Akihabara is the ultimate playground for anime, manga, gaming, and tech enthusiasts. This Tokyo neighbourhood truly feels like stepping into another dimension, where neon lights, bustling shops, and quirky experiences collide. I recently spent a full day exploring its wonders, and it was everything I’d hoped for and more. Here are the top 10 things to do in Akihabara—plus plenty of my personal experiences that made this visit unforgettable. 🎮✨
1. Explore the Anime and Manga Shops
As an anime fan, Akihabara’s anime and manga shops were at the top of my list. Walking into Mandarake Akihabara was like entering an 8-floor paradise. Each floor has its own theme, from rare figurines to cosplay costumes and doujinshi (self-published manga). I vividly remember finding a rare Gundam model kit I’d been searching for forever. The thrill of holding it in my hands was incredible! I also explored Animate, where the shelves overflowed with the latest manga releases and anime merchandise. Browsing through the shops felt like being inside an anime itself, with colourful displays and life-sized cutouts of characters everywhere. Even as someone who loves anime, I was surprised by just how much I found. Whether you’re hunting for a specific collectible or just soaking in the atmosphere, this is a must-do.
Pro Tip: Head to Animate for the newest releases and merchandise. Check Animate’s location here.
2. Visit a Maid Café
I’d always been curious about maid cafés, so visiting one was a dream come true. I chose @home Café, where the maids greeted me with a cheerful “Okaerinasaimase, Goshujin-sama!” (“Welcome home, Master!”). The café was buzzing with energy as the maids performed little routines, from singing to games with the customers. When my omurice arrived, the maid drew a cute cat on it with ketchup, and I couldn’t help but laugh at how adorable it was. I even played a game of rock-paper-scissors with one of the maids—and lost! It’s hard to describe how uniquely fun the whole experience was; it felt both entertaining and slightly surreal. They also had a photo package, so I now have a keepsake of my time there. If you want a playful, lighthearted memory of Akihabara, this is the place to go.
Cost: Around $20 (2,000 JPY) per person. Learn more about @home Café.
3. Shop for Gadgets at Yodobashi Camera
As a tech enthusiast, Yodobashi Akiba was an absolute highlight of my trip. This massive multi-storey electronics store has everything you could ever imagine, from the latest cameras to quirky Japanese gadgets. I spent a good hour testing out VR headsets in the gaming section—it was like being transported into the future. Another highlight was the smartphone accessories section, where I found some cool Japan-exclusive items to bring back as gifts. Even though I wasn’t buying anything major, wandering through the endless aisles of tech felt exhilarating. There’s also a rooftop food court, so after all the exploring, I grabbed a quick meal with an impressive view of Akihabara. If you’re a gadget lover like me, prepare to lose track of time here.
4. Discover Retro Games at Super Potato
Stepping into Super Potato was like taking a time machine back to my childhood. This retro gaming haven has everything from Famicom cartridges to Sega consoles, all perfectly preserved. I spent ages browsing the shelves and marveling at games I hadn’t seen since I was a kid. Upstairs, there’s an arcade with vintage classics like Pac-Man and Space Invaders. I couldn’t resist trying a few rounds, and it brought back so many nostalgic memories. I also ended up buying a used Game Boy, complete with an original Pokémon cartridge. The staff were super friendly, helping me pick out the best items and even letting me try some of the rarer games. If you’re into retro gaming, this is a place you’ll want to linger in for hours.
5. Immerse Yourself in the Akihabara Radio Kaikan
The Akihabara Radio Kaikan is a true otaku mecca, and it didn’t disappoint. This building houses over 30 specialty shops, each offering unique treasures. I started on the lower floors, browsing trading cards and keychains, but it was the higher levels that really captivated me. On the fifth floor, I stumbled upon an entire shop dedicated to high-end figurines. One display featured a massive Evangelion statue that looked almost lifelike! Another floor catered to DIY electronics enthusiasts, and though I’m not particularly tech-savvy, I was amazed by the array of customisable gadgets and tools. Each shop felt like a small treasure hunt, and I left with a few rare finds, including a limited-edition figure from one of my favourite anime series.
Tip: Check out Kaiyodo Hobby Lobby for high-quality figurines.
6. Play at an Arcade
The arcades in Akihabara are like no other, and I spent an entire afternoon at SEGA Akihabara. The sheer variety of games blew my mind—each floor offered something different, from VR games to classic arcade hits. I got completely hooked on a rhythm game where you have to tap and slide to match the beat of J-pop songs. My hands were practically on fire after a few rounds, but it was so much fun! I also couldn’t resist trying the claw machines, even though they’re notoriously tricky. After several attempts, I finally won a plushie Pikachu, and the feeling of victory was worth every yen. The energy in the arcade is infectious, with cheers and laughter echoing around. Whether you’re a gamer or just curious, this is a must-visit.
Cost: Most games cost around $1 (100 JPY) per play.
7. Visit the Akihabara Shrine (Kanda Myojin)
After hours of bright lights and bustling streets, I took a peaceful detour to Kanda Myojin Shrine. This ancient shrine, just a short walk from Akihabara’s main area, is a serene escape. The vibrant red gates and intricate wooden carvings are stunning, and the contrast with Akihabara’s modern vibe is striking. I learned that this shrine is popular among techies who come to pray for safe gadget usage. I couldn’t resist buying a phone charm—a unique souvenir that feels both traditional and modern. The shrine grounds are also dotted with ema (wooden plaques) featuring anime-inspired art, which I found fascinating. Sitting on one of the benches and soaking in the calm atmosphere was the perfect way to recharge before heading back into the action.
Entry Fee: Free. Official Website
8. Indulge in Otaku Fashion at COSPA
One of the most fun stops of the day was COSPA, a shop specialising in anime-inspired clothing. I’d been on the hunt for something wearable but unique, and COSPA delivered. I picked up a “One Piece” hoodie that’s both stylish and geeky—perfect for casual days. The store also offers full cosplay outfits, and seeing the variety of costumes was a treat. I tried on a few hats and accessories just for fun, and the staff were super encouraging, even offering tips on how to style the outfits. They also carry a range of small items like pins and bags, which make great gifts. Even if you’re not into cosplay, the creativity and quality of the items here are worth checking out.
9. Check Out the Gachapon Kaikan
I couldn’t leave Akihabara without visiting the Gachapon Kaikan, a haven for capsule toy lovers. The store has rows upon rows of gachapon machines, each offering something unique. For just $2 (200 JPY), you can get a miniature figure, keychain, or other quirky collectible. I spent way longer here than I expected, spinning machine after machine. My best find of the day was a tiny Godzilla figure that now sits proudly on my desk. The excitement of not knowing what you’ll get makes it addictive, and I wasn’t the only one—there were plenty of locals and tourists around, all trying their luck. It’s a fun, inexpensive way to take a piece of Akihabara home with you.
10. Grab a Bite at a Themed Restaurant
To wrap up my day, I had dinner at the Final Fantasy Eorzea Café, and it was like stepping into the game itself. The decor is incredible, with every detail designed to transport you into the world of Final Fantasy. The menu was equally creative, featuring dishes like “Moogle Curry” and cocktails inspired by in-game potions. I ordered the “Phoenix Down” drink, which came in a glowing glass—it felt so magical! The staff were dressed in cosplay, and they stayed in character throughout the evening. Reservations are essential, as this place is hugely popular, but it’s worth planning ahead. It was the perfect end to an action-packed day, and I left feeling like I’d just completed an epic quest.
Reservation Required: Eorzea Café Website.
Final Thoughts
Akihabara is a sensory overload in the best way possible. From geeky treasures to quirky experiences, every corner has something exciting waiting for you. I left with a bag full of goodies and a heart full of joy. Whether you’re an otaku or just curious, Akihabara is a must-visit on any Tokyo trip. 💕
