A Guide to Exploring Iconic Locations Across Japan
Anime fans, imagine stepping into the world of your favorite series, where the lines between fiction and reality blur. This is the magic of an anime pilgrimage—visiting real-life locations that inspired or appeared in anime. In this special feature, we’ll introduce you to anime pilgrimage spots across Japan and provide all the information you need to embark on your journey.
The Appeal of Anime Pilgrimage
An anime pilgrimage is more than just a trip; it’s a chance to connect deeply with the stories and characters you love. By visiting the locations depicted in anime, you can experience the world your favorite characters inhabit. There’s something truly special about seeing a place in real life that you’ve only seen on screen, whether it’s a bustling cityscape or a quiet rural town.
For example, Makoto Shinkai’s Your Name (Kimi no Na wa) has drawn fans to locations in both Tokyo and Hida City. Pilgrims to these sites often find a deeper connection to the film, and sometimes even meet fellow fans on the same journey.
Regional Pilgrimage Guides
Kanto Region
Shinjuku Your Name
The area around Shinjuku Station is featured prominently in Your Name. Key sites like Suga Shrine and Yotsuya Station bring the movie’s scenes to life.
Kamakura: Slam Dunk
The iconic opening scene of Slam Dunk takes place near Kamakura High School Station along the Shonan coast. Fans often visit this station to capture the exact angle featured in the anime.
Kansai Region
- Osaka: Detective Conan
Osaka appears frequently in Detective Conan, with iconic locations like Tsutenkaku Tower and Dotonbori Canal serving as backdrops for the mystery series. - Kyoto: The Eccentric Family (Uchoten Kazoku)
Set in Kyoto, The Eccentric Family brings the city’s unique culture to life. Locations such as the Kamo River and Shimogamo Shrine offer a deep dive into the series’ setting.
Kyushu Region
- Kumamoto: Natsume’s Book of Friends (Natsume Yuujinchou)
The lush, rural landscapes of Kumamoto Prefecture are beautifully captured in Natsume’s Book of Friends. Fans visiting this area can experience the warm, nostalgic feel of the series firsthand.
Spotlight on Popular Anime Pilgrimage Sites
Your Name – Hida City and Tokyo
The stunning landscapes of Your Name are based on real places. In Hida City, you can visit locations like the Hida Great Limestone Cave and the quaint townscapes that inspired the movie. In Tokyo, exploring Shinjuku and Yotsuya will bring key scenes from the film to life.
Love Live! – Akihabara and Numazu
Akihabara is a must-visit for any Love Live! fan. This anime hotspot is filled with spots where the Love Live! idols roamed. Meanwhile, fans of Love Live! Sunshine!! flock to Numazu, the town where the anime is set, to see locations featured in the series.
Demon Slayer – Fukuoka’s Kamado Shrine and Asakusa, Tokyo
For fans of Demon Slayer, Kamado Shrine in Fukuoka, which shares its name with the protagonist, Tanjiro Kamado, is a significant pilgrimage site. Asakusa in Tokyo, another key location in the series, offers a chance to walk through the same streets depicted in the anime.
How to Enjoy Your Anime Pilgrimage
Maximize your anime pilgrimage with these tips:
- Do Your Research
Before setting out, make sure to research the locations, including access details and opening hours. This will help you plan a smooth and enjoyable trip. - Compare the Anime with Reality
Bring along screenshots from the anime and compare them with the real-life locations. Try to capture the same angles in your photos for a perfect match. - Respect Local Culture and Customs
Remember that these locations are often part of everyday life for local residents. Be respectful of the surroundings and follow local etiquette.
Pilgrimage Maps and Recommended Routes
To make your pilgrimage as efficient as possible, we recommend following specific routes. For example, a Your Name pilgrimage in Tokyo might start at Shinjuku Station, followed by visits to Suga Shrine and Yotsuya Station—all in a single day.
An interactive map with detailed pilgrimage routes is in the works, allowing you to easily navigate your journey and discover nearby attractions.
Fan Stories: Pilgrimage Experiences
We’ll also be sharing stories from fans who have embarked on their own anime pilgrimages. One fan, for instance, visited Numazu, the setting for Love Live! Sunshine!!, and found the local community to be incredibly welcoming, which made the experience even more memorable. We’re also planning a campaign where readers can submit their own pilgrimage photos to be featured in this special section.
Anime Event Information
In addition to your pilgrimage, why not participate in anime-related events along the way? We’ll keep you updated on special exhibitions, fan gatherings, and collaboration cafes that can enhance your trip.
This “Anime Pilgrimage” feature is designed to help anime fans explore Japan and experience the worlds of their favorite series in real life. We hope it inspires you to plan your own pilgrimage and discover the magic of these iconic locations.
