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15 Best Things to Do in Akihabara

From Anime Stores to Maid Cafe, Best Things to Do in Akihabara Tokyo

Akihabara is known as the world leading electric town and home to Otaku culture. It’s the best place to witness the underground culture of Japan and shop high-tech gadgets. From electronics shops to maid cafés, check out best things to do in Akihabara area , Tokyo!

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1. Yodobashi Camera

One of the best electronics stores in Japan to buy the latest electronics products, the 9 storied department store “ Yodobashi Camera ” is where the widest variety of electronic gadgets can be found. If you are into the latest high-tech products, you can easily spend 2–3 hours there. Besides electronics products, there are a wide range of products in various categories available such as video games, toys, luxurious brand products and cosmetics products. Yodobashi Camera is located in front of Akihabara Station.

2. Maid Cafe

Maid Cafe is the most bizarre culture originated in Akihabara , Tokyo. Maid Cafe is where maids serve guests in cute frilly costumes and call you “Master”(goshujin-sama). Numbers of Maid Cafes are located n Akihabara area, and it’s one of the top attractions in Tokyo for the past years.

▶ Click HERE to book Maidreamin Akihabara now!!

3. Akiba Fukurou

The unique animal cafe, owl cafe “ Akiba Fukurou ” has been chosen as one of the top tourist attractions in Japan by Tripadvisor for a couple of years now. Be welcomed by adorable owls and play with them!

▶ Make a reservation for Owl Cafe Akiba Fukuro!

4. Mandarake

Mandarake is one of the most significant stores in Akihabara , which is often called “the largest manga and anime store in the world”. Mandarake deals with secondhand items related to manga, anime, game, dolls, etc including loads of rare items which you can probably find only in Mandarake.

Disguise yourself as your favourite anime/game character and drive through the otaku district just like the famous computer game! This dreamy activity is one of top things to do in Tokyo today!

▶ Book Street Go Kart Experience in Akihabara, Tokyo!

6. Radio Center

If you wish to see what Otaku really means, visit Radio Center . It’s where the story of Akihabara culture began, selling millions of electronic components in narrow alleys. Radio Center is located at the Akihabara Electric Town right off the train station.

7. Kanda Myojin Shrine

Kanda Myojin Shrine is one of the most important shrines in Japan and popular from anime lovers as the shrine often associates with anime culture.

8. Kanda Matsuri

One of the most famous Japanese festivals is held in Akihabara: Kanda Matsuri (Kanda Festival). The shinto festival dating back to the Edo period is known as one of the three great Edo festivals along with Sanja Matsuri in Asakusa and Sanno Matsuri in Chiyoda; also as one of the great festivals of Japan along with Gion Matsuri in Kyoto and Tenjin Matsuri in Osaka. Kanda Matsuri is held in the middle of May in odd-numbered years by Kanda Myojin Shrine, which features the main parade with hundreds of people carrying 100 Mikoshi floats.

9. Anime and Gaming Adventure Tour

One of the best way to explore Akihabara’s deep Otaku culture in one day is joining a guided local tour! Anime and Gaming Adventure Tour in Akihabara  by Magical Trip is a popular half-day tour introducing some classic and hidden Otaku spots by a local guide! The tour also takes you to one of the famous Maid Cafes in Akihabara!

If you want to get a sense of the bustling city of Akihabara and learn about recommended spots in a short amount of time and at a reasonable price, it is recommended to join Akihabara Anime Tour offered by Japan Wonder Travel .

10. Animate Akihabara

Animate is Japan’s biggest anime shop chain that has outlets across the country. In 2023, one of the largest Animate shop opened in Akihabara. The brand-new anime complex building comprises 8 floors in total and sells a wide variety of anime-related products such as character goods, comics, game, DVD, Blu-ray and CD. There is an event space on the top floor where various events are held.

11. 2k540 Aki-Oka Artisan

2k540 Aki-Oka Artisan is a modern shopping complex opened in 2010, located underneath the elevated railway tracks between Akihabara Station and Okachimachi Station. It has the theme of making things that is inspired by the Edo culture of traditional crafts. There are around 50 shops that offer products produced by artisans in small quantities, which are categorized as accessories, interior, leather, clothing and so on.

12. Tokyo Daijingu Shrine

Tokyo Dijingu Shrine is especially popular as wedding place and known as having special power for love knots.

13. Janpara

Great place to shop high-tech gadgets such as Apple products and PC with bargain price. Janpara deals used yet cutting edge products.

14. Eat Ramen

Akihabara is known as one of the most competitive districts of Ramen restaurants. There are numbers of Ramen restaurants which take their pride to serve the best Ramen dishes. If you are a Ramen lover, Akihabara is the best area to eat out 🙂

▶ Best Ramen Restaurants in Akihabara, Tokyo

15. Manseibashi Bridge

Manseibashi is located off the main shopping arcade of Akihabara. It’s a shopping mall renovated from the abandoned train station.

Access to Akihabara

Akihabara Station is served by the JR Yamanote Line, JR Keihin-Tohoku Line, JR Sobu Line, the Tsukuba Express and the Hibiya Subway Line. (Only two stops from Tokyo Station)

If you are wondering what to do in Tokyo, check this article below! ▶︎Things to Do in Tokyo

Are you also looking for the things to do in the areas near Akihabara? ▶︎Best Things to Do in Ueno ▶︎Best Things to Do in Ginza

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▶︎ Akihabara Food Guide: What to Eat in Akihabara ▶︎ Akihabara Shopping Guide: 10 Best Shops in Akihabara ▶︎ 1 Day Itinerary in Tokyo: AKIHABARA

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"The world is my oyster" A globetrotter 🌎 and hammock lover 🌞 who loves taking adventures to fuel wanderlust. Born and raised in Japan, I have spend almost a decade living and exploring countries across the world. Based on my travel experience, I'd love to share my knowledge and tips for travelling with my readers. I hope my stories help you plan your trip and have a great time in Japan 🌈

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15 best things to do in Akihabara: shops, restaurants, arcades and more

Discover the charms of Tokyo's electronic town Akihabara, from electronics stores and geek culture to bars and arcades

Photo: Sean Pavone/Dreamstime

Akihabara is widely known as Tokyo's 'electric town'; it's also the hub of the city's otaku  (geek) culture. Many visit this vibrant, energetic neighbourhood to shop at one of its highly specialised, multi-level shopping complexes, whether it's for high-tech electronics and gaming gadgets, or manga and anime merchandise. There are huge arcade centres where you could lose the whole day just playing games and winning prizes from the claw machines.  

However, there's much more to Akihabara than electronics stores and pop culture. You'll find beautiful shrines, excellent restaurants and stylish bars that make this neighbourhood worth exploring deeper. Here are the places we recommend for a perfect day out in Akihabara.

RECOMMENDED: 101 best things to do in Tokyo

Namco Akihabara

• Attractions
• Arcades and amusements

Namco Akihabara has six floors of entertainment for gamers and anime lovers.  The first two floors are packed with crane games, where you can get figurines and character toys, some of which are exclusive to Namco.

The third floor, meanwhile, has rhythm arcade games, including eight Taiko no Tatsujin drum machines. Go up to the fourth floor and you’ll be mesmerised by the 800 or so gachapon (capsule toy machines), where you can win fun little trinkets. You can also visit Decks Stadium on the fifth floor to buy Bandai's collectible trading cards and participate in card game battles. 

Don’t forget to check out the basement level as well. Bandai Namco owns the rights to Gundam, so the entire basement is dedicated to Gundam video games. There are 44 Mobile Suit Gundam Extreme Vs 2 XBoost games, plus special events held regularly.

Tokyo Video Gamers

Gamers looking for a place to drink in the neighbourhood should check out this  bar and restaurant under the train tracks near Akihabara Station. This gaming haven has a full bar and  café menu alongside free-to-play arcade games.

Tokyo Video Gamers is even approved by big name gaming companies like Sega, Bandai and SNK, which have collaborated with the bar to offer special craft beer ( ¥1,980)  inspired by  'Ghost in the Shell Gear: Stand Alone Complex', 'Kunio-kun', and more . 

Getting in on all the action is simple: just order anything from the menu and you'll be given access to all the video games in the bar. Expect some of your retro favourites such as  Space Invaders, Metal Slug, Rampage and King of Fighters '98.  If you're looking for someone to play alongside, don't be shy – just ask one of the staff members to face off against you for a quick round or two.

Snacks start at ¥500 while drinks in the evening are mostly priced between ¥700 and ¥1,000. These include highballs, beer, sake and classic cocktails. 

Kanda Shrine

• Things to do

This elegant Shinto shrine was first established nearly 1,300 years ago, and was frequented by shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu in the early 17th century. It's also the home of the Kanda Matsuri, one of Tokyo's biggest traditional festivals. Fittingly, considering its proximity to Akihabara, this shrine sells good luck charms to protect electronics.

Katsusando Vending Machine

Vending machines aren’t limited to just drinks and light snacks. This one in Akihabara has deep-fried cutlet sandwiches from Niku no Mansei , a popular steakhouse and meat restaurant located right across the street (1 Kanda Sudacho, Chiyoda). Don’t worry – the sandwiches are replaced daily, meaning you’ll be getting fresh sandwiches made that morning.

There are five different sandwiches in the vending machine. The signature mankatsu sando (¥800) has a deep-fried pork loin cutlet with the restaurant’s specialty sauce between two slices of white bread. There’s also the nimankatsu sando (¥1,150), which has double the amount of meat inside, plus the 'volume' fillet katsu sando (¥1,000), which uses meat that’s thicker than in the standard sando.

Those who want a less fatty cut should go for the fillet katsu sando (¥750), while the hamburg sando (¥800) has a deep-fried black beef patty instead of pork.

Matsuya Seinikuten

One of the best times to visit this restaurant, which specialises in 100 percent Japanese beer burger patties, is during lunch, when you can get a teishoku set meal with a bowl of rice, miso soup, pickles and your choice of onion, steak or ponzu sauce.

The standard set meal comes with a 200g hamburg (¥1,580), but you can also upgrade to a 300g patty (¥2,100) or downgrade to a 100g patty (¥1,000). It’s possible to add sides to your set meal (starting from ¥100), including wasabi sauce, fried garlic and cheddar cheese.

Akihabara Gachapon Kan

This popular place for gachapon has been operating in Akihabara for more than ten years. The store has approximately 500 capsule toy machines, mostly stocked with unique toys for grown-ups. The offerings are constantly refreshed with 50 new collections replacing older stock every month.

The store’s popular machines dispense items from the Tamagotchi ring (¥300) and miniature Casio watch ring series (¥400), which are both wearable and adorably tiny. The store owner speaks English, so feel free to ask questions if you’re ever at a loss.

Mandarake Complex

Mandarake is a must-visit if you’re into Japanese anime, collectible toys, games and the like. Each floor in this eight-storey building is categorised by the type of products, so it’s easy to navigate and find what you’re looking for. 

There are plenty of collectible toys from popular Japanese anime and American comics, as well as an impressive lineup of Pokemon and Yu-Gi-Oh cards. Don’t miss the collection of retro games, which include Nintendo’s very first console, the Family Computer (also known as Famicon in Japan). You can also find the Megadrive, Gameboy and other Nintendo classics.

Low-Non Bar

• Late-night bars

Low-Non Bar is decked out with all the trimmings of a classic Tokyo cocktail bar: moody lighting, wooden countertops, soft jazz, shelves lined with glittering glassware and attractive bottles of liquor, and a skillful bartender. The only difference is that the cocktails are low- or no-alcohol. But don’t worry, you’ll barely miss it with the selection of inventive drinks. 

Low-Non Bar is run by Orchard Knight , which has seven other bars across Tokyo and Karuizawa in Nagano prefecture, such as Cocktail Works Jimbocho . The idea behind this one is to have a healthier lifestyle without missing out on the nightlife. Cocktails are made with a diverse selection of ingredients – shrubs, non-alcoholic spirits, tea, infusions, and seasonal organic produce from farms around Japan. 

The signature cocktail is the Low-Non Bar. Served in a highly Instagrammable glass bird, it’s a mix of cranberry juice, berries, grapefruit, red paprika and the botanical drink Shrb Orange & Ginger . Make sure to try the Umami Virgin Mary as well, featuring non-alcoholic gin, fresh tomato, shiitake tea and black truffle salt. 

There’s also a selection of food, from bar snacks like olives and dried tomatoes to heartier options like an assortment of sausages.

Yodobashi-Akiba

• Electronics

Akihabara wouldn’t be known as Tokyo's ‘electric town’ if it wasn’t for the area’s massive shopping complexes dedicated to electronics. One of the most famous is Yodobashi-Akiba, unmistakable for the colourful advertisements covering the building, which is just outside Akihabara Station.

This nine-storey building stocks all kinds of household electronics including computers, televisions, cameras, kitchen appliances and much more. There are even games, toys, fitness equipment and bicycles on the sixth floor.

Shopping is hungry work, so you'll be pleased to hear that there are restaurants and cafés in the Yodobashi-Akiba building. On the eighth floor is the Yodobashi Akiba Gourmet , an area with more than 20 restaurants serving popular Japanese dishes such as ramen, sushi, tonkatsu, yakiniku and the like, alongside Korean food, steak and craft beer.

Taiko Lab Akihabara

• Classes and workshops

You can become a taiko drummer within an hour at Taiko Lab in Akihabara. Each person will get their own taiko drum and a pair of bachi wooden sticks for the lesson. Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced drummer, the instructor will teach you how to make rhythmical sounds on the taiko , and you’ll even learn how to perform a song. Lessons are open to any age and English lessons can be booked for groups of up to 30 people via the website . 

B-Pump Akihabara

• Sport and fitness

This climbing gym has daily lessons for beginners who'd like to learn more about bouldering or rope climbing, and also features training sessions for first-timers and children. It's a great place to find new climbing buddies – no reservations are required, and all classes are free of charge (except for registration and entrance fees). Just in case you forget, the blacklight-decorated 'Space Wall' will remind you that you're still in Akihabara.

Raku Spa 1010 Kanda

• Health and beauty

After a long day exploring Akihabara, this spa is the perfect place to relax. It has three types of baths – a carbonated bath, daily seasonal bath and an ice bath, in addition to a spacious dry sauna.

Make sure you go up to the fourth floor to visit its relaxation lounge with napping pods, hammocks and bean bags, complete with a library stocking over 6,000 novels, comics and magazines you can read freely. There’s also a restaurant and pub serving local grub and craft beer, plus a co-working space.

2k540 Aki-Oka Artisan

• Okachimachi

Also known as ‘Artisan Street’, this unique retail space is set under the entire 2.54km stretch (hence its unusual moniker) of the JR railway tracks between Okachimachi and Akihabara stations. Here you’ll find over 45 shops and cafés, all featuring made-in-Japan items or local craftsmen and artisans selling their wares.

Head to Blue Trick for premium Japanese denim from Okayama, go to Nakazawa Kaban for leather bags, or customise your umbrella from 77 colour options at Tokyo Noble. Better still, some of the stores here offer workshops so you can try a little DIY crafting. Tired of walking? Take a coffee break at Yanaka Coffeeten, where you can nurse a cuppa while stocking up on freshly roasted coffee beans.

Akihabara Animate

Anime lovers should make a bee line for this shopping complex that carries officially licensed products of your favourite Japanese characters across 16 floors in two buildings. The first building is dedicated to merchandise from anime like One Piece, Haikyu, Jujutsu Kaisen, Spy x Family and more. You can purchase everything from stationery, figurines and keychains to clothing like T-shirts and hoodies.

The second building focuses on books and magazines. You’ll find a wide range of classic and new comics from leading publishers like Shueisha, known for its Jump Comics line of manga anthologies. If you need a break from exploring, head to Cafe Gratte on the second floor, where you can get an illustration of an anime character printed on your latte.

Kikanbo translates as an 'ogre’s iron club' and this corner-lot ramen-house feels suitably demonic with its black-painted interior, taiko  drum music and festival-style devil masks on the walls. The spice heat here can also feel like purgatory if you choose a dish that’s above your threshold. You order through a vending machine, then the staff will ask for your preferred spice level on a scale of five – for two types of spice mix, ‘kara’ and ‘shibi’.

‘Kara’ refers to the chilli heat and ‘shibi’ the numbing spice of sansho pepper mix (the Japanese version of the closely related sichuan pepper). This combination is a classic spice pairing in China's Sichuan province, where the effect on the palate is called ‘ma-la’ (or numbing-hot). The base of the soup is a light brown miso, seafood and meat stock, topped with slices of chashu pork, a handful of bean sprouts and a baby sweetcorn garnish.

Admittedly, Kikanbo is a short walk away from Akihabara proper, but it's worth the trek.

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15 Best Things to Do in Akihabara 2024

Step into the dazzling world of Akihabara, Tokyo’s electric playground and the global epicenter for all things anime, manga, and gaming. Whether you’re a tech-savvy traveler, a die-hard otaku, or simply curious about Japan’s pop culture, this dynamic district has something for everyone. From the high-energy atmosphere of its neon-lit streets to the quirky, themed cafés where you can sip tea served by maids or even owls, Akihabara offers an experience you won’t find anywhere else. Get ready to explore the best things to do in Akihabara, where you’ll find a unique blend of old traditions and futuristic fascinations. In this guide, we’ll uncover hidden gems and popular spots that will make your trip unforgettable.

1. Browse Electronics at Yodobashi Camera

For the tech-savvy and gadget enthusiasts, no trip to Akihabara would be complete without a visit to Yodobashi Camera . Often described as an “electronics wonderland,” this colossal store is a mecca for everything electronic, from the latest smartphones and cameras to obscure computer parts and audio equipment. Each floor is dedicated to a different category, allowing you to deep-dive into your specific interests. What makes Yodobashi unique is not just the sheer volume of items but also the availability of international models and the helpful, knowledgeable staff who are eager to assist. Even if you’re not in the market to buy, the experience of exploring this tech haven is exhilarating.

2. Explore Anime and Manga Stores including Mandarake and Animate

If you’re an anime and manga fan, prepare to lose yourself in the treasure trove that is Akihabara’s collection of specialized stores. Two of the district’s crown jewels are Mandarake and Animate . Mandarake is a multi-floor paradise filled with vintage collectibles, manga, cosplay items, and even rare, hard-to-find editions. It’s a hotspot for both serious collectors and casual fans. On the other hand, Animate, one of the largest anime and manga store franchises in Japan, is geared towards new releases and is impeccably organized, making it easier to find the latest manga volumes or anime Blu-rays. Both offer an overwhelming range of products that reflect the diverse sub-genres and niche interests within the anime and manga culture.

3. Stop by AKB48 Theater

One of the unique attractions of Akihabara is AKB48 Theater , a dedicated venue for the iconic Japanese girl group, AKB48. It’s a pilgrimage spot for fans of the group. Enjoy themed meals and drinks while watching recorded performances on large screens. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a live performance. The café is filled with memorabilia, and the theater, located on the 8th floor of the Don Quijote building, hosts regular shows featuring the AKB48 members or their sister groups. For fans of J-pop culture, this is an unforgettable experience, offering a unique glimpse into the world of Japanese idol fandom.

4. Shop for Video Games at Super Potato

If you’ve ever dreamt of a haven filled with vintage video games and retro gaming systems, Super Potato is the place to be. Considered a rite of passage for gamers visiting Akihabara, this store is a nostalgic trip down memory lane, offering everything from classic Famicom cartridges to PlayStation rarities. The collection is astonishing not just in its volume but in its quality—many games are available in their original packaging, complete with manuals. If you’re searching for a rare title or simply want to bask in gaming’s yesteryears, a visit to Super Potato is indispensable. The store also has a small arcade section where you can play classic games, making it more than just a shopping experience.

5. Enjoy Themed Cafés like the Owl Café or Maid Café

Akihabara takes the café culture to another level with its array of themed cafés. Owl Cafés offer an unusual but delightful experience where you can sip your coffee in the company of live owls. It’s an intriguing escape from the urban hustle. On the other end of the spectrum are Maid Cafés , where waitresses dressed as maids serve you with the utmost Moe demeanor. These cafés aren’t just about food and drink; they’re about an experience that includes live performances, photo ops, and games. Whether you’re into animals, anime, or something entirely different, Akihabara’s themed cafés have got you covered for an unforgettable experience.

6. Play Games at SEGA Arcade

The neon-lit SEGA arcade centers are a beacon for gamers and are integral to the Akihabara landscape. These multi-story complexes are filled to the brim with a wide array of arcade games, from classic claw machines and retro favorites to cutting-edge VR games. It’s not uncommon to see a diverse crowd, ranging from dedicated gamers intensely focused on competitive fighting games to couples enjoying a casual game of air hockey. Each floor often has its own theme or type of game, making it easy to find something suited to your tastes. For many, the SEGA arcade is not just a place to play games but to immerse oneself in Japanese gaming culture at its finest.

7. Visit Kanda Shrine

In the midst of Akihabara’s modern hustle and bustle lies a historical gem—the Kanda Shrine , also known as Kanda Myojin Shrine. This Shinto shrine, established in the 8th century, serves as a peaceful retreat from the electronic and anime paradise surrounding it. Often referred to as the “otaku shrine,” it has embraced the local geek culture by selling good luck charms specifically aimed at IT professionals and anime fans. Kanda Shrine is a definitely must-visit spot especially for fans of the anime series Love Live!. Don’t miss the Ema, wooden plaques where you can write your wishes; many of them are filled with drawings and messages related to anime and video games. Visiting the Kanda Shrine gives you an unparalleled chance to experience the confluence of tradition and modernity that Akihabara epitomizes.

8. Shop and Dine at Mansei Bridge

If you’re a tourist looking for a blend of old and new in Tokyo, make sure to add Akihabara’s Mansei Bridge (Manseibashi) and Maach Ecute Kanda Manseibashi to your must-see list. Located near Akihabara, a district famous for its electronics and otaku culture, Manseibashi is a historical red-bricked bridge built in 1912. Though it’s no longer in use for trains, the bridge itself is an architectural gem that harks back to Tokyo’s past. Just adjacent to Manseibashi is Maach Ecute Kanda Manseibashi, a renovated complex that was once a train station. This unique space has been transformed into a commercial facility, where you can shop for high-quality, locally-made goods or dine at one of the many cafes and restaurants. The complex beautifully integrates the old station’s architecture, including its platforms and stairwells, giving visitors a feel of Tokyo’s history while enjoying modern amenities.

So whether you’re an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or someone looking for unique shopping and dining experiences, Manseibashi and Maach Ecute Kanda Manseibashi offer a charming slice of Tokyo that caters to all interests.

9. Take Part in a Gachapon (Capsule Toy) Experience

Gachapon , or capsule toy vending machines, are an iconic part of Japanese pop culture and Akihabara has some of the best selections you’ll find. These aren’t your average toy dispensers; the quality and detail in these tiny collectibles can be astounding, and the sheer variety is overwhelming—from miniature furniture sets to rare anime figurines. Some machines even offer toys that are exclusive to Akihabara. For a few hundred yen, you can turn a crank and get a capsule, but the real fun is in the surprise; you never know what you’re going to get. It’s a must-do experience for anyone looking to take home a unique and affordable souvenir.

10. Geek Out at Tokyo Anime Center

For any anime enthusiast, the Tokyo Anime Center in Akihabara is nothing short of a mecca. This attraction isn’t just a store—it’s a comprehensive hub for anime culture that offers a range of exhibitions, interactive displays, and exclusive merchandise. The center frequently hosts events and exhibits showcasing the latest anime series, complete with panels, screenings, and opportunities to meet industry professionals. Additionally, the Tokyo Anime Center houses an expansive collection of art, including key animations and production materials, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how your favorite series came to life. If you’re keen to explore the expansive world of anime beyond the screen, this venue is a must-visit.

NOTE: In April 2021, to offer a new experience that merges the real and virtual worlds, Tokyo Anime Center relocated to the 2nd floor of Shibuya Modi in Shibuya. The facility was also renamed as Tokyo Anime Center in DNP PLAZA SHIBUYA.

