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Tokyo's Ikebukuro district is a vibrant, bustling hub that offers more than just high-rise buildings and neon lights. It's a place where modern pop culture, historic charm, and incredible shopping collide. If you’re looking for a day packed with unique experiences, here's your guide to the 6 best things to do in Ikebukuro.

1. Fuel Up at Mermaid Coffee Roasters

Start your day with a visit to Mermaid Coffee Roasters. This charming, quirky cafe is the perfect spot to get a jolt of energy before you dive into the day's adventures. They serve up high-quality, freshly roasted coffee in a cozy, multi-floor setting.

Cozy seating at Mermaid Cafe — Cozy seating

Whether you want to relax, work, or chat with friends, you’ll find the perfect spot. The friendly service and welcoming atmosphere make it a favorite for both serious coffee lovers and those just looking for a comfortable place to hang out.

Holding a tiny tray with coffee — Crystal loves tiny trays

2. Step Back in Time at Japan's Oldest Candy Store

For a heartwarming contrast to Ikebukuro’s modern energy, take a trip to Kamikawaguchiya. Located on the serene grounds of Kishimojindo Temple, this historic dagashiya (traditional candy store) is a beautiful glimpse into old Japan.

Kamikawaguchiya Dagashiya Store in Ikebukuro — Kamikawaguchiya

Before convenience stores were on every corner, these little shops were where people bought simple sweets. In an age where they've become increasingly rare, visiting Kamikawaguchiya is a truly special and nostalgic experience.

Kishimojindo Temple in Ikebukuro — Kishimojindo Temple

3. Dive into Pop Culture at Sunshine City Mall

Sunshine City is a massive mall, but it's what's inside that makes it a must-visit. You’ll find the world’s largest Gashapon store and a huge Pokémon Center. Even if you're not a die-hard fan, you’ll have a blast exploring the various shops, where you can find Japanese fashion brands and unique items you won't see anywhere else.

Sunshine City Mall Pokémon Center — Pokémon Center

Need a break from shopping? Head up to the Sunshine 60 Observatory Tenbo Park. For a small fee, you can get breathtaking panoramic views of Tokyo. With plenty of photo opportunities, comfortable seating, and a cafe offering light bites and desserts, it’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy the scenery from above.

4. A Paradise for Anime Fans: Animate Ikebukuro

Ikebukuro has recently become an even bigger and more vibrant hub for anime culture than Akihabara, and a big reason for that is Animate Ikebukuro.

Animate Ikebukuro Building — Animate Ikebukuro

As the world’s largest Animate store, this place is a paradise for fans. It has nine floors, each dedicated to a unique theme, so be prepared to spend at least half a day exploring everything. From manga and figures to cosplay and merchandise, you'll find some of the best and most diverse anime goods here.

5. Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth at These Cafes

No trip is complete without dessert and thankfully, Ikebukuro is a fantastic spot to satisfy any craving for Japanese sweets.

Sweets Paradise: A Dessert Lover's Dream

For the ultimate sugar rush, you have to hit up Sweets Paradise. This isn't your typical high-end patisserie; it's an all-you-can-eat dessert buffet that lives up to its name. Picture a wonderland of cakes, pastries, and treats as far as the eye can see.

While it may not be the most gourmet experience, the sheer variety is a dream come true for anyone with a sweet tooth. The best part? They also have savory options like pasta and curry. Our pro tip: skip a meal or two beforehand, come with an empty stomach, and be prepared to indulge.

Sweets Paradise Japan — Sweets Paradise HomePage

Milky Way: Parfaits and People-Watching

Japan is famous for its towering parfaits, and you'll find them on almost every dessert menu. We were determined to try the legendary parfaits at Milky Way, a cafe known for its incredible variety of creations.

While the wait was longer than we had time for, it was still a blast just looking at their food displays—seriously, there are so many different kinds of parfaits. The cafe's seating overlooks the bustling Ikebukuro crosswalk, a mini version of the famous Shibuya Crossing, making it the perfect spot for some people-watching while you eat.

Popular Parfait at Milky Way — #1 Parfait at Milky Way

Mermaid Cafe: A Cozy, Delicious Discovery

We decided to skip the buffet and the hour-long wait for a more relaxed experience, and that's how we stumbled upon the charming Mermaid Cafe. Yes, you heard that right—another cafe with a mermaid name. This cozy spot was the perfect find. We were craving a simple dessert, and they delivered. We enjoyed a light and fluffy Japanese cheesecake and French toast.

Japanese Fluffy Cheese Cake — Japanese Cheese Cake

6. Shop All Three Daiso Brands at Tobu Department Store

Daiso has become a global favorite, but what if you could find not just one, but all three of its popular brands in a single location? Head to the Tobu Department Store to explore the full range of Daiso's offerings.

Shopping at Daiso Japan — Shopping at Daiso

While the classic DAISO brand is well-known, this store also features Standard Products for minimalist homewares and THREEPPY for cute and colorful items. It's a one-stop shop for anyone who loves budget-friendly Japanese goods.

TO RECAP

As you can see, Ikebukuro is filled with a variety of fun and unique things to do that cater to all kinds of interests. Which of these locations interests you the most?

1. Mermaid Coffee Roasters
2. Japan’s Oldest Candy Store
3. Sunshine City Mall
4. Animate Ikebukuro
5. Sweets Paradise
6. Tobu Department Store

RECOMMENDED TOURS

If you feel more comfortable having a guide with you and/or want to immerse yourself into the anime and manga world even more, here are a couple of tours that could be fun!

Tokyo Anime and Game Shopping Tour in Ikebukuro

Tokyo/Ikebukuro Manga lesson by acitive pro-Manga artists