Tokyo Anime Center in DNP PLAZA SHIBUYA Complete Guide | Everything About Pilgrimage Sites and Latest Anime Experiences
As a hub for disseminating Japanese anime culture to the world, “Tokyo Anime Center in DNP PLAZA SHIBUYA” reopened in April 2021 inside Shibuya MODI. This facility, which offers innovative animation experiences where real and virtual merge, is attracting attention as an essential pilgrimage site for anime fans. This article comprehensively explains information you should know before visiting, from the facility’s attractions to exhibition information, access methods, and ways to enjoy pilgrimage sites.
What is Tokyo Anime Center | Core Facility for Disseminating Japanese Anime Culture
Tokyo Anime Center is a facility jointly operated by the Association of Japanese Animations (AJA) and Dai Nippon Printing Co., Ltd. (DNP), aimed at disseminating information about Japanese anime culture and nurturing human resources. With the concept of “An anime center where everyone’s favorites connect,” it functions as a place where creators and fans can interact and learn about and experience anime and manga content.
History and Transitions of the Facility
The history of Tokyo Anime Center began on March 15, 2006, with its establishment inside Akihabara UDX in Soto-Kanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo. It started as a hub for interaction between anime fans and creators in Akihabara, known as the holy land of anime.
In July 2017, it relocated to DNP Plaza in Ichigaya and continued operations as “Tokyo Anime Center in DNP Plaza.” Then in April 2021, it moved to Shibuya, which continues to evolve as an international city, making a fresh start as the current “Tokyo Anime Center in DNP PLAZA SHIBUYA.” Each relocation represents a strategic development to deliver anime culture to more people and symbolizes the facility’s evolution.
New Experiential Value Where Real and Virtual Merge
The greatest feature of the current Tokyo Anime Center in DNP PLAZA SHIBUYA is its innovative approach of developing real and virtual experiences in parallel. By simultaneously deploying online streaming and virtual exhibitions alongside special exhibitions and events in physical exhibition spaces, it provides animation experiences that transcend constraints of location and time.
This initiative allows fans from distant locations who cannot visit the venue and overseas anime fans to enjoy the same content. Additionally, the interaction between real and virtual creates deeper fan experiences and new forms of communication.
Facility Overview and Access Information
Basic Information
Facility Name: Tokyo Anime Center in DNP PLAZA SHIBUYA
Location: Shibuya MODI 2F, 1-21-3 Jinnan, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Business Hours: 11:00 – 20:30 (Last admission 30 minutes before closing)
Closed: Follows Shibuya MODI’s closing days
Admission Fee: Varies by exhibition (some areas are free)
Management: Association of Japanese Animations, Dai Nippon Printing Co., Ltd.
Access Methods
Tokyo Anime Center in DNP PLAZA SHIBUYA is conveniently located within walking distance from Shibuya Station.
Access by Train:
- 5 minutes walk from JR Shibuya Station Hachiko Exit
- 3 minutes walk from Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line, Hanzomon Line, Ginza Line Shibuya Station
- 3 minutes walk from Tokyu Toyoko Line, Den-en-toshi Line Shibuya Station
- 5 minutes walk from Keio Inokashira Line Shibuya Station
It is located on the 2nd floor of Shibuya MODI along Meiji-dori from Shibuya Scramble Crossing. Multiple train lines are available from Shibuya Station, making accessibility one of its attractions.
Access by Car:
Shibuya MODI does not have a dedicated parking lot, but there are multiple coin parking lots in the surrounding area. However, since Shibuya has heavy traffic and high parking fees, we recommend using public transportation.
Special Exhibitions | Encounters with Latest Animation Works
The core of Tokyo Anime Center in DNP PLAZA SHIBUYA is the special exhibitions held regularly. A diverse range of exhibitions are developed, including original artwork exhibitions of popular anime works, displays of production materials, and interactive exhibitions utilizing the latest technology.
