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Techno Geek Paradise
Akihabara, or just simply Akiba, is a direct hit on the pleasure centers of any technophile or techno geek who visits this electronic wonderland. Akiba is one of the world’s leading districts devoted to all types of electronic technology, gadgets and components. If it requires an electric current or an integrated circuit to operate then it’s here among the maze of shops and stores with the blinking lights and store jingles and loudspeakers announcing a new product or store discount. Although the small manufacturing places are declining, there are also still a number of small-scale manufacturers making components and unique products. And, the area is the center of Japan’s so-called otaku (nerd) culture where men and women find sustenance for the soul among the electronic shops, cosplay cafes and stores selling manga and anime covering almost all conceivable subjects. For tourists, Akiba has done a fantastic job of making itself accessible to non-Japanese. There are many duty-free shops, electronics specifically for regions outside Japan, and English signage and English-speaking staff.
In particular, stores like Laox, Ishimaru Denki and Yodobashi Camera all have an incredible selection of digital and electronic equipment, video cameras, DVD players, cell phones, GPS devices, appliances, wireless devices and eco-technology. Prices are, for the most part, still fairly expensive for recently released products, however, for older models there are often good discounts at certain stores.
Even for non-technophiles, there is a lot to see and do in Akihabara. Look around here and there to find one-of-kind products that are not sold—could not be sold—anywhere else. The store to go to is called Raremono Shop. There is something almost endearing about items that have extremely questionable practical value. How can anyone not like the USB cushion warmer and USB slippers, the Gold Ingot USB Hub—looks just like a gold ingot and weighs 2kg—and the Magic Mirror Webcam? Japan’s rampant consumerism often has a lot to answer for.
Akihabara is also the place to see the wonderful examples of otaku culture showcased in the manga and anime shops along with music idols and the cosplay cafes and stores are fascinating from a sociological perspective. While some are dismissive of the idea of otaku culture, it is a unique form of expression that has an eye to the future.
For anyone wondering what the future might look like, a trip to Akiba is always an eye-opening experience.