Tokyo’s Akihabara district is a special district, popular with both tourists and locals.
It’s a paradise of electronics, retro stores, and video games. Even if these aren’t your primary interests, the area is well worth a visit.
In Akihabara, you can shop for almost anything, and the sheer variety of stores here makes it impossible to see everything in one day. Planning your visit in advance is a good idea.
Akihabara – The district of electronics, technology, and manga stores
Akihabara is one of Tokyo’s most famous districts, and its international reputation draws visitors from around the world.
Here, you’ll find top electronics and computer stores, plus an enormous selection of shops specializing in anime, manga, and video games.
Akihabara is a key destination for anyone interested in Japanese pop culture and bargain hunting, as many stores offer significant discounts.
Additionally, some stores have tax-free prices for tourists if you show your visa.
This district is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Tokyo.
Chuo Dori, the main street
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ROHmElw5cok
Akihabara spans several streets, with Chuo Dori as the most prominent. The area’s top shops are located here, making it the perfect starting point.
Chuo Dori’s importance is partly due to its central location, connecting the districts of Kyobashi, Ginza, Ueno, and Akihabara itself.
This connectivity means that many people pass through Chuo Dori even if they aren’t specifically there for the shops in Akihabara.
Most famous electronics stores
Akihabara is also known as “Electronic Town” due to its history, as the district grew from a collection of electronics shops into the bustling district it is today.
Every day, thousands of people come to Akihabara, confident they’ll find exactly what they’re looking for at the best price.
In the diverse stores here, you can discover the latest products as well as vintage electronics that may no longer be available elsewhere.
Akihabara doesn’t just sell products; it also has repair sections, perfect if you’re looking to restore an old device. For fans of second-hand shopping, stores like Janpara offer gently used electronics in great condition at very low prices.
From cutting-edge tech to retro treasures, Akihabara has it all.
One of the most iconic stores here is Yodobashi Akiba, a nine-story shopping complex entirely dedicated to electronics and computers. Major chains like Labi, Ishimaru, and Sofmap also have flagship stores in this area.
After exploring Akihabara’s electronics wonderland, consider visiting the teamLab Planets TOKYO for a digital art experience where technology and art seamlessly blend, reflecting the cutting-edge spirit of Akihabara.
Anime and Manga in Tokyo
The quality and depth of Japanese anime and manga have captivated fans worldwide.
Japan’s love for these art forms is evident in the sheer size and variety of Akihabara’s anime and manga shops.
Owning an original Japanese copy of a manga is a prized collectible for any fan. For anime and manga enthusiasts, Animate, Comic Toranoana, and Mandarake are must-visit stores, with entire floors dedicated to anime and manga collectibles.
Video Game Shops and Arcades
As the birthplace of video games, Japan houses some of the best stores for gamers, especially in Akihabara.
Gaming culture in Japan is massive, and it’s visible in the multitude of arcades, known as “game centers,” and popular “pachinko” parlors.
The top stores for gaming include:
Super Potato
This store offers a vast selection of games, from recent titles to retro classics.
Here, you’ll find games and consoles from brands like Nintendo, Sony, and even Sega. Looking for a Nintendo console from the 1980s? You’ll likely find it here. Super Potato has four floors, each dedicated to different products, and even features a mini video game museum for a nostalgic journey through gaming history.
You’ll easily spot Super Potato in Akihabara thanks to its large Pacman and Mario figures on the front.
Aso Bit City
Another iconic store, Aso Bit City, stands out as one of Akihabara’s largest, with a total of 8 floors. Known for its extensive selection of video games and tech products, this store offers some of the best prices in the area.
To make the most of your anime and gaming adventure, consider getting a 24, 48, or 72-hour metro ticket. This pass simplifies getting around Akihabara and other parts of Tokyo, so you can explore freely.
Karaoke and the Most Famous Spots
Japan is the birthplace of karaoke, one of the nation’s most beloved pastimes. While karaoke is known worldwide, it’s a uniquely cherished experience in Japan, as popular as going to the movies or out dancing in other countries.
Japanese karaoke, also known as Karaoke-box, is more private than what you might be used to. Rather than singing in a public bar, groups rent private rooms equipped with karaoke machines and comfortable seating.
JoySound and Big Echo are among the top karaoke brands in Japan, and you’ll find their outlets across Tokyo, including in Akihabara.
Maid Cafés
Japan is known for its unique and sometimes eccentric trends, and one example is the rise of themed cafés with “Maids.”
At these Maid Cafés, guests receive attentive, personalized service from servers dressed as maids, who often refer to guests as “masters” or “mistresses” in the spirit of traditional maid service. It’s common to see young women dressed as maids outside the café, inviting visitors in. Inside, the experience includes not only food and drink but an element of cosplay and interaction, making for an unforgettable experience.
These cafés are traditionally geared towards men, but they welcome anyone interested in the experience.
@Home Café
One of the most popular maid cafés is @Home Café, where each table is attended by a dedicated maid. Guests can enjoy typical restaurant services, plus some additional “affectionate” services, though nothing that crosses into adult-only content.
Maidreamin
Another highly recommended option is Maidreamin, which appeals to both men and women. Here, both male and female maids serve guests, with a cute, animal-themed menu.
Prices at both cafés are quite reasonable, ranging from €12 to €16 per person, so you can enjoy this unique experience multiple times if you wish.
Electronics, technology, uniqueness, and the latest trends—you can find it all in Akihabara. As you’ve seen, this district offers a huge variety of shops and activities, so if your time in Tokyo is limited, plan your stops in advance to make the most of your visit!