(VOVWORLD) - There are many reasons to attract tourists to Japan, from its unique blend of ancient traditions and futuristic modernity to its stunning natural scenery, world-renowned cuisine, rich culture, exceptional safety, cleanliness, and legendary hospitality. But recently, a growing number of visitors, especially anime and manga fans, have been traveling to Japan to visit the real-life locations that inspired their favorite stories. They come to savor the atmosphere, recreate beloved scenes, and relive emotional moments. This week’s Culture Rendezvous takes you on a journey through some of Japan’s most iconic anime pilgrimage destinations.
 Sekizenkan in Gunma Prefecture is a long-established inn with over 300 years of history. (Photo: Makoto Maruyama) |
One of the most popular stops on the anime pilgrimage trail is an old onsen town in Gunma Prefecture, which inspired the bathhouse featured in the animated film “Spirited Away”. The story follows a young girl who struggles to save her parents after they are transformed into animals in a mysterious world. The traditional wooden building and the red bridge nearby vividly recall the magical world depicted in the film.
The Japanese term “Seichi Junrei”, literally meaning “sacred-site pilgrimage”, refers to visiting real locations portrayed in anime or manga. Fans, often called “pilgrims”, immerse themselves in the atmosphere and recreating scenes they love.
Nestled at the foot of the Hakone Mountains, Hakone Yumoto in western Kanagawa Prefecture has been a popular tourist destination before it became a key setting for the hugely influential anime “Neon Genesis Evangelion”. The series depicts humanity’s struggle for survival against mysterious alien forces.
The official Evangelion store in Hakone Yumoto sells exclusive merchandise available only at this location, making it a powerful draw for anime pilgrims.
 One of the numerous signs of the important presence Love Live! Sunshine!! has in Numazu. (Photo: grape Japan) |
Another major destination for anime fans is the port city of Numazu in eastern Shizuoka Prefecture, the setting for “Love Live! Sunshine!!”. Not only are increasing numbers of fans visiting the city, but many have recently chosen to move there and make it their home.
The anime centers on nine high-school girls who form an idol group in an effort to save their community from decline following plans to close their school. A local ryokan, or traditional Japanese inn, served as the model for the main character’s home, while a nearby beach is where the girls share their worries and dreams. The anime portrays the area with remarkable accuracy and detail, allowing visitors to feel as though they have stepped directly into the story.
 All around central Numazu, you can observe how individual shops have chosen to indicate their engagement with the series through various displays. |
Oyano Kaito, a native of Numazu City, said, “It's rather unique, the way these young people are starting to move here.”
Another native natives of Numazu City, Moroto Naoto, has this to say, “The anime may be their initial motivation for coming to live here, but I'm sure that as they get to know Numazu, they'll fall in love with our city.”
Recognizing this growing trend, Numazu City has collaborated with the anime’s producers. With imagery from “Love Live! Sunshine!!” displayed throughout the city, Numazu sometimes feels like a living anime set. For some fans, their love for the series has even inspired them to settle there permanently.
For Shotaro, it was his passion for “Love Live! Sunshine!!” that brought him to Numazu. He was deeply inspired by how the characters worked together to revive their hometown.
“By coming to this sacred place, I wished to seize something like views we may be able to reach after a long search for light. This is a place I could do that,” said Shotaro.
Shotaro was warmly welcomed by local residents. Today, Shotaro works for Numazu City, helping promote the community and hosting seminars for people considering a move there.
“I feel like I'm now living the life I saw in the anime ‘Love Live! Sunshine!!’. This is what I feel more and more strongly since moving to this sacred place,” Shotaro noted.
Numazu has become a typical example of how anime can revitalize local economies. Through merchandise, anime-themed tourism, intellectual property, and community projects, anime has become a powerful export and a major driver of global revenue.
From films and games to themed attractions and regional revitalization, Japan’s government is increasingly focusing on expanding its soft power and growing the content market significantly by 2033.
It’s fair to say that many people around the world fall in love with Japan long before they ever visit. Surprisingly, their first emotional connection isn’t travel, food, or history—it’s anime. A childhood series, an unforgettable soundtrack, or a character who offered comfort during adolescence becomes a doorway into the country. For some, that connection runs so deep that they choose to move to the real-life settings of their favorite anime, becoming part of the community and truly living their anime dream.