For pop culture fans, the Godzilla head at Hotel Gracery Shinjuku is an absolute must see. Even though the terrace is currently closed, you can still get a great view of the iconic monster from the hotel lobby if you’re staying there or just peek from the street outside.

Omoide Yokocho,or “Memory Lane” is a street food lover’s dream and one of those spots that makes you feel like you’ve stumbled into old Tokyo. Similar to Golden Gai, the alleys are narrow and packed with tiny eateries which each spot serving up something irresistible. You can find anything from skewers of yakitori sizzling over open flames, fried snacks that smell like heaven and bowls of steaming noodles that hit the spot after a long day of sightseeing. The best way to experience it all is hopping from stall to stall whilst tasting a little of everything and breathing in the smoky, savoury air that fills the streets.

The Imperial Palace is such a peaceful escape in the middle of Tokyo. While the inner grounds are closed, the East Gardens are free and perfect for a walk. The Nijubashi Bridge is one of the most photographed spots which is located right in the front of the gate (note you can’t walk across this as it’s only open to the public on two specific days each year – January 2nd and the Emperor’s birthday, December 23rd).

Zōjō-ji Temple is one of those spots that feels like a little secret even though it’s right in the middle of Tokyo. One minute you’re surrounded by busy streets and skyscrapers and then you step through the gates and suddenly it’s quiet and calm. I went early in the morning and loved having the place almost to myself. Even if you’re not usually a temple person, Zōjō-ji is totally worth a visit. Plus the backdrop of Tokyo Tower makes it insanely photogenic and trust me your Instagram will thank you.

Watching a sumo wrestling tournament is a unique way to experience one of Japan’s oldest sports. You’ll witness powerful athletes perform rituals steeped in Shinto tradition before engaging in intense matches. Sumo wrestling takes place at the Ryogoku Kokugikan three times in Tokyo (January, May and September) so it’s always best to check the schedule when planning your trip. The tournament usually lasts about 10 hours however the highest ranked wrestlers usually compete later in the day. I went from 12pm (even though it starts at 8am) and spent half a day watching the matches.

Tokyo Tower is one of those classic city icons you can’t skip (I mean they even have an Apple emoji for it so it doesn’t get any more iconic than that). And a lot of people don’t know this but you can actually go inside as they have an observation deck. From up there, you get an incredible 360° view where you can see Shibuya, Roppongi and even Mount Fuji (if it’s a clear day). If you’re a fan of quirky souvenirs the tower shops have tons of Tokyo themed goodies, so make sure you bring a spare bag!

An authentic Thai restaurant, cafe, and dining bar situated right near the Omotesando intersection. It is certified by the Thai Ministry of Commerce and prides itself on serving genuine Thai cuisine using ingredients imported directly from Thailand, all prepared by skilled Thai chefs.c

A popular local Udon restaurant located in the Okubo/Higashi Shinjuku area of Tokyo. It is noted for serving Kansai-style Udon, contrasting with the more common Sanuki style found in the region. It also functions as a casual Izakaya in the evenings.

A curated resale fashion outlet located in the trendy Nakameguro district of Tokyo, specializing in hand-picked designer items.

Great cafe serving matcha, lattes and iced drinks using 100% organic matcha. Simple, quick, and affordable. Theres only a little table to sit at.

Disneyland park in Tokyo, with parades, popcorn carts, and headliners like Pooh’s Hunny Hunt and the Enchanted Tale of Beauty and the Beast. The park is beautifully maintained and the atmosphere is magical from the moment you walk in.

