Tokyo Character Street: The Ultimate Anime and Character Shopping Destination

Located beneath the bustling Tokyo Station, Tokyo Character Street is a hidden gem for fans of Japanese pop culture. With over 30 official stores featuring beloved characters like Pokémon, Ghibli, Ultraman, and many more, it’s a paradise for collectors and curious visitors alike.

What Is Tokyo Character Street?

Tokyo Character Street is part of the underground shopping complex called Tokyo Station Ichibangai. It houses official character stores from popular Japanese anime, TV shows, and games. You’ll find everything from plush toys and keychains to limited-edition merchandise. It’s the perfect place for souvenirs or to experience Japan’s kawaii (cute) culture firsthand.

Popular Stores

Here are just some of the shops you can visit:

Pokémon Store Tokyo Station – A compact version of the Pokémon Center with exclusive goods.
Chiikawa Land – For fans of the hit manga and character series “Chiikawa.”
Sumikko Gurashi Shop Tokyo – The only permanent store in Japan dedicated to Sumikko Gurashi.
Crayon Shin-chan Official Shop – The world’s first official Crayon Shin-chan shop.
Donguri Republic – Studio Ghibli’s magical world of Totoro, Spirited Away, and more.
Ultraman World M78 – Action figures and toys for tokusatsu fans.
Pretty Cure Store – Colorful goods from the Precure series.
Rilakkuma Store – The relaxing bear’s best goods are here.
JUMP Shop – Items from Naruto, One Piece, Demon Slayer, Dragon ball, and other Weekly Shonen Jump hits.
Snoopy Town Mini – A must for Peanuts lovers.
Detective Conan Plaza – Official merchandise from the long-running mystery anime and manga series Detective Conan (By 15th Jun.).
ONE PIECE MUGIWARA STORE TOKYO STATION – Dedicated to the world-famous pirate adventure One Piece, offering figures, apparel, and limited-edition items.
TV Station Shops – Each Japanese TV station (NHK, TBS, Fuji TV, etc.) has its own store with character goods and original merchandise.

Many more stores and seasonal popup stores.

How to Get There

Direct Access from JR Tokyo Station:

From the Yaesu North Exit, go down the stairs immediately on your left. You’ll see Character Street right ahead.
From the Yaesu Underground Central Exit, turn left after exiting the ticket gates. It’s just a few steps away.

From Tokyo Metro:

From Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line, follow signs toward JR Tokyo Station and head to the basement.
From Otemachi Station (Tokyo Metro Tozai Line), walk through the underground passage toward Tokyo Station Ichibangai.

Opening Hours and Information

Hours: 10:00 AM – 8:30 PM
Open daily (Check for holiday hours during New Year)
Address: B1F, Tokyo Station Ichibangai, 1-9-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda, Tokyo
Official Website: Tokyo Character Street

Parking Info

There is no dedicated parking for Tokyo Character Street, but nearby options include:

Yaesu Parking Lot (Yaesu Underground Mall)

Open 24 hours
Rates: ¥110/10 min for first 30 minutes, then ¥330/30 min
Up to ¥8,000/day
Free parking hours available if you shop at Daimaru or Yaesu Underground Mall (not Character Street)

Pro Tips for Tourists

Credit cards are accepted at most shops.
Tax-free shopping is available at some stores for purchases over ¥5,000—bring your passport!
Expect crowds on weekends and holidays—weekday mornings are quieter.
Look out for limited-time pop-up stores with exclusive merchandise.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a lifelong anime fan or just curious about Japanese culture, Tokyo Character Street is a must-visit. It’s not just shopping—it’s an experience of Japan’s creativity, nostalgia, and charm, all in one underground corridor just steps from Tokyo Station.

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