11. Take Photos at Akihabara UDX Building

Akihabara UDX Building is a striking example of modern Japanese architecture and a great place to capture some beautiful photographs. Akihabara UDX Building, is another spot well-known to fans of anime such as Love Live! like like Kanda Shrine. As one of the area’s tallest structures, it offers panoramic views of the vibrant Akihabara district. Besides its visual appeal, the building houses an array of shops, restaurants, and exhibition spaces. It’s known for hosting a variety of events, from car shows to pop-up anime markets. Whether you’re an amateur photographer or just someone who loves impressive architecture, the Akihabara UDX Building provides plenty of photo opportunities that you won’t want to miss.

12. Visit Kotobukiya Store for Japanese Figurines

Kotobukiya Store is an action figure and model kit paradise that’s a household name among collectors. This iconic store offers an astonishing range of figurines, from mainstream anime characters to lesser-known cult favorites. The quality of craftsmanship is top-notch, with intricate details and vibrant colors that bring these figures to life. If you’re into Japanese pop culture, comics, or video games, you’ll find it hard to leave this store empty-handed. Besides action figures, they also have an incredible selection of model kits, accessories, and even kitchenware designed after popular characters. A visit to Kotobukiya is like stepping into a treasure trove that offers a captivating glimpse into the world of Japanese fandom.

13. Experience Cosplay Photography

If you’ve ever dreamed of embodying your favorite anime or video game character, Akihabara is the place where those fantasies can become photographs. The district is home to various studios that offer cosplay photography services, allowing you to dress up in meticulously detailed costumes and have professional photos taken. The studios often come with a variety of sets, so you can pose against backdrops that match your character’s universe. Makeup and hairstyling services are also available to complete the transformation. Whether you’re new to cosplay or a seasoned veteran, the experience provides a unique and fun way to engage with Japanese pop culture.

14. Go Karting in Akihabara Streets

If you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping way to see Akihabara, look no further than go-karting through its bustling streets. Various companies offer this one-of-a-kind experience, allowing you to dress up as popular characters while you navigate through the Electric Town and other parts of Tokyo. It’s not just a go-karting adventure; it’s a real-life video game character experience. You’ll be provided with all the necessary safety gear and even a guide to lead you through the best routes. For those seeking a dose of excitement while absorbing the lively atmosphere of Akihabara, this activity is a must-try.

15. Try Japanese Street Food such as Taiyaki or Takoyaki

A trip to Akihabara isn’t complete without indulging in Japanese street food. Taiyaki , a fish-shaped cake filled with red bean paste, and Takoyaki , ball-shaped snacks filled with minced or diced octopus, are local favorites. Street vendors and specialized shops offer these delectable treats, freshly made and piping hot. Each bite is an exploration of flavors and textures—from the crispy exterior to the soft, gooey centers. Whether you’re between shops or waiting for a themed café to open its doors, snacking on these Japanese classics is an excellent way to enrich your Akihabara experience.

As we wrap up this electrifying tour of Akihabara, it’s clear that this vibrant district is more than just Tokyo’s tech hub; it’s a sanctuary for otaku culture and an ever-evolving spectacle of Japanese innovation. If you’ve always dreamed of diving into the world of anime or exploring the latest in technology, Akihabara is the place to be. From endless shopping opportunities to cultural immersion, the best things to do in Akihabara have something for everyone. But be warned: A single trip to this magical district is rarely enough; you’ll find yourself drawn back to its enchanting allure time and again. Whether you’re an anime aficionado or a tech enthusiast, Akihabara has a way of capturing hearts and fueling imaginations. So go ahead, embrace the extraordinary and plan your next trip today!

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Akihabara: 10 Best Things to Do in Otaku Heaven

Akihabara is a buzzing area in the northeast of central Tokyo known as the electric town because of the many shops selling video games, anime and manga, and electronic goods. The name Akihabara originates from Akiba, the fire-protecting deity of the shrine that was built in the area after a destroying fire in 1869. The area has become more and more popular among foreign tourists as an attraction . Mostly because Japanese Pop culture is gaining popularity in other countries. However, there is much more than just pop culture in Akihabara, and even those who are not interested in it can have fun experiences there! In this article, we will introduce some of the best things to do in Akihabara.

Magical Lollipop

Like a doll, rabbit castle, 3. kanda myojin shrine, 4. don quijote akihabara, 5. akihabara gachapon hall, 6. animal cafes, 7. mandarake, 8. super potato akihabara, 9. kyusyu jangara ramen, 10. yodobashi camera (yodobashi akihabara), akihabara anime tour: explore tokyo’s otaku culture, tokyo private tour, where to stay in akihabara, japan wonder travel tours in tokyo, other articles you might like.

GiGo has several buildings in the Akiba area, and the 3 rd building is only a short walk from Akihabara station. It is mainly an amusement arcade with a variety of game machines including claw machines and purikura (a photo sticker booth). In addition, they have a special room designated for a VR experience where you can enjoy a shooting game with high-tech VR equipment!   

2. Maid cafes

If you are familiar with Japanese pop culture, you probably know about the maid cafes . Maid cafes are small cafes where waitresses are dressed up in maid costumes, and customers are treated as masters. Just like any other cafe, you can order food and drink, but here they are served with cute, unique toppings representing the kawaii culture of Japan . There are also various services depending on each cafe, such as waitresses singing and dancing on a stage or taking a photo with customers. In most cases, prices are relatively high compared to casual cafes, but it is definitely a unique experience that you should not miss out on while in Japan!

Recommended Maid Cafes in Akihabara

When it comes to maid cafes in the Akihabara area, there is a different style of cafe on just about every corner. With such a big selection, it can be tough to decide which ones are going to be the best to check out. Let us help you out with a few of the best recommendations for when you are visiting the neighborhood.

Magical Lollipop is one of the most well-known and highly-rated maid cafes in all of Akihabara. The theme here is magic, and all of the maids are dressed up as cute magical girl apprentices in training to become worthy of saving and serving the “heroes” who are their customers. With a following of over 60,000 subscribers on YouTube, they post videos for those new to the topic of maid cafes, advertising the staff members, and even videos that take you behind the scenes for a look at what maid cafes are really about. The cafe itself is known to be a welcoming place even for first timers so this may be the spot for you if you’re coming to Akihabara for the first time.

Magical Lollipop Official Website Hours: 5pm – 11pm Monday through Friday, 3pm – 11pm weekends and holidays 

Built around the concept of dolls, Like a Doll is a laid back maid cafe. The maids here are dressed up in their own classic yet original outfits that are cutely designed with chic colors. The interior of the cafe is stylishly decorated with brown and pink chocolate colors and ornaments, making for a calm and relaxed atmosphere. This is a great option if you want to kick back and enjoy the impeccable service and hospitality that maid cafes have to offer. 

Like a Doll Official Website Hours: 5pm – 11pm Monday through Friday, 3pm – 11pm weekends and holidays

RABBIT CASTLE is a maid cafe that was designed by Kyaroline Chan, a famous artist who is renowned for her works which include video studios, background art, and music videos. The theme behind this cafe is rabbits that grow magical carrots in order to help out the heroes. You can see a unique style here in the way that maids here wear gothic style uniforms in contrast with the interior which is all pastel colored. RABBIT CASTLE is particularly popular among girls who like cute designs as well as those who are a fan of Kyaroline Chan. 

RABBIT CASTLE Official Website Hours: 5pm – 11pm Monday through Friday, 3pm – 11pm weekends and holidays

Just a few minutes walk from Akihabara Station, RONRON is a fairly new maid cafe that has received nothing but amazing reviews. Designed by Shir0, a famous installation artist, this Chinese themed cafe is based around the idea of relieving fatigued heroes who are preparing for battle against the evil “Kyonshi.” All of the maids wear stylish original maid uniforms that are a blend of Chinese and maid attire. These loyal maids provide the heroes with the utmost hospitality and you are sure to feel like a king when dining here. This unique cafe is great for those looking for a picturesque cafe with great service. 

RONRON Official Website Hours: 5pm – 11pm Monday through Friday, 3pm – 11pm weekends and holidays

If you are looking for some historical places to visit in this buzzing town, Kanda Myojin Shrine might be the perfect place to experience the more traditional aspect of Japan. It is a Shinto shrine established in 730, making it the oldest shrine in Tokyo! It enshrines three different deities; the god of marriage Onamuchinomikoto (大己貴命), the god of business prosperity Sukunahikonanomikoto (少彦名命), and the god of expelling evil Tairanomasakadonomikoto (平将門命). It is one of the most powerful shrines and is frequently visited by large numbers of people. The shrine also stages some parts of the Kanda Festival, one of the biggest Shinto festivals. It is also visited by many tourists and anime fans because of its accessible location and the collaboration with famous anime characters!

Kanda Myojin Shrine Official Website Open 24 hrs No admission fee

Don Quijote is a Japanese discount chain store with a large selection of products ranging from snacks to cosmetics to clothes to bicycles. Each store has a unique marketing strategy targeting particular customers depending on the location. Don Quijote Akihabara sells comics, anime products, and costumes, and also has an idol theater called AKB Theater, where one of the most popular girls’ idol groups AKB48 held their first performance in 2005. If you are interested in Japanese idols, it is definitely a must-visit place! Don Quijote is also a great place for buying the best souvenirs to take home .

Gachapon is a vending machine that sells toys in a plastic capsule, another fun souvenir to bring home. You can find it almost everywhere in Japan, especially in amusement arcades or big shopping malls. You can get tiny, good-quality toys from ¥100 up to ¥500. You can’t choose which one you will get, so it’s all up to luck, which makes it more exciting! Akihabara Gachapon Hall is a small shop filled with Gachapon machines, and always crowded with Gachapon fans. Don’t forget to bring a lot of 100-yen coins as bills cannot be used for Gachapon machines!

If you are looking for somewhere not related to pop culture, but still very kawaii, you can go to an animal cafe. You can find different types of animal cafes in Japan, but there are many popular animal cafes in the Akihabara area. A visit to an animal cafe is very popular in Japan because many people cannot keep their own pets. It is enjoyable even for adults and offers you a relaxing time. Also, many of these locations require a reservation ahead of time. Please do follow the rules in the cafe!

Looking for the all-in-one ultimate anime and manga shopping complex? Look no further than Mandarake! Here you’ll be able to find everything including but not limited to manga, anime, figurines, posters, toys, games, and much much more. This is a great place to get not only some souvenirs to take home but also can make perfect gifts for friends and family back home. Of course, there are plenty of Japan-exclusive goods here, making it all the more fun to browse the 8 floors.

Super Potato Akihabara is a store that specializes in selling second-hand video games. Japanese video games are surprisingly popular and have a large number of fans all over the world. You can find old video games that will bring back childhood memories and that you probably won’t get to play back in your country, so many people end up spending more time there than they originally expected! On the fifth floor, Super Potato also has a vintage video game arcade, a fun activity on a rainy day (or any day really).

It may sound surprising, but Akihabara has many ramen restaurants and is a very competitive ramen area. Kyusyu Jangara Ramen is one of the most popular among them and has received many good reviews from local and foreign customers alike. What makes them special is a menu that includes some vegan ramen such as Vegan Sho-yu (soy sauce) Ramen. They have a limited number of seats (18 seats in total), so you might have to wait a little bit outside, but it is definitely well worth it! 

Kyusyu Jangara Ramen Official Website 11:00am – 9:45pm ¥600 – ¥1.200

Yodobashi Camera is one of the most famous electronics shops that has a number of locations all over Japan. As you can see, it has the word “camera” in its name, but it doesn’t mean that it handles only cameras or related equipment. They actually sell a large variety of products including home appliances, computers, gadgets, toys, and even hobby items! You can pretty much find anything you would want. Yodobashi Akihabara is located near the JR Yamanote line, and you will immediately notice the huge building with its neon-lights and colors, after walking out of the station.

The Best Akihabara Tours

Throughout the tour, our knowledgeable local guide will take you to all the best stores and gaming arcades so you can really experience the town like a local. Our guide will provide you with valuable insight into the buzzing Electric Town that you would never get going on your own. This tour is a great introduction to Akihabara for the first-timers!

¥4,000~ 1.5 hours (90 minutes)

If you’re not sure exactly what to do with your time in Tokyo, it’s never a bad idea to book a private tour with an experienced guide who can show you the ins and outs. And of course, the tour is customizable so you can add Akihabara to your itinerary as well!

¥60,000~ per group 8 hours

• Hotel Resol Akihabara – our top pick, modern, industrial hotel.
• Little Japan – small hostel, perfect if you are on a budget.

Akihabara is sometimes referred to as electronic town or otaku no machi (geek town). The heart of Otaku (geek) culture offers a large number of attractions and places to visit, making it a fun and entertaining area. If you want to feel the unique, lively atmosphere, we really recommend you go there! Seeing all the fun kawaii things, flashing neon lights and the buzzing atmosphere is definitely something special. We hope you enjoyed reading about some of the best things to do in Akihabara and add it to your next itinerary in Japan!

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Happy traveling!

Japan Wonder Travel is a travel agency that offers guided tours throughout Japan.  From private walking tours to delicious Food and Drink tours, we can help organize the best tours just for you! If you want to explore Japan and learn more about the history and backstories of each area you are traveling in, our knowledgeable and friendly guides will happily take you to the best spots!  In addition, we can provide you with any assistance you may need for your upcoming trip to Japan, so please feel free to contact us if you have any questions or need some help! 

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10 Fun Things to Do in Akihabara

Akihabara is the otaku capital of Japan and is a great place to spend a few hours — whether you’re into anime or not.

Between the crazily colorful, multi-story buildings, the “maids” plying the streets, and the hole-in-wall cafes and restaurants, it’s an experience that you won’t forget…ever. Here are 10 suggestions for fun things to do in Akihabara that won’t cost an arm and a leg.

1. Visit a maid café

Maid cafés are unique to Japan and don’t involve cleaning rooms or changing linen. Instead, you’ll be served mediocre food by a cute girl in a maid outfit calling you “master” or “mistress”. Contrary to popular belief, they aren’t full of creepy dudes; you’ll see many women also enjoying the company of the maids.

Going to one in Akihabara isn’t super cheap, but you can find some pretty good deals (for example, this maid experience costs only around ¥ 1,780 ).

2. Eyeball the anime cars

You can while away a good half-hour counting the cars plastered with pictures of anime girls in Akihabara. Usually roaring through the streets at night, these cars are known as itasha in Japanese, which translate to “painful car” — whether that’s due to hurting from embarrassment or the high cost is up for debate.

3. Get behind the wheel

Instead of goggling at cool cars, why not jump in one — well, a go-kart at least. It is one of the more unique ways of seeing Akihabara and you’ll get to live like your favorite copyrighted Nintendo character. Read our full guide of what you need and what to expect . Or skip the talk and go straight ahead and book .

4. Enter the game centers

The row of game centers near the Akihabara Electric Town Exit of the station is a great place to watch hardcore gamers working their magic on arcade machines. Think racing, drumming, Dance Dance Revolution, and much more. There are always lines for the UFO catchers , some of which are set to be “easier” on certain days. If you feel like parting with a few coins, there’s nothing stopping you from trying to scoop a plushie toy yourself. We recommend GiGO (formerly SEGA) Akihabara buildings 1 and 3, HEY (Hirose Entertainment Yard) for those who love the golden oldies, and Game Panic for music lovers.

Cheapo tip: If you spend enough money on the catchers, an attendant will come to help you out. Make a show and dance and they may come over even if you’ve only spent a couple hundred yen. Alternatively, you can purchase claw machine toys at the second-hand store Mulan Akiba .

5. Browse an electronics shop’s discount bin

Akihabara was once most famous for its cheap electric goods — SIM cards, LED lights, camera parts, you name it. Although the dynamic of the place has shifted over the years, there are still lots of stalls, stores — such as Tsukumo PC Honten and Dospara — as well as mega shops — like Yodobashi Camera and BIC camera — selling discounted electronics. Sometimes they have bins of marked-down items; it’s always fun digging through them to see what’s on offer (and then figuring out whether it’s still even in use).

Alternatively, help out your local mom-and-pop shops under the train tracks of Akihabara Station.

6. Pop into the anime shops

Visiting the anime and manga shops in Akihabara is one of our favorite things to do. They have everything from body pillows to key chains, school folders to cosplay costumes. The larger the shop, the higher the possibility they will have paraphernalia from your favorite manga or anime. If you’ve watched it, they probably have it.

Animate is a good place to start, followed by Mandarake and Lashinbang .

Wherever you go, to be safe, we recommend leaving your wallet with a trusted friend. All of these places can make you realize that you have always needed that expensive Evangelion tablecloth/figurine/entire collection of you-name-it.

• Animate Akihabara

7. Take an art break

If you need a breather from the buzzing crowds and your maid count has maxed out, take a stroll along the tracks of the Yamanote Line towards Okachimachi Station, where you can explore an artisan alley. 2k540 Aki-Oka Artisan is a cool little place that’s full of crafts, creativity, and good coffee.

• 2k540 Aki-Oka Artisan

8. Stop by Kanda Myojin Shrine

Akihabara’s not all neon and niche fandoms. Kanda Myojin is a tranquil space that has special significance for the IT crowd, with professionals coming from all over the country to seek a blessing for their innovations. The shrine, which was founded over 1270 years ago, is a quirky mix of tradition and tech and is a welcome respite from the visual overload of its surroundings (unless you come during the Kanda Festival that is).

If you want to take a deep dive on Tokyo shrines, join this waling tour , which starts at Ueno Station and finishes at Kanda Myojin.

Tip: See if you can spot the pony that lives at the shrine. Her name is Akari.

• Kanda Myojin Shrine

9. Relive your gamer youth at Super Potato

Remember the days of 8-bit gaming? — scoff not, young readers! — And how cool it was when Sonic was leet (for the uninitiated, that means elite)? Take a trip down memory lane by dropping into Super Potato , a weirdly named store that stocks all the good ol’ golden oldies. You don’t need to buy anything — just bow before the shelves of your lost youth. And weep into that pack of free tissues you were given on the street.

For those who even want more nostalgia, we also reccomend BEEP , Surugaya next door, and TRADER.

• Super Potato Akihabara

10. Go to M’s (a 7-floor sex shop)

M’s is probably one of the most well-known stores in Akihabara (though no one will admit to knowing anything about it). It’s famous for sexy costumes, sex toys, blow-up dolls, a vast porn collection, and many other “inappropriate” goodies. Their prices are fairly reasonable — and looking is always free. Note that you must be 18 years of age to enter the store, and you are expressly prohibited from taking pictures inside.

M's Pop Life Adult Department Store

Bonus: Slurp up some ramen

Along with your typical ramen ( Kyushu Jangara Ramen even has vegan options), tsukemen — separated noodles and soup — is also a popular dish to try in Akihabara. Highly rated stores such as Tanaka Ramen, Hyakunen Honpo (they also have ramen in a cup), and Iki na Isshō always have lines, so aim to have an early or late lunch.

P.S: Before heading off on your adventure, listen to this podcast that will take you deeper into the culture of Akiba , as the area’s known for short.

The original version of this article was written by Grace Buchele Mineta in 2013. Last updated: May 2023.

• M’s Pop Life Adult Department Store
• HEY (Hirose Entertainment Yard)
• GiGO Akihabara Building 3
• Mulan Akiba
• BEEP Akihabara
• Restaurants
• Kyushu Jangara Ramen Akihabara
• Maidreamin Akihabara (The Head Store)
• Featured-akihabara
• Sightseeing

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Akihabara (�H�t��), also called Akiba after a former local shrine , is a district in central Tokyo that is famous for its many electronics shops and has also gained recognition as the center of Japan's otaku (diehard fan) culture. Many shops and establishments devoted to anime and manga are dispersed among the electronic stores in the district. On Sundays, Chuo Dori, the main street through the district, is closed to car traffic from 13:00 to 18:00 (until 17:00 from October through March).

Akihabara has seen some redevelopment over the past years, which added some large, modern buildings to the mix of small to medium-sized shops and buildings. Most prominent among them is a huge Yodobashi electronics store just next to the station.

Electronics

Hundreds of electronics shops, ranging from tiny one-man stalls specializing in a particular electronic component to large electronics retailers, line the main Chuo Dori street and the crowded side streets around Akihabara. They offer everything from the newest computers, cameras, televisions, mobile phones, electronics parts and home appliances to second-hand goods and electronic junk.

A few chain stores such as Sofmap and Laox each operate multiple specialized branches along the main roads, while small independent shops can be found in the side streets. The only mega sized store is the Yodobashi Camera complex on the east side of the station.

Note that some of the electronics on sale are only intended for use in Japan due to voltage and other technical differences , Japanese language documentation and limited warranties. However, several stores also feature a selection of international models intended for overseas use, and most also offer tax-free shopping to foreign tourists.

Otaku goods

The character of Akihabara has constantly changed over the decades and continues to do so. In recent decades Akihabara has emerged as a center of Japanese otaku and anime culture, and dozens of stores specializing in anime, manga, retro video games, figurines, card games and other collectibles have filled the spaces between the electronics retailers.

In addition to shops, various other animation-related establishments have become popular in the area, particularly maid cafes where waitresses dress up and act like maids or anime characters, and manga cafes ( manga kissa ), a type of internet cafe where customers can read comics and watch videos in addition to having access to the internet.

Major electronics stores

Otaku attractions

Getting there and around

Akihabara Station is a busy station served by the JR Yamanote Line , JR Keihin-Tohoku Line , JR Sobu Line , the Tsukuba Express and the Hibiya Subway Line. Suehirocho Station on the Ginza Subway Line is located around the northern end of the district.

From Tokyo Station

Akihabara is two stations north of Tokyo Station by JR Yamanote Line or JR Keihin-Tohoku Line (3 minutes, 150 yen one way).

From Shinjuku Station

Take the JR Chuo Line (orange colored rapid service) from Shinjuku to Ochanomizu (10 minutes) and make an easy transfer to the JR Sobu Line (yellow colored local service) for one more station to Akihabara (2 minutes). Alternatively, take a yellow colored train all the way from Shinjuku to Akihabara (17 minutes). The one way fare is 180 yen in either case.

Orientation in Tokyo

Questions? Ask in our forum .

Links and Resources

Akihabara tourism promotion board, don quijote, super potato, akky international, radio kaikan, yodobashi camera, hotels around tokyo.

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• Ueno & Akihabara

Akihabara 秋葉原

Taito-ku, Tokyo-to

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Akihabara—Japan's electric town is the epicenter of otaku culture, anime and offbeat cafes

Once all about gadgets and the latest electronics, Akihabara is now an even mix of electrical goods megastores, maid cafes and all things anime. To go with its transformation, it has a new nickname—Akiba.

• Retro video game retailer Super Potato
• Visiting a themed cafe
• Handicraft shopping at 2k540

How to Get There

Akihabara Station is on the JR Yamanote and JR Sobu lines. It can also be accessed by the Keihin Tohoku Line, TX Tsukuba Express, and Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line.

Akiba's past

Akihabara got its nickname Electric Town from the black market that sprouted there after WWII. Common items being sold at the time included wires, cables, light bulbs and other electrical items.

The alleys and small shops that flourished in Akihabara's heyday still remain, somewhat intact, in arcades like Radio Kaikan and in a few other places mostly near the JR Sobu Line tracks.

As Japan grew more prosperous, Akihabara became a magnet for electric appliance manufacturers. The mega shops specializing in household electronics competed for Japanese customers buying their first fridges, televisions, washing machines and air conditioners.

This made Akihabara an icon of Japanese prosperity in the 1970s. But as these appliances became commonplace, Akihabara shifted towards calculators and watches, toys and games, and from the 1990s, computers and other technology.

Akiba—the hub of Japan's otaku culture

While shops offering a reminder of the old Akihabara do still exist, today's Akiba is focused on otaku culture, including anime, manga, smartphones, games, maids and cosplay. Loosely translated "otaku" means "geek." But unlike the connotations "geek" has in English, "otaku" is more of a cultural identity that self-proclaimed sorts assume with pride.

