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2016 was the year when virtual reality devices and games really hit the big time, with a slew of VR-related events, businesses, games and movies springing up in Tokyo and elsewhere. By putting on one of those futuristic-looking head-mounted displays (HMDs), you can now visit ancient Egypt, travel through space or do the para-para at a virtual idol's concert without leaving your couch.

But as getting your own Oculus Rift, HTC Vive or PlayStation VR still means making a rather considerable investment, you might want to try before you buy. So we've put together a quick list of nine Tokyo spots where you can experience a virtual world without having to shell out the big bucks – just note that most of them require visitors to have at least some Japanese language ability.