Located in the Chiyoda ward of Tokyo, Akihabara gained the nickname Akihabara Denki Gai (Akihabara Electric Town) for being a major shopping center for electronic goods. In recent years, it also becomes the heart of Japan’s otaku (diehard fan) culture related to anime, manga, and Japanese pop. Icons from popular anime, manga, and idol groups are displayed prominently in the shops in the area. Numerous arcades, manga kissa, pachinko parlors, and cosplay cafes are found throughout the district. Akihabara tries to create an atmosphere as close as possible to the game and anime worlds of customers’ interest.
Group Attractions
Yodobashi Camera
The nine-story electronics emporium of the Akihabara branch was opened in September 2005. Located on the east side of Akihabara Station, Yodobashi Camera offers all kinds of gadgets and tech products that are very popular among locals and tourists. From Japanese rice cookers, computers, games, watches, cameras, to beauty products, Yodobashi Camera is a one-stop shop for all. It also offers brand-name fashion and a huge food court above the main store.
Activities : Shopping Fee : None Time required : at least 1 hour
Akihabara Gamers
A specialty store offering a wide range of anime, manga, and voice-actor related goods including movies, video games, CDs, stationery, and software. Inside the store, you will find merchandise such as delicious cookies and cute mugs that make perfect souvenirs. The store reaches up to the 8th floor. It also has a museum that displays original keyframes of anime and where many events are held.
Activities : Shopping Fee : None Time required : at least 1 hour
Mandarake
One of the largest emporiums for manga and anime fans, Mandarake Akihabara is the largest of all the stores in Japan. Some staff can speak English, Chinese, or Korean, depending on the floor. Specializing in pre-owned goods, it is a good place to find the rare and collectible manga, figurines, dolls, posters, CDs, toys, and other types of manga related goods. From current manga and anime-related products to nostalgic toys and anime goods, this store is filled with products revolving around manga culture.
Activities : Shopping Fee : None Time required : at least 1 hour
Don Quijote
Don Quijote (Donkihote) is a Japanese discount store chain that carries everything from groceries and toys to electronics and high-end fashion goods. It is well-known across the country for its reasonable prices and interesting merchandise. The Akihabara branch—which operates past midnight until 5 a.m.—offers a unique range of cosplay, anime, and other Akihabara-themed goods. It is also home to the world-famous girl pop group AKB48, who perform daily shows at their theatre on the 8th floor of the store (typically 2400 or 3400 yen). There is also a branch of the @Home Cafe maid cafe on the 5th floor of the store.
Activities : Shopping Fee : None Time required : at least 1 hour
Gundam Cafe
Themed after the extremely popular Mobile Suit Gundam anime series, this café serves Gundam-themed dishes and is decorated with arts and goods from the series. Starting with Gundam statues displayed throughout the restaurant, several other hidden surprises are awaiting Gundam fans in the cafe. There is also a gift shop that sells character goods and souvenirs. Fans can spot the café upon leaving Akihabara Station.
Activities : Shopping Fee : None Time required : at least 1 hour
Maid Cafes
Maid cafes are cosplay themed restaurants where guests are served by waitresses that are typically dressed as French maids. In addition to serving food, the maids engage in conversation and games with the customers and refer to them as “master.” Among the many maid cafes in Akihabara, Maidreamin Akihabara the Main Store has drummed up enough popularity in and out of Japan that it has been able to expand overseas. All things in the menu come with a magic good luck charm cast by the maids.
Activities : Shopping Fee : None Time required : at least 1 hour
Nearby Areas
Marunouchi Naka-dori is the main street of Marunouchi and one of the leading shopping streets in Japan. Lined with high-end stores, Marunouchi Naka-dori offers newly opened shopping and dining complexes.