Tucked away just a 5-minute walk from Nakano Station, this unassuming shopping complex has been the true holy ground for anime, manga, and pop culture enthusiasts since 1966. While many visitors head to Akihabara for their anime pilgrimage, seasoned fans know that Nakano Broadway offers a more authentic and concentrated otaku experience.

What Makes Nakano Broadway Special?

A Collector’s Paradise Across Four Floors

• Mandarake: The legendary 8-store chain within the complex specializing in rare anime goods, vintage manga, and collectible figurines
• Specialized Shops: From vintage video games to idol merchandise and rare art books
• Affordable Prices: Better deals than tourist areas thanks to competitive second-hand market

Caede’s Insider Tip:
“Start your journey at the Nakano Sun Mall shopping street – the vibrant entrance to the Broadway complex. Don’t be fooled by the quiet exterior; the real magic begins on the second and third floors where the most exclusive collectible shops are hidden! If you’re exploring Tokyo’s unique neighborhoods, you might also enjoy the youthful energy of Harajuku.”

Beyond Anime: Unexpected Delights

While famous for anime goods, the complex also features:

• Unique fashion boutiques featuring Japanese street style
• Traditional Japanese confectionery shops
• Excellent ramen restaurants in the basement food court
• Everyday services used by local residents

Caede’s Food Recommendation:
“After treasure hunting, visit the basement food court for what many consider the best tonkotsu ramen in Tokyo. My favorite spot is the small shop in the corner that’s maintained its quality for decades – the perfect way to experience authentic local flavor! For more Tokyo food adventures, check out the Tsukiji Outer Market.”

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

Visitor Essentials

Access: 5-minute walk from Nakano Station North Exit
Hours: Most shops 12:00-20:00 (varies)
Tip: Bring cash as some smaller shops don’t accept credit cards
Budget: More affordable than Akihabara with better deals

Why Visit Now?

Nakano Broadway preserves the authentic spirit of Japanese otaku culture that’s becoming increasingly rare in modern Tokyo. As the neighborhood continues to evolve while maintaining its unique character, now is the perfect time to experience this living piece of Tokyo’s cultural history.

Caede’s Final Thought:
“What makes Nakano Broadway truly special is that sense of discovery. Unlike the commercialized areas, here you’ll find passionate shop owners who are true experts in their niche. Every visit reveals new treasures – whether you’re hunting for that rare figurine or just soaking up the unique atmosphere. Combine your visit with exploring the vibrant Nakano area for a perfect day off the beaten tourist path. For those interested in more traditional Japanese culture, consider balancing your trip with a visit to the historic Asakusa district.”

Whether you’re a serious collector or simply curious about Japanese pop culture, Nakano Broadway offers an unforgettable glimpse into the heart of Tokyo’s enduring subcultures.

Nestled in the quiet greenery of Inokashira Park in Mitaka, Tokyo, the Ghibli Museum welcomes visitors into the dreamlike world of master animator Hayao Miyazaki. This isn’t just a museum – it’s a portal into the enchanting universe of Studio Ghibli, where magic and imagination come to life.

A Museum Unlike Any Other

As Hayao Miyazaki himself envisioned, this is a “space of wonder and excitement” where traditional exhibits are replaced by immersive experiences. From the moment you approach the building, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a Ghibli film, with stained glass windows featuring beloved characters and a giant Totoro waiting to greet you at the entrance.

Caede’s Personal Recommendation:
“Don’t rush through the museum! The real magic is in the details – the handmade stained glass, the winding staircases that feel straight out of Howl’s Moving Castle, and the tiny doors meant for forest spirits. My favorite spot is the Central Hall with its magnificent glass dome. While you’re in the area, I highly recommend exploring the beautiful Inokashira Park surrounding the museum – it’s especially stunning during cherry blossom season!”

Must-See Highlights

• The Saturn Theater: Watch exclusive short films created specifically for the museum
• The Cat Bus Room: Children can play on the giant furry Cat Bus from My Neighbor Totoro
• Special Exhibition Rooms: Rotating exhibits showcasing Ghibli’s creative process
• The Rooftop Garden: Featuring a life-sized Robot Soldier from Castle in the Sky
• Straw Hat Cafe: Enjoy original food and drinks in a charming setting

Caede’s Insider Tip:
“Before your visit, I recommend watching My Neighbor Totoro and Castle in the Sky – you’ll appreciate so many more details! And here’s my secret tip: combine your Ghibli visit with a trip to Kichijoji, just one station away. It’s voted Tokyo’s most desirable neighborhood to live in and has amazing shopping and dining!”

Visitor Information

Location:
1-1-83 Shimorenjaku, Mitaka-shi, Tokyo
Located within Inokashira Park

Access:

• 15-minute walk from Mitaka Station (JR Chuo Line)
• 5-minute ride on the community bus from Mitaka Station

Admission:

• Adults: ¥1,000
• Youth: ¥700
• Children: ¥400
• Preschoolers: ¥100

Hours:

• 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Four entry times daily
• Closed on Tuesdays

Q&A: Your Ghibli Museum Questions Answered

The Ghibli Museum Mitaka is more than just a tribute to animation – it’s a living, breathing embodiment of the creativity and wonder that defines Studio Ghibli’s films. It reminds us to see the world with childlike wonder and to believe in the magic that exists in everyday life.

Caede’s Final Thought:
“Visiting the Ghibli Museum feels like stepping into a living storybook. Every corner holds a new discovery that will make you believe in magic again. For any Ghibli fan, it’s an absolute must-visit that pairs perfectly with other Tokyo anime attractions like the Pokemon Center for a full day of Japanese pop culture!”

Ticket Arrangement

We can arrange Ghibli Museum tickets on your behalf.
Please feel free to contact us if you would like us to assist with the booking.

