Akihabara

Akihabara (あきはばら/秋葉原) is the geek capital of Japan. Actually, it seems like the geek capital of the world.  Anything a geek or nerd (or Otaku as they say here) needs is available here.  For other people, Akihabara is a fascinatingly crazy place with lots of surprises.

Budget travel tips

• Follow our recommended route on the map, and you will find all the arcades, maid cafes, manga and anime stores, electronic stores and used good stores that you need.  Take your time and enjoy the madness!
• The electronic shops may be cheaper or have later versions of electronic/manga/anime items that you want.  Many of the shops have English speaking staff and goods that can be used abroad.

Things to do

Electric City streets

Follow our recommended route on the map for a tour of all the craziness of Akihabara.

Yodobashi Camera

A huge electronics shop, probably the biggest you will ever see. Great for a bit of window shopping.

Belle Salle event space (FREE)

Make sure you check out this event space when you are in Akihabara, as there are often free events for the general public.

Super Potato

A treasure trove of retro gaming. Try out a Virtual Boy, play old school games in the arcade and check out the retro consoles and games.

Don Quijote

This mega discount store is one of the biggest in Tokyo. Cosmetics, maid cafes, used goods, chopsticks…..anything you want.

How to get there

From Shinjuku station, take the Sobu Line (yellow JR line)  to Akihabara station (18 mins, 160 yen).

From Tokyo station, take the Yamanote line (green JR line)  to Akihabara station (4 mins, 130 yen).

Map

Recommended Hostels and Cheap Hotels

Capsulevalue Kanda (men only)

You will soon realize why they have a 91% rating. Really helpful staff, cheap bike rental and inexpensive rooms. Check prices at Booking.com

First Cabin Akihabara

A classy capsule hotel with something that nearly resembles a room! Check prices at Booking.com

More at Booking.com.