Akihabara (often abbreviated to Akiba) is an up and coming part of Tokyo, Japan. It is barely mentioned by current editions of most guidebooks, but is an essential visit for anyone with more than a vague interest in Japanese geek "otaku" culture (computers, electronics, manga, animé, computer games etc.). Akihabara is easily reached from most parts of Tokyo, being on the Yamanote line between Ueno and Tokyo stations, and on the Chuo line from Shinjuku. Even if you're not into geek stuff, there are more than enough wacky things going on to warrant a visit or two. Alongside Harajuku, Akihabara is one of the best places to people watch in Tokyo.
Akihabara, Tokyo, Japan
Akihabara started off as a district of electronics shops (cameras, televisions, etc.) but shifted focus to computers and consumer electronics (particularly mobile phones). Now the emphasis seems to be shifting to entertainment such as DVDs, animé, manga, Gundam robots, Godzilla memorabilia and unidentified goods. If you are interested in anime, manga or Gundam you will not fail to spend a lot of money in one of the many 7 storey stores that sell such goods along the main Chuo Dori thoroughfare. It is great to see manga and animé characters everywhere - they are even used on advertising billboards:
Akihabara is also spawning its own popular culture. Since the first maid café opened in 2000, it has spawned a host of imitations. Maid services have also spread to other areas including opticians, foot massages and beauty parlours. Maids are also to be found posing and advertising a wide range of other otaku goods and services. They instil a general feeling of Moé in the Otaku, which encourages them to spend money.
On Sunday afternoons the Akihabara maids and other assorted promotional girls (and some men) seemed to really enjoy the attention from photographers.
There are a huge number of maid cafés in Akihabara. Not all of them are staffed by maids. The St. Gracecourt café featured cute nuns instead of maids.
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