Nakano Broadway

Awesome hidden gem (not so hidden anymore I guess) to buy anime, otaku merchandise as well as the primary reason why I visited. WATCHES. Whether used or brand new the various shops here have many to offer from different popular brands like Rolex, Omega, Grand Seiko, JLC, Patek Philippe and many others. Women's luxury bags are also being offered. Just roam around and compare prices and inventory and most likely you could walk away with your dream watch tax free (if you are a foreigner).

A great arcade to wander up and down even if you are not looking for anything in particular. Right outside the station, and plenty of food choices too. All the more colourful here with the koinoburi decorating your way.

Tucked away just five minutes from Shinjuku by train, Nakano Broadway is a paradise for anime fans, retro gamers, and treasure hunters of all kinds. This multi-floor shopping complex may look modest from the outside, but inside it’s a labyrinth of nostalgia, collectibles, and geeky wonders. 🕹️ What’s Inside? Each floor is like a time machine – packed with rare figurines, vintage manga, capsule toys, and second-hand gems you won’t find anywhere else. It’s Mandarake central here – with many branches specializing in everything from signed manga to old-school PlayStation games. 🎨 Not Just for Otakus Beyond anime, you’ll find quirky fashion boutiques, oddball antiques, underground art, and even traditional sweets. There’s also a shrine tucked away in the upper floors for a moment of peace amid the chaos. 🍜 Fuel Up! Grab a melonpan or sip a bubble tea in between shops – Nakano’s shotengai (covered street) leading up to Broadway is filled with snack spots and cozy eateries. 📸 Pro Tip: Look up and look closely – many of the best finds are hidden behind unassuming doors or nestled in tiny shops on the upper levels. This place rewards curiosity. ⸻ ✨ Whether you’re a hardcore collector or just love the quirky side of Japan, Nakano Broadway is a must-visit. It’s Akihabara’s weirder, cooler cousin – and a place where time stands still in the best way.

Nakano Broadway in Tokyo is a treasure trove for fans of Japanese pop culture, offering a unique shopping experience that blends nostalgia with discovery. Located just a short walk from Nakano Station, this multi-story shopping complex houses over 300 shops, each offering a diverse array of collectibles, vintage toys, manga, and anime merchandise. The atmosphere is vibrant and eclectic, with each floor showcasing a different facet of otaku culture. The second and third floors are particularly popular, featuring Mandarake's various specialty stores, which cater to different interests such as vintage toys, rare manga, and cosplay items. For instance, Mandarake on the fourth floor offers quirky Showa-era toys and corporate novelties, while BIGYARD Railway Models on the second floor specializes in second-hand railway models . Beyond shopping, Nakano Broadway also offers unique dining options. Mitsuboshi Curry, located just outside the complex, serves a rich and sweet "French curry" over rice, often accompanied by tender pork cutlets . While the building is aging and some shops may be cramped, the charm of Nakano Broadway lies in its maze-like corridors and the thrill of finding hidden gems. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a casual visitor, Nakano Broadway offers an immersive dive into Japan's pop culture scene.

Stores seem to open at their leisure throughout the morning. Lots to see, and in summer it’s nice escape from the heat. If watches and vintage japanese toys are your interest, there is a lot to see here.