Tokyo: Japan's vibrant capital city, Tokyo, offers endless opportunities for all, with its lively atmosphere and diverse range of interests catered to every individual.
Explore Shinjuku: Discover the iconic Godzilla Road, indulge in a unique dining experience at the renowned Robot Restaurant, and immerse yourself in a mesmerizing display of dazzling lights.
The Beast's City: The bustling neon main street of Godzilla Road pays homage to the glorious era of Japan's legendary monster, known as Kaiju, who was often portrayed by actors wearing rubber suits.
The Robot Restaurant: If you mention to anyone who has ever been to Tokyo that you are planning a visit, they will most likely suggest this unique and entertaining attraction. While the menu offers mainly Western cuisine, the main highlight of this place is undoubtedly the performing robots.
Gundam: Towering and impressive, the life-sized statue warmly welcomes visitors to Odaiba, a fabricated island situated in Tokyo. Enthusiasts of the series can indulge in their passion by attempting to construct their own Gundam models at The Gundam Base Tokyo shop.
Rising Star: Ikebekuro - This area is teeming with unique subcultures, and at Sunshine City, a mall boasting a 60-story skyscraper, you'll find organized gatherings catering to a diverse range of otaku interests.
Unique Pokemon Merchandise at Pokemon Center Mega Tokyo
For dedicated Pokemon enthusiasts, the Pokemon Center Mega Tokyo is a haven of rare and fascinating collectibles. This iconic store is renowned for its extensive selection of obscure editions and intricate figurines, making it the perfect destination for souvenir shopping.
Experience the thrill of the game: Embrace the excitement at The Tokyo Dome, the renowned home stadium of The Yomiuri Giants. Known as "The New York Yankees of Japan," this baseball mecca is a must-visit for enthusiasts and aficionados.
Enthusiasts and cuisine: Experience the must-try takoyaki, delectable fried dough balls meticulously filled with succulent octopus. Embrace the contagious energy as ardent supporters passionately erupt with cheers from the vibrant stands.
Harajuku: This district attracts fashion enthusiasts who are on the lookout for vibrant and expressive attire. After a day of bustling shopping experiences, they are pleasantly surprised with the discovery of unique vintage pieces.
Perfect for Instagram: The mirrored entranceway at Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Harajuku offers a unique photo shoot location where you can showcase your stylish outfits from multiple angles.
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Experience the Vibrant Shibuya Scramble: Prepare to be captivated by the electrifying energy of Shibuya Scramble, a bustling intersection where pedestrians rule. Watch in awe as vehicles come to a halt in all directions, creating a spectacle that perfectly embodies the dynamic pulse of Tokyo.
Hello Kitty: The airplanes operated by EVA Airlines are uniquely decorated with various Sanrio character designs, including the beloved Hello Kitty. As one of the most renowned and cherished characters, Hello Kitty adds an element of charm and popularity to EVA's themed fleet. Passengers can enjoy a delightful and whimsical travel experience with this iconic character on board.
The term 'Otaku', translating to 'your house' in English, was historically utilized as a derogatory descriptor of individuals who indulged in passionate hobbies to such an extent that they appeared to be recluses.
Originally, it was a label conceived by writer, Akio Nakamori in the 1980s, to marginalize people engrossed in manga and anime. This term, as time went by, began to encompass a broader spectrum of fandoms, thereby shedding its initial unpleasant connotation.
Currently, the community embracing 'Otaku' is filled with warmth and acceptance, spanning across cos-players, internet gamers, railfans (train enthusiasts referred to as otaku), music aficionados, and virtually an infinite number of other communities. With time, there has been an increasing trend in Japan of people who proudly identify themselves as otaku, reflecting the complete dissolution of any negative judgment associated with the term.
The pulsating Otaku culture is nowhere more vibrant than in the futuristic city of Tokyo. This city bears witness to multiple neighborhoods that cater to a widespread variation of interests.
All the geeks out there, it's time for you to celebrate!
Did you know that Otaku culture significantly contributes to Japan's economy attracting a huge number of global tourists every year? Also, Akihabara in Tokyo is famously known as the 'Otaku mecca' for its wealth of anime, manga and electronic stores.
Ikebekuro, a district in Tokyo, is renowned for being the location of Sunshine City. This impressive building complex features a towering 60-story skyscraper at its heart and offers a multitude of attractions.
Embark on a Unique Journey: Fly with Hello Kitty
Begin your exciting geek adventure right from the start by choosing to fly with Japan's beloved character, Hello Kitty, on EVA's captivating themed airplanes. These planes showcase a delightful array of Sanrio character designs, immersing you in an enchanting atmosphere throughout your flight.