Retro gaming heaven

Super Potato is a famous video game store that epitomizes the otaku lifestyle. It is located in a small, nondescript building near an alley where maids and other Akiba mainstays hand out leaflets.

Decked out with retro games over three floors, relive your childhood by wandering through aisles of original Nintendo (Famicon) and game consoles including Nintendo 64, PlayStation, Sega Saturn, and the original Game Boy. It is also home to a game arcade that features, of course, games from the 1980s and 1990s.

While there are other stores that also sell retro games, but for fans both domestic and abroad, Super Potato is known as "the place where otaku go."

Not your average cafes

Akiba is home to many maid cafes, which are essentially cosplay restaurants where waitresses dressed as maids serve their "masters," or visitors.

There is also a slew of animal cafes where you can hang out with owls, cats, otters, rabbits or hedgehogs over your afternoon cup of coffee, as well as anime cafes, like one themed on the Gundam series.

J-Pop's biggest idol group

Akiba is the birthplace of one of J-Pop's most prominent and lucrative girl groups, AKB48. AKB stands for "Akiba," or "Akihabara," while 48 is the number of members in the group. Unsurprisingly, Akiba is where idols—and not just AKB48—tend to hold fan meets for their mainly otaku fanbase.

These events are made far more fascinating by the light-stick waving otagei, which refers to the cheering gestures by high-spirited otaku fans.

Another Akiba

The 2k540 Aki-Oka Artisan is another world altogether in Akiba, beneath the JR Yamanote Line tracks running between Akihabara and Okachimachi stations.

Here, you will find artisan crafts from across Japan, made with such attention to detail and design that they will be difficult to find anywhere else in the world. These products include textiles, pottery, furniture, stationery, clothing and even hats.

A final word on... food

People tend to spend a long time when they visit Akiba, often all day. Hence, there is an abundance of food options for shoppers and otaku alike.

You will be surprised by the range of eateries serving up good, inexpensive curry, ramen, or other hearty meals in Akiba; a budget gourmet's paradise for the quality, price, and sheer variety of options.

* The information on this page may be subject to change due to COVID-19.

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The Electric Town

Things to do in akihabara.

Akiba Fukuro - The Owl Cafe

Retro Arcade Gaming at Akihabara’s RETRO:G

Bandai Namco Arcade Akihabara

Miyamoto Park and Cafe Imasa

About akihabara.

Akihabara (秋葉原) is the premiere shopping area for electronics, anime, computer and otaku goods in Japan. Are you looking for a unique gift to bring home, how about a cell phone-controlled robot dog? If the technology can be dreamed of, it is likely that you will find it here in Akihabara.

It is also one of the few places in Tokyo or Japan where you will find a variety of languages spoken and announcements made. Many of the larger duty free shops will have English, Chinese, Korean but also in some you can find Spanish, Russian, Hindi, Bengali, Portuguese. You can check out the official shop list to see what languages are offered.

Akihabara is the Mecca of electronics in the world. It is here that you can find shops that sell anything from specialized electronic components to appliances in large-scale department stores. Many of the shops can be found lining Akihabara's main Chuo Dori street and its surrounding side streets. Be careful while you're shopping, some of the electronics sold in this area are designed to work only in Japan due to technical and voltage differences.

For anime and manga lovers, Akihabara is home to the Tokyo Anime Center, which holds numerous anime-related exhibitions and events, and the Mandarake, the self-described largest anime and manga shop in the world. In recent years, this area has gained much popularity both in Japan and internationally for being the heart of anime culture.

Costumed coffee shops, known as maid cafes, can also be found tucked in-between the electronic shops. These unique establishments frequently feature wait staff dressed as French maids who serve not only food, but they also engage their customers in games and conversation. These maid cafes can only be found in Japan, and they are extremely popular with both women and men. To find English-speaking maids, visit the @Home cafe , which caters primarily to foreigners.

There is too much to see and enjoy in Akihabara in an hour, so it is best to devote at least a day to explore the area.

How to Get There: The Akihabara district is serviced by its own station that sits on the main train line of Tokyo the JR Yamanote Line JR Keihin-Tohoku Line, JR Yamanote Line, the Tsukuba Express, the Hibiya Subway Line and the JR Sobu Line.

The Suehirocho Station also serves the Akihabara district on the Ginza Subway Line. The Suehirocho Station can be found on the northern end of the district.

Try not to get lost for these stations can be chaotic to navigate during rush hour. Happy shopping!

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Top 24 Things to Do in Akihabara

By Team Japan Switch | April 21st, 2023 

The list of things to do in Akihabara is endless, making it one of the most exciting and vibrant districts to visit in Tokyo. Akihabara is known for anime, manga, gaming, and technology culture, Akihabara has something for everyone. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a fan of Japanese pop culture, or simply looking for something new to explore, Akihabara has plenty of activities and attractions to offer.

The buzzing shopping hub in the Japanese capital is nicknamed the “ otaku heaven” by travelers and locals alike. Today, we take a closer look at the many varied attractions Akihabara has to offer, and how to best plan your visit.

This article is a part of our extensive series on Learning about Japan through Online Japanese Lessons at Japan Switch. ( We also offer in-person Japanese lessons in Ueno - only 5 minutes away from Akihabara!)

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Where is Akihabara?

Also known as Akihabara Electric Town (秋葉原電気街, Akihabara denkigai ), Akihabara is the district around Akihabara Station in Tokyo. While the name is used to describe the entire area, situated in the Chiyoda ward (千代田区, Chiyoda-ku ) in Tokyo, you can find most of the Akihabara attractions on the crowded main street.

Akihabara’s main street is located just to the west of Akihabara Station and houses all the electronics, novelty, and pop culture stores you could desire. While the main street is typically a satisfying experience for most tourists, exploring the adjacent streets is definitely worthwhile, if time allows.

Fun Fact: Akihabara takes its name from the word “Akiba” (秋葉), which refers to a Japanese deity who controls fire. After much of the surrounding area was destroyed in an 1869 fire, locals built a shrine against fire dedicated to that deity, hence the area’s name.

How much time should you spend in Akihabara?

Since Tokyo is brimming with exciting things to see and do, we strongly recommend devising a schedule before your visit. This will allow you to divide your time there most efficiently, and pack in more attractions.

That being said, you should set aside at least 2-3 hours for exploring Akihabara . Depending on how much of an otaku you are, and how many of the below attractions you want to see, you may need even longer. At the very most, half a day should offer plenty of time to indulge in all the wonders of Tokyo’s otaku heaven.

Side note: “Otaku” (おたく) is a Japanese term used to describe any young person with a serious interest in the digital world. This usually means someone with an in-depth passion for computers and video games, particularly manga and anime series.

How to get to Akihabara

Since Akihabara Electric Town is situated right next to Akihabara Station, you have several options for getting there. You can reach Akihabara Station by taking one of the following lines:

• Tokyo Metro's Hibiya Line
• JR Yamanote Line
• Keihin-Tohoku Line
• Tsukuba Express

Multiple of these can be accessed from either Haneda Airport or Narita Airport, and take you to Akihabara directly. If you're planning to do a lot of travel around the Kanto region, don't miss our Ultimate Guide to the JR Tokyo Wide Pass !

Pro Tip: There are several guided tours of Akihabara. Many of them have unique, niched focuses, either on video games or on certain manga/anime series. Do consider joining a guided tour for a more in-depth, knowledgeable look at Akihabara.

(Read more about getting to Akihabara here )

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8 Things to Do in Akihabara for Gamers

Since Akihabara is known as the premier destination for gamers, there’s no shortage of excellent stops for the game-enthusiast in you. As one of the most tech-heavy areas of Tokyo (and that’s saying something!), Akihabara offers a unique blend of retro gaming experiences, and the most modern video game and digital trends.

Formerly the SEGA Game Center, GiGO is a huge red building situated right outside the train station, and one of Akihabara’s most famed arcade centers. Here, you can find vintage arcade machines offering anything you could imagine – racing, rhythm, dancing, claw machines, etc.

Pro Tip: Visitors often find it easiest to take the elevator to the top floor, and just work their way down from there, sampling the arcade machines.

Interested in more of the cultural rules and norms that make up Japanese society? Read our Ultimate Guide to Japanese Customs here!

2. Super Potato

Speaking of gaming, and speaking of retro, Super Potato is the place to relive your childhood, or just explore the early days of video games. Super Potato is a three-floor shrine to video game history. Here, you can find a veritable treasure trove of arcade machines, and gaming systems no longer in use. You can also find a vast array of unique merchandise of all your favorite games – Legend of Zelda, Super Mario Bros, and Sonic the Hedgehog , to name a few.

Fun Fact: Since the machines on display are (understandably) the Japanese version, they can differ quite a bit from the machines in the West, which makes for some pretty exciting discoveries for video game lovers.

3. Gachapon

Gachapon Halls can be found all over Akihabara’s main street. Inside, you’ll find dozens of coin machines that distribute tiny playthings in plastic capsules. Not only is a Gachapon hall a fun, unique experience, but it’s also a great place to scoop up some traditional, inexpensive memorabilia from your Akihabara visit.

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4. Akihabara Gamers

Akihabara Gamers is by far the largest niche store in the area (and perhaps in Tokyo), and also doubles as a must-see stop for anime fans. Here, you can find merchandise, magazines, CDs, mugs, and a bunch of other unique items.

For anime and manga fans, the store offers the rather unique opportunity of meeting some of the most famous voice actors from their favorite series (so make sure you check their schedule!).

5. Go-Kart!

Go-karting has become a staple of Tokyo tourism by now, with many companies organizing go-kart tours of some of Tokyo’s most exciting tourist areas. Depending on the company, tour prices can range between 3,000 and 5,000 yen (roughly $20 - $36), for an hour-long ride.

Pre-pandemic, most companies threw in a full costume, so you could go-kart in style, dressed like your favorite video game character. Because of Covid-19, some companies have suspended this habit, however, they still allow you to drive the kart.

Pro Tip: Despite the video game connections, go-karting poses some safety hazards, and thus is taken seriously. To rent a go-kart, you will need to have a valid driver’s permit and follow a little training beforehand. Good news for non-drivers, though, as some companies allow you to rent a go-kart with a tuk-tuk , or attached rider.

6. VR Ninja Dojo

Under the guidance of a Master Ninja, the VR Ninja Dojo is a fully immersive introduction to the arts of shuriken , swordplay, and so on. Sporting a full ninja outfit, video game lovers have the opportunity of training as a ninja, and have their newly learned skills put to the test.

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7. Hirose Entertainment Yard

Also known as Taito HEY, the Hirose Entertainment Yard might not be one of the flashiest attractions of Akihabara, but it’s definitely worthwhile for gamers. Tucked behind the upfront crane machines, you’ll find more niche 90s classics like Arika’s Tetris the Grandmasters and Capcom’s Dungeons and Dragons (on the second floor).

HEY offers a sizable selection of fighting games, as well. The third floor is decked out with classics like Street Fighter, and several Gundam Versus games.

8. Yellow Submarine

Situated right outside Akihabara Station, Yellow Submarine is an emporium specializing in game character figurines and models, as well as a broad selection of board games. At the Yellow Submarine, you can meet fellow game enthusiasts, or sample their sizable trading card collection.

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5 Best Manga/Anime Things to Do in Akihabara

Even if you’re not into video games, Akihabara is a great stop to satisfy all of your manga/anime curiosities. Here, you can meet fellow fans, and voice actors, and of course indulge in some stylish cosplay .

From used manga and anime goods at Mandarake to a vast selection of merchandise at Animate, you're sure to find something that catches your eye!

1. Kotobukiya

Kotobukiya is the largest hobby shop that Akihabara has to offer, spreading across three giant floors. Besides the impressive model arrangements, this is where you find figurines and toy models of your favorite anime characters. Whether you’re looking for something specific, or just want to marvel at the plethora of merchandise, Kotobukiya should be on your Akihabara bucket list!

For manga fans, Animate is a great source of fantastic, yet pricey merchandise. With regular new merch dropping in, Animate no doubt has something to fit your unique anime desires.

While new items can cost quite a lot, Animate also offers an impressive, ever-changing selection of discounted items, allowing visitors to go home with some of their favorite UFO catcher staples for less than $7!

3. Mandarake

Stretching across 8 floors, the Mandarake Centre in Akihabara doubles as a must-see for both anime and game lovers, alike. From hand-drawn fan manga to collectible cards and figurines, Mandarake has got you covered. If you don’t mind shopping for pre-owned merch, you can walk away with some vintage manga memorabilia, and get a great bargain in the process!

4. Studio Crown

Studio Crown is where you take your Akihabara experience to the next level. Basically, it allows you to rent professional cosplay costumes of your favorite game or anime characters, and wear them, as you stroll the streets of Akihabara. Not only that, a Studio Crown visit also doubles as a lesson in cosplaying, with staff members giving you tips on make-up, wig arrangement, and so on.

5. Lashinbang

Alongside Mandarake and Animate, Lashinbang is one of Akihabara’s largest, most well-stocked anime merch stores. Stretched across two floors, Lashinbang offers a vast selection of anime figurines, models, and of course, magazines. Depending on your luck, and the time of your visit, you may catch them in one of their sale periods. During this time, you can get several manga crates at discounted prices.

#SIGHTSEEING

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Things to Do in Akihabara for Foodies

Even the most passionate manga and game fans will need to take a quick break, and recharge their batteries at some point. On that count, also, Akihabara has got you covered, and not just in any old way. In this super electronical district of Tokyo, even the cafes offer an unforgettable, slightly surreal experience. This way, making space in your crowded visiting schedule to grab some ramen won’t look like a waste of time, but immersion into the culture.

1. Maid Cafe

Maid cafes are a staple of Tokyo tourism, in general, though the Akihabara district is where they’re most concentrated. It’s a cultural phenomenon, where young women dressed in frilly French maid outfits serve the customers. There’s a certain degree of deference to Maid Cafes, with the maids calling the customer “Master” or “Princess”, and playing a subservient role. Even if you don’t enter a Maid Cafe, the streets in Akihabara are lined with these young women in costume, so you’re sure to get a maid sighting while there.

Not only are these types of cafes fun, they’re also largely affordable, featuring a broad menu of dishes and drinks. The Maidreamin ( めいどりーみん) chain alone features seven locations in the Akihabara region, and offers fun for the entire family.

Pro Tip : In peak tourist season, these cafes can get quite crowded, so make sure you book ahead.

2. Akiba Fukurou

Ranked as one of the best cafes in Tokyo on TripAdvisor, Akiba Fukurou (アキバフクロウ) has been a hit with locals and tourists alike for the 9 years it’s been in business. This exotic animal cafe is populated by 20 adorable live owls. These are fully domesticated and pose no threat. Instead, they provide a great photo and petting opportunity for visitors.

3. AKB48 Cafe

The spacious AKB48 Cafe is actually divided into three separate areas – the theatre, the shop, and the bar itself. It’s a must-see stop for fans of Japanese pop, especially since you can purchase tickets to live J-pop performances in the theatre.

If that’s not necessarily your thing, you can still grab a drink, as well as spectate the performance on a TV screen. And of course, afterwards, you can drop by the shop, and pick up some unique memorabilia.

If you’re looking for a more dish-oriented stop, rather than a cafe, Yasubei is the place to go. This is one of the best noodle and ramen chains in the entirety of Japan. Here, you can pick a traditional bowl of ramen to satiate your hunger, or try something a little more novel, and opt for a tsukemen bowl (dripping noodles).

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Novelty Shopping in Akihabara

Of course, what would a visit to Akihabara be without some shopping? Whether you just want to window shop and marvel at the sheer diversity of available products, or you want to go home with some exciting souvenirs, check out the Akihabara shopping outlets below.

1. Manseibashi Bridge

Manseibashi Station ( 万世橋駅) was a train station through which the JR Chuo line ran, connecting Kanda and Ochanomizu. Although it closed down in 1943, Maseibashi Station is still very much alive today.

While retaining its vintage red brick interior, the station itself located underneath the Manseibashi railway bridge, has been converted into a bustling shopping hub. Inside, you can sample traditional Japanese food, organic coffee, as well as shop at a number of stores. You’ll find both permanent stores within the station, as well as temporary pop-up stores that will be unique to your visit.

2. M’s Pop Life

This seven-floor *ahem* adult goods shop is one of Akihabara’s more unusual marvels. The store, known simply as M’s, features a vast collection of toys, appliances, magazines, and other items designed for intimate and adventurous uses. Of course, one must be at least 18 years old to enter, and even if you’re not in the market for such items, a visit can at least provide a few giggles.

Note that you may be asked to provide ID, and that photography inside is forbidden.

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3. Yodobashi Camera

As the name suggests, this nine-floor store mainly deals in the latest technology and electronics. Here, you can browse an impressive collection of cameras, as well as virtually any other electronical device or appliance that you could wish for. While Yodobashi Camera (ヨドバシカメラ) is great in terms of window shopping alone, it also features items at reasonable prices, so if you’re in the market for a new camera, phone, or whatnot, Yodobashi Camera should be your next stop.

If you are in the market for Apple products, and computers, and Yodobashi Camera doesn’t meet your requirements, you might want to check out Janpara, as well. This used goods store allows you to take home Apple and PC items in good working condition, but at half the price.

Pro Tip: Worried about using the items back home? Don’t be. At Janpara, the phones and computers purchased are sold SIM lock free, so they’re not geographically restricted. Nevertheless, you might want to check with the staff before purchasing, just to make sure you’ll be able to use your chosen item fully at home.

5. Don Quijote

Finally, Don Quijote is a more generalized massive shopping outlet that offers anything and everything. It’s really a one-stop shop, featuring anything from electronigs to homeware, all at affordable prices. THe Don Quijote shopping centre is the sort of place where, even if you weren’t looking for anything when you came in, chances are you won’t go away empty-handed.

Our 3 Favorite Cultural Things to Do in Akihabara

In Akihabara, even the cultural stops take on a slightly geeky, and techy allure. That being said, here are some of our favorite stops in the district, when you’re not in a gaming/anime mood, nor do you want to get lost in a vast shopping centre. Immerse yourself in the culture, and why not, learn a little more about the fascinating history of the Akihabara district.

1. Radio Centre

While the Radio Centre might not be what you’d call a traditional museum, it’s nevertheless an important point in Akihabara’s history. After World War II, the district became known for the black market running within its crowded streets. On Akihabara’s back alleys, you could get your hands on a wide range of items that were hard to come by in normal stores. Since these heavily featured various technology items, that’s how Akihabara built this reputation as a tech mecca.

Located right outside the train station, the Radio Centre is where everything began. To this day, it hosts a vast array of phones, PCs, and other gadgets. Not to mention that old school, vintage vibe really allows you a window into Tokyo’s fascinating past.

2. Kanda Myojin Shrine

For a true break away from the neon and the skimpy outfits, make sure you check out the Kanda Myojin Shrine (神田明神). This traditional Japanese shrine was originally built almost 1300 years ago, and for much of that time, constituted a regular shrine. To this day, you can come here simply to take a breather, and enjoy a slice of tranquility, which you might need, especially in a flashy, busy city like Tokyo.

In more recent times, the Kanha Myojin Shrine has taken on a specific significance for the IT and tech crowd (of course!). Nowadays, it’s a known good-luck place for developers, coders, and everyone looking for a blessing for their new tech-y enterprise.

So whether you’re interested in the Shrine for its blessing-conferring powers, or simply as a sliver of old Tokyo, make sure you stop by.

3. Tokyo Daijingu Shrine

Finally, this one is for all the couples out there, traveling to Japan. Founded in 1880 (though moving to this particular location only in 1928, following a great earthquake), the Tokyo Daijingu Shrine ( 東京大神宮 ) is a famous wedding ceremony space. In local culture, it’s believed that the deity overlooking the shrine is an important god of love and marriage, and that unions celebrated within the Shrine’s walls will be long-lasting and happy.

Newlyweds can also visit the Inari Shrine (飯富稲荷神社), which is located on Daijingu grounds, this being a shrine for home, food, and clothing. So not only can you get your union blessed with love here, it’s also a place to ask for plenty of nourishment and warmth.

#SHRINES # TEMPLES

Check out our Ultimate Guide to Shrines and Temples in Tokyo for a real taste of Japan's rich and colorful history!

Final Thoughts 

Pro Tip:  One of the biggest tourist periods for Akihabara is around the New Year festivities, as well as during the spring (cherry blossom season). To enjoy better prices, as well as fewer crowds, consider traveling in the off-season.

As with the rest of your Japanese travels, planning is key. Hopefully, this list of attractions has given you a solid idea of things to do in Akihabara on your trip! Note that, since it’s a shopping-heavy district, your visit to Akihabara can cost as much or as little as you want it to.

Even if you’re traveling on a budget, visiting Akihabara can be a great, fun experience. As we’ve seen, thanks to the reasonable prices and many discounts and sales going on, chances are you’ll find some gaming, tech or anime memorabilia to take home without breaking the bank. While you're out and about, you might also want to check out: 

Our Favorite Things to Do in Yokohama Top 24 Things to Do in Chiba Top 20 Things to Do in Shibuya

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A Guide to Akihabara: Best Shops and Places, Hidden Gems, and Things to Do in Tokyo's Electric Town

• Jack Xavier

Any fan of Japanese culture, whether that be anime, manga, games, or even music, has heard of Akihabara, an area of Tokyo known as a veritable mecca of “Cool Japan.” From electronic appliances to computer parts, video games, manga, and more, Akihabara has it all! Today we will be looking at a selection of the best places and shops in Akihabara, some well known and others more obscure, to help give you a well-rounded guide to Tokyo’s most famous pop culture center.

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How to Get to Akihabara

There are five different train lines you can use to get to Akihabara, making it easy to access from pretty much any part of the Tokyo metropolitan area: JR Chuo-Sobu Line, JR Keihin-Tohoku Line, JR Yamanote Line, Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line, and the Tsukuba Express.

To save money on transport, we recommend using either the JR Pass or Tokyo Subway Ticket , both which can be bought online. Alternatively, consider getting the Suica transport card which can be used on both JR lines or the subway.

First, Explore the Famous Akihabara Street of Chuo-Dori

Chuo-dori Avenue is Akihabara's main street and one of the first destinations for any new Tokyo traveler. With just one stroll through the street, you can quickly knock out some of Akihabara's best shops, though we personally believe the real charm of the area lies off the beaten path. Part of the fun is the exploration, so instead of us listing specific places to visit on Chuo-dori, we hope you'll visit and see the sights for yourself.

Check Out Some of the Best (Most Popular) Shops and Places in Akihabara

Bookoff akihabara ekimae store.

BOOKOFF is a nationwide chain that mainly deals in used books and manga, and also offers a selection of used DVDs, CDs, video games, and more. Used items in Japan are usually in quite good condition, so BOOKOFF is a great way to hunt down something you're looking for and save a few yen. The Akihabara location is particularly worth visiting due to its large selection of used electronics in addition to printed media. Try wandering through the many shelves until you find something that strikes your fancy!

Yodobashi Camera Multimedia Akiba Store

Yodobashi Camera is a chain that mainly stocks electronics of all kinds. The store in Akihabara is particularly well known for its size; with 8 floors and a basement level stocked with everything from computers to vacuums, HD TVs, and even fax machines (yes, those still exist in Japan!), it is a great place to get souvenirs and new high-tech electronics to bring back home and impress your friends. If you're not interested in electronics, they also stock popular cosmetics, delicious snacks, and even children's toys, making it an amazing one-stop shop for any of your shopping needs. If you show your passport with a tourist visa, you can enjoy duty-free purchases as well!

GIGO Akihabara

GIGO arcades are present throughout Japan, and there are multiple complexes found along the main street of Akiba. Claw machines, rhythm and beat games, and everything from retro video game corners to Japan's latest and greatest arcade fare can be found here. You can spend hours trying your hand at all the games here, but it can be just as entertaining to glimpse the hardcore gamers in their element. 

It should be noted that smoking is allowed indoors on some of the floors, so be prepared for potential culture shock if you're from a country where indoor smoking is banned. In addition, snapping a photo is allowed, but taking videos within the arcade is prohibited, so please be mindful of the rules. Some popular games even require you to sign a form and wait in line for your turn, so if you see a crowd of people, look out for a sign up form nearby.

animate Akihabara

Whether you're looking for anime merchandise, manga, or the latest games, animate has you covered. While the flagship store is in Ikebukuro, another one of Tokyo's otaku paradises, the one in Akihabara is well worth seeing as it covers two different buildings, making it one of the larger branch stores in Japan. Apart from endless rows of merchandise and gacha machines , you'll find an event space and even a themed cafe.

Kanda Myojin Shrine

With nearly 1,300 years of history, Kanda Myojin Shrine has been worshipped by both the general public as well as notable figures such as shogun (military dictator) Ieyasu Tokugawa. Today, it is most known for its Kanda Matsuri, a festival held every odd-numbered year in May where a parade is led from the shrine and through Tokyo's central districts such as Nihonbashi and Otemachi, drawing in crowds from all around. Many people also visit for its unique omamori charms , which are often themed around popular anime or even technology to match Akihabara's eclectic, geeky culture. No visit to Akihabara is complete without buying one of these charms to take back home!

Dive Into the Akihabara “Underground” by Checking Out Akihabara’s Hidden Gems

Super potato akihabara branch.

Any fan of retro video games will surely be enchanted the moment they step into Super Potato. This used video game shop has three floors of software and hardware, including rare and limited edition items from the likes of Nintendo, Sega, Sony, and more. On the top floor is a retro video game arcade where you can revisit an age gone by awash in the beeps and bloops of childhood memories.

Mandarake Complex Akihabara Branch

Mandarake has a number of locations across Tokyo, but the Akihabara branch, with its imposing, all-black exterior, is perhaps the most impressive. This location features eight floors full of antique toys, independently published manga, video games, and more.

As we mentioned above, buying used goods in Japan is usually an affordable way to get a hold of rare items, and Mandarake caters to both this bargain-hunting crowd and the hardcore collectors who are willing to drop a considerable sum for the rarest items to complete their collection. Walking the jam-packed aisles of Mandarake is an adventure in itself, and around every corner is a new oddity or surprise waiting to be discovered.

Akihabara Gachapon Kaikan

Gachapon is the Japanese name for vending machines that dispense capsule toys. You'll find these vending machines all throughout Japan, but particularly so in Akihabara. One location in particular, Gachapon Kaikan, or Gachapon Hall, is known as the holy land for gacha enthusiasts. Gachapon Kaikan has been in operation for over a decade, and the whole store is packed with gacha machines sure to meet everyone’s tastes. From cute and wacky to cool and handy, the collectibles available in these are machines make for great souvenirs for yourself or friends back home.

Akihabara Rare Vending Machine Corner

At first glance, this innocuous little street filled with vending machines may not seem so special. However, if you take a closer look at what's actually being sold, you will understand why this corner of Akihabara has generated a bit of buzz in the past. A standard selection of drinks are sold next to stag beetles, batteries, bells, and other things that don't start with the letter B! If you'd like to read up on this oddity and other bizarre vending machines across Japan, please have a look at our roundup of 10 off-the-wall vending machines in Japan !

Go Through This Checklist of Top Things to Do in Akihabara

Street go karting experience in akihabara.

What better way to explore the sights of Akihabara than on a go-kart? This wild experience is rare to find in any other part of Japan, let alone overseas. A guide will accompany you all the way, so you can cruise Akihabara's streets knowing you're in safe hands. You'll also get many opportunities to take all the photos you want, whether it be of the streetscape or you and your friends, family, and the guide!

*Note: You must have an international driver's license. Costume rentals were also temporarily suspended due to the pandemic.

Find Unique and Bizarre Electronics and Treasures at Akihabara's Junk Street and the Akihabara Parts Market

On a treasure hunt for electronics and parts? While the aforementioned stores do hold some treasures, it's Akihabara's Junk Street and Parts Market where you'll find the true hidden gems. Many are sold at bargain prices, and even if they aren't, they're sure to be far more economical than anything you can find back home. Make sure to carry cash, as many of the stores don't accept any other form of payment.

Maid Cafe Experience at Maidreamin Tokyo

Maid cafes have long been one of the iconic representations of Japan's quirky modern culture. To get a taste of it, just step into Maidreamin, where waitresses in cosplay maid outfits will serve and entertain you to the best of their abilities. Though they may not speak much English, their hospitality and cheerful attitudes goes beyond language barriers. Snap a souvenir photo of not just the maids, but also the adorably decorated food and drinks. They'll even give you a complimentary gift for your visit!

Snap Some Great Pictures at Akihabara's Top Photo Spots

Chuo-dori street.

On Sundays, the street closes to all vehicles, making it pedestrian heaven. Chuo-dori is at its busiest then, as most Japanese have Sundays off. Contrary to popular belief, this makes it the best day to take photos that truly capture the essence of this lively part of Tokyo. If you've ever seen photos of Akihabara's streetscape, chances are it was taken at Chuo-dori on a Sunday!

Sunday pedestrian-only times: October - March: 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm April - September: 1:00 pm - 6:00 pm *Might be cancelled on days with bad weather.

Mansei Bridge

One look at the above photo should make it clear why Mansei Bridge is such a good photo spot for capturing Akihabara's streetscape. Nearby, you'll find plenty of stores and eateries, so after you're done snapping a few pictures, why not explore and then sit down and admire the view while chomping down on some delicious food?

Don't Miss Out on All of the Best Places in Akihabara!

Even with all the locations mentioned in today’s list, there are still many more stores and surprises waiting for you all over the streets of Akihabara. If you are a fan of otaku culture, you may find yourself coming back again and again during your stay in Japan.

Recommended Hotel in Akihabara: Akihabara Washington Hotel

Title image: InfantryDavid / Shutterstock.com

If you want to give feedback on any of our articles, you have an idea that you'd really like to see come to life, or you just have a question on Japan, hit us up on our  Facebook ,  Twitter , or  Instagram !

The information in this article is accurate at the time of publication.

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15 BEST THINGS TO DO IN AKIHABARA [TOKYO GUIDE]

WHAT TO SEE IN AKIHABARA? IS AKIHABARA WORTH A VISIT? WHAT IS AKIHABARA FAMOUS FOR?

Akihabara, also known as “Akiba”, is one of the best districts to visit in Tokyo . It is a very popular place for fans of Japanese pop culture.

Indeed, the otaku culture is in the spotlight with shops specializing in anime, idols, video games, and high-tech products. This is why this part of Tokyo is also called “the electric city”.

Akihabara, the Ultimate Guide!

In a nutshell, Why Visit Akihabara?

– For its amazing Otaku Culture – For the great atmosphere, especially at night! – For its theme cafes, especially the famous Maid cafes – For shopping for all kinds of electronics – And so much more!

WHAT IS AKIHABARA FAMOUS FOR?

The best way to explain why Akihabara is the temple of Japanese pop culture is to know the history of this part of Tokyo…

1. A black market for electronic components

Akihabara became a lively district in Tokyo after the opening of Akihabara Station in 1890. This station made it a transit point for goods.

Akihabara, as we know it today, began to develop during the American occupation after World War II.

At that time, the district hosted a huge black market of electronic components which made the popularity of this place . Indeed, the post-war period was a difficult period for the Japanese population.

Everyone was doing what they could to survive. Smuggling gear was therefore an easy way to fix faulty electronics .

This period of crisis did not last very long, as Japan experienced an unprecedented economic boom until the end of the 20th century.

The freedom enjoyed by Akihabara dealers formed the basis of an entrepreneurial environment. Gradually, smugglers gave way to electronics stores, some of which became nationally successful chains.

2. Computers and video games

During the 1980s, the sale of spare parts for household appliances continued to decline. Neighborhood merchants gradually turned to a new sector that was beginning to invade Japanese homes and offices: computers.

A few years later, with the development of the Japanese video game industry , many shops started to specialize in this segment.

This is how Akihabara acquired a special status for video game players in Tokyo . Arcade rooms have therefore been set up in the immediate vicinity of stores selling computers and video games.

3. Otaku paradise

Even more recently, electronics and video game stores have made room for other kinds of shops selling cultural products derived from anime and J-Pop.

These new signs have influenced the image of this district of Tokyo. Today, you will see anime and manga everywhere in Akihabara!

What is Otaku?

BEST THINGS TO DO IN AKIHABARA?

1. walk around chuo-dori.

The term Chuo-dori can be translated as “Central Street” and this name fits perfectly with this long axis that crosses Akihabara.

It is in this boulevard that you will find the largest electronics and manga stores in the area.

We recommend starting your visit with Chu-dori, one of the best things to see in Akihabara!

Then you can start venturing into the smaller streets of Akihabara.

If you come on Sunday afternoon, you can enjoy Akihabara even more, as the road is closed to vehicles from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Location: here

One of the best ways to discover Akihabara is to hire a local guide who will tell you so many amazing stories about this area. You can hire a local guide.

2. Have fun in the Arcade rooms

In addition to these many stores selling video games, Akihabara is also known for its many arcades in which the most seasoned players meet to achieve superhuman performances.

Visit one of the many establishments dedicated to gaming to understand the true meaning of the expression “Pro Gamer”.

But rest assured, the arcades are not reserved only for good players. You too can try the latest games that are a hit in Japan as well as the great classics.

Our favorite arcade rooms are:

This is one of the largest arcade rooms in the area! It is one of the best things to see in Akihabara, so don’t miss it!

You can’t really miss this building actually, as it’s a huge sharp red building right in front of the JR station on the main road.

At Gigo you will find multiple floors full of arcade games . We recommend taking the lift to the top and walking your way down.

Location: here Website: here

An arcade renowned for its many retro fighting games made by SNK and Namco.

The atmosphere is very different from that offered in Gigo, since Taito Hey is halfway between an arcade room and a museum in honor of the golden age of Japanese video games.

Tokyo Leisure Land

Tokyo Leisure Land is targeting a different audience than the arcades mentioned above.

This arcade offers rhythm games on five floors. You can try to make High Score on guitars, traditional Japanese drums or dance mats.

A place to avoid if your ears are fragile and don’t like loud music!

If you want to further explore Akihabara, join a gaming and Maid Cafe tour. >> BOOK HERE <<

3. Go shopping in Akihabara

Several of the major electronics chains with their flagship stores on Chuo-Dori, Akihabara’s main avenue.

You can find cameras, computers, televisions, state-of-the-art smartphones, and even spare parts. Shopping for electronics is one of the best things to do in Akihabara.

Some of these chain stores have multiple branches in the neighborhood. This is the case, for example, of Laox or Sofmap which have several establishments specializing in different types of products.

Here is our shopping guide in Akihabara:

One of the most imposing shops in Akihabara.

The seven floors of this megastore are dedicated to electronic and high-tech products. One of the floors is dedicated to second-hand items, video game consoles, manga, and anime.

The 9-story megastore of this popular brand throughout Japan is located just opposite the East Exit of Akihabara Station.

You can lose yourself for hours in this shop of high-tech products.

This chain has six stores in Akihabara alone. In addition to their flagship store, the five other establishments specialize in different types of products: CDs, video games, Apple devices, second-hand computer equipment, etc.

The flagship store of this brand is renowned for offering the widest choice of tax-free products for foreign tourists. You will find many types of devices, but also video games and souvenirs.

Akihabara Radio Kaikan

This building shaped Akihabara since it is one of the oldest electronics stores in the area.

By browsing the narrow aisles of these thirty shops, you can choose from millions of electronic components, manga, and playing cards.

All these megastores offer foreign tourists the opportunity to shop duty-free.

It can therefore be very advantageous to go shopping in Akihabara if you want to buy electronic equipment.

4. Check out Anime, manga, and figurine stores

In Akiba, you will be spoiled for choice if you are looking to get a figurine of one of your favorite manga characters.

Many shops run by resellers or manufacturers compete along Chuo-Dori Avenue and in the small streets of Akihabara.

These are the most famous stores in Akihabara:

This place is legendary in Akihabara! You can’t miss it.

This store buys back products that collectors no longer want. The Akihabara store is one of the largest in Japan. You can find figurines, video games and very rare books at good prices.

Animate is a chain store known for its wide selection of anime, manga, figurines and collectible cards. The Akihabara store is the perfect place to find gifts for your friends who are fans of otaku culture.

One of the world’s most famous figurine manufacturers also has its shop in Akihabara.

You can browse spaces dedicated to popular licenses such as Monster Hunter or Idolm@ster in this five-story store.

To learn more about anime in Akihabara, you can hire a local guide here.

5. Akihabara is a video game paradise

Check out these video game shops when visiting akihabara in tokyo:, great potato.

This shop located in a small street of Akihabara is known to offer a very wide choice of old video games.

All retro gaming fans will appreciate this museum where most of the pieces are for sale.

As its name suggests, this brand, which has several stores in Akihabara, targets video game fans of all kinds.

You can also get your hands on video games, CDs and movies at these stores.

Their second-hand product departments contain many treasures for collectors of video games, DVDs and other media.

6. Experience a maid cafe in Akihabara

Maid cafes are everywhere in Akihabara.

Many tourists come to this area of Tokyo to discover these unique restaurants in which the waitresses are dressed in outfits inspired by French maids.

They treat all customers like royalty by naming them “goshujin-sama”, which could be translated as “master”.

The first maid cafe opened in Akihabara in 2001. This concept became popular in the area in the following years, and other establishments offering similar services opened.

Some of these cafes have slightly different themes since they are inspired by school or the army.

Although there are several maid cafes elsewhere in Japan, it is in Akihabara that you will find the most! Take advantage of your visit to this district to visit this type of establishment.

You can book directly here for the best price .

Note: there is nothing sexual or weird about visiting a Maid Cafe. It’s a unique experience which we highly recommend, even as a couple!

7. Visit Pop Life Department M’s (for adults)

This adult store consists of seven floors for sex toys, all sorts of kinky costumes, videos, dolls, etc. While in most countries it would be a bit awkward to step into that kind of shop, in Akihabara not at all!

It’s just another huge shopping mall, but purely dedicated to adults! It’s worth stopping by to check out the store even if you don’t intend to buy anything.

Inside the shop is very neat. You will find plenty of curious tourists too!

Well, it’s another unique experience in Akihabara . Don’t feel weird about it.

8. Attend a show at AKB48 Theater

The AKB48 Theater is the venue for Japan’s most popular idol group: AKB48. “AKB” is the contraction of Akiba, and 48 corresponds to the number of members in the group.

Yes, you read correctly.

It is a girl band made up of 48 young women representing the feminine ideals of people who usually frequent Akihabara . The group has existed since 2005.

AKB48 follows the archetypes of what is called Akiba-kei, a term that can be translated as “Akihabara style”.

This concept, which appeared in the 1980s, defined all the stereotypes of what otakus who frequent Akiba like. That is to say manga, fantasy, new technologies, and robots.

To check the schedule and buy a ticket, click here .

9. Visit 2K540 in Akihabara

Forget about otaku culture for a while and listen to 2K540 one of our favorite areas in Akihabara.

This is an artistic street built under the JR lines. At 2K540 you’ll find over 50 artisan shops, studios, galleries and cafes.

The boutiques sell everything from leather goods to woodwork to jewelry. Visitors are encouraged to craft various items themselves.

The only geeky thing about 2k540 is its name. A nod to railway terminology, “2k540 Aki-Oka Artisan” refers to the distance from Tokyo Station (2.54 km) and its location between Akihabara (Aki) and Okachimachi (Oka).

10. Visit Akihabara with a go-kart!

Wanna have a memorable and unforgettable moment in Tokyo? Take a go-kart tour inside of Akihabara, the Electric City!!!

Explore the streets of the electric city in a go-kart. You can dress up with your friends as Mario Kart and follow an English-speaking guide who will show you the favorite neighborhood of Otakus from a different angle.

Crazy right?! Well, welcome to Tokyo then.

This is one of the best activities in Akihabara!

>> BOOK HERE <<

11. Cool down by visiting a shrine in Akihabara

Like most neighborhoods in Tokyo, there is always a shrine to visit where you can find peace in this concrete jungle!

Although Akihabara is not known for spirituality, there are 2 important Shinto shrines in the area.

Kanda Myoujin

It is one of the oldest Shinto shrines in the Japanese capital. Its proximity to Akiba has made it a place of worship for technophiles. For this reason, you can buy talismans protecting electronic devices there. ( location )

This Shinto shrine is a little less famous than the Kanda Myojin. However, it is quite important, since it is an annex to the great Ise Jingu shrine, one of the most important places of worship for Shintoists. ( location )

Daijingu is located in Karaguzaka, the French district of Tokyo, right next to Akihabara. If you want to go for a nice dinner we recommend this area.

We wrote a full post about it: 10 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN KAGURAZAKA, THE FRENCH DISTRICT OF TOKYO

12. Visit a themed cafe

Several licenses and brands have their own restaurants and cafes in Akihabara. It’s a way for otakus to immerse themselves even more in the worlds that fascinate them.

Square Enix Cafe

This restaurant located on the first floor of the Yodobashi Akiba store has a menu made up of many dishes and drinks inspired by J-RPG licenses such as Final Fantasy or Dragon Quest.

Final Fantasy Eorzea Café

This cafe is inspired by Final Fantasy XIV. It takes up the design of one of the flagship locations of this MMORPG: Carline Canopy. All food and drinks are named after in-game items.

There are also cute animal cafes.

Several cafes in Akihabara allow you to drink in the company of felines. This type of establishment has become popular all over Tokyo, so you can also make this kind of stopover elsewhere in the Japanese capital if you are an animal lover.

Akiba Fukurou and Owl no Mori are not like the others, since it allows you to quench your thirst in the company of owls. It is one of the neighborhood’s favorite attractions for tourists visiting the Japanese capital.

The place is very popular in Akihabara, hence you will have to queue to get in, unless you buy a skip the line ticket here .

13. Eat some of the best ramen in Akihabara

Akihabara is renowned for its many ramen restaurants.

There are so many establishments offering ramen that the area has become very competitive! It pushed the ramen restaurants to offer top-quality dishes!

So if you want to eat an authentic bowl of ramen, do it in Akihabara.

One of the most popular ramen restaurants in Akihabara is Kyushu Jangara

It is a really tiny ramen restaurant so expect to wait a bit! But their ramen are absolutely outstanding! A must-try in Akihabara.

Location:  here

14. Visit mAAch ecute Kanda Manseibashi shopping centre

mAAch ecute Kanda Manseibashi is a shopping center located halfway between Ochanomizu and Kanda stations, in the Chiyoda district just next to Akihabara.

The red brick arches that house the shops have had several lives before becoming a shopping center . Originally, Manseibashi Station handled train traffic on the Chuo Line, before becoming a museum and then being completely renovated into a trendy shopping area.

It was in 2012 that a rehabilitation project decided to take advantage of the potential of this beautiful arched structure to create a new commercial space.

Since 2013, it has therefore been possible for visitors to return to this contemporary, industrial and historical site. Inside the shopping center, the raw cement vault reveals in places the cast iron supports of the structures of the old station.

15. Akihabara Gachapon Kaikan: Capsule Toy Dispensers

Another unique thing to do in Akihabara is to check out Gachapon Kaikan , an entire store dedicated to Capsule Toy Dispensers , also called Gachapon.

Gachapon is very popular in Japan. However, what makes Gachapon Kaikan so special, is that the entire store from top to bottom is full of those Capsule Toy dispensers!

We had no expectations before going there and were pleasantly surprised. Just spend a few coins there, it”s actually quite fun!

WHERE TO STAY IN AKIHABARA?

Akihabara is a great place to stay in Tokyo. It”s quite central and you can easily reach most of the main sights in Tokyo from here.

Dormy inn Akihabara

What if you could combine a traditional Japanese Hotel with an outdoor onsen right, just a 5-minute walk to the Electric City of Akihabara? This is possible at the beautiful Dormy Inn Akihabara .

Expect a high-standing facility, super friendly staff, and comfortable cozy rooms!

Hotel Resol Akihabara

If you are looking at something more modern and still in the middle of Akihabara, then check out this hidden gem: Hotel Resol Akihabara.

One of our favorite places to stay in Akihabara!

Besides, the room rates come with a delicious breakfast!

The tourist hotel & cafe Akihabara

We may have saved the best for last! This is the fabulous Tourist Hotel & Cafe Akihabara . Not the most fancy name, granted! But look no further if you are in search of the best place to stay in Akihabara!

We love the design of this place, the service, the food, well pretty much everything!

READ: WHERE TO STAY IN TOKYO – BEST AREAS AND HOTELS

HOW TO GET TO AKIHABARA?

Akiba is located in the east of the central district of Chiyoda.

How to get to Akihabara station?

Three train lines operated by Japan Railway pass through this station. These are the Yamanote circular line and the Kehin-Tohoku and Chuo-Sobu lines. The Yamanote and Chuo lines will give you quick access to most tourist areas in Tokyo (and for visits outside Tokyo opt for the Bullet Train ).

From Shibuya : The easiest way to reach Akiba is to take the Yamanote line. The journey will take you half an hour. You can also decide to stop at Suehirocho Station on the Ginza Line. This means you don’t have to make any changes, and you’ll only be a few minutes walk from Electric Town.

From Shinjuku : The fastest way to reach Akihabara from Shinjuku is to take the JR Chuo-Sobu line which crosses the Japanese capital on a West-East axis. You can also take the JR Yamanote Line which circles most of Tokyo’s most popular areas.

From Tokyo Station : Akihabara is only 4 minutes from Tokyo Station via the JR Yamanote Line. From Harajuku : Harajuku Station is also on the Yamanote Line. Since these two stations are located on opposite sides of the Japanese capital circular line, it will take you about 35 minutes to complete this trip. ( READ: BEST THINGS TO SEE IN HARAJUKU )

From Asakusa : The Tsukuba Express line will allow you to connect Akihabara station with Asakusa station in less than fifteen minutes. You can also decide to stop at Suehirocho station on the Ginza line, for an equivalent transit time.

Always stay connected with e-SIM Card

Did you know that you don’t need to buy physical sim cards anymore? Simply purchase an e-Sim card before your trip to Japan. You can do so here.

FINAL THOUGHTS – IS AKIHABARA WORTH A VISIT?

We absolutely loved our visit to Akihabara during our stay in Tokyo!

Again, we highly recommend visiting at night. With all the lights everywhere the area is much more interesting!

Even if you are not a fan of the Otaku culture, it’s still worth a visit. Tokyo is so diverse and each neighborhood has something exciting to offer!

Akihabara, together with Harajuku , Shimokitazawa , Koenji and Monzen Nakacho are some of our favorite areas in Tokyo!

• 13 BEST DISTRICTS TO VISIT IN TOKYO
• 30 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN TOKYO
• WHERE TO STAY IN TOKYO – BEST AREAS AND HOTELS!
• 10 BEST THINGS TO SEE IN MONZEN-NAKACHO IN TOKYO
• TOP THINGS TO DO IN GINZA IN TOKYO
• 15 AWESOME THINGS TO SEE IN HARAJUKU
• FUN THINGS TO SEE IN SHINJUKU
• WHAT TO DO IN SHIMOKITAZAWA?
• BEST THINGS TO SEE IN KOENJI IN TOKYO
• EXPLORE KAGURAZAKA, THE LITTLE PARIS OF TOKYO
• DISCOVER TSUKIJI OUTER MARKET IN TOKYO
• 15 BEST THINGS TO SEE IN ASAKUSA (SENSO-JI)
• BEST THINGS TO SEE IN NIKKO NEAR TOKYO
• GUIDE FOR A VISIT TO NARAI-JUKU
• BEST THINGS TO SEE IN SHIRAKAWA-GO AND GOKAYAMA
• GREAT IDEAS FOR A DATE IN TOKYO

We are Hammer and Guillaume, a fun couple traveling the world. We will take you to some of the most amazing places on earth. Hammer is a yoga instructor and Guillaume a true water baby, enjoying all kinds of water sports. Follow-us to get the latest update about our travels.

