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A favourite stopover city for many travellers, here are some Singapore sights and delights you don't want to miss.
As producers of 60% of the world’s animation, Japanese animation is called distinctively “anime”. Step into the world of technology, magic, and Japanese anime when you take an anime-inspired holiday.
Throughout Japan you’ll find plenty of Otaku destinations, referring to the cultural grouping of anime, gaming, manga, and figurines. Whether you’re a lover of Pokémon or a One Piece fanatic, Japan has got you covered with unique anime experiences including popular shopping districts, detailed museums, theme parks and activities that bring anime to life.
Not sure where to start? Bookmark this guide for your travels.
Shopping
Looking to take home authentic anime souvenirs? There’s no better place than the dedicated anime and gaming districts in Tokyo.
Lined with gadgets, manga, and anime shops, make your way to Tokyo’s most well-known Otaku district, Akihabara. As you stroll down the streets, you’re guaranteed to spot cosplayers flitting from shop-to-shop, along with entertainers dressed as your favourite characters. Bring your tote bag to collect your favourite items and make sure you visit these popular stores: Manarake, Don Quijote, Liberty 8 and Gamerz.
If you desire a quieter district that specialises in female anime characters, Ikebukuro is for you. Visit shops dedicated to selling female manga and after shopping all day, take a break at one of many anime themed-cafes and restaurants nearby.
Regardless of whether your Pokémon days are behind you or you’re still a massive fan, the Pokémon Centre Tokyo DX is well worth a visit. Purchase your favourite plushies and Pokémon paraphernalia, then head to the Pokémon themed café for a Pikachu curry or Snorlax lunch plate. As you adventure through Tokyo, keep an eye out for the Pokémon themed manholes scattered throughout the city.
Museums
Take a glimpse into the minds of famous Japanese animators at various museums showcasing the creator’s history and their curation of early drafts all the way to your screens.
Don’t miss Japan’s most famous animator exhibition, the Studio Ghibli Museum. The original creator, Hayao Miyazaki’s work has captivated generations of anime fans with the likes of Spirited Away and Princess Mononoke. Nearby the Kichijoji, Shimokitazawa, and Nakano districts, the Studio Ghibli Museum is the only location where you can glimpse Miyazaki’s work. Bookings are essential.
Claimed as the birthplace of Japanese Animation, in the Nerima-Ku district of Tokyo you’ll find the Toei Animation Museum. Creators of Astro Boy, Tomorrow’s Joes, Dragonball Z and One Piece, the museum is host to their original story boards and celluloid pictures.
A day trip from Tokyo, catch one of Japan’s efficient trains to the Fujiko F. Fujio Museum in Kawasaki. Creators of the beloved children’s manga, Doraemon, take a tour through Fujiko’s life and various artworks as you learn how the blue robotic cat Doraemon came into existence. Bookings are essential.
Activities
It’s no surprise to anime-lovers, Japan excels in futuristic innovation and robotics. In the Tokyo Bay region, pay a visit to the ‘life-sized’ gigantic Gundam Wing suit. Behind the statue, step into the world of science and innovation at the Miraikan Museum, packed with the latest robotic showcases, a 121-seat dome theatre and a real-time globe LED display.
Try one of the latest trends in Tokyo and tour the city behind your very own go-kart. Dressed in your favourite character’s onesie, join small tours as you drive through the main streets of Tokyo, even passing through the world's busiest crossing in Shibuya. Plan ahead for this activity as all participants require an international driver’s license, which can be organised online.
Theme Parks
It wouldn’t be an amine holiday if you didn’t visit Japan’s famous theme parks. In Tama New Town Tokyo, pay a visit to the Sanrio Puroland indoor theme park. Spend a day exploring the Hello Kitty, Rilakkum and Pompompurin attractions that are beyond your wildest imagination.
If you’ve enjoyed Japan’s most-watched anime series One Piece, the Tokyo One Piece Tower is not to be missed. You can also find One Piece themed attractions in the Minato district.
Located in Osaka, the Japanese Universal Studios covers all the most popular anime series. With areas dedicated to Pokémon, Doraemon, One Piece and Nintendo, book yourself into a nearby hotel and enjoy multiple days exploring the park. Featuring a Super Nintendo World that brings to life the world of Nintendo in a hyper realistic display, the Japanese Universal Studios is packed with memorable sights.
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