Sunshine City Alpa Ikebukuro
Tokyo's ultimate entertainment complex in Ikebukuro, featuring an observatory, aquarium, themed cafes, and extensive shopping.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed exploration.
Sunshine City Alpa Ikebukuro
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed exploration.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Tokyo's ultimate entertainment complex in Ikebukuro, featuring an observatory, aquarium, themed cafes, and extensive shopping.
"It's one of my favorite malls in Japan. It's got everything here."
🎯 Book Pokemon Cafe Early
Reservations for the popular Pokemon Cafe fill up fast! Book online well in advance to secure your spot.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking! Sunshine City is vast, so wear comfy shoes to explore all its levels.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sunshine 60 Observatory
Sunshine City
Soar to the top for breathtaking 360° panoramic views of Tokyo from 251 meters up. A must-see for any visitor!
Sunshine Aquarium
Sunshine City Rooftop
An urban oasis featuring marine life and unique exhibits, including a rooftop lagoon. A refreshing escape!
Pokemon Center & Cafe
Sunshine City Alpa
Immerse yourself in the world of Pokemon with a massive store and a themed cafe. Perfect for fans of all ages!
Sanrio Vivitix & Cafe
Sunshine City Alpa B1F
Indulge in kawaii culture with custom Sanrio stamps and themed treats. A delightful experience for Sanrio enthusiasts!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Sunshine City Alpa
Ikebukuro's Entertainment Hub
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Pokemon Cafe Early
Reservations for the popular Pokemon Cafe fill up fast! Book online well in advance to secure your spot.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking! Sunshine City is vast, so wear comfy shoes to explore all its levels.
📱 Download Maps/Apps
Navigating the large complex can be tricky. Have offline maps or the Sunshine City app handy.
🛍️ Souvenir Shopping Galore
From Sanrio to Ghibli, find unique souvenirs. The Alpa mall has a wide variety of shops.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Pokemon Cafe Early
Reservations for the popular Pokemon Cafe fill up fast! Book online well in advance to secure your spot.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking! Sunshine City is vast, so wear comfy shoes to explore all its levels.
📱 Download Maps/Apps
Navigating the large complex can be tricky. Have offline maps or the Sunshine City app handy.
🛍️ Souvenir Shopping Galore
From Sanrio to Ghibli, find unique souvenirs. The Alpa mall has a wide variety of shops.
📸 Capture the Views
The Sunshine 60 Observatory offers stunning photo opportunities of the Tokyo skyline.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Sunshine City Alpa for its immense variety of shops, attractions, and dining options, making it a comprehensive entertainment hub. The themed cafes and character stores are particularly popular highlights, offering unique experiences for fans. While the sheer size can be overwhelming, most find the extensive offerings well worth the visit.
"Spend a bit of time browsing the shop good quality and interesting things to look at."
Charo Lissenden
"It's one of my favorite malls in Japan. It's got everything here. I.e mega Pokemon center, Pokemon Cafe, Pokemon go area. Pokemon arcade"
The Foodie (Sir Diggeti)
"Really great."
Stephen M
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Shinjuku Station, take the JR Yamanote Line to Ikebukuro Station (approx. 5 minutes). Sunshine City is a short walk from Ikebukuro Station's East Exit.
The JR Yamanote Line, JR Saikyo Line, and various subway lines (Marunouchi, Yurakucho, Fukutoshin, Tojo) all stop at Ikebukuro Station, making it easily accessible.
Yes, Sunshine City has multiple parking garages. However, it can get busy, especially on weekends. Consider public transport if possible.
Yes, it's about a 10-15 minute walk from Ikebukuro Station. Follow the signs for Sunshine City.
Several local bus routes serve the Sunshine City area. Check local bus schedules for routes originating from nearby stations or districts.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Sunshine City Alpa itself is a shopping mall and generally free to enter. However, individual attractions like the Sunshine 60 Observatory and Sunshine Aquarium require separate tickets.
Ticket prices for the Sunshine 60 Observatory can vary, but typically range from ¥1,500 to ¥2,000 for adults. It's best to check their official website for current pricing.
No, the Pokemon Cafe operates on a reservation system. Tickets are not sold on-site, and walk-ins are rarely accommodated. Book online well in advance.
Sometimes, combo tickets or passes are offered that include entry to multiple attractions like the observatory and aquarium. Keep an eye out for these deals on their official websites or at information counters.
Most shops and facilities in Sunshine City Alpa are open from around 10 AM to 8 PM, but specific attraction hours may vary. Always check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
🎫 📍 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the Sunshine 60 Observatory for incredible city views, the Sunshine Aquarium for unique marine life, and the themed cafes like the Pokemon Cafe and Sanrio Cafe for a fun, immersive experience.
