantly hosting events across the seasons, such as a Christmas market in winter and a beach event in summer. Check out their website for the event schedule before heading there!

*Note: It is temporarily closed for renovation till Dec 2022

Address: 1 Chome-1 Shinko, Naka Ward, Yokohama, Kanagawa 231-0001

13) Fuji Q Highland (Yamanaka) — Naruto/Boruto

I was today-years-old when I realised Fuji Q Highland hosts a Naruto-themed theme park 🎢! Designed as a miniature replica of Konoha Village, you could pose with life-sized figurines of your favourite Naruto characters like playing chess with Shikamaru, and visit the Ichiraku Ramen shop for a bowl of Naruto’s iconic favourite ramen.

After exploring Naruto’s crib, check out the world-record-holding coasters nearby too 😱.

Entrance fee: ~S$43/pax or ~S$79 incl. 2-way transfer from Tokyo Opening hours: 9AM – 6PM Address: 5 Chome-6-1 Shinnishihara, Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi 403-0017, Japan

Read also: Fuji Q Highland Guide — The Best Roller Coasters Most Tourists Miss in Japan

Other anime spots worth checking out

Photo credits: tokyotokyo.jp

Here is a “ Taisho Era Secret ” if you’ve read until here! The Anime Tourism Association pushes out yearly 88-spots that include real-life anime locations, museums and even cosplay summits! Some of these locations have memorial stamps too which you could keep as a souvenir.

Photo credit: Studio Ghibli

For hardcore Studio Ghibli fans, you can also visit the world’s first Studio Ghibli Theme Park — featuring attractions based on popular films such as a 16m-tall, life-sized version of Howl’s Moving Castle 😍. Recently opened on 1 Nov 2022, Ghibli Park is located within the Expo 2005 Aichi Commemorative Park in Nagakute city near Nagoya.

If you’re travelling around Osaka, check out Donguri Kyowakoku store on the sixth floor of Shinsaibashi PARCO shopping mall (near Dotonbori!) and take pictures with Totoro or No-Face for free!

Getting around Japan

Travelling to these places hit close to my heart as they inspired some of my favourite animes and rekindled some of my childhood memories.

Even if you do not have a Toyota Trueno or swagger like Takumi, public transport gets you to most places within the city. But if you are exploring the rural or mountainous areas like Mt Fuji, renting a car gives you more access around the area.

Travelling by train across Japan can be quite the experience too with the JR Pass . Check out our JR Pass guide for tips on navigating and maximising it.

Looking for specific itineraries for any of these cities in Japan? Here are some that you might find useful:

Tokyo/ Mt Fuji: 7D6N Japan Itinerary Under S$1.5k — Road Trip from Tokyo to Mt. Fuji and Beyond Kansai region (Osaka, Kyoto): 7D Japan Itinerary Under S$1.3k — Osaka and Other Epic Cities in the Kansai Region Hokkaido: 8-Day Hokkaido Itinerary — Spring Road Trip Under S$1k

Share with us which of these anime locations you’d like to visit most in the comments below!

This post was brought to you by Klook .

Follow us on  Facebook ,  Instagram ,  YouTube , and  Telegram  for more travel inspiration!

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The ultimate otaku's guide to Tokyo: Exploring the heartbeat of anime culture

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August 2, 2023

If you've ever marveled at the vivid worlds and compelling narratives of anime, then you owe a bit of gratitude to Tokyo. This bustling metropolis has played a significant role in shaping anime culture, turning it into a global phenomenon.

Tokyo's Otaku culture – a term for people with consuming interests, particularly in anime and manga – has left its mark not just on Japanese history but on pop culture worldwide.

Tokyo, a city that breathes life into anime characters, has since become the top destination for Otaku worldwide. In the heart of the city, you'll find Akihabara, or 'Electric Town,' an area famous for its game centers, anime goods, and manga. It's a paradise for manga lovers where you can find everything, from vintage copies of classic series to the latest releases. Walking through its streets feels like stepping into a time machine, back to your favorite anime scenes.

If you've dreamed of immersing yourself in the worlds of your favorite characters, then a visit to Tokyo Big Sight, Japan's largest convention venue, is a must. Every year, it hosts Comiket, the world's biggest self-published comic fair.

For those who want to delve into the roots of anime, the Toei Oizumi Animation Studio provides a peek into its rich history. With temporary exhibitions of original drawings and short films, it's like a living tribute to anime's evolution. As an Otaku, you can recreate scenes from your favorite shows, hunt for rare anime-related goods in the Mandarake stores, and even join fellow fans in the city's vibrant Otaku districts. In Tokyo, anime and manga aren't just part of the city's culture; they're a way of life, a lens through which to explore the world.

So are you ready to hop on this Otaku adventure?

Anime's holy land: Akihabara

Welcome to Akihabara, the beating heart of Tokyo's Otaku culture, a paradise that seamlessly blends the worlds of anime, manga, and gaming.

Originally named after a fire-controlling deity to prevent the recurrence of a disastrous fire, Akihabara or "Electric Town" as it's fondly known, started as an electronics district post-World War II.

Over the years, it evolved, drawing in manga lovers, anime fans, and gaming enthusiasts and transforming into a vibrant Otaku district that's now a must-visit on any Otaku guide to Tokyo.

As you step out from Akihabara Station, you'll be greeted by buildings emblazoned with larger-than-life anime characters, inviting you into stores overflowing with anime merchandise. The Mandarake stores, an Otaku's paradise, have floors dedicated to everything from vintage manga and anime to cosplay costumes and trading cards. The ground floor is filled with all kinds of anime, manga, and gaming goods, while the second floor is a treasure trove of anime-related books and DVDs.

So whether you're looking to score some rare merchandise, hang out at a themed cafe, or simply soak up the vibrant anime culture, Akihabara is where the world of anime comes alive!

The magic of real-life anime locations

For anime fans, Tokyo offers a unique experience – the magic of visiting real-life locations that have been featured in popular anime series. The thrill of standing in the exact spot where your favorite characters once stood, of recreating iconic scenes – it's an Otaku's dream come true! From the hustle and bustle of Shibuya Crossing, immortalized in countless anime, to the towering heights of the Tokyo Skytree, these places have served as backdrops for many unforgettable anime moments. Visiting Tokyo in spring when the cherry blossoms are blooming will add even more wonder to visiting these classic locations!

Begin your adventure in Nerima City, widely recognized as the cradle of anime. It's conveniently situated a brief distance from Oizumi Gakuen Station. This area is home to numerous renowned anime studios, such as Toei Animation and Studio Gallop, marking it as a key point of interest. Akihabara, Tokyo's Electric Town, is another must-visit. Not only is it a mecca for anime merchandise, gaming shops, and arcade games, but it's also featured in countless anime and manga. Then there's the Radio Kaikan near Akihabara Station, which any fan of 'Steins; Gate' will recognize. It's a must-visit for fans, with nine floors of Otaku culture to explore.

The beauty of Tokyo is that it lets you walk in the footsteps of your beloved characters, bringing the world of anime to life right before your eyes.

Animation museums: Toei and Suginami

Uncover the rich tapestry of anime's evolution at the Toei Animation Museum, a place that every anime fan should visit at least once.

Nestled in Nerima ward, the birthplace of Japanese anime, this museum offers a deep dive into the enchanting world of Toei Animation, the studio that brought us iconic series like 'Sailor Moon' and 'Dragon Ball.'

With an array of temporary exhibitions showcasing original sketches and storyboard drawings, the museum offers a rare behind-the-scenes look into the art of anime. One of its highlights is the mini-theater, where you can catch screenings of short films – a treat for any anime enthusiast!

Your journey through anime's storied past wouldn't be complete without a visit to the Suginami Animation Museum. This place serves as a tribute to anime's role in Japanese history and pop culture. Here, you can explore everything from the anime production process to voice acting in the interactive exhibits. With its wide variety of displays, the museum brings anime to life for fans of all ages. The ground floor offers a series of exhibitions focused on the process of animation, while the second floor gives you a chance to try your hand at dubbing and digitizing animations.

So, whether you're an Otaku or just curious about anime culture, these museums offer a fascinating journey into the world of Japanese animation.

Manga and anime Shops: From Mandarake to Animate

Tokyo's anime culture isn't just about watching your favorite shows and movies - it's also about immersing yourself in a world filled with anime merchandise, books, trading cards, and plastic models. For Otakus, shopping is an adventure, and where better to embark on this journey than at the iconic Mandarake and Animate stores?

Mandarake, located within the labyrinthine mall of Nakano Broadway, is the ultimate destination for any Otaku. This is where you'll find everything from vintage manga and anime to rare collectibles.

Each floor is a treasure trove waiting to be explored. Whether you're looking for a favorite character's plastic model or hunting for those elusive trading cards, Mandarake has got you covered.

On the other hand, Animate is like a theme park for manga and anime fans. With its vast array of anime goods, ranging from popular anime characters' merchandise to the latest manga, Animate is a must-visit on any Otaku guide in Tokyo.

Another notable mention is the Jump Shop in Sunshine City, which caters to fans of the Shonen Jump series. Whether it's "One Piece," "Naruto," or "Dragon Ball," this is where you'll find an array of goodies to satisfy your fandom.

The Pokemon experience: Pokemon centers and cafes

If you're a Pokemon fan, Tokyo has a couple of Pokestops that you can't miss. Step into a world that brings your favorite game and anime to life at the Pokemon Center Mega Tokyo and Pokemon Center Tokyo DX. These stores are like a dreamland for any Pokemon lover, filled to the brim with all things Pokemon. From plush toys of your favorite characters to limited edition merchandise, these centers offer an immersive Pokemon experience that game and anime fans will adore.

First, let's visit Pokemon Center Mega Tokyo located in Sunshine City in Ikebukuro, a shopping center also home to many other Otaku-related stores.

This Pokemon Center is the largest in Japan, boasting a wide selection of Pokemon goods and even exclusive items you won't find anywhere else.

On the other hand, Pokemon Center Tokyo DX offers a shopping experience and a dining one. Adjacent to the store is the Pokemon Cafe, where you can enjoy meals and sweets inspired by the world of Pokemon. These meals aren't just delicious; they're also Instagram-worthy, making your dining experience all the more fun. And if you're lucky, you might just meet Pikachu during one of the live shows! So, if you're ready to catch 'em all, let's go on a Pokemon adventure like no other in Tokyo's vibrant Otaku districts.

After all, the world of Pokemon isn't just about battling and training - it's also about friendship, adventures, and creating unforgettable memories!

Dive into the worlds of Sailor Moon and Gundam

In the universe of anime and manga, Sailor Moon and Gundam hold iconic status, and in Tokyo, you'll find a few places that celebrate these legends in their full glory.

In Azabu Juban, where the original story of Sailor Moon was set, fans can explore the neighborhood and discover real-life locations that inspired many of the series' backdrops.

It's a heartwarming experience, particularly for those of us who grew up watching Usagi Tsukino's journey from a clumsy schoolgirl to the leader of the Sailor Soldiers!

Alternatively, the universe of Gundam can be explored at Gundam Base Tokyo, housed within the bustling DiverCity Tokyo Plaza shopping center.

This Gundam-themed park is home to a vast collection of Gundam plastic models, showcasing over 2,000 items ranging from the earliest versions to the latest, including some exclusive editions.

Visitors also get the opportunity to witness the life-sized Gundam statue, a monumental sight that leaves fans in awe. While the Gundam Cafe has unfortunately closed its doors, its spirit lives on, and the joy it brought to countless fans remains a crucial part of Tokyo's Otaku culture.

Nakano Broadway and Sunshine City: Shopping and indoor theme parks

Whether you're an Otaku hunting for hidden gems or just love the thrill of discovering unique merchandise, Tokyo has two spots you absolutely cannot miss - Nakano Broadway and Sunshine City.

Nakano Broadway in Nakano is a multi-story shopping complex known among anime and manga fans as a treasure trove of merchandise.

Here, you'll find the famous Mandarake stores, which house an incredible array of vintage anime and manga goods, alongside gaming shops and arcade games that will whisk you back into the nostalgic days of your favorite series.

Alternatively, the bustling Sunshine City in Ikebukuro is a microcosm of everything Tokyo has to offer. Apart from the shopping center teeming with a myriad of stores where you can find all your favorite characters' merchandise, Sunshine City also offers indoor theme park attractions. Amidst all these, one thing is certain - every corner of Nakano Broadway and Sunshine City is filled with a vibrant energy that encapsulates the spirit of Tokyo's Otaku culture.

Ghibli Museum and Doraemon Museum: A journey into iconic anime worlds

In the realm of Japanese anime, few studios have been as influential or beloved as Studio Ghibli. As we delve deeper into the Otaku culture, a visit to the enchanting Ghibli Museum is a must. Nestled in the heart of Mitaka, this museum is a homage to the creative genius of Studio Ghibli's animated films. It's more than a collection of merchandising; it's a magical universe that brings to life our favorite characters and the enchanting worlds they inhabit. From temporary exhibitions that dive into the making of the films to short films exclusively shown in the museum, the Ghibli Museum offers an intimate glimpse into the creativity and imagination that goes into every frame of a Ghibli film.

Not too far away in Kawasaki city, you'll find the Fujiko F. Fujio Museum, also affectionately known as the Doraemon Museum.

This museum is dedicated to the life and work of Fujiko F. Fujio, the mastermind behind one of Japan's most iconic anime characters - Doraemon.

Here, you can walk through life-sized Doraemon manga scenes and marvel at the original artwork. Whether you're a die-hard Otaku or just a fan of this friendly, gadget-wielding robotic cat from the future, the Doraemon Museum offers an immersive journey into the world of one of Japan's most beloved characters. With both these museums, you're not just observing from afar; you're stepping into real-life manifestations of iconic anime worlds.

Unique Otaku experiences: Maid cafes and Jump Shop

Tokyo's Otaku culture isn't just about animation studios and merchandise shops; it's also about unique experiences that let you dive headfirst into the world of your favorite anime. Take, for example, the charming world of Maid Cafes.

These aren't just ordinary cafes but fascinating corners of Otaku culture, where the staff dress up as maids and act as servants, offering a playful and surreal experience. As they serve you themed meals and engage in fun, friendly banter, it feels like you've stepped right into a lively anime scene.

Then there's Jump Shop, the retail store for all things related to Shueisha's "Jump" manga series. Whether you're a manga lover or just an Otaku curious about the latest trends, you're bound to lose track of time exploring the wide range of merchandise available here. From books, trading cards, clothing, and much more, every product here is a tribute to your favorite Jump characters.

A tour around Tokyo's anime landmarks

Tokyo Big Sight sits proudly as one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world of anime, housing the bi-annual Comiket, the world's largest fan-made manga market. The significance of this architectural marvel to Otaku culture is impossible to overstate. It's not just a place for buying and selling; it's a gathering spot for the community, a place where friends meet, exchange ideas, and deepen their shared passion.

This pyramid-like conference tower is more than a building; it's a testament to the growth and strength of anime culture.

Then we have Tokyo Skytree, Shibuya Crossing, and Radio Kaikan. Each one contributes uniquely to the cultural tapestry of anime.

Tokyo Skytree, the world's tallest tower, houses a treasure trove of anime merchandise within its shopping center.

Shibuya Crossing, possibly the world's most famous intersection, is regularly depicted in anime, reflecting the hustle and energy of Tokyo itself. Radio Kaikan in Akihabara, one of the original hubs for Otaku culture, is a microcosm of anime and manga culture with a range of specialized stores. Each landmark, in its unique way, anchors anime firmly in the real-world fabric of Tokyo, showing that anime is not just a genre but an integral part of Japanese history and culture.

