Shopping in Akihabara

Under the train tracks

The roads underneath the train tracks are the best place for used electronics and small trinkets. Film cameras are especially popular and much cheaper than the photography stores around town. From old flip phones to walkie talkies to watches, the electronics geek can find anything their heart desires under the train tracks. The hundreds of miniscule shops show a historic side to the modern neon glitz of Akihabara. There is no otaku or anime culture to be found under the train tracks, it is dedicated solely to vintage electronics and hobbyists. The stores are a stark contrast to the newer electronic chain stores and skyscrapers that dominate the city now. Grab some cheap electronics parts and experience a historic part of Akihabara. However, these items are very much used and might not be in the best condition. Be sure to double check or ask the store clerk to make sure the product is in working condition.

Under the train tracks

Don Quixote

Don Quixote is a discount emporium store with locations all throughout Japan. Literally everything is sold in Don Quixote, so customers can purchase bicycles, party decorations, stationery, and groceries all in one go, and normally at a price much cheaper than other large stores. The Akihabara location is especially grand in the souvenir department. Pick up some anime goods or Akihabara t-shirts, which will make for perfect and cheap souvenirs for friends back home. The fifth floor is dedicated to cosplay, the only Don Quixote to do so. Visitors can pick up anime costumes and makeup for a fraction of a price compared to other cosplay stores. The store is also open until 5am, making it a good pit stop after a late night out.

Don Quixote

Don Quijote Akihabara

Tokyo Chiyoda-ku Sotokanda 4-3-3

0352985411

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Gachapon Kaikan

Gachapon are small plastic balls, or capsule toys, that contain souvenirs. They normally cost around 200 yen and are a guaranteed win every time. Gachapon Kaikan is a small store dedicated to gachapons. There are hundreds of these vending machines selling a variety of anime figurines, cute erasers, hats for pets and keychains, amongst much more. Gachapons can be found all over Tokyo but this location has the largest variety of goods. The products tend to change every month, so be sure to continue returning to find the latest seasonal editions.

Gachapon Kaikan

Akihabara Gachapon Hall

3.5

8 Reviews

Tokyo Chiyoda-ku Sotokanda 3-15-5 GEE! STORE Akiba 1F

0352096020

[Weekday]11:00-20:00[SundayP…

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Buso Shoten

Always dreamed of being a samurai and fighting in Heian era Japan? Buso Shoten is the best option for this alternate reality. Buso Shoten provides replicas of Japanese weapons, both medieval and contemporary. Swords are the most popular item but Buso Shoten also specializes in weapons found in modern animes and such western-style weapons as handguns. The products are all well crafted and look very realistic which is surprising for the affordable price and quality. The staff can also provide certificates proving the weapon is a replica: however, be sure to double check with the airline to make sure the weapon is legal to take on board. For those window shopping, it is encouraged to ask permission to touch the weapons when browsing through the store.

Busosho

Tokyo Chiyoda-ku Sotokanda 3-15-7

0332524441

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E-Earphone

A store dedicated to just earphones, E-Earphones provides listening devices from all over the world. There are earphones in every price range, noise level, and color, and listeners are invited to test out sample earphones. Out of the thousands of products offered, be sure to test out different headphones before deciding on a purchase. They can sound very different! There are also used headphones sold at a fraction of the cost.

E-Earphone

E-Earphone (Akihabara Shop)

Tokyo Chiyoda-ku Sotokanda 4-6-7 Kanda Eightville 4F

0332561701

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