Area Map Ghibli Museum

The post Ghibli Museum Mitaka: Step into the Magical World of Studio Ghibli first appeared on Japan City Tour | Travel agency in Tokyo.]]> https://japancitytour.com/ghibli-museum/feed/ 0 124115 https://japancitytour.com/ultraman/ https://japancitytour.com/ultraman/#respond Thu, 06 May 2021 02:28:23 +0000 https://www.tctour.co.jp/?p=18901 Discover Ultraman’s 50+ year legacy, from iconic TV heroes and series history to real-world locations like Ultraman Street and fan festivals.

The post The world’s most popular Ultraman first appeared on Japan City Tour | Travel agency in Tokyo.]]> Ultraman is a live-action superhero in Japan like Superman or Spiderman in the US. It has been more than 50 years since the much-loved series’ start, and it is still continuing today. Ultraman is loved by many Japanese people, so let’s see what the series is about and where the real-life related spots are located!

Outline of Ultraman

The live-action series of Ultraman started broadcasting on TV in 1966.  It was made by Tsuburaya Productions which was specialized in tokusatsu (special effects). They made Ultra Q just before Ultraman, which is regarded as the first Ultra series. It was filmed in black and white, and Ultraman was the first super effect TV show in color.

The first Ultraman had 39 episodes and the average audience rate was 36.8% which mearns that it was absolutely successful. It was exported to more than 100 countries. At the same time as it was broadcast, a manga (comic) of Ultraman was published.

Ultraman Story

The disasters happening in the series are created by space aliens or Kaiju (monsters). Science Patrol members try to solve the problems, but the disasters are always beyond their control. Then Ultraman appears, and saves the earth. Ultraman is a member of the Space Guard from galaxy M78, three million light-years away from the earth.

He accidentally kills Mr Hayato, one of the members of Science Patrol, when he chases a monster. To compensate, Ultraman decides to live as Hayato and fight with aliens and monsters to save the earth. So, he lives as a human being and when he needs to fight, he uses a beta capsule and transforms himself into Ultraman.

Ultraman is 40 meters tall and weighs 35,000 tons. He can run at a speed of 450 km/h and fly at Mach 5, and he is 20,000 years old. He has a strong physical ability and has a lot of special weapons. The most popular one is the Specium Ray. When he crosses his arms, the ray generates. All kids used to imitate this action. He can also do teleportation. His weak point is that he can be Ultraman only for three minutes. For this reason, the blue color timer on his chest shows when time is running out by turning red after 2.5 minutes.

Aliens and Monsters

The aliens and monsters in the story are very unique. While they are bad creatures, they are often still very lovable. Here are 3 popular monster characters;

Alien Baltan: has big scissors like crayfish on his hands with which can easily cut a 20-cm thick iron plate. He appears in several episodes as Ultraman’s strongest rival.

Jamila: this was originally a human astronaut. When he crash-landed on a planet without water, his body accustomed to the circumstances and his skin became like clay. He came back to earth to take revenge on the country that abandoned him.

Pigmon: He is a monster but friendly to humans. He appears in several episodes as a mascot character.

Ultra Series

Because the first Ultraman was so successful, they continued making different Ultraman series. Ultra Seven, Return of Ultraman, Ultraman A, Ultraman Leo, and so on. Not only the TV series but also many Ultraman movies have been made and are still made. In 2021, Shin Ultraman will be released. Notably, it was made by combining Hideaki Anno and Shinji Higuchi, the same team that made 2021 smash hit Shin Evangelion.

In 2013, the Ultra Series (including Ultra Q and Captain Ultra) was recorded in the Guinness Book of World Record as the series with most TV spin-off. There were 27 titles at that time.

Ultraman Festival

Ultraman Festival has been held every summer since 1989. They exhibit characters to take pictures with, sell souvenirs, and hold live attractions. Many families visit the festival and both parents and children enjoy it.

Ultraman Shopping Street

Soshigaya Shopping Street in western Tokyo is called Ultraman Shopping Street because there are a lot of Ultraman characters on the street. That is because the area is related to Ultraman. Tsuburaya Production was established near the street in 1963 as well as Toho Movie Studio.

You can see the statue of the Ultraman in front of the station, the Ultraman arches at the entrance of the shopping area, the city lights have Ultraman and monster design, and even the police box is decorated with the face of Ultraman. In some shops you can buy related products. Even if you are not an Ultraman fan, you will enjoy the atmosphere which resembles a theme park.

Ultraman World M78

You can also buy Ultraman goods at the shops Ultraman World M78 or SHOT M78. There are more than 20 shops all over Japan from Hokkaido to Okinawa. If you are in Tokyo, Ultraman World in the Tokyo Character Street at Tokyo Station is easy to access.

Kaiju Sakaba

There are two Ultraman-themed restaurants, one is in Shinbashi, Tokyo and the other restaurant is in Kawasaki. Actually, they are supposed to be places where Kaiju (monsters) can enjoy eating and drinking without Ultraman.

I visited the shop in Kawasaki in 2016. At the entrance, there was a checkpoint. You first have to stand in front of a special mirror. If they judge that you are a superhero, you cannot enter. There are many characters all over the place. Foods are also Kaiju-themed. It was a lot of fun to spend time with the characters!

Your Japan Tour

As seasoned Japan experts, we can help you create your perfect Japan tour including guides who can tell you all about Ultraman and other Japanese popular culture. Check out our group tours and private tours, or contact us to start planning your unforgettable holiday to this fascinating country. Japan is full of once-in-a-lifetime experiences, culture, history, nature, and delicious food!

The post The world’s most popular Ultraman first appeared on Japan City Tour | Travel agency in Tokyo.]]> https://japancitytour.com/ultraman/feed/ 0 18901 https://japancitytour.com/wotagei-a-cheer-dance-of-japanese-otaku-fans/ Wed, 21 Apr 2021 01:00:00 +0000 https://www.tctour.co.jp/?p=18608 Wotagei is a type of cheer dance that is usually done by devoted fans for their much-loved idols during concerts. There are specific choreographies that all concert-goers seem to know. What's up with wotagei?