Store selling Pokemon items, located at a walking space to the Pokémon Cafe. They have a good selection of card packs

Large park with 7 themed ports. The areas are so well designed and interesting to look at

Theme park with rides, live shows and costumed characters. There’s also afternoon and evening parades, along with many restaurants

Cute Kirby themed cafe with beautifully plated food at fair prices. They are strict with reservations

A very busy Pokémon Center selling merchandise and unique times. They have a lot of special promotional material you'll only find here

A contemporary aquarium with a variety of fish and penguins. A nice place to stop by

Broadcasting tower with nice observation deck where you can have amazing views of Tokyo. There’s a cafe on the observation deck

An iconic double-arched bridge located at the main entrance of the Imperial Palace. It’s not a funcional bridge so you can’t cross over it

A ramen chain restaurant serving tasty noodles in big bowls. Located very close to Akihabara station

A 6 floors video arcade with claw crane machine, rhythm games, classic arcade cabinets, and the latest Japanese gaming technology

Cute cake shop located in the Marui Kita-Senju shopping mall (4F floor) with great food options and drinks

Great Korean restaurant for lunch at reasonable prices opened 24/7

Harry Potter themed cafe with tasty instagrammable food

Iconic communications tower and the key symbol of Japan's post-war recovery

2 floors chinaware store with beautiful pottery and original pieces

A bag shop with a great canvas bag selection at reasonable prices. Good service and high quality

Clothing store located in a mall with great prices and trendy basics. Checkout process is smooth

12 floors store of the brand Uniqlo with a wide selection of clothing for women, men, and children at affordable prices

Cool sunglasses store with cool modern interior and unusual designs

5 floors store with high quality gifts, crafts, beauty, housewares, kitchenware, stationery, matcha and more

Healthy bakery with high quality bread and baked goods

5 floor store with items for fans of all kinds of characters and franchises. Store is usually crowded

Electronic store with huge range of products like watches or cameras. Prices are fair, helpful and friendly staff

Clean public toilets with a modern design and regularly maintained. Designed by Ando Tadao

Iconic 8 floors mega store that is open 24/7. You can find everything you need from skincare, food, alcohol to clothes, toys and daily necessities

Iconic Pokémon Centre located on the 6th floor of Shibuya PARCO with many Pokémon items

Surrounded by forest, this venerable Shinto shrine features a seasonal iris garden

Iconic Nintendo Store located in Shibuya with a good selection of toys, clothes, games and unique items

A book store easy to navigate and filled with a good selection of subjects

A cute store with vibrant colorful products

A shopping mall located near the Shibuya station with many stores, recreation and dining options

3 floors store with a huge selection of clothing at good prices. Staff are not always friendly but the clothes make it worth the trip

Often described as Akihabara’s best-kept secret, this tiny Shinto shrine is a hidden gem tucked away in a narrow alley near not far from Akihabara Station, just off the main street behind the electronics shops. Dedicated to Uka-no-Mitama-no-Kami, a kami (deity) associated with food, agriculture, and prosperity, it was originally founded during the Edo period and was relocated and rebuilt after World War II. Despite its modest size, it retains a quiet dignity amid the neon chaos of Akihabara. As all inari shrines, it features a red torii (gate), stone fox guardians, and a compact courtyard, all nestled between buildings. It’s easy to miss unless you’re looking for it, which makes stumbling upon it feel like a secret discovery.

Looking for that elusive manga or retro game is akin to a treasure hunt. If you are superstitious and need some help from heaven, you may want to pay a visit to this beautiful shrine, one of the oldest in Tokyo, only a seven-minute walk from the station. Due to the shrine’s close proximity to the Electric Town, IT companies have come to revere the place and regularly seek out its protection by attending blessing ceremonies there. Individuals can get their share of good luck by buying their high-tech omamori (charm).

The dean of maid cafes opened in 2001 and it’s still going strong. Designed to resemble an old English mansion, with dark wooden furniture and lace curtains, it has a more relaxed and refined atmosphere and attracts more ladies than your typical local maid cafe. On Saturdays there are live classical music performances at dinner time. Their original organic tea is particularly recommended.

This small cute cafe provided the inspiration for the May Queen Nyan-nyan café in the Steins;Gate visual novel (i.e. interactive-fiction game), and is therefore a favorite destination for otaku pilgrims.. Even though it’s a typical maid café, it has a diverse clientele (office workers, students, etc.) and it features “cosplay time” and other events (usually on Wednesday). You can’t take pictures of the maids, but you can photograph the food on your table (ask the staff first). When the place is particularly crowded there’s a 90-minute time limit. Otherwise you can stay as long as you want but you have to place an order at least once every 90 minutes. They even sell maid-related good (e.g. cups, towels, etc.).

