15 Famous Anime Locations You Can Visit in Japan

(Step into the worlds of your favorite anime!)

Ever dreamed of stepping straight into an anime scene? Japan makes that possible! 

From neon-lit cityscapes to tranquil countryside villages, countless locations have inspired some of the most beloved anime settings. 

This journey, known as seichi junrei (anime pilgrimage), has become a must-do experience for fans who want to see where their favorite stories come to life.

With the rise of anime tourism, cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Gifu have embraced their animated fame, welcoming visitors eager to explore real-world locations from Your Name, Spirited Away, and Demon Slayer. 

Whether you’re craving the electric buzz of Akihabara, the nostalgia of a traditional onsen, or the eerie quiet of a horror anime town, these 15 famous anime locations in Japan will make you feel like you’ve stepped right into your favorite series.

1. Yokohama: A Blend of Mystery and Melancholy

(Featured in: Bungou Stray Dogs, Yokohama Kaidashi Kikou)

Yokohama is like a well-worn novel, full of history, yet alive with modern vibrancy. 

This port city, just a short train ride from Tokyo, serves as the real-world setting for Bungou Stray Dogs, where literary-inspired detectives navigate through its moody streets. 

The anime captures Yokohama’s industrial charm with scenes set near the Red Brick Warehouse, a stunning relic of the Meiji era turned into a cultural hotspot. 

Meanwhile, Harbor View Park offers panoramic cityscape views, perfect for those melancholic anime-esque moments of introspection.

On a completely different note, Yokohama Kaidashi Kikou paints the city with a gentle, post-apocalyptic brush. 

This lesser-known gem envisions a flooded future where an android runs a quiet café, creating an atmosphere of nostalgia and solitude. If you love slow-burn, contemplative storytelling, this anime will speak to your soul.

Why visit? Yokohama beautifully balances nostalgia and modernity, making it a perfect stop for anime fans who appreciate both action and introspection. Plus, Chinatown, one of Japan’s largest, offers some of the best dim sum you’ll ever have!

2. Tokyo: The Beating Heart of Anime Culture

(Featured in: Your Name, Steins;Gate, Durarara!!, One Punch Man, Tokyo Ghoul, Tokyo Revengers)

Tokyo is anime paradise, plain and simple. Whether you’re into romance, cyberpunk, supernatural action, or psychological thrillers, this city has been the backdrop for countless iconic anime.

Top Anime Spots in Tokyo:

• Shibuya Crossing (Your Name, Tokyo Revengers), One of the most famous intersections in the world, this place is pure organized chaos. Makoto Shinkai’s breathtaking animation made it look even more magical in Your Name.
• Akihabara (Steins;Gate), The mecca of otaku culture. Electronics, arcades, maid cafés, and endless anime merch await. Steins;Gate’s sci-fi madness unfolds here, blending real-world conspiracy theories with mind-bending time travel.
• Ikebukuro (Durarara!!), If you love urban legends, gang rivalries, and headless bikers (yes, really), this area is a must-visit.
• Setagaya (One Punch Man), Ever wanted to visit Saitama’s hilariously mundane apartment? It’s tucked away in this quiet residential district.

Why visit? Tokyo is the undisputed king of anime locations. Whether you want to sip coffee in a Your Name-inspired café, geek out over merchandise in Akihabara, or hunt down the eerie streets from Tokyo Ghoul, this city delivers.

3. Shirakawa-go: The Idyllic Yet Unsettling Village

(Featured in: Higurashi no Naku Koro ni)

At first glance, Shirakawa-go looks straight out of a fairy tale. Nestled in the mountains of Gifu Prefecture, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its gassho-style farmhouses, which look like something from a traditional Japanese painting. 

But anime fans know better, this picturesque village was the eerie inspiration for Hinamizawa, the setting of Higurashi no Naku Koro ni.

For those unfamiliar, Higurashi is a psychological horror anime that lures you in with its slice-of-life charm before unleashing mind-bending terror. 

The contrast between the sleepy village setting and the gruesome events that unfold makes it one of the most disturbing anime out there.

Why visit? If you love horror anime, visiting Shirakawa-go at night adds an extra layer of suspense. But even if horror isn’t your thing, this village is worth seeing for its incredible winter scenery, it looks magical under a blanket of snow.

4. Awaji Island: The Ultimate Anime Theme Park

(Featured in: Naruto & Boruto, Godzilla, Crayon Shin-chan, Dragon Quest)

Imagine stepping into the world of your favorite anime, not just seeing locations that inspired scenes, but actually living them. That’s exactly what Nijigen no Mori on Awaji Island offers. 

This anime theme park is every fan’s dream come true, featuring life-sized recreations of legendary anime settings.

