Are you planning a trip to Tokyo and wondering how to spend your time in the city’s bustling tech hub? Look no further than Akihabara, also known as Electric Town. This area is a haven for technology enthusiasts, gamers, anime fans, and foodies alike. Here are 10 exciting things to do in Akihabara that will make your visit to Tokyo unforgettable.
Explore the Electric Town
First things first, take a stroll through the Akihabara streets and soak in the neon lights and vibrant energy of the area. You’ll find everything from towering buildings filled with electronics to small shops that sell quirky gadgets.
As you wander through the bustling streets of Akihabara, you’ll notice that the area is not just a hub for electronics but also a cultural center for anime and manga lovers. You will find many shops selling anime merchandise and cosplay costumes that will transport you to the world of your favorite anime.
Visit Yodobashi Camera
Don’t miss a visit to Yodobashi Camera, a massive complex that stocks every conceivable gadget under one roof. This store has 9 floors of electronics, cameras, and even an amusement park on the rooftop. The sheer scale of Yodobashi Camera is a sight to behold.
As you walk through the aisles of Yodobashi Camera, you will find everything from the latest smartphones to the most advanced drones. The store also offers a wide range of cameras and lenses for photography enthusiasts. If you’re a gaming fan, you can check out the latest gaming consoles and accessories.
Browse the Akihabara Radio Kaikan
Another must-visit spot for tech enthusiasts is the Akihabara Radio Kaikan building. This 11-story building offers a variety of shops selling everything from anime merchandise to retro arcade games.
The Akihabara Radio Kaikan building is a treasure trove for retro gaming fans. You can find classic arcade games such as Pac-Man and Space Invaders, as well as vintage consoles like the Nintendo Entertainment System and the Sega Genesis. The building also has many shops selling anime figurines and collectibles.
Discover the Latest Gadgets at Sofmap
Sofmap is a tech lover’s paradise with floors dedicated to gaming, cameras, and computer equipment. If you’re looking for a new gadget, this is the place to check out the latest trends.
In addition to the latest gadgets, Sofmap also offers a wide range of computer peripherals such as keyboards, mice, and monitors. If you’re a music lover, you can check out the store’s collection of headphones and speakers. And if you’re a DIY enthusiast, you can find all the components you need to build your own computer.
Overall, Akihabara is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in electronics, anime, and gaming. With its vibrant energy and endless array of shops, it’s a place that will leave you feeling inspired and excited.
Dive into Anime and Manga Culture
Akihabara is a district in Tokyo that is famous for its vibrant anime and manga culture. It is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves Japanese pop culture. In addition to the shops and cafes dedicated to popular anime characters, there are many other things to explore in Akihabara.
One of the best places to start your adventure is at Animate. This popular store specializes in character goods, manga, and anime DVDs. You can find merchandise from your favorite anime series, such as figurines, keychains, and even cosplay costumes. The store is a paradise for anime and manga fans, and you can easily spend hours browsing the shelves.
Shop at Animate
At Animate, you can find a wide range of anime and manga-related items. The store has a huge selection of manga, from the latest releases to classic titles. If you’re looking for anime DVDs, Animate has a great selection of both new and old series. You can also find a variety of character goods, such as plush toys, keychains, and posters.
If you’re a hardcore anime fan, you’ll love the cosplay section at Animate. You can find everything you need to create your own cosplay costume, from wigs to accessories. The store also hosts events and signings with popular anime and manga creators, so be sure to check their schedule before you visit.
Experience Mandarake Complex
If you’re looking for rare and hard-to-find anime and manga collectibles, the Mandarake Complex is the place to go. This multi-story building is filled with shops that specialize in rare and vintage items. You can find everything from vintage manga to limited edition figurines.
The Mandarake Complex is a must-visit destination for serious anime and manga collectors. The shops are organized by category, so you can easily find what you’re looking for. The staff are knowledgeable and friendly, and they can help you find the perfect item for your collection.
Attend a Themed Cafe
One of the unique things about Akihabara is the variety of themed cafes. These cafes offer a unique dining experience, where you can enjoy themed food and drinks while surrounded by the atmosphere of your favorite anime or manga series.
One of the most popular themed cafes in Akihabara is the maid cafe. In a maid cafe, the waitresses dress in maid costumes and treat you like a master or mistress. The cafes often have a cute and girly atmosphere, and the food and drinks are usually decorated with cute designs.
