Nakano Broadway Tokyo
Tokyo's retro mecca for anime, manga, vintage toys, and a surprising watch collector's paradise.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better browsing
Nakano Broadway Tokyo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better browsing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Tokyo's retro mecca for anime, manga, vintage toys, and a surprising watch collector's paradise.
"It's Akihabara's weirder, cooler cousin – a place where time stands still in the best way."
🎯 Dive Deep into Mandarake
Explore all Mandarake branches; each specializes in different collectibles!
⌚ Compare Watch Prices
Don't buy the first watch you see; compare prices across multiple shops.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mandarake Stores
Multiple floors
A labyrinth of specialty shops selling everything from vintage toys to rare manga and cosplay.
Watch Collector's Haven
Various shops on upper floors
Discover a vast array of luxury and vintage watches from brands like Rolex, Omega, and Patek Philippe.
Retro Toy & Collectible Shops
Throughout the complex
Hunt for unique vintage toys, figurines, and quirky memorabilia that evoke a sense of nostalgia.
Coffee Zingaro
Inside Nakano Broadway
Takashi Murakami's art-infused cafe, offering a unique blend of retro aesthetics and playful touches.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Retro Charm
Watch Hunting Paradise
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Dive Deep into Mandarake
Explore all Mandarake branches; each specializes in different collectibles! 
⌚ Compare Watch Prices
Don't buy the first watch you see; compare prices across multiple shops.
🕵️♀️ Hunt for Hidden Gems
Look closely in smaller shops and upper floors for unique finds.
🚶♂️ Explore the Shotengai
Wander the covered street leading to Broadway for snacks and local vibes.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Dive Deep into Mandarake
Explore all Mandarake branches; each specializes in different collectibles!
⌚ Compare Watch Prices
Don't buy the first watch you see; compare prices across multiple shops.
🕵️♀️ Hunt for Hidden Gems
Look closely in smaller shops and upper floors for unique finds.
🚶♂️ Explore the Shotengai
Wander the covered street leading to Broadway for snacks and local vibes.
💰 Tax-Free Shopping
Foreign visitors can often get tax-free purchases on watches and other items.
📸 Capture the Vibe
The unique shops and retro atmosphere make for great photo opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Nakano Broadway is a beloved destination for its vast collection of anime, manga, vintage toys, and especially watches. Visitors praise its unique, nostalgic atmosphere and the thrill of discovering hidden gems. While some find it can be crowded and prices vary, the sheer variety and specialized shops make it a must-visit for collectors and pop culture fans.
"Nakano Broadway in Tokyo is a treasure trove for fans of Japanese pop culture, offering a unique shopping experience that blends nostalgia with discovery. Located just a short walk from Nakano Station, this multi-story shopping complex houses over 300 shops, each offering a diverse array of collectibles, vintage toys, manga, and anime merchandise.
The atmosphere is vibrant and eclectic, with each floor showcasing a different facet of otaku culture. The second and third floors are particularly popular, featuring Mandarake's various specialty stores, which cater to different interests such as vintage toys, rare manga, and cosplay items. For instance, Mandarake on the fourth floor offers quirky Showa-era toys and corporate novelties, while BIGYARD Railway Models on the second floor specializes in second-hand railway models .
Beyond shopping, Nakano Broadway also offers unique dining options. Mitsuboshi Curry, located just outside the complex, serves a rich and sweet "French curry" over rice, often accompanied by tender pork cutlets .
While the building is aging and some shops may be cramped, the charm of Nakano Broadway lies in its maze-like corridors and the thrill of finding hidden gems. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a casual visitor, Nakano Broadway offers an immersive dive into Japan's pop culture scene."
cletus dsouza
"Awesome hidden gem (not so hidden anymore I guess) to buy anime, otaku merchandise as well as the primary reason why I visited. WATCHES. Whether used or brand new the various shops here have many to offer from different popular brands like Rolex, Omega, Grand Seiko, JLC, Patek Philippe and many others. Women's luxury bags are also being offered. Just roam around and compare prices and inventory and most likely you could walk away with your dream watch tax free (if you are a foreigner)."
Sherwin Clarence Go
"A great arcade to wander up and down even if you are not looking for anything in particular. Right outside the station, and plenty of food choices too. All the more colourful here with the koinoburi decorating your way."
Vietem
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
It's a quick and easy trip! Take the JR Chuo Line from Shinjuku Station to Nakano Station, which takes about 5 minutes. Nakano Broadway is a short walk from the station.
While both are otaku hubs, they are not directly next to each other. Nakano Broadway is about a 30-minute train ride from Tokyo Station, offering a different, more retro vibe than Akihabara.
From Narita Airport, take the Narita Express to Shinjuku Station, then transfer to the JR Chuo Line to Nakano Station. Allow approximately 1.5 to 2 hours for the journey.
