Special Feature

Exploring Akihabara,
Japan’s Electronic Market

It all started out after the war with shops and stalls selling radio and electric appliance components. Over the years, Akihabara evolved into a market for electronic goods, computers and other modern lifestyle products. Today, it is also a mecca for fans of pop icons like manga, animé and video games.

Baolimo Lombo works at LaOX Duty Free Akihabara, a store where eligible overseas customers can shop tax-free. He was born in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and serves customers in Swahili, Japanese, French and English. (Photo: Onishi Mitsugu)