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Visit the Ghibli Museum
Studio Ghibli was co-founded by two talented directors, Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata. It consistently produces critically acclaimed and commercially successful animated films, making it a renowned name in Japanese animation. Ghibli also marks the historical development of Japan through the evolution of animation over time, exemplified by films such as Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind (1984), My Neighbor Totoro (1988), and Spirited Away (2001).
At the Ghibli Museum, visitors can not only watch original short films by directors Miyazaki and Takahata, but also admire vividly portrayed characters from the animated films. In addition, a fantastic gift shop featuring the main characters from famous films attracts many visitors for sightseeing and shopping.
"Pilgrimage" to the Mandarake complex
The Mandarake complex is a giant world for anime, manga, and game enthusiasts. From a small comic book store in the 1980s, it has transformed into a national shopping district. Currently, there are 25 stores within the complex selling items such as anime DVDs and manga. The center has since expanded with branches in Shibuya, Akihabara, and Ikebukuro – areas that attract a huge number of "fan girls."
Driving around the city dressed as a cartoon character.
It sounds "crazy" and illegal, but it's true! You can do this in Japan! The ride-hailing company MariCAR offers a variety of costumes of anime/comic characters that renters can wear and ride around the city as a fun form of entertainment. Although traffic in Tokyo isn't particularly heavy, these rides are limited, and participants need an international driving license.
Amazed by the giant Gundam robot.
In case you didn't know, Gundam is a famous Japanese toy brand originating from a manga series that first appeared in the 1990s. These robotic characters are actually weapons-equipped robots, controlled by real-life "heroes" sitting inside the robots or remotely.
In Odaiba, a gigantic, 1:1 scale model of an RX-0 Unicorn Gundam, nearly 20 meters tall, has been erected majestically in the middle of the shopping district. This model has two "modes"—"unicorn" and "destruction"—which transform twice a day. At night, the Gundam also lights up, creating a unique spectacle for Odaiba and attracting people to admire and take photos.
Admire the Godzilla monster in the middle of the city.
If you're a fan of giant monsters, then the Godzilla model is a must-see when you're in Tokyo. This half-ape, half-whale star is one of the most famous media franchise characters of all time in Japan. In Tokyo, there's even a giant Godzilla head on the roof of the Gracery Shinjuku Hotel, just like in the movies.
In addition, the Godzilla figure, along with hundreds of other monster models, can be found at Hibiya Godzilla Square or Nakano's Daikaijū Salon.
Enjoy some sweets at a Pokemon-themed cafe.
Japan is famously known for making all kinds of food and drinks cuter through cartoon characters. And the popular Pokémon Cafe, filled with adorable dishes, is no exception. To make the food more appealing and attractive, the cafe has revamped its menu by creating dishes such as: pasta shaped like Pikachu hiding in a fence, Snorlax hamburgers, and rice and a chicken burger shaped like Eevee. In addition, the cafe also sells cups and plates printed with these irresistibly cute yellow Pikachu images. One thing to note is that reservations are required at least 90 minutes in advance if you wish to visit.
Adjacent to the cafe is the Pokémon Center Tokyo DX, where you can find a wide variety of Pokémon-branded merchandise and more. The city's largest Pokémon store is also located in Ikebukuro and Solamachi – the shopping center connected to Tokyo Sky Tree.
Don't hesitate any longer! 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 renowned for its rich blend of traditional and contemporary cultures.
