Ikebukuro is a popular tourist area located in Toshima Ward, Tokyo. It is an area where you can always find something new, with attractions like “Otome Road,” known as a hub for otaku culture, and the redeveloped “Hareza Ikebukuro.” In this article, we will introduce basic information about Ikebukuro, as well as its must-visit tourist spots, gourmet locations, and shopping spots.
Overview and Attractions of Ikebukuro
Ikebukuro is an area in Toshima Ward, Tokyo, where you can enjoy entertainment and shopping. The area around the station is packed with tourist spots, offering a wide range of attractions including anime, games, gourmet food, and shopping. Every visit brings new discoveries, making it a city that never bores tourists.
Must-Visit Tourist Spots in Ikebukuro
Ikebukuro has many must-see tourist spots. The following classic spots are sure to captivate visitors.
Sunshine City
“Sunshine City” is a large complex that houses a shopping mall, aquarium, planetarium, and observatory, among other entertainment facilities. At the “Sunshine Aquarium,” you can see penguins swimming as if they were flying in the sky.
Sunshine 60 Observatory
This observatory offers a panoramic view of Tokyo from a height of 251 meters above sea level. It also features interactive attractions like VR content and the “Infinity Scape” light and mirror tunnel.
Nanja Town
This indoor theme park includes attractions such as the “Fukubukuro 7-Chome Shopping Street,” which recreates the atmosphere of the Showa 30s, and the “Hugood! Town,” where you can enjoy collaboration cafes. It’s a place where both children and adults can have fun.
Otome Road
Located near “Sunshine City,” this street is lined with shops specializing in anime and manga, with a rich variety of character goods aimed at female fans. There are also cosplay shops and cafes, making it a place to fully enjoy otaku culture.
Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre
This cultural facility hosts a variety of performances, including concerts and plays. The concert hall, which features one of the world’s largest pipe organs, is a must-see.
Ancient Orient Museum
This museum exhibits the history and culture of the ancient Orient region. The artifacts from Syria and ancient Egyptian exhibits are particularly fascinating, making it a must-visit spot for history enthusiasts.
Jiyu Gakuen Myonichikan
Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, this building is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. You can enjoy guided tours and a cafe.
Ikebukuro Nishiguchi Park
This park, renovated in 2019, features an outdoor theater and a multi-purpose space equipped with a large screen. The park is beautifully lit up at night.
Pokemon Center Mega Tokyo
This shop offers a wide range of Pokemon merchandise and even has Pikachu-themed sweets. It’s a must-visit spot for Pokemon fans.
Hareza Ikebukuro
This complex, which opened in 2020, includes a cinema, theaters, and cafes. The “Tokyo Tatemono Brillia HALL” is particularly attractive with its luxurious interior.
Q Plaza Ikebukuro
This commercial facility, which opened in 2019, includes a cinema, restaurants, and amusement facilities. The “Grand Cinema Sunshine” boasts one of the largest screens in Japan.
Sauna & Hotel Karumaru Ikebukuro
This is one of the largest sauna facilities in the Kanto region, opened in 2019. It offers four types of saunas and five types of baths.
Gashapon Department Store Ikebukuro Main Store
This is one of the world’s largest Gashapon (capsule toy) specialty stores, which opened in 2021. With about 3,000 Gashapon machines, it’s a paradise for capsule toy enthusiasts.
Ikebukuro Engeijo
This theater offers traditional “rakugo” (Japanese comic storytelling) and “manzai” (Japanese stand-up comedy). You can enjoy various performances throughout the year.
Gourmet
Ikebukuro has numerous dining options, offering a rich variety of gourmet experiences. Here are some recommended gourmet spots.
Onigiri Bongo
“Onigiri Bongo” is a long-established onigiri (rice ball) specialty shop known for its long lines and popularity on social media. Their fluffy rice balls made with Koshihikari rice from Niigata Prefecture are highly popular. They offer a variety of fillings and take-out options.
Kitchen ABC
This long-established Western-style restaurant was founded in 1969. You can enjoy hearty set meals at reasonable prices.
Penguin no Iru BAR Ikebukuro
This bar features real penguins that you can observe while enjoying your meal.
Detective Cafe Progress
This cafe bar is run by a real detective, where you can enjoy behind-the-scenes stories of detective work and delicious meals.
Butler Cafe Swallowtail
This cafe offers a unique experience with butler service, where you can enjoy tea and desserts.
Alice in an Old Castle
This cafe restaurant is themed around “Alice in Wonderland,” offering photogenic dishes.
Nanja Gyoza Stadium
Located within “Nanja Town,” this food court offers local gyoza (dumplings) from all over Japan.
Shopping
Ikebukuro also offers a variety of shopping areas. Here are some recommended shopping spots.
Seibu Ikebukuro Main Store
This large department store located at the east exit of Ikebukuro Station offers a wide range of domestic and international brands. The food section in the basement is also well-stocked.
Tobu Department Store Ikebukuro
This large department store, directly connected to Ikebukuro Station, offers a wide range of stores, from fashion and cosmetics to furniture.
Ikebukuro PARCO
This fashion building offers a variety of brand shops, making it a great spot for fashion enthusiasts.
Junkudo Ikebukuro Main Store
This is one of the largest bookstores in Tokyo, offering a wide range of books from specialized texts to magazines. There is also a cafe inside.
Animate Ikebukuro Main Store
This large store offers a wide range of anime and manga-related goods and frequently hosts events.
Mandarake Ikebukuro
This store offers a large selection of second-hand manga and figures, making it a treasure trove for collectors.
Sunshine City ALPA
This shopping mall within “Sunshine City” offers a variety of fashion, goods, and dining options.
Q Plaza Ikebukuro
This commercial facility offers a cinema, restaurants, and amusement facilities. You can enjoy a movie in between your shopping.