Visit the Ghibli Museum
Studio Ghibli was co-founded by two talented directors, Miyazaki Hayao and Takahata Isao. It often produces highly rated and commercially successful Japanese animated films. Ghibli also marks the development of Japanese history through the changes of animation over time, typically Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind (1984), My Neighbor Totoro (1988) and Spirited Away (2001).
Coming to the Ghibli Museum, visitors can not only watch original short films by directors Miyazaki and Takahata, but also admire the vividly portrayed characters in the animated films. In addition, a wonderful gift shop with main characters in famous films also attracts many people to visit and shop.
"Pilgrimage" to the Mandarake complex
The Mandarake complex is a huge world for anime, manga and game enthusiasts. From a small comic book store in the 80s, it has now transformed into a national commercial area. There are now 25 stores in this center selling items from anime DVDs and manga series. The center later expanded to other branches in Shibuya and Akihabara, Ikebukuro - where the "fan girls" are extremely attracted.
Drive around the city dressed as a cartoon character
It may sound crazy and illegal, but you can do it in Japan! The car rental company MariCAR offers a variety of anime/manga character costumes for renters to wear and drive around the city as a form of entertainment. Although Tokyo traffic is not too heavy, the trips are limited, and of course, participants need an international driving license to participate in this activity.
Marvel at the giant Gundam robot
In case you don't know, Gundam is a famous toy brand in Japan originating from a comic series that first appeared in the 90s. These robot characters are actually armed robots, controlled by real human "heroes" sitting inside the robots or remotely.
In Odaiba, a giant 1:1 scale Gundam model, nearly 20 meters high, depicting a RX-0 Unicorn Gundam, has been erected in the middle of the commercial area. This model has 2 "modes" - "unicorn" and "destruction" - which will be transformed twice a day. At night, this Gundam will also light up, creating a very special appearance for the Odaiba area, attracting people to admire and take pictures.
Admire Godzilla Monster in the middle of the city
If you’re a fan of giant monsters, then a Godzilla model is a must-see when in Tokyo. The half-monkey, half-whale star is one of Japan’s most popular media franchises of all time. In Tokyo, there’s even a life-sized Godzilla head on the roof of the Gracery Shinjuku Hotel.
In addition, the Godzilla statue and hundreds of other monster models are also present at Hibiya Godzilla Square or Nakano's Daikaijū Salon.
Enjoy sweets at the Pokemon-themed cafe
Japan has a knack for making all kinds of food and drinks cuter through cartoon characters. And the famous Pokémon Cafe, which is full of adorable food, is no exception. To make the food more appealing and appealing, this cafe has refreshed their menu by creating dishes like: pasta that looks like Pikachu hiding in a hedge, Snorlax hamburgers, rice dishes and an Eevee-shaped chicken burger. Besides, this cafe also sells cups and plates printed with this irresistible yellow Pikachu. One thing to note is that you need to make a reservation at least 90 minutes in advance to visit this place.
Adjacent to the cafe is Pokémon Center Tokyo DX, where you can find a wide range of Pokémon-branded goods and more. The city's largest Pokémon store is also located in Ikebukuro and Solamachi, the shopping center attached to Tokyo Sky Tree.
What are you waiting for? Hurry up and pack your bags and head to the land of the rising sun this cherry blossom season to enjoy and explore the wonders of Tokyo, a city famous for its rich blend of traditional and contemporary cultures.