Yes, there are parking facilities available near Nakano Station, but it's generally more convenient and cost-effective to use public transportation.
Absolutely! Suica and Pasmo cards are widely accepted on the JR Chuo Line and other local trains, making your journey seamless.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Nakano Broadway is a public shopping complex, and entry is free. You only pay for the items you purchase.
Nakano Broadway generally opens around 11 AM and closes at 8 PM. However, individual shop hours may vary, so it's best to check specific store times if you have a particular shop in mind.
There are no entrance fees for Mandarake or any other shops within Nakano Broadway. You can browse freely.
Nakano Broadway is typically open on most Japanese holidays, but it's always a good idea to confirm hours, especially around New Year's.
Many shops, especially those selling watches, offer tax-free shopping for foreign visitors with a valid passport.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll find a vast selection, from the latest releases to rare vintage items. Mandarake has specialized stores for different genres and eras, catering to diverse otaku interests.
Absolutely! Nakano Broadway is renowned for its extensive collection of vintage toys and collectibles, with many shops dedicated to nostalgic finds.
Popular watch shops include Jackroad, Betty Road, Watchnian, and Quark. It's recommended to explore multiple shops to compare inventory and prices. +2
While both are otaku destinations, Nakano Broadway offers a more retro and curated experience compared to Akihabara's bustling electronics and modern anime scene. Some find it less overwhelming and more focused on collectibles.
Yes, Coffee Zingaro, Takashi Murakami's cafe, is a popular spot. You can also find various eateries and snack stalls within and around the complex. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Just outside the complex, Mitsuboshi Curry offers a unique 'French curry.' The surrounding Nakano Shotengai also has numerous snack spots and cozy eateries for a quick bite.
Yes, you can often find popular Japanese snacks like melonpan and bubble tea within the shopping street leading to Broadway.
Coffee Zingaro, created by artist Takashi Murakami, is a notable themed cafe inside Nakano Broadway, offering a unique artistic ambiance.
You'll find a mix of Japanese comfort food, curry, and various snack options. The surrounding area offers a wider variety of dining experiences.
Dining options range from affordable snacks to mid-range meals, making it accessible for various budgets.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but it's always polite to ask shop owners before taking close-up photos of merchandise.
The colorful displays of vintage toys, unique shop interiors, and the retro architecture of the complex itself offer great photo opportunities.
Yes, you can take photos inside Coffee Zingaro, but be mindful of other patrons and the cafe's ambiance.
Drone photography is generally not permitted in indoor public spaces like Nakano Broadway due to safety and privacy concerns.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm or a wide-angle lens would be useful for capturing the variety of items and the bustling atmosphere. A fast prime lens can be great for low-light interiors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While it can get crowded, visiting on a weekday morning can make the experience more manageable. Consider grabbing some snacks from the surrounding shotengai to keep energy levels up. The unique cafes, like Coffee Zingaro, can also be an interesting stop for families looking for a break.
💰 Budget Travelers
Don't forget to inquire about tax-free shopping if you're a foreign visitor, as this can lead to significant savings on purchases like watches.
⌚ Watch Enthusiasts
+2Be prepared to negotiate or at least compare offers, and always inquire about tax-free options for foreign buyers.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The World of Mandarake
+2Visitors often describe the experience as overwhelming yet exhilarating. The sheer volume and variety of items can be staggering, and it's not uncommon to spend hours sifting through shelves. Redditors often advise to take your time and explore every Mandarake branch as their inventory can differ significantly.
Beyond Mandarake, Nakano Broadway hosts numerous independent shops that also deal in similar merchandise. This creates a dense ecosystem of collectibles, making it a true mecca for enthusiasts. The competition and variety ensure that prices can be surprisingly competitive, especially for pre-owned items.
Watch Hunting: A Collector's Dream
Travelers emphasize the importance of comparing prices and inventory across different stores. Some shops might have better deals or a more specialized selection than others. It's also worth noting that many of these shops offer tax-free shopping for foreign visitors, which can significantly reduce the overall cost.
While some TikTok videos suggest it might be a challenging place to find a 'good deal,' the consensus from reviews and other social media content is that the sheer variety and availability make it a worthwhile destination for watch collectors.
Beyond Otaku Culture: Unique Finds
+1 One notable example is Miyoshiya Kimono, a large kimono shop located in the basement, offering a wide selection of traditional garments. The complex also houses a shrine on its upper floors, providing a moment of quiet reflection amidst the bustling shopping environment.
For those interested in art and unique cafes, Coffee Zingaro is a must-visit. This cafe, created by the renowned artist Takashi Murakami, features his signature art style blended with retro Japanese kissaten aesthetics. It's a popular spot for both its artistic ambiance and its themed drinks.
+1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit