Nakano Broadway offers anime fans an alternative to Akihabara

Akihabara isn’t the only hub for anime enthusiasts, because you’ll find a plethora of both budget and premium anime goods at Nakano Broadway!

Located in the heart of Tokyo’s Nakano City is a popular multi-level shopping strip known as Nakano Broadway. More than a catchy name, it was once home to a luxurious shopping complex when it was first established in 1966.

How Nakano Broadway has changed

While still known primarily as a shopping destination, the content of products and services has since changed drastically. Instead of clothing, handbags, and jewelry, the complex is now blanketed with store after store of anime and manga merchandise.

Presentation is everything

It’s not what they sell, but how they sell it, that truly makes Nakano Broadway a unique experience. You’ll often find interesting pop-ups peering out of the store that represents the theme of that particular outlet.

Figures galore

It can be hard to tell the difference between Nakano Broadway and Japan’s anime town Akihabara, as both showcase a relentless display of anime figurines, merchandise, and “gachapon” machines. Nakano Broadway does one-up its anime-town counterpart by offering more second-hand goods and specialty stores that are dedicated to a specific anime series.

Namco Nakano arcade

Speaking of specialties, the complex also hosts the Namco Nakano arcade, a specialist gaming center that is dedicated to Namco. Iconic games such as Pac-Man, Mario, and Tekken can be enjoyed at this cool themed arcade.


Of course, if you are planning to visit Japan, you’ll need a way to get around the country as efficiently and affordably as possible. Japan Rail provides an abundance of travel passes to suit your travel needs. So whether you are traveling individually or as a group, the JR Pass is every traveler’s go-to for getting around and making the most of your time in Japan!

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