If you spent the whole day hunting for retro games, you’ll end up hungry, thirsty AND feeling like actually playing some of that stuff. So what better idea than paying a visit to this off-the-beaten-path bar? A favorite among both fans and game industry insiders, the place is full of games and consoles waiting for you. They even have an impressive collection of classic controllers. The place is quite small so if you plan to go with a big group of people you’d better call in advance. Ah, and of course you must be over 20.

One of the most iconic landmarks in Akihabara is a towering hub of otaku culture, electronics, and collectibles that embodies the spirit of the neighborhood. This 10-story building (plus 2 basement levels) houses over 30 specialty stores across its floors, catering to a wide range of interests: anime & manga goods, figures, posters, video games, DVDs, rare merchandise, model kits & dolls at Volks, trading cards & games at Card Labo, Hobby Station, and Yellow Submarine.

Many tourists and first comers like this hobby shop because it’s close to the station and has a nice souvenir corner on the 1st floor. Also worth checking are the rental showcases where people can sell their goods on consignment. Hobby Tengoku belongs to Volks, famous for producing garage kits, mecha kits and the world-famous Dollfie line of dolls, so it’s no surprise that the 2nd floor is chockfull of robots, figurines, and pla-mo while the 3rd floor is a veritable Dollfie dreamland.

Purists may scoff at the idea of shopping at this used bookstore chain (and in Akiba, of all places) as they seem to be rather clueless about the stuff they handle, but it’s always worth a look, especially if you are after video games, as they are often cheaper than other retailers. This particular branch is six-stories high and it’s on the “wrong” (east) side of the station but only a one-minute walk from the Central Exit (中央口). They even carry secondhand consoles and accessories as well as books and manga.

Another typical game arcade featuring crane games, purikura photo booths, rhythm games, and fighting titles, catering to both casual players and late-night wanderers. Known for its bright, accessible vibe and generous prize rotation, Leisure Land is a favorite for visitors looking to unwind after hours or dive into Akihabara’s playful side. With capsule toys, UFO catchers, and a steady stream of anime-themed campaigns, it’s a lively, all-hours stop for fans of Japan’s gaming culture.

A four-floor arcade institution dedicated to retro and competitive gaming. It features legendary shoot-’em-ups like DoDonPachi and Gradius on the second floor, classic 2D fighters on the third, and rhythm and card-based games on the fourth. Known for its meticulously maintained vintage cabinets and no-frills atmosphere, HEY draws serious players and nostalgic fans alike. It’s a living museum of Japan’s arcade legacy and a must-visit for anyone chasing pixel-perfect memories.

Multi-level arcade and entertainment hub offering one of the most immersive gaming experiences in the city. This six-floor venue features a dazzling array of claw machines, rhythm games, racing simulators, and retro arcade classics. The fifth floor is a haven for music game enthusiasts, with top-tier machines like beatmania IIDX, DanceDanceRevolution, and SOUND VOLTEX, while the sixth floor - branded as RETRO:G - celebrates vintage titles like OutRun, Typing of the Dead, and early beatmania mixes. It also hosts frequent anime-themed campaigns and exclusive merchandise drops, making it a dynamic stop for both casual visitors and hardcore gamers. With free Wi-Fi, electronic payment options, and a steady stream of limited-edition prizes.

This is arguably the most famous of the retro game shops in Akiba. When the area is featured on TV, chances are they are going to show this place. They literally have EVERYTHING including Neo Geo and PC Engine games and very rare (i.e. very expensive) goods. They also sell game-related items (strategy guides, T-shirts, Super Mario glasses, etc.). The downside is that their prices are 25-30% higher than the competition. This said, they have 2-3-day bargain sales typically during holidays (the Golden Week in early May; Obon in mid-August; and New Year). There’s even a small game center on the top floor complete with glass-top cabinets for that old ‘70s feeling.

