Mandarake, Akihabara, Tokyo - Image 1
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Mandarake Akihabara Tokyo

4.2
·5k reviews·Chiyoda City, Japan

An 8-floor paradise for anime, manga, and collectible lovers, packed with rare finds and vintage treasures.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more browsing time

CrowdLow
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Mandarake, Akihabara, Tokyo - Image 1

Mandarake Akihabara Tokyo

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more browsing time

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An 8-floor paradise for anime, manga, and collectible lovers, packed with rare finds and vintage treasures.

4.2
(5k reviews)

"Such an awesome place. If I lived in Tokyo I would probably spend all my time and money here."

Vertical photo
TIP

🗺️ Allocate Ample Time

With 8 floors, you'll need hours to explore. Don't rush your treasure hunt! :clock1:

🗣️ Don't Fear Asking Staff

Staff are helpful even with language barriers. They can assist in finding items. :brazil:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Anime & Manga Floors

Anime & Manga Floors

Multiple floors

Dive into endless shelves of manga, figures, and collectibles. Find everything from popular series to rare finds.

Rare Figure Hunting

Rare Figure Hunting

Figure sections

Hunt for that elusive Nendoroid or vintage action figure you've been dreaming of. Many collectors find their holy grails here .

Reddit
Retro Gaming & Electronics

Retro Gaming & Electronics

Dedicated floors

Explore a treasure trove of vintage video games, consoles, and electronics for a nostalgic trip.

Secondhand Fashion Finds

Secondhand Fashion Finds

Fashion floor

Discover unique vintage clothing and accessories, adding a retro flair to your wardrobe.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating Mandarake's Treasures

Mandarake Akihabara is a multi-floor haven for anime, manga, and collectible enthusiasts. With 8 floors packed with items, it can feel overwhelming. Plan to spend several hours exploring each level to uncover hidden gems. Don't be afraid to ask staff for help; they're known for being accommodating even if you don't speak Japanese.Reddit

Score Your Dream Finds

This isn't just a store; it's a treasure hunt! From rare Nendoroids to vintage manga, Mandarake Akihabara offers a vast selection of both new and secondhand goods.Reddit While prices can sometimes be a bit high, the sheer variety and the thrill of finding that perfect item make it a must-visit for collectors.Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more browsing time
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday evenings
Why
Local shoppers thin out
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Some recent manga and merch hauls! #mangahaul #animemerch #spyxfamily #cardcaptorsakura #demonslayer
@nishathenerd
41.2K likes • 200.8K views

🗺️ Allocate Ample Time

With 8 floors, you'll need hours to explore. Don't rush your treasure hunt! Reddit :clock1:

🗣️ Don't Fear Asking Staff

Staff are helpful even with language barriers. They can assist in finding items. Reddit :brazil:

📍Mandarake Shibuya B2F Shibuya BEAM, 31-2 Udagawacho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 150-0042, Japan Mandarake in Shibuya is one of the most visually striking locations of the famous secondhand anime/manga store chain. Here’s what makes it special: 1. Cyberpunk Underground Vibe The store entrance is a long, neon-lit escalator that feels like descending into a secret anime lair. Inside, it has a dark, moody atm...
@jinglebellplus
29.3K likes • 357.4K views
🇯🇵 5 sitios que ver en Tokio 🇯🇵 1 - Tokyo Tower 🗼 2 - Cruce de Shibuya 3 - Mandarake 4 - Hie Shrine ⛩️ 5 - Pokémon Center #juegosretro #akihabara #japanesegame #tokyo #akihabarastreet #japon #visitjapan #akihabarajapan #akihabaratokyo
adriadelarica
258 likes • 6.3K views

🔍 Check Both New & Used

Many items are secondhand but in great condition. You might find better deals! Reddit :mag:

💰 Be Prepared to Spend

It's easy to get carried away! Set a budget before you go. TikTok :moneybag:

Replying to @midzelder Mandarake anime figures and trinkets haul (I bought everything at the Mandarake Nagoya Yabashi event and in total it was around 6000-7000 yen) #thrifting #thrifthaul #anime #figures #japan #trinkets #animecore
@knorowara
21.8K likes • 119.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🗺️ Allocate Ample Time

With 8 floors, you'll need hours to explore. Don't rush your treasure hunt! Reddit :clock1:

🗣️ Don't Fear Asking Staff

Staff are helpful even with language barriers. They can assist in finding items. Reddit :brazil:

🔍 Check Both New & Used

Many items are secondhand but in great condition. You might find better deals! Reddit :mag:

💰 Be Prepared to Spend

It's easy to get carried away! Set a budget before you go. TikTok :moneybag:

📸 Capture Your Hauls

Show off your amazing finds! Many visitors share their hauls online. TikTok+1 :camerawithflash:

What Travellers Say

4.2
(5k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Mandarake Akihabara is a beloved multi-floor treasure trove for anime, manga, and collectible fans, praised for its vast selection of both new and secondhand items, including rare finds. While the sheer density and sometimes high prices are noted, the thrill of discovery and helpful staff make it a must-visit destination for enthusiasts.