Features of Special Exhibitions
Special exhibitions feature various forms of animation works, including TV anime, theatrical anime, and web anime. Visitors can view production process materials such as original artwork, setting materials, and storyboards up close, providing a valuable opportunity to feel the techniques and passion of creators.
Additionally, experiential exhibitions utilizing digital technology are extensive, with presentations that allow immersion in the anime worldview. Exhibitions using AR (Augmented Reality) and VR (Virtual Reality) make it possible to take photos with characters or experience the story’s setting in 360 degrees.
Past Major Special Exhibitions
Since opening, special exhibitions of numerous popular works have been held. The lineup is characterized by variety, including anniversary exhibitions of popular series, promotional exhibitions of new anime, and special features on renowned creators.
Exhibition information is regularly updated on the official website and SNS, and some exhibitions require advance reservations, so we recommend checking the latest information before visiting.
How to Enjoy Special Exhibitions
Here are some tips for enjoying special exhibitions to the fullest.
1. Check Information in Advance: Confirm exhibition content, duration, fees, and reservation requirements on the official website. Popular exhibitions tend to be crowded on weekends and final days.
2. Utilize Audio Guides: Some special exhibitions provide audio guides, allowing you to learn detailed background information and production anecdotes.
3. Confirm Photography-Permitted Areas: Photography rules vary by exhibition. Many Instagram-worthy photo spots are set up, so check photography-permitted areas and enjoy commemorative photos.
4. Check Related Goods: Exhibition-limited original goods often sell out, so early purchase is recommended for items you like.
Store | Original Goods Available Only Here
The store at Tokyo Anime Center in DNP PLAZA SHIBUYA sells official goods from various anime works, including special exhibition-related goods.
Appeal of Original Goods
The store’s greatest appeal is original goods exclusive to Tokyo Anime Center. Limited items from exhibition works become valuable collection items for fans. A diverse range of products is available, including acrylic stands, can badges, clear files, T-shirts, and tapestries.
Additionally, high-quality goods utilizing DNP’s printing technology are one of its features. Art prints and postcards that faithfully reproduce the charm of original artwork through precise printing quality receive high praise not only from anime fans but also from art enthusiasts.
Popular Product Categories
Character Goods: Figures, plush toys, key holders, and more featuring popular characters
Stationery & Lifestyle Goods: Items for daily use such as anime-designed notebooks, pens, mugs, and tote bags
Apparel: Fashion items like T-shirts, hoodies, and caps that subtly express anime love
Collector’s Items: Limited edition Blu-rays/DVDs, autographed goods, reproduction original artwork, etc.
Shopping Points
The store can be used without an exhibition ticket, so visits solely for purchasing goods are possible. However, popular products may sell out early, so visiting right after opening is recommended if you have items you’re targeting.
Additionally, new products arrive regularly, so there’s enjoyment in visiting multiple times. Official SNS accounts share new product information and restocking information, so following them is convenient.
As a Base for Pilgrimage Sites | Anime Tourism Association Certified Spot
Tokyo Anime Center in DNP PLAZA SHIBUYA is a stamp location for the “88 Anime Pilgrimage Sites in Japan You Want to Visit” selected by the Anime Tourism Association.
What is Anime Pilgrimage Sites 88
Since the 2018 edition, the Anime Tourism Association has annually selected and officialized the “88 Anime Pilgrimage Sites in Japan You Want to Visit,” actively disseminating information domestically and internationally. This initiative certifies regions that served as settings for anime works and hubs for anime culture dissemination as “pilgrimage sites,” supporting anime fans’ journeys.
Tokyo Anime Center is certified as a comprehensive hub for anime culture dissemination and as an anime pilgrimage site in the international city of Shibuya.
How to Obtain Stamps
At Tokyo Anime Center in DNP PLAZA SHIBUYA, you can obtain stamps for the Anime Pilgrimage Sites 88. Stamps are installed at designated locations within the facility and can be collected as visit commemorations.
Collecting stamps is one of the pleasures of touring anime pilgrimage sites nationwide. Dedicated stamp books are also sold, making it recommended for those who want to start pilgrimage site tours.