The post Wotagei a Cheer Dance of Japanese Otaku Fans first appeared on Japan City Tour | Travel agency in Tokyo.]]> Anyone who has ever attended a high-school or college sports game in Japan or Korea has seen the choreographed group cheers that they do. If you are the only one who doesn’t know how the dance goes, you might feel a bit out of the loop. Visiting a J-pop idol’s concert is quite a similar experience because of the ‘wotagei’ cheer dances that are done by otaku concert goers. What is a Japanese otaku? And what about these wotagei dances that they do?

What is an Otaku?

Otaku are people with a strong interest in a particular subject and love consuming things and experiences related to this interest. In English, you might call an otaku a ‘nerd’ or a ‘fan’, but it is a little more nuanced and specific in Japan. There are many types of otaku, and most of them are into a specific type of manga, anime, or game. J-pop idols are also a common subject of otaku love. But it can also be about something completely different, like trains, a specific country, a type of plant, or even manhole covers. For almost everything, there is a group of devoted otaku.

While there used to be a social stigma surrounding otaku, nowadays, almost half of the Japanese youth identifies as an otaku. The stereotype is that otaku are socially awkward and sometimes even anti-social, but this is definitely not always true. Many of them might not be into mainstream stuff, but amongst each other, they find a community and social support. Most otaku also grow out of their hobby as they get older. Although there are of course also many who stick with their fandom for life. In modern-day Japan, there is thankfully not too much shame in that anymore.

The Basics of Wotagei Dance

As mentioned before, J-pop idols often have a (large) otaku following. Their fans tend to be so devoted that they attend concerts multiple times per year and are involved in a fan club. Girl groups like AKB48 tend to have the most loyal following of mainly male fans. So it is at their concerts that you are most likely to see wotagei dance carried out. The coordinated group dance has likely evolved from the aforementioned cheer dances that are done at school sports games. At games, the dances give the audience the feeling that they are 1 group. And at concerts, fans can show their love and support to their idol this way.

The dances tend to be simple, no complex movements are involved as everyone needs to be able to do them. Complexity can be compared to aerobic dance moves, as long as you’ve practiced them a few times you will be good to go. So that is what good fans do, they practice the dance moves at home with YouTube videos or dedicated blogs. This way, they can happily participate when it’s concert time.

There are a few elements of the dance, which are simple movements, claps, and shouts. Another very important element is a colored light stick that you can buy in any 100 yen shop or at the event itself. These light sticks are called ‘cyalume’ in Japan. If you are a fan of a particular idol, she will usually have her own designated color. By choosing a light stick with her color, you can show her your love in a very clear way. The light sticks are shaken to the rhythm of the music and create a magical sight together, especially during large concerts.

Types of Wotagei Dance

There are several wotagei dance choreographies, and some of them are very common. These routines are called ‘waza’. If you want to look like an ‘Akihabara native’, it is a great idea to learn the Romance and the Thunder Snake waza. These are the most popular waza in Japan, and are a part of the basic waza group.

Once you have gotten used to the basic waza you can level up your skills by learning so-called torch waza as well. Torch waza see you make circles with your left and right arm at different speeds. This makes torch waza much more difficult than basic waza. But if you really want to show your fellow fans and the idols your devotion, learning this is a good way to do so!

Where Can I Do Wotagei?

Did you get enthusiastic while reading this? We have to be a bit honest and tell you that Wotagei is pretty underground and that the fan base is shrinking in the 2020s. But if you still want to put your skills out there after practicing in your room for hours, the best way to do so is to attend an AKB48 concert. In order to do this, you need to go to the Donki store in Akihabara and buy a ticket on the ground floor. You can then proceed to the 8th floor where the magic happens. This is the official website of the AKB48 theater.

Sometimes you can see teenagers dance wotagei in small groups in Tokyo in the evening, although you have to be lucky to run into them. But if you see kids doing simple dances with colorful light sticks in parks at some point, then you will now know what they are doing!

Your Japan Tour

As seasoned Japan experts, we create perfect Japan package tours including destinations related to subcultures. Check out our group tours and private tours, or contact us to start planning your unforgettable holiday to this fascinating country full of once-in-a-lifetime experiences, culture, history, nature, and delicious food!

The post Wotagei a Cheer Dance of Japanese Otaku Fans first appeared on Japan City Tour | Travel agency in Tokyo.]]> 18608 https://japancitytour.com/doraemon/ https://japancitytour.com/doraemon/#respond Mon, 22 Mar 2021 01:02:44 +0000 https://www.tctour.co.jp/?p=17786 Doraemon is one of the most popular manga and anime series among kids in Japan. It is the story of an unmotivated boy and cat-shaped robot who came from the future. Let's find out more about the setting and story!

The post The Story of Doraemon | Very popular anime in Japan first appeared on Japan City Tour | Travel agency in Tokyo.]]> Home › information › Anime, Manga and Game Guide

The Doraemon manga by Fujiko F. Fujio first appeared around 1969 in children’s magazines, and over the decades more short stories have continued to be collected, including in the Doraemon+ volumes.

The manga spawned three television adaptations: the first in 1973, another in 1979, and the current long-running version which began in 2005 and continues today.

The first theatrical film was Nobita’s Dinosaur (1980), and since then more than forty films have been made. The latest, released in 2025, is Doraemon : Nobita’s Art World Tales, the 44th in the series.

The manga was translated into many foreign languages and published in many countries. The anime also has been broadcast in many countries. So, it is loved by many people around the world.

Story of Doraemon

It all starts on a New Year’s Day, when Doraemon suddenly appears from the drawer of Nobita’s desk. Doraemon comes from the future, and is with Nobita’s great-great-grandson, Sewashi. He has a problem with heavy debt caused by the bankruptcy of Nobita’s company. Sewashi came from the 22nd century to see Nobita to change the future, and he brought Doraemon to look after him.