Top Attractions at Nijigen no Mori:

• Naruto & Boruto’s Hidden Leaf Village: Walk through the Hokage Rock, take ninja training courses, and even grab a bowl of ramen from Ichiraku.
• Godzilla Experience: Yes, there’s a life-sized Godzilla here, and you can zipline straight into its mouth!
• Crayon Shin-chan Adventure Park: Fun obstacle courses inspired by the mischievous Shin-chan.
• Dragon Quest Real RPG: Battle monsters, explore Onokogard Town, and live out your JRPG fantasies.

Why visit? Nijigen no Mori is a bucket-list destination for anime lovers. Whether you want to unleash your inner ninja, face Godzilla, or step into a fantasy RPG, this is anime tourism on steroids.

5. Asakusa: Where Tradition Meets the Supernatural

(Featured in: Demon Slayer, Sarazanmai)

Asakusa is a time capsule of old Tokyo, a district where ancient temples, bustling markets, and Edo-era charm blend seamlessly with the city’s modern pulse. For anime fans, it’s an iconic backdrop, especially for those who love Demon Slayer.

A Demon’s First Encounter in Asakusa:

One of the most visually striking scenes in Demon Slayer unfolds in Taisho-era Asakusa, where Tanjiro first comes face-to-face with Muzan Kibutsuji. 

The contrast between the district’s glowing red lanterns and cobbled streets makes the encounter even more intense. 

Walking through Nakamise Street, lined with traditional souvenir shops, you can easily imagine yourself in Tanjiro’s world, minus the lurking demons (hopefully).

If you’re more into surrealism and quirky humor, Sarazanmai offers a completely different take on Asakusa, weaving kappa folklore with bizarre yet emotionally deep storytelling. 

Kappabashi Street, known for its kitchenware stores, becomes a symbolic battleground in the anime.

Why visit? Asakusa is a must-see for history lovers and anime fans alike. Plus, don’t forget to visit Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple, for a moment of peace before diving back into the city’s vibrant energy.

6. Matsuyama (Dogo Onsen), A Bathhouse Straight Out of Spirited Away

(Featured in: Spirited Away)

Dogo Onsen in Matsuyama is a living relic of Japan’s bathing culture, and if you’ve watched Spirited Away, you’ll immediately recognize its resemblance to Yubaba’s iconic bathhouse. 

This isn’t just coincidence, Dogo Onsen Honkan, with its multi-tiered wooden structure and intricate design, is believed to have inspired the magical bathhouse in the film.

Soaking in a Piece of History:

With over 1,000 years of history, Dogo Onsen is one of Japan’s oldest hot springs. 

Stepping inside feels like entering another world, the creaky wooden floors, steaming baths, and ornate architecture create an almost otherworldly experience. If spirits were to suddenly appear and invite you for tea, it wouldn’t feel out of place.

Why visit? Even if you’re not a fan of hot springs, just seeing Dogo Onsen’s majestic façade is worth the trip. But if you do take a dip, prepare for an experience that feels straight out of a Studio Ghibli fantasy.

7. Gifu Prefecture (Hida City), A Real-Life Your Name Setting

(Featured in: Your Name)

Few anime have captured Japan’s rural beauty as breathtakingly as Your Name. While Tokyo plays a significant role in the film, it’s the serene countryside of Hida City in Gifu Prefecture that gives Mitsuha’s story its soul.

Retracing Mitsuha’s Footsteps:

The quiet charm of Hida Furukawa Station, with its wooden interiors and nostalgic atmosphere, instantly transports you into the film’s world. 

Fans often visit to snap photos at the exact train station where Taki and Mitsuha’s fates intertwine. Even the red bridge over the Miyagawa River, seen in various scenes, looks just as magical in real life.

Beyond anime connections, Gifu Prefecture is a hidden gem for travelers who love nature, history, and small-town charm. 

Strolling through Hida Furukawa’s old streets, lined with traditional sake breweries, is an experience that truly slows time down, much like the movie itself.

Why visit? Whether you’re here for the anime pilgrimage or simply to soak in the stunning scenery, Hida City is an unmissable slice of Japan’s countryside.

8. Chichibu (Saitama Prefecture), The Heartbreaking Beauty of Anohana

(Featured in: Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day)

Anohana is the kind of anime that sneaks up on you, tugs at your heartstrings, and leaves you crying at 2 AM. 

This deeply emotional story about childhood friends reconnecting after a tragic loss takes place in Chichibu, a quiet city in Saitama Prefecture.

A Town Wrapped in Nostalgia:

Fans who visit Chichibu often take a sentimental walk across Chichibu Bridge, where many key scenes unfold. 

Menma’s favorite hideout, the temple staircase, is also a must-see, standing there, you can almost hear the echoes of laughter and bittersweet memories.