Anime Pilgrimage Tours in the Shibuya Area
Using Tokyo Anime Center as a starting point, touring anime pilgrimage sites in the Shibuya area is also recommended. Shibuya has served as the setting for many anime works, and you can visit real locations that appear in works, such as Scramble Crossing, Center Street, and Dogenzaka.
By enjoying walking through the city while experiencing the worldview of works using popular work pilgrimage site maps, you can gain deeper anime experiences. Tokyo Anime Center also provides information about pilgrimage sites, so consulting with staff is also a good idea.
Events & Workshops | Places for Interaction Between Creators and Fans
At Tokyo Anime Center in DNP PLAZA SHIBUYA, various events and workshops are regularly held in conjunction with special exhibitions.
Talk Events & Autograph Sessions
Talk events and autograph sessions featuring popular voice actors, directors, animators, manga artists, and other creators are valuable opportunities for interaction with fans. You can directly hear stories you can only hear here, such as production anecdotes, thoughts about works, and the latest industry trends.
Many events require advance application, and some may be decided by lottery when applications exceed capacity. We recommend checking official websites and SNS frequently as they announce events.
Experiential Workshops
Workshops where you can experience anime production sites are also popular. You can learn aspects of anime production under professional guidance, including drawing experiences, dubbing experiences, and introductions to animation production.
These workshops provide valuable learning opportunities for students aiming for the anime industry and general people interested in anime production.
Online Events
In addition to real events, online events in virtual spaces are also actively developed. As a new form of event that allows participation regardless of geographical constraints, they are attracting attention as something fans from all over the country and world can enjoy simultaneously.
Various events utilizing digital technology are held, including talk shows via live streaming, online tours of virtual exhibitions, and fan-participatory projects using SNS.
Human Resource Development and Contribution to the Anime Industry
One of Tokyo Anime Center’s important roles is nurturing human resources for the anime industry. Various initiatives for nurturing next-generation creators are conducted under the cooperation of the Association of Japanese Animations and DNP.
Supporting Young Creators
By providing places for new animators and young directors to present their works, it supports discovering and nurturing talented individuals. As part of special exhibitions, it provides opportunities to create contact points with industry professionals and fans by screening and exhibiting young creators’ works.
Educational Programs
Through student-oriented anime production courses and industry seminars, it provides opportunities to deepen understanding of the anime industry. Opportunities to learn directly from current professionals are valuable experiences for young people aiming for careers in the anime industry.
Promoting Industry-Academia Collaboration
Through collaboration with anime-related educational institutions and companies, it creates practical learning opportunities. It fulfills the role of connecting education and industry, such as student work exhibitions and presentations of industry-academia joint project results.
Global Information Dissemination | Hub for Global Anime Culture
Tokyo Anime Center in DNP PLAZA SHIBUYA also functions as an important hub for disseminating Japanese anime culture to the world.
Multilingual Support
Facility guidance and exhibition explanations are provided in multiple languages, including Japanese, English, and Chinese. An environment is established where overseas tourists can easily visit and enjoy anime culture beyond language barriers.
Base for Overseas Expansion
In 2024, the first permanent overseas location of Tokyo Anime Center opened in San Francisco, advancing global development. The Shibuya facility serves as the core of such overseas expansion, playing a role in delivering Japanese anime culture to the world.
Contribution to Inbound Tourism
For foreign tourists visiting Japan, Tokyo Anime Center is an important spot for experiencing Japanese pop culture. By being located in the international tourist destination of Shibuya, it accepts visits from a wide range of people interested in Japanese culture, not just anime fans.
Collaboration with DNP | Fusion of Technology and Content
Through joint operation with Dai Nippon Printing (DNP), Tokyo Anime Center provides unique experiential value that fuses advanced technology and content.
Utilization of Printing Technology
DNP’s advanced printing technology enables high-quality reproduction of original artwork and setting materials for use in exhibitions and goods production. Printed materials with attention to color reproduction and detailed precision make it possible to deliver the charm of original artwork to many people without loss.