Absolutely! With the Pokemon Center, aquarium, and various themed cafes, it's a fantastic destination for families. There are also many shops catering to children.
Sunshine City Alpa boasts a wide variety of shops, including fashion boutiques, souvenir stores, character goods shops (like Sanrio, Ghibli, and Pokemon), and electronics stores.
Yes, there is a Donguri Garden (Official Ghibli Shop) located in Sunshine City Alpa, offering a wide range of Studio Ghibli merchandise.
While specific 'Pokemon Go areas' might refer to in-game features or events, the presence of a large Pokemon Center and the Pokemon Cafe strongly appeals to Pokemon Go players.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Sunshine City Alpa offers a vast array of dining options, from themed cafes like the Pokemon Cafe and Sanrio Cafe to numerous restaurants and food courts serving Japanese and international cuisine.
The Pokemon Cafe is moderately priced for a themed cafe experience in Tokyo. Expect to pay around ¥2,000-¥3,000 per person for a meal and drink.
The Sanrio Cafe offers cute and colorful dishes, including Hello Kitty burgers, fluffy soufflé pancakes, and latte art featuring Sanrio characters.
With so many dining choices, you're likely to find vegetarian or vegan options. It's recommended to check menus or ask staff at individual restaurants.
Yes, there are many cafes, bakeries, and dessert shops throughout Sunshine City Alpa, perfect for a quick snack or sweet treat.
📸 📸 Photography
The Sunshine 60 Observatory offers panoramic cityscapes, the themed cafes provide colorful backdrops, and the various character shops are great for unique shots.
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the Pokemon Cafe, but be mindful of other diners and avoid flash photography that might disturb them.
Photography is usually permitted at the Sunshine Aquarium, but check for any specific restrictions on flash photography, especially for sensitive exhibits.
The Sanrio Vivitix store and the Sanrio Cafe are prime photo spots, with their vibrant decor and character-themed items.
Both daytime for clear city views and sunset/evening for illuminated cityscapes offer stunning photographic opportunities from the Sunshine 60 Observatory.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond these main attractions, the Alpa mall has numerous shops with toys and character goods, and the food courts offer a variety of kid-friendly dining options. Comfortable shoes are a must, as there's a lot of ground to cover.
💖 Couples & Friends
Spend an afternoon browsing the diverse shops in the Alpa mall, from fashion to character goods, or catch a movie at the cinema complex. The variety ensures there's always something new to discover together.
🛍️ Shoppers & Merch Enthusiasts
The Alpa mall also features a wide array of fashion boutiques, accessory stores, and souvenir shops, making it easy to spend hours hunting for treasures. The sheer density of specialized stores makes it a prime destination for collectors and souvenir hunters.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Themed Cafes
Fans of kawaii culture will delight in the Sanrio Cafe and Sanrio Vivitix store, where you can enjoy Hello Kitty-themed treats and purchase custom stamps and merchandise. For lovers of animation, the Donguri Garden shop offers a wide array of Studio Ghibli goods, and while not a cafe, it's a must-visit for fans. The Sesame Street Market also provides a unique combination of a cafe and merchandise shop, making it a fun stop for families.
These cafes offer more than just food; they provide an immersive experience that appeals to a global fanbase. Planning ahead and booking reservations where necessary is key to enjoying these popular spots without disappointment.
Panoramic Views from Sunshine 60 Observatory
Visitors can experience the observatory during the day for clear, expansive vistas or visit in the evening to witness Tokyo transform into a glittering sea of lights. This makes it an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts and anyone wanting to grasp the sheer scale of Tokyo. The observatory often features special exhibits or seasonal decorations, adding an extra layer of interest to the visit.
It's recommended to check the weather forecast before your visit to ensure the best possible visibility. The observatory is a popular spot, so consider visiting during off-peak hours or weekdays to avoid larger crowds and enjoy a more serene experience.
Shopping Delights at Alpa Mall
For fans of popular characters, Alpa is a treasure trove. You'll find extensive Pokemon Centers, official Sanrio stores, and Donguri Garden for Studio Ghibli merchandise. These stores are often larger and more comprehensive than those found elsewhere, offering exclusive items and a delightful shopping experience for enthusiasts.
Beyond character goods, the mall features numerous souvenir shops perfect for picking up mementos of your Tokyo trip. The sheer variety ensures that shoppers can spend hours browsing, making Alpa a key part of the Sunshine City experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit