Hienadz Vardanyan 
Akihabara, also known as “Electric Town,” is famous for its vibrant mix of electronics, anime, and pop culture. While it might seem like a paradise for tech enthusiasts and otaku, Akihabara also offers plenty of family-friendly attractions and activities that kids will love. Here’s a guide to discovering Akihabara with kids, highlighting the top spots and activities for a fun-filled family adventure.
1. Akihabara Radio Kaikan
Why It’s Great:
- Diverse Shops: Akihabara Radio Kaikan is a multi-story building packed with shops selling toys, model kits, anime merchandise, and collectibles.
- Interactive Experiences: Many shops have displays and hands-on activities that are perfect for kids.
Highlights:
- Anime Goods: Explore a wide variety of anime figures, plushies, and themed merchandise from popular series.
- Model Kits: Check out model kits of robots, cars, and planes, with some shops offering assembly demonstrations.
Tips:
- Set a Budget: With so many enticing items, it’s easy to overspend. Set a budget beforehand to keep the shopping under control.
- Take Breaks: The building can be overwhelming, so take breaks to rest and regroup.
2. Akihabara Gachapon Kaikan
Why It’s Great:
- Gachapon Machines: This shop features hundreds of gachapon (capsule toy) machines, each offering a unique surprise toy inside.
- Affordable Fun: Gachapon toys are typically inexpensive, making it a fun and affordable activity for kids.
Highlights:
- Variety of Toys: From anime characters to quirky miniatures, the variety of toys available in the gachapon machines is astounding.
- Collectible Items: Kids can collect a series of related toys, adding to the excitement.
Tips:
- Set Limits: Give each child a set number of coins to spend on gachapon to keep the activity fun and budget-friendly.
- Bring a Bag: Bring a small bag to carry all the capsule toys the kids collect.
3. Yodobashi Camera Akihabara
Why It’s Great:
- Interactive Sections: Yodobashi Camera is a massive electronics store with dedicated sections for toys, games, and interactive displays.
- Hands-On Fun: Kids can try out the latest video games, play with toy drones, and explore other fun gadgets.
Highlights:
- Game Section: The store’s game section features the latest consoles and games, often with demo stations for playing.
- Toy Floor: The toy floor includes action figures, LEGO sets, and educational toys.
Tips:
- Allocate Time: The store is huge, so allocate enough time to explore the different sections.
- Stay Together: It’s easy to get separated, so keep an eye on the kids and stay together.
4. Akihabara UDX
Why It’s Great:
- Dining and Entertainment: Akihabara UDX is a complex offering a variety of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options.
- Kid-Friendly Restaurants: Many restaurants have kid-friendly menus and atmospheres.
Highlights:
- Gundam Café: Enjoy a meal at the Gundam Café, themed around the popular anime series, with unique dishes and décor.
- Events and Exhibitions: Check the schedule for family-friendly events and exhibitions held at the UDX Theater.
Tips:
- Meal Planning: Plan meal times to coincide with visits to themed cafes or restaurants to make the dining experience fun for kids.
- Event Check: Look for special events that might be happening during your visit.
5. Mandarake Complex
Why It’s Great:
- Treasure Trove: Mandarake is a giant store selling second-hand manga, anime merchandise, toys, and collectibles.
- Nostalgic Fun: The store offers a nostalgic trip for parents and a discovery adventure for kids.
Highlights:
- Manga and Comics: Explore an extensive collection of manga and comics, with sections dedicated to different genres and age groups.
- Vintage Toys: Find vintage toys and rare collectibles that are fun to browse.
Tips:
- Browsing Time: Give kids time to browse and explore the different sections, as there is a lot to see.
- Budget-Friendly: Shopping second-hand can be more budget-friendly, so kids might find more within their allowance.
6. Akihabara Electric Town
Why It’s Great:
- Cultural Experience: Walking around Akihabara Electric Town offers a sensory overload with its neon lights, bustling shops, and street performers.
- Street Performers: Enjoy the entertainment from street performers, cosplayers, and promotional events.
Highlights:
- Arcades: Visit one of the many arcades, such as Sega Akihabara, for a variety of games suitable for kids and adults.
- Electronics and Gadgets: Explore the many electronic shops selling everything from the latest gadgets to quirky electronics.
Tips:
- Keep Close: The area can be crowded, so keep kids close and establish meeting points in case you get separated.
- Photo Opportunities: Take advantage of the many photo opportunities with cosplayers and themed shop fronts.
Conclusion
Akihabara offers a wealth of family-friendly activities and attractions that kids will love. From exploring toy and anime shops to enjoying interactive experiences and themed cafes, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant district. Plan your visit with these top spots and activities in mind, and discover the fun-filled adventures awaiting you and your kids in Akihabara.