Introduction of Digital Technology
Utilizing DNP’s digital technology and media production know-how, exhibition presentations using the latest technology such as AR/VR exhibitions, digital signage, and interactive content are realized.
Content Business Development
Through collaboration with DNP’s content distribution platforms, content development spanning real and virtual becomes possible. Seamless fan experiences are provided, such as continuing experiences gained from exhibitions online or purchasing digital content as physical goods.
Information to Know Before Visiting
Congestion Status and Visit Timing
Tokyo Anime Center in DNP PLAZA SHIBUYA’s congestion status varies greatly depending on exhibition content and timing.
Times Likely to Be Crowded:
- During popular work special exhibitions
- Weekends and holidays
- Long vacation periods such as summer vacation, winter vacation, spring vacation
- Final weeks and final days of special exhibitions
Relatively Uncrowded Times:
- Weekdays right after opening (11:00-12:00)
- Weekday evenings and later (after 18:00)
- Early periods of special exhibitions
Visits on weekdays are recommended for those who want to view exhibitions leisurely.
Ticket Purchase Methods
Tickets for special exhibitions can be purchased in the following ways.
Same-Day Tickets: Can be purchased at the facility reception (admission may be restricted during congestion)
Advance Tickets: Can be purchased in advance on online ticket sites (no worry of selling out, smooth admission)
Tickets with Benefits: Tickets with benefits such as limited goods may sometimes be sold
Purchasing advance tickets is recommended for popular exhibitions.
Facility Rules and Manners
To maintain a comfortable viewing environment, please follow these rules.
- Touching exhibits is prohibited
- Photography only in permitted areas
- Eating and drinking only in designated areas
- Refrain from loud conversations
- Be considerate of other visitors
Combination with Nearby Facilities
Inside Shibuya MODI, many fashion, general goods, and dining establishments are housed. You can enjoy shopping and dining in combination with visiting Tokyo Anime Center.
Additionally, in the Shibuya area, there are many commercial facilities such as Shibuya Hikarie, Shibuya Parco, and Shibuya 109, making it an area you can enjoy all day. Anime and manga-related shops and cafes are also scattered throughout, so touring them in combination with pilgrimage sites is also recommended.
How to Obtain Latest Information
Latest information about Tokyo Anime Center in DNP PLAZA SHIBUYA can be obtained through the following methods.
Official Website
The official website (https://tokyoanimecenter.jp/) regularly updates information on current and scheduled special exhibitions, event information, changes in business hours, etc. Be sure to check before visiting.
Official SNS
Official SNS accounts on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, etc. share exhibition scenes, new product information, event announcements, and more in a timely manner. By following them, you can obtain the latest information quickly.
Email Newsletter
Email newsletters that can be registered from the official website deliver advance information on special exhibitions and notifications of priority ticket sales.
Association of Japanese Animations Information
Information about Tokyo Anime Center is also published on the website of the operating organization, the Association of Japanese Animations (https://aja.gr.jp/).
Summary | Continuously Evolving Hub for Anime Culture Dissemination
Tokyo Anime Center in DNP PLAZA SHIBUYA is an innovative facility that goes beyond a mere exhibition facility, providing new anime experiences where real and virtual merge. After relocating from Akihabara and Ichigaya to its current location in Shibuya, it functions as an important hub disseminating Japanese anime culture to the world from the center of an international city.
With multifaceted attractions such as extensive special exhibitions, a store with original goods, interaction events between creators and fans, and its role as a pilgrimage site base, this facility is an indispensable spot for anime fans.
Additionally, it makes great contributions to the entire Japanese anime industry through human resource development and global expansion, playing an important role as a place that creates the future of anime culture.
For those who love anime, those interested in Japanese pop culture, and those seeking creative experiences, Tokyo Anime Center in DNP PLAZA SHIBUYA is a must-see spot. When you visit Shibuya, please be sure to stop by. The latest animation experiences await you.
