When Art Meets Reality: Here are 10 Anime Locations in real life
While the saying goes “Life imitates art far more than art imitates life,” creators often find themselves drawing inspiration from real-world locations, especially when crafting stories set in tangible settings. It’s a common occurrence to witness anime and manga settings spring from the beauty of the world or even to witness fan-favorite series giving birth to attractions paying tribute. This presents an exciting opportunity for enthusiasts of anime and manga.
For those charting a course to Japan or those simply intrigued by the origins of their beloved series, a wealth of picturesque locations awaits exploration. These art-inspired gems not only offer visual delights but also boast an array of attractions that promise distinctive experiences for those who venture forth.
10. Yakushima Island – Princess Mononoke
For anyone acquainted with Studio Ghibli’s masterpiece Princess Mononoke, the forest stands as a central character in its own right. Known as the Cedar Forest or The Forest of the Forest Spirit in the movie, it finds its real-world counterpart in the mystical Yakushima. Precisely, the ethereal woods of the Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine served as the wellspring of inspiration.
This vibrant haven invites visitors to wander along a network of hiking trails, unveiling breathtaking mossy landscapes, ancient cedar giants, and the towering Jomon Sugi—the oldest cedar, aged between 2000 and 7000 years. With its lush abundance and ancient splendor, it’s no wonder that this realm of ancient woods served as the muse behind the home of mythical forest spirits.
9. Dogo Onsen – Spirited Away
Amidst Japan’s treasure trove of ancient hot springs, Dogo Onsen stands as a revered testament to time. It’s no surprise that this time-honored haven has been whispered to be the source of inspiration for the enchanting bathhouse featured in Miyazaki’s Spirited Away. That very bathhouse, Aburaya, managed by the witch Yubaba and frequented by ethereal beings seeking solace, graces many iconic moments of the film.
Situated in Matsuyama, the largest city on Shikoku Island, this bathhouse boasts a striking facade adorned with intricate symbols. Its rich dark wood exterior transports visitors into a realm akin to the fantastical. A journey to this destination not only unveils the baths themselves, but also offers the allure of temples, shrines, a bustling shopping arcade, and the serene Dogo Park—a haven for cherry blossom sightings in the right season.
8. Tomonoura – Ponyo
Nestled at the southern tip of Fukuyama City in Hiroshima Prefecture, Tomonoura stands as a picturesque port town believed to have inspired the harbor locale in Miyazaki’s Ponyo.
Amidst the idyllic vistas of Tomonoura, visitors are treated to stunning sea views from Fukuzenji Temple, a beloved café serving delectable treats, and a chance to savor local flavors with Homeishu liqueur. The town’s antique lighthouse, a sentinel since 1859, adds to the allure, creating an enchanting tapestry that mirrors the magic of Ponyo’s world.
7.Yufuin Floral Village – Kiki's Delivery Service
In a delightful twist, it’s not a case of life inspiring art, but rather the enchantment of animated art breathing life into reality. Nestled within Japan’s Oita Prefecture, Yufuin Floral Village presents a scene straight out of Kiki’s Delivery Service. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in a true-to-life Kiki’s Bakery.
Complete with a welcoming Jiji plush at the entrance, this quaint bakery offers a delightful array of treats, all inspired by the beloved film. Yufuin Floral Village exudes a tranquil ambiance reminiscent of a European countryside, and the presence of an actual bakery paying homage to the animated tale perfectly encapsulates the charm of this adorable haven.
6. Lake Ashi – Neon Genesis Evangelion
Nestled in the heart of Kanagawa Prefecture’s Hakone, Lake Ashi unfurls like a canvas of deep blue beauty, gracing the landscape with its ethereal presence. A haven where one can bask in breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, this pristine crater lake is a cherished gem.
The narrative threads of Neon Genesis Evangelion infuse a unique layer of intrigue to Lake Ashi’s allure. As the tale unfolds, audiences learn of the Japanese government’s pivotal decision, transforming Hakone into the new capital christened Tokyo-3.
