【Tokyo Anime Center in DNP PLAZA SHIBUYA】 Tokyo
“Tokyo Anime Center in DNP PLAZA SHIBUYA,” which reopened in April 2021 within Shibuya Modi as a hub for transmitting Japanese anime culture to the world. This facility, which provides innovative animation experiences through the fusion of real and virtual, is garnering attention as an indispensable pilgrimage spot for anime fans. This article comprehensively explains everything you should know before visiting, from the facility’s attractions to information on planned exhibitions, access methods, and how to enjoy sacred site pilgrimages.
What is Tokyo Anime Center | Core Facility for Japan’s Anime Culture Dissemination
Tokyo Anime Center is a facility jointly operated by the Japan Animation Association (AJA), a general incorporated association, and Dai Nippon Printing Co., Ltd. (DNP), dedicated to information dissemination and human resource development for Japanese anime culture. Under the concept of “Connecting Everyone’s Favorites, Anime Center,” it functions as a place where creators and fans interact, and where people can learn about, study, and experience anime and manga content.
History and Evolution of the Facility
Tokyo Anime Center’s history began on March 15, 2006, with its opening in Akihabara UDX in Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo. It started as an interaction hub for anime fans and creators in Akihabara, known as a sacred site for 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 relocated to Shibuya, which continues to evolve as an international city, and began anew as the current “Tokyo Anime Center in DNP PLAZA SHIBUYA.” Each relocation represents a strategic deployment to deliver anime culture to more people and symbolizes the facility’s evolution.
New Experience Value Through the Fusion of Real and Virtual
The greatest characteristic of the current Tokyo Anime Center in DNP PLAZA SHIBUYA is its innovative approach of parallel deployment of real and virtual. In addition to hosting planned exhibitions and events in physical display spaces, it simultaneously develops online distribution and virtual exhibitions, providing animation experiences that transcend limitations of place and time.
Through this initiative, fans from remote areas and anime enthusiasts from overseas who cannot visit the venue can enjoy the same content. Additionally, the interaction between real and virtual is creating deeper fan experiences and new forms of communication.
Facility Overview and Access Information
Basic Information
Facility Name: Tokyo Anime Center in DNP PLAZA SHIBUYA
Address: 2F, Shibuya Modi, 1-21-3 Shibuya Ward, Shibuya, Tokyo
Business Hours: 11:00 – 20:30 (Last admission 30 minutes before closing)
Closed Days: Follows Shibuya Modi’s closure dates
Admission Fee: Varies by planned exhibition (Some free areas available)
Operator: Japan Animation Association, Dai Nippon Printing Co., Ltd.
How to Access
Tokyo Anime Center in DNP PLAZA SHIBUYA is conveniently located within walking distance of Shibuya Station.
By Train:
- 5 minutes walk from Hachiko Exit of JR Shibuya Station
- 3 minutes walk from Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line, Hanzomon Line, and Ginza Line Shibuya Station
- 3 minutes walk from Tokyu Toyoko Line and Denentoshi Line Shibuya Station
- 5 minutes walk from Keio Inokashira Line Shibuya Station
From Shibuya Scramble Intersection, proceed along Meiji Avenue and the facility is located on the 2nd floor of Shibuya Modi. With multiple train lines accessible from Shibuya Station, accessibility is a major attraction.
By Car:
Shibuya Modi does not have a dedicated parking lot, but there are several coin parking lots in the surrounding area. However, since Shibuya experiences heavy traffic and parking fees are high, the use of public transportation is recommended.
Planned Exhibitions | Encounters with the Latest Animation Works
The centerpiece of Tokyo Anime Center in DNP PLAZA SHIBUYA is its regularly held planned exhibitions. A diverse range of exhibitions is developed, including original artwork exhibitions of popular anime works, displays of production materials, and interactive exhibitions utilizing cutting-edge technology.