Wrapping up this whirlwind Otaku guide through Tokyo, it's hard not to be swept up in the excitement. Anime and manga aren't just hobbies here, they are deeply ingrained in the vibrant threads that weave together the dynamic tapestry of this city. I can't help but feel giddy, imagining the thrill of each of you discovering Tokyo's rich Otaku culture for yourselves. Whether you're a casual viewer or a seasoned Otaku, Tokyo exerts a magnetic pull on anime fans that's unlike anywhere else.

A certain magic makes Tokyo not just a destination but an unforgettable journey filled with awe and adventure. My heart races in anticipation as I think of all the amazing experiences waiting for you. I truly hope this guide has ignited a spark of enthusiasm to light up your Tokyo adventure.

Remember, Tokyo isn't just a city but a living, breathing celebration of all things anime and manga. I can't wait for you to step into this real-life anime wonderland and create memories you'll treasure forever. Here's wishing you a fantastic trip! Enjoy every moment, and let your Otaku spirits fly high!

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Tokyo For Anime Lovers: Must-Visit Otaku Destinations

Table of Contents

Tokyo is a city that has captured the hearts of anime lovers around the world. As the birthplace of some of the most iconic anime series and characters, Tokyo is a mecca for otaku enthusiasts seeking to immerse themselves in the world of anime.

From bustling districts filled with anime merchandise to museums dedicated to the works of legendary anime directors, Tokyo has something for every anime lover.

With so many otaku destinations to choose from, it can be overwhelming for anime lovers to decide where to begin their journey. This article will provide a comprehensive guide to the must-visit otaku destinations in Tokyo, including the Akihabara and Ikebukuro districts, the Ghibli Museum, Nakano Broadway, Tokyo One Piece Tower, Pokemon Center Mega Tokyo, Tokyo Joypolis, and Shibuya District.

Whether you’re a seasoned anime fan or a newcomer to the world of anime, Tokyo’s otaku destinations are sure to captivate and inspire.

Key Takeaways

• Tokyo offers a variety of otaku destinations for anime lovers including Akihabara and Ikebukuro districts, Ghibli Museum, Nakano Broadway, Tokyo One Piece Tower, Pokemon Center Mega Tokyo, Tokyo Joypolis, and Shibuya District.
• Akihabara District is a renowned hub for anime and manga enthusiasts, featuring specialty stores, themed cafes, arcades, and iconic Sega arcade.
• Ghibli Museum showcases the works of renowned animation studio founded by Hayao Miyazaki, providing insight into the world of animation and featuring a replica of Catbus from My Neighbor Totoro.
• Nakano Broadway and Tokyo One Piece Tower offer unique shopping experiences full of anime and manga merchandise, antiques, and collectibles, while Tokyo Joypolis offers indoor theme park featuring virtual reality and interactive games, and Shibuya District offers commercial and entertainment hub for anime enthusiasts, featuring anime-related stores, arcades, and cafes.

Akihabara District

The Akihabara District in Tokyo, Japan is a renowned hub for anime and manga enthusiasts, offering a vast array of specialty stores, themed cafes, and arcades that cater to the otaku culture. It is a vibrant and lively neighborhood that has become a pilgrimage site for anime lovers from all over the world.

Akihabara’s main street, Chuo Dori, is lined with electronic and anime stores that sell everything from figurines, manga, and anime DVDs to cosplay costumes and collectibles. The district is also home to several multi-story shopping centers, such as Yodobashi Camera and Akihabara Radio Kaikan, where visitors can find a wide range of anime and manga merchandise.

Apart from shopping, Akihabara is also famous for its themed cafes and restaurants, where visitors can enjoy food and drinks while surrounded by their favorite anime characters. Some of the popular cafes include the Gundam Cafe, where customers can enjoy Gundam-themed food and drinks, and the Maid Cafe, where waitresses dressed in maid costumes provide a unique dining experience.

For those who love arcade games, Akihabara has several arcades such as the iconic Sega arcade, which offers a wide range of games, including popular ones such as ‘Taiko no Tatsujin’ and ‘Initial D.’ With so much to offer, it’s no wonder that Akihabara has become a must-visit destination for anime lovers.

Ghibli Museum

Located in Mitaka, the Ghibli Museum is a must-visit destination for anime lovers in Tokyo. The museum showcases the works of the renowned animation studio founded by Hayao Miyazaki, making it a noteworthy stop for animation enthusiasts. The museum features a variety of exhibits that provide an unparalleled insight into the world of animation.

From the history of animation to the creative process involved in bringing a character to life, visitors can learn about the different aspects of animation production. One of the highlights of the museum is the replica of the Catbus from My Neighbor Totoro, which visitors can climb aboard and explore.

The museum also has a theater that screens short films produced by Studio Ghibli that are exclusive to the museum. Visitors can also watch the making of documentary films that give an in-depth look at the production process involved in creating some of the studio’s most beloved films.

Overall, the Ghibli Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves anime and is interested in learning more about the creative process behind some of the most iconic animated films of our time.

Ikebukuro District

Ikebukuro District is a bustling hub of activity in which visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant culture of Tokyo. Known as the ‘Akihabara of the West,’Ikebukuro is a popular destination for anime lovers due to its numerous anime and manga shops, cosplay cafes, and themed restaurants.

One must-visit location in Ikebukuro is the Otome Road, a street lined with stores catering to female otaku. Here, visitors can find a variety of merchandise featuring popular anime, manga, and game franchises, as well as doujinshi (fan-made comics) and cosplay costumes.

Aside from anime-related activities, Ikebukuro also offers a diverse range of entertainment options. The district is home to Sunshine City, a shopping and entertainment complex that houses the Sunshine Aquarium, a planetarium, and a variety of shops and restaurants.

For those interested in Japanese pop culture, the Animate Ikebukuro store is a must-visit, as it offers a wide range of merchandise featuring popular anime, manga, and game franchises. With its vibrant atmosphere and diverse range of activities, Ikebukuro District is a must-visit destination for anime lovers and anyone looking to experience the unique culture of Tokyo.

Nakano Broadway

Nakano Broadway is a shopping complex that is a paradise for anime lovers. It is situated in the Nakano ward of Tokyo and is renowned for its multiple floors of stores selling vintage and rare items.

The place is a haven for otaku enthusiasts as it offers a unique shopping experience full of anime and manga merchandise, antiques, and collectibles. Visitors can expect to find everything from action figures to rare manga editions and vintage anime posters.

What sets Nakano Broadway apart is its numerous stores that specialize in anime and manga merchandise. One can find stores selling everything from the newest releases to old and rare items that are difficult to find elsewhere.

The place is also a great spot to find collectibles that are unique to Japan and are not available anywhere else in the world. Overall, Nakano Broadway is a must-visit for anime lovers who are looking to explore Tokyo’s otaku culture and experience its unique shopping scene.

Tokyo One Piece Tower

The Tokyo One Piece Tower is a vibrant and lively theme park that celebrates the beloved One Piece anime and manga series. Located in the heart of the bustling Minato district, the tower features a wide range of attractions and activities that cater to fans of all ages.

Visitors can immerse themselves in the world of One Piece by exploring the various themed areas within the park, such as the Straw Hat Crew’s Pirate Ship and the Tower’s rooftop observation deck that offers stunning views of Tokyo Bay.

One of the main highlights of the Tokyo One Piece Tower is the live shows that are performed daily. The shows feature the main characters of the series and showcase their unique abilities and personalities.

Fans can also enjoy interactive experiences such as the Chopper’s Thousand Sunny Tours, where they can explore a replica of the pirate ship Thousand Sunny, and the Luffy’s Endless Adventure attraction, which takes visitors on an exciting journey through the world of One Piece.

With its lively atmosphere and exciting attractions, the Tokyo One Piece Tower is a must-visit destination for anime lovers and One Piece fans alike.

Pokemon Center Mega Tokyo

Located in the bustling district of Ikebukuro, the Pokemon Center Mega Tokyo is a popular attraction that offers a wide range of Pokemon-themed merchandise and interactive experiences. The center is a haven for anime lovers and gamers, offering a unique shopping experience that caters to all age groups.

Visitors can find everything from plush toys, keychains, and apparel to limited edition items and collectibles. The center also offers exclusive Pokemon trading cards and board games, making it a must-visit destination for avid Pokemon fans.

The Pokemon Center Mega Tokyo is not just a shopping destination but also offers interactive experiences for visitors. The center features a Pikachu Cafe, where visitors can indulge in delicious Pokemon-themed treats and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Additionally, there are various interactive games and activities at the center, such as the Pokemon Stamp Rally, where visitors can collect stamps to earn prizes.

The center also hosts special events and promotions throughout the year, making it a dynamic and exciting destination for Pokemon enthusiasts.

Tokyo Joypolis

Tokyo Joypolis is the ultimate gaming destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the world of gaming.

This indoor theme park features a wide range of virtual reality and interactive games, making it a must-visit for any gaming enthusiast.

From the latest gaming technology to classic arcade games, Tokyo Joypolis is a place where visitors can experience the thrill of gaming like never before.

Experience the Ultimate Gaming Destination

For avid gamers and otaku enthusiasts, a must-visit destination in Tokyo is the vibrant and bustling gaming district. This area is home to a variety of arcades, game centers, and gaming cafes that cater to all types of gamers, from casual players to hardcore enthusiasts. One of the most popular destinations in this district is the SEGA Joypolis, an indoor amusement park that offers a unique gaming experience.

SEGA Joypolis is the ultimate gaming destination for anyone who loves arcade games and virtual reality experiences. The park has a variety of attractions, including motion simulators, shooting games, and virtual reality rides. Visitors can also enjoy classic arcade games, such as Space Harrier and Sonic the Hedgehog, as well as newer games like Mario Kart Arcade GP DX. With so much to do and see, SEGA Joypolis is a must-visit destination for any gamer or otaku enthusiast visiting Tokyo.

Enjoy Virtual Reality and Interactive Games

Gamers can fully immerse themselves in a world of virtual reality and interactive games at SEGA Joypolis in the gaming district of Tokyo. This indoor theme park offers a variety of attractions, including motion-based rides, 4D theaters, and VR experiences.

One of the most popular attractions is the Halfpipe Tokyo, a snowboarding simulator that uses VR technology to create a realistic experience. Gamers can also try their hand at shooting games, racing simulators, and even a haunted house ride.

SEGA Joypolis is a must-visit destination for gamers who want to experience the latest in gaming technology. With its wide range of attractions, there is something for everyone, from casual gamers to hardcore enthusiasts. The park also hosts special events throughout the year, such as live shows and meet-and-greets with popular game characters.

Whether you’re a fan of classic SEGA games or the latest in VR technology, SEGA Joypolis is sure to provide a thrilling and unforgettable experience.

Discover the Latest Gaming Technology

SEGA Joypolis is a popular destination for gamers and anime lovers alike. This indoor theme park is located in Odaiba and offers visitors the opportunity to experience the latest advancements in gaming technology through its immersive and interactive attractions. From virtual reality simulations to high-speed roller coasters, SEGA Joypolis has something for everyone.

One of the park’s most popular attractions is the Halfpipe Tokyo, a snowboarding simulator that uses cutting-edge technology to create a realistic snowboarding experience. Visitors can also try their hand at the Wild River, a rafting simulator that features a 360-degree screen and realistic water effects. For those who prefer more traditional arcade games, SEGA Joypolis has a wide variety of options, including classic games like Space Invaders and new favorites like Mario Kart Arcade GP DX. Overall, SEGA Joypolis is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the latest gaming technology and immersive experiences.

In addition to the attractions listed above, SEGA Joypolis also offers a variety of food and shopping options, making it the perfect destination for a day of gaming and entertainment. With its impressive array of immersive and interactive experiences, SEGA Joypolis is sure to be a highlight of any trip to Tokyo for anime lovers and gaming enthusiasts.

Shibuya District

The Shibuya District of Tokyo is a bustling commercial and entertainment hub that offers a plethora of attractions for anime enthusiasts. This district is home to a number of anime-related stores, arcades, and cafes that cater to the unique tastes of otaku culture.

Shibuya’s most notable landmark is the Hachiko statue, a tribute to a loyal dog that waited for his owner in the same spot every day for years. This statue has become a popular meeting spot for locals and tourists alike, and it is a must-visit destination for anime lovers.

One of the most popular attractions in Shibuya is the Shibuya Crossing, a busy intersection that has been featured in countless anime and movies. This iconic location offers a stunning view of the city’s neon lights and skyscrapers, and it is a popular spot for photography and people-watching.

Another popular destination is the Mandarake store, a multi-level shop that sells a wide variety of anime merchandise, including figurines, DVDs, and manga. Shibuya’s vibrant atmosphere and unique offerings make it a must-visit destination for anime enthusiasts visiting Tokyo.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any other anime-themed attractions in tokyo besides the ones mentioned in the article.

There are numerous anime-themed attractions in Tokyo besides the ones mentioned in the article.

For instance, there is the Gundam Front Tokyo, which is a museum that showcases the Gundam series and its merchandise.

Additionally, there is the J-World Tokyo, an indoor theme park that features attractions based on popular manga series such as Naruto, One Piece, and Dragon Ball.

Another notable attraction is the Akihabara district, which is known for its numerous anime and manga shops, gaming arcades, and maid cafes.

Visitors can also check out the Nakano Broadway, which is a shopping complex that sells anime merchandise, vintage toys, and collectibles.

Finally, there is the Tokyo Anime Center, which is a hub for anime-related events, exhibitions, and workshops.

Overall, Tokyo is a paradise for anime lovers with plenty of attractions to explore beyond the ones mentioned in the article.

Is it possible to find English translations or subtitles for the anime shown at the Ghibli Museum?

English translations or subtitles for the anime shown at the Ghibli Museum are not available. The museum is dedicated to showcasing the work of the renowned Japanese animation studio, Studio Ghibli, and their films are shown in their original Japanese language without any translations or subtitles. This is done to preserve the artistic integrity of the films and to ensure that visitors are fully immersed in the experience.

However, the museum provides detailed explanations of each exhibit in both Japanese and English, and visitors are encouraged to ask questions and seek clarification from the staff. Despite the lack of translations for the films, the Ghibli Museum remains a must-visit destination for any fan of the studio’s work.

Are there any restrictions on taking pictures or videos inside the anime-themed attractions?

In regards to taking pictures or videos inside anime-themed attractions, it is important to note that there may be restrictions in place. These restrictions can vary depending on the attraction, with some locations prohibiting photography altogether while others allow it in designated areas only.

It is recommended to check the specific rules and regulations of each attraction before visiting to ensure that you are following all guidelines and avoiding any potential conflicts. Additionally, it is important to be respectful of other visitors and the attraction itself, refraining from using flash photography or disrupting the experience for others.

By following these guidelines, visitors can fully enjoy the anime-themed attractions while also being considerate of others and the attraction’s rules.

Is it necessary to purchase tickets in advance for the Tokyo One Piece Tower or other popular anime attractions?

It is highly recommended to purchase tickets in advance for popular anime attractions such as the Tokyo One Piece Tower.

This is because these attractions tend to draw in large crowds, especially during peak seasons, and tickets may sell out quickly.

Additionally, purchasing tickets in advance can save visitors time and ensure that they have a guaranteed spot to experience the attraction.

It is important to note that some attractions may also offer discounted prices for advance bookings.

Therefore, it is always a good idea to check the attraction’s website or contact them directly to find out about ticket availability and prices.

