Places to Go in Tokyo, Japan for Anime and Manga Fans
Beyond the well-known Akihabara stores, Tokyo has a thriving Otaku culture. With areas devoted to honoring the art of manga and anime as well as museums and bookshops, the city is a veritable gold mine for lovers. Explore the best places for shopping, sightseeing, and binge-watching your favorite shows and films by diving into our carefully crafted guide!
Contents of this Page:
- Anime Museums: A Journey Through Japanese Animation
- Tokyo’s Anime and Manga Districts: A Fan’s Paradise
- Tokyo’s Manga Shopping Guide
- Exploring Tokyo Through Anime Eyes: A Fan’s Guide
- Tokyo’s Anime Merchandise Havens: A Collector’s Guide
Anime Museums: A Journey Through Japanese Animation
Anime museums provide an insight into the development, output, and prominent personalities of Japanese animation.
Ghibli Museum: A Whimsical World Awaits
Visit the Ghibli Museum to enter a nostalgic universe where the magical world of Hayao Miyazaki is brought to life. When you first arrive, you are greeted by a massive robot from “Castle in the Sky” and a hospitable Totoro. Discover the rich history of animation and Studio Ghibli’s distinct filmmaking methods. Take in unique short films and visit temporary displays that highlight everything from storyboarding to the delicious cuisine that is shown in Ghibli movies.
Note: It may be difficult to get tickets to this enchanted museum. A month before your visit, tickets may be purchased in Lawson shops throughout Japan. For a hassle-free experience, overseas fans should steer clear of scalpers and think about using reputable third-party sources.
Suginami Animation Museum: Behind the Scenes of Anime Creation
Located in the heart of Suginami, the anime production center, the Suginami Animation Museum provides an intimate look at the anime development process, from the first sketches to the final broadcast. Explore interactive exhibitions that put you in the shoes of an anime artist, journey through a historical chronology of anime, and see state-of-the-art animation equipment. Inspiration may be found in the museum’s fourth-floor library and DVD collection, while the fifth floor is dedicated to workshops and temporary exhibitions honoring the anime medium’s artistic tradition.
Toei Animation Museum: Celebrating a Legacy
The birthplace of Japanese animation, Nerima City, is home to homages to classic figures like Astro Boy and Tomorrow’s Joe. A visit to the museum of Toei Oizumi Animation Studio unveils an immense collection of artifacts from renowned television shows including Sailor Moon, One Piece, and Dragonball. For any anime fan, a full day of discovery is provided with interactive exhibits, life-size character sculptures, and an imaginative courtyard area.
Tokyo’s Anime and Manga Districts: A Fan’s Paradise
One must-do experience in Tokyo is strolling around the anime hubs!
Akihabara: The Heart of Otaku Culture
Akihabara stands as the undisputed mecca for anime, manga, and video game enthusiasts. Brimming with specialty shops, it’s a vibrant hub that comes alive, especially on Sundays when the main street becomes pedestrian-only. Amidst the merchandise heaven, don’t miss the eclectic mix of electronics stores, themed cafes like the Gundam Cafe, and multi-level arcades that offer endless entertainment.
Odaiba: A Futuristic Anime Playground
Originally planned as a residential zone, Odaiba has transformed into a futuristic tourist hotspot. It’s a must-visit for mecha aficionados, boasting the impressive Unicorn Gundam statue and the Gundam Base store. The island also features the iconic Fuji Television Headquarters and Tokyo Big Sight, known for hosting major events like AnimeJapan and Comiket.
Ikebukuro: A Niche for Female Anime Fans
Ikebukuro offers a unique anime culture experience with its female-oriented shops and bookstores. Otome Road is the go-to spot for a vast selection of manga, games, and exclusive merchandise. Keep an eye out for cosplay events and indulge in the novelty of being served by dashing butlers at the Swallowtail Cafe.
