#Japan #Chiyoda #AKIHABARA #Section L #Retro Gamer

A New Gaming Experience Awaits in Akihabara

On February 1, 2026, a new accommodation experience will emerge in the heart of Akihabara with the opening of Section L Akihabara. This innovative project marks Section L's first venture into Chiyoda Ward, transforming a newly built residential complex into a long-stay apartment hotel. The design theme, coined “Retro Gamer,” is set to combine the essence of Japanese gaming culture with modern hospitality, aiming to turn the act of staying at the hotel into an immersive gaming adventure.

The Concept Behind Section L Akihabara

The “Retro Gamer” design concept is deeply rooted in the nostalgic gaming culture that Akihabara is renowned for. This iconic district has long been a hub for tech enthusiasts and otaku culture, attracting visitors from around the globe. The hotel seeks to create a space where guests can not only reside but also engage with the spirit of retro gaming. Each corner is thoughtfully designed to evoke a sense of nostalgia, making it a space where the experience of staying expands into playful memories.

Section L Akihabara reflects the evolving demands of travelers, especially with the recent increase in long-term visitors from abroad. Surveys conducted by Japan's tourism authority indicate a growing preference among visitors for accommodations such as apartment hotels that offer amenities like kitchens and laundry facilities. Guests can enjoy comfortable living space in a true home-away-from-home experience, catering to stays of five nights or more, which is the typical duration for many visitors.

Luxury Meets Retro in Design

Entering the hotel, visitors will be welcomed by a lobby that embodies a retro game atmosphere, creating an environment that feels like entering a beloved video game world. The design integrates classic gaming elements to give guests the sensation of being players in an interactive experience right from check-in.

The lobby features nostalgic gaming consoles such as Famicom, encouraging guests to connect and play together, thus transforming their stay into a memorable adventure. This communal experience fosters interaction among guests, enhancing their time at the hotel.

Inviting Art Collaborations

Collaboration with artists is a key feature of Section L Akihabara. The hotel showcases the artwork of Fatbeard, a pixel artist from Hong Kong, whose creations blend nostalgic video game elements with scenes of Japan’s natural landscapes. He has produced special pieces for the hotel’s grand opening, capturing the vibrant atmosphere of Akihabara through his distinctive pixel art style.

Fatbeard has crafted a series of three artworks, including one highlighting a cyberpunk scene and two focused on retro gaming themes. These pieces are designed not merely as decor but as an integral part of the guest experience, showcasing the rich culture and identity of Akihabara.

A Rich Cultural Experience

Section L Akihabara is dedicated to expressing how art and location intertwine to create a memorable stay. It aims to immerse guests in the cultural fabric of the area while providing unique hotel services. Future plans include fostering an even greater sense of community where visitors can engage with local culture, enhancing their travel experience.

Property Details

Location: 4-11-3 Sotokanda, Chiyoda, Tokyo
Total Rooms: 22
Nearest Station: Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, Suehirocho Station
Reservation Start Date: January 29, 2026
Website: Section L

The establishment of Section L Akihabara symbolizes an exciting shift in hospitality focused on creating enriching and personalized experiences for guests. Since its inception in 2020, Section L has embraced the autonomy to convert various properties into Long Stay residences while maintaining a commitment to quality and service.