Overall, planning ahead and purchasing tickets in advance can enhance the overall experience for anime lovers visiting Tokyo’s popular otaku destinations.

Are there any anime-related events or festivals that take place in Tokyo throughout the year?

Tokyo is a hub for anime enthusiasts and there are several anime-related events and festivals that take place throughout the year.

One of the most popular events is the AnimeJapan festival, which is held annually in March. This event showcases the latest anime and manga releases, as well as merchandise and other related content.

Another notable event is the Tokyo Anime Award Festival, which celebrates the best anime productions and creators.

Additionally, there are several smaller events and conventions that take place throughout the year, such as Comiket and the Tokyo Game Show. These events provide a platform for fans to engage with their favorite anime and manga creators, as well as to connect with fellow enthusiasts.

Whether you’re a die-hard fan or simply curious, there is no shortage of anime-related events to explore in Tokyo.

Tokyo is a dream destination for anime lovers, with numerous otaku destinations to explore. The Akihabara district is a must-visit, with its countless anime and manga shops, as well as maid cafes and arcades.

The Ghibli Museum is also a must-see, showcasing the works of Studio Ghibli and providing a magical experience for fans. The Ikebukuro district is another great spot for anime lovers, with its themed cafes and shops.

Nakano Broadway offers a unique shopping experience, with its variety of collectibles and second-hand anime merchandise. The Tokyo One Piece Tower, Pokemon Center Mega Tokyo, and Tokyo Joypolis are all great amusement parks for anime fans.

The Shibuya district also offers a range of anime-related shops and cafes. Overall, Tokyo is a vibrant and exciting city for anime lovers, with a diverse range of otaku destinations to explore.

Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just enjoy the art form, Tokyo has something for everyone. From shopping to museums to amusement parks, there are countless ways to immerse yourself in the world of anime. Don’t miss out on the chance to experience Tokyo’s unique and unforgettable otaku culture.

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27 Best Things to Do in Tokyo

By Melinda Joe and Anna Chittenden

Deciding the best things to do in Tokyo depends on how much time you have—and for your sake, we hope you have a month. The city’s streets can feel like a game of soccer played at hyper speed, while calmer attractions range from temples, museums , gardens, origami classes, and bohemian sojourns. This city has more than enough going on to put you in a tizzy, so a words of advice: Arrive with a game plan and prepare to get lost along the way, in a good way. Here, the very best things to do in Tokyo.

Read our complete Tokyo travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Senso-ji Arrow

Tokyo may not have as many temples as Kyoto, but Senso-ji isn’t the capital city’s most popular just by default. The atmosphere alone here is one for the bucket list. Senso-ji, the temple itself, is at the end of the shopping street, while a recently renovated five-story pagoda stands to the left (ranking in as the second tallest pagoda in Japan). Japanese visitors flutter around a large cauldron in front of the temple where incense burned inside is said to benefit good health. Travelers keen to avoid crowds should arrive early, but even tourists that are remotely interested in Japanese culture will find something to appreciate here.

Harmonica Yokocho Arrow

This clutch of narrow alleys, a short walk from the north exit of JR Kichijoji station, is stuffed to the gills with hole-in-the wall eateries. A yellow sign marks the entrance to Harmonica Yokocho, which takes its name from the layout of the vendors, slotted cheek-to-jowl along the passageways like the reeds in a harmonica. The atmospheric network of lanes started out as a post-war flea market in the 1940s, but the area underwent a transformation in the 90s when bustling bars and restaurants made their entrance onto the scene. It has a laid-back and hyper-local feel, especially during the daytime, when you’ll find fishmongers and traditional sweets makers plying their trades.

Tokyo Skytree Arrow

Topping off at 2,080 feet, the Tokyo Skytree is the tallest tower (that's tower, not building) in the world. From the broadcast tower’s 360-degree observation decks, the whole city—its striking skyscrapers and neon intersections—looks like a magical circuit board. It’s a major tourist attraction and a ticket isn’t cheap (up to ¥3,400, or $25, for combo tickets), but even if you don’t pay to go inside, there’s no denying that the Tokyo Skytree brought the skyline to a whole new level. Depending on where you’re staying, it can be an out-of-the-way trip to eastern Tokyo (luckily, a train station gets you right near the entrance). Families with children will enjoy the experience—especially the speedy elevator rides—as will anyone that loves a jaw-dropping view.

Koganeyu Arrow

Sleek design, a DJ booth, and craft beer on tap: The newly refurbished Koganeyu functions as a lively standing bar and community events space, but the main reason to visit this 89-year-old establishment is to immerse yourself in Tokyo’s sento (public sauna) culture. A crowdfunded renovation has transformed the space into a contemporary sento with four pools, a sauna, and an outdoor bath. Bathing areas for men and women are separated by a 2.2-meter partial wall, while a mural depicting Mount Fuji stretches across both areas like a scroll. You can purchase tickets from the vending machine at the entrance; a 90-minute bathing session costs about $3.50 for adults, $2.70 for students, and $1.30 for children. After emerging from the baths, relax with a glass of craft beer brewed especially for Koganeyu, or try a homemade ginger highball.

CNT Editors

Caitlin Morton

Lale Arikoglu

Jessica Chapel

Sakurai Tea Experience Arrow

Copper and wood greet you inside this minimalist sanctuary dedicated to sado, the Japanese “way of tea.” A small retail space filled with glass jars containing 30 varieties of green tea conceals an intimate eight-seat cafe. Founder Shinya Sakurai studied for 14 years to become a master, and his modern take on tea ceremony is meditative and illuminating. As Sakurai prepares the infusions behind an L-shaped wooden counter, a continuous stream of water flows from a copper tap—a symbol of purification. Gyokuro, a luxurious variety of green tea grown in the shade, is the specialty here. Sakurai travels the country to select the leaves, which he roasts daily in-house. The tasting flight for ¥4,800 (about $35) is the best introduction to the range of teas on offer.

Shibuya Crossing Arrow

Anyone remotely impressed that Tokyo is the most populated city in the world should visit the world’s busiest intersection at Shibuya Crossing. Massive video screens flashing advertisements tower above every corner as black-suited salarymen, wide-eyed tourists, and bag-toting shoppers wait and cross in concert. The feeling is oddly soothing, a reminder that whatever our disparate paths in life, they all have a tendency to cross at one time or another. The best time to go is at dusk, one of the scramble’s peak times and in its most flattering light. The Shibuya Scramble Square tower above Shibuya station offers a birds’ eye view of the famous crossing, along with panoramic vistas of the city from the Shibuya Sky rooftop observatory, perched 230 meters above street level.

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden Arrow

Fancy a stroll in a Japanese garden? Get that and more at Shinjuku Gyoen. In addition to native, traditional gardens, the 144-acre park pockets French Formal and English Landscape gardens, all of which are worth the modest entrance fee. Landmarks are stunning and impossible to forget, like a Taiwan Pavilion perched along a serene pond. Formerly an imperial garden, it became a national garden after World War II—so you can trust that this precious plot is always beautifully maintained. Don’t miss cherry blossom season.

Kappabashi Street Arrow

Kappabashi Street, a district in between Ueno and Asakusa, isn’t so much a food destination as it is a food adjacent destination: While it’s devoted to the restaurant industry, fresh food isn’t why folks come. Instead, the street is a chef’s dream of restaurant supply stores that are known best for sampuru , replicas of food dishes that are part of a century-old craft—and are up for grabs. And, because it’s more trade-focused than tourist-focused, the prices can be somewhat economical. Have any curious cooks in the family? This district is their souvenir heaven.

Azuki to Kouri Arrow

The clean-lined, slate-grey interior of this kakigori ice specialist sets off the ebullient shaved ice creations of pâtissier Miho Horio. Formerly of two-Michelin-starred restaurant Florilege, Horio is one of the young chefs elevating the sweet treat to new heights of refinement. She carefully adjusts the blade of her ice machine to shave blocks of ice—made with spring water from Nikko, north of Tokyo—into fluffy, feathery flakes. Shaping the shavings into a delicate mound, she adds fresh fruit and toppings such as homemade syrups, compotes, and foams. Her signature parfait showcases sweet azuki red beans—the classic kakigori topping for which the café is named—paired with cream and flecks of meringue. Seasonal offerings include salted cherry blossoms with fresh strawberries in spring, and blood orange dusted with grated Amazonian cacao in early summer.

Yoyogi Park Arrow

Yoyogi Park is one of the most amusing parks in Tokyo. Its 134 acres sprawl right in Shibuya, a short skip from Harajuku , and bustle with picnics and performers. The northern side is lush, with clean walkways along expansive, grassy lawns where locals and tourists spread under the shade of Japanese Zelkova trees, and gather around a large pond. Spot impromptu badminton team swinging racquets, a drum circle tapping away at the bongo, or amateur dancers following along to the beat.

Yayoi Kusama Museum Arrow

In a suburban part of Shinjuku, a smooth white building rises five stories high—a museum completely devoted to the works of Yayoi Kusama . The building looks slim, but it houses a bulk of the larger-than-life and avant-garde artist’s pieces, including an installation of her “infinity room” series (an Instagram sensation which, in the past, drew hundreds of thousands of visitors in stateside exhibitions) to polka-dotted paintings and sculptures. The museum changes its exhibition two times a year, and as it’s still relatively new, it’s only cracked the surface of the prolific artist’s work.

Kuge Crafts Arrow

The traditional technique of mending pottery with lacquer sprinkled with gold dust, kintsugi is an art form unto itself. The practice, which dates back to the 15th century, is alive and well at Kuge Crafts, a ceramics studio in the quiet Shin-Koenji neighborhood of western Tokyo. Run by a family of artisans—Yoshiichiro and Yoshiko Kuge, together with their son, Shu—the atelier transforms broken cups and dishes into singular works of art and offers two-hour kintsugi lessons (¥8,000, or about $59) for learners of all levels. The workshop will provide all the materials; you can bring your own damaged vessel for repair or ask them to prepare a piece for you to work on.

Sumo at Ryogoku Kokugikan Arrow

Only three of six official grand sumo tournaments happen in Tokyo, all at Ryogoku Kokugikan. The stadium houses over 11,000 eager fans under its green, pavilion-style roof. Official tournaments last just over two weeks each, which means Ryogoku Kokugikan sometimes hosts other events (boxing, for example). But sumo is the arena’s feature attraction, and if you’re hoping to see sumo in Tokyo, this is where to find it. Tamari seats, which are those immediately surrounding the ring, are the most coveted—and virtually impossible to score. But the next series of rows, box seats, are as close as you can get. Box seats are top-dollar, but little more than rows of tatami mats lined with red square cushions (with no backs) sold in groups of four—so cozy up, and pay up (¥380,00, or about $279, for a box). There are proper stadium seats along the second-floor mezzanine, but the thrill of witnessing this traditional Japanese sport up close is all about getting comfortable with the floor.

The Bellwood Arrow

Modeled after an early 20th-century Japanese coffee house, this swanky watering hole is fitted with modern-retro touches like a stained glass panel bearing the bar’s name, bookended by images of Mount Fuji and a martini under the moon. The main space is great for after-work drinks or late-night tipples, but the bar recently opened a glass-encased private room to host a series of food-and-cocktail pairing experiments. Witty twists on classic cocktails are prepared with flair. Start light with the Kome Tonic, made with rice-based shochu, then explore the seasonal menu: Tango Mule made with gin and Fernet Branca laced with roasted mate, or the Okushibu Fashioned with bourbon, kinako soy powder and a hint of bitter mugmort.

Nihon Minka-en Japan Open-air Folk House Museum Arrow

Though only 20 minutes by train from central Tokyo, the Nihon Minka-En Japan Open-Air Folk House Museum, located in a suburb of neighboring Kawasaki City, feels a world—and several centuries—away. The sprawling grounds are home to 25 marvelously preserved Edo-era homes relocated from all over the Japanese countryside, spanning an array of styles from farmhouses to samurai houses and includes a shrine, water mill and kabuki stage. Don’t miss the traditional indigo dyeing workshop in the middle of the park houses a small shop where you can find indigo-dyed everything, from socks and sweaters to handkerchiefs and masks.

Koffee Mameya Kakeru Arrow

Don't expect your average cup of joe at Koffee Mameya Kakeru, housed in a renovated warehouse in the Shirakawa coffee district in eastern Tokyo. Beyond the sleek glass facade, the interior designed by art director Tomohiro Kato and architect Yosuke Hayashi features a massive oak structure built around the artfully arranged coffee shelves. A rectangular wooden frame encases a three-sided stone counter built around three black tables where the baristas display their skills. Coffee maestro and founder Eiichi Kumimoto launched Koffee Mameya Kakeru to go deep into the world of the brew and push the boundaries of the drink's potential. The menu showcases seasonal varieties, but the omakase-style coffee tasting courses (including a range of cold and milk brews, mocktails, and lattes) take center stage, offering a fascinating journey through the diverse flavors and artistry of coffee. Coffee cocktail champion Akira Zushi dazzles with flair bartending skills and innovative cocktails like the milk brew blended with hop-accented jasmine tea and lemon, finished with a spritz of prickly ash water.

Oedo Antique Market Arrow

Oedo Antique Market is a marvelous outdoor fair held near Tokyo Station twice a month, with stalls selling wonderful antique and vintage wares. Hundreds of independent stallholders set up shop to sell their one-of-a-kind objects. There isn’t a huge number of antique or vintage homeware shops in Tokyo—so if you’re looking for old, interesting, and unique Japanese items for your home, this is the place to come. The items on sale at Oedo are completely one-off and unique. You’d be hard pressed to find a permanent shop in Tokyo that has the choice and style that you’ll find here. For first dibs, come earlier in the day.

Kyu Asakura House Arrow

Built in 1919, the former residence of government official Torajiro Asakura is a marvelously preserved example of traditional Japanese architecture tucked into Tokyo’s bustling Daikanyama district. For ¥100 (about 73 cents), you can wander through the building’s stately wooden corridors, tatami-floored rooms, and beautifully manicured grounds. The suginoma (cedar rooms) on the west side of the structure offer postcard-perfect views of the Japanese garden—particularly in the autumn, when the maple trees blaze with color. One of the city’s best-kept secrets, the property is an oasis of calm. It’s the perfect place to escape the crowds for an hour or two and contemplate the passing of time.

Nakameguro Arrow

It’s okay to visit the artsy neighborhood, Nakameguro, just to see its seasonal appeal as one of the most picture-perfect spots for cherry blossoms in spring. However, stick around these charming streets and you’ll find a hip collection of independent cafes and boutiques that offer a laid-back alternative to the city’s buzzing hubs. Sakura trees hug the Meguro River in Nakameguro’s center, blossoming as they lean over the sloped, canal-like walls surrounding the water. Once you’ve taken a moment to smell the blossoms (and fill your phone with pictures), you’ll find an array of independent boutiques and cafes branching off along narrow streets in either direction. Head to the corner-side Onibus Coffee, which serves single-origin espresso, and stop at SML, a boutique stocking delightful crafts (especially ceramics) made by Japanese artists. 

Nakano Broadway Arrow

A Tokyo mecca for anime- and manga-loving otaku subculture fans, the Nakano Broadway is a multi-story shopping arcade that has become a hub for niche collectors of all stripes. When it first opened in 1966, the complex epitomized the spirit of future-perfect economic optimism sparked by the Tokyo Olympics. Competition from newer shopping malls emptied its corridors of fancy boutiques in the 80s, before the Broadway reinvented itself as a center for used manga and anime models in the 90s. More than 300 tiny outlets are crammed into the aging edifice’s bottom five floors, offering everything from vintage Godzilla and Astroboy figurines to designer watches and creepy dolls galore.

