Akihabara Travel Guide: A Place Worth Exploring

One of the most interesting things about Akihabara, Japan is that every Sunday from October to March, Chuo Dori, the district’s main street, is completely closed off to traffic. Thus, between the hours of one in the afternoon to six in the evenings, it becomes a pedestrians’ paradise, known to the locals as “Hokosha Tengoku.”

Akihabara is actually a name that is used after being shortened from Akibagahara, a name derived from Akiba, a deity that has the ability to control fire. In 1869, this now-famous district, Akihabara of Japan, was destroyed by a raging fire, soon after which, the shrine to Akiba, called Chinkasha, was built, though locals call it Akiba Jinja, or Akiba Shrine, rather than by the name it was actually given. The shine now resides in the Akihabara in the Taito Ward, where it was moved to in 1888. The Akihabara in Taito Ward is not the same as the more famous Akihabara district that is now famous for its electronics, anime and manga goods.

Recently, Akihabara has been undergoing a lot of development, with the aim of making it a centre for electronic technology in the world. From the latest video games, computer gadgets and even robots, Akihabara of Japan has it all!

One of the things that Akihabara, Japan, is famous for is electronics. During the 1930s, this small town was given the nickname “Electric Town” since it was a very future-oriented market that would deal in household electronics, something that was used, but not very common back in that time era. When electronics for the home became more common and lost the appeal of being futuristic, the market in Akihabara then moved on to what was still futuristic: computers for the home.

Today, the area has numerous shops that deal in electronic goods. These outlets range from megastores to small stalls. No matter what electronic product you have in mind, Akihabara is bound to have it. Whether you are looking for the latest mobiles, computers or televisions to other random electronic goods such as electronic parts and junk, you will find an outlet that sells it; all you need to do is stroll through the streets to find it.

While shopping for electronics in Akihabara, bear in mind that some of the goods can only be used in Japan due to the warranty, technical differences, voltage, and other details. However, they do sell a large number of items that can be used internationally. So, be careful to check with the salesclerk before purchasing if you plan to use it outside the country.

If you want to visit a few electronic stores, here are some of the most famous ones that can be found in Akihabara in Japan.

1. Akky: Located near the Akihabara Station, Akky has two outlets that sell various electronics that can be used internationally. You will be able to find almost everything your heart dreams of when it comes to these futuristic items that make our lives more comfortable and luxurious. From computers, software, televisions to cameras, everything is tax-free. You can even find some excellent quality goods that are second hand if you don’t want to spend on something new. They are open from nine to eight, seven days a week.

2. Sofmap: With around six outlets around the Akihabara district of Tokyo, Sofmap usually specializes in specific products in each one of them. They have an exclusive store for cameras, another for mobiles and so on. This means that they can provide you with pretty much anything you need with regards to that particular product. So, if you end up in Akihabara in Japan and you have something specific in mind, find one of Sofmaps stores, and you are sure to be pleased. The stores are open on all days of the week, but each store will have different timings.

3. Yodobashi Camera: As with most stores in the district, Yadobashi Camera is open seven days a week. Located in the east of Akihabara Station, it is a huge outlet for people with multiple electronic requirements. You can find games, computers, cameras and even watches and the best part is that everything is free of tax. You will also be able to find international models of whatever it is you are looking for.

4. Yamada Denki: Right across from the exit of Akihabara Electric Town exit and has specialties in accessories for the pc and electronics for the home. Personal computers are also something that Yamada Denki deals it. It is open throughout the week, and from ten am to ten pm.

5. Laox: If you want tax free items, Laox is the place to be. Not only do they have a lot of electronics, but they also have many game-related and hobby-related things. You will find lifestyle goods and souvenirs that you will love to take back home with you to remind you of your trip to Akihabara in Japan.

Fans of Japanese Anime and Manga, as well as those of popular video games, will find Akihabara in Japan a paradise on earth. Known for being the Otaku capital in the world, visiting Akihabara is like stepping into another world altogether. Here, cosplay is taken very seriously and is used to entice customers into different shops or for various kinds of promotions. Cosplay is a term used to describe dressing up as a character in a show, book or even a game. It is not unusual to pass by someone dressed in complete cosplay of an anime or gaming character on the streets, something that may be seen as rather odd anywhere else.

When Akihabara started to focus more on the home computer market, a whole new crowd began to visit the unique district in Tokyo. Those who are serious in their love for computer or video games, as well as those who have a deep passion for everything related to the Japanese Anime or Manga, are drawn here. Over time, Akihabara became the main centre for all things related to this. Some otaku even consider Akihabara to be a sacred place.

From stores that sell figurines, cards and other things related to the culture that surrounds Anime, Manga, and gaming, to the unique Maid Cafes that feature the serving staff dressed in maid costumes, Akihabara has everything an otaku can ever dream of.

Here are a few spots that every otaku should visit:

1. Animate Girls Station: This chain store is always well stocked with the latest anime, manga, and other character goods. You can find cosplay items to make your cosplay dream come true. From wigs to cute uniforms and wigs, you are bound to find even something to help your cosplay dream become a reality. If you are a fan of doujinshi, meaning self-published works, you can find them here. This store mainly focuses on the anime and manga that is currently trending, so fans of the more vintage or less known series may not find what they are looking for here. You can find this store near the Electronic Town Exit near Akihabara Station.

