Tokyo Day Guides
by Trip To Japan
How to Spend Your Day in Akihabara
Akihabara, also known as “Electric Town,” is one of the most exciting areas in Tokyo. It's famous for anime shops, electronics, arcades, and themed cafés. Whether you're a fan of Japanese pop culture or just curious, there's something here for everyone.
Let’s explore a fun and full day in Akihabara!
Take a Train to Akihabara Station
Akihabara Station is easily reached by several train lines:
JR Yamanote /Keihin Tohoku/Chuo-Sobu Line – Best for travelers coming from other major Tokyo areas like Shinjuku or Ueno.
Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line – Good if you're coming from Ginza or Roppongi.
Tsukuba Express – Connects to Akihabara from outside Tokyo.
Traveler’s Tip: Try to arrive around 10:00 AM when most stores start opening.
Start at Yodobashi Camera Akihabara
Walking Distance: Right next to Akihabara Station
Start your day with a visit to this massive electronics store. It has 9 floors of tech, gadgets, toys, video games, and even a food court.
What to Explore:
✔ Cameras, laptops, and audio gear
✔ Japanese watches and beauty gadgets
✔ Entire floors for anime figures, trading cards, and LEGO
✔ Try the capsule toy machines (gachapon)
Explore Akihabara’s Anime and Game Shops
Now it's time to dive into the heart of Akihabara's pop culture scene.
Top Stores to Visit:
Animate Akihabara – Anime, manga, DVDs, and exclusive merchandise.
Super Potato – Famous retro game shop with old consoles and games.
Mandarake – A huge secondhand store for anime, manga, and cosplay goods.
Radio Kaikan – Multi-floor building with collectible shops and model kits.
Traveler’s Tip: Don’t worry if you’re not an anime expert—just browsing is fun!
Try a Themed Café Experience
Akihabara is full of unique cafés with fun themes. Great for a midday break!
Café Options:
Have Lunch in Akihabara
There’s a mix of casual eats, ramen shops, and modern cafés in the area.
Recommended Lunch Spots:
Gyukatsu Motomura – Famous for breaded and lightly seared beef cutlet.
Roast Beef Ōno - Simple, busy eatery known for its bowl of egg-topped, tender roast Wagyu beef & rice.
Komaki Shokudo Kamakura Fushikian (Vegan Friendly) - Located inside a mall, it serves traditonal Japanese vegan food.
Visit a Japanese Arcade
Popular Arcades in Akihabara:
GiGO Akihabara (formerly SEGA) – Multi-floor game center with claw machines, rhythm games, and photo booths.
TAITO Station – Another big name with classic arcade vibes.
BEEP Akihabara – Great for retro game lovers.
What to Do:
✔ Try a claw machine (win plushies or anime figures)
✔ Play rhythm or fighting games
✔ Get goofy in a Japanese purikura (photo booth)
Shop for Souvenirs and Gachapon
Gachapon Kaikan – This capsule toy shop has hundreds of gachapon machines with everything from tiny sushi keychains to mini anime collectibles.
Don Quijote Akihabara – Big, multi-level discount store selling souvenirs, snacks, cosmetics, cosplay items, and quirky gifts.
✔ Look for quirky Japan-only items
✔ Try a new snack or candy
✔ Browse the cosplay and novelty goods floor
Take a Break at a Chill Café
In the afternoon, rest at a quiet café and recharge.
Cafés to Relax In:
Cafe Asan – Trendy café with sofa swings and delicious fluffy pancakes.
Komeda’s Coffee – Famous chain with comfy seating and sweet toast.
Explore Akiba Cultures Zone
If you still have energy, check out this multi-floor building with:
✔ Figures, model kits, and cosplay shops
✔ Trading card game areas
✔ Occasional small exhibitions or events
It’s a great place to pick up final souvenirs or enjoy the energy of Akihabara at night.
Enjoy Dinner in Akihabara
End your day with a tasty dinner before heading back.
Recommended Dinner Places:
Tsukada Nojo - Classic izakaya with a great atmsophere and an amazing variety of dishes.
Fujiyama Akihabara - Sushi restaurant with an all you can eat option as well as giant crab dish.
Kyushu Jangara Ramen (Vegan Friendly) - Popular ramen restaurant with a vegan ramen option.
Ome Farm Kitchen (Vegetarian Friendly) - Fresh ingredients are the stars of this farm to table restaurant.
Head Back to Your Hotel
Akihabara is well-connected by train, so getting back to your hotel is easy. You can take the JR Yamanote Line, the Hibiya Line, or even walk to nearby areas like Ueno or Kanda if you're staying close.
