Akihabara, known for its electronic shops, has gained recognition as the center of Japan’s otaku (diehard fan) culture with many shops devoted to anime and manga. The crowds reminded me of Times Square and the selection of anime was equally overwhelming to Lucas as were the number of young men crowded around every console, figure, cashier stand.  After fighting through the crowds and lines we made our way north to neighboring Ueno. A little bit more local charm which I enjoy.  Gacha machines are prevalent throughout Seoul and Tokyo. Toy vending machines offering a variety of characters, themes and items, for roughly $2-3 kids and adults alike can get a pretty well-made item. We must have seen over 1,000 Gacha machines throughout our travels but the excitement in our kids never waned.