Experience Tokyo’s Pop Culture

Whether you grew up on Godzilla, Super Mario, Hello Kitty, Pokémon, or Sailor Moon, you know that Japan’s pop culture has spread far and wide. In Tokyo, you can see it all come to life.

If you’re already a fan, read on to find your favorite pop-culture icons; if you’re unfamiliar, continue to learn about the city’s sometimes-baffling, always-fascinating attractions. There’s plenty to appeal to kids and some awesome photo opportunities in store.

Visit the Ghibli Museum

Studio Ghibli, co-founded by directors Miyazaki Hayao and Takahata Isao, has produced some of Japan’s most critically acclaimed animated films. It has also nurtured a generation of Japanophiles who fell in love with films like Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind (1984), My Neighbor Totoro (1988), and Spirited Away (2001).

The Ghibli Museum captures the wonder that makes the films so enchanting, featuring beloved characters worked into the design. Additionally, a small cinema screens original shorts directed by Miyazaki, Takahata, and their protégés. Check the website for regular updates on the available screenings.

Naturally, the museum includes an excellent gift shop.

Make a Pilgrimage to the Original Mandarake Complex

Mandarake Complex is a crucial hub in the anime, manga, and gaming universe. What began as a small used comic-book store in the 1980s has now transformed into a national franchise. However, nothing compares to the original shop located in Nakano.

The original Mandarake is nestled inside a vintage 1960s shopping center known as Nakano Broadway. As it expanded, instead of relocating, it simply occupied more stores within the mall. Presently, the complex comprises around 25 shops, each specializing in unique items such as production cels from animated films, vintage toys, or rare manga. The blend of mid-20th century mall architecture and Mandarake’s mechanical aesthetic creates a post-apocalyptic vibe.

Additional branches exist in Akihabara, Ikebukuro (popular with fan girls), and Shibuya.

Ride Around the City on a Go-Kart

It may sound crazy (and illegal; but it’s not), yet this is a genuine activity you can experience. Moreover, operators like MariCAR offer costumes, allowing you to drive around dressed as your favorite character, whether it’s Pikachu or Princess Peach. The experience is thrilling, albeit a bit intimidating. While Tokyo traffic isn’t as chaotic as other Asian mega-cities, it still requires a brave heart. An international driver’s license is necessary for this adventure.

If real-life go-karting feels too intense, you might opt for the virtual experience instead. VR Zone Shinjuku features a simulator of Nintendo’s timeless Super Mario Kart racing game. Here, throwing virtual banana peels at fellow racers is entirely acceptable. Additionally, this temporary facility includes other attractions available through mid-July 2019.

Stand in Awe Before Gundam…

In case you don’t know, Gundam is a well-known Japanese media franchise that originated from an anime series in the 1990s. The titular Gundam is a ‘mobile suit’, a giant robot weapon operated by the typically dashing young protagonists.

Odaiba in Tokyo is home to a 1:1 scale replica of an RX-0 Unicorn Gundam, which stands nearly 20m tall and comes from one of the franchise’s later series. The Unicorn features two modes, ‘unicorn’ and ‘destroy’, with the Odaiba model transforming – including moving parts and light displays – between these modes several times daily. In the evening, it produces spectacular light shows perfect for photography.

…or Godzilla

If you’re a fan of classic kaijū (giant monster) media, you can pay homage to Godzilla, the iconic star of Japan’s most famous media franchise. A massive, ‘life-sized’ Godzilla Head statue looms over the terrace at the Hotel Gracery Shinjuku, creating a dramatic sight.

Additionally, a new model of the creature from the 2016 film Shin Godzilla has been placed in the aptly named Hibiya Godzilla Square.

For an immersive kaijū experience, visit Nakano’s Daikaijū Salon, decorated with countless monster models. It’s just a short walk from Mandarake Complex.

Eat at the Pokémon Theme Cafe

Japan possesses a unique talent for presenting food in adorable ways, showcased at the new Pokémon Cafe. The menu includes a pasta dish resembling Pikachu in a hedge, a Snorlax hamburger and rice dish, and an Eevee-shaped chicken burger. Additionally, branded plates and mugs are available for purchase. Reservations are required for the 90-minute seating, during which a special yellow guest makes an appearance.

Right next to the café is the Pokémon Centre Tokyo DX, offering an even wider selection of Pokémon-branded merchandise.

The largest Pokémon store in the city is located in Ikebukuro; you can also find an official store at Solamachi, which is attached to Tokyo Sky Tree.

Shop for All Your Favorite Characters

Beyond the shops mentioned above, a diverse range of character goods can be found at Harajuku’s expansive toy store KiddyLand, featuring numerous Sanrio characters, including Hello Kitty. Additionally, explore Tokyo Character Street, located inside Tokyo Station.