Japan’s anime culture has captured the hearts and imagination of audiences worldwide. By visiting some iconic landmarks, exploring themed cafés and shopping for exclusive merchandise, you can enjoy an exciting anime-inspired adventure in Japan.
Anime (Japanese: アニメ), is a hand-drawn and computer-generated animation originating in Japan. For fans, travelling to Japan enables you to experience the anime first-hand in its place of origin. It is also an amazing way of enjoying the Japanese culture.
Mitaka’s Ghibli Museum
Located in Inokashira Park, the Ghibli Museum offers a magical journey into the world of Studio Ghibli. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring original artwork, watch exclusive short films and immerse themselves in the enchanting worlds created by Hayao Miyazaki and his team. The museum’s design and atmosphere capture the whimsical essence of Studio Ghibli’s films.
Universal Studios Japan (Osaka)
Universal Studios Japan features attractions inspired by popular anime series. The Attack on Titan and Evangelion attractions offer thrilling rides and immersive experiences transporting visitors into the worlds of these iconic series. The park also hosts seasonal events featuring anime-themed parades and shows.
Tokyo’s Akihabara District
Known as the mecca for anime and manga fans, Akihabara is a bustling district filled with stores selling everything from action figures and posters to rare manga and DVDs. Maid cafés, themed after popular anime series, offer a special dining experience where waitresses dress as characters and interact with customers in character.
AnimeJapan
One of the biggest anime conventions globally, AnimeJapan takes place annually at Tokyo Big Sight. It showcases upcoming anime series, provides sneak peeks into new projects and hosts industry panels. Attendees can also purchase exclusive merchandise and participate in interactive exhibits.
Themed Cafes
Tokyo is home to numerous anime-themed cafes, such as the Pokémon Café and the Gundam Café. These cafés offer specially designed menus, décor and merchandise based on popular anime franchises. The immersive atmosphere and character interactions make for a memorable dining experience.
Nakano Broadway
Located in Tokyo, Nakano Broadway is a shopping complex renowned for its wide selection of anime and manga merchandise. Collectors can find vintage items, rare figures and prized memorabilia spread across multiple floors of shops.
Ikebukuro’s Otome Road
Known as a hub for female anime fans, Otome Road in Ikebukuro offers stores specialising in “boys’ love” manga, anime goods and cosplay outfits. The nearby Sunshine City mall also features a Pokémon Centre and other anime-related shops.
Comiket (Comic Market)
Held twice a year in Tokyo, Comiket is the largest fan convention in the world. This event attracts hundreds of thousands of attendees who come to buy and sell doujinshi (self-published works), cosplay and participate in various activities. The sheer scale and diversity of Comiket make it a must-visit for any anime fan.