"Such an awesome place. If I lived in Tokyo I would probably spend all my time and money here.
I came to Japan searching for a Macross VF-1J and did not leave disappointed!"

Javier L

"Amazing store. It has 5 different floors where you can find from manga and anime comics, books, toys, figures to old fahion and new video games, electronics and so.
We went several times and bought a lot of things for us and as souvenirs."

Alexia MC

"This place has so much crammed into it, I can’t believe how dense it is. It is organized by floor but I am not sure how the system works beyond that. But 8 floors of collectibles has a lot to offer people who are into toys and manga!"

Allison Iuliano

What People Like

Vast selection of rare items
Multi-floor treasure hunt
Helpful staff

What People Dislike

Dense and narrow aisles
Prices can be high

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Mandarake Akihabara is easily accessible via the JR Yamanote Line, Chuo-Sobu Line, or Keihin-Tohoku Line to Akihabara Station. It's a short walk from the station's Electric Town exit. Many visitors find Akihabara a must-visit area in Tokyo.Instagram

Yes, Mandarake Akihabara is right in the heart of Akihabara, surrounded by electronics stores, arcades, and other anime merchandise shops. It's a central hub for exploring the district.Instagram

Absolutely! Akihabara Station is a major hub, making it very convenient to reach Mandarake Akihabara using Tokyo's extensive train and subway network.

Upon exiting Akihabara Station's Electric Town exit, head straight into the main street. Mandarake Akihabara is a prominent building, often recognizable by its signage and the sheer volume of people entering and exiting.

While parking is available in Akihabara, it can be expensive and difficult to find. Public transportation is highly recommended for visiting Mandarake Akihabara.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to Mandarake Akihabara is free. You only pay for the items you decide to purchase. This makes it a great place to browse even if you're on a tight budget.Reddit

Mandarake Akihabara typically opens around 11 AM and closes at 8 PM daily. However, it's always a good idea to check their official website or social media for any last-minute changes.

There is no admission fee to enter Mandarake Akihabara. It's a retail store, so you can freely explore its many floors.

While specific reservation policies can vary, it's generally best to visit in person to secure items, especially rare ones. Some online services might be available for international orders.TikTok

Mandarake occasionally holds special events or sales, particularly for specific franchises or holidays. Following their social media accounts is the best way to stay updated.

🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Merchandise

Mandarake Akihabara boasts an incredible variety, including manga, anime figures, Nendoroids, model kits, doujinshi, art books, soundtracks, trading cards, and much more.TikTok+2

Mandarake specializes in secondhand goods, but they also carry new items. You can find both sealed boxes and pre-owned collectibles, often at competitive prices.Reddit

The store is organized by floor, with each level often dedicated to specific categories like manga, figures, retro games, or fashion. However, the exact system can feel a bit dense and requires exploration.Reddit

Yes, Mandarake is renowned for its selection of rare, vintage, and out-of-print items. Collectors often find items here that are no longer available elsewhere.Reddit

Prices vary widely depending on the item's rarity and condition. You can find very affordable items (like 100 yen finds TikTok) to high-value collectibles. Some visitors note prices can still be a bit high.Reddit

📸 📸 Photography & Experience

Generally, photography is allowed for personal use, but it's always best to be discreet and respectful. Avoid blocking aisles or photographing staff without permission. Some creators share their shopping experiences.TikTok+1

The atmosphere is exciting and a bit chaotic, filled with the energy of collectors and fans. It's a dense, multi-level store that feels like a true treasure hunt.Reddit

Most visitors recommend dedicating at least 2-3 hours, if not more, to thoroughly explore all 8 floors and find what you're looking for.Reddit

Absolutely! It's an iconic Akihabara experience and a must-visit for anyone interested in anime, manga, or Japanese pop culture. It's often listed as a top Tokyo spot.Instagram

Its sheer size (8 floors!), vast selection of secondhand and rare items, and the thrill of discovery make it stand out. It's more of a collector's paradise than a typical retail store.Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Mandarake Akihabara can be an exciting, albeit overwhelming, experience for families. The sheer volume of merchandise might captivate older children and teens interested in anime, manga, or video games. The multi-floor layout offers a sense of exploration, turning the visit into a treasure hunt. However, the narrow aisles and dense crowds can be challenging with very young children or strollers.