Even for those unfamiliar with the anime, Chichibu is worth visiting for its natural beauty, shrines, and peaceful countryside atmosphere. 

But for fans of Anohana, this place carries an extra layer of meaning, it’s like stepping into a memory, both beautiful and bittersweet.

Why visit? Chichibu captures the feeling of lost childhood friendships and long-forgotten summers. Whether you’re here to relive Anohana or simply enjoy a peaceful getaway, it’s a town that lingers in your heart long after you leave.

9. Omi Shrine: Where Poetry Meets Competition

(Featured in: Chihayafuru)

Nestled in Shiga Prefecture, Omi Shrine isn’t just a place of worship, it’s the Mecca of competitive karuta, the traditional Japanese card game that blends poetry, reflexes, and sheer mental endurance. 

If you’ve seen Chihayafuru, you’ll recognize it as the sacred battleground where the National Karuta Championship takes place.

A Shrine That Honors Both Gods and Poets:

Dedicated to Emperor Tenji, who played a key role in shaping early Japanese poetry, Omi Shrine has a unique spiritual and cultural aura. 

Walking through its grand torii gates, you can almost hear the echoes of the fast-paced card battles from the anime, where players snatch cards in a blur of motion, guided by instinct and memory.

For fans of Chihayafuru, visiting Omi Shrine feels like stepping onto hallowed ground. You might even catch a real-life karuta match in progress, as the sport has seen a surge in popularity thanks to the anime.

Why visit? Even if you’re not a karuta pro, Omi Shrine’s deep connection to literature and history makes it a fascinating stop. Plus, the surrounding area is stunning in autumn, when fiery red maple leaves frame the shrine’s classic architecture.

10. Lake Motosu: A Laid-Back Paradise With a View

(Featured in: Laid-Back Camp)

Imagine waking up to a postcard-perfect view of Mt. Fuji, with the crisp mountain air filling your lungs and a steaming cup of coffee warming your hands. 

That’s exactly the vibe you get at Lake Motosu, one of the Fuji Five Lakes and a camper’s paradise.

Anime-Worthy Scenery, Literally on Japan’s Currency:

Fans of Laid-Back Camp will instantly recognize this tranquil lakeside setting, where Rin Shima sets up camp in the first episode. 

The peacefulness of the lake, the mirror-like reflection of Fuji in the water, and the sheer simplicity of solo camping are what make this scene, and the anime, so special.

Fun fact: The iconic view of Mt. Fuji from Lake Motosu is featured on Japan’s 1,000-yen bill. That’s right, you can literally hold a piece of this landscape in your wallet!

Why visit? Whether you’re an anime fan, a nature lover, or just looking for a break from city life, Lake Motosu offers an unforgettable escape into Japan’s great outdoors. And if you want to go full Laid-Back Camp, grab some instant curry noodles and enjoy them under the stars.

11. Shodoshima Island: A Quiet Escape Into Rural Japan

(Featured in: Teasing Master Takagi-san)

Tucked away in Kagawa Prefecture, Shodoshima Island is the kind of place that feels like a gentle, sunlit memory, quiet streets, coastal breezes, and a pace of life so slow it’s almost meditative. 

Fans of Teasing Master Takagi-san will immediately recognize the scenic seaside setting, which is inspired by the real-life town of Tonosho on the island.

The Charm of a Small Town Romance:

Teasing Master Takagi-san is as wholesome as anime gets. It follows the daily interactions of Nishikata, a boy constantly outwitted by his crush, Takagi. 

The small-town aesthetic, serene coastal views, and old-school Japanese school buildings give the series a warm, nostalgic feel, almost like looking back at a childhood crush.

Shodoshima itself is famous for its olive groves, soy sauce breweries, and coastal hiking trails. If you want to experience a slice of slow, rural Japan far from the tourist crowds, this island is a hidden gem.

Why visit? Shodoshima is the perfect getaway for anyone craving peace, scenic beauty, and a touch of nostalgia. Rent a bicycle and explore at your own pace, you might even find yourself reminiscing about childhood crushes along the way.

12. Nerima City: The Birthplace of Japanese Anime

(Featured in: Nerima Daikon Brothers, Home to Toei Animation)

If Tokyo is the capital of anime, then Nerima City is its birthplace. This unassuming district is where Japan’s first-ever TV anime, Astro Boy, was produced in 1963, paving the way for the entire industry.

Where Anime Began:

Today, Nerima is home to many of Japan’s biggest animation studios, including Toei Animation, the legendary studio behind Dragon Ball, One Piece, and Sailor Moon. A visit here isn’t just a nostalgic trip down memory lane, it’s a deep dive into anime history.