The charming livery of the aircrafts serves as a pleasant diversion during the long-haul journey. From welcome videos featuring the entire Sanrio family to food shaped like beloved characters, every detail on board is tailored to enhance your experience. In fact, you'll even find animated safety instructions led by Hello Kitty herself, ensuring a unique and entertaining way to stay informed during the flight.
If you're departing from Los Angeles or Chicago, you have the opportunity to fly on a plane adorned with the beloved foodie-favorite, Gudetama. This lazy yet endearing character eases the stress of flying and adds a touch of whimsy to your trip.
If you're an ardent admirer of Hello Kitty, you would certainly relish an international flight themed on this beloved icon. For now, such unique experiences are available via routes originating from Los Angeles and Chicago.
Upon landing in Tokyo, devotees of Hello Kitty will delight in an almost infinite number of ways to immerse themselves further into this adorable universe. At Keio Plaza Hotel, take the plunge into Hello Kitty world by booking the delightful Princess Kitty or Kitty Town themed rooms. These meticulously curated spaces aren't just adorned with Hello Kitty bedding and wallpapers - but also packed with a host of other unique elements, like wake-up calls from Kitty White and distinctive “Do Not Disturb” signs. For those moments when you feel peckish, Hello Kitty-themed room service is always on the menu. If you're considering other accommodations in the city to continue your Hello Kitty adventure, you might want to look into 3-star hotels in Tokyo that offer comfort and convenience, perhaps with a touch of kawaii culture that can be found throughout the city. For travelers keen on exploring broader hotel options to enhance their stay, checking out tophotels.com can provide insights into the best places to stay in Tokyo. Whether you're looking for luxury accommodations or more budget-friendly choices, Tokyo's array of hotels ensures every visitor finds the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring Hello Kitty's world and the city's many other attractions.
The excitement doesn't stop there - Tokyo is generously dotted with Hello Kitty stores, where you can grab all kinds of adorable merchandise.
Also, while you’re in the Land of the Rising Sun, don't miss out on riding the all-new Hello Kitty Shinkansen for an unforgettable experience! This service once again proves Japan’s knack for blending traditional culture with pop attractions.
Exploring Shinjuku - Tokyo's Beastly Borough
In the heart of Tokyo, among its 23 special wards, Shinjuku holds a unique position with its pulsating energy and remarkable central location. Ranking as Tokyo's most iconic realm, this lively borough is a hub of incessant activities.
This neighborhood is a dreamland for every geek at heart, bathing in the electrifying aura of the Godzilla Road's main street lavishly lit with neon lights. This grand homage, reminiscent of the golden era of Japanese Kaiju, stands tall exhibiting the legendary Godzilla from the 1992 film 'Godzilla vs. Mothra'. The stunning replica of Godzilla, a striking 40 feet structure artistically designed at the Hotel Gracery, groans and sprays fake fire transformed from well-lit mist every hour starting from noon till 8 at night.
To magnify the incredible experience, a coordinated light show projects images of neighbouring buildings appear to be in flames and cracking. Visitors can even enjoy an up-close view of this spectacle from the eighth-floor lobby. The “Godzilla Hotel” further enhances the thrill with special Godzilla-themed rooms, offering windows providing a face-to-face encounter with the mammoth reptilian monster.
Shinjuku's Godzilla Road is an impressive neon street in the center of it all. The street is literally a shrine to the rubber-suited golden age of Japan's greatest Kaiju or strange creature.
Directly in Godzilla’s sights lays Shinjuku’s Robot Restaurant.
Easily one of the most bizarre attractions in Tokyo, you will leave forever wondering what you’ve just witnessed.
The third-floor bar proudly offers Western drinks and refreshments (order the French toast and hash browns) while a band dressed as robots plays wedding-band-like renditions of songs such as ABBA’s “Mamma Mia,” “Ave Maria,” and assorted anime themes — and that’s just the pre-show reception.
The main event, located in the basement, delivers completely as advertised with a dizzying array of sword-wielding robots, mecha-dinosaurs, dancers and explosive pyrotechnics as the ticket says: “Dancing!! Kicking up the excitement!! Wildly swinging around!!”
To reveal more would spoil the experience.
The Electric Paradise of Akihabara: Tokyo's Nucleus for Otaku Culture
Often dubbed as the "Otaku Haven", Akihabara is one of Tokyo's liveliest districts and serves as the heart of the city's thriving anime and video game scene. Eerily mirroring game cartridges, its radiant, multicolored arcade structures overflow with an impressive collection of games powered by advanced technologies.
A few steps away from each other, gamers can explore four towering SEGA-branded arcades, known simply as SEGA Akihabara 1-4.