2. Mandarake: First known for being a place to find doujinshi, Mandarake now also sells many second-hand goods that are kept in mint condition. Complete your anime collection or grab a few doujinshi of your favourite anime or manga by visiting this store. The building has eight floors and has the biggest and most diverse collection of otaku goods that you will find anywhere in Tokyo. Not only that, but you will also find it at a much better rate than any other store. If you are planning on stocking up on some amazing anime or manga goods, this is the place you need to visit first. Located five minutes away from the Electronic Town Exit near the station, Mandarake is open from twelve in the afternoon to eight at night, so do not miss your chance to make a stop here.

3. ACOS: A cosplay focused store, you will be able to find a diverse variety of uniforms, wigs and props at various prices. Be aware that the sizes available here are quite limited so not everyone will be able to find costumes in their size. The wigs and props will be a better option for everyone to look at. Located only four minutes away from the Akihabara Station, ACOS is open from eleven in the morning until nine-thirty at night.

4. Kotobukiya: A mix of different stores, the different floors all have a particular specialty. Floors one to three are the places to get your anime and manga related goods and the fourth is where you will find other electronics, CDs, and DVDs. You can even find some of the figurines of game characters for your collection. On the fifth floor, there is usually an event that is held. Only three minutes away from the Akihabara Station exit for Electronic Town, Kotobukiya is open from ten in the morning until eight at night.

5. Kanda Myojin Shrine: Believe it or not, this shrine has adapted to the anime culture and has the anime character Nozomi Tojo from Love Live! As their mascot. This turn of events happened after the character was depicted as a shrine maiden for Kanda Myojin. Kanda Myojin Shrine also offers talismans that have charms to protect electric goods from harm. All things considered; this beautiful Shinto Shrine is definitely a place worth visiting when visiting Akihabara in Japan.

Since Akihabara is the otaku cultural capital of the world, it is unsurprising to find that they also have themed restaurants for your enjoyment. Here are some choices for you.

1. Maid Cafes: One of the most unique experiences you can have in Akihabara is to go to a Maid Café. The waitresses are clad in maid outfits and treat the customer like masters, even referring to you as “goshujin-sama,” which translates to “master.” There are many Maid Cafes all over Akihabara so you can decide on which one you would like to visit.

2. Gundam Café: Gundam is the name of an anime series that include characters that wear robot suits and fight some serious battles in outer space. The Gundam Café is perfectly suited to cater to fans of this series. Many people grew up watching this long-lived show, and so many customers visit this place. Even those who do not know about this anime, but who love robots will be able to enjoy their time at this café.

Hardcore otaku who are visiting Akihabara in Japan may take a few days to completely explore all this district has to offer. So, it only makes sense to find somewhere to stay that is comfortable so you can complete your geeky adventures in one trip. Here are the places that you can consider.

1. Akihabara Washington Hotel: Right across the street from the Akihabara Station, this hotel is the most convenient for you to check into. The rooms are clean, and the staff is very friendly and best of all, this hotel comes with cute and quirk features that are unique to Akihabara. You can even make a request to be woken up by an anime character that is recorded by a student of voice acting. If you are in a group of girls or are a single woman travelling alone, you will love this hotel since it has entire floors dedicated to women only. Here you will be able to enjoy feminine amenities, and you will feel as safe as you would in your own home.

2. Hotel Ryumeikan Ochanomizu Honten: First starting out as a Ryokan, an inn in the Japanese style, this hotel is now upgraded to suit the modern life. With very helpful and pleasant staff members and the ability to get the entire Japanese experience, this hotel is the perfect option for those adults travelling alone. The hotel has very comfortable mattresses and unique, handmade bathtubs in the Shigarakiyaki pottery style. The surroundings are peaceful and quiet, but since it is located in Kanda-Ochanomizu area, it is also quite central and getting to the city areas is easy.

3. Akihabara Bay Hotel: Women travelling alone to Akihabara, Japan, can have quite the experience at this capsule hotel. Rather than rooms, it has units that only consists of a bed. There are plugs available in each unit for your devices as well as an in-built alarm system if you require it. The units are spacious and not at all cramped, and the hotel even provides you

4. with feminine amenities such as curling irons and large make up stations. Some lovely cosmetic products are also available for use.

5. Grids Tokyo Asakusabashi Hotel and Hostel: If you are the type to enjoy the social atmosphere of a hostel, this is the place for you. There are comfortable dormitories that are kept clean by the staff. The friendly hotel staff also host events to keep you entertained. Having Game Night or Takoyaki parties are not uncommon here. Staying at this Hostel will give you the real feel of the quirkiness is that quite unique to Akihabara, Japan, and you may even make friends with others who share your interests.

Akihabara in Japan is geek central and most loved by many who love electronics and the otakus of Japan, and the rest of the world. With some of the unique attractions and an atmosphere that can be found nowhere else, you will end up having a good time even if you are not really an otaku.