Japan’s rich history of anime is filled with iconic locations that bring stories to life. Many of the anime from the 1980s were set in real-world locations, offering fans the chance to visit the places that inspired their favorite shows. This itinerary will guide you through Japan as you explore the locations connected to some of the most beloved 1980s anime.
Day 1: Tokyo – the city of dreams and battles
Begin your journey in Tokyo, the backdrop for countless 1980s anime, particularly those centered around futuristic themes and city life.
- Shinjuku – City Hunter
City Hunter, one of the most famous action anime from the 1980s, is set in the busy streets of Shinjuku. Walk through the bustling nightlife district of Kabukicho, which mirrors the setting where the protagonist, Ryo Saeba, worked as a private detective.- What to see: Visit the skyscrapers and neon-lit streets of Shinjuku. For fans, just walking the streets offers a sense of being part of the anime’s dynamic and action-packed scenes.
- Harajuku – Kimagure Orange Road
This romantic comedy anime is set in various districts of Tokyo, particularly in the trendy and youthful area of Harajuku. Harajuku’s vibrant streets and unique fashion reflect the fun, colorful world of Kimagure Orange Road.- What to see: Visit Takeshita Street for a taste of the modern Harajuku fashion scene, and Omotesando for more upscale shops. Fans of the anime will enjoy spotting the locations where key scenes were set.
Day 2: Yokohama – patlabor and industrial wonder
Yokohama plays an important role in the Patlabor series, an anime about police mechs used to fight crime in a futuristic world. The city’s harbor and industrial areas provided the perfect backdrop for the show’s action scenes.
- Yokohama Bay and Minato Mirai
The futuristic waterfront area of Minato Mirai mirrors the industrial and high-tech atmosphere of Patlabor. Explore the iconic Yokohama Landmark Tower and the Cosmo Clock 21 Ferris wheel, offering stunning views of the city.- What to see: Walk along the bay and explore the futuristic architecture of Minato Mirai, imagining yourself in a world where mechs patrol the harbor.
Day 3: Hakone – peaceful mountains of neon genesis evangelion
Though Neon Genesis Evangelion officially aired in the 1990s, much of its imagery is influenced by 1980s anime and culture. The serene mountain town of Hakone served as the inspiration for Tokyo-3, the fortified city where much of the action in Evangelion takes place.
- Hakone Mountains and Lake Ashi
Hakone’s peaceful scenery contrasts sharply with the apocalyptic imagery of the series, but for fans, it’s easy to see how the quiet, mountainous surroundings could inspire the series’ creators.- What to see: Take a boat cruise on Lake Ashi and enjoy the view of Mount Fuji. Visit the Hakone Shrine and explore the hot springs. Fans of Evangelion will recognize the region’s landscape from key moments in the series.
Day 4: Nikkō – historical landscapes of mobile suit gundam
Nikkō is home to the ornate Toshogu Shrine and beautiful natural landscapes that have inspired anime for decades, including the mobile suit battles of Mobile Suit Gundam.
- Toshogu Shrine and Surrounding Mountains
The grandeur of the Toshogu Shrine and its intricate designs match the scale and drama of the Gundam series. Nikkō’s peaceful, natural surroundings also make it a perfect place to relax after days of exploring Tokyo’s bustling cityscapes.- What to see: Visit the Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and take in the surrounding forests and waterfalls. These tranquil locations stand in contrast to the dramatic space battles of the series but evoke a similar sense of awe.
Day 5: Kyoto – spiritual roots of nausicaä of the valley of the wind
Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital, is known for its temples and spiritual atmosphere. Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind, released in 1984 and directed by Hayao Miyazaki, draws inspiration from nature and the spiritual harmony between humanity and the environment, making Kyoto an ideal location to explore.
- Fushimi Inari Shrine and Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
Kyoto’s iconic shrines and natural beauty reflect the themes of environmentalism and spirituality in Nausicaä. The towering bamboo and winding paths of the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, in particular, capture the same sense of wonder and respect for nature.- What to see: Explore Fushimi Inari Shrine’s famous torii gates and take a peaceful walk through the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. These natural and spiritual landmarks evoke the reverence for nature seen in Nausicaä.
Day 6: Osaka – city life in bubblegum crisis
Osaka, Japan’s third-largest city, represents the vibrant cityscapes seen in cyberpunk classics like Bubblegum Crisis, a series set in a dystopian future.
- Namba and Dotonbori
Namba and Dotonbori, with their bright neon signs and busy streets, are reminiscent of the futuristic, cyberpunk world depicted in Bubblegum Crisis. This anime about a group of vigilantes fighting against rogue robots showcases a neon-lit urban environment that feels right at home in Osaka’s entertainment district.- What to see: Walk along the Dotonbori canal and take in the sights and sounds of Osaka’s nightlife. The flashing lights, towering billboards, and bustling crowds will transport you to a high-tech world akin to Bubblegum Crisis.
Day 7: Hokkaido – wilderness of silver fang
Conclude your journey with a visit to Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, which served as the setting for Silver Fang (known as Ginga: Nagareboshi Gin), an anime about wild dogs and wolves fighting for survival.
- Shiretoko National Park and Hokkaido’s Wilderness
Shiretoko National Park, with its rugged landscapes and dense forests, evokes the wild setting of Silver Fang. The vast wilderness of Hokkaido provides a stark contrast to the urban landscapes explored earlier in your trip, offering a peaceful end to your anime-inspired adventure.- What to see: Explore the unspoiled beauty of Shiretoko National Park, hike through the forests, and enjoy the wildlife. This natural setting is perfect for fans of Silver Fang, capturing the spirit of survival and freedom seen in the series.