Nakano: The Offbeat Anime Enclave
For those seeking an authentic slice of Tokyo, Nakano’s Sun Mall is a hidden gem. This shopping arcade leads to Nakano Broadway, a complex teeming with second-hand stores, anime and idol goods, and collectibles. Dive into the side streets for an array of dining options, from cozy izakayas to casual snack bars.
Tokyo’s Manga Shopping Guide
Manga may be found in nearly all Japanese bookstores, but finding English translations will take some time and effort. The majority of translated manga publications originate from North American publishing houses, while English-language manga publications in Japan are quite rare. It’s not insurmountable, though! If you’re an avid hunter and would want titles in English, these are some places you should visit.
Kinokuniya Takashimaya Shinjuku: A Multilingual Book Haven
One of Japan’s biggest book chains, Kinokuniya, has a separate area for foreign languages. Situated on the south side of Shinjuku Station, the Takashimaya Shinjuku branch has an amazing assortment of books in English, French, and German, among other languages. Manga fans may find a wide variety of art books, volumes of historical manga, and novels that are ideal for a lengthy travel here.
Mandarake in Nakano Broadway: The Second-Hand Manga Emporium
Having outlets in Akihabara, Shibuya, and Ikebukuro, Mandarake is a major player in the comic book retail industry and has a considerable presence in Tokyo. But the more than thirty Mandarake stores in the Nakano Broadway complex stand out; these stores specialize on different genres, like as mecha and magical girls. Explore the vast collection of used manga and get incredible discounts.
Book Off in Akihabara: Where Fortune Favors the Bold
Known for its vintage finds, Book Off is a link in a wider network that also includes Mode Off for clothes and Hard Off for gadgets. Particularly the Akihabara shop, which features a changing assortment of English manga titles, is a popular destination for otaku travelers and foreigners alike. The store tempts you with video games and valuable figurines, but what you find depends on your luck.
Exploring Tokyo Through Anime Eyes: A Fan’s Guide
You can quickly check where some of your favorite manga and anime characters live and socialize! When visiting these locations, take photos and recreate scenarios.
Sailor Moon’s Azabu Juban
Step inside the lovely Azabu Juban area, the real-world equivalent of the animated streets where Sailor Moon and her pals go on adventures. Nestled between the famed Roppongi Hills and the Tokyo Tower, this stylish area combines residential tranquility with a thriving business district. Fans may follow in Serena and the gang’s footsteps, since the anime’s depiction of the area’s roads, stations, and businesses is surprisingly realistic.
Rei and her grandpa dedicate their time to the tranquil Azabu Hikawa Shrine, also known as the Hikawa Shrine in the anime. To identify this exact temple among Tokyo’s numerous similarly called sanctuaries, remember to include “Azabu” in your search criteria. Discover the charming monument inspired by the nursery rhyme “Red Shoes,” which depicts a pig-tailed child and pays homage to the story of a Japanese girl adopted by a Western family.
Kimetsu no Yaiba (Demon Slayer)’s Asakusa
Immerse yourself in Kimetsu no Yaiba (Demon Slayer), Tanjiro’s Tokyo voyage, which takes place in the ancient Asakusa area. Walk down Nakamise Street, a bustling retail street that leads to the beautiful Asakusa Sensoji Temple. This 400-year-old market is a treasure trove of traditional Japanese toys and sweets, attracting travelers from all over the world seeking blessings and unusual gifts.
Ultraman’s Galactic Legacy
Fans may visit the Ultraman Shopping District in Kinuta, which honors the renowned hero from Galaxy M78. Visitors to Shoshigaya-Okura Station are greeted with an Ultraman monument and may peruse stores stocked with Ultraman merchandise, as well as sculptures of Zoffy, Ultraman, and Ultraman Jack floating overhead.