Nobita is an unmotivated and lazy elementary schoolboy. He is often bullied by Jaian who is the boss of the kids. Jaian has Suneo, a luck-pusher, in tow. Doraemon has a four-dimensional pocket in his belly and he takes out various secret gadgets to save Nobita in any crisis. But Nobita has a tendency to overuse the gadgets which creates a backlash. He likes Shizuka, a kind-hearted girl. They may get married in the future.

What is the reason why children have loved this manga for such a long time? I think it is the lovable appearance and character of Doraemon, as well as the sympathy they feel for Nobita.

Doraemon Secret Gadgets

Every story has its own secret gadget, and it is said the total number of gadgets is over 2,000. Here are some popular gadgets that appear throughout the series several times.

Takecopter: ‘Take’ means ‘bamboo’ in Japanese and ‘copter’ comes from the word ‘helicopter’. If you put the takecopter on your head, you can fly.
Dokodemo-door: It means ‘anyplace-door’. It is a portable door that takes you to any places in the world you wish to go.
Time machine: It is in the drawer of Nobita’s desk. You can go either to the future or to the past.
Copy Robot: If you press its nose, you can make a copy of yourself. It first appeared in Fujiko’s other manga “Perman”.

Fujiko F Fujio

Fujiko F Fujio (real name: Hiroshi Fujimoto) was a manga creator and screenwriter who lived from 1933 to 1996. He was born in Takaoka City, Toyama Prefecture. He created a partnership called ‘Fujikofujio’ with Fujiko Fujio A (real name: Motoo Abiko) who was born in Himi City, in the same Toyama Prefecture. They were classmates in elementary school and they always played together.

Other famous manga they created are “Obakeno Kyutaro (Little Ghost Q-Taro)”, “Perman”, “Ninja Hattori-kun” and “Kaibutsu-kun (The Monster Kid)”

Fujiko F Fujio Museum

Fujiko F. Fujio Museum opened in 2011 in Kawasaki City, Kanagawa Prefecture. The museum showcases the original drawings, storyboards, and related materials created by Fujiko F. Fujio, the legendary manga artist best known for Doraemon.

The museum was established through a collaboration between his wife, Fujiko F. Fujio Production, and Kawasaki City, where the artist had lived for 35 years. In addition to the exhibits, visitors can watch a short original anime film available only at the museum’s theater.

Audio guides are available in four languages: Japanese, English, Chinese, and Korean.

Access: 10 minutes ride on the bus from Noborito Station of JR Nanbu Line. If you want to walk, it is 15 minutes from Mukogaoka-Yuen Station (Odakyu Line) or Shukugawara Station (JR Nanbu Line).

Entrance: 1,000 yen for adults / 700 yen for junior and senior high school students / 500 yen for over 4 years old to elementary school student
Hours : 10 am – 6 pm
*You need a reservation through the Loppi machine. These machines can be found in the Lawson convenience stores. They limit the number of visitors per day up to 2,000.

Takaoka City Museum

This is an art museum in Takaoka City, the birthplace of Fujiko F Fujio. Their main exhibitions are metal works and Japanese paintings. Later they added the Fujiko F Fujio Gallery in 2015 to exhibit his works. You can see Doraemon statues in several places in the city, for example in front of Takaoka Station.

Access: 2-minute walk from Ecchu-Nakagawa Station of JR Himi Line. Or a 20-minute walk from Takaoka Station
Entrance: The entrance fee varies depending on the exhibition.
Hours : 9.00 am – 5 pm

A Personal Impression

I highly recommend adding the Fujiko F. Fujio Museum to any anime fan’s itinerary, and if you can, book with Japan City Tour’s anime-custom tours. They made everything smooth, flexible, and personal. Our guide Shino brought the world of Doraemon to life in a way no guidebook ever could.
Whether you grew up watching Doraemon or are just curious about Japanese manga culture, this place is pure magic.

Recommended Tours

・Tokyo Anime Private Tour Package 7 days
・The Best of Japan Private Tour Package 7 Days
・The Best of Japan Pop Culture Tour Package 10 Days

Your Japan Tour

As seasoned Japan experts, we can help you create your perfect Japan tour including guides who can tell you all about Japanese manga and anime. The guide can take you to the Fujiko F Fujio Museum or Gallery if you wish. Contact us to start planning your unforgettable holiday to this fascinating country. Japan is full of once-in-a-lifetime experiences, culture, history, nature, and delicious food!

Neon Genesis EVANGELION (新世紀エヴァンゲリオン) is a popular Japanese anime franchise, but it wasn’t always like that. The series was even a bit controversial during its early days, but audiences slowly grew to love it. What is it that captivated people so much that made the series into a sleeper hit?

History of Neon Genesis EVANGELION

The 26 stories were broadcast on TV every week in 1995 and 1996, and the audience was small at that time. It was broadcast at a time when kids could watch it. There were a lot of arguments about the anime because it was too extreme and unconventional compared to other anime in the eyes of some. The series has a lot of battle scenes, but it also describes the emotions of hero Shinji in life-or-death situations.

One year before the TV anime came out, the manga (comic) of EVANGELION was published in a weekly comic magazine for kids that ran for 18 years until 2013. It was their intentional strategy to publish both a comic and anime. Then they made a feature anime for the movie theater in 1997. They changed the ending, and “Air” and “The End of Evangelion” became the 25th and 26th stories.

From 2007, they created a new series for movie theater release. “Jo or EVANGELION: 1.0 You Are (Not) Alone” in 2007, “Ha or EVANGELION: 2.0 You Can (Not) Advance” in 2009, “Kyu or EVANGELION: 3.0 You Can (Not) Redo” and finally “New Theater Version or EVANGELION: 3.0 + 1.0 Thrice Upon a Time” in 2021. These four parts have been renewed with different settings and stories.