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Things to Do in Akihabara: An Otaku’s Guide

• Akihabara:  Geek Culture, Maid Cafes, and Electronics Galore

Akihabara is well known as the electronics center of Japan. While chain electronics shops can be found all over Tokyo , Akihabara has the highest concentration of stores. It is where Japan’s electronic product companies test their products on the domestic market. With limited edition products and special offers, it’s possible to snatch up a bargain or even pick up the latest invention.

However, Akihabara has more to offer than electronics. The district is a hub of otaku (geek) culture, with stores selling games, manga (Japanese comics), and anime (Japan’s distinctive style of animation) goods.

Akihabara is also home to the maid cafe phenomenon. For the complete Akihabara experience, browse the electronics, pick up a souvenir or two from Kanda Myojin Shrine, and then relax in a themed cafe.

Shopping in Akihabara:  An Electronics Paradise

Akihabara crossfield and anime center, yodobashi camera mega store, where to shop: for the anime and manga fans, places to stay in akihabara, places to eat and drink in akihabara, is akihabara worth visiting, how to get there, insider’s tips, top destinations in tokyo, top attractions in tokyo.

You don’t have to look hard to find an electronics shop in Akihabara. From the moment you emerge from Akihabara Station, uniformed staff members of the larger stores press flyers full of the latest deals into your hands, urging you to visit their store.

Finding goods with English manuals or compatible items with non-Japanese electronics is difficult, though. Here are some stores that cater to foreign tourists.

Laox Akihabara: Main Store

A 2-minute walk from Akihabara Station’s Electronic Town Exit, the Laox Main store boasts a range of services for the foreign tourist, including multi-lingual staff, a tourist information center and offer duty-free shopping and foreign currency exchange machines.

Laox is a Japan-wide chain, with a wide variety of goods, including a selection of appliances designed for overseas use on the second floor. In addition to the main store, Laox has three smaller branches around Akihabara.

Opening Hours

• 10:00am – 7:00pm

Built in response to the Japanese Government’s intent to establish a global IT industry center in Akihabara, the Akihabara Crossfield consists of two high-rise buildings.

The Akihabara Daibiru building houses facilities for IT research and conferences.

The Akihabara UDX has more to offer visitors, with cafes, showrooms and event space.

It’s main claim to fame is the Akihabara Anime Center. Akihabara UDX is a short walk from Akihabara Station’s Electronic Town Exit.

Yodobashi Camera’s Akihabara branch is a MASSI shopping complex, with restaurants and entertainment options throughout the building—including a batting center on the 9th floor!

Duty-free shopping is available for purchases over 10,000 yen. Take your passport with you.

Yodobashi is open 9:30am – 10:00pm, with restaurants open 11:00am – 11:00pm

Sofmap has twelve stores around Akihabara, each specializing in a slightly different selection of products. Japan mostly uses PCs, but Sofmap stores have a range of Apple related goods. They also stock a selection of second-hand and used computers, games, and hardware.

This is a good choice for shoppers looking for a particular item who want the reassurance of buying from a reputable chain rather than an independent store. The main Sofmap store with the biggest selection of goods is a 4-minute walk from Akihabara Station’s Electronic Town Exit.

• 11:00am – 8:00pm

Akihabara Side Streets

Don’t be afraid to leave the main street and explore Akihabara’s side streets. The legendary Akihabara Radio Center filled with tiny stores specializing in a limited range of electronics closed in 2013. The only way to get an idea of what the electronic district was like at its peak is to step inside some of the smaller, more specialized shops.

Mandarake is a chain store that started as a retailer of doujinshi, fan-drawn comics featuring beloved characters from movies, games, and manga and anime series, and now sells a wide variety of second-hand goods.

For visitors wanting to complete a collection of anime or find doujinshi for a particular series, Mandarake is a must visit. Mandarake’s 8-story building has one of Tokyo’s widest selections of otaku goods at lower prices than its competitors. Make it your first stop, as you may save money by buying second-hand.

Mandarake is open 12:00pm – 8:00pm.

It’s a 5-minute walk from Akihabara Station’s Electronic Town Exit.

Animate (Girls Station Store)

Animate is another chain store, with floors stocked with new manga, anime and character goods. There are floors devoted to fans, with cosplay (the practice of dressing as a favorite character) items including uniforms and wigs, and art supplies catering to the doujinshi (self-published works) artist.

Animate sells doujinshi as well, but it is often more expensive and limited to recent runs featuring current series. Great if you are into the anime of the moment or a classic series that is still popular. However, this is bad if you’re a fan of older or less well-known series.

Animate Girls Station is 5-minutes from Akihabara Station’s Electronic Town Exit.

• 10:00am – 9:00pm

Kotobukiya is a conglomerate of smaller stores. Each floor has a different specialty. Stores on the first three floors sell goods relating to anime and manga , while the 4th floor has stores devoted to figurines of game characters and other non-anime/manga goods, CDs and DVDs. The 5th floor often has events going on.

Kotobukiya is 3 minutes from Akihabara Station’s Electronic Town Exit.

• 10:00-20:00 (10:00am – 8:00pm)

Acos specializes in cosplay goods, with a wider range of wigs, uniforms, and props, and a greater variety of prices, than those available at Animate.

Sizes are very limited, so foreign shoppers may find themselves only able to browse the clothing—but for the avid cos-player, even that is a learning experience (making the costume is half the fun anyway, right?).

Acos is a 4-minute walk from Akihabara Station.

• 11:00am – 9:30pm

Kanda Myojin Shrine

A Shinto shrine might seem an odd addition to this list, but Kanda Myojin Shrine has adapted to serve the needs of its modern visitors.

Kanda Myojin sells talismans directly marketed to Akihabara’s Electronic Town, with charms designed to protect electronic goods against harm. Kanda Myojin has adopted anime culture too.

Nozomi Tojo, a character in the Love Live! anime, was depicted as a Kanda Myojin Shrine maiden, and is now the official mascot.

Kanda Myojin is an 11-minute walk from Akihabara Station’s Electronic Town Exit, or a 5-minute walk from the JR Ochanomizu Station.

If you want to find some awesome places to stay in Akihabara, check out our “ Best Places to Stay Near Akihabara Station ” guide.

Maid cafes developed alongside Akihabara’s otaku culture, and the two are now inseparable.

There are dozens of cafes in Akihabara’s main streets and corners, and they range in atmosphere and quality. Avoid the seedier places.

There may be rules in place about photographing or not touching the maids. Be sure to follow these rules.

Maidreamin is a chain of maid cafes, with branches across Tokyo.

There are 3 in Akihabara, including the main store. Maid cafes offer personalized waitress service from a young woman dressed in an elaborate maid costume, who chats with customers and entertains them during their time at the cafe.

At Maidreamin, this takes the form of performing anime-themed songs and dances, food decorated in true kawaii (cute) fashion by your waitress, and the chance to take a photo together for an extra fee. The emphasis is on cute, with the waitresses playing up their youth and innocence, inviting customers to forget their worries and join them in some carefree fun.

Maidreamin maid cafe Main Store is located on the 6th floor of the Sumiyoshi Building, 8 minutes from Akihabara Station’s Electronic Town Exit.

Maidreamin – Akihabara Electric Town Exit (in front of Akihabara Station) store:

• Monday – Thursday: 11:30am – 11:00pm
• Friday: 11:30am – 5:00am
• Saturday, Sunday, and National Holidays: 10:30am – 11:00pm

For More Information

Maidreamin Website

Cure Maid Cafe

Cure Maid Cafe was the first permanent maid cafe. It has a slightly different atmosphere to other cafes, with less emphasis on cute, focusing more on evoking the atmosphere of the Victorian afternoon tea tradition.

The menu has a European flavor, and there is a wider range of teas available than usual in most maid cafes. Cure Maid Cafe is on the 6th floor of the Gee Store, a huge cosplay store 5-minutes from Akihabara Station’s Electronic Town Exit.

• Monday-Thursday: 11:00am – 8:00pm
• Friday & Saturday: 11:00am – 10:00pm
• Sunday: 11:00am – 7:00pm

Food services stop 1 hour before the scheduled closing times.

Drinks are served until 30 minutes before the scheduled closing times.

Cure Maid Cafe Website (Japanese only)

Gundam Cafe

The officially licensed Gundam Cafe caters to a different style of otaku. Gundam is an iconic anime series defined by huge robot suits, controlled by pilots and used to fight epic space wars. The series is not only incredibly long-lived, but it has a surprising fan base among Japanese people, many of whom grew up watching the series.

The Gundam Cafe, recognizable by the large model Gundam outside, offers food themed around characters and mecha (the giant robots). They have an English menu for foreign visitors.

The Gundam Cafe is a 2-minute walk from the Electronic Town Exit of Akihabara Station.

• 10:00am – 10:30pm

Last order for food service is 9:30pm and drink service ends at 10:00pm

Gundam Cafe Website

AKB48 is an all-girl pop group formed around the idea of idols you can meet. The group’s founder opened a theater in Akihabara for fans to see the AKB48 members perform live every day and interact with them in person. Although the group performs daily, getting tickets to these performances is a matter of luck as they are distributed by a lottery.

If you are unlucky, then the AKB48 Cafe is a good alternative. The cafe features the music of AKB48, videos of the members performing their songs, a menu inspired by prominent member’s favorite dishes, and a store selling official AKB48 merchandise.

The cafe is located right next to Akihabara Station’s Electronic Town Exit.

• Monday-Thursday: 11:00apm – 10:00pm
• Friday and the day before a national holiday:  11:00am – 11:00pm
• Saturday:  10:00am – 11:00pm
• Sunday and public holidays:  10:00am – 10:00pm

AKB48 Cafe Website

Absolutely. For electronics and anime and manga fans, you could easily spend days in Akihabara.

For everyone else, a trip to Japan wouldn’t be complete without experience a taste of Japan’s geeky side, and there is no better place than Akihabara for that. Make sure to balance out the consumerism with a trip to Kanda Myojin, considered one of Tokyo’s best shrines.

Akihabara is a minor transport hub in Tokyo, with Akihabara station served by three JR Lines (Keihin-Tohoku, Chuo/Sobu, and Yamanote) as well as the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line, and the Metropolitan Intercity Railway’s Tsukuba Express.

From Tokyo Station using the JR lines, Akihabara is a 4-minute ride, costing 140 yen.

Traveling with family? You might want to leave the folks behind for this visit. Unless everyone in your group is either a big fan of Japanese games, anime, manga or are electronics buffs, you may find your companions bored and ready to leave before you’ve explored all that Akihabara has to offer.

Some parts of Akihabara’s otaku scene are seedy, with the maid cafes, in particular, attracting the creepier varieties of people. Your mother or sister may find maid cafes uncomfortable. Yes, its a uniquely Japanese experience, but it’s worth talking with your traveling companions ahead of time to make sure you’re all on the same page before making plans.

Also, keep in mind that there are often strict rules about photographing maids, and those rules are in place to ensure the safety and privacy of the maids. Ask permission before taking a photo, and respect any rules against it. Maid cafes that prohibit taking photos of the maids are actually a good sign as it indicates that the girls are looked after and not exploited.

Sensoji Temple

Tokyo Skytree & Solamachi

Imperial Palace Gardens

Tokyo Station

Tsukiji Fish Market

Watching Sumo in Tokyo

Tokyo Baseball Games

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Those Who Wandr

10 Things to Do in Akihabara, Tokyo | Akihabara Guide & Map

秋葉原 • 東京, akihabara guide & map.

This post contains affiliate links, read our full disclosure .

こんにちは (KONNICHIWA) !  

Whether it’s your first or fourth time visiting Tokyo , Akihabara is a must visit neighborhood conveniently located in central Tokyo. There are plenty of things to do in Akihabara to keep you entertained. Just take a stroll along Akihabara’s main street, Chuo Dori, and you’ll easily see why Akihabara is nicknamed “Electric Town” when you lay your eyes on all the multi-level electronic stores. Aside from electronic goods, Akihabara is also known for being the hub for otaku culture . 

Otaku  is a Japanese term that describes someone who is passionate, or even obsessed, with some aspect of pop culture. Akihabara is home to countless stores that specialize in anime and hobby goods. You can expect to find plenty of figurine and characters goods as well as supplies to supplement all sorts of hobbies and interests. 

Akihabara is a great neighborhood to call home for your Tokyo trip, we stayed at the Akihabara Washington Hotel  for two nights so we could be close to the action. With so much to see and do, Akihabara is one of Tokyo’s most lively entertainment and retail districts that deserves a visit. 

Check out our other Tokyo area guides: Akihabara | Asakusa | Harajuku | Mount Takao | Shibuya

Related: Useful Japanese Phrases for Travelers

Things to Do in Akihabara

1. take in electric town.

Akihabara is appropriately nicknamed “Electric City” for the amount of shops in the area that sell electronic goods . If you like to keep up with the latest technology and check out new gadgets, you and Akihabara were meant to be.

2. Get a taiyaki shaped like Magikarp 

If you’re a fan of the taiyaki, you’re in luck! We found a shop that sold the popular street snack in the shape of the infamous Pokemon, Magikarp. Taiyaki are simple fish shaped cakes often filled with a bean paste or custard that make for a great quick snack. 

KURIKOAN Address:  1-15-1 Sotokanda, Chiyoda 101-0021, Tokyo Hours: Open Daily 10AM – 9PM

3. Check out a maid cafe 

Maid cafes have exploded in popularity, offering an experience that’s unique to Tokyo. Most maid cafes charge a cover fee but we think it’s worth checking out at least once. In addition to the cover fee, you’re required purchase a food or drink item as well, which is cutely presented but mediocre quality (by Tokyo standards).

MAIDREAMIN Address:  3-16-17 Sotokanda, 6F Sumiyoshi Bldg, Chiyoda 101-0021, Tokyo Hours: Open Daily 11:30AM – 11PM (10:30AM on Sat, Sun)

4. Shop for anime and hobby goods along Chuo Dori

Walk out of Akihabara Station and you’ll find Chuo Dori , Akihabara’s main street located to the west. Along the main street and back streets, there are an endless number of shops that sell all sorts of anime and hobby goods .

5. Visit one of the many SEGA arcade buildings

A number of SEGA arcade buildings dot the Akihabara landscape , inside you’ll find all sorts of video games starting at just ¥100 . Try your luck at one of the UFO (crane) games to win an anime figurine or adorable plush. 

6. Have lunch or dinner at Go! Go! Curry

If you’re walking along Chuo Dori, keep your eyes peeled for Go! Go! Curry ‘s bright yellow sign with its large gorilla mascot. Place your order at the vending machine, wait to be seated, and what seems like seconds after, a glorious tray of curry and rice will arrive that won’t disappoint! 

GO! GO! CURRY Address:  1-11-7 Sotokanda, Chiyoda 101-0021, Tokyo Hours: Open Daily 10:55AM to 9:55PM

7. Check out a gachapon hall

Gachapon are Japanese toys sold randomly in capsule form from vending machines. They are quite the phenomenon in Japan and popular across all ages . In Akihabara there are a number of stores with walls lined with gachapon machines called gachapon halls . Each machine is different, choose one that catches your eye, good luck! 

GACHAPON HALL Address:  3-15-5 Sotokanda, Chiyoda 104-0061, Tokyo Hours: Open Daily 11AM – 8PM (10PM on Fri, Sat and 7PM on Sun)

8. Shop for electronics at Yodobashi Camera

Located on the east side of Akihabara Station, Yodobashi Camera is Akihabara’s only electronic mega store . This place is a one stop shop for all of your electronic needs.

YODOBASHI CAMERA MULTIMEDIA AKIBA Address:  1-1 Kandahanaokacho, Chiyoda 101-0028, Tokyo Hours: Open Daily 9:30AM – 10PM

9. Grab a cheese tart from Pablo

Need a break after exploring all these stores? Head to Pablo mini located outside the west JR entrance of Akihabara Station for an out of this world cheese tart . Seriously, out of this world. Can’t go wrong with the original or matcha flavored cheese tart. 

PABLO MINI Address:  1-15-8 Sotokanda, Chiyoda 101-0021, Tokyo Hours: Open Daily 11AM – 9PM

10. Visit the Gundam Cafe or AKB48 Cafe and Shop

The Gundam Cafe based on the popular robot series and AKB48 Cafe and Shop based on the popular Japanese idol girl group are two very different themed cafes located next to each another. They are two of Akihabara’s most popular themed cafes located north of Akihabara Station, worth checking out if you’re fans of either theme. 

GUNDAM CAFE Address:  1-1 Kandahanaokacho, Chiyoda 101-0028, Tokyo Hours: Open Daily 10AM – 10:30PM

AKB48 CAFE & SHOP Address:  1-1 Kandahanaokacho, Chiyoda 101-0028, Tokyo Hours: Open Daily 11AM – 10PM (10AM on Sat, Sun and 11PM on Fri, Sat)

Do you need a place to stay in Akihabara? 

We stayed at the Akihabara Washington Hotel for two nights and highly recommend it! The hotel was located right beside Akihabara Station and less than a 5 minute walk from Chuo Dori, Akihabara’s main street, where you can find most of the places on this things to do list! 

Oh, and if you’re a fan of model trains, they have a room made for you! It comes with a fully functioning train set modeled after Tokyo and a beautiful view facing the south of Akihabara. 

AKIHABARA WASHINGTON HOTEL Address:  1-8-3 Kanda Sakumacho, Chiyoda, Tokyo 101-0025, Japan Phone:  +81 3-3255-3311 Check in:  2PM Check out:  11AM For more information, visit the official website .

>> Related: Akihabara Washington Hotel Review <<

Map of things to do in akihabara, which of these things would you do in akihabara, comment below.

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11 Comments

Go Go Curry sounds like such a fun concept! Perfect for impatient people! And Gachapon sounds like a fun experience for people of all ages! My 3.5yo would love it!

My husband and kids would go crazy shopping for electronics in Akihabara. I would enjoy the model train museum. The cheese tart sounds great too.

I would love to indulge in 2,4 ,7.. While my kiddo will not leave the toy vending machine, I will not leave the hobby idea & anime place

Fascinating. I am planning to visit next year.

I have never been to Japan but it appeals to me as a destination. I would love to try the curries and other Japanese food. I hope they do have a vegetarian or vegan version though. Akihabara sure is offbeat!

An electric town!! Woah! That sounds interesting. Never heard of this place before but it is intriguing me now. The fish shaped cake looks yummy; so does the dinner at Go Go Curry. The lined up toys shop would be a favorite destination for the kids.

Akihabara looks like a fun part of Tokyo, being from the 80’s I love the neon Sega sign! I’d have a field day in a Sega arcade. The maid cafes sound like a fun experience too!

I’m a huge fan of Japanese curry, so the Go Go Curry will be the first place I would visit in the area. What an interesting blend of activities in one single place. Akihabara not is a place for Electronic one can spend good amount of time exploring all the unique places in the area. The Maid Cafe sounds interesting and the dessert served there looks delicious!

I dint know Akihabara is nicknamed "Electric Town". It looks so vibrant. Electronics shopping would be so much fun here. And food looks interesting too.

Thanks so much for this post! I’m going to head to this area and see some of the things you mentioned before Mario Karting – which you should put on this list for sure! – Sarah http://www.cerealsarah.com

Thanks! There are so many helpful articles online nowadays. This helps to organize my time and what I can do there, and this one guide me on how to get to Akihabara.

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Hidden Gems: Must-Visit Anime Stores In Akihabara

Published: August 24, 2024

by Karoline Coen

Akihabara, often called the anime capital of the world, is a paradise for fans. This bustling district in Tokyo offers countless anime stores filled with rare collectibles, manga, and merchandise. Whether you're hunting for limited-edition figures or just want to soak in the vibrant atmosphere, Akihabara has something for everyone. From multi-story shops like Mandarake to niche stores specializing in specific series, the variety is endless. Even if you're new to the world of anime , exploring these stores can be an exciting adventure. Ready to dive into the heart of anime culture ? Let's check out some must-visit spots in Akihabara!

Hidden Gems: Must-Visit Anime Stores in Akihabara

Akihabara, also known as Akiba, is a paradise for anime enthusiasts. This bustling district in Tokyo is packed with shops selling everything from manga to collectibles. Let's dive into some of the best anime stores you shouldn't miss.

Iconic Anime Stores

These stores are well-known and beloved by fans worldwide. They offer a wide range of products, from the latest releases to rare finds.

Mandarake Complex

• This eight-story building is a treasure chest for anime lovers. You'll find everything from vintage manga to rare action figures. Each floor specializes in different items, making it a one-stop shop for all your anime needs.

Animate Akihabara

• One of the largest anime chains in Japan , Animate offers a vast selection of manga, DVDs, and merchandise. The Akihabara branch often hosts special events and signings with popular voice actors and creators.

Gamers Akihabara

• Known for its extensive collection of manga, light novels, and anime DVDs, Gamers is a must-visit. They also have a great selection of character goods and limited-edition items.

Hidden Treasures

These lesser-known stores offer unique finds and a more intimate shopping experience. Perfect for those looking to discover something special.

• Liberty has multiple branches in Akihabara, each focusing on different types of merchandise. From second-hand figures to rare trading cards, this store is a goldmine for collectors.

Akiba Culture Zone

• This multi-floor shopping complex houses several smaller stores, each with its own specialty. Whether you're looking for cosplay outfits or niche doujinshi, you'll find it here.

K-Books Akihabara

• Specializing in used books and merchandise, K-Books offers a wide range of products at reasonable prices. It's a great place to find out-of-print manga and rare collectibles.

Specialty Shops

For those with specific interests, these stores focus on particular genres or types of merchandise. Ideal for fans with niche tastes.

Radio Kaikan

• This iconic building is home to numerous shops selling everything from model kits to retro video games. It's a haven for fans of mecha and classic anime series.
• A paradise for doujinshi fans, Toranoana offers a vast selection of self-published works. They also carry a wide range of manga and light novels, making it a great spot for avid readers.

Volks Akihabara Hobby Paradise

• Specializing in model kits and figures, Volks is perfect for those who love to build and customize. They also offer workshops and events for hobbyists.

Unique Experiences

These stores offer more than just shopping; they provide unique experiences that make your visit unforgettable.

Akihabara Gachapon Kaikan

• This store is dedicated to gachapon, the popular capsule toy machines. With hundreds of machines to choose from, you'll find a wide variety of mini-figures and collectibles.

Super Potato

• A retro gaming paradise, Super Potato offers a nostalgic trip back to the golden age of video games. Alongside classic games and consoles, they also have a selection of anime merchandise.

Akiba Asobit City

• This multi-floor store offers a mix of anime, gaming, and hobby items. They also have a dedicated floor for airsoft guns and accessories, providing a unique blend of interests.

Akihabara is a dream destination for anime fans, offering a mix of iconic stores, hidden treasures, specialty shops, and unique experiences. Each store has its own charm, making every visit an adventure.

Discover Akihabara's Anime Treasures

Akihabara is a paradise for anime lovers. Stores like Mandarake , Animate , and Radio Kaikan offer a wide range of manga , figures , and merchandise . Each shop has its unique charm, making it easy to spend hours exploring. Mandarake is perfect for rare finds, while Animate is great for new releases. Radio Kaikan has a bit of everything, from electronics to collectibles . Don't miss out on smaller shops like Liberty and Akiba Culture Zone for hidden treasures. Visiting these stores gives a true taste of Akihabara's vibrant anime culture . Whether you're a seasoned collector or a casual fan, there's something for everyone. So, grab your shopping bag and dive into the world of anime in Akihabara. You won't regret it!

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25 Best Things to Do in St Pete Beach [Local Review]

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Table of Contents

Looking for things to do in St Pete Beach, Florida? As a local expert, who knows this area extremely well, I’m sharing my favorite places to make the most of your St Pete Beach vacation.

This article will cover the top things to do, restaurants, bars, and hidden gems which make St Pete Beach my favorite local beach town.

Where is St Pete Beach Located?

St Pete Beach is a buzzing beach town with a blend of locals and visitors, yet it still has a laid-back vibe. It is located off 1-275 just west of downtown St Petersburg, FL, in Pinellas County.

Below I’ve provided an adjustable Google map so you can easily find your way around.