Isetan Arrow

Isetan is Tokyo’s best—and most famous—department store; its history dates back to 1886, when it started as a kimono shop. The sprawling flagship in Shinjuku is spread out over nine floors, each offering something special. There’s a big fashion focus, with local Japanese brands sitting beside international names. Don’t miss a visit to the wonderful food hall on B1, which sells a variety of Japanese snacks and goodies, including beautifully prepared bento boxes for lunch.

Tsukiji Market Arrow

In October 2018, the world’s largest fish market, Tsukiji, shut down after 83 years and re-opened in two distinct parts. At the original location, it’s pretty much business as usual, with street-food stalls serving up everything from seared tuna to uni sandwiches in squid-ink sticky buns. Just down the road at Toyosu Market , meanwhile, you can taste fresh raw fish in a series of sushi bars and peek in on the auctions (formerly held at Tsukiji) and live fish sales from a second-story viewing station. You can also tour a large green space on the rooftop, which affords views of the Tokyo skyline.

Heiwa Doburoku Brewery Kabutocho Arrow

This simple but stylish Wakayama-based sake brewpub in Tokyo makes clever use of a corner space in Kabutocho, the recently hip neighborhood near the Tokyo Stock Exchange building. As the name suggests, the bar specializes in doburoku, a rustic style of unfiltered and lightly fermented sake characterized by its thick texture. Previously outlawed for taxation reasons, the traditional brew is making a comeback, appearing on menus at Tokyo's trendiest restaurants and bars. Large windows, pale wood fixtures, and a curved counter surrounding a small open kitchen give the bar an open and airy feel. The menu lists dry-hopped and aged doburoku, varieties made with ground adzuki red beans or black beans, and a few seasonal styles flavored with fruits or herbs. But the best place to start is with the original, plain doburoku, a thick and yogurty brew with a touch of fruity fizz. Brewer Heiwa Shuzo's excellent craft beers are served on tap (we love the golden ale infused with fragrant sansho prickly ash peppercorns), and the bar offers a nice selection of the brewery's clear, award-winning sake.

Nezu Museum Arrow

This serene museum in the Aoyama district, redesigned by celebrated architect Kengo Kuma, is a contemporary temple for traditional art. A long, covered outdoor path alongside bamboo-clad walls serves as a minimalist entrance, but once inside, double-height interiors and glass walls stretch over 40,000 square feet while keeping the experience intimate. And while the museum mixes contemporary design and traditional art on the inside—over 7,400 pieces—the outside counts, too: The property is home to a stunning private garden that’s worth the visit all on its own. The bulk of the museum’s art was once the private collection of Nezu Kaichirō, the president of Japan’s Tobu Railway. Since the midcentury, the collection grew and now comprises over 7,400 pieces.

Bohemian Tokyo in Shimokitazawa Arrow

Only one express stop away from the brighter-than-bright energy of Shibuya, Shimokita (what locals call Shimokitazawa) is like turning down the volume and switching to an acoustic track. It might embrace its bohemian style—with vintage stores on seemingly every block—but it doesn’t lose that unmistakable, sophisticated Japanese style in the process. Sift through secondhand shops, sip coffee, and repeat.

Monzen-Nakacho Arrow

The old-school neighborhood of Monzen-Nakacho—known as “Mon-Naka” among locals—has retained its colorful, salt-of-the-earth shitamachi (downtown) atmosphere since the Edo era (1603-1868). Two main draws are the stately Tomioka Hachiman Shrine and the Fukagawa Fududo temple, where you can hear the sounds of drumming and chanting from the temple’s fire ceremony, held five times a day. These days, hipster coffee shops and natural wine boîtes nestle against traditional shops selling pickles, Japanese confections, and old-timey delicacies like tsukudani—bits of seafood long-simmered in soy sauce and sugar. It’s a terrific place to spend a lazy afternoon wandering the cobbled streets and alleyways en route to the Museum of Contemporary Art in neighboring Kiba. But at night, the neighborhood comes alive with an array of reasonably priced eating and drinking spots.

teamLab Borderless Arrow

With the first iteration of Borderless in Odaiba, the art collective Teamlab created an endlessly Instagrammable, sumptuous and surreal museum dedicated to multi-sensory digital art. Opened in 2018, the facility, which set the world record for the most visited museum dedicated to a single artist, closed its doors in 2022. However, Borderless 2.0 is set to relocate to a permanent location in the soon-to-open Azabudai Hills mixed-use complex in central Tokyo in early 2024. Boderless consists of installations that feature constantly morphing patterns and designs that seem to flow seamlessly from room to room in a maze-like space. Updated versions of some of the museum’s previous works will be on display, as well as several new installations: a room filled with hundreds of multicolored lights that run along tracks continuously and a series of interactive “light sculptures,” to name a few.

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11 must-see places for otaku in Japan 日本のオタクスポット11選

• Published on : 02/05/2023
• by : J.R.B.
• Add to favorites

Akihabara de nuit

Unsplash / Pat Krupa

Going to Japan and wondering how you can immerse yourself in the country's otaku culture? Japan is the birthplace of otaku culture and discovering it is an exciting adventure for manga, anime and video game fans.

In this article, we present 11 must-see places where you can immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of this very special culture. Get ready to explore specialized stores, dedicated museums, festivals, and let us guide you through these dream destinations!

1 - Akihabara - The Mecca of Otaku

No otaku pilgrimage to Japan would be complete without a visit to Akihabara.  The famous district in central Tokyo that has become synonymous with pop culture, anime, manga, video games, and technology, Akihabara, often abbreviated to Akiba, is home to hundreds of stores selling everything from action figures and cosplay costumes to retro video games and electronic equipment. The streets are lined with colorful billboards, giant posters with anime characters, and maid cafes, where waitresses dressed in frilly outfits serve drinks and other snacks. Akihabara is also a place where many otaku events take place, such as anime screenings, idol concerts, or video game tournaments.

The Akihabara district in Tokyo: a former green area that has become a landmark of electronics in the capital.

Wikimedia Commons

2 - The Pokémon Center & the Pokémon Café - Dive into the world of Pokémon

If you are a Pokémon fan, there is no shortage of Pokémon Centers all over the country. These are stores specializing in products derived from the famous video game and animation franchise. Each of these Pokémon Centers offers exclusive Pokémon plushes, playing cards, clothing, stationery, and other items, some of which are only available at a particular Pokémon Center. You can also participate in rare Pokémon giveaway events or create your own personalized Pokémon card.

Inside the Pokemon Cafe

The Pokémon Café, meanwhile, is a themed restaurant that offers an immersive experience for fans of all ages. It is sure to delight the senses, with its Pokémon-inspired decor and food and drinks inspired by the franchise's most iconic Pokémon. The menu changes regularly, depending on the seasons and game releases, so that each visit can be different. Currently, two Pokémon Cafés are open in Japan: one in Tokyo at Nihonbashi and the other in Osaka. Fans can also buy exclusive Pokémon Café souvenirs, such as limited edition mugs, bags and keychains.

Pokémon Café addresses: Chuo District, Nihonbashi, 2nd District, 11-2, Nihonbashi Takashimaya S.C. East Building, 5th Floor, Tokyo, 103-0027, Japan 1 Chome-7-1 Shinsaibashisuji, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-8501, Japan

3 - The Ghibli Museum - The enchanting world of Miyazaki

The Ghibli Museum, opened in 2001 in Mitaka, west of Tokyo, is a must-see destination if you are passionate about animation and Studio Ghibli films. It's a whimsical museum that features interactive exhibits, original artworks, and a small screening room, the Saturn Theater, which shows exclusive short films, most of which are directed by the master Hayao Miyazaki himself. You can also explore an enchanting rooftop garden and enjoy lovely snacks at the on-site Straw Hat Café.

To reserve a seat, however, you'll need to do so (far) in advance, as this museum is a popular destination. The museum is open every day from 10 am to 6 pm except on Tuesdays. Address: 1 Chome-1-83 Shimorenjaku, Mitaka, Tokyo 181-0013, Japan

Totoro greets you at the entrance to the Ghibli Museum

Tony&Wayne

4 - Nakano Broadway - A collector's paradise

If you're looking for a more low-key, nostalgic otaku experience, head to Nakano Broadway, a shopping complex located in the Nakano district of Tokyo. Nakano Broadway is a four-story building filled with small stores and stalls selling a wide range of anime items, manga, retro games and toys, and collectible figurines. The atmosphere is warm and relaxed, and you can easily spend hours browsing the shelves and chatting with the owners of the various stores. Some stores specialize in rare and vintage items, while others offer custom items or fan-made creations. As you stroll through the aisles, you might just find the perfect piece of jewelry, as there is something for every taste and budget.

Nakano Broadway

5 - The Comiket - The biggest gathering of manga fans

Comiket, short for Comic Market, is a bi-annual event in Tokyo that attracts hundreds of thousands of manga, anime, and video game fans from around the world. Comiket is the largest market for doujinshi, fanzines created by amateurs and sold at affordable prices. You will also find works by professional artists, exclusive merchandise, and impressive cosplays. Comiket is a unique experience for fans of all genres and cultures, but it is important to prepare in advance, as the lines can be long and the crowds large.

The Comiket, the biggest otaku event in Japan

Crunchyroll

6 - Den Den Town - The Akihabara of Osaka

Den Den Town is a vibrant and lively area located in Osaka, famous for its electronics and anime culture.

It is home to a multitude of stores selling a wide range of electronics, gadgets, and anime-related products. Visitors can find everything from classic video games and retro consoles to the latest high-tech gadgets and anime-related products. The shopkeepers, passionate and experts in their field, are always ready to share their knowledge and exchange ideas with visitors.

Den Den Town is also famous for its cosplay culture, with many fans dressing up as their favorite characters and roaming the streets. The charm of Den Den Town also lies in its friendly and authentic atmosphere. With its lively atmosphere, unique shopping experience, and diverse cultural offerings, Den Den Town remains a must-see place for otaku visiting Osaka.

Signs of Den Den Town neighborhood.

7 - Universal Studio Osaka - The ideal theme park for otaku

Universal Studios Japan, located in Osaka, is a theme park where you can experience a multitude of attractions related to pop culture, including manga and video games. One of the park's star attractions is the enchanting world of Harry Potter, where fans of the saga can stroll through the cobblestone streets of Hogsmeade and enjoy a delicious Buttercup.

Universal Studios Japan is also the perfect place for video game enthusiasts, with the recently opened Super Nintendo World area. This part of the park transports visitors to the iconic world of Nintendo, where they can wander through the Mushroom Kingdom in the colors of Mario, Luigi, Toad, and other iconic characters from the Super Mario franchise.

Don't miss the attractions and places dedicated to other famous licenses such as Spider-Man, the Minions, Jurassic Park, or Hello Kitty. Finally, you can find temporary special events, often featuring the latest anime or video game releases, as well as movie screenings and signing sessions with artists and creators.

Universal Studios Japan

©Romeo-A, unsplash

8 - Otome Road - the paradise for female manga lovers

Located in Tokyo's bustling Ikebukuro district, Otome Road is an iconic street for its community of fans who are passionate about anime and manga aimed at a female audience. You can find a multitude of different items, such as action figures, cosplay accessories, music CDs and video games.

Since its opening in the early 2000s, Otome Road has become a must-see pilgrimage for fans of shōjo, girls' manga. Iconic titles such as Sailor Moon, Fruits Basket and Yuri on Ice are among the most popular series, offering merchandise of all kinds. Otome Road does not limit itself to selling merchandise, however.

Temple géant des otakus, Akihabra regorge de salles de jeux vidéo.

Themed cafes, inspired by anime and manga series, are also popular, and it is possible to enjoy food and drinks inspired by famous anime and manga, while chatting with other fans with similar interests. In addition, special events are regularly held in the stores and cafes, ranging from book signings with manga authors to meetings with artists and celebrities related to the industry.

9 - JUMP Shop - dive into the universe of Weekly Shōnen Jump

At the JUMP Shop, present all over Japan, you will find a varied selection of articles related to the main series of Shonen Jump, such as One Piece, Hunter x Hunter and Bleach, among many others. Quality figurines, clothes with the effigy of your favorite characters, or notebooks decorated with original drawings: this is a sample of what you can discover in this store. They also offer exclusive limited edition products, which change frequently to keep up with the news of the famous pre publication magazine.

The JUMP Shop, where you can find all the heroes of Shōnen Jump

@Kamechan in Japan

10 - Cosplay restaurants - culinary immersion in the otaku universe

These are restaurants and cafes with a particular theme. The most famous are the maid cafes, where the waitresses dress as maids and treat their customers like kings. These Japanese establishments have been gaining popularity since the early 2000s and have become an emblem of otaku culture: they are mainly present in the Akihabara district. In these themed cafes, you will be greeted by an "okaerinasai" (welcome home) and called "goshujin-sama" (master) or "ojō-sama" (mistress). In addition to kawaii menus, you will have the opportunity to chat with the waitresses, play games with them or even watch live performances.

The waitresses dressed in maid (maid) of the Home Café will call you master.

There is also a male equivalent: butler cafés, where service is provided by men in butler suits. Some rarer variants exist, such as cat-maid cafés, where the waitresses have cat ears and tails in addition to their maid costumes and punctuate their sentences with "nya" (meow) and other feline mimics. Finally, there are the tsundere cafés where the waitresses play "tsundere" characters, a popular archetype in anime and manga that designates a person who, at first, seems cold and distant but who gradually reveals her warm and caring side. In these cafes, it is not uncommon for the waitresses to ignore you, or to be aggressive with you at first.

11 - Ikebukuro - The ideal shopping area

Ikebukuro is another district of Tokyo very popular with otaku. It hosts the famous Animate chain of stores present all over Japan, a must for all animation and manga fans. The one in Ikebukuro is the biggest in Japan! This spacious and animated place offers an impressive variety of merchandise, such as figurines, posters, DVDs, and Blu-rays, among many others, enough to satisfy all visitors.

Other points of interest include the Mugiwara Store, a space dedicated to the One Piece universe, where fans can find goodies and clothes featuring their favorite characters. The Pokémon Center, on the other hand, offers a range of products dedicated to the famous creatures, including stuffed animals and trading cards.

Animate in Ikebukoro, the largest anime and manga merchandise store

Bonus - Kabukicho Tower - the huge futuristic entertainment tower

Newly opened in April 2023, this tower is now the largest entertainment complex in Japan. With 48 floors and a retro-futuristic look, it offers a variety of atmospheres that will satisfy everyone's taste. For example, the second floor, with a matsuri theme, is filled with izakaya, those typical Japanese restaurants. Otaku will also be delighted to find Gachapon, UFO Catcher, Taiko, and other arcade and virtual reality games. Luxury hotels, a gym, a concert hall, an escape game, cinemas, and theaters are also part of this complex. Finally, many temporary events are organized there, often related to anime, like Sword Art Online or Evangelion.

The recently opened Kabukicho Tower offers a variety of atmospheres

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Explore > Type of vacation > City > Best Tours in Tokyo for Anime Fans

Best Tours in Tokyo for Anime Fans

Between multi-floor anime and manga stores, huge arcades in Akihabara, and the kawaii (cute) fashion in Harajuku, Tokyo is an otaku (anime geek) heaven. Immerse yourself in modern Japanese culture by having a local show you around on an anime tour in Tokyo. Check out museums dedicated to Japanese animation, ride go-karts through Tokyo streets, and have a photoshoot while wearing traditional samurai armor.

