Suginami Ward in western Tokyo has the highest concentration of anime production studios in Japan — over 200 animation-related companies are based here, making it the true industrial heart of Japanese anime. The Suginami Animation Museum (杉並アニメーションミュージアム) was established by the ward in 2005 to celebrate and document this heritage, offering free admission to all visitors.
The Museum
The museum covers the history of Japanese animation from its earliest postwar productions through contemporary digital production. Detailed exhibits explain the production pipeline — from script and storyboard through key animation, in-between frames, colouring, and final compositing. The displays are thorough and accessible for visitors with no technical background in animation.
Voice Acting Studio
One of the museum’s most popular features is a small recording studio where visitors can try dubbing their voices over anime scenes — experiencing firsthand the work of voice actors (seiyuu). The experience is available in timed sessions and is particularly popular with families and dedicated fans.
Suginami Ward
Walking the streets of Suginami — particularly around Ogikubo and Koenji stations — occasionally reveals production studio buildings behind ordinary residential facades. Ogikubo has a concentration of vintage toy and manga shops along its shopping streets that reflect the neighbourhood’s creative character.
Access
The museum is a 10-minute walk from Ogikubo station on the JR Chuo Line or Marunouchi Line. From Shinjuku, the journey takes about 15 minutes. Admission is free and no advance booking is required.
Best Time to Visit
Weekday visits are quieter. The museum is entirely indoor and suitable for any weather. Combining with Koenji’s vintage shops and independent music scene or Ogikubo’s antique markets makes for a full west Tokyo day.
