Top Anime Destinations: 10 Must-Visit Anime Experiences Worldwide

Every anime fan dreams of immersing themselves in a world of anime and manga. Whether you're in Paris or Tokyo, here are the top anime experiences for globetrotting fans. Anime has a global presence, and Tokyo is the epicenter of Otaku culture. It's no surprise that there are numerous opportunities to indulge in anime and manga around the world.

Explore a range of experiences for all anime enthusiasts, from charming cafes to thrilling theme parks. Just like the vibrant world of anime, these attractions offer a colorful and diverse array of options. Let's discover the top ten anime experiences worldwide.

10 best anime experiences around the world

In recent decades, anime and manga have become prominent fixtures in global pop culture. While it has only recently garnered widespread mainstream appeal, numerous anime-themed attractions have emerged worldwide. Therefore, let's explore the top ten offerings.

1. The Studio Ghibli Museum

Explore your inner child at the Studio Ghibli Museum in Tokyo, dedicated to beloved classics like Howl’s Moving Castle and Spirited Away. This multi-story museum offers everything a Studio Ghibli fan could want, allowing you to immerse yourself in the artistry and mechanics of the anime world with all of Hayao Miyazaki’s works. Don't miss this unique opportunity for an unforgettable anime experience.

Location: Tokyo, Japan

2. Hello Kitty Grand Café

Are you looking for something that’s a little more kawaii? Then look no further, because Sanrio’s Hello Kitty Cafe is an experience you don’t want to miss.

Hello Kitty cafes from Sanrio have been established in various locations worldwide. This includes two spots in Las Vegas and a recent addition in Brighton, England. Despite this, the Hello Kitty Grand Café in California remains one of the most acclaimed versions globally. Visitors can enjoy a delightfully adorable menu featuring cookies, cakes, and other delectable treats, all paired with Hello Kitty merchandise. This experience is a visual delight and ideal for any Hello Kitty enthusiasts looking to capture Instagram-worthy moments.

Location: Irvine, California (Although, there could be a pop-up version closer to you)

3. Soupa Saiyan

Do you know what’s better than Asian-fusion cuisine? A Dragon Ball Z-themed noodle bar, of course.

Florida is famous for being the home of the unique and extraordinary, such as the Dragon Ball Z-themed Soupa Saiyan restaurant. Diners can indulge in dishes inspired by the popular anime series, like the Vegeta Rian Bowl, while being surrounded by life-sized statues, arcade games, and collectible figurines. If you're a fan of Dragon Ball and delicious noodles (and really, who isn't?), then this restaurant is a must-visit destination for you.

Location: Orlando, Florida

4. London Anime & Gaming Con

Our next stop takes us all the way to London for the highly-rated Anime & Gaming Con.

Twice a year, in February and August, Soho hosts a strategic shopping trip for hidden anime gems before culminating in the London Anime & Gaming Con. This event features stage events, merchandise, cosplay, and gaming tournaments, making it Europe’s largest anime event that you won't want to miss.

Location: London, England

5. Nijigen no Mori Theme Park

Nijigen no Mori Theme Park is the biggest anime and manga-inspired amusement park in the world.

This expansive theme park on Awaji Island brings together all the elements that every Otaku enthusiast craves, such as obstacle courses inspired by Takeshi’s Castle, a Naruto-themed Hidden Leaf Village featuring a replica of Hokage Rock, a thrilling Godzilla zipline ride, and outdoor RPG Dragon Quest attractions. The park is situated in Osaka, Japan.

6. Hi-Score Club

The walls are adorned with custom anime-themed artwork, and the cocktail menu includes drinks such as Master Roshi and Bebop, making Phoenix’s Hi-Score Club the ideal spot for an Otaku night out. The lounge bar is dedicated to providing a fun, welcoming atmosphere for gaming enthusiasts and was initially planned as a Japanese-themed arcade before becoming the beloved iconic bar it is today.

Immerse yourself in Japanese pop culture at our Phoenix location with a drink menu featuring sake bombs and Japanese whiskey. Enjoy popular series like Cowboy Bebop playing on the TVs, providing entertainment if you're not in the mood for conversation.

7. Manga Café V2

Experience the ambiance of Japanese anime culture right in the heart of Paris, just a stone's throw away from the Eiffel Tower. This one-of-a-kind café, established in the late 1970s, is a haven for anime enthusiasts, offering a wide array of video games, merchandise, and manga. Additionally, patrons can indulge in an anime-themed dining experience complete with refreshing drinks and bento boxes.

Location: Paris, France

8. Suginami Animation Museum

Discover the ultimate destination for anime fans in Tokyo, and dive into the rich history of anime at the Suginami Animation Museum.

The single-floor space contains a collection of hit anime dating back to 1917. Visitors can also try their hand at voice animation or creating their own drawings. Located in Tokyo, Japan.

9. Animate Cafe

When in Seoul, Korea, make sure to visit the Animate Cafe where food and anime are perfectly paired. This popular destination for anime fans features themed drinks, limited merchandise, and a selection of anime-inspired cuisine based on your favorite series, such as Spy x Family.

This theme cafe is always based on the latest popular anime, so be sure to check ahead and make sure you don't miss out on your favorite. Located in Seoul, Korea.

10. Pokémon Café

Finally, we have the world's very first official Pokémon Cafe. Featuring a specially crafted menu inspired by the beloved franchise, visitors can fully immerse themselves in the world of Pokémon. Due to its popularity, this attraction requires reservations, which can be easily made online. The menu includes popular dishes such as the Everybody's Favorite Pikachu Plate and Eevee's Have-it-all Meal, with special appearances from Pokémon characters daily.

In Tokyo, Japan, there are numerous options for anime-themed attractions, making it the top destination for Otakus worldwide. However, for those unwilling to travel to Japan, there are still plenty of other options available, from gaming lounges to adorable cafes, catering to anime enthusiasts everywhere.

Check out our other anime coverage here.

Editor's P/S

As a Gen Z netizen, I am excited about the growing popularity of anime and manga around the world. The top anime destinations listed in this article offer unique and immersive experiences for fans of all ages.

From the enchanting Studio Ghibli Museum in Tokyo to the whimsical Hello Kitty Grand Café in California, these destinations provide opportunities to explore the vibrant world of anime and manga. Whether it's indulging in delicious Dragon Ball Z-themed noodles at Soupa Saiyan in Florida or attending the highly-rated Anime & Gaming Con in London, there's something for every anime enthusiast.

Overall, I believe these top anime destinations offer exciting and memorable experiences that allow fans to connect with their favorite characters and stories in new and exciting ways.