Characteristics of Planned Exhibitions
Planned exhibitions feature various forms of animation works, including TV anime, theatrical anime, and web anime. Visitors can view original artwork, setting documents, and storyboards, rare materials from the production process, offering a valuable opportunity to feel the technology and passion of creators.
Furthermore, exhibition halls are enriched with experience-type displays utilizing digital technology, with elaborate productions enabling immersion in the anime world. Through exhibitions using AR (augmented reality) and VR (virtual reality), it is possible to take photos with characters or experience a work’s setting in 360 degrees.
Major Past Planned Exhibitions
Since opening, numerous planned exhibitions of notable works have been held. Features include anniversary exhibitions for popular series, promotional displays of new anime, and special features of renowned creators, with a diverse lineup.
Exhibition information is regularly updated on the official website and SNS. Some exhibitions require advance reservations, so it is recommended to check the latest information before visiting.
How to Enjoy Planned Exhibitions
Here are tips for maximizing enjoyment of planned exhibitions.
1. Check Information in Advance: Confirm exhibition content, dates, admission fees, and whether reservations are necessary on the official site. Popular exhibitions tend to be crowded on weekends and final days.
2. Utilize Audio Guides: Some planned exhibitions offer audio guides, allowing detailed knowledge of exhibition backgrounds and production secrets.
3. Confirm Photography-Permitted Areas: Photography rules vary by exhibition. Many photo spots are ideal for social media, so confirm photography-permitted areas and enjoy commemorative photos.
4. Check Related Goods: Planned exhibition limited edition original goods often sell out, so early purchase of desired items is recommended.
Store | Original Goods Available Only Here
The store at Tokyo Anime Center in DNP PLAZA SHIBUYA sells planned exhibition-related goods as well as official merchandise from various anime works.
Appeal of Original Goods
The store’s greatest appeal is Tokyo Anime Center exclusive original goods. Limited edition items from planned exhibition works become valuable collection items for fans. A diverse range of products is available, including acrylic stands, metal badges, clear files, T-shirts, and tapestries.
Additionally, high-quality goods leveraging DNP’s printing technology are a distinctive feature. Fine printing quality faithfully reproduces the charm of original artwork, earning high praise not only from anime fans but also from art enthusiasts.
Popular Product Categories
Character Goods: Figures, plushies, key chains of popular characters, and more
Stationery and Daily Necessities: Anime-design notebooks, pens, mugs, tote bags, and other everyday usable items
Apparel: T-shirts, hoodies, caps, and fashion items allowing subtle expression of anime love
Collector’s Items: Limited edition Blu-ray/DVD, autographed goods, reproduction artwork, and more
Shopping Tips
The store is accessible without an admission ticket to the planned exhibition, so merchandise-only visits are possible. However, popular items may sell out early, so if you have specific items in mind, visiting right after opening is recommended.
As new merchandise is regularly stocked, there is also the pleasure of visiting multiple times. The official SNS shares new product information and restock notifications, making it convenient to follow.
As a Sacred Site Pilgrimage Hub | Anime Tourism Association Recognized Spot
Tokyo Anime Center in DNP PLAZA SHIBUYA is designated as a location for obtaining commemorative stamps for “88 Japanese Anime Sacred Sites Worth Visiting,” selected by the Anime Tourism Association.
What is Anime Sacred Sites 88
The Anime Tourism Association selects “88 Japanese Anime Sacred Sites Worth Visiting” annually beginning with the 2018 edition, actively promoting the information domestically and internationally through official designation. This initiative recognizes locations serving as settings for anime works and hubs of anime culture dissemination as “sacred sites,” supporting anime fan journeys.
Tokyo Anime Center is recognized as a comprehensive anime culture dissemination hub and as a sacred site for anime in Shibuya, an international city.
How to Obtain Commemorative Stamps
Tokyo Anime Center in DNP PLAZA SHIBUYA provides commemorative stamps for the Anime Sacred Sites 88. Stamps are displayed at designated locations within the facility and can be collected as mementos of visits.
