Nakano provides a distinct experience for visitors interested in Tokyo’s specialist subcultures. Less central than Akihabara, this neighbourhood draws a more knowing crowd of enthusiasts. The district serves as a central point for otaku culture, a Japanese term for people with dedicated, often deep interests in areas like anime, manga and video games. Its primary attraction is Nakano Broadway, a multi-level mall from the 1960s that houses a dense collection of specialist shops, including the flagship Mandarake complex, selling vintage toys, comics and collectables. Access to the mall is through the Nakano Sun Mall, a covered shotengai (shopping arcade) filled with everyday shops and eateries. In recent years, Nakano Broadway has also developed a parallel reputation for its concentration of dealers in high-end vintage watches.

Built over the main mosque of the old Moslem city, this cathedral is an eclectic mix of styles, from Romanesque to Neoclassical. An extraordinary collection of Flemish tapestries from the metropolitan chapter are on display in the Tapestry Museum.

Built for the 2008 Games, the park is home to two of Beijing’s most recognisable landmarks: the National Stadium (the 'Bird’s Nest') and the National Aquatics Centre (the 'Water Cube'). Both are still in use for sports and events, and they light up at night, which is the best time to see them. The park itself is also one of the largest green spaces in the city, with long open avenues, lakes, and gardens — a good spot for a walk if you’re in the north of Beijing.