Hideaki Anno

The director of EVANGELION for both the TV and theater anime is Hideaki Anno. Born in 1960, he has loved anime and tokusatsu (filming with many special effects) since his childhood. Anno was the manager of an art club, and he already made a film when he was still a high school student. He continued his studies at Osaka University of Art while he worked in the anime field as a part-timer. Anno quit university because he thought it was more important to create his work instead of staying there as a student with unmotivated friends.

Then he moved to Tokyo, and there he worked on several anime projects as an animator. When he joined the making of “Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind”, director Hayao Miyazaki of Studio Ghibli appreciated his talent. It was at that time that he got the chance to direct several TV anime series before creating EVANGELION.

He also made several live-action movies such as ‘Shin Godzilla’ in 2016. Anno received many awards for EVANGELION, and his Shin Godzilla was chosen as the best movie of the year by the Japan Academy Award commission.

EVANGELION Story

The earth lost half of its human population from the Second Impact, a meteor hit, in the year 2000. 15 years later, the main character Shinji Ikari, a 14-year old junior high school student was called by his father Gendo who lived elsewhere. Gendo is the captain-general of NERV, which is a secret organization of the United Nations. NERV is in the city Tokyo-3 because the original Tokyo was completely destroyed by the Second Impact.

After moving the capital to Matsumoto in Nagano as a temporary capital, they moved it to the Hakone area. Shinji was ordered by his father to be a pilot of a giant bio-machine called EVANGELION Unit-01 to fight with an unknown enemy called Shito, or Angels.

He doesn’t want to be a pilot because he has no experience, but he saw a young girl named Rei Ayanami, who was the pilot of Unit-00, get injured. So he reluctantly goes aboard. He goes on to defeat a Shito against all odds and decides to continue his mission. Soon after, Soryu Asuka Langley comes from Germany to be the pilot of Unit-02. They start to collaborate and defeat many Shito one after another.

The Story’s Ending

But then one day, Unit-03 is brought from the USA, parasitized by Shito. Shinji hesitates to fight it because his friend Tojii is on it, but Gendo controls Shinji’s EVANGELION using a so-called dummy system. Gendo and Shinji win, but Toji loses one of his legs. Shinji gets so shocked by this event that he quits being a pilot.

But then, when the very strong Shito 14 appears, Rei and Asuka are defeated and Shinji decides to be a pilot once more. He goes on to win the fight. During the fight with Shito 15 and 16, Asuka was psychologically damaged and Rei was killed. A new pilot appeared, Kaoru Nagisa, but he was actually Shito 17, the last Shito. Shinji feels bad about it, but he finally kills him.

The last two episodes are made differently in the TV anime and the movie. Please enjoy two different endings.

Many songs have been used for the anime series. The most popular one is “Zankokuna Tenshi no Teze” or “A Cruel Angel’s Thesis” in English. It was used as the theme song for the TV series. The singer is Yoko Takahashi.

EVANGELION Store

You can easily find figurines of EVANGELION characters in anime-related shops in places like Akihabara, Nakano Broadway, and so on. There are also six EVANGELION stores in Japan. You can also find more paraphernalia besides figurines such as T-shirts, stationery, and sweets.

1.EVANGELION STORE TOKYO-01 (Ikebukuro, Tokyo)
2.EVANGELION STORE SHINJUKU (Shinjuku, Tokyo)
3.EVANGELION OSAKA (Namba, Osaka)
4.EVANGELION HAKATA (Hakata, Fukuoka)
5.HAKONE EVA-YA (at Hakone-Yumoto Station, Kanagawa)
6.RADIO EVA STORE (Shibuya, Tokyo)

Recommended Tours

・Tokyo Anime Private Tour Package 7 days
・The Best of Japan Private Tour Package 7 Days
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Your Japan Tour

As seasoned Japan experts, we can help you create your perfect Japan tour including guides who can tell you all about EVANGELION and other anime. The guide can take you to the places where you can buy character goods or to Hakone, the setting of Tokyo-3, if you wish. Contact us to start planning your unforgettable holiday to this fascinating country. Japan is full of once-in-a-lifetime experiences, culture, history, nature, and delicious food!

Extremely Popular Manga

The manga series started in 2009 on the Bessatsu Shonen Magazine, which is an additional volume of Shonen Magazine. This is one of the famous weekly comic magazines for children besides Shonen Jump. It has become an independent manga book series in 2010, and two volumes exceeded the sales of 1 million. Moreover, the total sales topped 100 million in 2019. It has become TV anime in 2013 and it has increased its readership. Increasing the franchise’s popularity even further, the first related anime movie was made in 2014. Two live-action films were made in 2015.

The series has been also a big hit in foreign countries, especially in South Korea and the United States.

Hajime Isayama

Attack on Titan is created by young cartoonist Hajime Isayama. He learned drawing manga at the Manga department of Kyushu Design Gakuin school in Fukuoka. Several other famous manga artists graduated from the school.

He was awarded an honorable mention of the Magazine Grand-Prix by Kodansha publishing company. This was for the one-shot story of Shingeki no Kyojin. He was only 20 years old at that time. Then Isayama got a special award in the ‘New Face’ contest for his work “Heart Break One” by Shonen Magazine in 2008. Then the editor of the magazine asked him to write a serialized story for Shingeki no Kyojin. That was the start of his great success.

He was born in the small city of Oita Prefecture in Kyushu called Hita. Hita is a basin surrounded by the high mountains and he dreamed of the world beyond the mountains when he was a child. It is said that this experience in his childhood influenced the creation of the story of Shingeki no Kyojin.

The setting of the manga is a small city surrounded by high walls which prevent attacks by giants. When you go to Hita, you can see the bronze statues of the three main characters of the story. Eren, Mikasa, and Armin are in front of the high wall of the Oyama Dam. They seem to be looking up the wall.

Another occurrence that influenced his work happened while he was working at an internet café. He encountered a violent customer who grabbed him by the collar. He felt “the fear of meeting a person I cannot communicate with”. This experience led him to create the giants.