Stamp collecting is one of the pleasures of pilgrimage tours to anime sacred sites nationwide. Official stamp books are also sold, making them recommended for those starting sacred site pilgrimages.
Anime Sacred Site Pilgrimages in Shibuya Area
Starting from Tokyo Anime Center and visiting anime sacred sites in the Shibuya area is also recommended. Shibuya serves as the setting for many anime works, allowing visitors to experience real locations appearing in works such as Shibuya Scramble Intersection, Center-gai, and Dogen-zaka.
By consulting popular work sacred site maps and experiencing the works’ worldviews while walking the streets, deeper anime experiences are possible. Tokyo Anime Center also provides information related to sacred site pilgrimages, so consulting staff is worthwhile.
Events and Workshops | Spaces for Creator-Fan Interaction
Tokyo Anime Center in DNP PLAZA SHIBUYA regularly holds various events and workshops coordinated with planned exhibitions.
Talk Events and Signing Sessions
Talk events and signing sessions featuring popular voice actors, directors, animators, manga artists, and other creators are valuable interaction opportunities for fans. Stories about production, thoughts on works, and the latest industry developments—conversations available only here can be heard directly.
Most events require advance applications, with lottery selection if applications exceed capacity. Announcements are made on the official website and SNS, so frequent checking is recommended.
Experiential Workshops
Workshops enabling experiences of anime production sites are popular. Drawing experience, voice-over experience, animation production introduction workshops, and more allow participants to learn aspects of anime production under professional guidance.
These workshops serve as valuable learning opportunities for students aiming for the anime industry and general audiences interested in anime production.
Online Events
In addition to real events, online events in virtual spaces are actively developed. Participation is possible regardless of geographical constraints, allowing fans nationwide and worldwide to enjoy content simultaneously in this new form of event.
Live-streamed talk shows, online tours of virtual exhibitions, and fan-participation projects utilizing SNS represent diverse events leveraging digital technology.
Human Resource Development and Contribution to the Anime Industry
An important role of Tokyo Anime Center is human resource development for the anime industry. Through cooperation between the Japan Animation Association and DNP, various initiatives toward nurturing next-generation creators are undertaken.
Young Creator Support
By providing venues for new animators and young directors to present their works, the facility supports discovery and development of talented individuals. As part of planned exhibitions, screenings and displays of young creator works offer opportunities for contact with industry professionals and fans.
Educational Programs
Through anime production courses for students and industry seminars, opportunities to deepen understanding of the anime industry are provided. Learning directly from working professionals offers valuable experiences for those aiming for anime industry careers.
Academic-Industry Partnership Promotion
Through cooperation with anime-related educational institutions and companies, practical learning venues are created. Student work exhibitions and presentations of academic-industry collaborative project results serve roles connecting education and industry.
Information Dissemination to the World | Global Anime Culture Hub
Tokyo Anime Center in DNP PLAZA SHIBUYA also functions as an important hub for transmitting Japanese anime culture globally.
Multilingual Support
Facility signage and exhibition explanations are provided in multiple languages including Japanese, English, and Chinese. International visitors can comfortably visit and enjoy anime culture beyond language barriers.
Global Expansion Hub
With the opening of Tokyo Anime Center’s first permanent overseas location in San Francisco in 2024, global expansion is advancing. The Shibuya facility serves as a core location in this international expansion, delivering Japanese anime culture to the world.
Contribution to Inbound Tourism
For international tourists, Tokyo Anime Center is an important spot to experience Japanese pop culture. Positioned in Shibuya, an international tourist destination, it welcomes visits from diverse groups beyond anime fans to those interested in Japanese culture.
Collaboration with DNP | Fusion of Technology and Content
Through joint operation with Dai Nippon Printing (DNP), Tokyo Anime Center provides unique experience value through fusion of advanced technology and content.
Utilization of Printing Technology
DNP’s advanced printing technology enables high-quality reproduction of original artwork and setting documents for use in exhibitions and merchandise production. Printing meticulous about color reproduction accuracy and fine details enables bringing original artwork charm to more people without loss.
