MAID CAFES

The hundreds of girls dressed as maids, handing out pamphlets and luring you to come into their cafes may come as a surprise for first timers. Akihabara is arguably the center for maid cafes in Tokyo and takes up much of the otaku culture that revolves around the area. Guests are served by “kawaii" waitresses dressed up as maids. You can enjoy drinks and foods while they accompany you with kawaii dances, songs and performances that the maids will put on for entertainment. Depending on the menu selection, often times guests are asked to join the performances with the maid to help make your drink or food taste better and take commemorative pictures with the maid. If you’re looking for the bizarre and unique side of Japan and want a fun little treat, ask a maid on the streets of Akihabara to show you to their store!

Photo credit: JW Magazine

Location: Around Akihabara Station

Hours: Typically from around 11:00am - 7pm ish.

Website: N/A

How to get there: Akihabara Station is on the JR Lines Keihin Tohoku, Yamanote and Chuo-Sobu Lines. The Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line also runs through it.