A time-worn emblem of Hakone, Lake Ashi owes its origin to Mount Hakone’s ancient volcanic eruption, etching a history spanning millennia. Echoes of Evangelion intertwine with this natural wonder, capturing the essence of the series in a tangible manner. A store brimming with Evangelion collectibles and themed vending machines stand as tangible testaments for enthusiasts.
Beyond the anime tapestry, Lake Ashi extends an invitation for various experiences. The tranquility of boat sightseeing, the embrace of local hot springs, the embrace of traditional Japanese ryokan lodging—these treasures await, ensuring a journey that resonates with both nature’s grandeur and the allure of animated magic.
5. Ikebukuro – Durarara!!
Ikebukuro takes center stage in the anime Durarara!!, serving as the heart of the protagonists’ journey. But Ikebukuro is not just a backdrop; it’s a living canvas of the series’ essence. For travelers drawn by the allure of the anime, a treasure trove of familiar sites awaits exploration.
Sunshine 60 Street, East Ikebukuro Central Park, and Sunshine City emerge as vivid landmarks echoing the anime’s universe. But Ikebukuro is not just a tale of animation brought to life. It beckons with an array of diversions, ensuring an itinerary that extends beyond anime nostalgia. An aquarium, a tapestry of shops, inviting cafés and eateries, arcades brimming with excitement—each element intertwines to craft an unforgettable Ikebukuro experience.
4. Asakusa – Demon Slayer
In Demon Slayer, Asakusa becomes a stage where Nezuko and Tanjiro’s journey intertwines with the enigmatic Muzan Kibutsuji. Though the anime’s world unfolds in the past, Asakusa’s present-day charm still resonates with a sense of tradition.
Nestled in Tokyo, Asakusa holds a timeless allure that echoes the series. Tokyo’s oldest temple, Sensoji Temple, takes center stage, drawing countless admirers.
Beyond, the towering Tokyo Skytree and its bustling shops, along with the captivating aquarium, offer modern wonders. Asakusa’s spirit also lingers within temples like Asakusa Temple and the revered Kaminari Gate, while the Nakamise and neighboring shopping streets complete the journey, weaving the past into the present.
3. Stairs to Suga Shrine, Tokyo – Your Name
In Tokyo’s Shinjuku City, Suga Shrine awaits. It’s where Your Name’s enchantment comes alive. On its sacred grounds, a special staircase stands—a symbol known to those charmed by the movie.
Your Name’s magic goes beyond the screen. Other spots like the National Art Center and Yunika Vision in Shinjuku echo its charm.
But the bright red staircase steals the show. It’s where an emotional reunion happens—a moment etched in memory and pictures. As you climb, you’ll reach Suga Shrine. It’s not just about reliving a movie scene—it’s about feeling the calm of the shrine in the heart of the city.
2. Kamakura Kokomae Station – Slam Dunk
Remember Slam Dunk’s opening scene? That’s right, the one with Hanamichi Sakuragi at a train crossing facing the sea. You can find that crossing near Kamakura Kokomae Station in Kamakura City, Kanagawa prefecture. The view? The stunning Sanami Bay sparkling under the sun.
Kamakura isn’t just about anime connections. It’s a coastal getaway just an hour from Tokyo, offering temples, shrines, trails, beaches, and islands to explore. It’s a whole package of coastal charm waiting to be discovered.
1. Omi Shrine – Chihayafuru
n Otsu City, Shiga prefecture, Omi Shrine stands tall. It’s not just a place of worship—it’s where Chihayafuru’s karuta story blooms. Fans will recognize it from the series.
You can visit Omi Shrine and admire its bright red structures. But it’s not just about looks. The shrine hosts cool stuff too. There’s a water clock festival in June, a nod to Japan’s first water clock. A clock museum shows the history of clocks in Japan. Plus, there are lots of festivals and events to enjoy.
Whether you’re reliving a favorite scene or exploring spots that sparked creators’ imaginations, there’s so much to see. These special places make the adventure even more exciting for fans.