St Pete Beach is approximately 25 miles from Tampa International Airport on 1-275. Depending on traffic, it’s roughly a 35-minute drive.

St Pete-Clearwater International Airport is closer in proximity at 19 miles away, but it tends to have less carriers. Allegiant Air is the primary option that offers cheap flights to Pinellas County.

What’s to Love About St Pete Beach?

St Pete Beach is known for its sunny days, pristine white sandy beaches, and clear blue waters. It is no wonder why it was ranked the #1 Beach in the US by TripAdvisor in 2021 !

Besides the fact that it’s right on the Gulf of Mexico and Boca Ciega Bay, it is home to the gorgeous pink palace (better known as The Don CeSar ), a 5-star historic hotel with panoramic water views.

Even if you don’t stay at the iconic luxury hotel, there are plenty of fantastic hotels in St Pete Beach for all budgets , including pet-friendly hotels .

So now that we have the basics out of the way let’s get started with the top must-see St Pete Beach things to do!

St Pete Beach Quick Summary & Comparison

The Best Things to Do in St Pete Beach, FL

Spend Time at St Pete Beach

Located on a barrier island, the long sandy coastline provides an ideal place to enjoy endless water activities, including kayaking, parasailing, or other recreational activities. You could literally spend days here and still miss some of the fun at the beach!

There are lounge chairs, paddleboards, and numerous other things you can rent right at the beach. Gone are the days when you are forced to pack a ton of equipment!

🌴 Pro Tip: Two of my favorite places to spend time are Upham Beach Park and Pass-a-Grille Beach . 👙

Upham Beach Park

Upham Beach Park is an attractive location for spending a stunning summer day with friends. A white sandy beach surrounded by beautiful dunes offers a great spot to surf and watch dolphins.

Invite family members to swim, surf, play volleyball, and relax at the beach! It is the most convenient beach spot near Corey Avenue for delicious restaurants, hotels , shops, and more fun!

Upham Beach Park has many options for beach chairs , cabanas, and other rentals available. They even have a free library of beach toys for the kids to use. There are public restrooms here, and the beach is dog-friendly.

Check out my Upham Beach Park article to learn about the secret garden and more local tips!

Snorkeling at Egmont Key State Park

Egmont Key State Park is a secluded private island only accessible by boat. Since there’s no admission fee (only transportation cost), snorkeling at Egmont Key State Park is one of the best things to do in St Pete Beach for FREE!

The blue-green water is shallow and clear at Egmont Key, so it’s easy to see the beautiful shells and fish swimming around you. Keep your eyes open for old structures that have since been submerged into the Gulf of Mexico. You can also see (and we often do) manatees, dolphins, and other marine life while snorkeling around this island.

Take a break from snorkeling and see some of the island by walking the nature trail. The brick paths will lead you to several structures and a lighthouse that are historic ruins of Fort Dade that date back to 1858.

To stay safe, make sure the current is calm with good weather. Egmont Key State Park is a distance by boat and you don’t want to be out there in a storm.

Bring your own snorkel gear from home to save money. This island gets incredibly hot in the summertime. You’ll definitely want to plan ahead with skin protection and plenty of drinking water and snacks. There are no stores or restrooms on this remote island.

If you prefer to go on a boat tour, there are plenty of options such as Island Ferry of St Pete Beach .

🐶 Read Next: 12 Best Pet Friendly Hotels in St Pete Beach

Day Trip to Fort De Soto Park

Just a short drive from St Pete Beach is a string of islands, Fort De Soto was built on Mullet Key under the direction of Robert E. Lee. It is now largely known for having some of the best natural beaches, boating, fishing, and wildlife with over 1,100 acres to explore.

There are miles of paved trails, camping and picnic spots, fishing piers, ferry rides to Egmont State Park and Shell Key, and a dog area. Of course, you can’t leave without seeing the old fort and museum!

Equipment rentals are available in the park for kayaks or canoes, paddle boards, and bikes. This makes it convenient to explore. However, if you pack your own equipment, this day trip costs only $5 per vehicle!

Ferry to Shell Key

Shell Key Preserve is located on 1,800+ acres of undeveloped land. It is a popular place for fishing and boating and a bird sanctuary. Since the island is uninhabited, it is one of the best free things to do in St Pete Beach.

Shell Key is only accessible by boat, and the ferry from Fort De Soto and Pass-a-Grille Beach comes here for day trips. It is also a popular place for kayaking, boating, and shelling.

Pro Tip: This is a remote island with no food or restrooms. Plan accordingly to make the trip more desirable.

St Pete Beach Dolphin Tours

The Dolphin Racer Tour is a super fun experience to see bottlenose dolphins and other wildlife! Adults and kids get a kick out of zooming around on a speedboat.

This tour launches from South Pasadena, just a short drive away from St. Pete Beach.

The Dolphin Racer Tour also provides an informative and educational guide about the area as you jet around the Gulf of Mexico.

• Address: 3400 Pasadena Ave S, South Pasadena, Florida 33707
• More information: Dolphin Racer Tour

Florida Orange Groves Winery

If you love sangria, slushy drinks, or specialty-flavored wines you will want to check out the Florida Orange Groves Winery . They offer complimentary wine tasting to customers.

One of their best award-winning wines is the Hurricane Class 5 . This white sangria is a blend of their popular tropical wines made from pineapple, passion fruit, watermelon, key lime, and mango.

The Florida Orange Groves Winery has a nice gift shop with a variety of items for purchase. When looking for indoor things to do in St Pete Beach, this is one of top local picks.

Pro Tip: If you like fish spread, then you must stop at Ted Peters Famous Smoked Fish nearby.

Fishing Charters from St Pete Beach

The Gulf of Mexico is known for world-class fishing with multiple charter companies to choose from in St Pete Beach. The charter boat, Miss Pass A Grille awaits your arrival from the historic Merry Pier.

While at the unpretentious Merry Pier, check out the local fresh seafood and fishing store. Here you can rent or purchase fishing rods and other fishing equipment.

• Address: 801 Pass a Grille Way, St Pete Beach, Florida 33706
• Phone: (727) 360-1400
• Website: Merry Pier

🍾 Read Next: The Best St Pete Beach Bars & Nightlife

Corey Avenue Shopping District

Looking for souvenirs? Some of the best shopping is located in the Corey Avenue Shopping District. These locally owned and operated shops have something for everyone.

In addition to shopping at all the cute boutiques, you can enjoy restaurants, gourmet food, and chocolate shops, plus a pet store.

Corey Avenue Sunday Market

Pinellas County has an excellent variety of unique markets and locally sourced products. Here in St Pete Beach, Corey Avenue Sunday Market is worth a visit. It occurs every Sunday year-round. Come and check out 70+ street vendors selling handmade crafts, baked goods, while listening to live music!

The market supports locals who sell various homemade items, plants, ready-to-eat bites, handcrafts, fair trade products, and more. Come join this lively morning event, and then eat a delicious brunch at one of the many area restaurants nearby on Corey Avenue.

• Sunday Market Hours : October through May 10 am-2 pm; June through Sept 9 am-1 pm
• Address: Corey Avenue & Blind Pass Road, St Pete Beach, Florida 33706

Gulf Beaches Historical Museum + More!

Gulf Beaches Historical Museum houses many interesting facts and stories. Originally it was a church built in 1917 and later was transformed into a museum. While it is a small museum, it contains key artifacts, newspapers, postcards, and history related to Pass-a-Grille.

• Hours: Friday – Saturday 10 am – 4 pm; Sunday 1 pm – 4 pm.
• Tickets: FREE (Donations are accepted)
• Website: Gulf Beaches Historical Museum

Visit World-Class Museums in St. Petersburg

Whether you love history, art, or music—there’s a museum you’ll love in St. Petersburg!

There are several world-class museums, and visiting them is one of the best things to do in St Pete Beach (since it is just a short drive away). One of the most famous is the beautiful Dali Museum.

Check out my best museums in St Petersburg article for personal favorites, including the Dali Museum and how to get FREE tickets.

Relax at the Don CeSar Spa

Spa Oceana is an impressive 11,000 square feet of relaxation. You can unwind at the pool or in one of their 16 treatment rooms. It has a stunning rooftop terrace view of the Gulf of Mexico.

The Don CeSar Spa also includes whirlpool spas, aroma-infused steam rooms, and private access to the Whisper Lounge. This award-winning spa has repeatedly been ranked as the best in St Petersburg .

You must also fully explore The Don CeSar restaurant options, ice cream shop, and shopping in this all-inclusive beach resort.

🌴 Read Next: The 14 Best Hotels in St Pete Beach + Expert Tips

St Pete Beach Parks

Another of our favorite free things to do in St Pete Beach is to spend time in the parks. St Pete Beach has multiple locations within just a mile or two! Two of our favorite parks are Colonel Michael J. Horan Park and Lazarillo Park.

Colonel Michael J. Horan Park

Colonel Michael J. Horan Park is located near the Corey Avenue shopping district. There is a waterfront playground, covered picnic area, barbecue grill, and restrooms with free parking.

The St Pete Beach Community Center is also on the property which has a variety of community classes, summer camps, gym and art space, and more.

Lazarillo Park

Lazarillo Park is the neighborhood park across from the Don CeSar . It is one of the quietest and nicest parks in St Pete Beach. It has tennis courts, walking paths, a kids’ playground, and covered picnic space.

Read Next: The Best & Fun Kids Things to Do in Tampa Bay

Enjoy Pass-a-Grille Beach Sunset Views

Pass-a-Grille is a beach located on the southern tip of St. Pete Beach. It has delicious restaurants with spectacular gulf views. Both residents and tourists love this place, as it’s tranquil and calm.

Paradise Grille

A Pass-a-Grille local tradition is the nightly ringing of the bell that celebrates peace, relationships, and more. Grab a drink at the Paradise Grille. Make sure to get a good seat, you won’t want to miss these sunset views. Often Paradise Grille has live music which adds to the ambiance and they also serve food.

Rent a Bike & Ride Around Pass-a-Grille Beach

Another fun thing to do in St Pete Beach is the ride around Pass-a-Grille. It’s one of the most loved activities among locals.

During your ride, you’ll ride along the beach next to the Gulf of Mexico. You can take in the view of the beautiful coastline. It’s a ride worth bragging about once you get back home.

Read Next: 23 Amazing Things to Do in Pass-a-Grille Beach

Sharkey’s Led Illuminated Night Tour

If you are looking for something different, this is it! There just aren’t a lot of opportunities to do something this unique.

Glass Bottom Kayak Night Tour is a super fun experience that will be one of the most memorable parts of your vacation. The water is very clear, so you will see hundreds of catfish that follow the boats. You can also see bottlenose dolphins, shrimp, starfish, crabs, and other forms of wildlife.

Two can go in one kayak, and if you have a 3rd person in your party, they will be in their own kayak. The outgoing tide may give you more of a workout, but it isn’t unmanageable for most skill levels. Remember that you may get slightly wet from water falling from the paddle.

Bring your camera, the scenery on the night kayaking trip is exceedingly breathtaking!

Pro Tip: Carry a towel in your car for when you finish the experience. You’ll appreciate the option, especially if you get wet. 💧

Pass-a-Grille Beach Art Mart

Year-round on Saturday and Sunday, Pass-a-Grille Beach holds an Art Mart at the beach (weather permitting). Come see fine art and handmade crafts by local artists from 9 am to 2 pm. It is located next to Paradise Grille .

Suntan Art Center

Not able to attend the Art Mart? No worries, the affiliated Suntan Art Center is located next to the Don CeSar Hotel in the Don Vista Building. Help support the local economy by purchasing gorgeous handmade souvenirs at this quaint art gallery. Everything is original, plus they have a variety of pieces from watercolor, oil paintings, jewelry, sculptures, glasswork, and more.

Parking is FREE for those visiting the gallery. They offer a variety of art classes and workshops too.

• Address: 3300 Gulf Blvd, St Pete Beach, Florida 33706
• Website: Suntan Art Center

St Pete Beach Restaurants

There are lots of places to eat in St Pete Beach, and it wouldn’t be a tasty itinerary if we didn’t shine a spotlight on a few of our favorite foodie spots. New cafes and restaurants always pop up, but several deserve noteworthy recognition.

Level 11 Elevated Bar & Lounge

While in St Pete Beach, you may want to grab a drink or appetizers at Level 11 Elevated Bar & Lounge . It has truly one of the best waterfront views you will find in all of Tampa Bay.

Buoys Waterfront Bar & Grill

As a local, I tend to prefer less touristy options that are hidden gems in the area. Buoys Waterfront is one of my newest favorites for grouper or lobster roll dinner. Parking can be challenging, but they have a parking lot next door. Sit outside on their balcony overlooking Sunset Beach.

RumFish Grill

RumFish Grill is a popular choice amongst tourists for lunch or dinner. Located at the RumFish Beach Resort by Tradewinds, you can get a table next to their 33,500-gallon aquarium while enjoying nightly entertainment.

Shrimpy’s Waterfront

Shrimpy’s Waterfront in St Pete Beach is closer to Treasure Island. Sitting in a shopping strip mall on the water, you could easily pass by this restaurant and not know it’s there. When at Shrimpy’s, get the Jambalaya!

1200 Chophouse

Our long-time favorite steakhouse in St Pete Beach is 1200 Chophouse. This small restaurant tends to stay busy. We either plan to come early or wait until the dinner rush ends since it is first come, first served. You truly can’t go wrong with any of the steaks, as well as the sea bass.

St Pete Beach Ice Cream & Dessert

CocoAddiction

Calling all dessert lovers, CocoAddiction is one of the best hidden gems of St. Pete Beach. Here, you could almost forget the beach with all the delicious delicacies they have to offer.

CocoAddiction specializes in handmade artisan chocolates, macarons, cakes, pastries, and more! In addition to the melt-in-your-mouth desserts, they have an outstanding coffeehouse that serves Made Coffee.

Larry’s Olde Fashioned Ice Cream & Gelato

A hot day at the beach and ice cream pair so well together! Larry’s Olde Fashioned Ice Cream & Gelato is a favorite spot in St. Pete Beach and a local tradition since 1984. They have over 100 original flavors to choose from and also serve frozen custard, frozen yogurt, and more!

Don’t be surprised to find a line, especially in the evenings. Larry’s also serves savory bites, including hamburgers, hot dogs, pretzels, and other options.

Top Destinations in Pinellas County

While you could spend your days entirely on the beach, there are several top destinations you may want to add to your vacation plans.

John’s Pass Village

John’s Pass Village & Boardwalk is often considered the top attraction in Pinellas County. This entertainment complex offers some of the best sightseeing tours to people who travel from all over the globe. There are many shops, bars, and restaurants, as well as several water sports equipment rentals available to hire.

Clearwater Marine Aquarium

Clearwater Marine Aquarium is a not-for-profit organization in Clearwater (just north of St Pete Beach). It is dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of suffering marine animals.

The aquarium gained worldwide recognition for being where the bottlenose Dolphin, “Winter,” lived. Winter was the main character in the 2009 book Winter’s Tale and, more notably, became the 2011 film Dolphin Tale . If you want to see dolphins up close, you’ll want to visit Clearwater Marine Aquarium.

St Pete Pier

Located in the heart of downtown, St Pete Pier is among the top kid’s things to do in St Petersburg. There are museums, fishing areas, a children’s playground, a water splash pad, and multiple restaurants.

Depending on your interest level, you can see it in less than an hour or spend most of the day. It is FREE to visit and very easy to access since it has its own metered parking area. A trolley is also available from the parking lot to the end of the Pier with drop-off locations.

St Pete Beach Scooter Rental & Golf Cart Fun

In recent years, golf carts and scooter rentals have become a popular pastime in St Pete Beach. It is a convenient way to see the area without the headache of parking a car. You can hop in your beachfront buggy and see the sights.

They are licensed for road use to see neighboring beach towns or attractions like John’s Pass Village, Treasure Island, etc. Play the scavenger hunt game and see sights you never knew even existed!

Parking at St Pete Beach

While parking can be a challenge during peak times, we have always found a spot. It is best to come earlier in the day for more ideal parking conditions. Most of the parking spaces are metered parking and payable via the ParkMobile App.

Park Smart SPB

The city of St Pete Beach installed Park Smart sensors in the public metered parking areas of Pass-a-Grille. You can download the Park Smart SPB App to see parking availability and avoid driving around for spots.

Freebee Shuttle

Freebee Shuttle is a door-to-door, on-demand transportation service, brought to you by the city of St. Pete Beach. While on the app, check out local deals and offers to save on local attractions.

🌴 Pro Tip: Never worry about parking far away in St Pete Beach! Take a FREE ride with the Freebee Shuttle by downloading the Freebee App .

Final Thoughts

Well, there you have it, my current top things to do in St Pete Beach! As a local, I am constantly updating this list. So, don’t forget to check back on my latest adventures.

Also, if you would like more information for your trip planning, please make sure to leave a note in the comments!

FAQs on Things to Do in St Pete Beach

What is there to do in st pete beach.

If being at the #1 Beach in the US by TripAdvisor in 2021 is not enough for you, we have 25+ more exciting things to do in St Pete Beach in this article. Read further to fully explore all this amazing city has to offer!

Why is the city called St. Pete Beach instead of St. Petersburg Beach?

The City of St. Pete Beach incorporated several beach towns back in 1957 which included Pass-a-Grille, Don CeSar, Belle Vista, and St. Petersburg Beach. They united under the name St. Petersburg Beach.

In 1994, the citizens voted to shorten the name to St. Pete Beach to lessen the confusion with the City of St. Petersburg, located on the mainland to the east. City of St Pete Beach .

Is St Pete Beach worth visiting?

Yes, absolutely! St. Pete Beach has been selected by TripAdvisor as the top beach in the US in 2021. It has beat beaches in Hawaii and California and some other famous beaches in Pinellas County.

Which is a better beach, Clearwater or St Pete?

We think there is something to love in both places, but it truly depends on your tastes! Check out our recent article that goes over how to pick between St Pete Beach vs Clearwater Beach .

Does St Pete Beach have a boardwalk?

No, but there is one nearby in Madeira Beach. John’s Pass Village and Boardwalk is a popular outdoor shopping destination with more than 60+ shops. You can also enjoy dolphin boat tours, pirate boats, and live music at one of the local restaurants. Here is our list of best things to do in Madeira Beach, Florida .

Did You Find This Post Helpful? Share It!

If so, I would love to hear about your Florida travel adventures! You can follow me on Instagram , and tag your images to @erinstraveltips and hashtag #erinstraveltips. I look forward to seeing you there!

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6 thoughts on “25 Best Things to Do in St Pete Beach [Local Review]”

Definitely a comprehensive guide to St Pete Beach! I’d love to try the snorkeling–and I agree, it’s a great tip to bring your own equipment. My partner and I bought snorkels and starting taking them on beach trips–it’s made a huge difference and probably saved some money by now. The best part is that you can control whose mouths have been on your snorkel before you had a chance to use it!

I’d definitely try snorkeling at Egmont Key State Park!

Such a detailed guide to St Pete Beach for first-time visitors! I’d definitely rent a scooter, ride around and take photos of all the beautiful sights here.

I have only been to Florida once, and that was to Orlando for a wedding, but St Petersburg and the adjacent islands have always intrigued me. So much to do ! I would love the snorkelling and the trails. Would also love to check out some of their museums

I’m overdue for a trip to the west coast of Florida. Saving this for later to make sure I hit all the good spots.

Wow! So many things to do in st Pete beach. Thank you for sharing.

For someone who lives in Georgia and has spent a fair amount of time in FL, I’ve never been to St. Pete’s Beach. After reading your post, I’m so intrigued and definitely think I’ve been missing out. Love that there is so much to do for families and couples. Thanks for sharing all these ideas. Adding it to my FL list now.

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© 2024 Erin's Travel Tips

32 Best & Fun Things To Do In St. Petersburg (Florida)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Last updated: August 13, 2024

St. Petersburg, also known as The Sunshine City, is a beautiful city in the Tampa Bay Area.

Known as a retirement destination for wealthy seniors, a funky site of vibrant modern art and culture, and a haven of white beaches and blue waters, there’s little that this populous city can’t do.

The city has even won a Guinness World Record after experiencing 768 consecutive sunshine-filled days from 1967 to 1969!

Visitors to St. Petersburg will be wowed first and foremost by its impressive arts scene.

Trendy art museums and showcases make up many of the local attractions, but so do gorgeous natural attractions, hands-on educational museums, and live entertainment destinations.

All in all, you’re rather spoiled for choice, and there are even more things to enjoy in the city’s immediate vicinity for day trips and short getaways.

Here are the 32 best and fun things to do in St. Petersburg, Florida.

Table of Contents

1. Salvador Dalí Museum

Salvador Dalí Museum

The Salvador Dalí Museum is home to the world’s biggest collection of the late, great artist’s works outside of the man’s own hometown.

Situated close to the waterfront, the building that houses the museum is a sight to behold.

Huge skylights and wall lights cover the structure’s exterior in bubble-like constructions, which welcome sunlight in through a whopping 1,062 windows of odd geometric shapes.

Throughout the Salvador Dalí Museum, you’ll see more than 2,000 different works.

Each room is uniquely decorated to match the essence of Dali’s works, with waxed mustaches, horses on thin legs, swirling stairs, large lips and noses, and melting clocks enlivening each space with fun surreal energy.

The Salvador Dalí Museum is also the home of seven of the great masterworks of Dali, including The Discovery of America, Eggs on a Plate without the Plate, The Hallucinogenic Toreador, and more.

There are a total of 96 oil paintings, as well as several books, original drawings, sculptures, and prints to peruse.

Other iconoclasts also have works on display here alongside Dali’s, such as M.C. Escher, Andy Warhol, and Pablo Picasso.

If you’re seeking free things to do in St. Petersburg, FL, the Salvador Dalí Museum offers hour-long tours of the many works on display, led by knowledgeable guides.

Address: 1 Dali Blvd, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, United States

2. Sunken Gardens

Sunken Gardens

The Sunken Gardens span four acres across St. Pete.

Though it is somewhat small in size, it feels larger than life thanks to its dense verdancy, twisty routes of vegetation, and wide open courtyards.

Over 50,000 tropical plants call the gardens their home, some of which are the oldest of their kind in the country.

The Sunken Gardens are over a century old, and its history is very interesting.

In 1903, a Florida plumber named Mr. George Turner, Sr. purchased a plot of land in old St. Pete, which only had 1,500 residents at the time.

As an avid gardener, Turner knew that the four-acre lake on the plot of land would likely have very fertile soil at its base.

He decided to use his plumbing knowledge to completely drain the lake – something which would likely never be done now due to the potential environmental harm.

Once the 15-foot-deep lake was empty, Turner began planting citrus trees and vegetables, adding more plants and a few walkways over time until the garden became incredibly popular and became one of the earliest St. Petersburg attractions.

Though it almost fell abandoned by the 1970s, the city declared it a local historic landmark in 1998, saving it.

Today, the Sunken Gardens are among the best romantic things to do in St. Pete and draw in numerous tourists each year.

Specialized gardens, such as the tortoise-filled Cactus Garden, the beautiful butterfly courtyard, a Japanese Garden, and an orchid arbor give you plenty to see as you explore.

You’ll even get to spot a pink flamingo flock, pools filled with koi, and lots of exotic birds.

Address: 1825 4th St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33704, United States

3. Morean Arts Center

Morean Arts Center

The Morean Arts Center is a unique, community-oriented institution dedicated to art education and appreciation.

It offers numerous fun and informative programs for people of all ages.

It’s home to places like the Glass Studio and Hot Shop and the Bank of America Children’s Learning Center.

The 10,000-square-foot site displays a variety of works from artists from Florida, America, and the world beyond.

One of the most loved things to see at the Morean Arts Center is the Chihuly Collection.

It, of course, features a permanent collection of works by the renowned studio glass pioneer Dale Chihuly.

This collection is what the museum was designed around, which is why you’re greeted by a 20-foot cerise rock sculpture upon entrance!

The Chihuly Collection features numerous glass works of intricate detail.

Some pieces include Ruby Red Icicle Chandelier, Ikebana, Persians, Mille Fiori, Tumbleweeds, and Macchia.

