by Miriam Bribiesca

What comes into your mind when you think of Japan? If anime or delicious food is not your first answer, it will be after reading this article. Now if anime WAS your first thought, then welcome fellow anime enthusiast! We’re about to embark on a journey through real-life anime locations, where fiction meets reality, and fantastical worlds come alive in the enchanting country of Japan.

It is only right that this adventure takes place in the iconic city of Tokyo. It is a bustling city that reflects the vibrancy and energy of many of our favorite anime shows. From the Hidden Leaf Village, that portrays Naruto’s home, to Castelia City, the metropolis seen in Pokémon, Tokyo has something in store for anyone!

First pay a visit to Tokyo Tower, whose design inspired the Hokage Rock in Naruto, and was often used as a meeting point for the Sailor Scouts and the setting for several of their battles. Take the elevator up to the observation deck for a stunning view of the city, and see if you can spot any incoming Negaverse attacks. If all clear, then make sure to get that selfie you’ve been waiting for. Once you’re back on the ground, why not grab a crepe from one of the many street vendors, just like the ones the Sailor Scouts often enjoy.

And if admiring one tower isn’t enough, visit the towering Tokyo Skytree, similar to the Battle Company building in Pokemon. AND we hear there is a delicious Skytree-exclusive matcha soft-serve that even Pikachu would fight for.

And now that you’re closeby, you might as well make a stop by Jump Shop in Tokyo Dome City. It’s a paradise for anime fans offering a wide range of merchandise, from manga volumes and DVDs to trading cards and clothing. After shopping, dine at Moomin Café for a cozy and super cute experience. Here, you can savor dishes like the Moomin House Pancake, reminiscent of the sweet treats seen in many of the series.

Now if you’re looking for something a little more out of the city, it’s about time we mention a location from one of the most famous anime shows of all time. You guessed it, it’s Dragon Ball Z! 
Explore Yokohama, Japan’s second-largest city that mirrors Dragon Ball Z’s West City. Explore the city’s mix of modern and traditional architecture and try some of Yokohama’s famous pork ramen at the Ramen Museum for a satisfying meal fit for a Saiyan. YUM!

And while in Yokohama, you must visit the Gundam Factory, where you can witness the giant, moving RX-78-2 Gundam! WHAT?! That’s right! This impressive robot stands as a testament to human engineering and creativity, much like the mobile suits of the series. Let’s go!

Another location you can add to your list especially if you’re a Sailor Moon Fan is Azabu Juban, the neighborhood where Usagi Tsukino and her friends reside in the anime. Feel the magic as you walk the streets where many of the series’ most significant moments took place. Nearby, you’ll find a number of eateries offering plates such as Taiyaki (Japanese fish-shaped cake), a favorite of Usagi’s!

And finally, head to the trendy Shibuya district, a bustling hub that resembles Battle City in YU Ghi Oh! And if there’s one thing you shouldnt miss it’s the iconic Shibuya Crossing. You know, the one where the world seems to stop to let a wave of people cross the street? Yes, that one! Now following your street crossing experience make some time and eat at a conveyor belt sushi restaurant. It’s the kind of novelty dining experience that any of your favorite anime characters will appreciate.

So much to see and so little time! It’s been exhilarating to walk in the footsteps of your favorite anime characters, now all you have to do is get out of your comfort zone and explore. Time to go change the the world, one trip at a time! And of course, don’t miss out on our flight deals that will have you counting down the days just like you did when waiting for a new episode to drop. Safe travels!