Tech-focused retail hub in Akihabara, offering a wide selection of electronics, gaming gear, and PC components across multiple floors. It caters to both casual shoppers and hardcore builders, with dedicated sections for laptops, peripherals, gaming consoles, and secondhand goods. The store also features a floor for anime and character merchandise, blending otaku culture with digital hardware. This is a reliable stop for upgrading gear, browsing retro games, or diving into Akihabara’s tech-meets-anime ecosystem.

Since 2005 this small venue on top of the Don Quixote discount store has been the home base of AKB48, arguably the most popular Japanese idol group, besides hosting the other member groups of the AKB galaxy whenever they are on tour in Tokyo. The theater seats only 145 people and has a total capacity of 250, making each concert a rather intimate experience (even though two big pillars near the stage partially block your view if you happen to get the wrong seat). The bad news – especially if you are in Tokyo on a trip – is that tickets are assigned by random lottery after you have applied through their website. Considering the group’s popularity, you have between a 1:50 and a 1:200 chance to get one. Good luck!

This is the first place you should check out if you are into retro toys. This tiny cramped shop bursts at the seams with all the classic products Japan is famous for: Godzilla, Ultraman, kaiju, Kamen Rider, Mazinger Z and other sofubi and chogokin; minicars; Candy Candy and other girls’ toys; tin toys; and then magazines for kids, bromides (old idol photo portraits)… It literally has things you won’t find anywhere else in Akiba. Enough said.

The Heroine Special Effects Research Center is the door to a different, slightly darker side of Akihabara. Ever heard of such masterpieces as Zen Pictures’s Enormous Breasts Squadron Fiber Star or Hyper Sexy Heroine Cyber Soldier Etoile? If you are interested in Power Rangers parody, Sailor Moon-like and masked-girl fighters, Studio 2.5’s wacky Akiba-kei action porno flicks and other low budget V-Cinema (straight-to-video) stuff, this store could change your life. They even sell the original costumes used during the shoots.

Now that Comic Toranohana has moved elsewhere and K-Books, despite its name, doesn’t carry books anymore, COMIC ZIN is a must-visit for manga connoisseurs and doujinshi hunters. This three-story specialty shop offers a curated selection of mainstream manga alongside a treasure trove of self-published works, technical books, and niche titles you won’t find elsewhere. Known for its quiet, library-like atmosphere and knowledgeable staff, COMIC ZIN also provides exclusive bonuses - like limited-edition postcards - with select releases. The steep, narrow stairs add to its hidden-gem charm, making each floor feel like a deeper dive into Tokyo’s indie publishing scene. Whether you're seeking rare cycling-themed manga or experimental doujinshi, COMIC ZIN is where Akihabara’s subcultural pulse beats strongest.

The popular figure and model maker’s only retail shop in Japan can be found on the fifth floor of the famed Radio Kaikan building. Kaiyodo is synonymous with beautifully crafted, highly detailed figures. Their works are so realistic that their dinosaur models, for instance, were reportedly used as material for the CG design of the monsters in Jurassic Park. Then there is the Revoltech series of figures featuring the company’s unique "Revolver Joint" articulation system. Last but not least, the garage kits displayed every year at the Wonder Showcase (see Wonder Festival) can be also bought here.

Since opening its first store in Ikebukuro in 1983, Animate has become Japan’s largest retailer of anime, manga and video games, with branches everywhere. The Akiba shop is a little smaller than the main store in Ikebukuro, but still features seven floors of everything including some goods that can be found only here. The event space on the 7th floor hosts authors and voice actors for autographs and handshaking. This is by no means the cheapest place in Ikebukuro but the range of goods on offer is hard to beat.

Tokyo Skytree is the world’s tallest freestanding broadcasting tower. The design is impressive, and prices to go inside are pretty reasonable. Inside you will find lots of shops, including a gift shop with plenty of souvenirs to pick from.

Street with unique shops, small activities, and food and drink spots. A little crowded but so worth it. Not many restaurants, but there are stalls like crepes, potatoes, and cheese sticks. Most places take cash and cards, still better bring some cash just in case.

