【Local Residents’ Top Picks】Top 5 Must-Visit Spots in Ikebukuro,Tokyo

海外向け

I’ve lived near Ikebukuro for over 15 years, and I’d like to introduce you to some of the must-visit tourist spots that I highly recommend! This has been updated for 2025.

All facilities are within a 10-minute walk from Ikebukuro Station.

パカ
パカ

Can you tell me what to see in Ikebukuro?

まりも
まりも

Yes, of course!

Gashapon department Ikebukuro

This is the world’s largest capsule toy (gachapon) spot, with around 3,000 machines.

The prices typically range from 200 to 500 yen.

Gachapon offers a wide variety of items, including goods featuring Japanese anime characters and miniature replicas of popular snacks.

Marimo
Marimo

It’s fun just looking at it!

■ Gashapon department Ikebukuro
Regular holiday:Open all year round
Business hours:10:00〜21:00
Admission fee :free
Address:Sunshine City World Import Mart Building 3F, 3-1-3 Higashiikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
Detail:https://g.co/kgs/p96DbwT

Sunshine 60 Observatory Tenbou-Park

The observatory stands at a height of 251 meters.

One of its best features is the unobstructed view, as there are no tall buildings around, allowing you to see far into the distance.

Marimo
Marimo

On a clear day, you can see uniquely Japanese landscapes such as Tokyo Skytree and Mount Fuji.

It was beautifully renovated in April 2023. The observation deck has a unique park-themed design, making it an interesting place to visit.

Paka
Paka

Especially, night view of Tokyo is spectacular!

■ Sunshine 60 Observatory Tenbou-Park
Regular holiday:Open all year round
Business hours:Depends on the day
Admission fee :Depends on the day
adult(High school students and above):700 yen to 1200 yen
child:500 yen to 800 yen
Address:Sunshine City Sunshine 60 Building, 60F, 3-1 Higashiikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
Detail:https://g.co/kgs/wFC3B8Y

Pokemon Center Mega Tokyo

You can buy Pokémon goods here.

It’s the largest Pokémon Center in Japan and features a wide range of Pokémon merchandise, from plush toys to exclusive items.

The store also showcases various Pokémon statues and themed decorations, creating an immersive experience for visitors.

Additionally, it hosts special events and promotions regularly, making it a must-visit destination for Pokémon fans.

Marimo
Marimo

A must visit for Pokemon lovers!

■ Pokemon Center Mega Tokyo
Regular holiday:Open all year round
Business hours:10:00〜21:00
Admission fee :free
Address:Sunshine City Alpa 2F, 3-1-2 Higashiikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
Detail:https://g.co/kgs/YRhA42J

Animate Ikebukuro Main Store

If you love Japanese anime, this place is a must-visit.

The building has 9 floors above ground and is always bustling with activity. Sometimes, you can even spot cosplayers.

You can also enjoy a ‘graphic latte’ with characters printed on the cream, which costs 540 yen.

Marimo
Marimo

Seeing a graphic latte for the first time is truly impressive.

■ Animate Ikebukuro Main Store
Regular holiday:Open all year round
Business hours:Weekdays 11:00-21:00/Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays 10:00-20:00
Admission fee :free
Address:1-20-7 Higashiikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
Detail:https://g.co/kgs/QRWkzJG

Me Tokyo Ikebukuro

This game center, which opened in August 2024, is housed in an eye-catching yellow building. The playing fees are 100 yen or 200 yen per game, and the prizes include stuffed animals, sweets, and figurines.

The staff are very kind and always willing to assist you.

On the 4th floor, you can also try cosplay and dress up in cute outfits like maid and idol costumes, for a fee of 1000 yen per hour.

Paka
Paka

If you have some leftover Japanese yen, why not try your luck at a crane game?

■Me Tokyo Ikebukuro
Regular holiday:Open all year round
Business hours:10:00〜24:00
Admission fee :free
Address:1-9-3 Higashiikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
Detail:https://g.co/kgs/9TGtt5v

Afterword

Ikebukuro is filled with fun and excitement.

From shopping and dining to gaming and sightseeing, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Paka
Paka

I hope you create wonderful memories during your time in Ikebukuro.

Marimo
Marimo

Thank you for reading!