Akihabara is an area located in the center of Tokyo, particularly famous for its vibrant subculture of anime and games. However, Akihabara has much more to offer, including an electric town, historical landmarks, and delicious gourmet spots. This time, we will introduce the charms of Akihabara, divided into gourmet and sightseeing spots.
About Akihabara
Overview and Attractions of Akihabara
Akihabara is an area located in the center of Tokyo, known as a mecca for anime, games, and electronic devices. It is the heart of “otaku” culture, attracting numerous visitors every day. The charm of Akihabara lies in its unique atmosphere and diverse sightseeing spots.
Location and Access of Akihabara
Akihabara is located in “Chiyoda-ku,” Tokyo, and is conveniently accessible via multiple lines such as the JR Yamanote Line, Keihin-Tohoku Line, Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line, and Tsukuba Express. It is also close to Tokyo Station, making it extremely easy to access.
History and Culture of Akihabara
Akihabara developed as an electric town after World War II and is now known as the center of subcultures like anime, games, and manga. The history of the electric town is deep, once a place where stalls sold industrial parts. Even today, you can feel its legacy with many specialty stores lining the streets.
Must-See Spots in Akihabara
Akihabara has many spots worth visiting. Here are some of the highly recommended locations.
Akihabara Electric Town
Akihabara Electric Town is a mecca for electronics enthusiasts from around the world. Numerous electronics stores gather here, offering products ranging from new to vintage. “Yodobashi Camera Akihabara” is the focal point, providing not only electronics but also fashion and dining options.
Kanda Shrine (“Kanda Myojin”)
“Kanda Shrine” is known for bringing good luck in matchmaking and business prosperity. It also frequently hosts collaboration events with anime and games, making it a must-see spot for subculture fans.
mAAch ecute Kanda Manseibashi
A commercial facility that repurposes the remnants of the former Manseibashi Station, offering a unique blend of history and modernity. From the riverside deck and platform, you can view the Kanda River and the Chuo Line trains.
Animate Akihabara
“Animate Akihabara” is a paradise for fans of anime, comics, and games. The renovated store hosts events like autograph sessions and talk shows, ensuring a full day of fun.
ASOBIBA Akihabara Field
“ASOBIBA Akihabara Field” is a facility where you can enjoy survival games using airsoft guns. They offer beginner-friendly lessons and rental sets, making it easy to join in.
Akihabara Radio Kaikan
“Akihabara Radio Kaikan” is a commercial building with 10 above-ground floors and 2 basement levels. It houses various specialty stores selling electronic parts, cards, and figures. Explore the building like you’re hunting for treasures.
2k540 AKI-OKA ARTISAN
“2k540 AKI-OKA ARTISAN” is a collection of shops located under the elevated tracks between JR Akihabara Station and Okachimachi Station. The shops are themed around “monozukuri” (craftsmanship) and offer leather goods, dyed fabrics, ceramics, and more.
Nicolai-do
“Nicolai-do” is a cathedral built by the Greek Orthodox Archbishop Nicholas Kasatkin. The brick building is a designated Important Cultural Property of Japan and offers a retro atmosphere. It is about a 2-minute walk from Ochanomizu Station.
Yushima Tenjin Shrine
“Yushima Tenjin Shrine” is dedicated to the god of learning, Sugawara no Michizane. The shrine grounds include a plum garden, where the “Ume Matsuri” (Plum Blossom Festival) is held annually. It is about an 8-minute walk from Okachimachi Station.
Akiba Fukurou Owl Cafe
“Akiba Fukurou Owl Cafe” is a cafe where you can interact with adorable owls. It operates on a small-group, reservation-only basis, and offers free commemorative photos taken by a professional photographer. It is about a 3-minute walk from Akihabara Station.
Gourmet Experience in Akihabara
Akihabara is also a treasure trove of B-grade gourmet foods. You can enjoy many cheap and delicious dishes while walking around.
Gyudon Specialty Sanbo
“Gyudon Specialty Sanbo” is a very famous gyudon (beef bowl) restaurant in Akihabara. Its simple and nostalgic taste is well-regarded, with the “Gyu-sara” (beef plate) being particularly popular. Adding an egg to eat it sukiyaki-style is also recommended.
Gohan-dokoro Adachi
“Gohan-dokoro Adachi” is known for its large servings. The “Adachi Lunch” comes with a whole “sho” (1.8 liters) of rice, perfect for those confident in their eating capacity. Of course, regular set meals are also available.
Tan Kiyoshi
“Tan Kiyoshi” is a yakiniku (grilled meat) restaurant where you can enjoy delicious beef tongue. The occasionally offered “Beef Tongue Stew” is so popular that it attracts long lines. The tender beef tongue that falls apart is exquisite.
Ramen Kagemusha
“Ramen Kagemusha” is well-known as an inspired version of “Ramen Jiro.” It features a pork bone-based broth, medium-thick noodles, and thick slices of pork. The “Kagemusha Ramen (All-In)” is especially recommended for its generous portions.
Atariya Shokudo
“Atariya Shokudo” offers “Raira-men,” a local B-grade gourmet from Miyakonojo, Miyazaki Prefecture. The “Raira-men” (700 yen), featuring thick chanpon noodles with spicy sauce, is an addictive delight. It’s also recommended to enjoy the leftover sauce with rice.
Tonkatsu Fukuyoshi
“Tonkatsu Fukuyoshi” is a tonkatsu (pork cutlet) restaurant located in a back alley of Akihabara. The “Katsu Curry” (850 yen) is especially recommended, featuring crispy chicken cutlet with spicy curry. On Saturdays, you can enjoy it for just 650 yen on service day.
Star Kebab Takeaway
“Star Kebab Takeaway” offers fast food kebabs, a Turkish delight. The “Star Doner Sandwich” (500 yen), which allows you to choose from beef or chicken and 10 different sauces, is highly recommended for its generous portion.
Omusubi no GABA
Located near Suehirocho Station, but also a 5-minute walk from Akihabara, “Omusubi no GABA” offers rice balls made with nutritious GABA rice. The “Okaka Cream Cheese” (220 yen) is particularly exquisite.
Oden Can
The “Oden Can,” a specialty of Akihabara, became a huge hit in the late 1990s. The canned oden, available in two types: one with beef tendon and one with fish balls, can be purchased from vending machines for 320 yen each. It is especially recommended during the cold season.