Akihabara is a lively district in Tokyo, renowned not only for its tech shopping but also as a vibrant hub for anime, manga, and Japanese pop culture. Thanks to Japan’s seamless public transit system, it’s an easy destination to explore, whether you’re staying for a few days or just visiting for the day.
Where to Stay
Nohga Hotel Akihabara Tokyo
In a suburb famous for bright colors and shining lights, the Nohga Hotel’s simple and warm design feels calming and reassuring. This artsy spot is more than just a place to rest your head, with high-quality sound systems and regular cultural events. They also have a pizzeria on-site with a casual bar area and an open kitchen.
Where to Drink
Low-Non-Bar
Low-Non-Bar is a cocktail bar that blends modern design with Japanese tradition. It has an extensive cocktail list, moody lighting, soft jazz, and unique glassware. This blend of the old with the new also extends into their cocktail list, with signature concoctions like the wasabi cocktail or matcha old fashioned. Sober travelers can also enjoy non-alcoholic gin and tonics and other mocktails.
Where to Eat
Roast Beef Ono
Roast Beef Ono is worth its famously long wait. This restaurant is known for its unique take on wagyu beef and house-made horseradish paste. The roast beef bowls can be paired with toppings and sauces or enjoyed on its own.
Tonkatsu Marugo
Tonkatsu Marugo is a cozy spot with homemade tonkatsu, or fried pork cutlets. These set meals come with cabbage, pickled vegetables, steamed rice, and dressing. We also recommend trying the red miso soup and jasmine tea.
Hakata Furyu
There are a few Hakata Furyu locations around Tokyo, but the Akihabara spot is their flagship store. Their most popular dish is the Spicy Tonkotsu Ramen which comes with red pickled ginger, toasted sesame seeds, and mushroom strips. It’s a quick and local spot with up to two free refills of noodles, so be sure to show up hungry.
Where to Visit
Go (Duty-Free) Tech Shopping
Akihabara is also known as “the electric town” thanks to its hundreds of electronic shops that offer everything from cameras, televisions, mobile phones, and home appliances. Shoppers can visit chain stores like Sofmap and Laox, but we recommend exploring the smaller independent shops that you find on the side streets.
Many stores feature international models as well as tax-free shopping for foreign tourists. Be sure to bring your passport and inquire about each shop's policies in order to take advantage of these deals.
Catch a Show at AKB48 Theater
Those who listen to J-Pop, or Japanese pop music, may be familiar with AKB48. As the name reference, this band started in Akihabara with 48 members, but their ranks have grown to 140 band members. This makes them the biggest pop group in the world (in terms of number that is… they aren’t quite at the same level as One Direction or BTS in terms of fame). It is with this absolute musical army that they maintain their own theater and perform for their fans every night.
Prepare for your trip by entering the lottery for AKB48 tickets.
Play Games at GiGO
While there are many game centers in Akihabara, the GiGO game centers are some of the most iconic. There are four different GiGO arcades in Akihabara, and each have different prizes and floors of new, fun games. They have nostalgic classics as well as more modern attractions, making it a great place to visit with kids or on a quirky date.
Visit Kanda Myojin Shrine
For a more traditional Japanese experience, visitors can also stop by the Kanda Myojin Shrine, which was founded in 730 before being relocated during the Edo period. It is said that three major gods are enshrined at this site, including two of the Gods of Fortune.
This is also the kickoff point for the Kanda Matsuri, which is regarded as one of Japan’s three greatest festivals. This celebration happens in May of every odd-numbered year and passes through central Tokyo.
.jpg)
