Nakano Broadway: Tokyo for Collectors

A tempting alternative to Akihabara, Nakano Broadway is sure to appeal to collectors.

To reach this Ali Baba’s cave, you first have to walk through Nakano Sun Mall, a covered shopping arcade with more than 110 stores stretching out from the station. Stop at one of its restaurants along the way. Sushi, yakitori, traditional desserts — there’s something for everyone!

At the end of the arcade, Nakano Broadway awaits. From the outside, there is little indication of what lies inside, but once you enter, simply head up a few floors to discover a maze dedicated to Japanese pop culture. The display cases are packed with manga, figures, trading cards and merchandise. Some stores are tiny, while others occupy several spaces, but all of them make you want to have a good look around.

Mandarake Special is a good place to look for figures and merchandise, while Mandarake Galaxy is more geared toward fans of video games and retro consoles.

Even if you’re not a collector, it’s worth taking a look, as some items are genuine pieces of manga and anime history. Another highlight of the store is its atmosphere: unlike the large stores in Akihabara, Nakano feels more like a specialized flea market.

Mandarake isn’t the only reason to visit Nakano. As you make your way through the different floors, other stores offer plenty of opportunities to hunt for treasures.

At Jungle, fans of figures, robots and model kits can browse the display cases, with plenty to interest science-fiction fans and collectors of major Japanese franchises.

For something completely different, head to TRIO, a store specializing in idols and music. CDs, photos, magazines and merchandise offer a glimpse into another side of Japanese culture. It’s also a good option if you’re looking for a souvenir that’s a little less predictable than an anime figure.

Our tip for compulsive shoppers? Take a look around before buying. Several stores sell similar items, with prices varying depending on their condition and rarity.

In the basement, Daily Chiko is one of the building’s best-known spots. Its specialty? Soft-serve ice cream, creamy frozen treats available in different flavors. The shop is particularly famous for its multi-layered cones.

For a proper meal, head outside and explore the streets around the station. Nakano is home to plenty of small restaurants, from ramen shops and izakaya to Japanese curry and sushi. Nakano Sun Mall is another good option.

After the bustle of Nakano Sun Mall, the atmosphere becomes more residential. Small bars and restaurants fill the narrow streets, while local shops remind you that Nakano is, above all, a neighborhood where Tokyo residents live.

This is also what sets it apart from Akihabara. While the latter openly embraces its geek identity through its large stores and colorful facades, Nakano is best discovered gradually, one shop at a time.