There's no stopping our city guide series: after an excursion to Osaka and a criss-cross ride along the Seibu lines, our next target is Ikebukuro, one of the capital's biggest and busiest hubs. Long derided as the decidedly un-trendy 'gateway to Saitama', Ikebukuro is also known as a fierce ramen battleground – as we have detailed previously. On shelf from March 1, '50 things to do in Ikebukuro' will show you another side of the neighbourhood, highlighting everything from major attractions to tranquil art galleries and unique bars, plus one very visit-worthy aquarium.
Penguin Bar is where to drink beer with the waddling fellows
Check out this heaven for unique but cheap sunglasses
Also nicknamed 'Akihabara for women,' Ikebukuro has quietly become a subcultural hub. Our guide covers a plentiful selection of certifiably geeky venues – why not try a butler café or pick up a full cosplay outfit?
Be a lady at Tokyo's oldest 'butler café'
Achieve cosplay perfection with a vivid wig
Just like all the other guide maps in our long-running series, this one is available for free at distribution points across the city, from the Shibuya Station Tourist Information Centre to bars, shops and major hotels, while you can of course also pick up your copy at our very own Time Out Café & Diner in Ebisu, or order directly from our Map Store (subject to availability).