Implementation of Digital Technology
Leveraging DNP’s digital technology and media production expertise, exhibition presentations utilizing AR/VR displays, digital signage, and interactive content are realized.
Content Business Development
Coordination with DNP’s content distribution platform enables content deployment spanning real and virtual. Continuing exhibition experiences online or purchasing digital content as physical merchandise provides seamless fan experiences.
Information to Know Before Visiting
Crowding Status and Visit Timing
Tokyo Anime Center in DNP PLAZA SHIBUYA’s crowding varies significantly depending on planned exhibition content and dates.
Crowded Periods:
- When popular work exhibitions are held
- Weekends and holidays
- Extended vacation periods such as summer, winter, and spring breaks
- Final weeks and final days of exhibitions
Relatively Uncrowded Periods:
- Weekday mornings right after opening (11:00-12:00)
- Weekday evenings (18:00 onward)
- Early periods of exhibition runs
For those wishing to view exhibitions leisurely, weekday visits are recommended.
Ticket Purchase Methods
Exhibition tickets can be purchased through the following methods:
Same-Day Tickets: Purchasable at facility reception (possibility of admission restrictions during crowding)
Advance Tickets: Available through online ticket sites (eliminates sell-out concerns and smooths entry)
Special Benefit Tickets: Tickets with special benefits such as limited merchandise bundled offers are sometimes sold
Advance ticket purchase is recommended for popular exhibitions.
In-Facility Rules and Etiquette
Observe the following rules to maintain a comfortable viewing environment:
- Contact with display objects is prohibited
- Photography permitted in designated areas only
- Eating and drinking in designated areas only
- Keep voice levels controlled
- Remember considerate behavior toward other visitors
Combination with Surrounding Facilities
Multiple fashion, miscellaneous goods, and food establishments are housed within Shibuya Modi. Shopping and dining can be enjoyed alongside Tokyo Anime Center visits.
Additionally, numerous commercial facilities including Shibuya Hikarie, Shibuya Parco, and Shibuya 109 are in the area, offering all-day enjoyment. With anime and manga-related shops and cafes scattered throughout, visiting alongside sacred site pilgrimages is recommended.
Latest Information Acquisition Methods
Latest information about Tokyo Anime Center in DNP PLAZA SHIBUYA can be obtained through the following methods:
Official Website
The official site (https://tokyoanimecenter.jp/) is regularly updated with information on current and planned exhibitions, events, and business hour changes. Always check before visiting.
Official SNS
Official SNS accounts on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and other platforms share exhibition views, new product information, and event announcements in real time. Following enables acquiring the latest information quickly.
Email Newsletter
Through newsletter registration available on the official site, advance exhibition information and ticket priority sale announcements are distributed.
Japan Animation Association Information
The official website of the operating entity, Japan Animation Association (https://aja.gr.jp/), also publishes information regarding Tokyo Anime Center.
Conclusion | Ever-Evolving Anime Culture Dissemination Hub
Tokyo Anime Center in DNP PLAZA SHIBUYA transcends a simple exhibition facility to provide innovative anime experiences through fusion of real and virtual. Having relocated from Akihabara and Ichigaya to Shibuya, it currently functions as an important hub transmitting Japanese anime culture globally from the center of an international city.
With fulfilling planned exhibitions, a store stocked with original goods, creator-fan interaction events, and its role as a sacred site pilgrimage hub, this facility possesses multifaceted appeal making it indispensable for anime fans.
Additionally, through human resource development and global expansion, it significantly contributes to the Japanese anime industry overall, playing an important role in creating anime culture’s future.
For anime enthusiasts, those interested in Japanese pop culture, and those seeking creative experiences, Tokyo Anime Center in DNP PLAZA SHIBUYA is a must-visit spot. When visiting Shibuya, please stop by. The latest animation experience awaits you.
