Top 3 Anime Pilgrimage Area in Tokyo
※updated on July 23 2025
One of Japan’s greatest attractions is its anime culture. Anime enjoys immense popularity within the country—not only through television broadcasts and streaming services, but also via specialty stores selling merchandise and a wide variety of related events. Today, anime has become a defining element of Japanese pop culture, widely recognized both domestically and internationally. In Tokyo, many foreign tourists visit specifically to experience the heart of this anime culture. They explore anime-related facilities and collect character goods, fully immersing themselves in their favorite fictional worlds.
So, where do these anime fans go in Tokyo, and what kind of experiences do they seek out?
In this article, we introduce three recommended areas within Tokyo’s 23 wards that are perfect for anime enthusiasts.
1) Oizumi Area, Nerima city
From Ikebukuro Station, take the Seibu Railway for about 16 minutes to arrive at Ōizumi-gakuen Station. Just nearby, you’ll find the Toei Animation Museum, a popular destination among international tourists as well.
This museum is one of the symbolic spots representing Japanese anime culture. It’s located next to the Ōizumi Studio of Toei Animation, a company that has produced numerous beloved anime titles over the years. The facility offers a fun and educational experience, allowing visitors to explore the history of anime and the behind-the-scenes process of its creation.
Although compact in size, the museum features photo spots and displays of famous anime characters, letting you feel as though you’ve stepped into the world of anime.
The exhibits are divided into two main areas: a photo area, and a reference exhibit area where photography is not allowed. In the photo area, visitors can take pictures with many Pretty Cure (Precure) characters in a vibrant installation—making for a perfect souvenir photo from your trip to Japan. For anime fans, it might even become one of the most memorable photos of their life.
In the reference exhibit area, you can listen to opening theme songs from various Toei anime series and learn about the history and background of each title. It’s an experience that will deepen your love for anime.
Just beyond the entrance is a courtyard featuring a fountain of Pero, a beloved character from The Wonderful World of Puss 'n Boots, and one of Toei's iconic figures.
There’s also a chalkboard in the courtyard where visitors can freely draw their favorite anime characters or write famous lines from their favorite shows.
Admission to the museum is free. It’s about a 15-minute walk from Ōizumi-gakuen Station, or you can take a convenient local bus. This spot is recommended not only for anime-loving tourists but also for families.
2) Akihabara
Akihabara is globally recognized as a mecca for Japanese anime and manga culture. Around JR Akihabara Station, you'll find a wide variety of specialty stores selling anime merchandise, character cafés, figure shops, and doujinshi (self-published manga) stores, creating a dreamlike atmosphere for anime fans from Japan and around the world.
Right next to JR Akihabara Station is the iconic Akihabara Radio Kaikan, a landmark that has been beloved since its opening in 1950. This 10-story building (plus two basement floors) is home to numerous specialty stores selling anime, manga, figures, trading cards, and more—making it a must-visit spot for anyone coming to Akihabara.
Another highlight is Animate Akihabara, located in the Akihabara Electric Town area. The store is stocked with a wide selection of trending anime titles, popular figures, and merchandise. Just browsing the shelves is sure to excite any anime enthusiast.
In addition to these, Akihabara features many other anime-related shops and frequently hosts cosplay events and anime exhibitions. This makes it a rare destination where visitors can actively experience anime culture. For those who want to fully immerse themselves in the world of anime, Akihabara is truly a must-see location.
3) Kameari
Kameari is widely known as the setting of the popular anime and manga series Kochira Katsushika-ku Kameari Kōen-mae Hashutsujo (commonly known as KochiKame), making it a special destination for anime and manga fans. Serialized in Weekly Shonen Jump for over 40 years, the series has been loved by generations of readers, and its main character, Kankichi Ryotsu, remains an iconic figure in Japanese pop culture.
Around JR Kameari Station, you’ll find more than 15 bronze statues of Ryotsu and other characters from the series, immersing visitors in the world of KochiKame. The “Ryosan Statue” located at the south exit of JR Kameari Station is especially popular as a photo spot for fans.
The surrounding area, including the Yūroad Shopping Street, features decorative elements and signage themed around KochiKame, offering an immersive experience just by walking through the town. Kameari is a nostalgic and heartwarming destination where anime and local culture come together to create a welcoming atmosphere. It’s a charming place to stroll, whether you're a longtime fan or simply curious about Tokyo’s old-town feel.
There are many more anime- and manga-themed spots to explore throughout Tokyo. Each area has its own unique character, so be sure to enjoy your anime-inspired journey through the city to the fullest.
Popular Area
Potential Area
