Top 10 Anime Locations in the World You Can Visit (2026)

Washinomiya Shrine became one of the most famous anime pilgrimage sites in Japan thanks to the anime Lucky Star. In the series, the shrine appears frequently as the location where the characters visit during festivals and New Year celebrations. After the anime aired, fans from across Japan and overseas began visiting the shrine to recreate scenes from the show. The location experienced a major tourism boom, with special anime-themed ema plaques and fan events held regularly. Today, Washinomiya Shrine is widely considered the birthplace of modern anime pilgrimage tourism.

Akihabara is often referred to as the global capital of anime and otaku culture. The district appears in many anime series, most famously in Steins;Gate, where the entire story revolves around the streets and electronics shops of Akihabara. Filled with anime stores, maid cafés, arcades, and electronics shops, Akihabara perfectly captures the atmosphere of modern anime fandom. Because of its strong connection to anime culture, it remains one of the most visited pop culture destinations in the world.

The small town of Hida-Furukawa gained international fame after appearing in the globally successful anime film Your Name. Many iconic scenes from the film were directly inspired by real locations in the town, including the Hida-Furukawa Station, canals, and quiet streets. Following the film's release, the town became one of Japan’s most popular anime pilgrimage destinations.

Kamakura is home to one of the most famous anime crossings in the world — the railroad crossing near Kamakurakōkō-Mae Station, featured in the opening of Slam Dunk. Fans often visit this exact location to recreate the iconic scene of the train passing by the ocean. The crossing has become one of the most photographed anime pilgrimage sites in Japan.

The town of Oarai became the real-world setting for the anime Girls und Panzer. Many landmarks in the town appear directly in the series. Local businesses embraced the anime, displaying character cutouts and themed decorations throughout the town. Oarai has since become a famous example of anime-driven regional tourism revival.

Shirakawa-go is a UNESCO World Heritage village famous for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses with steep thatched roofs. The village served as the inspiration for the eerie rural town in Higurashi When They Cry. Its isolated mountain setting and historic architecture create an atmosphere that perfectly matches the anime’s mysterious tone.

Hakone served as the inspiration for Tokyo-3, the futuristic city featured in Neon Genesis Evangelion. Mountains, lakes, and volcanic landscapes helped shape the dramatic battle scenes between Evangelions and Angels. The region now features Evangelion-themed tourism campaigns and attractions.

Numazu became the setting of the anime Love Live! Sunshine!!. The city's harbor, streets, and scenic coastlines appear throughout the series. Local businesses collaborated with the franchise, displaying character posters and themed merchandise across the city.

Ikebukuro plays a central role in the anime Durarara!!, where its busy streets and landmarks form the backdrop of supernatural events. The district is known for its vibrant nightlife, shopping areas, and anime culture hubs. Fans often visit specific locations that appear in the series, including Sunshine City and Ikebukuro Station.

Toyosato Elementary School served as the inspiration for the high school in the anime K-On!. After the anime became popular, fans began visiting the school building, which was later preserved as a fan pilgrimage site. The music room featured in the series is one of the most recognizable anime school locations.