The vicinity teems with a rich array of manga shops, model stores, and trading card boutiques. The iconic video game shop, Super Potato stands proudly with its entire range of nearly every game ever created, and is particularly recognized for its extraordinary array of rare vintage games.
Akihabara also enthralls visitors with unique food experiences at its numerous theme-based eateries. Among the top attractions are the anime-inspired maid cafes and an assortment of animal-themed venues such as cat, owl, and hedgehog cafes.
If you're an enthusiast of anime and video game culture, Akihabara is an absolute must-visit destination right in the heart of Tokyo. This vibrant district is the go-to spot for passionate geeks seeking out all things cool and nerdy.
As you wander through the side streets of Akihabara, you'll be surrounded by an array of electronics stores, ranging from small one-man stalls to large, sleek retailers. These stores offer a wide variety of specialized gadgets and parts, catering to every tech-savvy individual's needs.
Sofmap is a prominent name in Akihabara, operating six specialized stores within the micro-neighborhood itself. You'll find each store with its unique department, providing an extensive range of products. Another notable spot is Radio Kaikan, recognized by its iconic bright yellow neon sign. This location is home to 30 independent stores, boasting an impressive collection of toys and collectibles.
While Akihabara might be known for its modern geek culture, just a few blocks away, you'll discover the remarkable Kanda Myojin Shinto Shrine. With a rich history spanning nearly 1,300 years, this ancient shrine was popular among the warrior class during the Edo Period. Today, local gamers flock to the shrine to seek blessings for their gaming systems, hoping to ward off any technical glitches or faults.
With so much to explore, it is recommended to dedicate at least half a day to fully immerse yourself in the wonders of Akihabara.
Odaiba: A Sentient Island Home to Gundam
If you're a devotee of the “Gundam” anime series, a visit to the artificial island, Odaiba, will serve as a visual feast. A functioning, life-size Unicorn Gundam Statue gathers attention at Diver City Tokyo Plaza. Towering at over 60 feet, RX-0 Unicorn Gundam is almost as tall as the bustling shopping center it vigilantly overlooks.
The towering full-scale model triggers an awe-inspiring transformation from unicorn to destroy mode four times a day. Each transformation, though swift and lasting only few minutes, leaves a striking impression. Routine demonstrations happen several times during the day, appealing to many fans.
Fans of the anime series Gundam will absolutely want to take a trip to the man-made island of Odaiba, where a functioning life-size Unicorn Gundam Statue greets visitors.
Located within Diver City is The Gundam Base Tokyo, a library-like fan store showcasing examples of every Gundam kit ever produced, as well as a quiet work area for customers to build their own models with professional kit-builders to consult with.
Tokyo's top hotels from moderate to ridiculous in price
Ikebekuro’s Sunshine City: Subculture central
More relaxed than Shinjuku and Akihabara’s busy entertainment areas, the up-and-coming Ikebekuro disctrict is particularly welcoming to niche subcultures.
Anchored by Sunshine City, a building complex with a 60-story skyscraper at its center, Ikebekuro is a good stop after you’ve explored the multi-level stores lining Akihabara’s streets.
Discover the Pokemon Center Mega Tokyo nestled in the vibrant district of Ikebekuro, Tokyo. This thriving area is known for its diverse range of subcultures and is the perfect haven for otaku enthusiasts.
In the heart of Ikebekuro lies Sunshine City - an exciting destination not only reminiscent of the Pokemon universe, but also the exclusive home to Pokemon Center Mega Tokyo. This mecca for Nintendo video game fans offers a treasure trove of rare Pokemon editions and an impressive collection of life-sized figurines featuring beloved characters like Mewtwo, Charizard, and Pikachu.
However, Sunshine City is not limited to Pokemon lovers alone. Anime aficionados from all walks of life gather here for fan gatherings and meetups, embracing their passion for various anime cartoons. Engage in the popular activities of pin-trading and trading-card bartering, immersing yourself in the vibrant energy of the community.
If Pokemon and anime aren't your cup of tea, fear not! Naka-ikebukuro Park in this district boasts an exciting cos-play scene. Observe or even participate in the spectacle as individuals don elaborate costumes, embodying their favorite characters to perfection.
Your visit to Ikebekuro promises an unforgettable experience where Otaku culture thrives, offering something for everyone, whether you're a Pokemon fan, anime enthusiast, or simply curious about the fascinating world of Japanese subcultures.
Tokyo Dome: Experience Japan's Thriving Baseball Culture
With a rich history dating back to the 1870s, baseball has become a national pastime in Japan. Tokyo, in particular, holds a special place in the hearts of baseball enthusiasts, as it will be the host city for the return of baseball to the Olympics in 2020.
