Japan offers a multitude of places where fans of anime can completely immerse themselves in the culture. From shopping for anime merchandise to exploring towns that capture the essence of the anime world, these dream destinations are scattered across the country.
Iconic locations which no fan should miss include Tokyo’s Akihabara and Ikebukuro, as well as Nipponbashi in Osaka. Additionally, many locations featured in anime and films can be visited, allowing fans to step into the scenes of their favorite works.
This article highlights some of Japan’s top anime pilgrimage spots. If you’re looking to dive into the world of anime or visit the settings that inspired your favorite stories, this guide is for you.
1.Spots in Japan to Experience Anime Culture
「その蹄跡が伝説となる」
— 秋葉原ラジオ会館 (@akibaradikan) May 13, 2022
大人気アプリゲーム、うま娘プリティーダービーの新作看板が設置されました！臨場感あふれる今作！秋葉原へお越しの際は是非お立ち寄りください！#秋葉原ラジオ会館 #ラジカン #ラジオ会館 #ウマ娘 #その蹄跡が伝説となる pic.twitter.com/M0OICqVfDY
Japan offers several “anime streets” where fans can fully experience the culture, shop for anime merchandise, participate in events, and enjoy other anime-related activities. Below are three major anime hubs in Japan:
1-1.Akihabara
Tokyo’s Akihabara is one of the most popular anime hubs for both domestic and international fans. Akihabara was originally known as an electronics district, and then evolved into an anime and gaming paradise as electronics retail shifted to larger chain stores and online shopping.
Today, Akihabara is home to countless specialty stores offering anime goods, from figurines to cosplay costumes. Fans can also enjoy anime-themed nightclubs where anime songs set the tone for a fun-filled evening.
1-2.Ikebukuro
Ikebukuro in Tokyo is particularly popular with female anime fans. “Otome Road”, a key attraction, is a 200 meter stretch lined with shops catering to fans of female oriented anime and games.
Visitors can also enjoy collaboration cafes featuring characters from their favorite series. Nearby stores sell cosplay-related goods, allowing fans to dress up as their beloved characters and take commemorative photos.
1-3.Nipponbashi
夕方のオタロード、風情を感じます。#オタロード #でんでんタウン #オタロード pic.twitter.com/0lB81M478j
— 日本橋/でんでんタウン/オタロード公式 (@nippombashi_sns) January 25, 2022
For those exploring anime hubs outside Tokyo, Nipponbashi in Osaka is a must-visit. Akihabara is similar to Nipponbashi in that it is a vibrant anime and electronics district, and features a street known as “Ota Road.”
Here, you’ll find specialty shops selling figures, anime merchandise, and character apparel, as well as cafes themed around popular anime. with services like currency exchange machines and multilingual shopping maps available, this area also caters to international visitors.
2.Places in Japan to Explore Anime Settings
Many anime works are set in towns modeled after real life locations. Visiting these places allows fans to experience the atmosphere of their favorite series. Below are five noteworthy anime pilgrimage spots in Japan:
2-1.Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture
『君の名は。』、2018年1月3日の夜9時からテレビ朝日系24局ネットにて放送決定です！お楽しみに！ #君の名は。 pic.twitter.com/01DmFOVvJj
— 映画『君の名は。』 (@kiminona_movie) December 7, 2017
Takayama City in Gifu Prefecture is the setting for anime such as Your Name. and Hyouka.
The 2012 anime Hyouka features scenic depictions of Takayama, including its old streets and natural landscapes. Fans can visit real-life locations such as the high school and library modeled in the show.A dedicated pilgrimage map is available for exploring these spots.
Takayama is also featured in the hit movie “Your Name.”, with its Hie Shrine serving as the model for the fictional Miyamizu Shrine. Visitors can see the large torii gate that appears in the film.
2-2.Shibuya Ward, Tokyo
／
— 『呪術廻戦』アニメ公式 (@animejujutsu) October 30, 2024
2018年10月31日 「渋谷事変」
＼
本日10月31日は『#呪術廻戦』の
作中で「#渋谷事変」が起こった日
TVアニメ『呪術廻戦』
第2期「渋谷事変」は
各種配信PFにて好評配信中!!
そして、本日14:30からは
ABEMAにて第25～47話を一挙放送!!
▼ご視聴はこちらhttps://t.co/2VwoIuAO6t#JujutsuKaisen pic.twitter.com/lX4WRIMGws
Shibuya in Tokyo is the main setting for the anime Jujutsu Kaisen.
The series, which began as a manga in Weekly Shonen Jump and was adapted into an anime in 2020, is known for its “Shibuya Incident” arc. Shibuya Station, Shibuya Hikarie, and the Mark City passageway are all real life locations which feature in the show’s intense battles.
Fans can visit these sites to relive the anime scenes and immerse themselves in the story’s world.
2-3.Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture
Kamakura City is the iconic setting for the basketball anime Slam Dunk.
The show originally debuted in 1990 and remains a beloved classic. The Enoden Railway’s Kamakura-Kokomae Station, featured in the anime’s opening sequence, is especially popular for its breathtaking ocean views.
Other notable spots include the Sakano-shita section of Kamakura Seaside Park, where one of the characters, Rukawa, is seen cycling by the coastline.
2-4.Hakone Town, Kanagawa Prefecture
本日より上映中劇場(一部除く)にて公開中ポスター掲出中✨
— エヴァンゲリオン公式 (@evangelion_co) March 19, 2021
14人の登場人物が集合した本ビジュアルも、総作画監督・錦織敦史氏の描き下ろし！
ぜひ、劇場でご覧下さい。
また、公式サイトにて声の出演を更新しました。#シンエヴァ#シン・エヴァンゲリオン劇場版#さらば全てのエヴァンゲリオン pic.twitter.com/JL7bWUfNti
Hakone is famous as the inspiration for the Evangelion series’ “Third Tokyo City.”
Landmarks like Togendai Station, which inspired the NERV headquarters, and the former Sengokuhara Middle School, modeled as the school in the series, allow fans to step directly into the anime’s world. The Eva store in Hakone-Yumoto Station also offers exclusive merchandise.
2-5.Dogo Onsen Main Building
Dogo Onsen Main Building in Ehime Prefecture is one of the inspirations for the bathhouse in Studio Ghibli’s Spirited Away.
This historic hot spring, said to be over 3,000 years old, served as a model for the exterior of the bathhouse where Chihiro works in the film.Its ancient yet enchanting atmosphere is a must see for fans and history enthusiasts alike.
3. Tips for Enjoying Anime Pilgrimages
Before embarking on an anime pilgrimage, prepare by watching or rewatching the series to pinpoint key locations and memorable scenes. Check official websites or social media for event details and exclusive merchandise.
During your visit, take photos and videos to recreate iconic scenes, and imagine the emotions of the characters in those settings. Looking for differences between the anime and the real world locations may also provide a fresh perpective.
Conclusion
Japan is home to countless spots where you can dig deep into anime culture. From the bustling anime hubs of Akihabara, Ikebukuro, and Nipponbashi to the real-world settings of beloved anime like Your Name., Jujutsu Kaisen, and Spirited Away, there’s something for every fan to enjoy.
Visiting these places will give you a richer appreciation of the artistry and imagination behind your favorite anime, making it an unforgettable cultural experience.
*This article is based on information available as of November 2024.