Focus on specific floors that align with your children's interests, such as the figure or manga sections. It's advisable to set clear expectations and perhaps a budget beforehand, as the temptation to buy can be high for everyone. Consider visiting during less crowded weekday mornings to make the experience more manageable.

💰 Budget Travelers

Mandarake Akihabara is a fantastic place for budget travelers looking for unique souvenirs and collectibles. While some rare items can be pricey, the store's extensive secondhand selection means you can find incredible deals. Look for items with minor imperfections or older merchandise that might be significantly discounted.Reddit

Set a strict budget before you enter, as it's easy to get lost in the aisles and overspend. Consider focusing on smaller items like manga volumes, keychains, or pre-owned figures. Some visitors have reported finding items for as little as 100 yen,TikTok making it possible to snag souvenirs without breaking the bank.

🎯 Collectors & Enthusiasts

For serious collectors, Mandarake Akihabara is a pilgrimage site. The store is renowned for its vast inventory of rare, out-of-print, and vintage anime figures, manga, model kits, and other collectibles.Reddit Whether you're hunting for a specific Nendoroid, a vintage Macross VF-1J, or a rare doujinshi, the chances of finding it here are high.

Be prepared to spend time meticulously browsing each floor. The organization can be dense, but the reward of finding that elusive piece for your collection is immense. Many collectors share their successful hauls online, highlighting the store's ability to satisfy even the most dedicated enthusiasts.TikTok+2

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the 8 Floors of Mandarake Akihabara

Mandarake Akihabara is not just a store; it's an experience spread across eight floors, each offering a unique dive into Japanese pop culture. From the moment you step inside, you're greeted by a dense, exciting atmosphere buzzing with the energy of collectors and fans. Navigating the levels is part of the adventure, with each floor dedicated to specific types of merchandise, ensuring there's something for every niche interest.

Key areas to explore include dedicated floors for manga (both new and used), a vast array of anime figures and collectibles (including rare Nendoroids and vintage toys TikTok+1), retro video games and electronics, and even a section for vintage fashion. The sheer volume of items can be overwhelming, but the thrill of discovering a long-sought-after item makes the exploration worthwhile.Reddit Many visitors find themselves returning multiple times to ensure they haven't missed any hidden gems.

Community Tip: Don't be afraid to ask the staff for assistance. Despite potential language barriers, they are known for being helpful and can guide you to specific sections or items you're looking for.Reddit Planning to spend several hours here is highly recommended to truly appreciate the depth of what Mandarake Akihabara has to offer.

The Thrill of the Secondhand Hunt

Mandarake's reputation is built on its extensive collection of secondhand goods, making it a prime destination for collectors seeking rare, out-of-print, or discontinued items. Unlike typical retail stores, Mandarake offers a unique opportunity to find treasures that are no longer available through official channels. This focus on pre-loved items means you can often snag fantastic deals, especially on items that are still in excellent condition.Reddit

Visitors often share their excitement about finding specific, hard-to-get figures or manga volumes that they've been searching for years. The joy of unearthing such a find at Mandarake is a significant part of the appeal. While prices can sometimes be higher than expected for certain rare items, the availability itself is a major draw for enthusiasts worldwide.Reddit

Pro-Tip: Keep an eye out for items that might have minor cosmetic flaws but are significantly cheaper. For many collectors, the thrill of the hunt and the satisfaction of completing a collection outweigh minor imperfections. Some visitors even find incredibly cheap items, like 100-yen finds, which add to the excitement.TikTok

Mandarake Akihabara vs. Shibuya

While both Mandarake Akihabara and Mandarake Shibuya are part of the same renowned chain, they offer distinct experiences. Akihabara, the 'Electric Town,' is the epicenter of anime, manga, and gaming culture, and its Mandarake branch reflects this with an immense focus on these categories across its eight floors. It's the go-to for a comprehensive dive into otaku merchandise.Instagram

Shibuya's Mandarake, on the other hand, is often noted for its unique 'cyberpunk underground vibe,' with a striking neon-lit escalator entrance that feels like descending into a secret world.TikTok While it also carries anime and manga, it might have a slightly different emphasis or a more curated selection that aligns with Shibuya's trendier, more eclectic atmosphere. Some Reddit users suggest Shibuya might have a better Don Quijote, implying a difference in the overall shopping landscape.Reddit

Recommendation: If your primary interest is a deep dive into anime figures, manga, retro games, and a vast selection of collectibles, Mandarake Akihabara is likely your best bet. If you're looking for a more visually striking entrance and a potentially different mix of items within a trendier district, Shibuya's Mandarake is worth considering.