Story of Attack on Titan

Gigantic creatures suddenly appeared on the earth and attacked people and ate them. At that time, most human beings were killed and small numbers of survivors built threefold high walls around the city. The walls were to prevent any future attack. They could live peacefully for 100 years.

The main character is a boy Eren Yeager. In the year 845, when he was ten years old, the outermost wall was destroyed by a giant, and his mother was killed. He vowed revenge on the giants and decided to join the military with his childhood friends Mikasa Ackerman and Armin Arlert. In the military, they learned how to use the Omni-Directional Mobility Gear. This is a set of waist-mounted grappling hooks and gas-powered propulsion which enables great mobility in three dimensions.

During their first battle, Eren found out that he had the mysterious ability to change himself into a giant. But he did not lose his consciousness and never hurt people. The military tried to use his ability to restore the damaged wall. Through the battle against the giants, Eren and his company not only defended their land. But they also try to reveal the mysteries about the giants, their civilization, and what lies outside the walls.

Attack on Titan-Themed Rides

Because the manga was such a big hit, several amusement parks in Japan made temporary attractions using characters of Shingeki no Kyojin. Big models of the giants had a great impact and attracted customers to the parks. Imagine having read and enjoyed the series and then immersing yourself in that world completely!

Popular amusement parks such as Fuji-Q Highland in Kawaguchiko, Universal Studio Japan in Osaka, and Joypolis in Tokyo have featured rides related to Attack on Titan.

Your Japan Tour

As seasoned Japan experts, we can help you create your perfect Japan tour including guides who can tell you all about Attack on Titan. The guide can take you to the attractive sightseeing spots of Hita, the birthplace of the cartoonist if you wish. Contact us to start planning your unforgettable holiday to this fascinating country. Japan is full of once-in-a-lifetime experiences, culture, history, nature, and delicious food!

The Start of It All

Pocket Monster, also known as Pokemon, was born in 1996 as a computer game for the Game Boy. It was developed by Game Freak Inc. and sold by Nintendo, one of the world’s biggest game makers. The series was a great hit and spread among elementary students by word-of-mouth.

It includes important elements that make games popular, which are “collection, training, fighting, and exchange”. Because of its success, they made a TV anime, movies, manga (comic), character goods, card games, arcade games, and so on. The game software has been sold more than 300 million times including all countries. By the way, the number one game sales record is for Super Mario, which was sold more than 500 million times worldwide.

The TV anime already started in the following year in 1997, and it has been also a big hit all over the world. The Pokemon characters are a very important part of both the game and the anime. There were 151 species in the beginning, but they have increased to 898 species as of 2021.

Pokemon GO

Pokemon GO is a computer game that was released in 2016. It was developed by Pokemon Inc and American company Niantic Inc, and helped by Nintendo. To play it, you don’t have to buy special hardware, but you can install an app on your smartphone (Android and iOS). It uses AR (augmented reality) and your phone’s GPS function. If you choose AR mode, Pokemon seem to appear in the real world. The game uses famous places that exist in real life and 7/11 stores as Poke Stops, at which you can get tools such as monster balls.

It was listed in 5 categories in Guinness World Records. One of them is the most downloaded mobile game in the first month. Now, it is played in more than 150 countries. When it was first released in Japan, a lot of young people were wandering the streets of Japan to find Pokemons. It was good in some way, as many gamers always played games in their rooms. They never went out, which is not good for their health, but they finally started to walk outside.

It caused many problems, however; too many people gathered in particular places to catch special Pokemon. Also, many people played when they were driving. People who were playing in sacred places such as Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples caused annoyance. Now they changed some rules such as you cannot play when you move faster than at walking speed. Ever since there have been few problems.

The Story of Pokemon

The setting is a world where various Pokemons live, with the main character being a boy named Satoshi. He wants to be the best Pokemon trainer. When he started practicing to become a Pokemon trainer, he made Pikachu his main partner. Pikachu was mischievous and Satoshi couldn’t control him at first, but they have become good friends after fighting against big sparrows together.

He started an adventurous journey with Pikachu and catches other Pokemons and fights with other trainers on the way. When a trainer catches a Pokemon, they put it in a capsule called ‘monster ball’. There is a team of bad guys called Rocket-dan (Team Rocket) which consists of a man Musashi, a woman Kojiro, and a cat Pokemon Nyaasu (Meowth in English). Their boss is Sakaki, and they often appear to prevent Satoshi’s adventures.

Major Pocket Monsters

There are nearly 900 Pocket Monsters. Each individual has its own characteristics; size, weight, technic, HP (horsepower), CP (combat power), evolution ability. They are also a type such as water, earth, flying, poison, etc. Interestingly, the English names of many of the popular monsters are different from their Japanese ones, except for some monsters like Pikachu.

Pikachu: He is the most popular Pokemon among the 900, not only because he is the partner of Satoshi, but he is cute looking. Pikachu can only say “Pika pika”, but he can communicate with Satoshi. This yellow friend can generate a lightning bolt.

Three monsters appeared in the first monsters:

Fushigidane (Bulbasaur): This is a poisonous plant that evolutes from the seed to the grass Fushigiso (Ivysaur) and the flower Fushigidane (Venusaur).

Hitokage (Charmander): a fire-type lizard that evolutes to Rizard (Charmelon) and Rizardon (Charizard)

Zenigame (Squirtle): Ia water type turtle that evolutes to Kameru (Wartortle) and Kamekkusu (Blastoise)

Other Popular Pokemons

Eevee: this is a normal type that can evolute to 8 different monsters such as Showers (Vaporeon), Thunders (Jolteon) and Booster (Flareon).

Kairyu (Dragonite): a flying dragon who evolutes from Miniryu (Dratini) and Hakuryu (Dragonair).

Mewtwo: It is the main character in the movie ‘Pokemon: Mewtwo Strikes Back!’, the first Pokemon movie.

