For all the weebs and otakus out there, I get it! As an avid anime fan, Japan is always my first choice when I have the opportunity to travel. In addition to buying merchandise or attending anime events, you can actually visit the real-life locations used as scenes for anime productions. While they are many, this guide covers some of my favorites!
If you like Japan, you might find some hidden gems, and if you like anime too, this is the sign to embark on an anime pilgrimage!
Enter the Japan pre-trip checklist
With the Japanese border recently opened to Singapore visitors, here are some tips to make your life easier ✈️:
1) Register in advance on Japan Web , you can skip the long lines at the airport just like you skipped the opening of the anime. 2) Get a digital vaccination certificate through Notarise
Digital vaccination certificate obtained through Notarise – at least 3 doses of vaccines to skip the PCR test 3) Bring enough masks – most attractions and buildings require you to wear one 4) Buy travel insurance that includes Covid-19 coverage — optional but recommended
1) Suga Shrine Staircase (Tokyo) – Your Name
Suga Shrine Staircase (Tokyo) – A guide to real-life anime locations
“Aren’t we …… I’ve seen you somewhere before?” — No, unlike you, I exist in the real world.
The famous blockbuster film “Your Name” directed by Makoto Shinkai ends with a touching and heartfelt ending scene where the protagonists Taki and Mitsuba meet on the legendary staircase leading to Shikotani Suga Shrine after a meteor event.
Get off at Yotsuya station and walk through the quiet neighborhood to be greeted by this nostalgic scene. Although no Taki/Mitsuhas are to be found ?, visitors are often found taking pictures of this iconic spot to recreate the scene.
How to get there: Get off at Yotsuya 3-chome Station
Address: Japan, 160-0018 Tokyo, Shinjuku City, Sugacho, 5
2）Lake Motosu (in the mountains)-Yuru Camp
Lake Motosu (Yuru Camp) – Mount Fuji
Photo source (real image): animetourism88.com
If there’s one image that represents the heartwarming anime Yuru Camp, it’s this photo of Lake Motosu! In a nutshell, Yuru Camp is about the main character Rin and her friends who travel through various campgrounds in Japan.
The most important thing to do when visiting Mt. Fuji is to visit the Fuji Five Lakes, as they offer some of the best views and photo spots of Mt. Did you know that the back of 1000 yen is Lake Motosu ??
Kamakurakoko-Mae Station (Kanagawa) – Slam Dunk
Enoden Railroad Crossing Kanagawa – Slam Dunk
Photo credit: zekkeijapan.com
How I wish I could have this view on my way to work ?. This railroad crossing at Kamakura Kokoma Station, with its vast ocean view and blue sky, was used as a model for the cheerful opening theme of Dunk Master, a classic sports anime that needs no introduction.
