Retro to VR Akihabara Evolution Game Experience Tour
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Join a tour by MagicalTrip, each experience is led by a MagicalTrip Certified Guide, professionally trained and carefully selected to ensure quality and authenticity.
Explore Akihabara, Tokyo's gaming haven, on this immersive 3.5-hour tour. Discover the evolution of gaming from retro arcade classics to the latest VR innovations. Enjoy hands-on play with four different games, guided by a friendly local expert who shares insights into Japan's gaming culture. Whether you're an avid gamer or just curious, you'll appreciate the unique atmosphere and camaraderie of this vibrant district.
- 3.5-hour small group tour with English-speaking guide
- Play 3 classic arcade games and 1 cutting-edge VR game
- Learn about Akihabara's gaming history and culture
- Game fees included; perfect for solo travelers and gaming enthusiasts alike
Available options
Retro to VR Akihabara Evolution Game Experience Tour
What's included
Play 1 VR game fee
A Certified guide by MagicalTrip
Play 3 different arcade games fee
Tour Photos
Detailed itinerary
1
Meet at JR Akihabara Station (Electric Town Gate)
2
Stop 2
Stroll through Electric Town
As you explore famous landmarks, learn how this once-niche district grew into a global pop culture hotspot.
3
Stop 3
Explore a game center
Your first stop is a rare retro arcade floor filled with classic machines you don’t often see anymore. Play legendary arcade games that once became nationwide sensations and discover how gaming first captured people’s hearts in Japan—through hands-on play, not just stories.
Browse shelves full of gaming history while learning how playstyles shifted from arcades to home consoles.
4
Stop 4
Check out a retro game store
Next, visit one of Japan’s top retro game specialty shops, packed with iconic titles from Nintendo, Sega, and PlayStation. Browse shelves full of gaming history while learning how playstyles shifted from arcades to home consoles.
5
Stop 5
Play retro and latest arcade games
Then head to a large, lively game center loved by locals of all ages. Enjoy friendly competition with your group by playing classics like Street Fighter or choosing between Taiko no Tatsujin and Mario Kart, just like Japanese gamers do today.
6
Stop 6
Immerse yourself in a VR game
Wrap up the tour with a leap into the future at a cutting-edge VR gaming studio. After a clear introduction, gear up with high-performance VR headsets and controllers. Step into a fully immersive, room-scale VR game where you physically walk around, solve puzzles, and cooperate with your teammates. With around 50 minutes on the clock, work together to clear the mission and experience the moment when reality and virtual space truly blur—an unforgettable finale to your gaming journey.
7
End near JR Kanda Station
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Please bring comfortable walking shoes and any personal necessities, as the tour involves walking and standing.
The itinerary includes some locations that are not wheelchair- or stroller-accessible.
This tour is not recommended for guests with mobility issues. If you have difficulty walking, we strongly recommend booking a private tour.
Out of respect for other guests and to ensure a smooth experience, please arrive on time as the tour will start promptly.
If you arrive late and miss the group, you will not be able to join the tour, and refunds or rescheduling will not be provided.
Japan’s climate can be extreme, with summer highs of 40°C (110°F) and winter lows around -5°C (20°F). Please prepare accordingly.
Photography is welcome, but please be respectful of other guests and any photo restrictions at certain venues.
Meeting point
In front of Ticket Office right outside of Electric Town Gate of JR Akihabara station
Your guide will be holding a red/orange sign saying "MagicalTrip"
About Tokyo
Tokyo, the capital of Japan, is a bustling metropolis that beautifully blends traditional culture with cutting-edge technology. Known for its neon-lit streets, historic temples, and world-class cuisine, Tokyo offers a unique experience that caters to every type of traveler.
Top Attractions
Senso-ji Temple
Senso-ji is Tokyo's oldest temple and one of its most significant. The temple's massive lantern and five-story pagoda are iconic landmarks.
Historical/Religious
1-2 hours
Free (small fee for some areas)
Meiji Shrine
Meiji Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken. It is surrounded by a beautiful forest.
Historical/Religious
1-2 hours
Free
Shibuya Crossing
Shibuya Crossing is the world's busiest pedestrian crossing and a symbol of Tokyo's bustling urban life. It's a must-see for its chaotic yet orderly nature.
Cultural
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free (¥2,200 for Shibuya Sky)
Tokyo Skytree
Tokyo Skytree is the tallest tower in Japan and the second tallest freestanding structure in the world. It offers breathtaking views of the city.
Architecture
2-3 hours
¥2,100 to ¥3,100 (USD $15 to $22)
Odaiba
Odaiba is a man-made island in Tokyo Bay known for its shopping, dining, and entertainment options. It's a great place for families and tech enthusiasts.
Entertainment
Half day to full day
Varies by attraction
Must-Try Local Dishes
Sushi
Fresh raw fish served on vinegared rice, a staple of Japanese cuisine.
Dinner
Contains fish, can be vegetarian with substitutes.
Ramen
Noodle soup with various broths and toppings, a popular comfort food.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegan and vegetarian options available.
Tempura
Deep-fried seafood and vegetables, known for its crispy texture.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains seafood and deep-fried ingredients.
Okonomiyaki
Savory pancake with various ingredients, often topped with sauce and bonito flakes.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains seafood and can be made vegetarian.
Popular Activities
Hiking in the nearby mountains
Parasailing at Odaiba
Onsen (hot spring) visits
Tea ceremonies
Traditional tea ceremonies
Kimono rentals and photo shoots
Boat tours on the Sumida River
Beach activities at Odaiba
Best Time to Visit
March to May (Spring) and September to November (Autumn)
These seasons offer comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery, with cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. However, these are also the busiest times for tourism.
10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F)
50°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Japanese
- Widely spoken: English, Chinese, Korean
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Time Zone
GMT+9
Electricity
100VV, 50/60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Very safe
Tokyo is generally very safe, with low crime rates and a strong emphasis on public order. However, petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas.
- • Use licensed taxis and check fares before getting in.
- • Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
Getting there
By air
- Narita International Airport • 60 km (37 miles) from city center
- Haneda Airport • 15 km (9 miles) from city center
By train
Tokyo Station, Shinjuku Station
By bus
Tokyo Station Bus Terminal, Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Tokyo's subway system is efficient, clean, and punctual. It consists of multiple lines operated by Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway.
Taxis
Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Shibuya
Shinjuku
Asakusa
Ginza
Akihabara
Day trips
Nikko
120 km (75 miles) from Tokyo • Full day
Nikko is a city known for its beautiful shrines, temples, and natural scenery. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.
Kamakura
50 km (31 miles) from Tokyo • Half day to full day
Kamakura is a coastal town known for its historic temples, shrines, and the Great Buddha statue. It's a great place to experience traditional Japanese culture.
Hakone
90 km (56 miles) from Tokyo • Full day or overnight
Hakone is a hot spring resort town known for its onsen (hot springs), scenic views of Mount Fuji, and the Open-Air Museum. It's a popular destination for relaxation and nature.
Festivals
Sannō Matsuri • Mid-June (every 2 years)
Kanda Matsuri • Mid-May (every 2 years)
Sumida River Fireworks Festival • Last Saturday of July
Pro tips
- Use IC cards like Suica or Pasmo for convenient and discounted public transport.
- Download useful apps like Google Maps, Japan Transit Planner, and Japan Travel by Navitime.
- Learn a few basic Japanese phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture.
- Carry cash, as some smaller shops and restaurants may not accept credit cards.
- Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
$60
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