If you’re a cat lover, you’ll want to visit one of the many cat cafes in Akihabara. These cafes are filled with friendly cats that you can pet and play with while you enjoy your coffee or tea. The cafes are a great place to relax and unwind, and they’re especially popular with tourists.
Overall, Akihabara is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves anime and manga. Whether you’re a serious collector or just a casual fan, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant district.
Enjoy Japanese Arcade Gaming
Arcade games are an essential part of Japanese culture, and Akihabara has some of the best arcades in the country. If you’re a gamer or just love playing classic arcade games, you’ll find plenty of options here.
Test Your Skills at Taito Station
Taito Station is one of the biggest arcades in Akihabara, and it has a wide variety of games to choose from. Whether you’re a fan of rhythm games, fighting games, or classic arcade games, you’re sure to find something to play here.
One of the most popular games at Taito Station is the iconic Space Invaders. This game was first released in 1978 and has since become a classic. You can also test your skills at the rhythm game Dance Dance Revolution, or try your hand at the fighting game Tekken.
Discover Retro Games at Super Potato
If you’re a fan of retro gaming, be sure to visit Super Potato. This store specializes in vintage games and consoles from the 80s and 90s, and even has items that are hard to find elsewhere. Nostalgia is in the air at Super Potato!
Super Potato is a treasure trove of retro gaming goodness. You can find classic consoles like the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) and the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), as well as rare games like EarthBound and Final Fantasy III. The store also has a collection of vintage gaming magazines and strategy guides.
Experience Virtual Reality at VR Zone Shinjuku
If you’re looking for something more cutting-edge, VR Zone Shinjuku offers immersive virtual reality experiences. Strap on a VR headset and immerse yourself in worlds that were once impossible to visit in real life. This experience is not to be missed!
At VR Zone Shinjuku, you can experience a variety of virtual reality games and simulations. One of the most popular experiences is the Mario Kart Arcade GP VR, where you can race against your friends in a virtual Mario Kart world. You can also try your hand at virtual reality shooting games, or experience what it’s like to be a giant robot in the Gundam VR experience.
No matter what kind of gaming experience you’re looking for, Akihabara has something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of classic arcade games, retro consoles, or cutting-edge virtual reality, you’re sure to have a great time in this gaming paradise.
Indulge in Akihabara’s Unique Dining Scene
Last but not least, be sure to sample some of the unique foods available in Akihabara. The area has something for everyone, from Japanese curry to themed cafes.
Savor a Meal at Gundam Cafe
The Gundam Cafe is a must-visit spot for fans of the Gundam anime series. Here you can enjoy themed food and drinks while surrounded by life-size Gundam figures.
But did you know that the Gundam Cafe also offers a unique experience for visitors? You can create your own custom Gundam plastic model kit while enjoying your meal. The staff will provide you with all the necessary tools and materials to make your own miniature Gundam figure. It’s a fun and creative way to spend your time at the cafe!
Taste Authentic Japanese Curry at Go! Go! Curry!
If you’re looking for something savory, check out Go! Go! Curry!. This restaurant offers delicious Japanese curry that is a staple of Japanese cuisine.
Their signature dish is the “Grand Slam” curry, which is a hearty serving of rice and curry topped with pork cutlets, sausages, and a boiled egg. It’s a filling and satisfying meal that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized for your next adventure in Akihabara.
Enjoy a Sweet Treat at Honey Toast Cafe
For a sweet treat, be sure to check out the Honey Toast Cafe. Here you can indulge in tasty desserts like honey toast and parfaits while surrounded by a cozy atmosphere.
Their honey toast is a must-try, as it’s a thick slice of toast topped with whipped cream, ice cream, and drizzled with honey. It’s a perfect dessert for those with a sweet tooth. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try their matcha parfait, which is a delicious blend of green tea ice cream, red bean paste, and mochi.
But the Honey Toast Cafe isn’t just about the food. The decor of the cafe is also worth noting, as it’s filled with cute and whimsical decorations that will transport you to a magical world. From the fairy lights to the plush cushions, every detail is designed to make you feel relaxed and happy.
In conclusion, Akihabara is a vibrant and exciting place that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, gamer, anime fan, or foodie, there are endless ways to enjoy this unique part of Tokyo. So what are you waiting for? Grab your cameras and explore the best of Akihabara!