Steins;Gate’s Akihabara
Explore Akihabara, Tokyo’s electrifying center, where Okabe’s time-traveling adventures take place in Steins;Gate. Visit Cafe Mailish, the real-life inspiration for the May Queen Nyan maid cafe, and visit sights like as the Akiba Shrine and Kanda Fureai Bridge, which are important to the show’s plot.
The Boy and the Beast’s Shibuya
Explore Shibuya’s busy streets, where the parallel worlds of The Boy and the Beast converge. Witness the iconic Shibuya Crossing, a key film location, and accompany Kyuta and Kaede as they negotiate the bustling Center-Gai retail district, ending in the film’s dramatic showdown at Yoyogi National Stadium.
Odaiba: A Portal to the Digital World in Digimon Adventure
In Digimon Adventure, take a nostalgic tour around Odaiba, the gorgeous background for many of the Digidestined’s earthly experiences. This man-made island is more than simply a prominent setting in the series; it also houses a plethora of monuments that every Digimon fan would know. As you reach Odaiba, the Ferris Wheel, Rainbow Bridge, and Telecom Centre stand out, having adorned the show’s background and engraved themselves into viewers’ minds.
The island also contains places crucial to the series’ plot. Tokyo Big Sight becomes a significant location where Vamdemon takes the citizens hostage in his search for the eighth kid. This theater also hosts the bustling AnimeJapan convention in March, which is a must-see for anime fans. The striking design of the Fuji TV building, just a stone’s throw away, symbolizes the location of the climactic confrontation with Myotismon, adding to the thrill for tourists tracking their favorite characters’ footsteps.
Tokyo’s Anime Merchandise Havens: A Collector’s Guide
Check out these shops if you’re seeking for franchise-specific stuff!
Unleash Your Inner Trainer at Tokyo’s Pokemon Centers
Since its inception in 1996, Pokemon has captured the hearts of fans worldwide. While you might stumble upon Pokemon merchandise in various souvenir shops, nothing beats the experience of visiting a Pokemon Center. These are not just stores; they’re sanctuaries for fans of the franchise. Here’s a guide to the Pokemon Centers in Tokyo, each offering a unique slice of the Pokemon universe:
Pokemon Center TOKYO DX & Pokemon Cafe
Nestled within the venerable Nihonbashi Takashimaya department store, this Pokemon Center welcomes you with a dazzling array of plushies and household items adorned with beloved Pokemon. The adjacent Pokemon Cafe tantalizes with character-themed dishes like Pikachu Curry and Snorlax Lunch Plate. Remember, reservations are essential for this culinary adventure.
Pokemon Center MEGA TOKYO & Pikachu Sweets
Ascend to the second floor of Sunshine City in Ikebukuro to discover Pokemon Center MEGA TOKYO, the only place where you can snag the coveted Pikachu-Mega Charizard Y plush toy. Next door, Pikachu Sweets offers a delightful takeaway menu, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth on the go.
Pokemon Center Shibuya
Step into the future at the high-tech Pokemon Center Shibuya, located in the revamped Shibuya Parco. Here, an animatronic Mewtwo and an interactive Pokedex exhibit await to enhance your shopping experience amidst a plethora of digital and subcultural delights.
Pokemon Center SKYTREE TOWN
At the base of Tokyo SkyTree, the towering Solamachi shopping center houses a Pokemon Center where the majestic Rayquaza serves as the mascot. With over 2500 Pokemon items, including the exclusive Pikachu-Rayquaza plushie, this location promises a sky-high shopping spree.
Pokemon Center TOKYO-BAY
Just a short journey from Tokyo Disneyland in Chiba Prefecture, Pokemon Center TOKYO-BAY is a paradise for arcade enthusiasts. Engage in Pokemon Ga Ole battles, capture wild Pokemon, and collect disks to continue your quest in future games.
