Akihabara and Ikebukuro are both described as Tokyo otaku holy sites, but treating them as interchangeable is the fastest way to waste a day. These two districts grew from opposite starting points, attracted different kinds of visitors, and built different street logic. Akihabara became a dense, hardware-to-hobby ecosystem that rewards obsession and specialization. Ikebukuro matured … Read more
Tokyo’s fan culture is no longer defined by a single street or a single type of otaku.In 2026, oshi culture led by women has become one of the strongest forces reshaping the city itself. Ikebukuro and Akihabara now function as two complementary hubs. One is built on shared passion, collaboration cafés, and character-driven communities. The other thrives … Read more
The real history behind Otome Road, Animate, theaters, and the city that learned to monetize fandom In front of Animate Ikebukuro, it is common to see fans holding new character goods and talking excitedly in small circles. That everyday scene captures what Ikebukuro has become: a city where fandom is not hidden, not rare, and … Read more