For a lot of us, anime and manga have been childhood mainstays.
Apart from the fantastical elements and fight scenes, there’s something about the characters that make us root for them – yes, even for the villains. That’s fascinating because the culture being shown to us is most likely different from ours or what we’re used to.
So we grow up not just clinging on to the lessons we’ve learnt from anime and manga, but with a curiosity of Japanese culture. That’s why given the chance, if any of us were given a free plane ticket anywhere else, we’d probably head over to Japan and see for ourselves what these places and traditions are.
If you’re already planning to go there, here’s a nifty list of activities and attractions in Japan for the anime and manga fan.
Shop at Akihabara District in Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo
Known by many names like Mecca of Otakus, Akiba, or Electric Town, Akihabara is a shopping district that mostly features electronics, manga, anime, and video game shops. You can also find themed-cafes there like maid cafes and idol cafes.
The best part is this is probably the best place to find merchandise for animes and mangas that are either lesser known or older. So if you’ve been looking to finally get the missing item for your collection, Akihabara is your best bet.
Another activity you can do here is take anime-themed tours where you’ll see real-life anime locations like No Game No Life and Love Live.
Find Rare Collectibles in Nakano Broadway, Tokyo
Another shopping hub in Tokyo is Nakano Broadway, which is known for its rare and hard-to-find Japanese collectibles.
Nakano Broadway is undeniably a hub of otaku culture, as it offers a plethora of anime and manga merchandise. It also boasts a collection of vintage toys and figurines for the OG anime enthusiasts who grew up watching Astro Boy and Ultra Man on TV. Simply put, Nakano Broadway is a paradise for new and veteran otakus alike.
Apart from 24/7 shopping, Nakano Broadway also provides the unique experience to meet and interact with other anime fans. If you are the type to take anime and manga interests to the next level, exploring Nakano Broadway’s stores are a must!
Brush Up On Your Manga History at the Kyoto International Manga Museum
Can you really call yourself a certified otaku if you haven’t visited the Kyoto International Manga Museum?
Located in the cultural center of Kyoto, the museum is a treasure trove of manga goodness that paved the way for future manga-kas to flourish today. It proudly displays over 300,000 manga volumes that chronicle the evolution of manga as an art form and allow guests to appreciate its diversity.
And the best part? The Kyoto International Manga Museum is not only a place to admire manga, it’s the perfect place to live and breathe it! If you decide to visit the area, you can participate in workshops and events to dive deeper into the world of manga and anime. Your inner otaku will thank you for it!
Make Your Pilot Dreams Come True at DiverCity Tokyo Plaza, Odaiba District, Tokyo
Ever dreamed of piloting your very own Gundam RX-78? Then DiverCity Tokyo Plaza should be first on your must-visit list in Japan.
Located in the heart of the country’s capital, this shopping and entertainment complex is a hub for all things Gundam. It offers interactive exhibitions, virtual reality experiences, and a whole lot of life-size Gundam models! DiverCity Tokyo Plaza even provides educational insights about the Gundam franchise and its impact on modern Japanese culture, so anyone would appreciate a visit to this magical shopping complex.
Gotta Catch ‘Em All at the Pokémon Center, Tokyo and Osaka
We all dreamed of being the very best, like no one ever was.
That’s why the Pokémon Centers in Tokyo and Osaka are a must-visit if you’re a fan of the iconic franchise. Each center is a holy grail for all things Pokémon – they offer exclusive experiences and merchandise that will leave even the most seasoned trainers drooling! From special exhibitions to interactive events, the Pokemon Centers are a playground for Pokemon enthusiasts of all ages.
Without a doubt, the Pokemon Centers of Japan are the ultimate destination for any Pokemon trainer, offering a unique and unforgettable experience that you won’t find anywhere else.
Our Final Takeaway: Japan
Japan is undeniably a paradise for anime and manga lovers, offering a wealth of experiences and attractions that will delight fans of all ages. From the historic Kyoto International Manga Museum to the bustling DiverCity Tokyo Plaza, there’s something for everyone in the land of the rising sun.
Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in the world of anime and manga, or simply to explore the rich culture of Japan, be sure to add these must-visit destinations to your itinerary. With their endless offerings and unforgettable experiences, you’re sure to leave Japan with a newfound appreciation for the world of anime and manga.
So, pack your bags, grab your manga, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime. Japan awaits you with open arms, ready to unleash its boundless wonders and endless possibilities. Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of anime and manga!