Embrace the World of Hello Kitty at Sanrio’s Tokyo Outposts
Sanrio, the trailblazer of Japan’s pop culture, invites you to explore the enchanting world of Hello Kitty and friends. Tokyo boasts a variety of exclusive locations where fans can immerse themselves in the charm of these iconic characters. Here’s your guide to the ultimate Sanrio shopping experience:
Hello Kitty Japan DiverCity Tokyo Plaza
Dive into the world of Sanrio at one of Japan’s largest stores located in DiverCity shopping mall. This haven offers exclusive products for both kids and adults. Don’t miss the Hello Kitty no Kongariyaki Cafe, where themed confections like cakes, ice creams, and mochi await to delight your taste buds.
Hello Kitty Japan TOKYO SKYTREE TOWN SOLAMACHI
On Solamachi’s fourth floor, this cozy Sanrio shop may be smaller in size but is the exclusive source for Skytree-themed Hello Kitty merchandise, making it a must-visit for unique finds.
Sanrioworld GINZA
The flagship store in Ginza presents the world’s most extensive collection of Sanrio characters. Spanning two floors, shoppers can explore a plethora of exclusive items, from suitcases and teapots to jewelry that beautifully melds your favorite characters with traditional Japanese design.
Sanrio Gift Gate Adhoc SHINJUKU
Capture memories beside the world’s largest Hello Kitty monument at this whimsical store. Offering a diverse range of products including suit ties, cosmetics, and clothing for all ages, it’s a paradise for fans. The collectible Gacha-Gacha toys near the entrance are a fun bonus.
Sanrio Gift Gate Ikebukuro Store
Situated on the lively Sunshine street, the Ikebukuro store features a ground floor filled with toys, apparel, and bags, while the second floor houses stylish interior items. Exclusive Hello Kitty popcorn and limited-edition drinks make for perfect treats or souvenirs.
Harajuku’s Sailor Moon Boutique
Harajuku’s permanent Sailor Moon store is a dreamland for fans, with its walls adorned in pink and glitter, mirroring the series’ aesthetic. Here, you can find a treasure trove of memorabilia, including manga and accessories representing each Sailor Scout. The coveted Crescent Moon Wand toy and chibi dolls of Sailor Moon in her Princess Serenity dress are among the most sought-after items. For travelers, the store offers portable treasures like keychains, cosmetics, and phone cases.
Shibuya’s Mugiwara One Piece Store
Shibuya’s Mugiwara store is the official One Piece merchandise haven. The unique decor, featuring straw hats as lampshades, sets the adventurous mood. The shop is stocked with an array of items, from plates and snacks to socks adorned with Luffy and his crew. Life-size figurines and a themed photo booth offer fans a chance to capture their visit memorably. Manga enthusiasts and collectors will also appreciate the section dedicated to manga and exclusive goods.
Ghibli’s Donguri Kyowakoku at Tokyo SkyTree
Donguri Kyowakoku stores are scattered throughout Tokyo, but the Solamachi location stands out with its welcoming Totoro cutout. This store is a sanctuary for Ghibli aficionados, offering plush toys, figurines, kitchenware, linens, and accessories. The Donguri Bank initiative allows customers to contribute to reforestation efforts on Shikoku Island, reflecting the environmental ethos of Miyazaki’s works.
DiverCity’s Gundam Base
The Gundam Base at DiverCity is a must-visit for fans of the Gundam series. The transforming RX-0 Unicorn Gundam statue is a striking landmark. Inside, the store features a cultural and commercial hub with photo opportunities with characters across the Gundam universe and models crafted by renowned artists. The merchandise ranges from subtle to overt Gundam designs, and model kits are available with expert guidance for assembly.
Ikebukuro’s Evangelion Store
P’Parco in Ikebukuro houses the sole official Evangelion store in Japan, a mecca for fans of the franchise. The product range includes everything from understated keychains to bold NERV logo items. Detailed t-shirts showcasing Tokyo-III, school supplies featuring the pilots, and accessories echoing the units’ color schemes are available for fans to express their affinity for the series.
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