Nakano provides a distinct experience for visitors interested in Tokyo’s specialist subcultures. Less central than Akihabara, this neighbourhood draws a more knowing crowd of enthusiasts. The district serves as a central point for otaku culture, a Japanese term for people with dedicated, often deep interests in areas like anime, manga and video games. Its primary attraction is Nakano Broadway, a multi-level mall from the 1960s that houses a dense collection of specialist shops, including the flagship Mandarake complex, selling vintage toys, comics and collectables. Access to the mall is through the Nakano Sun Mall, a covered shotengai (shopping arcade) filled with everyday shops and eateries. In recent years, Nakano Broadway has also developed a parallel reputation for its concentration of dealers in high-end vintage watches.

The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum dives into the history and ongoing work of humanitarian aid around the world. Through interactive exhibits, personal stories, and multimedia installations, it explores issues like conflict, disaster response, and human rights. There’s a permanent exhibition, plus rotating temporary ones. Its focus is to promote understanding of the history, current affairs, and challenges of humanitarian actions worldwide.

This nationally recognised Shinto shrine is considered one of Japan’s primary symbols of the country’s major religion. Take in the huge 11-metre cypress tree torii (gate) before wandering peacefully along winding paths to the wonderful inner buildings. Near the main complex, the modern Meiji Jingu Museum displays personal artefacts of the imperial couple, from manuscripts to garments. For a small fee, the Inner Garden (Jingu Naien) reveals a landscape of seasonal beauty, most famous for its June iris blooms.