Immerse yourself in the electrifying atmosphere of a Japanese baseball game at The Tokyo Dome, home to The Yomiuri Giants - fondly known as "The New York Yankees of Japan." The sheer passion and fervor of the fans in the stands is incomparable, making it an unforgettable experience for any sports enthusiast.
Don't miss the opportunity to witness this captivating spectacle firsthand - join the devoted fans and cheer on The Yomiuri Giants at The Tokyo Dome. Engage in the contagious energy that fills the air, as the players showcase their exceptional skills and compete in a sport that holds a special place in the heart of Japan.
A visit to The Tokyo Dome, home to The Yomiuri Giants, "The New York Yankees of Japan" is a must for baseball lovers and geeks alike.
Along with distinct food offerings such as Takoyaki (little fried balls of dough stuffed with Octopus) and pork katsu sandos, a game at Tokyo Dome includes a boisterous cheering section in the bleachers, equipped with thundersticks (the inflatable noise makers) and gigantic team flags.
With a compact pep band leading organized cheers and songs, the banging drums and daunting chants make for a competitive atmosphere to the final out.
Fan of the game or not: You will be entertained.
Harajuku: Fashionistas dress the part
This internationally-known fashion district in Tokyo is famous for the defiantly bold and colorful style named after the neighborhood, its streets acting as fashion runways for outrageous outfits.
While it’s hard to resist the vortex of Takeshita Street, the shoulder-to-shoulder pedestrian shopping strip located directly off the Harajuku train station, with its enticing larger-than-your-head rainbow cotton candy and dizzying array of brand shops, intrepid shoppers will be rewarded by stepping outside its cramped and hectic quarters.
Adjacent Cat Street assumes a more relaxed avenue to stroll and shop, with resale stores focused on higher-end brands. Close by, Harajuku Chicago boasts a wide variety of vintage clothing to peruse including baseball-team Happi coats and traditional kimonos.
Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Harajuku offers a unique and trendy setting for your fashion photoshoot. Its mirrored entranceway provides a multi-dimensional backdrop, allowing you to showcase your stylish ensembles from every angle. One of the standout boutiques in the district is Sukajyan Dept, located on Omotesando Avenue. This small store is home to an impressive collection of souvenir jackets designed by Ken Kakinuma. Notably, these jackets have gained popularity and have been worn by celebrities like Conan O'Brien and Kanye West.What sets these jackets apart is their historical significance. Originally introduced as souvenirs by World War II servicemen, they have now become a symbol of Japan's fashion culture, particularly among the country's youth.Once you've put together the perfect outfit, head back to Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Harajuku to capture stunning photos in their mirrored entranceway. This unique location adds a touch of glamour and a sense of depth to your images. So, whether you're a fashion enthusiast or simply love to experiment with your style, Tokyo's Otaku culture offers a variety of vibrant and distinct experiences that will leave a lasting impression. Soak in the energy of the city, discover hidden gems like Sukajyan Dept, and capture your fashion journey in the heart of Harajuku.[Visit Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Harajuku](https://www.tokyu-plaza.com/omotesando-harajuku/en/) [Explore Sukajyan Dept](http://www.sukajyan.akakumo.info/index.php)
Beyond the district: Mascot-spotting
Mascots are so common in Tokyo that at times they seem to blend into the crowd unnoticed. It’s not just districts or sports teams — it seems every event, brand or obscure municipal office has its own mascot. It’s not unusual to see Kumamon the bear giving a casual pep talk to the Japanese women’s handball team or drumming cat Nyango Star rocking out in a Harajuku department store.
Mascots, they’re just like us!
They’re chronicled on twitter by @mondo_mascots, an account run by British-born, Tokyo-based Chris Carlier. Carlier figures the popularity of mascots are “an extension of Japan’s love of novelty and ‘kawaii’ things.”
The viral Twitter account celebrating Japan's mascot culture
One unique aspect of Tokyo's Otaku culture is the tradition of creating fun-loving and adorable characters that represent symbols of Japanese culture. In Shibuya, a district famous for its bustling crosswalk, the ever-loyal Japanese Akita dog, Hachikō, is celebrated as a local symbol. Notably, the district even designed their local buses to resemble Hachikō.
Among the many beloved characters, Chiitan, an accident-prone otter, has gained popularity for its hilarious slapstick videos posted daily online. Another notable character is Sanchawan, a local mascot with a head shaped like a tea bowl, adding a touch of absurdity that is often embraced in Tokyo's geeky culture.
Discovering these unique mascots and characters is a delightful experience for visitors diving into Tokyo's Otaku culture. It adds an extra layer of charm and whimsy to the vibrant streets of this mesmerizing city.