Anime & Pop Culture
Destinations in Japan
Your journey to the Holy Land of Anime, Manga, and Gaming.
Japan is the dream destination for fans of pop culture. It is the birthplace of anime, manga, and video games, offering an unparalleled experience where fantasy meets reality.
In this 2026 guide, discover real-world Seichi Junrei (Holy Pilgrimage) sites, world-class theme parks like Super Nintendo World and Ghibli Park, and the bustling otaku districts of Akihabara and Ikebukuro.
Start exploring by region, category, or your favorite anime franchise below!
Explore by Region
Discover top IP destinations across Japan
Tokyo
Akihabara, Shibuya, Ghibli Museum
Kyoto
Nintendo HQ, KyoAni, Traditional Sites
Osaka
USJ, Super Nintendo World, Den Den Town
Aichi
Ghibli Park, Nagoya Cosplay Summit
Hokkaido
Sapporo Snow Fest, Golden Kamuy
Gifu
Your Name, Hyouka, Historic Villages
Key Locations
Must-visit IP landmarks, from electric towns to sacred shrines.
Explore by Category
Find destinations tailored to your interests: anime, gaming, history, and more.
Anime & Otaku Capitals
Dive into the beating heart of anime culture. From the neon lights of Akihabara to the doujinshi treasures of Ikebukuro and Nakano.
Key Regions & Hubs
Legendary Ghibli & Studio Tours
Visit the whimsical worlds of Studio Ghibli and other iconic animation studios that have defined generations.
Key Regions & Hubs
Theme Parks & Immersive Worlds
Experience your favorite IPs in real life, from Super Nintendo World to Tokyo Disney Resort and Nijigen no Mori.
Key Regions & Hubs
Gaming & Retro Arcades
The birthplace of Mario, Sonic, and Pac-Man. Explore multi-story arcades, retro game shops, and esports hubs.
Key Regions & Hubs
Comiket & Major Events
Join the world’s largest fan gatherings. From Comiket’s massive doujinshi fair to AnimeJapan and Tokyo Game Show.
Key Regions & Hubs
Explore by Franchises
Iconic Japan IP locations: Seichi Junrei, dedicated shops, and theme parks.
Your Name
Dive into Your Name's seichi junrei with Tokyo's urban vibes and Gifu's rural charm. Visit the iconic Suga Shrine stairs in Yotsuya, where the protagonists finally meet, or explore the Hida-Furukawa Station in Gifu that inspired the countryside scenes. The 'Lake Itomori' views can be glimpsed at Lake Suwa in Nagano.
Suzume
Embark on a cross-country journey chasing the 'doors' from Kyushu to Tohoku. Highlights include the Bungo-Mori Roundhouse in Oita (inspired the opening ruins), the ferry from Yawatahama to Kobe, and the scenic coastal roads of Ehime. Experience the mix of abandoned beauty and vibrant landscapes.
Weathering With You
Explore the rain-soaked streets of Tokyo. Key spots include the Yoyogi Kaikan (now demolished, but the vibe remains), the Koenji Hikawa Shrine (the only weather shrine in Japan), and the observation deck at Roppongi Hills. Discover the hidden 'sunshine' spots in the metropolis.
Slam Dunk
The legendary Kamakurakōkō-Mae Station crossing is a must-visit for fans worldwide. Overlooking the Shonan coast with Enoshima in the distance, this spot captures the opening scene's nostalgia. Explore the nearby Enoshima beaches and the nostalgic Enoden train line.
Lucky Star
The origin of modern anime pilgrimage (Seichi Junrei). Washinomiya Shrine in Kuki City embraces fans with open arms, featuring anime-themed ema (prayer plaques) and festivals. Stroll through the suburban streets of Kasukabe/Kuki that framed Konata's daily life.
Anohana
Relive the emotional summer in Chichibu. Cross the Old Chichibu Bridge, visit the Jouarin Temple, and find the 'Secret Base' shelter. The town fully supports fans with maps, stamps rallies, and themed events capturing the bittersweet nostalgia of the series.
Demon Slayer
Step into the Taisho era. Ashikaga Flower Park's wisteria illuminations mimic Mt. Fujikasane. Visit the Kamado Shrine in Fukuoka (the protagonist's namesake) or the split rock 'Ittoseki' in Nara. Asakusa's historic streets also offer a glimpse into the bustling city scenes.
Laid-Back Camp
Experience the ultimate outdoor pilgrimage in Yamanashi and Shizuoka. Camp at Lake Motosu (Koan Camping Ground) for the view of Mt. Fuji on the ¥1000 bill. Visit Minobu for the school and delicious Minobu Manju. It's a relaxing tour of Japan's best nature spots.
Spirited Away
Immerse yourself in the bathhouse mystique. Dogo Onsen in Matsuyama and Sekizenkan in Gunma are key architectural inspirations. Wander the nostalgic streets of Jiufen (Taiwan) or Shibu Onsen (Nagano) to feel the lantern-lit atmosphere of the spirit realm.
Jujutsu Kaisen
Walk the sites of the Shibuya Incident and Harajuku intros. See the Takeshita Street entrance, the Shibuya Scramble Crossing, and the Hikarie building. Explore Sendai (Itadori's hometown) or the shrines that inspired the Jujutsu High atmosphere.
Attack on Titan
Visit Hita City in Oita, Hajime Isayama's hometown. Stand before the bronze statues of Eren, Mikasa, and Armin looking up at the Oyama Dam (Wall Maria). Explore the Attack on Titan in Hita Museum and enjoy local goods in this dedicated sanctuary.
Oshi no Ko
Trace the entertainment world in Tokyo (Shibuya, Meguro) and the mythical roots in Takachiho, Miyazaki. Visit the Akihabara theater sites or the serene Amanoiwato Shrine in Takachiho, linked to the mythology of Amaterasu and the story's themes.
Dandadan
Hunt for the occult in real Japan. Explore the retro streets of Kawagoe (Saitama), the spooky tunnels, and the vibrant shrines featured in the show. Visit Ikaho Onsen in Gunma for the hot spring arc vibes and alien encounters (figuratively!).
Hyouka
A classic mystery tour in Takayama, Gifu. Visit the Hida High School exterior, the Miyagawa morning market, and the Bagpipe cafe (renamed in anime). The town retains a timeless, traditional atmosphere perfect for the Classic Literature Club's adventures.
Love Live!
The idol journey spans Tokyo and Numazu. Visit Kanda Myojin Shrine (Akihabara) where μ's trained, the stairs nearby, and Honoka's sweet shop (Takemura). For Sunshine!!, head to Numazu (Shizuoka) to see the beach, port, and Uranohoshi Girls' High School area.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Japan Anime Pilgrimage & Pop Culture Travel