Anime Landmarks in Nerima

• Oizumi Anime Gate: A small but meaningful tribute to anime’s roots, featuring statues of classic characters like Lum (Urusei Yatsura) and Joe Yabuki (Ashita no Joe).
• Toei Animation Museum: A must-visit for fans of Dragon Ball, Precure, and Saint Seiya, showcasing concept art, original sketches, and behind-the-scenes animation techniques.

Why visit? If you’ve ever wanted to see where some of the most legendary anime were born, Nerima is the place to be. It’s not as flashy as Akihabara, but for true anime history buffs, this district is sacred ground.

13. Hakone: Stepping Into the World of Evangelion

(Featured in: Neon Genesis Evangelion)

Hakone, a picturesque mountain town famous for its hot springs and breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, might not seem like a city-sized battle zone at first glance. 

But for Neon Genesis Evangelion fans, this quiet retreat holds a deeper, almost apocalyptic significance.

Tokyo-3 Exists, Sort Of

In Evangelion, the futuristic stronghold of Tokyo-3, where humanity fights against monstrous Angels, is based on real-life Hakone. 

The town’s mountainous landscapes, volcanic lakes, and sprawling vistas make it a natural fit for a city constantly bracing itself for world-ending attacks.

For die-hard fans, Hakone has fully embraced its Eva legacy with:

• Evangelion-themed hotels, where rooms are decorated with NERV insignia.
• Life-sized EVA Unit-01 statues, perfect for dramatic photo ops.
• Hot spring resorts featuring Evangelion-inspired baths, because nothing says “relaxation” like soaking after a day of existential dread.

Why visit? Whether you’re an Evangelion fan or just love scenic getaways with a pop culture twist, Hakone is a must-see. And if you happen to hear ominous sirens in the distance? Maybe don’t panic… or do.

14. Kuki: A Lucky Star Pilgrimage for Otaku Veterans

(Featured in: Lucky Star)

Tucked away in Saitama Prefecture, the unassuming city of Kuki is home to one of Japan’s most famous anime shrine pilgrimages, all thanks to Lucky Star, a beloved slice-of-life anime that defined the mid-2000s otaku era.

Washinomiya Shrine: The Holy Land of Lucky Star Fans

Washinomiya Shrine, one of Japan’s oldest Shinto shrines, became legendary when Lucky Star featured it as the workplace of the Hiiragi sisters. 

Since then, the shrine has become a pilgrimage site for anime fans, especially during New Year celebrations, when thousands of otaku flock here to pay their respects… and leave fan art-covered ema plaques.

If you visit, you’ll find:

• Wooden ema plaques covered in anime drawings, some of them incredibly detailed!
• Annual Lucky Star festivals, featuring cosplay, themed food stalls, and even official collaborations.
• Merch shops selling exclusive shrine-themed Lucky Star goods, because why not mix spirituality with fandom?

Why visit? If you love classic otaku culture, visiting Washinomiya Shrine feels like a trip back in time to the golden age of anime fandom. Even if you haven’t seen Lucky Star, the shrine’s unique blend of tradition and anime culture makes it worth the trip.

15. Takayama: A Historical Haven Straight Out of Hyouka

(Featured in: Hyouka)

If you’ve ever wanted to step into a beautifully preserved Edo-period town, Takayama in Gifu Prefecture is a dream come true. 

This city, with its wooden merchant houses, traditional sake breweries, and quiet alleyways, serves as the real-life inspiration for Kamiyama City in Hyouka.

Unraveling Mysteries in a Town Frozen in Time

While Hyouka might not be an action-packed anime, it excels at capturing the quiet beauty of everyday life, and Takayama embodies that spirit perfectly. Some must-visit spots for fans include:

• Hida Takayama Old Town, where the anime’s classic streetscapes come to life.
• Hie Shrine, which mirrors locations seen in key episodes.
• Seasonal festivals, where you can experience traditional Japan just like in the anime’s beautifully animated scenes.

Why visit? Takayama is a time machine into Japan’s past, making it perfect for history buffs, anime fans, and anyone who loves charming, small-town aesthetics.

An Anime Pilgrimage Worth Taking

Japan’s anime-inspired destinations are as diverse as the stories they bring to life. 

From the neon-lit streets of Tokyo to the quiet, nostalgic alleys of Takayama, each location offers a unique way to experience your favorite series beyond the screen.

Why should you consider an anime pilgrimage?

1. It deepens your connection to the anime you love, standing in the exact spot where a pivotal scene took place makes the story feel even more real.
2. It supports local communities, many small towns have seen an economic boost thanks to anime tourism.
3. It’s an adventure that blends pop culture with history and nature, a mix you won’t find anywhere else.

So, whether you’re dreaming of facing an EVA unit in Hakone, soaking in a Ghibli-esque hot spring, or walking the same streets as your favorite characters, Japan’s anime locations offer something unforgettable.

Where will your anime pilgrimage take you next?