Akihabara Anime Tours in Tokyo

If you’re an otaku visiting Japan, then Akihabara Electric Town is calling your name. There you’ll find tall buildings packed with anime, manga, video games, figurines, and collectables. Exploring this jam-packed area can be overwhelming, but going on a guided otaku tour in Tokyo can help you get your bearings and ensure you don’t miss the tucked-away entrances to the best anime shops around.

If you only have 48 hours in Tokyo , team up with a local guide in Akihabara to make sure you experience gachapon capsule toy machines, purikura photobooths, and kawaii parfaits at a maid café. To get your otaku fix and see more of the city, catch the best of Akihabara and Asakusa on an electric bike anime tour of Tokyo .

Another hot spot for anime, manga, and video game merchandise is the shopping complex of Nakano Broadway. Just a short walk from Nakano Station, you’ll find most of the otaku stuff on the 3 rd and 4 th floors.

Tokyo for Gamers

For video game fun in Tokyo, be sure to check out multi-level arcades like Club Sega and retro gaming stores like Super Potato in Akihabara. Level up your sightseeing by go-karting on Tokyo roads dressed up like one of your favorite video game characters (yahoo!). Race with your friends or enjoy a leisurely drive while seeing the sights with a guide. It’s no Rainbow Road, but you can still cruse past iconic buildings like Tokyo Tower and Meiji Shrine.

Anime and Manga Museums in Tokyo

A life-sized Totoro greets you with a wide grin at the ticket gate of the Ghibli Museum in Mitaka, Tokyo. This interactive museum imagined by Hayao Miyazaki celebrates the animation studio that created cult favorite films like My Neighbor Tototo , Princess Mononoke , and Spirited Away . You must buy tickets in advance and they sell out quickly. Ensure you get a chance to visit this legendary anime museum in Tokyo on a Ghibli Museum tour that includes a trip to Nakano Broadway .

Another must-see anime museum in Tokyo is the Suginami Animation Museum which traces the history of anime and lets you behind the scenes to how it is made. Interactive exhibits let you create your own short animation, try your hand at voice acting, and snap photos with various anime characters. Admission is free, as is the English audio guide. Other anime and manga museums in Tokyo include the Fujiko F. Fujio Museum and the Toei Animation Museum, which is Japanese language only.

Experience Harajuku Fashion

Step into the subculture of Japanese street fashion and get an insider’s look on a guided tour of Harajuku . While exploring the unique boutiques of Takeshita Street, get tips on where to find the best cosplay or lolita-style accessories. Whether you wear visual kei or are just curious about the outrageous outfits Japanese teens sometimes wear, walking through Harajuku is a visual feast. And speaking of food, this is also the place to try gigantic rainbow cotton candy, delicious Japanese crepes, and other kawaii food , so bring your appetite.

Themed Cafés in Tokyo

After you’ve spent the morning walking around and shopping on a Tokyo anime tour, refuel in one of Japan’s famous themed cafés. Enjoy food in the shape of your favorite characters at the Pokémon Café , order drinks served by ladies in maid outfits at a maid café, or hold an hedgehog at a hedgehog café . Many themed cafés in Tokyo have limited seating and require advanced reservations. Where else but Japan can you pet an owl and sip a hot drink all under one roof?

Wear Samurai Armor, Ninja Garb, or a Kimono in Tokyo

If you’re into cosplay (wearing costumes), then what better way to experience Japan then by dressing up and touring Tokyo? Put on ninja garb and take a stealthy tour around Asakusa . Practice your ninjutsu (ninja arts) at the iconic red lantern of Sensō-ji temple and while cooking your own okonomiyaki (savory pancake) for lunch.

In Shinjuku, wrap yourself in layers of beautiful silk by trying on a traditional Japanese kimono . Experts help you get dressed and provide accessories perfect for a photoshoot. After learning about samurai warriors, choose from 7 different styles of samurai armor to try on and pose in for epic photos to remember your time in Tokyo.

If you’re hoping to see locals in cosplay, you can sometimes watch people modeling their latest creations on Sundays in Harajuku or near the giant Gundam statue in Odaiba. Just be sure to ask permission before taking a photo.

Tokyo Tower

Although the newer Tokyo Skytree may have a higher observation deck (and penguins), no anime fan’s trip to Tokyo is complete without seeing the iconic Tokyo Tower. Its been destroyed by Godzilla, hosted epic battles in anime and manga, and has recently been taken over by a One Piece anime amusement park . Meet your favorite characters from the popular One Piece series, see a live stage show of the Straw Hat Pirates’ wacky adventures, and enjoy themed games and rides.

Robot Restaurant Show & Japanese Cabaret

If watching samurai battle robot dinosaurs to pumping techno music makes your heart go doki doki , spend an evening in Tokyo at the Robot Restaurant Show . Dancers in extravagant costumes, neon lights, and over-the-top animatronic pandas, dinos, and sharks—it’s as cheesy and awesome as it sounds.

Beautiful women in kimono twirl fans and dashing samurai clash swords during the Japanese Dance Cabaret Show at Roppongi Kaguwa . A modern take on the red-light district atmosphere of the Meiji era (1868-1912) when oiran (Japanese courtesans) entertained, this cabaret is less risqué and more a blending of today’s Japanese culture with old traditions. Enjoy unlimited drinks during the show and take pictures with the dancers afterwards.

What are your must-see spots on an anime tour of Tokyo?

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Home of Anime, Movies, and Japan Life

14 Locations in Japan You Must Visit If You’re An Anime Fan

If you give an anime fan a free plane ticket to anywhere in the world, chances are they will end up in Japan. Japan is the birthplace of anime, manga, and video games, and hosts a variety of awesome locations you have to see if you’re an anime lover.

Western anime fans may not be familiar with the country, but have no fear! Compiled here are some must-see attractions for any anime fan visiting the Land of the Rising Sun.

There’s so many great anime tourist locations to visit that it can be overwhelming for any first-timers. They may be overwhelmed with questions like, which anime store has the best selections of anime? Are there museums about manga and the history of animation? Where is the anime theme park? If you’re afraid of wasting your time in Japan on wild goose chases, don’t worry – this list of famous anime destinations in Japan will have you covered.

Check out the awesome attractions below that no anime fan should miss in Japan.

#1 Dogo Onsen

Photo:  Christian Kaden / Flickr

There’s nothing more anime than partaking in a nice, warm dip in a hot spring. If you want a hot spring episode of your very own, visit the Dogo Onsen in Ehime Prefecture. Dogo Onsen’s popularity with the locals and tourists surged once the critically acclaimed Studio Ghibli film,  Spirited Away , used the place as inspiration for Yubaba’s bathhouse. You won’t find any river gods or witches at Dogo Onsen, but you will find a rejuvenating experience that will refresh your mind and spirit.  warm bath to rejuvenate your body.

Links:  Official Website

#2 Tokyo Anime Center

Photo:   AminoApps

The Tokyo Anime Center is the perfect place for tourists to indulge in their love of anime because it was designed with that mind. Located on the fourth floor of the Akihabara UDX building near JR Akihabara Station, the Tokyo Anime Center provides anime information and entertainment for foreigners and Japanese residents. It regularly hosts live radio interviews with anime creators and voice actors, and holds events like autograph signings.

Links:  Official Website  (in Japanese) /  TripAdvisor

#3 J-World Tokyo

Photo:   Dennis Amith / Flickr

J-World Tokyo is like a small-scale Disney World of Shonen Jump anime characters. The indoor amusement park in Ikebukuro’s Sunshine City celebrates the biggest anime action franchises from the magazine like One Piece, Hunter X Hunter, and Dragon Ball Z. It’s worth the price of admission for the amazing atmosphere alone. You’ll marvel at the real-life recreation of the Going Merry from  One Piece , or the ninja ramen shop from Naruto. Any Toonami fan will jump for joy for thevisiting the J-World Tokyo amusement park and participating in all the fun activities based on their favorite show.

Links:  Official Website  /  Ticketing

#4 Akihabara

Akihabara goes by many names: “Electric City,” “Electric Town,” “Akiba.” For many anime fans dreaming of flying to Japan, Akihabara is simply known to them as the ultimate otaku destination. Akihabara is often characterized as the embodiment of anime culture and for very good reason. An insane amount of electronic shops and otaku-oriented venues are located here, welcoming you with its big and loud anime visuals. After buying all the anime and manga you can handle, you can unwind with a delightful meal at the various maid cafes and be treated like royalty, or simply enjoy a nice musical performance at AKB48’s music theater.

Links: GoTokyo  /  TripAdvisor

#5 Asagaya Anime Street

A post shared by DIG Tokyo Tours (@digtokyotours) on Jan 26, 2017 at 11:42pm PST

With Asagaya surrounded by many famous anime studios such as A-1 Pictures, Madhouse, and Production I.G, it makes sense to create an otaku paradise at the heart of anime culture. While it still has a way to go in catching up with Akihabara, Asagaya Anime Street is still worth visiting for its anime shops, theme cafés, and original character goods.

#6 Tokyo Character Street

Photo:  DozoDomo / Flickr

Anyone eager to spend their hard-earned money on anime merchandise will want to take their wallets to the Tokyo Character Street. The underground shopping street right below Tokyo Station features numerous item shops dedicated to the biggest anime and gaming franchises in Japan. There’s the Studio Ghibli Official Shop, Hello Kitty Shop, Rilakkuma Store, the Pretty Cure Shop, and so much more.

Links: GoTokyo

#7 Pokemon Mega Center Tokyo

Photo:  soranews24

When you go to the Pokémon Mega Center Tokyo store, you’re going to buy lots and lots of Pokémon merchandise. Why? Because you won’t be able to help it. The Mega Center doesn’t just have typical Pokémon stuff like the GameBoy games and console spinoffs. No, no – the Mega Center has exclusive, one-of-a-kind items that can only be found in Japan. Pikachu-themed jelly drinks, noodles, curry, and matcha cookies are just the tip of the iceberg. There are trading cards, key chains, rice bowls, shirts, socks, sponges, and so much more. It’s Pokémon heaven and a definite must-see for anime fans.

Links: Official Website  (in Japanese) /  TripAdvisor

#8 Suginami Animation Museum

Photo:  muza-chan.net

Anime fans who are interested in the history and making of anime should definitely visit the Suginami Animation Museum. There are exhibits about animation, dubbing, and the future of anime. The museum also boasts an anime library, a theater, and interactive workshops.

Links: Official Website

#9 Otome Road

Photo:  coolphotojapan.com

Otome Road (AKA Maiden Road) has shopping centers filled with anime, manga, magazines, and novels that are directed toward a female audience. Most apparent are the shops and restaurants featuring yaoi, or Boy’s Love, merchandise, to the point where Otome Road is often nicknamed “Fujoshi Street.” Otome Road’s popularity skyrocketed in 2005, thanks to the film Densha Otoko. The movie portrays Otome Road as a female otaku’s dream.

Links:  TripAdvisor

#10 Kyoto International Manga Museum

Photo:  kanpai-japan.com

Any anime fan will be able to appreciate the the International Manga Museum in Kyoto. The facility strives to preserve, study, and research the culture of manga throughout history. You’ll see heaps upon heaps of all kinds of different manga, exhibitions about influential manga artists, and seminars and workshops about manga.

#11 Gundam Base Tokyo

Photo:  IQRemix / Flickr

Formerly the Gundam Front Tokyo, the Gundam Base Tokyo serves as a museum and store for the legendary Mobile Gundam franchise in Japan. Gundam fans will be in mecha heaven as they explore the rich anime history that dates all the way back to 1979. All the merchandise and goodies are available to purchase, but what makes the Gundam Base Tokyo worth the trip is the grand selection of Gundam model kits. You’ll not only be able to assemble them in the store, but also be able to see how they’re made. If you get hungry, you can stop by the café and enjoy some Gundam-themed food and drinks.

#12 Washinomiya Shrine

Photo:  WikiMedia Commons

Lucky Star fans looking for a fun way to spend their New Years in Japan will want to check out the Washinomiya Shrine in the Saitama Prefecture. Washinomiya is the birthplace of the Hiiragi sisters, Tsukasa and Kagami, and features them working as Shrine Maidens in the anime. Thanks to Lucky Star’s popularity, Washinomiya is one of the hottest spot for anime tourisim in Japan, as over 100,000 people visit the shrine to pray, hang up their New Year wishes, and buy otaku goodies.

#13 Toyosato Elementary School

Photo:  wikimedia.org

Despite airing over eight years ago, the K-ON anime fandom is still going strong. While it’s no Season 3, visiting the real-life school that inspired the anime is the next best thing. Toyosato Elementary School is a popular spot for cosplay photo shoots and celebrating anime birthdays of the girls. In case you were wondering, yes, the school stairs are still decorated with small statues of turtles, as seen in the anime.

Links: Official Website  (Japanese) /  TripAdvisor

#14 Yoshihiro Yonezawa Memorial Library Of Manga And Subcultures

A post shared by Tara McInerney (@taraannmcinerney) on Oct 31, 2015 at 8:43pm PDT

It goes without saying that Japan values its manga industry, but you don’t often hear the names of the people who helped legitimize the art form. That’s why visiting the Yoshihiro Yonezawa Memorial Library of Manga and Subcultures at Tokyo’s Meiji University should be a high priority for history lovers and manga enthusiasts.

The library features the manga collection of Yoshihiro Yonezawa, a manga critic, author, and co-founder of Comiket. He was known for filling houses with manga to the point where he would just buy a new home if he ran out of room. This was a process he repeated several times. Yonezawa’s collection features a wide arrange of books that are not normally saved, such as throwaway manga from vending machines. Of course, his collection boasts famous works like the 1956 Tetsujin 28-go manga (Gigantor), the first robot manga in Japan.

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• Must-Visit Spots in Japan for Anime and Manga Lovers

Anime and manga have played huge parts in our childhood. The characters we watched on television and saw in comic books while growing up immensely entertained us and massively fueled our imaginations. For most of us, our fascination for anime and manga never really stopped even as we grew older. 

Most of us are still enthralled with the adventures and stories of our favorite characters. We even dream of someday traveling to Japan to visit shops that sell the latest manga releases or spend a day in amusement parks where the thrilling rides and attractions are inspired by our favorite anime shows. 

If you are an anime and manga lover who dreams of visiting Japan soon, here are five spots you should visit:

1. Pokémon Center

Pokémon Centers are located all over Japan. These places offer a wide array of items that will satisfy your love for Pokémon. Some of them even have merchandise only available for purchase in certain areas of Japan, which makes visiting different Pokémon Centers worth the trip. 

Aside from the huge selection of merchandise, you can also play interactive games with your family and friends inside these shops. In some of the Tokyo and Osaka locations, there are cafes that serve sumptuous meals and desserts. Pokémon events are also held from time to time, so you can meet, interact, and play with fellow fans. How cool is that? 

Don't forget to bring your camera, too, because there are giant Pokémon statues in these centers that are perfect for photos and videos!

Filipino actor and host Robi Domingo, a big Pokémon fan, visited one of the Pokémon Centers during his recent trip to Japan. He even vlogged about it on his YouTube channel.

2. Fujiko·F·Fujio Museum (Kanagawa)

Most of us grew up watching the adventures of Doraemon and Nobita, and until now, these characters still hold a special place in our hearts. Did you know that there is a museum dedicated to this well-loved anime show and its creator? 

Also known as the Doraemon Museum, Fujiko·F·Fujio Museum is an art museum that is home to the works of the creator of the popular anime series and is located in Kawasaki, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan. 