There are also a few paper works by Chihuly on display, such as those part of his Venetian and Sea Form series.

You’ll also get the chance to watch an informative video on the creative methods and life of the eponymous artist himself.

Address: 719 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, United States

4. Museum of Fine Arts

Museum of Fine Arts

If you’re seeking things to do in downtown St. Pete, Florida, one of the top places to visit for art aficionados is the local Museum of Fine Arts .

Situated in the heart of the downtown area, it showcases a stunning 4,500 years of artistic creation.

It was founded in 1896 and has focused on inspiring and educating artists and showcasing excellence in the art community since its creation.

The Museum of Fine Arts is home to many notable pieces.

There are works by Renoir and Monet, a gallery featuring Stueben glass, an interior sculpture garden, many pre-Columbian artifacts, several French impressionist paintings, and a 10,000-image photograph and paper display.

All in all, more than 14,000 objects are at the museum, not including the works featured in occasional traveling exhibits.

Address: 255 Beach Dr NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, United States

5. Boyd Hill Nature Preserve

Boyd Hill Nature Preserve

If you’re looking for some of the best places to go for vacation , you can’t go wrong with Boyd Hill Nature Preserve .

The award-winning Boyd Hill Nature Preserve of St. Pete spans 245 acres and is chock full of stuff to do.

Six miles of trails and boardwalks take you across gorgeous natural landscapes that will take your breath away.

Right on Lake Maggiore’s shores, this retreat boasts greenery in the form of broad-leaved forests, sand pines, turkey oaks, and wiregrass, harkening back to millennia-old landscapes.

There are plenty of unique ecosystems to explore at Boyd Hill Nature Preserve, such as swamp woodlands, scrub sand trails, and pine flatwoods.

There are even willow marshes that are home to flocks of stunning orange dancing viceroy butterflies!

Guided tours ensure that you see all that the preserve has to offer.

Boyd Hill Nature Preserve is also a part of the Great Florida Birding Trail, making it a great spot for enthusiastic wildlife watchers.

There are also facilities for picnics, outdoor activities, camping, and shelter, and kids can have fun at onsite playgrounds.

Address: 1101 Country Club Way S, St. Petersburg, FL 33705, United States

6. Saturday Morning Market

Saturday Morning Market

Looking for the best things to do in St. Pete this weekend.

Head to the downtown area to visit the Saturday Morning Market !

This is the ideal location to purchase gifts, fresh produce, and great food while you’re serenaded and entertained by live musicians, balloon art performers, and magicians.

The Saturday Morning Market runs each Saturday from October to May and features close to 200 registered vendors at the Al Lang Field parking lot.

You’ll find meats, spices, cheeses, pastries, pickles, seafood, salsas, ice cream, breads, pastries, and much more.

Eclectic artwork is also often for sale.

The Saturday Morning Market doesn’t just feature goods from local makers and Florida farms.

Delicious cuisine from an impressive 15 countries allows you to sample scrumptious ready-to-eat hot meals, like Irish pies and Jamaican patties.

Address: Williams Park, 350 2nd Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, United States

7. Great Explorations Children’s Museum

Great Explorations Children’s Museum

Great Explorations Children’s Museum is one of the most fun family things and tourist attractions to enjoy in St. Petersburg.

It’s a prime learning center in the state, offering a welcoming environment for kids to enjoy hands-on displays and interactive experiences where they’ll think, learn, and discover through myriad activities and exhibits.

Among the fascinating ways children can play at the Great Explorations Children’s Museum are the Pet Vet, where they can learn about caring for animals, and the mini supermarket, where they go “shopping”.

The BellaBrava Pizza Kitchen lets kids learn about how kitchens work while using sculpture materials to make their own toy pizzas.

Build It allows children to build various structures while the Critter Cave brings them up close and personal to amphibians and reptiles.

But that’s not all!

Longo’s Cove is an ocean-themed structure designed for play that has its own beach-themed additional play area.

A firehouse lets kids learn about fire safety.

Art studios, theaters, jungle gyms, climbing spots, and traveling exhibits provide many additional ways for kids to have a good time while learning.

This is an ideal location for children aged 10 and below!

Address: 1925 4th St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33704, United States

8. Florida Holocaust Museum

Florida Holocaust Museum

The Florida Holocaust Museum is one of the best things to do in Florida , and the country’s biggest museum of its kind, with 27,000 square feet to its name.

It’s also one of the best sites for history buffs who are wondering what to do in St. Petersburg, FL.

The sobering site houses one of the only Nazi boxcars remaining, which you can view in context.

The central exhibit of the Florida Holocaust Museum is the History, Heritage, and Hope exhibit.

Spanning all of the museum’s first floor, it provides explanations and insight into the events of the Holocaust in an easy-to-understand but moving manner.

You’ll see videos, photographs, and artifacts that discuss life prior to World War II, the rise of Hitler, and the hopeful aftermath of the horrors of the Holocaust.

The museum also puts a lot of emphasis on educating people about modern-day human rights issues.

It can be overwhelming to take in all this information at once, but exhibits are very well-presented to allow for easy flow as you navigate rooms.

You’ll also find the American southeast’s biggest library pertaining to the Holocaust and genocide onsite.

Address: 55 5th St S, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, United States

9. St. Pete Pier

St. Pete Pier

St. Pete Pier is one of the newer attractions in the area, but it’s already become one of the top places to go.

It covers an impressive 26 acres and stretches 3,000 feet, providing a nice walking space, numerous activities, sources of entertainment, food, and a good evening!

Getting from one end to the other is easy thanks to a tram that can transport you where you need to go.

St. Pete Pier is filled with public artwork that makes the scenery much more vibrant, such as the Bending Arc by Janet Echlement, the Benoist Airboat sculpture, and Olnetopia by Nick Ervinck.

You can head to the end of the pier to go fishing, visit the Splash Pad outdoor waterpark, and relax in the many green spaces available.

Six restaurants are situated on the pier, so you can eat on the waterfront in bliss.

There’s Fresco’s Waterfront Bistro for relaxing, casual dining, Spa Beach Bistro for snacks, and Teak for a fine dining experience.

Address: 600 2nd Ave NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, United States

10. St. Petersburg Museum of History

St. Petersburg Museum of History

The St. Petersburg Museum of History may sound like a typical museum with standard historical information and artifacts, but it’s a little more fun and unique.

It’s one of the only places to visit in the city with this many odd exhibits on display, among its 30,000 total artifacts.

Situated beside St. Pete Pier, the St. Petersburg Museum of History teaches you about the city and its surrounding state.

There’s a section dedicated to the Tampa Bay Rays, a mummy that’s about 3,000 years old, a full-sized Benoist plane replica, and even a two-headed calf!

Fans of nature will love the information on bay ecology, and history buffs will appreciate the many rare photographs, original documents, and papers lovingly displayed in the building.

Address: 335 2nd Ave NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, United States

Looking for more fun? Why not check out Cocoa Beach, FT. Lauderdale and Fort Myers? If you plan the trip, here is our fun list of what to do in Cocoa Beach , some top things to do in Ft. Lauderdale , and some fun things to do in Fort Myers !

11. The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art

The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art

The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art opened in 2018, a brand new addition to the cultural hubbub of downtown St. Pete.

It’s one of the best things to do in St. Petersburg, FL, for art aficionados and those interested in unique showcases.

It is named after Mary and Tom James, who own the private collection of 400 works on display.

The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art is more than just your typical museum.

It’s a complete experience designed to completely evoke the themes and concepts of the works on display.

The entire first floor is designed to look just like a canyon, with sharp angles that wind around corners, a stunning artificial waterfall, and walls made of sandstone.

Up on the second floor, the museum continues to impress architecturally.

Colors commonly used in Western artwork are used to thematically separate each gallery.

It’s truly a unique, one-of-a-kind experience.

But what sort of exhibits does The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art hold?

To start, the introductory gallery is sand-themed and is filled with sculptures of various historical figures and paintings of landscapes, and it even has an orientation theater.

Then, you’ll move on to the rust-themed Early West gallery that has works of Remington and Russell, among others.

From there, head to the blue-gray-themed Native Life gallery, which discusses the lives of Native American peoples during the 1800s.

Beyond there, you’ll be able to visit the deep gold-themed Native Artists gallery, which has an array of indigenous works that move away from the traditional ceremonial, bead, and mask creations.

Here, you’ll find paintings by Earl Biss and a collection of Native American jewelry in the Jewel Box.

There’s even more beyond that, with the burst sienna-themed Frontier, the moss green-themed Wildlife Gallery, and the final sand-themed New West Gallery with creations by Warhol.

There are even hard-hitting pop, modern, and cubist creations that unabashedly confront the relationship between the nation’s government and indigenous communities.

Address: 150 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, United States

12. Skyway Fishing Pier State Park

DanTD , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Skyway Fishing Pier State Park is named after the Sunshine Skyway Bridge.

This bridge is the longest fishing pier in the world and links St. Petersburg with neighboring Sarasota .

As you can probably imagine, this is one of the top St. Petersburg attractions for anglers who flock to Florida to enjoy the relaxing fishing opportunities at the pier.

Regardless of the time of day, you can purchase bait or bring your own and haul in a wide variety of catches, such as red snapper, grouper, spotted sea trout, tarpon, king mackerel, pompano, redfish, Spanish mackerel, cobia, sheepshead, snook, and more.

Of course, fish availability depends on the time of year and season, so plan accordingly!

At night, lights at the pier attract even more fish, so you can enjoy reeling in many nocturnal fish species.

Address: I-275, St. Petersburg, FL 33711, United States

13. Imagine Museum

Imagine Museum

The Imagine Museum is a fun, 36,000-square-foot space dedicated to showcasing contemporary glass art.

With a collection that encompasses works dating back to the 1960s up to the more modern creations of today, the museum displays over 500 studio glass works at a time from its 1,500-piece collection and is filled with things to see.

You’ll find no other museum quite as extensive when it comes to the studio glass movement in Florida.

This is where the Trish Joy Collection is showcased in all its glory on a rotational basis.

There are also other collections, like the 1,000 Buddha installation and the pioneering works of Labino and Littleton, to peruse.

There are three free tours offered by Imagine Museum.

The first, titled Journey of the Imagination, is a unique augmented reality experience that uses multimedia to provide information and education.

The second, titled Introduction to Studio Glass, is a comprehensive look at the studio glass movement’s history.

The third, titled Introduction to International Studio Glass, covers the development of European glass art.

Each tour lasts about half an hour, and they’re all among the great free things to do in St. Pete!

Address: 1901 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33713, United States

Planning a trip to Key West, Kissimmee, or Marco Island? Why not take this opportunity to create some memories? If you plan the trip, here’s our curated list of what to do in Key West , what to do in Kissimmee, FL , and what to do on Marco Island !

14. Fort de Soto Park

Fort de Soto Park

Fort de Soto Park is a whopping 1,136 acres in size, consisting of five different keys.

Situated near St. Petersburg, it’s among the best places to visit in Florida for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

It welcomes an impressive 2.7 million or so annual visitors sitting at the mouth of Tampa Bay.

If you need a little getaway this weekend, look no further!

Fort de Soto Park boasts a four-mile skating and hiking trail and seven miles of gorgeous waterfront.

It offers numerous activities, such as fishing at the two fishing piers, exploring a historic fort, and camping at the many camp and picnic grounds.

There’s even a paddling trail that stretches for two miles, and you can rent kayaks or canoes to boat across its length.

Fort de Soto Park also has a fair few unique sites, such as the Quartermaster Museum, which is filled with information on the Spanish-American War.

The park is also home to a notable 328 or so bird species, so bird-watchers enjoy bringing out their binoculars to spot as many of them as they can!

Lastly, you can bring your furry friends along, as an extremely popular dog beach is onsite.

Address: 3500 Pinellas Bayway S, Tierra Verde, FL 33715, United States

15. Historic Kenwood

Historic Kenwood ( CityofStPete / flickr )

Are you trying to figure out what to see in St. Petersburg, Florida, that will scratch your itch for historic sightseeing?

Historic Kenwood is the place to be!

It has delightful small-town charm and whimsy that is both welcoming and elegant, with idyllic brick roads lined with trees to encourage further exploration.

The homes in the neighborhood of Historic Kenwood were largely built between the years of 1912 and 1945, which means they cover a range of interesting and beautiful architectural styles.

You’ll spot buildings boasting Mission, Tudor Revival, Dutch Colonial Revival, Ranch, Prairie, and Minimal Traditional designs, among others.

Whether you’re a fan of Mediterranian Revival, American Foursquare, or craftsman bungalow architecture, you’ll find what you seek here!

Though it’s a relatively small area at just 375 acres, Historic Kenwood is a sight for sore eyes that’s well worth a visit.

There are 2,238 historic buildings to explore.

The neighborhood community is friendly and welcoming, so tourists love the locale!

Address: 9th Ave N to Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33733, United States

16. Fairgrounds St. Pete

Fairgrounds St. Pete

Fairgrounds St. Pete is a relatively new site in St. Petersburg.

It’s a modern art museum that serves as an impressive interactive space in the local Warehouse Arts District.

This is one of the most fun things to do in St. Pete, so don’t miss it!

Spanning 15,000 square feet, it’s lit up by a huge neon sign that greets you as you approach: “Mermaid Star Motel”, it reads.

But this isn’t a motel at all, but the heart of the museum’s theme for its exhibitions.

The Mermaid Star Motel is a fictional location that allows for a fascinating artistic experience.

The space of Fairgrounds St. Pete is split into numerous hotel rooms, each one specially designed by one of over 60 local artists to represent various aspects of the state of Florida.

The lobby of the “motel” is equipped with brochures of many fictional tourist spots.

From here, you can visit different spaces, like the seashell-covered Mermaid Dressing Room filled with shell-based jewelry and the Lampscape Room filled with mirrors and vibrant lights.

You can even visit a “pool” with no water, a mirage created by a projector, and a convincing set dressing.

Address: 800 28th St S, St. Petersburg, FL 33712, United States

17. Weedon Island Preserve

Weedon Island Preserve

The Weedon Island Preserve is situated near St. Petersburg and is one of the best tourist attractions for outdoor enthusiasts visiting Florida.

It covers 3,190 acres and is made up of various upland and aquatic ecosystems.

There are tidal flats, mangrove forests, and more in this natural reserve and coastal system in Pinellas County, Tampa Bay.

The Weedon Island Preserve offers plenty of things to spend your time on.

Boardwalks allow for long hikes, piers offer great fishing for snook, sea trout, and sheepshead, and bird-watching is always rewarding.

You can also stop for picnics, go kayaking, and go wildlife spotting to seek stingrays, oysters, and other wildlife.

Guided walks are great options for exploring the Weedon Island Preserve, but you can also make your way around on your own.

If you get deep enough into the preserve, you’ll find the Cultural and Natural History Center, where you can view interactive exhibits relating to the environment over a 6,000-square-foot space.

Address: 1800 Weedon Dr NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33702, United States

Looking for more excitement? Why not check out Miami, Naples, and Orlando? If you plan the trip, here are some of the best things to do in Miami , some top things to do in Naples, FL , and some fun Orlando attractions you shouldn’t miss!

18. Mazzaro’s Italian Market

Mazzaro’s Italian Market

Those wondering what to do for good, delicious food in St. Petersburg, Florida will love Mazzaro’s Italian Market .

This bustling site is filled with vibrant energy and the scrumptious scent of fresh food and produce, made every day for guests to purchase and devour.

Mazzaro’s Italian Market sells homemade pasta, delicious sauces, self-roasted coffee, fresh-baked pastries and bread, and delicious cannolis and sandwiches made before your eyes.

The market also imports condiments, oils, salami, and ham straight from Italy, so you know you’re getting authentic Italian fair.

Whether you’re buying hot meals to eat straight away or some artisanal cheeses to bring home, the Mazzaro’s Italian Market is a feast for the eyes, mouth, and nose.

Address: 2909 22nd Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL 33713, United States

19. Mahaffey Theater

Mahaffey Theater

Mahaffey Theater is a cultural gem situated in the downtown area of St. Petersburg.

It opened in the 1960s and has been hosting a wide range of national and international entertainers ever since.

It has 2,031 seats, making for lively showings that aren’t entirely devoid of intimacy, and each seat offers good views and acoustics, even farther back in the theater.

Mahaffey Theater has provided a stage for many different acts, ranging from the Florida Orchestra to the Clifford the Big Red Dog musical.

Whether you want to watch comedy shows, classical music performances, dance shows, pop concerts, or Broadway events, Mahaffey Theater’s packed schedule is sure to have something for you.

Mahaffey Theater uses European-style private box seating for an elegant and enchanting evening.

It also offers lovely waterfront views and a stunning ballroom.

If you’re wondering where to go tonight for a great show and a fun time in St. Pete, definitely check out the Mahaffey Theater’s calendar!

Address: 400 1st St S, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, United States

20. St. Pete Beach

St. Pete Beach

St. Pete Beach is situated near St. Petersburg, just to the west of the city.

It is a barrier island community home to a significant number of award-winning beaches that have become among the top points of interest in Florida.

If it’s lovely white sand, water sports opportunities, and seafood you’re after, St. Pete Beach will satisfy those cravings.

Stand-up paddleboarding, kiteboarding, windsurfing, and parasailing are just a few ways to spend your time here.

You can also explore Pass-a-Grille Beach, an undeveloped public beach with soft sand and azure warm waters.

If you want a longer getaway this weekend, St. Pete Beach has plenty of accommodation options and loads of eateries that make your Gulf of Mexico experience that much more magical.

It’s no wonder this beach town is a popular tourist destination!

Address: Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach, FL 33706, United States

21. St. Petersburg Shuffleboard Club

St. Petersburg Shuffleboard Club

Did you know that St. Pete is home to the world’s largest shuffleboard club?

The St. Petersburg Shuffleboard Club opened in 1924, a new site in the state as it grew into a popular destination for tourists.

Among the things to do in St. Petersburg, FL, most involved leisure and relaxation, and shuffle boarding was certainly a leisurely sport.

Shuffleboard is played by sliding disks along long, flat courts with a cue.

The goal is to land discs on the opposite end’s triangle. For the most part, it’s a relaxing game, and it’s one of the activities that allows open-air recreation in a sporting event that is more social than exertion-heavy.

Better yet, the St. Petersburg Shuffleboard Club was a great sight, with a roof fitted with Spanish tiles and relaxing, mood-setting hanging lamplights.

Unfortunately, the rise of the Great Depression caused St. Pete’s popularity to dwindle, which sapped the fun out of the shuffleboard club.

It was soon known as an old person’s game instead of as a game for the generations of tomorrow, and the city soon became a retirement village.

But times changed again, and today, shuffle boarding is regaining popularity, and the club is in full swing.

Though not as popular as it was in its heyday, the club welcomes players for free on Friday nights and offers membership to those interested.

Address: 559 Mirror Lake Dr N, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, United States

22. Jungle Prada de Narvaez Park

Jungle Prada de Narvaez Park ( Lori Collins / flickr )

Jungle Prada de Narvaez Park is among the best hidden gem St. Petersburg attractions in Florida.

It centers on the tale of Panfil de Narvaez, who sailed with five ships, hundreds of men, and more with the goal of exploring the new world.

He sailed from Cuba, but unfortunately, his greed would be the downfall of his goals.

When a hurricane damaged his ship, Narvaez landed on Boca Ciega Bay.

He and his crew traveled ashore and found the empty homes of a Tocobaga village whose residents had recently fled.

After finding gold, he decided to travel further inland.

He met a few native tribes and was offended by each one, so he insulted and committed violence against them until he and his crew were driven away and forced to make rafts to attempt to get home.

They failed.

Only four members of Narvaez’s exploring party ended up surviving to tell the tale of their failures.

The site where Narvaez first landed is now commemorated with a memorial sign, and the surrounding area is known as Jungle Prada de Narvaez Park.

Address: 8322 Elbow Ln N, St. Petersburg, FL 33710, United States

23. Sunshine Skyway Bridge

Sunshine Skyway Bridge

We’ve already mentioned the Skyway Fishing Pier State Park, but the Sunshine Skyway Bridge deserves its own spot on this list!

Situated on I 275, the bridge connects St. Petersburg across the Florida waters to Tampa Bay.

It stretches an impressive 12 miles, four of which rise enough above the water for large boats to sail beneath.

It can be pretty fun to watch vessels make their way through!

Sunshine Skyway Bridge is simple, but also filled with things to see.

Two main towers above the primary road provide eye-catching magnificence to the already gorgeous site.

In fact, Sunshine Skyway Bridge is considered one of the most stunning bridges in the world.

Address: 7508-7534 Sunshine Skyway Ln S, St. Petersburg, FL 33711, United States

Planning a road trip to Tampa, Pensacola, and Sarasota? Don’t forget to print out our list of some of the best things to do in Tampa , some cool things to do in Pensacola, FL , and a curated list of what to do in Sarasota ! 

24. Gizella Kopsick Arboretum

Gizella Kopsick Arboretum

The Gizella Kopsick Arboretum is one of the free things to do in St. Pete, Florida, with no admission fee.

The two-acre park was once a miniature golf course, but the eponymous Kopsick turned it into a beautiful arboretum in 1976.

It quickly became one of the finest places to visit in St. Petersburg, first among botanists and soon among tourists from across the planet!

The Gizella Kopsick Arboretum hosts lush tropical verdancy, including over 500 palms and cycads of both native and exotic nature.

There are cozy corners to relax on wooden benches, shaded gazebos for contemplation, paved walkways for exploration, and drinking fountains for convenience.

The entire expanse is also wheelchair accessible.

Address: 605 11th Ave NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, United States

25. Clearwater Marine Aquarium

Clearwater Marine Aquarium

Clearwater Marine Aquarium is situated close to St. Petersburg and is a well-known, fun attraction in Florida.

The institution focuses on rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing marine mammals and educates visitors on the importance of marine conservation.

Clearwater Marine Aquarium offers visitors daily presentations and provides behind-the-scenes tours of its facility.

You can visit the in-house theater to watch educational movies, get up-close and personal with all sorts of animals, and even embark on hosted kayak excursions.

Clearwater Marine Aquarium is also home to Winter the dolphin, the famed star of the Dolphin Tale movies.

After meeting Winter, you can also say hello to otters, sea turtles, stingrays, sharks, pelicans, and plenty of marine fish.

Address: 249 Windward Passage, Clearwater, FL 33767, United States

26. Tropicana Field

Tropicana Field

Many of the things to do in St. Pete related to sports and entertainment are hosted at Tropicana Field .

Situated very close to downtown St. Pete, this is a professional facility for sports.

Specifically, it’s the only one in the world that has a Florida Aquarium-provided tank filled with cownose rays.

You can actually feed and touch these stingrays as you please during games!

Of course, the primary attraction of Tropicana Field is that it’s a baseball stadium.

This is the home of the Tampa Bay Rays of Major League Baseball, and it’s the only indoor venue in the league that can host events throughout the year.

Even when there’s not a game playing, there’s stuff to enjoy at Tropicana Field.

You can go on behind-the-scenes tours of the facility or visit the Ted Williams Museum and Hitters Hall of Fame to learn more about the biggest stars of the local baseball scene.

Address: 1 Tropicana Dr., St. Petersburg, FL 33705, United States

27. Sand Key Park

Sand Key Park

If you’re willing to travel outside of St. Petersburg, one of the fun tourist attractions to go to so you can catch the Florida sun is Sand Key Park .

Situated on Sand Key, this is a 95-acre beach park perfect for recreation.

A playground lets kids enjoy themselves while a dog park allows furry friends to take part in the excursion.

Sand Key Park also has a salt marsh that has become popular with birders.

While here, you can keep an eye out for great horned owls, herons, roseate spoonbills, and more.

But Sand Key Park’s most notable feature is its artificial reef, an ongoing development for the health of the Gulf of Mexico.

Address: 1060 Gulf Blvd, Clearwater, FL 33767, United States

Going on a road trip around Florida? Why not check out some of the things to do in Siesta Key  & some of the things to do in Ocala, FL ?

