Manga cafe

In 2014, ‘s first manga cafe, HB Manga Kissa, opened in . This was the first such establishment in Africa and the Arab world.

In Japan, where the world’s best animes often trace their roots back to the pages of manga, it’s no surprise that there are entire spaces dedicated to this form of storytelling. Manga cafes, also known as manga kissa (short for manga kissaten), are cozy, internet cafe-style establishments where visitors can relax and read from an extensive library of Japanese manga. With many open 24 hours a day, these spots are more than just reading rooms as they offer a full immersion into Japanese manga culture, complete with private booths, soft reclining chairs, unlimited drinks, and even meals and showers in some locations. Whether a long-time fan or just discovering the magic of Japanese comics, manga kissa offers the perfect spot to read, relax, and lose one’s self in another world.

The history of manga kissa dates back to the 1970s, with the first manga cafe said to have originated in Nagoya. In an effort to attract more customers, a local cafe owner began offering free manga alongside his regular menu. While this move successfully brought in more visitors, many customers would only order a single drink and stay for hours reading, which wasn’t great for business. Learning from this, other cafe owners refined the model by introducing time limits and charging by the hour, transforming these casual reading loungers into a more sustainable business concept. Over the years, the simple reading lounges evolved into expansive manga cafe chains, offering a wide range of services such as high-speed internet, all-night access, and even nap spots. Today, these multi-functional spaces are popular not only for reading manga but also as budget-friendly alternatives to hotels, combining the enjoyment of Japanese comics with practical amenities.

Stepping into a manga cafe is like entering a haven for relaxation and entertainment. Upon arrival, guests typically check in at the front desk, where they’re either issued a temporary pass or asked to register for a membership card. Once registered, guests can choose between two seating options: open seating, which is a shared space, or private booths, which are perfect for extended stays or those looking to relax or nap in private. After selecting a seat type and desired duration, the staff will provide a key or receipt with the booth number, and guests are free to explore the cafe’s amenities.

Tokyo is home to some of the best and most unique manga cafes in Japan, offering far more than just shelves of manga. One popular chain is Manboo! Manga Cafe, a well-known and affordable media cafe with branches scattered around Tokyo’s major train stations like Shibuya and Shinjuku. While offering the standard amenities like private rooms, free drinks, and internet access, some branches go the extra mile by delivering unexpected perks like nail care services for women looking for a little pampering while enjoying their favorite manga.