Akihabara for Tech Lovers: What to Find and How to Shop

Akihabara is Tokyo's best-known electronics and pop-culture district. Today it's as much about anime, games and figures as about cables and circuit boards, but for anyone who loves tech it's still one of the most fun neighbourhoods on earth. Here's what to look for, where to go and how to shop smart.

Getting there and getting around

Akihabara Station is on the JR Yamanote Line, the JR Keihin-Tohoku Line, the JR Sobu Line and the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line, so it's easy to reach from most of central Tokyo. The main street, Chuo-dori, runs north–south from the station. Many shops open late in the morning, around 10:00–11:00, so there's no point arriving at dawn.

On many weekend afternoons part of Chuo-dori is closed to traffic and becomes a pedestrian street, which makes it the easiest time to explore on foot.

What you can find

• Big electronics stores. Multi-floor chains with everything from cameras and headphones to rice cookers and massage chairs. Good for browsing the latest gear in one place.
• PC parts and components. Smaller shops on the side streets west of Chuo-dori specialise in graphics cards, cases, keyboards and cables.
• Used and retro electronics. Second-hand cameras, lenses, phones, audio gear and classic consoles. Condition grades are usually labelled carefully.
• The electronic parts arcades. Narrow lanes of tiny stalls selling resistors, LEDs, connectors and tools, much loved by makers and hobbyists.
• Games and retro gaming. Specialist shops sell cartridges, consoles and accessories going back decades.
• Figures, models and anime goods. Whole buildings full of collectibles, from new releases to rare second-hand pieces.

Smart shopping tips

1. Check the region and voltage. Japan uses 100 V, and plugs are type A (two flat pins). Many chargers and laptops are fine with any voltage from 100–240 V, but some kitchen and grooming appliances are made only for Japan. Check the label.
2. Check the language and region settings. Cameras and phones sold for the Japanese market may have limited language menus or region-specific features, such as a camera shutter sound that can't be turned off. Ask before you buy.
3. Compare prices. Prices for the same item can vary between shops. Big stores often price-match if you ask politely.
4. Ask about warranties. Many Japanese warranties are only valid in Japan. International warranties are sometimes available on request.
5. Tax-free shopping. Visitors can buy many goods without consumption tax at registered shops. Japan has been changing how tax-free shopping works for visitors, including a move towards refunding the tax at departure, so check the current process and bring your passport.
6. Carry a little cash. Most big shops take cards and IC cards, but some small stalls and second-hand shops still prefer cash.

Beyond shopping

Akihabara is also known for themed cafés, arcades with multi-floor game centres, and photo-sticker booths. Arcades are a great way to see Japanese game culture up close: rhythm games, crane games and fighting-game cabinets are often packed in the evening.

A simple half-day plan

Start at a big electronics store to see the latest gear, then wander the side streets for PC parts and the parts arcades. After lunch, head north along Chuo-dori for retro games and collectibles, and finish at an arcade as the neon lights come on.

Go with a budget. Akihabara is very good at making "just looking" turn into "just one more thing".