Pokemon Centers and Pokemon Stores

A Pokemon Center is an official shop that sells a variety of Pokemon goods such as character goods, game software, and card games. The Pokemon Store is more casual and smaller than the Pokemon Center. There are 29 shops all over Japan as of 2021, and here is a list of the locations of the shops.

Pokemon Centers in Northern Japan

*Pokemon Center Sapporo (Hokkaido)
*Pokemon Store Shin-Chitose Airport (Hokkaido)
*Pokemon Center Tohoku (Sendai City, Miyagi)

Pokemon Centers in Tokyo/Kanagawa/Chiba

*Pokemon Center Tokyo DX & Pokemon Café (Nihonbashi, Tokyo)
*Pokemon Center Mega Tokyo & Pikachu Sweets (Ikebukuro, Tokyo)
*Pokemon Center Shibuya (Tokyo)
*Pokemon Center Skytree Town (Tokyo)
*Pokemon Store Tokyo Station (Tokyo)
*Pokemon Center Yokohama (Kanagawa)
*Pokemon Center Tokyo Bay (Funabashi, Chiba)
*Pokemon Store Outlet (Kisarazu, Chiba)
*Pokemon Store Narita Airport (Chiba)

Pokemon Centers in Central Japan

*Pokemon Center Nagoya (Aichi)
*Pokemon Center Chubu International Aiport (Aichi)
*Pokemon Center Kanazawa (Ishikawa)
*Pokemon Center Gotenba (Shizuoka)
*Pokemon Center Kyoto (Kyoto)
*Pokemon Center Osaka DX & Pokemon Café (Shinsaibashi, Osaka)
*Pokemon Center Osaka (Umeda, Osaka)
*Pokemon Store Itami Airport (Osaka)
*Pokemon Store Kansai Airport (Osaka)

Western/Southern Japan

*Pokemon Center Hiroshima (Hiroshima)
*Pokemon Store Aeon Mall Okayama (Okayama)
*Pokemon Store Emiful Masaki (Iyogun, Ehime)
*Pokemon Center Fukuoka (Fukuoka)
*Pokemon Store Amu-Plaza Oita (Oita)
*Pokemon Store Amu-Plaza Kagoshima (Kagoshima)
*Pokemon Store Depart-Liubou (Naha, Okinawa)
*Pokemon Store Aeon Mall Okinawa Raikamu (Okinawa)

Your Japan Tour

As seasoned Japan experts, we can help you create your perfect Japan tour including guides. They can tell you all about Pokemon games, anime, and character goods. The guide can take you to Pokemon stores if you wish. Contact us to start planning your unforgettable holiday to this fascinating country. Japan is full of once-in-a-lifetime experiences, culture, history, nature, and delicious food!

Is one of the reasons you are heading to Japan buying anime and manga related goods? Then Jump Shop should be at the top of your list! If you don’t know what Jump Shop is, keep reading to find out more about this anime and manga paradise and where to find it in Tokyo and elsewhere.

Shonen Jump Magazine

Weekly Shonen Jump is a manga magazine published by Shueisha that has been entertaining fans since 1968. Originally a biweekly publication, it became a weekly magazine in 1969 and quickly rose to become the most influential manga magazine in Japan.

The magazine’s themes are famously built around three core ideas: friendship, effort, and victory — a formula that continues to attract younger readers. While its main audience is boys aged 10 to 15, its stories have reached far beyond that, captivating teenagers and adults alike.
Iconic series like Dragon Ball and Naruto helped shape generations of fans, while more recent hits like Demon Slayer (Kimetsu no Yaiba) have brought new life and global recognition to the magazine.

At its peak in the 1990s, Weekly Shonen Jump sold over 6.5 million copies per week — a number that remains legendary in the world of publishing.

Popular Comics from Shonen Jump

There are a lot of popular comics from Shonen Jump. You may recognize many of them if you are an anime fan.

・Kochira Katsushikaku Kamearikoenmae Hashutsujo: This is the story of a funky but lovable policeman Ryotsu Kankichi. The series lasted for 40 years. It is listed in the Guinness World Record.
・Hokuto no Ken: This is a fighting story. The hero Kenshiro’s signature line “You are already dead” became popular among children. It became a TV anime.
・Dr. Slump: Main character Norimaki Arare is an android made by inventor Senbei. This funny story became a TV anime.
・Jojo no Kimyona Boken (Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure): The theme of the manga is “a paean to humans”. This is the century-lasting fighting story of the Joestar family and Vampires. It was not made for children.
・Shokugeki no Soma: This is the story of Soma, a student of a cooking school. Competing by cooking technique, the expressions of people who eat his delicious food are famously funny.

Famous Abroad

These are the Shonen Jump comics that are also famous abroad:

・Dragon Ball: This is one of the most popular anime in foreign countries. Main character Goku is a fighter who trains himself and participates in fighting tournaments.
・Yugioh: High school boy Yugi got another personality in himself by solving an ancient Egyptian puzzle. He challenges bad guys to a game in which the loser gets a penalty.
・One Piece: Boy Luffy is the main character of One Piece. He wants to be the king of pirates by finding a treasure called One Piece. It is one of the most popular manga and anime now.
・Naruto: This is a battle action story about Ninjas who use supernatural powers. The hero Uzumaki Naruto doesn’t always fight, but he persuades the enemy through dialogue.
・Kimetsu no Yaiba (Demon Slayer): This story of Kimetsu no Yaiba is about a boy Kamado Tanjiro who fights with demons to save his sister who was bitten by a demon. The newly released movie topped the record of animation movies in Japan.

The First Jump Shop

The very first Jump Shop opened in Tokyo at Tokyo Dome City in 2004. Tokyo Dome City is the complex of Tokyo Dome baseball stadium, amusement park, a spa, shops, and restaurants. This shop was very successful, so they started to open shops all over Japan.
You can buy character goods from the manga and the anime series that are described above. There are figures, key chains, comic books, games, snacks, T-shirts, posters, stationeries with character design, etc. If you are a fan of Japanese manga or anime, I am sure you will find what you are looking for.

