Curator’s statement
Tokyo, Japan, and its surrounding cities are a paradise for anime and gaming enthusiasts, offering an immersive journey into the heart of Japanese pop culture. In Tokyo’s Akihabara, known as the “electric town,” visitors can explore specialty shops, retro arcades and themed cafes dedicated to beloved anime and video games. Nearby attractions like the Studio Ghibli Museum in Mitaka bring the magic of storytelling to life. Gaming fans can enjoy cutting-edge VR experiences and vintage game shops. Yokohama’s life-sized moving Gundam at the Gundam Factory and Saitama’s Railway Museum, often celebrated in anime, add to the excitement. There are vibrant cosplay events, massive conventions and countless opportunities to connect with the creative energy of this cultural phenomenon. Tokyo and its neighboring cities are a must-visit for anyone eager to step into the worlds that have inspired millions worldwide.
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Where to stay in Tokyo, Japan
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Things to do in Tokyo, Japan
Akihabara (Tokyo): Known as the mecca of otaku culture, this area is packed with anime merchandise stores, retro arcades and themed cafes like the Gundam Café and maid cafes.
Studio Ghibli Museum (Mitaka): Located just outside Tokyo, this whimsical museum offers a behind-the-scenes look at Studio Ghibli’s masterpieces. It has life-sized recreations and exclusive short films.
Nakano Broadway (Tokyo): A shopping complex filled with rare collectibles, vintage anime merchandise and manga stores, perfect for treasure hunting.
Odaiba (Tokyo): Home to DiverCity Tokyo Plaza, where you can see the life-sized Unicorn Gundam statue, along with gaming attractions at Joypolis, a high-tech arcade and VR park.
Pokémon Center Tokyo DX (Nihonbashi): A dream for Pokémon fans, this flagship store offers exclusive merchandise, a café and interactive exhibits.
Sunshine City (Ikebukuro, Tokyo): Features attractions like Pokémon Center Mega Tokyo, Namja Town (an indoor theme park with anime collaborations) and plenty of anime and gaming stores.
Gundam Factory (Yokohama) – Witness the awe-inspiring, life-sized moving Gundam robot, along with interactive exhibits and themed souvenirs.
TeamLab Planets TOKYO (Toyosu): While not anime-focused, this digital art museum offers stunning, otherworldly experiences that feel like stepping into a fantasy or futuristic game world.
SEGA and Taito Arcades (Tokyo): Scattered across the city, these iconic arcades in areas like Shinjuku, Ikebukuro and Akihabara offer multi-story gaming experiences. You will find claw machines, rhythm games and classic titles.
Ikebukuro Animate and Otome Road (Tokyo): A haven for anime and manga fans. Especially those interested in the shojo and BL genres, with plenty of merchandise stores and themed cafés to explore.
Day trip:
Tokyo Disneyland
Places to eat & drink in Tokyo, Japan
Pokémon Café (Nihonbashi, Tokyo): A must-visit for Pokémon fans, this café serves adorable, Pokémon-themed meals and desserts alongside exclusive merchandise.
Gundam Café (Akihabara, Tokyo): A haven for Gundam enthusiasts, this café offers themed dishes, drinks and a futuristic dining atmosphere inspired by the iconic mecha series.
Final Fantasy Eorzea Café (Akihabara, Tokyo): Step into the world of Final Fantasy XIV with themed dishes, drinks and decor inspired by the game’s immersive fantasy universe.
Shiro-Hige’s Cream Puff Factory (Setagaya, Tokyo): Known for its My Neighbor Totoro-themed cream puffs, this charming café serves Totoro-shaped desserts in a cozy, Ghibli-inspired setting.
Capcom Café (Ikebukuro, Tokyo): Featuring dishes and drinks inspired by popular Capcom games like Monster Hunter, Resident Evil and Ace Attorney, this café is a treat for gamers.
Moomin Bakery & Café (Tokyo Dome City): Inspired by the beloved Moomin series, this cozy café offers themed dishes, drinks and cuddly character plushies to accompany your meal.
Dragon Quest Luida’s Bar (Roppongi, Tokyo): A small bar themed after Dragon Quest, serving drinks and snacks inspired by the game, complete with Slime-shaped desserts and decor.
Kawaii Monster Café (Harajuku, Tokyo): A vibrant, surreal dining experience with over-the-top decor reminiscent of a fantasy anime world. Serving colorful, Instagram-worthy food and drinks.
Anime-Themed Maid Cafés (Akihabara, Tokyo): Experience dining with a playful twist as servers dressed as anime-inspired characters provide themed menus, live performances and a quirky atmosphere.
Ghibli-Themed Straw Hat Café (Mitaka, Tokyo): Located within the Studio Ghibli Museum, this café serves comforting meals and desserts. Inspired by Ghibli films in a beautifully designed setting.
Travel Advisor
Bryanna Laviolette
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Tokyo page.