28. Egmont Key National Wildlife Refuge

Egmont Key National Wildlife Refuge

If you’re seeking even more options for what to do just outside of St. Petersburg, Egmont Key National Wildlife Refuge is a great choice.

Right on the mouth of Tampa Bay, this ecological preserve has been an important nesting site for tortoises, sea turtles, and sea birds since 1974.

In its earlier years, Egmont Key National Wildlife Refuge’s location meant it was often a crucial part of numerous domestic conflicts and wars.

This is why you can find interesting historic sites here, such as a century-old lighthouse and the remnants of Fort Dade.

Address: St. Petersburg, FL 33715, United States

29. Clearwater Beach

Clearwater Beach

Yet another one of the fun places to go just outside of St. Petersburg, Clearwater Beach is one of America’s most popular beaches.

It’s famous for its gorgeous clear waters, wealth of water sports opportunities, soft white sand, fabulous nightclubs, and luxurious dinner cruises.

The stretch of Clearwater Beach and its promenade is a popular recreation destination.

The waterfront is lined with many restaurants, shops, and attractions, with plenty of amenities for a comfortable experience.

Address: 1 Causeway Blvd, Clearwater, FL 33767, United States

30. Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail

Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail

Speaking of points of interest that go beyond St. Petersburg, the Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail is a unique site in Florida for exploration and recreation.

This is essentially a park that spans 37 miles in length, serving as a hiking trail.

It was built to follow a railroad corridor that is now abandoned, and it goes all the way from downtown St. Pete to Tarpon Springs.

The Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail is a multi-use trail.

Skaters, runners, cyclists, and walkers travel its path, stopping at the many cafes, eateries, and shops along the way.

The trail passes by several communities, each one marked by unique sculptures.

One of the most popular stops on the trail is Dunedin, a whimsical town with small village charm.

Address: St. Petersburg, FL, United States

31. ARTpool Gallery and Vintage Boutique

ARTpool Gallery

Shopaholics seeking things to do in St. Petersburg, FL will love ARTpool Gallery and Vintage Boutique .

This is one of St. Pete’s trendiest stores, a boutique opened by a local artist in 2008.

The shop can be found in the Grand Central District, and it’s grown from a simple art gallery to a vintage jewelry and clothing shop.

It also hosts a beverage bar and vinyl record store, which really sells the retro vibe.

ARTpool Gallery and Vintage Boutique sells clothing for all genders and all ages.

It also sells antique and retro gifts and home decor and plays host to a number of fashion shows, artisan markets, and art shows on regular rotation.

Anyone who loves kitsch and vintage items will love what ARTpool offers, whether you seek prints, paintings, or attire.

Address: 2030 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33712, United States

Planning to visit St. Augustine and Tallahassee? If you plan the trip, here are some of the top things to do in St. Augustine and some of the best things to do in Tallahassee ! 

32. Floridian Social Club

Floridian Social Club

The Floridian Social Club is one of the most unique St. Petersburg attractions.

Housed in a gorgeous Beaux-Arts building, this club has gone through many lives in just the past hundred or so years.

It’s been a serious office, a fun theater, a bank, a concert venue, and a site for live performances.

Each iteration of the Floridian Social Club hasn’t been particularly long-lived.

It began its life as one of the city’s biggest banks, the only one able to legally print currency, but it lost that function in the 1929 stock market crash.

It served as little more than an office building for a while until it reopened as a theater in 1950.

But just three decades later, it went out of business, and then soon after, it began to wear down from age while serving as a live music venue.

In 2021, the building reopened as the Floridian Social Club with a new Art Deco style.

It now plays live music almost every night and serves a wide range of cocktails inspired by the Roaring 20s.

Address: 687 Central Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, United States

Looking for more adventures? Why not check out some of the best things to do in Boca Raton ?

Start Planning Your Trip To St. Petersburg, FL

St. Petersburg is a lively, cheerful place, with sunshine galore, vibrant culture, and relaxing natural areas that include preserves, gardens, parks, and beaches.

No matter what you love to do, you’ll find many things to do in St. Pete that meet your preferences!

Happy travels!

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• Top 20 Attractions

Top 20 St. Petersburg attractions and experiences

St. Petersburg has a true wealth of attractions and experiences to offer travelers, from spectacular Imperial palaces to quirky and absorbing museums, from boat trips along the city's majestic rivers and canals to walks in the footsteps of St. Petersburg's literary and artistic greats.

In fact, there's more than enough to see and do in St. Petersburg to keep visitors entertained for weeks or even months. One of the biggest challenges for independent travelers is to work out what they will actually have time to fit in to their itinerary, particularly as St. Petersburg is one of Europe's largest cities, with the historical centre alone covering several square kilometers and some of the most famous attractions located far out in the suburbs. To help you get the most out of your time in St. Petersburg, our travel writers have drawn on their own expertise and years of feedback from travelers to compile this Top 20 list of attractions and experiences.

The Hermitage (The Winter Palace)

Undoubtedly St. Petersburg's most famous visitor attraction, and universally acknowledged as one of the world's greatest treasuries of art and antiquities, the Hermitage is a name to be conjured with, and reason enough on its own for many travelers to book a trip to St. Petersburg.

The Hermitage Museum now spans several sites, but for most visitors it is the main collection in the Winter Palace that is an essential component of any St. Petersburg itinerary. Here you'll find not only centuries of European fine art and a rich collection of Greek and Roman antiquities , but also the astonishingly opulent 18th and 19th century state rooms of Russia's imperial family.

Since the summer of 2014, much of the Hermitage's renowned collection of impressionist and post-impressionist art (in terms of artistic quality, undoubtedly the highpoint of the collection) has been transferred across Palace Square to the General Staff Building , so if your main reason for visiting the Hermitage is to see the art, then you have to consider making time for the second location, possibly with a break for refreshments between the two.

Optimal: One day for the Winter Palace and General Staff Building collections.

Minimum: Two hours

Further reading

Explore the Hermitage: An introduction to St. Petersburg's greatest museum.

The Mariinsky Theatre

St. Petersburg's other internationally renowned cultural institution, and for some visitors an even greater draw than the Hermitage, the Mariinsky Theatre has profited in recent years from the financial and creative turmoils of Moscow's Bolshoi to become the undisputed preeminent musical theatre in modern Russia.

Renowned for the impeccable discipline and devotion to tradition of its ballet company, and blessed in Valery Gergiev with one of contemporary classical music's most exciting and exacting conductors, as well as international stars of ballet and opera including Ulyana Lopatkina, Diana Vishneva and Anna Netrebko, the Mariinsky Theatre is a world-class venue for ballet, opera and orchestral music.

Recent years have seen the Mariinsky spread beyond its historic home, the wedding-cake late-19th century opera house on Teatralnaya Ploshchad ("Theatre Square"), with the addition in 2006 of the Mariinsky Concert Hall, and in 2013 the long-awaited opening of the second opera and ballet stage, Mariinsky II. While most visitors will want to enjoy the rich atmosphere and ornate interiors of the main theatre, both new venues are beautifully designed inside, with state-of-the-art acoustics and stage technology, making them well worth exploring for music enthusiasts.

Optimal: As many performances as time and your budget will allow.

Minimum: At least one evening performance at the Mariinsky should be an essential component of any Petersburg itinerary.

Rivers and canals of St. Petersburg by boat

If you're visiting St. Petersburg from May to October, there are a number of ways to explore the city by boat, from taking the hydrofoil to the suburban palace and park at Peterhof to enjoying dinner and live jazz on an evening cruise along the Neva. When the weather's good, visitors should really take any opportunity to get out on the water, but even the shortest visit to St. Petersburg in summer should include one boat trip along the city's central rivers and canals.

There is a wide range of different offers available at the various quays on or near Nevsky Prospekt, with larger boats offering guided tours (some in English) and on-board refreshments, and smaller boats that you can rent by the hour, choose your own route, and bring your own food and drink. All routes through the centre take in some portion of the Fontanka and Moyka Rivers and the Griboedov and Kryukov Canals. Some also head out onto the River Neva, while around midnight most of the boats in the city offer the chance to watch the opening of the Neva's bascule bridges from the water. Whatever route you end up taking, a boat trip is a fantastic way to see St. Petersburg from a different angle, and perhaps the best possible means of getting an impression of the sheer scope of the city's architectural beauty and romance.

Optimal: If you're in the city for more than a few days, it's definitely worth taking two trips - one sightseeing tour through the centre and one to watch the bridges opening .

Minimum: A basic sightseeing tour along the rivers and canals of the centre will take just over an hour.

When it comes to visitor attractions, St. Petersburg is as famous for the Imperial palaces and parks in the suburbs as for the museums and palaces in the city centre. Among the former, Peterhof is the one we would class as absolutely unmissbale, especially in summer when the park's incredible collection of fountains is in operation.

It took Peter the Great over a decade and a few false starts before he found the right site for his summer residence. Modelled partly on Versailles, but with many features that reflected Peter's specific tastes and interests, the park was expanded under Peter's daughter, Empress Elizabeth, to greatly surpass its French antecedent in scope and grandeur. While the Grand Palace at Peterhof is less spectacular than the Catherine Palace at Tsarskoye Selo, Peterhof excels in the diversity and range of its attractions, from the charming baroque buildings of the Petrine era to the extraordinary gilded extravagance of the Grand Cascade to the catalog of gardening styles encompassed in the Upper and Lower Parks to the ever-growing number of museums housed in the various buildings on the estate.

Optimal: There is plenty at Peterhof to keep you occupied for a whole day, and the Lower Park is a great place to picnic in the summer.

Minimum: As the journey from the city centre takes at least 45 minutes, half a day is the minimum time necessary to visit Peterhof even for the briefest overview.

St. Isaac's Cathedral & Colonnade

The low-rise skyline of St. Petersburg's historic centre is dominated by the grand gold dome of St. Isaac's Cathedral, the life's work of French architect Auguste de Montferrand and the city's largest and most spectacular religious building.

Completed in 1858, St. Isaac's took over forty years to build and decorate. Its strictly European Empire-style facades and colonnades are made unique by the employment of red Karelian granite, while the interiors also meld Orthodox tradition with Catholic influence and extraordinary extravagance in the choice of materials. Different types of semiprecious stone from all over Russia form the interior walls and columns, while an abundance of original art and sculpture goes only a little way to filling the vast hall of the cathedral, designed to accommodate 14 000 standing worshipers. As well as visiting the Cathedral interiors, travelers can buy an extra ticket to climb the 300 steps up to the colonnade. From here, you can enjoy some of the best views of St. Petersburg available.

Optimal: A tour of the cathedral and colonnade should take around two hours. It's certainly worth getting an audio guide for the cathedral, and possibly for the colonnade if you are entirely unfamiliar with the lay-out of the city.

Minimum: While visiting the cathedral interiors is hardly essential if you have limited time to explore the city, the colonnade is just about the only accessible place in St. Petersburg where you can enjoy something like aerial views of the downtown, so it's well worth taking half an hour to visit.

The Peter & Paul Fortress

The place where the city of St. Petersburg began, the Peter and Paul Fortress never actually saw military action, but has fulfilled a variety of functions over its three-century history, from burial place for nearly all of the Romanov Emperors and Empresses to notorious political prison to the site of key experiments in the development of Soviet rocket technology. All of these aspects of the fortresses history are celebrated in diverse exhibitions across various buildings, and it is the ramshackle charms of these various museums and collections as much as the grandeur of the spectacular Ss. Petersburg and Paul Cathedral that make the fortress an essential visitor attraction.

Optimal: It's possible to spend the best part of a full day at the Peter and Paul Fortress, and if possible you should definitely take the time (around five hours) to visit the Peter and Paul Cathedral, explore the displays on the History of St. Petersburg in the Commandant's House and at the Museum of Cosmonautics and Rocket Techonolgy, and walk along the top of the curtain wall.

Minimum: If you're short of time, it's probably enough to pop inside the Cathedral and walk the ramparts (just over an hour).

Church of Our Saviour on Spilled Blood

While it lacks the authentic medieval charm of St. Basil's in Moscow, the Church on Spilled Blood is nonetheless one of St. Petersburg's most instantly recognizable landmarks, its riotously colorful Russian Revival architecture making a stark contrast to the elegant neoclassicism of the State Russian Museum next door. This is part of the church's charm, in that it serves to constantly remind the visitor to St. Petersburg that, despite the Italianate elegance of most of the "Golden Triangle", you are still definitely in Russia. It's extraordinary also that a monument to mark such a tragic event (the assassination of Alexander II) should be so exuberantly colorful.

Optimal: As gaudy and colorful on the inside as on the outside, the Church on Spilled Blood is worth going inside if you have time to listen through an audio guide with the story of the church's construction (just over an hour in total).

Minimum: If you're on a whistlestop tour, there's no need to set aside time for the Church on Spilled Blood, as you're bound to pass it more than once in even the shortest exploration of St. Petersburg.

Tsarskoye Selo (Pushkin)

Home to not one but two vast 18th century palaces, surrounded by beautifully landscaped parkland with a rich variety of follies and monuments, Tsarskoye Selo is a testament to the immense wealth and lavishness of the Romanov Imperial family. The rococo Catherine Palace by Bartolomeo Rastrelli, a sister building to his Winter Palace in the city centre, is the most famous attraction, particularly thanks to the extraordinary Amber Room, but there are many other highlights to see, with almost every great St. Petersburg architect of the 18th and early-19th centuries contributing something to the ensemble.

Optimal: Like Peterhof, Tsarskoye Selo is best enjoyed at a leisurely pace over a full day, with a break for a picnic in the park or lunch at one of Pushkin's restaurants.

Minimum: There's no point in visiting Tsarskoye Selo unless have a full morning or afternoon free. It's all worth considering combining Tsarskoye Selo with the palace and park at Pavlovsk a few kilometers east. This also gives you the opportunity to dine at the excellent Podvorye restaurant.

Opening bridges

The Neva River connects Lake Ladoga to the Baltic Sea, and during the summer navigation season tens of cargo ships per day follow this important route, making it necessary to open the bascule bridges across the Neva in central St. Petersburg. This is done after midnight, and during the White Nights especially it has long been a tradition for crowds to gather along the embankments to watch the raising of the bridges. The raised arches of Palace Bridge make for one of St. Petersburg's most famous views, but its as much the atmosphere of lazy revelry and contentment inspired by the eternal twilight that makes this such an unmissable St. Petersburg experience.

Optimal: If you have the opportunity, then it's worth taking a midnight boat trip out to watch each bridge rise from the water.

Minimum: It is only really Palace Bridge and Trinity Bridge that gather big crowds, and they are undoubtedly the most beautiful. To watch the two adjacent bridges rising and walk the kilometer along the river between the two is a pleasant way to spend an hour before bed.

Nevsky Prospekt

"There's nothing finer than Nevsky Prospekt, at least not in St. Petersburg." So begins Nikolay Gogol's famous tale of St. Petersburg's central avenue. While that story may end in disillusion and despair, there's little doubt that Nevsky is one of the world's greatest streets. Running 4.5 kilometers from the Admiralty in the west to the Alexander Nevsky Monastery in the east, Nevsky Prospekt has a hardly single building dating from after 1917. Highlights include the magnificent Art Nouveau Singer Building , the baroque Stroganov Palace , Kazan Cathedral with its curved neoclassical colonnade, the Horse Tamers statues on Anichkov Bridge , and the 18th century shopping arcade Gostiny Dvor .

Nowadays, St. Petersburg's most exclusive shopping area is actually the eastern end of Nevsky, beyond Ploshchad Vosstaniya. As well as landmark buildings and up-market boutiques, however, Nevsky Prospekt also offers an electric atmosphere and energy. Especially in summer, Nevsky is bustling no what the hour, and an increasing number of bars and cafes without outdoor seating give you a better opportunity to enjoy the avenue's living theatre.

Optimal: It will take at least two hours to walk the full length of Nevsky Prospekt, allowing for brief contemplation of the major sights and attractions.

Minimum: The most famous landmarks on Nevsky are nearly all in the stretch that runs through St. Petersburg's "Golden Triangle" from the Fontanka River to the Admiralty. This section of the avenue can be explored in around 30 minutes.

Bronze Horseman

St. Petersburg's most famous public monument, this equestrian statue to Peter the Great is not only one of the most instantly recognizable symbols of St. Petersburg - like the Statue of Liberty for New York or the Eiffel Tower for Paris - it is also the subject of one of the greatest poems in the Russian language, Alexander Pushkin's The Bronze Horseman: A Petersburg Tale . Completed in 1782, the statue took 12 years of work by the French sculptor Étienne Maurice Falconet, recommended to Catherine the Great by Denis Diderot himself. The pedestal of the monument, the "Thunder Stone", is purportedly the largest ever moved by man.

The Bronze Horseman is easily combined with a visit to St. Isaac's Cathedral, so does not require a specific time on your itinerary.

State Russian Museum

While the Tretyakov Gallery in Moscow is undoubtedly the finest collection of Russian art in the world thanks to its beautiful premises and rich collection of 20th century work, it is matched up to the October Revolution almost painting for painting by the State Russian Museum. Occupying the magnificent Mikhailovsky Palace, the Russian Museum's main collection is a treasury of Russian visual from throughout the ages, with highlights including medieval icons, atmospheric late-19th century genre paintings, and several modernist masterpieces.

Optimal: The main collection in the Mikhailovsky Palace will take 2-3 hours to do justice to, and it's also worth visiting the collections in the Marble Palace both to see this beautiful building and for the Peter Ludwig collection of international Pop Art.

Minimum: While the Russian Museum is definitely one of St. Petersburg's top visitor attractions, if you are on a first-time trip to Russia and visiting Moscow as well, it makes sense to choose either the Russian Museum or the Tretyakov Gallery, as the two have very similar content right down to different variations of the same work in some cases.

Dostoevsky's St. Petersburg

While nearly every great figure of Russian literature spent some time in St. Petersburg, and many wrote works with St. Petersburg as their setting, none is so inextricably linked with the geography and atmosphere of the city as Fyodor Dostoevsky. For many travelers, it is reading his works that sparks an initial desire to visit St. Petersburg, even though his descriptions often make the city monstrous and forbidding. As St. Petersburg's historic centre has been comparatively untouched by change in the 20th century, much of Dostoevsky's Petersburg is still there to explore, and the areas around Sennaya Ploshchad and Vladimirskaya Ploshchad are rich in sights connected to his life and works.

Optimal: Our Dostoevsky walking tour takes 3.5 hours, including a visit to the Dostoevsky Memorial Museum .

Minimum: To get an idea of where Dostoevsky lived, you can just visit the museum and the adjacent Church of the Vladimir Icon , as well as the Monument to Fyodor Dostoevsky , in about an hour.

A small promontory of land at the eastern end of Vasilevskiy Island , the Strelka ("Spit") is right in the middle of the Neva River Delta, with magnificent views on all sides, including the Winter Palace , Palace and Trinity Bridges , the Peter and Paul Fortress and St. Isaac's Cathedral . A perennially popular site for wedding parties and bus tours to stop and take photos, the Strelka also has landmarks of its own, specifically the magnificent Rostral Columns , with their gas beacons lit for public holidays and maritime anniversaries, and the elegant classical temple of the St. Petersburg Stock Exchange , all works of the French-born architect Thomas de Thomon.

The Strelka is an integral part of any exploration of Vasilevskiy Island, and does not require separate time on your itinerary.

Pushkinskaya 10

Established in 1989 as a squat for independent artists, alternative musicians, and other "underground" types, Pushkinskaya 10 is an arts and performance centre in an old apartment building a short walk from Nevsky Prospekt. A warren of studios and exhibition space haphazardly linked together as the Museum of Non-Comformist Art , Pushkinskaya 10 can be somewhat bewildering for visitors, and much of the space is often inexplicably closed (the two bars, both of which are also concert venues, are by far the most accessible parts of the complex), but it's well worth visiting for the increasingly rare chance to get a glimpse of the old Leningrad bohemia and its once revered dissident art scene.

Optimal: The best way to visit Pushkinskaya 10 is to come in the early evening and hope that the galleries are open, before heading to one of the two music venues for a concert.

Minimum: A 15-minute visit should suffice to get an overall impression of the center's atmosphere.

Carlo Rossi's Petersburg

Practically unknown outside Russia, this Italian-born architect was the major creative force behind great swathes of central St. Petersburg, particularly the city's grand formal squares, with their Empire-style columned facades and trademark yellow-and-white plasterwork. His most famous buildings include the General Staff Building on Palace Square, the Alexandrinsky Theatre , the Senate and Synod Building , and the Mikhailovsky Palace (the State Russian Museum ). In the "Golden Triangle" of St. Petersburg's historic centre, moreover, it's hard to take more than a few steps without finding more of Rossi's work.

Optimal: Our walking tour of Rossi's most famous buildings takes around 2.5 hours.

Minimum: You'll see Rossi's work when you visit the Hermitage, the State Russian Museum, the Bronze Horseman, and just about anywhere you walk in central St. Petersburg.

Kunstkammer (Museum of Anthropology and Ethnology)

The city's oldest museum, the Kunstkammer was founded in 1718 by Peter the Great himself, and is primarily of interest as a monument to the remarkable endeavours and enthusiasms of St. Petersburg's extraordinary founder. Housed in an elegant baroque building on Vasilevskiy Island, the museum has a rather pedestrian collection of ethnographic exhibits, and most visitors are drawn rather to Peter's own fascination, the huge number of deformed fetuses preserved in jars and other freaks of nature. Slightly less sensational but also of interest are the displays devoted to the great Russian polymath Mikhail Lomonosov.

A visit to the Kunstkammer will take around 1.5 hours.

Ploshchad Pobedy and Moskovsky Prospekt

St. Petersburg's historic centre is renowned for having undergone little architectural change during the 20th century. In fact, the Soviet authorities were inclined to abandon the centre, redolent of the imperial past, and develop a new city to the south, along Moskovsky Prospekt . Most visitors only see this part of town on their way to and from Pulkovo Airport, but its worth exploring for several fantastic examples of Stalin-era architecture, including the monumental House of Soviets , as well as the memorials to the Great Patriotic War in Park Pobedy ("Victory Park") and on Ploshchad Pobedy ("Victory Square"). The latter is home to a magnificent panoramic monument to the Heroic Defenders of Leningrad , which has a museum detailing the defense of the city beneath it.

Optimal: It is worth spending a couple of hours exploring Moskovsky Prospekt southwards from Park Pobedy Metro Station, as well as taking a tour of the museum beneath the Monument to the Heroic Defenders of Leningrad.

Minimum: If you're short of time, there's not reason to make an extra trip out to Moskovsky Prospekt as you'll be able to see the highlights on the way to/from the airport.

Mikhailovsky Theatre

While there's no questioning the Mariinsky Theatre's position as St. Petersburg's leading venue for opera and ballet performances, it is worth paying attention to this second historic theatre on Ploshchad Iskusstv, not only because of the last decade's largely successful financial and artistic renaissance, which has seen the Mikhailovsky engage top foreign talent and gain an international reputation, but also because it can often be a more affordable and accessible way to see ballet in St. Petersburg. This is especially true when tickets at the Mariinsky are scarce during the White Nights Festival.

Ballet enthusiasts should definitely consider taking in a show at the Mikhailovsky as an addition to, rather than a replacement for, performances at the Mariinsky.

Yelagin Island

Accessible from the city centre in around 20 minutes by metro, Yelagin Island (also known by its Soviet-era name as the "Kirov Central Park of Culture and Leisure") rarely finds a place on tourist itineraries. It really should be more popular, however, offering not only a (comparatively) small but very elegant Imperial palace by Carlo Rossi, but also attractive parkland, a boating lake in summer and outdoor skating in winter, and the surprisingly avant-garde wonders of the Museum of Glass Art . The lack of cars on the island and the small entrance fee make it a secluded a tranquil spot, and its probably the best of the green spaces within the city if you're looking for somewhere to enjoy a relaxing walk.

Yelagin is a great place to while away a summer afternoon, and also has a fairly active calendar of cultural events in the warmer months, including a couple of music festivals.

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