Aerial evening view of Akihabara’s neon signs and elevated railway in Chiyoda, Tokyo

Discover
Akihabara

Step Into Tokyo's
Electric Wonderland

Akihabara, located in the heart of Tokyo’s Chiyoda ward, is a vibrant district celebrated for its deep ties to electronics, gaming, and otaku culture. Once a hub for postwar radio parts, it has since transformed into a dynamic neighborhood where cutting-edge tech and pop culture coexist.

From multi-story anime shops and retro arcade centers to specialty cafés and tech megastores, Akihabara pulses with energy that attracts enthusiasts from around the world. It’s not just a shopping destination—it’s an immersive cultural experience.

Whether you’re exploring the latest gadgets, diving into niche fandoms, or simply curious about Japan’s tech-forward subcultures, Akihabara offers a unique slice of Tokyo that’s both nostalgic and futuristic.

Sightseeing in Akihabara

Akihabara Electric Town street lined with electronics shops and neon signage

01.Akihabara Electric Town

Akihabara Electric Town is the district’s historic core—an area packed with small electronics shops, parts dealers, and nostalgic storefronts that hark back to Tokyo’s postwar tech boom. It’s the perfect place to explore the roots of Akihabara's identity and pick up everything from capacitors to vintage audio gear.

Exterior of Radio Kaikan building with shops stacked on multiple floors

02.Radio Kaikan

This iconic multi-floor complex is a mecca for collectors, packed with figures, trading cards, models, and fan merch. Each floor houses a different specialty store, making it a must-visit for fans of anime, games, and Japanese pop culture. It’s as much about discovery as it is about shopping.

Mandarake Complex interior with shelves of used anime, manga, and retro goods

03.Mandarake Complex

One of the world’s largest stores for secondhand anime and manga goods, Mandarake is a treasure trove for fans and collectors. From rare doujinshi to retro games, every corner is filled with nostalgia. Even casual visitors will find something curious among the shelves.

Kanda Myojin Shrine grounds with ema and visitors near Akihabara

04.Kanda Myojin Shrine

Just a short walk from the station, this centuries-old shrine blends tradition with otaku charm. It’s a popular spot for tech workers and anime fans alike to pray for good fortune—and yes, you can buy anime-themed omamori (charms). During festivals, it becomes a lively mix of culture and color.

2k540 Aki-Oka Artisan under elevated tracks with craft boutiques

05.2k540 Aki-Oka Artisan

Tucked beneath the JR train tracks, 2k540 is an unexpected gem—a stylish corridor of artisan boutiques, craft studios, and pop-up galleries. It offers a calmer, design-focused contrast to Akihabara’s buzzing streets and is perfect for finding handmade souvenirs or enjoying a quiet coffee.

Food & Dining in Akihabara

Bowl of rich ramen with chashu at Menya Musashi Bujin

01.Menya Musashi Bujin

A favorite among ramen enthusiasts, Menya Musashi Bujin delivers rich, savory bowls of tonkotsu and shoyu-based ramen. The noodles are thick and chewy, and the chashu pork is melt-in-your-mouth tender. It’s a satisfying stop for anyone exploring Akihabara on foot.

Plate of Japanese curry at CoCo Ichibanya near Akihabara Station

02.Curry House CoCo Ichibanya

When in Japan, trying CoCo Ichibanya’s customizable curry is a must—and their Akihabara location offers the same delicious experience with a convenient spot near the station. Choose your spice level, toppings, and rice portion for a meal tailored to your craving.

Hand-drip coffee and breakfast plates at THE TOURIST HOTEL & Cafe AKIHABARA

03.THE TOURIST HOTEL & Cafe

Located within THE TOURIST HOTEL & Cafe AKIHABARA, this café offers a serene atmosphere amidst the bustling streets of Akihabara. Enjoy carefully prepared hand-drip coffee and breakfast options like BLT open sandwiches and avocado toast plates.

Fluffy omurice being served at Café MOCO in Akihabara

04.Café MOCO

Known for its fluffy omurice and charming interior, Café MOCO blends casual dining with a cozy café vibe. The signature ketchup art on your omelet adds a playful touch, making it popular among solo travelers and couples alike.

Curry dishes with spices at Curry no Toriko near Akihabara Station

05.Curry no Toriko

Tucked away in a side alley near Akihabara Station, Curry no Toriko serves up bold, flavorful curry that draws regulars and foodies alike. Choose between dry and soupy styles, spice levels, and various toppings for a fully customized experience.

Things to Do in Akihabara

Rows of capsule toy machines inside Gachapon Hall

01.Gachapon Hall

With hundreds of capsule toy machines lined wall-to-wall, Gachapon Hall offers a quirky, addictive diversion. From miniature sushi sets to anime figurines, there’s something here to surprise and amuse.

Concept café interior at Kimi no Kanojo in Akihabara

02.Kimi no Kanojo

Offering a uniquely Japanese blend of fantasy and hospitality, Kimi no Kanojo is a concept café for casual, one-on-one conversation in a relaxed setting—a niche window into Akihabara’s otaku culture.

Display of retro consoles and games at Super Potato

03.Super Potato Retro Game Store

A paradise for retro gaming fans, Super Potato houses vintage consoles, cartridges, and memorabilia. Play old-school arcade games upstairs or hunt for rare Famicom titles.

Colorful interior and themed drinks at Cutepia Akihabara

04.Cutepia Akihabara

Cutepia is a colorful concept café with themed drinks and playful performances. It’s a glimpse into the whimsical side of Akihabara’s café culture.

Atrium space and exhibit area inside Akihabara UDX

05.Akihabara UDX Events & Exhibits

This modern complex hosts pop-up exhibits, anime art displays, and tech showcases. It’s a great place to catch the latest in otaku culture or Japanese design trends.

Nightlife in Akihabara

Stylish lounge seating and bar at Akihabara ARK

01.Akihabara ARK

Akihabara ARK is a refined and stylish hostess club known for its chic interior and attentive service—an upscale yet approachable setting for a memorable evening.

Modern interior and seating at CROWD Akihabara

02.CROWD Akihabara

A vibrant cabaret club minutes from the station, blending city sophistication with laid-back charm. Sleek design, diverse cast, and friendly service.

Warm, elegant interior at Kaupili Club Akihabara

03.Kaupili Club Akihabara

A refined escape with a warm interior and attentive hostesses—an inviting choice for an upscale but approachable nightlife experience.

Playful mermaid-inspired theme at Mermaid Akihabara lounge

04.Mermaid Akihabara

Mermaid Akihabara blends playful charm with a comfortable bar-lounge atmosphere—fun, imaginative, and uniquely Akihabara.

One District,
Infinite Interests

From tech stores and anime culture to quiet cafés and quirky experiences, Akihabara offers a diverse and ever-evolving landscape. This guide is just the beginning—venture deeper and uncover the hidden layers of Tokyo’s Electric Town.