Japan is a dream destination for anime fans, gamers, and pop-culture lovers—and this 7-day itinerary is designed to take you straight into the heart of modern Japanese fandom. From Akihabara’s electric streets to the nostalgic worlds of Studio Ghibli, this route blends shopping, attractions, theme parks, and iconic filming locations. It’s perfect for first-time visitors who want to explore Japan through its pop culture lens while still enjoying unique scenery, food, and experiences along the way.
7-Day Itinerary Overview
Start your journey in Tokyo, Japan’s pop-culture capital. Wander through Akihabara’s legendary game centers and figure shops, then explore Ikebukuro’s must-visit spots like the Pokémon Center and Animate—favorites among anime fans. Shibuya and Harajuku add a stylish twist, offering fashion trends, themed cafés, and vibrant youth culture.
Day 1 – Akihabara
- Game centers, figure shops, maid cafés
- Retro gaming stores and anime merchandise
Day 2 – Ikebukuro
- Pokémon Center Mega Tokyo
- Animate Ikebukuro (one of Japan’s biggest anime stores)
- Otome Road
Day 3 – Shibuya & Harajuku
- Shibuya Crossing, trendy fashion streets
- Harajuku: Takeshita Street, character boutiques
- Themed cafés and youth culture
Day 4 – Fuji-Q Highland
Next, head out of the city for thrill rides and anime collaborations at Fuji-Q Highland, followed by a relaxing stay in Hakone, where Evangelion landmarks and hot springs blend sci-fi fantasy with real-world beauty. Finally, end your adventure with a choice: the expansive new Ghibli Park in Aichi or the intimate and magical Ghibli Museum in Tokyo.
- Evangelion attractions
- Thrill rides like Fujiyama and Eejanaika
Day 5 – Hakone
- Evangelion locations around Lake Ashi
- Ropeway, museums, and hot spring ryokan stay
Day 6 – Kyoto or Osaka Anime Stores
- Kyoto: Teramachi Street shops, Kyoto International Manga Museum
- Osaka: Den Den Town (Osaka’s Akihabara)
Day 7 – Ghibli Park OR Ghibli Museum
- Ghibli Park: multiple themed areas from Totoro to Mononoke
- Ghibli Museum: intimate, artistic, and magical
This itinerary is packed with character-themed shops, exclusive merchandise, photo spots, and iconic settings that anime fans will instantly recognize. It’s the perfect balance of excitement, nostalgia, and discovery.