Not only does the museum display Fujiko·F·Fujio's original “Doraemon” artwork, but it also showcases artworks from other series he created.

A big selection of merchandise is also available in the museum. If you are feeling peckish, you can dine at the museum's cafe that offers Doraemon-themed meals. There are Doraemon statues around the museum that you can take pictures with as well. 

3. Hita City, Oita Prefecture

If you are a big fan of "Attack on Titan," take a trip to Hita City in Oita Prefecture, the beautiful hometown of its creator, Hajime Isayama. 

To pay tribute to the successful series, statues of its three protagonists—Eren, Mikasa, and Armin—were built at the foot of Oyama Dam. When visitors use the "Attack on Titan in HITA" app, an augmented reality image of the Colossus Titan appears on the screen above the dam, similar to the scene from the series. Sounds awesome, right? 

Aside from taking photos with the statues and reliving the exciting scene from the show, you can also visit the “Attack on Titan in HITA Museum,” which puts on display the original artworks of Isayama. At this free-to-enter museum, the works of Isayama during his younger years are on display.

4. NARUTO & BORUTO SHINOBI-ZATO (Hyogo)

Many of us have daydreamed about becoming ninjas at some point in our lives because of the "NARUTO" series. Well, you can finally fulfill that dream of yours at NARUTO & BORUTO SHINOBI-ZATO (Ninja Village).

Located in Nijigen no Mori (Awaji Island Anime Park) in Hyogo Prefecture, the attraction is home to life-size statues of the characters from "NARUTO" and "BORUTO: NARUTO NEXT GENERATIONS." Visiting this attraction is like stepping into the world of your favorite ninja characters. 

There are various activities you can do to put your "ninja skills" to the test, like doing a mission in mazes and answering quizzes. To top it off, you can also use augmented reality in taking photos, making it seem like you are using your ninjutsu techniques in the picture. 

Additionally, you can buy various NARUTO merchandise, that you would not be able to find elsewhere, in a souvenir shop here. Ichiraku, Naruto's favorite ramen, is also available for you to savor and wolf down after enjoying the attraction’s adrenaline-pumping activities.

5. Ashikaga Flower Park (Tochigi)

In the hit manga series “Demon Slayer,” wisteria trees are known to be poisonous to demons, and many fans yearn to see such a tree in real life. If you are one of those fans, you can visit Ashikaga Flower Park in Ashikaga, Tochigi Prefecture, where you will instantly be transported to the fictitious, wisteria-covered Mt. Fujikasane.

Ashikaga Flower Park is home to a Great Wisteria Tree that is about 160 years old. While it is only in full bloom during spring, the park found an innovative way to let visitors experience the lilac-colored flowers of the popular tree all year round. They installed over five million LED lights on wisteria trees in the “Garden of Illuminated Flowers.” At night, the park looks majestic with all the trees lit up, especially when you look at their reflection in the water. 

Many other types of seasonal flowers can also be found in the park such as tulips, roses, and hydrangeas.

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OTAKU IN TOKYO

anime tourism, real life anime locations and all things otaku!

Otaku’s Guide to Tokyo: Best Places For Anime Fans

If you’re like most people who have an interest in Japan and want to go to Tokyo, you most likely found out about Japan through anime. Anime is what sparks many people’s interests in Japan, so naturally if you go there you are going to want to visit places that revolve around anime! It can be hard to find good, in-depth information on the best places to go for otakus in Tokyo, so that’s why we’ve decided to write this handy guide on the very BEST places to go in Tokyo for anime lovers. Whether it’s otaku districts, anime and manga stores, anime real life locations or anime events…we’re covering them all on this list!

Anime and Manga Shops

Animate is a chain store in Tokyo that sells anime merchandise and manga of all your favorite animes. I could honestly spend hours in this shop because it has merchandise from SO many animes and so many different kinds of merchandise too! The price of the merchandise really depends on what you are buying, some items are fairly cheap whilst others are quite expensive. However the shop regularly has things on sale, so make sure you have a good search around the store!

The store also sells other items such as film merchandise, manga and other ‘otaku’ goods. If you’re looking to buy anime or manga merchandise in Tokyo, make sure you check out animate.

Animate have stores all over Tokyo, make sure you click here to find your nearest one. These are the details for the Akihabara store.

4 Chome-3-2 Sotokanda, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 101-0021

take the Chuo-Sobu Line to Akihabara Station

https://www.animate.co.jp

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Hence the name, mandarake’s focus is selling manga rather than anime merchandise. Having said that though they do sell some anime merchandise depending on the store. Of course, most of the manga is in Japanese however there are stores that sell english manga so make sure you search about the store before hand! Japanese manga is way cheaper than manga sold overseas, with one book costing around 300-400yen (3-4 USD). So even if you can’t read Japanese, a manga book in Japanese would make a great, cheap souvenir! And if you’re learning Japanese, you can use it as a learning material! If you’re interested in buying manga in Tokyo, make sure you check out Mandarake!

Mandarake also have many stores around Tokyo, check them all here . A main branch is located in Nakano, the details are below.

5 Chome-52-15 Nakano, Nakano City, Tokyo 164-0001

Take the Chuo Line to Nakano Station

https://order.mandarake.co.jp/order/?lang=en

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One Piece Mugiwara Store

If you love One Piece, you have to check out the One Piece Mugiwara Store. The store has multiple locations but a new one just opened up in Shibuya, right near the Shibuya crossing! The store is full of all the One Piece merchandise you could dream of as well as life-size figures of your favorite characters for you to take pictures with!

If you’re in Tokyo and you love One Piece, you have to check out the One Piece Mugiwara store!

150-0041 Tokyo, Shibuya City, Jinnan, 1 Chome−22−6 ７階

Take the JR Yamanote Line to Shibuya Station

http://www.mugiwara-store.com/store?hl=en

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If you love anime and manga that is part of Shonen Jump (Haikyu, Naruto, Bleach etc) then you have to go to the Jump Shop in Tokyo! It has merchandise on offer from all of the Shonen Jump animes and manga, from stationary to plushies to clothes! There are also multiple Jump Shops around Tokyo with one of the most popular being the one located in Tokyo Skytree.

The shop is also decorated amazingly with decorations of various Shonen Jump anime and manga, so it’s great to take pictures there! Here are the details for the SkyTree branch but make sure to check out the website to see the other locations!

1 Chome-1-2 Oshiage, 墨田区 Sumida City, Tokyo 131-0045

Take the Asakusa Line to Oshiage Station (SkyTree)

https://www.shonenjump.com/j/jumpshop/

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Pokemon Center

There are multiple Pokemon centers located all over Tokyo however the biggest and most popular one is located in Ikebukuro and is called “Pokemon Center MEGA Tokyo”. At the Pokemon centers in Tokyo you can find all the Pokemon merchandise you have ever dreamed of from plushies, stationary, food and much more! It is honestly a paradise for Pokemon lovers and I’d highly recommend anime and manga lovers traveling to Tokyo to go here!

170-0013 Tokyo, Toshima City, Higashiikebukuro, 3 Chome−1−2. Sunshine City 2F.

Take the JR Yamanote Line to Ikebukuro Station

https://www.pokemon.co.jp/gp/pokecen/megatokyo/

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Anime and Manga Attractions

Ghibli museum.

Of course, I have to start off this section with the famous Ghibli Museum that is located in Mitaka, Tokyo. The Ghibli Museum really does live up to it’s name and is an amazing place to go in Tokyo for those who love anime and manga! The museum is full of Studio Ghibli themed goods and their exhibitions are constantly changing with new and exciting exhibitions!

You are not aloud to take pictures inside but you can take pictures outside and in the garden so you can definitely get some great pictures there! Tickets for the museum must be bought online a month in advance, so make sure you buy yours before you go to Tokyo!

1 Chome-1-83 Shimorenjaku, Mitaka, Tokyo 181-0013

Take the Chuo Line to Kichijoji Station and walk through Inokashira Park or take the direct bus from Mitaka Station.

http://www.ghibli-museum.jp/en/

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Tokyo One Piece Tower

Tokyo One Piece Tower is a One Piece theme park that is located inside Tokyo tower! It is full of One Piece themed attractions, games, photo spots and restaurants! On top of that, there are also tons of live shows which go on throughout the day which feature all of your favorite characters! This is a great place to go for those who love One Piece but also great for families as there are tons of attractions for children too!

If you want to go up Tokyo Tower and also want to go to the One Piece tower, I’d recommend buying the ticket with both included. it costs 3,400yen and gets you into the park and the tower. Check out the official website for more information.

4 Chome-2-8 Shibakoen, Minato City, Tokyo 105-0011

Take the Hibiya Line to Kamiyacho Station.

https://onepiecetower.tokyo

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Toei Animation Museum

Toei Animation Museum is a museum in Tokyo which is located in the Toei Oizumi Animation Studio which is where many popular animes have been animated. The museum is famous for it’s amazing PreCure photo spot which has cardboard cutouts of all of the characters lined up together that you can take a photo with.

The museum is very interesting as it has a lot of information about the making of anime! It also has different exhibitions, games and many photo spots for you to enjoy. There is a shop located inside the museum which sells original merchandise of the various animes that have been animated there, including PreCure!! Another great thing about the museum is that it is completely free! If you’re in Tokyo and you love anime and manga, you HAVE to go here!

2 Chome-10-5 Higashioizumi, Nerima City, Tokyo 178-0063

Take the Ikebukuro Line Oizumi-Gakuen Station.

https://museum.toei-anim.co.jp

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Attack on Titan VR Game

A new Attack on Titan VR game called “The Collapsing Tower” has recent opened up in DiverCity, Odaiba. The game puts you inside the scene where the characters must save themselves from the titans in a collapsing tower. It costs 1,300yen to play and they have shows in both Japanese and English.

At the games reception they also sell tons of original merchandise such as mugs, shirts, stationary and much more! If you love Attack on Titan, i’d highly recommend going here as it really makes you feel like you are inside the anime…it’s amazing!

1 Chome-1-10 Aomi, Koto City, Tokyo 135-0064 (5th floor)

Take the Saikyo Line to Tokyo Teleport Station.

https://mitsui-shopping-park.com/divercity-tokyo/en/shopguide/

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Anime and Manga Real Life Locations

Suga shrine steps (your name).

If you love the anime film “Your Name” (also known as Kimi No Na Wa), you have to visit these steps! If you remember at the end of the film, Taki and Mitsuha finally meet in real life, this is one of the most heart warming scenes of the whole film! But not many know that you can go to this same place in REAL LIFE!

The steps are called “The Suga Shrine Steps” in real life due to them leading to Suga Shrine. This is one of my favorite anime related places in Tokyo because it really makes you feel like you are a part of the anime! If you love anime and can only go to one place in Tokyo, I’d recommend going here!

5-番地 Sugacho, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0018

Take the JR Chuo Line to Yotsuya Station.

http://www.sugajinjya.org

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Azabu Hikawa Shrine (Sailor Moon)

Azabu Hikawa Shrine is a shrine in Tokyo that is famous for being featured in the extremely popular anime “Sailor Moon”. The main characters of the anime often hang out at the shrine together as it is where Rei Hino and her grandfather live and work.

The shrine is quite small but it is very beautiful and looks exactly like the one featured in the anime! If you love sailor moon, you should definitely go here and recreate some scenes from the anime!

1 Chome-4-23 Motoazabu, Minato City, Tokyo 106-0046

Take the Namboku Line to Azabu-Juban Station.

https://www.azabuhikawa.or.jp

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Radio Kaikan (Steins:Gate)

Another popular anime real life spot in Tokyo is ‘Radio Kaikan’ which featured in the popular anime series called ‘Steins:Gate’. The main characters in the anime often hang out in Akihabara, a famous area in Tokyo for anime and all things otaku!

Radio Kaikan is actually the building that the time machine crashed into in Season 1 of the anime so it really is an iconic building in the anime! In real life, the building is a popular department store which is full of otaku shops selling anime merchandise, manga and much more!

1 Chome-15-16 Sotokanda, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 101-0021

Take the JR Chuo-Sobu Line to Akihabara Station

http://www.akihabara-radiokaikan.co.jp

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Kanda Shrine (Love Live!)

Kanda Shrine features in the anime “Love Live!” many times throughout the series and it is a common place for the main characters to hang out. Due to this it has recently become a very popular place for anime and manga lovers to go to take photos and recreate scenes from the anime together.

The shrine noticed the popularity it gained from the anime and so it has started selling Love Live! themed goods. These include Love Live! Omamori and Ema . I haven’t heard of any other shrine in Tokyo doing something like this so it really is a unique place to visit to get some super unique merchandise!

2 Chome-16-2 Sotokanda, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 101-0021

https://www.kandamyoujin.or.jp

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Anime and Manga Restaurants and Cafes

Shinning moon tokyo: sailor moon restaurant.

Tokyo’s first PERMANENT Sailor Moon cafe opened in Azabu-Juban this year (2019) and should be on the top of your list of places to go if you love anime and manga. The cafe sells Sailor Moon themed food which you can eat whilst watching a LIVE SHOW! The live shows are performed by amazing actresses who dance and sing along to various songs. Due to it being mostly singing and dancing, you don’t have to worry about the language!

I wrote a whole article on this restaurant so if you want to find out about it in more detail, read the article here!

106-0045 Tokyo, Minato City, Azabujuban, 1 Chome−10, ジュールＡ

https://sailormoon-shiningmoontokyo.com

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The Pokemon Cafe

The Pokemon Cafe recently opened up in Tokyo and, like the Sailor Moon restaurant, is open permanently! The cafe is set out amazingly and the food is super cute! You order your food at your table via a tablet so it avoids language barriers. They have tons of delicious food on offer and even have a vegetarian option which is quite rare in Japan.

The restaurant is also decorated amazingly and if you’re lucky you’ll get to meet chef Pikachu who comes out and does a mini show!

For more information on the cafe CLICK HERE !

103-0027 Tokyo, Chuo City, Nihonbashi, 2 Chome−11−2

Take the Ginza Line to Nihonbashi Station.

https://www.pokemoncenter-online.com/cafe/

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Gundam Cafe

This is the perfect place to go for Gundam fans as this cafe is completely Gundam themed! The food and drinks have all been inspired by the anime and the characters of the anime, whilst the decor of the store also reflects the anime very well.

This cafe is located in DiverCity, Odaiba and has gained popularity due to the HUGE Gundam statue that is located outside! The cafe is a super fun experience and I’d highly recommend anime and manga fans traveling to Tokyo to check it out!

135-0064 Tokyo, Koto City, Aomi, 1 Chome−1−10

Take the Saikyo Line to Tokyo Teleport Station

http://g-cafe.jp

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Anime and Manga Places

Akihabara, also known as ‘Akiba’ is one of the most famous places in Tokyo for Anime, Manga and all things otaku! Before the rise of otaku culture, Akihabara was a famous ‘electric town’ which was known for its cheap electrical stores selling many gadgets. There are still many of those stores located there today, however nowadays the town is full of anime and manga stores, arcades and maid cafes! Due to this it has become the main place for fellow otakus to hang out!

If you love anime and manga and you’re in Tokyo, you have to go to Akihabara as soon as you can!

1 Chome Sotokanda, Chiyoda City, Tokyo

Take the Chuo-Sobu Line to Akihabara Station

https://akihabara-japan.com

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Ikebukuro, like Akihabara, is another famous town in Tokyo that is known for it’s otaku culture. It is full of arcades, anime shops and also many shops and events that are related to idols and idol groups! This is also where the Pokemon Center Mega Tokyo is located. So, if you’re a pokemon fan this is somewhere you have to go!

Walking around the town, you really do feel the presence of anime and manga everywhere. For example, there are tons of small shop that are decorated with anime characters and goods. There are also anime cafes and food stalls! It really is a fun day out, especially for anime and manga fans.

1 Chome Minamiikebukuro, Toshima City, Tokyo 171-0022

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ikebukuro

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Tokyo Character Street

Tokyo Character Street is a row of shops located underneath Tokyo Station which are all dedicated to different animes and characters! You will definitely want to take a lot of spending money here as it is honestly amazing! There are tons of different stores located there, some of the most popular ones include the Pokemon Store, Studio Ghibli Store, Pretty Cure (PreCure) Store, Sanrio Store and MUCH MORE!

I’d particularly recommend going here if you are looking for souvenirs for people back home as all the stores are in one location so it’s easy to get everything you want, plus everything is super cute!

100-0005 Tokyo, Chiyoda City, Marunouchi, 1 Chome−9−1

Take the JR Chuo Line to Tokyo Station

https://www.tokyoeki-1bangai.co.jp/shop/category/?cg=shopping&c=character

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As previously mentioned in this article, Odaiba is where the Gundam cafe is located, along with the huge Gundam Statue located outside of DiverCity. Odaiba is also home to a Jumpshop (previously mentioned), which sells merchandise from popular Shonen Jump animes, and ‘Tokyo Joypolis’ which is an indoor theme park which is super fun and has some rides related to anime!

Odaiba is great if your with non-anime fans in Tokyo too as it can be enjoyed by everyone!

1 Chome-1-10 Aomi, Koto City, Tokyo 135-0064

https://www.tokyo-odaiba.net/en/

Thankyou for checking out our article! We love to hear what you think so make sure you join the discussion and leave a comment down below! ♡

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Otaku in Tokyo is a travel website dedicated to helping your trip to Japan with tips and information on where to visit. With particular focus on real life anime locations, pop culture and Tokyo’s hidden gems! ♥︎Follow for more♥︎

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Must See Real-Life Anime and Movie Locations in Japan

I n April 2023, Japan’s government-issued Covid-19 travel restrictions ended. Since their obsolescence, more than 2 million international visitors have returned to the popular destination. Many heading to Japan hope to discover the real-world inspiration for their favorite anime scenes and moments.

While humanity cannot travel between fictional universes and reality, some vacationers combine extensive anime knowledge, locational know-how, and help from the Anime Tourism Association to get as close as possible.

Jujutsu Kaisen

After the manga’s 2020 animated adaptation, Jujutsu Kaisen gained world-renowned popularity. As the manga and anime take place in Japan, specifically Tokyo, finding popular locations featured in the series can be done in a single city.

Harajuku, Tokyo

The third episode features Harajuku, Tokyo’s famous shopping district. The adaptation highlights Harajuku Station and Takeshita Street, and those familiar with the area can identify distinct spots displayed shot-for-shot.

Shibuya, Tokyo

Shibuya is the primary setting of the program’s second season, which follows the Shibuya Incident Arc. Several of the season’s battles occur in Shinjuku and Meiji-Jingumae stations.

Death Note, adapted into an animated series in 2006, has become an iconic part of anime culture. Light Yagami is a disgruntled high school student in Tokyo. After realizing the Death Note’s user can end lives with just the target’s full name and face, Light uses it to dispose of criminals.

Hibiya Park Seagull Fountain, Kasumigaseki, Chiyoda City, Tokyo

This fountain in Hibiya Park is the setting of a major event in episode seven. Naomi Misora becomes Light’s newest victim, and he reveals himself to her right as the Death Note takes effect in front of the Hibiya Park Seagull Fountain.

Imperial Hotel Tokyo

The Imperial Hotel Tokyo serves as the meeting place for the series’ Kira Task Force, created by the mysterious detective L.

Steins;Gate

2011’s Steins;Gate tells the tale of science-minded university students who discover their creation can send messages back in time and must keep those abilities from ending up in the wrong hands. Instead of creating a fake city or town, Steins;Gate takes place in Akihabara, Tokyo, and features many recognizable locations.

Radio Kaikan, Akihabara, Tokyo

Not only does Radio Kaikan kick off the series, but the commercial building continues to play a role throughout the story. Being one of the well-known landmarks of Akihabara, it won’t be challenging to find Radio Kaikan.

Cafe Mai:lish, Akihabara, Tokyo

Rintaro Okabe’s friend works part-time at a café called “MayQueen+Nyan².” The location drew inspiration from Tokyo’s Cafe Mai:lish, one of the oldest maid cafes in Akihabara. While the cafe is still open, it is now themed after Steins;Gate.

Yuru Camp (Cozy Camp)

2018’s Yuru Camp, or Cozy Camp, is a series that follows camping classmates Rin Shima, Nadeshiko Kagamihara, Aoi Inuyama, and Chiaki Ōgaki around Japan. The outdoorsy group spends the bulk of their time in the Yamanashi Prefecture.

Lake Motosuko, Yamanashi Prefecture

One of the five Fuji Lakes, Lake Motosuko, is portrayed multiple times throughout the series. This body of water is known among out-of-towners for its presence on the backside of the 1000 yen note.

Lake Shibire, Shibireko Prefectural Natural Park, Yamanashi Prefecture

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Suga Shrine Staircase, Tokyo

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Salon de Thé ROND, Roppongi, Minato City, Tokyo

Located on the second floor of The National Art Centre in Tokyo is a cafe called Salon de Thé ROND. This scene is where the male protagonist, Taki, attends a date with a colleague.

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Hijiribashi Bridge, Kanda River, Chiyoda City, Tokyo

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Yawatahama Port, Ehime

This port, found in Yawatahama, Ehime, connects the two southern islands of Kyushu and Shikoku. In the film, Suzume and Souta, now transformed into a child’s chair, chase the cat that has caused them issues to a ferry located at Yawatahama Port.

The ultimate guide to Tokyo's best neighborhoods

Apr 3, 2024 • 17 min read

Tokyo is a huge city, so it pays to think about where to stay © kyotokushige / Getty Images

Tokyo combines futuristic, sky-grazing structures with low-slung wooden buildings and glowing lanterns that hark back to the city's past.

Every form of Japanese culture can be found tucked away in a side street, and spending some time exploring Tokyo's neighborhoods will help you really get to know this magical place – from sumo wrestling and kabuki theater to cutting-edge contemporary art and, on a more playful note, giant robots and anime characters.

Here are the best neighborhoods to explore on a visit to  Tokyo . We recommend picking just a couple of areas close together to discover in one day. The city is huge and while public transport is effortlessly smooth, you don’t want to spend half the day getting around .

1. Marunouchi and Nihombashi

Best neighborhoods for experiencing the heart of tokyo.

Most visitors are naturally drawn to the city's geographical and cultural centerpiece, the Imperial Palace  – you could easily spend a day exploring this historic complex and the surrounding streets.

Immediately east of the palace, the high-powered business district of Marunouchi has blossomed in the past decade, with a slew of new and revamped buildings housing high-end hotels, shops and restaurants.

Tree-lined Naka-dōri has morphed into one of Tokyo's most pleasant thoroughfares – the ideal way to saunter from Tokyo Station 's handsomely reappointed red-brick frontage to Yūrakuchō, taking in the dramatic architecture of the Tokyo International Forum along the way.

Historic Nihombashi is the bridge from which all distances to Tokyo are measured. A pleasant morning or afternoon can be devoted to browsing the elegant Mitsukoshi and Takashimaya department stores, along with the Coredo Muromachi shopping, dining and entertainment complex.

If you work up an appetite, many Marunouchi landmarks have restaurants and food courts packed with options – try the Shin-Marunouchi Building or the KITTE Marunouchi shopping complex.

With millions of travelers passing through, Tokyo Station offers all kinds of quick and easy meals as well as bentō (boxed meal) sets, which are great for train journeys or picnics in the Imperial Palace East Garden .

Nihombashi, the location of Tokyo's original fish market for 300 years, is also a top culinary destination, with many venerable gourmet food shops and restaurants.

Being mainly business districts, Marunouchi and Nihombashi are not big spots for a night out, although plenty of bars and casual pub-restaurants are dotted around.

Where to stay in Marunouchi and Nihombashi: With central Tokyo Station at its heart and the imperial family as neighbors, the prestigious Marunouchi and Nihombashi neighborhoods don’t come cheap. Book a night at Hoshinoya Tokyo for a luxurious ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) experience right in the center of the city.

2. Ginza and Tsukiji

Best neighborhoods for upscale shopping.

Ginza is Tokyo's most polished neighborhood, a luxury fashion center resplendent with chic department stores, art galleries and exclusive restaurants.

Proudly ranking alongside Fifth Avenue and the Champs-Élysées, Ginza is one of the most famous shopping strips in the world. It's a compact area, but you could easily spend a day here sashaying from Mikimoto and Louis Vuitton to Uniqlo.

Ginza is also strong on small commercial art galleries and creative spaces sponsored by major corporations like Sony, Nissan and Mitsubishi.

A major attraction is the city’s dedicated kabuki theater, Kabukiza , devoted to Japan's ancient tradition of dance-drama.

The fantastical facade – a contemporary reimagination of a traditional Japanese theater – and the rooftop garden are worth a look even if you're not drawn by the plays performed here.

The famous wholesale fish, fruit and vegetable market at nearby Tsukiji shifted across Tokyo Bay to a new home in Toyosu in 2018. However, the area is still well worth visiting for the mouthwatering array of food-related businesses that fill the area around the old Tsukiji marketplace (formerly known as the “Outer Market”).

Ginza is famed for its high-end sushi counters, but amid the expense-account establishments, there are also plenty of more affordable dining and drinking options, including classy ramen bars.

The neighborhood's tiny and exclusive bars can easily bleed your wallet dry (should you manage to gain access in the first place) but there are affordable places to drink the night away as well; look for bars under the railway tracks from Yūrakuchō to Shimbashi.

Where to stay in Ginza and Tsukiji: Ginza’s central location and prestigious reputation generally mean pricey hotels, including The Tokyo EDITION  – a deluxe accommodation with lavish in-house dining. However, there are also some affordable business hotel chains and capsule hotels catering to travelers on a budget .

3. Roppongi and Akasaka

Best neighborhoods for nightlife.

Legendary for its nightlife, Roppongi is anchored by the chic Roppongi Hills and Tokyo Midtown complexes, where you'll find several excellent art museums , including the prestigious  Mori Art Museum .

To the south, you can't miss the city’s most famous symbol, the Tokyo Tower (it's nearly the same International Orange color as the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco), and nearby are a couple of venerable temples.

A short walk northeast is sophisticated Akasaka. Being close to Japan's parliament in Nagatachō gives Akasaka's watering holes an upmarket cachet. You'll also find a major Shintō shrine here, as well as an imperial palace and several Japanese gardens.

Roppongi and Akasaka are stacked with restaurants serving both Japanese and international cuisine. But don't despair if you are on a budget; both Roppongi Hills and Tokyo Midtown complexes have many affordable eating options to suit all tastes.

After dark, bars and nightlife are what Roppongi and Akasaka are all about – you'll have no problem locating a place to enjoy a booze-up or go wild dancing.

Where to stay in Roppongi and Akasaka: Both Roppongi and Akasaka are great places to base yourself, with good transport connections and a wealth of top-class eating, drinking and shopping options on the doorstep. Go high-end at Hotel Ōkura  if your budget allows, but there are also plenty of mid-range business hotels.

4. Ebisu and Meguro

Best neighborhoods for peace and quiet.

Ebisu and Meguro are gateways to a series of residential districts (some artsy , some upscale, some both) where Tokyo takes on a more human scale. The sights here are smaller and generally less crowded than those in the center.

There are some excellent art museums in Ebisu and Meguro, including the TOP Museum (the city’s photography museum) and the Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum .

Trend-setting boutiques abound in Daikanyama and Naka-Meguro. Bookmark this area for a day when you're looking to take it easy and set aside time for a stroll along the cherry tree-lined canal,  Meguro-gawa .

After hours, Ebisu has a dynamic dining and bar scene that's worth checking out even if you pass on the sights. In fact, this is the one occasion where you may have to contend with crowds – popular restaurants and bars are packed most nights of the week.

The lively Ebisu bar scene is particularly popular with young professionals; most places to drink are small (sometimes little more than a service counter) and it's fun to bounce from one to the next.

Where to stay in Ebisu and Meguro: Ebisu and Meguro are both stops on the convenient Yamanote train line , and you'll avoid the overwhelming crowds and disorienting sprawl of Shinjuku and Shibuya. Both make great bases for travelers but unfortunately, there are few places to stay beyond ordinary business hotels.

5. Shibuya 

Best neighborhood for youth culture.

Shibuya hits you over the head with its sheer presence: the continuous flow of people, the glowing video screens and the tangible buzz. 

This energy is perfectly summed up by its top attraction, the busy junction known as Shibuya Crossing .

This neighborhood is currently undergoing a massive transformation, evidenced by new developments such as  Shibuya Stream , a skyscraper complex marking the junction of two buried Tokyo rivers. 

Shibuya is a neighborhood that warrants a late start. Come for lunch or later – it is, above all, an entertainment district and it really comes alive at night. There are dance clubs, live music venues and movie theaters galore.

While weekends are the busiest, you’ll find people from all over Tokyo here any night of the week (and you may find yourself drawn back night after night by bars and karaoke parlors that stay open until dawn).

If you're keen to immerse yourself in urban Tokyo and its nightlife, Shibuya makes for a great base, and it's got great transport links, too.

For food, hang out around Shibuya Center-gai, which is packed with fast-food joints, cheap izakaya (informal bars) and chain restaurants aimed at a younger, cash-strapped crowd – not a bad thing!

Where to stay in Shibuya: Shibuya has some good accommodation options, among them boutique hotels (such as Hotel Indigo ), flash-packer hostels (such as Turntable ) and cabin-style capsule hotels (such as Millennials ).

6. Harajuku and Aoyama

Best neighborhoods for boutique shopping.

Harajuku is one of Tokyo's biggest draws thanks to the grand 20th-century shrine, Meiji-jingū , and adjacent Yoyogi-kōen , among the city's most popular parks .

It's also Tokyo's real-life catwalk, a world-renowned fashion destination where the ultra-chic (and chic in training) come to browse and be seen. Neighboring Aoyama, meanwhile, is a shopping and dining district for the city's fashionable elite.

Many boutiques in both districts – and along the boulevard, Omote-sandō , that runs between them – have been designed by influential architects.

Harajuku is a neighborhood that rewards an early start. Meiji-jingū can get very busy, so the earlier you get here, the more likely you are to experience the kind of serene atmosphere that does the shrine justice. Shopping is, of course, a major attraction for many, locals included.

Harajuku is also famous for being the location where foreign franchises drop their first Tokyo outlet, which usually attracts a lot of media buzz and some huge lines. There are boutiques from major

Japanese fashion brands in Aoyama and edgier looks can be found in the boutiques among the winding side streets on either side of Omote-sandō.

Then there's the trendy teen shopping strip, Takeshita-dōri , which by late afternoon will be positively packed with the young and hip.

As you'd expect from a trendy shopping district, Harajuku and Aoyama have lots of great, inexpensive lunch spots covering a variety of cuisines.

Both neighborhoods become pretty quiet after the shops close for the day; there are a handful of places with glowing windows after dark, but you have to know where to find them.

Where to stay in Harajuku and Aoyama : These two districts have very few sleeping options, which is a shame because both would otherwise be attractive places to stay, with lots of cafes and restaurants and good transportation links on both the JR Yamanote line and the subway. You can try nearby Shibuya, which has more options.

7. West Tokyo

Best neighborhood for going local.

During the boom years of the 1960s, the neighborhoods west of Shinjuku were developed as commuter towns for the capital's rapidly expanding population, with connections to the center on the Chūō train line.

Today they feel like time-capsules of mid-20th-century architecture and urban planning.

Neighborhoods such as Nakano, Kōenji, Asagaya and Nishi-Ogikubo are immensely popular with counter-culture types who reject the constant construction and upward trajectory of the city center. Their tastes are reflected in the eclectic shops, restaurants and bars found here.

What makes this part of Tokyo so fascinating is that each of the neighborhoods has developed its own unique culture. N

akano is popular with otaku (fans of anime and manga) while Kōenji, just one stop away, attracts street artists and social activists.

As these are largely residential districts, there are few splashy must-see sights; exploring this area is more about getting a feel for how Tokyoites see Tokyo.

The one big attraction out here is the enchanting Ghibli Museum , dedicated to Japan's most famous animated movie studio.

It would be tempting to write these residential neighborhoods off as sleepy; however, they are anything but. Each has its own nomiyagai (eating and drinking area) that draws locals in the evenings.

Of all the districts on the Chūō train line, Kōenji has the most going on after dark, with lots of shops that stay open late, plus restaurants, bars and live-music venues.

Where to stay in West Tokyo: Staying out west can save you a little money, as chain hotels are a bit cheaper out here. It's also a chance for a more local experience, as these are largely residential neighborhoods. BnA Hotel in Kōenji, which has works by local artists on the walls, is our top pick here. Having to take the often-crowded Chūō line to get anywhere can be a drag, but it does give you direct access to hubs such as Shinjuku and Tokyo Station in Marunouchi.

8. Shinjuku 

Best neighborhood for all-day exploration.

Shinjuku is almost a city within the city. Developed in the latter half of the 20th century, it's become synonymous with Tokyo itself.

The breadth and scale of this post-war development are simply awesome – more than three million people pass through Shinjuku train station every day.

Clustered in and around this enormous train station are many department and electronics stores, which make easy work of shopping for souvenirs, plus plenty of restaurants and food courts.

On the east side of the station, the grassy oasis of Shinjuku-gyoen is great for a picnic (and a breather); pick up snacks in one of the department store basement food halls.

Shinjuku works neatly as a day-to-night destination. Start with the skyscraper district of Nishi-Shinjuku – you'll have the streets to yourself if you come after 10am to avoid the morning rush.

Morning is usually the clearest time of day and thus your best chance to see Mt Fuji from the free observatories atop the  Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building .

Shinjuku's east side, home to the city’s largest nightlife district, really shines at night – quite literally. Come here at dusk as natural light gives way to arresting artificial neon, and Tokyo takes on an alluring glow.

There are myriad bars, izakaya , karaoke parlors, music spots and more to keep you entertained until dawn. While Friday nights are the most crowded, Shinjuku buzzes every night of the week.

Shinjuku is so large, in fact, that it contains multiple sub-districts.

Shinjuku-nichōme is Tokyo's LGBTIQ+ enclave, Shinjuku-sanchōme is full of izakaya,  popular with commuters stopping off on their way home, and the tiny bars of Golden Gai are a draw for artists, musicians and, increasingly, travelers.

Running through the middle of this is Yasukuni-dōri, the main artery, electrified with a thousand glowing signs.

Where to stay in Shinjuku: Shinjuku is a convenient base, popular with travelers and with options at all price levels. Splurge on a room at the sky-high luxury hotel, the Park Hyatt Tokyo , or hole up at hostel-slash-reading-room, Book and Bed . This neighborhood has a huge spread of eating options , and there's little you can't get here.

9. Kōrakuen and Akihabara

Best neighborhoods for old customs and new trends.

Kōrakuen and Akihabara occupy a swath of central Tokyo running alongside Soto-bōri, the former outer moat of Edo Castle, and the Kanda River, one of the city’s main waterways.

To the west, there's the charming old geisha district of Kagurazaka, and the Kōrakuen area, home to the gorgeous traditional garden, Koishikawa Kōrakuen, and the Tokyo Dome baseball stadium.

Further east, browse the bookshops of Jimbōchō, the traditional restaurants of Kanda and the electronics, pop culture and contemporary-craft emporiums of Akihabara.

Kagurazaka has many exclusive, extravagantly priced restaurants, but there are some attractive affordable options too. Once a busy geisha teahouse area, this is now one of the most atmospheric parts of the city to wander around at night and find a nice cafe or bar.

Where to stay in Kōrakuen and Akihabara: Kōrakuen, Kanda, Kagurazaka and Akihabara are all central locations with good transport connections and great eating and nightlife on hand. This area has plenty of budget and mid-range accommodations. Within walking distance of downtown Akihabara near Asakusa-bashi subway station is a branch of the futuristic  Henn na Hotel , a unique hotel staffed by robot receptionists. Keep an eye out for the reopening of the 1930s art deco Hilltop Hotel, a one-time hangout for the Tokyo literati, currently closed for renovations.

10. Ueno and Yanesen

Best neighborhoods for museums.

Ueno is the cultural heart of Tokyo. Its central park, Ueno-kōen , has the city's greatest concentration of museums , including the Tokyo National Museum .

The neighboring areas of Yanaka, Nezu and Sendagi are collectively known as Yanesen – a charming part of Tokyo where it feels as though time stopped several decades ago. Transporting you even further back in time is the beautiful 18th-century strolling garden, Rikugi-en , the highlight of the Komagome area.

Ueno isn’t much of a culinary destination, although there are some lovely traditional restaurants in and around the park, and also in Yanesen.

With the exception of the area immediately around Ueno Station, these districts are pretty quiet at night, though Yanaka has a few hip hangouts.

Where to stay in Ueno and Yanesen: As one of the major gateways in and out of Tokyo, Ueno is well stocked with business hotels – Nohga Hotel is the most attractive of the bunch. Yanesen, meanwhile, has Tokyo’s best selection of ryokan . Family-run Sawanoya Ryokan , which has a wonderfully welcoming vibe, has long been a traveler favorite.

11. Asakusa and Sumida River

Best neighborhoods for tradition.

On the banks of the Sumida River, Tokyo's eastern neighborhoods have an old-fashioned feel, with venerable temples and shrines, lovely gardens, traditional restaurants and artisan shops.

Zone in on Asakusa's famously atmospheric Buddhist temple complex, Sensō-ji , and the sumo hotspot of Ryōgoku, home to the ancient sport's main Tokyo stadium and a top-class history museum, the Edo-Tokyo Museum  (currently closed for renovations until late 2025-early 2026).

Asakusa is one of Tokyo's principal tourist destinations, and during the day it's pretty much jam-packed.

If you step off the main drag though, you'll find fewer tourists and the craft shops and small restaurants that have long defined these quarters.

Walking around the peaceful neighborhoods east of the Sumida River gives a good feel for the culture of old Tokyo. These districts are not without their pockets of hipster cool either, thanks to cheaper rents compared to the city center.

Asakusa offers an abundance of street food stalls selling unpretentious Japanese dishes, generally at modest prices. You'll also find some of the city's longest-running and most traditional restaurants here.

Overall, this neighborhood is one of Tokyo's quieter areas for nightlife, and it gets even snoozier on the east side of the Sumida River.

Where to stay in Asakusa and Sumida River: Asakusa is Tokyo's budget traveler center. If you're looking to meet up with other travelers, this is the best place to stay. There are loads of hostels to choose from – our favorite is Nui , whose first-floor cafe is a popular local hangout. There are also several business-class and tourist-oriented hotels here as well as some excellent ryokan . The main downside of staying in this area is its relative distance from other central Tokyo districts.

12. Odaiba and Tokyo Bay

Best neighborhoods for families.

In central Tokyo, it’s easy to forget this city started as a seaside town. This is not the case in Odaiba , a collection of artificial islands on Tokyo Bay.

One of Odaiba's biggest selling points – in addition to its views of the bay and the Tokyo skyline – is its family-friendly feel .

Attractions include the hands-on National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (which has live demonstrations of humanoid robots), the augmented reality arcade Tokyo Joypolis , and a massive statue of the anime character Unicorn Gundam – perhaps the most only-in-Tokyo sight imaginable!

Adjacent to Odaiba is the island of Toyosu, home to the city's new wholesale market, which replaced the iconic Tsukiji Market in 2018.

The best place to eat around Tokyo Bay is at the new Toyosu Market , which has several floors of restaurants – among them some truly excellent sushi shops (naturally), and some superior shokudō (inexpensive casual restaurants) and cafes. Odaiba's malls are packed with mostly uninspiring but family-friendly food courts and chain restaurants.

Odaiba is a daytime destination and has little to offer at night beyond expensive and somewhat old-fashioned hotel bars (which admittedly have good bay views), although the late-closing immersive  teamLab Planets  sensory exhibition has become a stand-out and promises to be around until the end of 2027.

Another good family-inclusive attraction with evening hours is Ōedo Onsen , a theme park-esque public bathing facility in Urayasu with mixed gender swimsuit baths. 

Where to stay in Odaiba and Tokyo Bay: Accommodation options in Odaiba and around Tokyo Bay are limited to a few dated resorts and business hotels, though new developments are in the works. Transportation from this district to the rest of the city is costly and tedious – unless Odaiba is the focus of your visit, we recommend basing yourself elsewhere and visiting for the day. If, however, you are looking for fully self-contained apartments on a budget and can stand the commute, this area has affordable rentals in abundance.

This article was first published May 28, 2021 and updated Apr 3, 2024.

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Plan Your Trip to Tokyo: Best of Tokyo Tourism

Tokyo, Japan

Travel advice, essential tokyo.

Where to stay

Where to eat

How to spend 7 days in Tokyo

The Best Free Things to Do in Tokyo

Browse collections

More Asian cultural capitals

Tokyo Travel Guide

Travelers' pro tips or experiencing tokyo.

Tokyo is so much easier to get around in than you expect before you get there. It is crowded and busy but organized and sensible (as opposed to, say, Rome or Los Angeles). The system of subways and trains can be daunting because there are so many, but you can get anywhere you want to go with a good station map.

Don't ask for "bathroom,” ask for "toilet.” I'm terrible at picking up a new language, but I managed to make it through. Usually, I'd say something in mangled Japanese, then would get a response in English.

Bargainhunter

Get maps and travel information in English before your trip and at tourist information booths in large Japanese cities.

I see Tokyo as the perfect balance of opposite elements. The size and scale bring a sense of chaos yet everything seems to flow and work in perfect order. It balances a wonderful history with modern and edge. It is vast but offers intimate small experiences that are hard to replicate. It is a perfect balance of contradictions that draw you in and leave you with a sense of wonder.

Whether you're visiting for business or leisure, to glimpse into history at the Imperial Palace and its many cherry blossom studded shrines, or to peek into the future in districts like electronic paradise Akihabara and edgy, fashionable Shinjuku, Tokyo will cater to almost every curiosity. A cradle of politics, culture, and business for Japan, Tokyo offers an almost limitless variety of entertainment, shopping, dining, and alternative opinions.

jessicawhylee

Given all of Tokyo's skyscrapers and salarymen, it's easy to assume that the city is a barren urban wasteland without a breath of fresh air to punctuate its high-tech and industrialized neighborhoods. But between all those glittering shopping centers and glass business buildings are pockets of beautiful parks, serene walking paths, and tranquil temple and shrine gardens — all helping you to slow down and take a breather.

Something old, something new, and something delicious — just for you. Everyone loves a good meal, and in Tokyo— Japan's greatest metropolis — there seem to be good meals on offer at every turn. From ramen bars to all-you-can-eat izakaya, to traditional sushi restaurants where steaming cups of green tea accompany flawless cuts of sashimi, to ultra-modern cafes where girls in French Rococo-inspired outfits dig into dainty, creamy cakes, and decorated coffees...

EmiliaStockholm

Tokyo has everything, great shopping, excellent restaurants, neon-lighted hustle and bustle, and nice quiet places to walk around.

What is the best way to get there?

Tokyo is serviced by two major airports, Narita and Haneda. Haneda is closer to the city.

You can find more information  here .

The Japan rail network is extensive and trains from other cities could arrive in multiple stations in Tokyo. The most serviced would include Tokyo Station, Shibuya Station and Shinjuku Station. Shinjuku is known as the world’s busiest train station. For bullet trains (shinkansen), the stations are Tokyo Station and Shinagawa Station.

Do I need a visa?

Currently, citizens from 68 countries can travel into Japan visa-free. Please check on your eligibility and visa information  here .

When is the best time to visit?

October to February: Tokyo is a great destination all year round. However, the summer months can be excruciatingly hot. Avoid July, August, and early September if you don’t like to sweat as the average temperature over these months hovers at 85 Fahrenheit (29 Celsius). Tokyo’s high season falls between mid-March to late April, especially because many domestic and foreign travelers like to come at that time to see the cherry blossoms. Similarly, October and early November are peak times to view the fall foliage.

On the ground

What is the timezone.

Japan Standard Time

What are the voltage/plug types?

Typically these are 100 Volts / 50-60 Hz. (You will occasionally find 200 Volt outlets for larger appliances like air-conditioning units.) Plugs are Type A and B.

What is the currency?

The Japanese Yen.

Are ATMs readily accessible?

Are credit cards widely accepted.

Yes and no. Many high-end restaurants and small shops are cash only. Major departments stores and hotels will usually accept credit cards. It is always advisable in Japan to carry cash.

Is it easy to find a bank?

How much do i tip.

No need to tip. In general, restaurants are not used to receiving tips at all. Tipping is accepted on very limited occasions. You could tell a taxi driver that you don't need changes after paying the fare, they would accept the change as a tip (but they don't really expect to receive it). When you are visiting some bars, you could buy a bar master a drink if you are having a really good time instead of tipping.

Are there local customs I should know?

Blowing your nose.

Try not to blow your nose in public, and avoid both eating and drinking on the street (ok in parks). It is considered rude.

Counting your change

Do not count change in view of the person who gave it to you. It is also considered rude.

Public transportation

Try to be quiet in trains, at restaurants, and at your hotel. Japanese culture puts great emphasis on consideration for others and maintaining a quiet and harmonious atmosphere.

Remove your shoes when entering private homes, ryokans, and even some restaurants and offices.

If you have a tattoo, forget trying to visit a Japanese hot spring. Unless you have booked a hotel room with a private bath, you won’t be able to enter.

For more observations on customs in Japan,  here's  a useful site.

• Toyoko Inn Asakusa Kuramae NO. 2
• Soho Asakusa
• Unito Chiyoda
• M-1 Tokyo Shimomaruko
• Hotel Atlas Shinkabukicho
• EatWith: Tomoko of Tokyo
• EatWith: Yuma of Tokyo
• EatWith: Ayaka of Tokyo
• EatWith: Ayako of Tokyo
• Ramen Jiro Kaminoge
• Nintendo Store Tokyo
• Tokyo Metro
• Meguro River
• Sumida River
• Nikko one day trip guide with Private transportation
• Private Car Mt Fuji and Gotemba Outlet in One Day from Tokyo
• Full Day Hiking Tour at Mt.Takao including Hot Spring
• Exciting Nikko - One Day Tour from Tokyo
• Tokyo Fuji Art Museum Admission Ticket + Special Exhibition (when being held)