Akihabara

Overview

Akihabara — "Electric Town" — is Tokyo's legendary district for electronics, anime, manga, and video game culture. It is the physical epicenter of Japan's massive otaku (enthusiast) subculture.

Highlights

• Electronics Stores: Multi-story mega-stores like Yodobashi Camera selling everything from components to the latest gadgets, often at tax-free tourist prices.
• Anime & Manga Shops: Enormous retailers like Animate, Mandarake, and Gamers selling figurines, costumes, doujinshi, and rare collectibles across multiple floors.
• Maid Cafés: A uniquely Akihabara phenomenon where waitresses in maid costumes serve food with elaborate theatrical performances.

History

Post-WWII, Akihabara emerged as a black market for radio parts, evolving into an electronics bazaar. By the 2000s, it had pivoted from hardware to otaku culture as electronics production moved overseas.

Visitor Tips

• Bargain Hunting: Check the street-level stalls under the railway tracks for discounted cables, components, and second-hand electronics.
• Retro Gaming: Super Potato is a legendary multi-floor retro game shop selling classic consoles and cartridges.
• Duration: 2–3 hours.