This was on our "must-do" list but we never made it there - you know how Tokyo trips go, always more to do than time to do it! But I'm including it because it sounds pretty unique for serious anime fans. The Suginami Animation Museum supposedly lets you get hands-on with anime creation - we're talking voice recording booths and DIY animation stations, which sounds way cooler than just looking at displays.

What caught our attention was the free admission (rare in Tokyo!) and the interactive elements. Plus, it's in the actual heart of Japan's anime industry, not just a tourist spot. That Inazuma Cafe surrounded by original mangaka artwork was another reason it made our list.

If any of you make it there, let me know if it's as cool as it sounds! It's always helpful to know if these off-the-beaten-path spots are worth squeezing into a packed Tokyo schedule.