Location of Jump Shop

There are permanent stores and temporary stores for festivals or in the summer season. Here’s a list of locations and the nearest stations of permanent stores.

Tokyo : Tokyo Dome City (Korakuen, Kasuga or Suidobashi stations), Tokyo Station as one of the shops of Tokyo Character Street (Tokyo station), Tokyo Skytree Town (Tokyo Skytree or Oshiage stations), Shibuya Parco (Shibuya station), Aqua City Odaiba (Daiba station)

Osaka : Hep Five Umeda (Osaka or Umeda station), Daimaru Department Store (Shinsaibashi station)

Other Cities : Yokohama Landmark Plaza (Minatomirai and Sakuragicho station), Nagoya Oasis 21 (Sakae, Sakaemachi and Hisayaodori station), Ario Kurashiki (Kurashiki station), Hiroshima Kishodo (Hacchobori and Tachimachi station), Sendai Parco (Sendai station), Hakata Canal City (Fukuoka, Gion and Nakasukawabata station)

Please note that there used to be a theme park of anime called J-World that was unfortunately closed in 2019. They had the same concept as Jump Shop, the park of the manga and anime characters from Shonen Jump magazine.

Recommended Tours

・Tokyo Anime Private Tour Package 7 days
・The Best of Japan Private Tour Package 7 Days
・The Best of Japan Pop Culture Tour Package 10 Days

Your Japan Tour

As seasoned Japan experts, we can help you create your perfect Japan tour including guides who can tell you all about manga and anime. The guide can take you to one of the Jump Shop or any anime-related places if you wish. Contact us to start planning your unforgettable holiday to this fascinating country. Japan is full of once-in-a-lifetime experiences, culture, history, nature, and delicious food!

Record-Breaking Manga

The comic has become an independent book and the volume has become 97 in September 2020. It was registered in the Guinness World Record as the most printed comic series made by one author ever in 2015. The number of total books is about 400 million! It has been written and illustrated by Eiichiro Oda.

One Piece became an anime for TV in 1999 by Toei Animation and it has been continuing ever since. It became an anime for movie theaters, too. Between 2000 to 2019, 14 movies were released.

Story of One Piece

One Piece is the story of an adventurous boy, Monkey D. Luffy. The main theme is an adventure toward a dream and friendship. In the past, there was a King of Pirates called Gold Roger who obtained everything on earth. Now, many pirates are trying to find the treasure called “One Piece” that Roger left. The Age of Discovery has begun.

When Luffy was little, he made friends with a pirate named Red-haired Shanks. One day he was thrown into the ocean by the bad guys and almost eaten by an enormous fish, then Shank saved him, losing one of his arms. When Luffy left the village, Shanks gave him a straw hat and Luffy swore that he would be an authentic pirate and meet him again. This is how Luffy’s adventure started. He explores the Grand Line in search of “One Piece” to be the next King of Pirates.

Then Luffy ate gomugomuno-mi, or devil fruit, and his body gained the properties of rubber. He often fights with his opponent making the most of his rubber body. The boy makes a lot of friends during his journey and they sail together. These crew members are called Straw Hat Pirates. Let us introduce some of Luffy’s most important friends!

Friends of Luffy

Roronoa Zoro

Luffy’s first crew. He is a professional swordman using three swords, two in his hands and one in his mouth. Roronoa has a samurai’s spirit.

Nami

She is a beautiful lady who used to be a thief stealing treasures only from pirates. Nami loves money and treasures. She wants to draw a world ocean map.

Usopp

He is timid and a luck-pusher. Usopp is a good sling shooter. He wants to be a strong fighter in the ocean like his father.

Sanji

He is a cook. Sanji fights only using his legs to not damage his hands which are indispensable for cooking. He really loves girls.

Tony Tony Chopper

He is a ship doctor. Tony Tony is a reindeer-human. After eating Hitohitono-mi, he has gained the ability of a human being. He wants to be an allround doctor.

Nico Robin

She is a beautiful archeologist. Nico wants to find out the history of the lost 100 years. She didn’t trust others because of her past trauma, but she trusts Luffy for the first time.

Franky

He is a carpenter and cyborg who has weapons in his body. Franky wants to build a ship and wants to see the end of the ocean.

Brook

He is a musician. He died but brought back to life as a skeleton by eating Yomiyomino-mi.

One Pieced Themed Places in Japan

Pirate Restaurant

This is a restaurant in the theme park Huistenbosch in Nagasaki Prefecture. The interior of the restaurant looks like a pirate ship. You can have the food that appeared in the story such as Gomugomuno-mi and omelet-rice which looks like Luffy’s straw hat.

Straw Hat Crew’s Feast Restaurant (temporary in summer)

This is a restaurant in theme park Universal Studios Japan in Osaka Prefecture. The names of the dishes are very unique. For example, Luffy’s Meat Plate “Wow! Looks delicious!” and Zoro’s Chicken Plate “Well…It’s Good. Eh?”.

There is another One Piece restaurant that opens temporarily in summer in the park named Sanji’s Pirates Restaurant. It is a more upscale restaurant that serves a course menu.

Jump Shop

Jump Shop is a souvenir shop that sells character goods from the comic book Shonen Jump. There are several Jump Shops in Japan. For example, Tokyo, Yokohama, Osaka, Nagoya, Sendai, Kurashiki, Hiroshima, and Fukuoka. Some shops open temporally at festivals. You can find goods not only from One Piece but also from Dragon Ball, Naruto, and Kimetsu no Yaiba.

Your Japan Tour

As seasoned Japan experts, we can help you create your perfect Japan tour including guides who can tell you all about manga and anime including One Piece. The guide can take you to places related to One Piece. Contact us to start planning your unforgettable holiday to this fascinating country. Japan is full of once-in-a-lifetime experiences, culture, history, nature, and delicious food!