Calling all anime lovers, manga fans, and pop culture geeks – Japan is your playground.
From the glowing signs of Akihabara to real-life anime locations and Pokémon megastores, Japan is filled with must-see destinations for every otaku traveler.
In this guide, we’re diving into the top places you can’t miss if you love anime, games, and Japanese pop culture.
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Whether you’re a die-hard fan of Studio Ghibli or looking to score exclusive merchandise, this anime pilgrimage will take you through Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and beyond.
1. Akihabara – The Mecca of Otaku Culture (Tokyo)
You can’t talk otaku travel without starting in Akihabara, Tokyo’s iconic district pulsing with energy, LED lights, and more anime merchandise than your luggage can handle.
What to Explore:
- Animate, Mandarake, and Super Potato for rare figures, games, and manga.
- Gachapon Kaikan – Gacha heaven with hundreds of capsule machines.
- Maid Cafés – Cringe or cute? You decide, but it’s part of the experience.
Tip:
Visit on Sundays when the main street (Chuo-dori) becomes pedestrian-only – perfect for cosplay sightings and photos.
2. Studio Ghibli Museum – A Whimsical World (Mitaka, Tokyo)
Step into the magical world of My Neighbor Totoro, Spirited Away, and Howl’s Moving Castle at the Studio Ghibli Museum in Mitaka.
What’s Inside:
- Exclusive short films only shown here.
- Original sketches and animation cells.
- A life-sized Catbus (for kids only, sorry adults).
Ticket Info:
Tickets must be purchased in advance (no walk-ins) via Lawson or authorized international agents.
Bonus:
Pair your trip with a peaceful walk through Inokashira Park right outside the museum.
3. Pokémon Centers – Gotta Shop ’Em All
Whether you grew up with Pikachu or just jumped into the craze via Pokémon GO, Pokémon Centers are merchandise wonderlands for fans of all ages.
Top Pokémon Centers to Visit:
- Pokémon Center Mega Tokyo (Ikebukuro) – The biggest and most impressive.
- Pokémon Center Shibuya – Features a slick, futuristic interior.
- Pokémon Center Osaka DX – Often less crowded with great exclusive goods.
What You’ll Find:
- Plushies, TCG cards, exclusive Japan-only items.
- In-store events, arcade games, and even themed cafés.
4. Real-Life Anime Locations – Walk Through the Scenes
Many anime take place in real-world settings you can actually visit. It adds a surreal, emotional layer to your trip – especially if you’re a fan of slice-of-life or romantic dramas.
Popular Pilgrimage Spots:
- Shibuya Crossing (Tokyo) – Seen in countless anime, including Tokyo Ghoul.
- Lake Kawaguchi (Yamanashi) – The backdrop for Yuru Camp.
- Kanda Shrine (Tokyo) – Frequented by characters in Love Live! and Steins;Gate.
- Inokashira Park – Featured in The Garden of Words.
Tip:
Search for the Japanese term “seichi junrei (聖地巡礼)” which literally means “holy land pilgrimage” to find more fan-favorite locations.
5. Kyoto International Manga Museum – A Temple for Manga Lovers
Located in a renovated elementary school, this museum in Kyoto is dedicated entirely to manga culture.
Highlights:
- Over 300,000 manga titles including international works.
- A “Manga Wall” you can sit beside and read for hours.
- Regular exhibits and drawing workshops.
Pro Tip:
You can also get your manga portrait drawn by pro artists on site.
6. Odaiba – A Futuristic Island of Fandom (Tokyo)
Odaiba isn’t just a cool bay-side hangout spot – it’s also home to massive fandom experiences.
Otaku Attractions:
- Gundam Base Tokyo & Giant Unicorn Gundam – A life-sized, transforming Gundam statue outside DiverCity.
- TeamLab Borderless (if reopened) – A trippy, interactive art experience popular with anime fans.
- Tokyo Joypolis – A SEGA arcade-meets-theme-park with VR games and anime tie-ins.
7. Ikebukuro – Otome Road and Beyond (Tokyo)
While Akihabara is often seen as male-dominated, Ikebukuro’s Otome Road caters more to female otaku, especially fans of BL (Boys’ Love), cosplay, and idol culture.
Must-Visit:
- Animate Ikebukuro HQ – Eight floors of fandom heaven.
- Butler Cafés – Think maid café, but classy British-style butlers serve you instead.
- Sunshine City – Events, Pokémon Center, and JUMP Shop all in one complex.
8. Osaka’s Nipponbashi (Den Den Town)
Nicknamed the “Akihabara of the West”, Osaka’s Nipponbashi (a.k.a. Den Den Town) is a goldmine of anime goods, retro games, and electronics.
Key Spots:
- Joshin Super Kids Land – Huge selection of model kits and figurines.
- Gee! Store and Animate – Classic anime shops for cosplay and merch.
Tip:
Explore the nearby Shinsekai area for vintage vibes and cheap eats after shopping.
9. Kyoto’s Fushimi Inari & Anime Vibes
While Kyoto is better known for shrines and gardens, Fushimi Inari Taisha has become a pop culture icon thanks to its appearance in anime like Inari, Konkon, Koi Iroha and multiple video games.
Why It Feels So Familiar:
- The thousand red torii gates are instantly recognizable.
- Many series feature scenes set here due to its spiritual and mystical vibe.
10. Universal Studios Japan – Anime Meets Theme Park (Osaka)
USJ frequently collaborates with anime and gaming franchises, making it a must-visit for fans of action-packed adventures.
Attractions May Include (Seasonal Rotations):
- Attack on Titan 4D experience.
- Demon Slayer VR ride.
- Super Nintendo World – A permanent land with Mario Kart and Yoshi rides.
Tip:
Check the event calendar before your trip – these limited-time collabs are wildly popular and often change every season.
Whether you’re into classic anime, idol fandoms, or next-gen gaming, Japan has something magical for every otaku.
The best part? You don’t need to stick to one city – Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and beyond all offer unique pieces of the pop culture puzzle.
So dust off your passport, grab your camera, and get ready to go on the anime pilgrimage of your dreams. Just don’t forget to leave room in your suitcase – for all the exclusive merch you’re about to bring home!