Colorful shopping hub with street stalls and big department stores like Yodobashi Multimedia Akiba. Whole neighborhood for anime, gaming, figurines, retro consoles, and gadgets. There are restaurants, maid cafes, and spots with fresh baked sweets worth a quick stop.

Also known as Asakusa Shrine, this is Tokyo’s oldest and most famous Buddhist temple, honoring Kannon, the goddess of mercy. The complex has a main hall, a five story pagoda, and big gates at the entries.

Godzilla Head in Kabukicho is an attraction worth a quick visit in Shinjuku. The street lights are super unique, and there are lots of restaurants and shops around.

Zojo ji is the main temple of Jodo shu Buddhism, set right in front of Tokyo Tower. The grounds feel serene and a bit majestic, with shrines, memorials, and a tree planted by former US president Ulysses S. Grant in 1879.

Tokyo Tower, similar to the Eiffel Tower, shows how tradition and modern life sit together in Japan’s capital. It is painted bright orange and white to meet aviation rules, and the evening lights are really impressive.

Great spot to enjoy the beauty of Rainbow Bridge, Odaiba Beach, and the Tokyo skyline. There is a Statue of Liberty replica here, first set up in 1998 as a temporary exhibit to celebrate Japan and France friendship.

This sculpture commemorates the French Year in Japan. It looks like a thin golden flame rising from the ground, a reference to the victories of Napoleon III. Made from aluminum and bronze, then covered in gold leaf.

The Ramen Museum is a fun, unique stop for any ramen lover. Retro style setting that makes it seem you step back in time. Packed with the history and culture behind this dish.

Cute little cafe where you can pet and watch different owl species. You can pick small or big ones, and read about their character traits while you hang out. Super cute, honestly.

Delicious ramen here, and the staff is super friendly. The shoyu broth is tasty but not too salty, and the chicken based soup is dense, rich, and really good.

Shopping mall with a large supermarket, a food court with Burger King, Daiso 100 yen store, pet shop, electronics stores, and several fashion shops. There is also an entertainment zone on the top floor.

Massive GU store with five floors of fashionable picks at budget prices. Sister brand of Uniqlo, simple minimalist style. Staff are super kind and helpful.

Big discount store selling groceries, toys, footwear, and more. On the second floor you’ll find groceries and plenty of prepared foods. It’s one of the largest MEGA Don Quijote, and you can spot more down to earth items instead of just souvenirs and cute stuff.

Unique shopping mall right outside Tokyo Disneyland. Lots of shops, food places, and other things going on.

Large 8-floor mall with popular brand shops, goods, restaurants, an entertainment center, and events. The highlight is the life size Unicorn Gundam outside. There is a Mugiwara store too if you love One Piece.

View the famous busy crossing in Shibuya for free from the bridge above it.

Huge and iconic Japanese discount store that is open 24hrs, these stores can be found all over Japan but this is the largest and before you know it you'll have the theme tune stuck in your head!

Tourist shopping street with lots of unique cafes. The arch to this shopping street also displays live video footage so you can smile and wave at yourself as you enter.

Vibrant and bustling street with a giant Godzilla head visible from the top of a building. Great photo spot here as you look back down central street.

Small, narrow streets of tiny bars seating only a handful of people, have a drink with some yakitori and interact with the locals! Many of these bars do have a cover charge and they're not the cheapest but a must do experience while in Tokyo.

Beautiful park and Japanese gardens that you can enter for a small fee (500 yen per person).

Incredible 360 degree views over Tokyo from the observation deck at the top of the tower.

The whole Akihabara area is filled with gachapon and anime.

Huge Snorlax in entrance, this Pokemon centre is good for shopping as less busy than the one in Shibuya. Free to get in and can buy packs of Pokémon cards for £1.50 each.

Modern Art Exhibition with two main themes - water and garden. As this is an immersive experience, you will walk through water at one point that can reach up to your knees. Note: There is no chance to have food or drinks once you enter.