Discover Japan's Golden Route: Anime Fans' Ultimate Guide to Tokyo, Kyoto & Osaka

Are you a big Japanese anime fan? Do you love Ghibli movies, Naruto, Demon Slayer (kimetsu no yaiba) and the ever cute Pokemon series, but have never visited Japan before? Read up on our golden route sample itinerary, tweaked to suit the interests of Japanese anime fans!

From left to right: Tokyo Tower, Ghibli Park, Mt Fuji and Hakone.

Day 1: Arrival to Tokyo, Haneda Airport

Welcome to Tokyo! The TokudAw Private Charter driver will be waiting for you when you arrive at the airport. Take this evening to rest at the hotel.

Day 2 : Tokyo sightseeing in the morning and transfer to Nagoya

Walk around the city's iconic neighborhoods like Shibuya and Asakusa and visit emblematic places such as Tokyo Station and the Imperial Palace.

You like anime?

Tokyo is the ultimate entertainment city when it comes to anime and manga. Lose yourself in Nakano Broadway (it's a large market where you can find great deals).

Be sure not to miss visiting Akihabara and Ikebukuro, the otaku districts. Experience the Pokémon Café (2000-4000 yen) to immerse yourself in the Japanese atmosphere.

If you are in Tokyo between August 11 and 12, 2024, you can attend the Summer Comiket (1000-5000 yen), an event highly popular among anime and manga fans.

For fans of Whisper of the Heart, click here : https://www.tsunagujapan.com/tokyo-tama-city-seiseki-sakuragaoka-whisper-of-the-heart/

Departure for Nagoya in the early afternoon.

Day 3 : Explore the Ghibli park

Enjoy Ghibli Park with the Mononoke Village and the Ghibli Grand Warehouse for 3000 yen for adults and 1500 yen for children. But be sure to book your spot in advance

Visit Atsuta Shrine

Atsuta Shrine (熱田神宮, Atsuta Jingū) is one of Shinto's most important shrines. It enshrines the Sun Goddess Amaterasu and stores the sacred sword Kusanagi, which is one of the three imperial regalia.

Day 4 : Nagoya to Hakone

You have arrived in Hakone, a perfect opportunity to visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum. Explore the fascinating Open-Air Sculpture Museum with interactive exhibits suitable for all ages. The entrance fee is 1600 yen for adults and free for children.

Visit Hakone Shrine and Lake Ashi:

Experience the serene atmosphere of the shrine and enjoy a cruise in a pirate ship on Lake Ashi, offering scenic views reminiscent of Ghibli landscapes. In the ship, 3D art and pirate objects, etc., can be enjoyed by children and adults alike.

Entrance is free for Hakone Shrine, and the boat fare is 1930 yen for adults and 940 yen for children.

Ghibli-style nature walk:

Stroll through the natural scenery of the Hakone region, discovering hidden spots that evoke the magical landscapes of Studio Ghibli films.

Day 5 : Mt. Fuji Sightseeing

Chureito Pagoda:

Capture postcard-perfect views of Mt. Fuji with the iconic pagoda in the foreground.

Day 6 : Mt. Fuji to Nakasendo

Enjoy a leisurely pace today.

From left to right: Aokigahara Forest at Mt Fuji area, Nakasendo and Nara Deer Park.

Day 7 : Nakasendo to Takayama

We have arrived in Nakasendo, visit the old Japanese towns of Magome and Tsumago.

Experience cloth dying and making a luncheon mat (experience cost included in accommodation) at Kiso Toy Museum.

Day 8 : Takayama to Shirakawago

Here we are in the heart of the old town of Takayama.

Wander through streets that feel like they're from a bygone era, with traditional merchant houses and craft shops.

Shirakawago:

Explore the unique thatched-roof village, reminiscent of scenes from Ghibli's "My Neighbour Totoro." For example Wada House, which offers an authentic and immersive experience, providing visitors with a sense of stepping into a Ghibli-inspired world (300 yen for adults and 150 yen for children).

Day 9 : Kanazawa

Here we are in Kanazawa, a long day awaits us.

Visit Kenrokuen Garden:

Stroll through one of Japan's most beautiful gardens, with landscapes that could inspire Ghibli animators (320 yen pour adults and 100 yen for children)

Lose yourself in the Nagamachi Samurai District:

Take a stroll through the Nagamachi district, known for its well-preserved samurai residences. While not anime-related, it offers a glimpse into historical Japan, and the architecture might evoke scenes from historical anime (free admission)

Visit Omicho market :

Engage in a culinary adventure at the market, exploring fresh produce and local delights.

For anime fans, visit Animate Kanazawa (a store specializing in manga merchandise).

If time permits, explore the Nomura-ke Samurai Residence (550 yen).

Dinner recommendation:

Coil: Choose your own sushi roll ingredients and then roll your own sushi roll, a funny experience for the whole Family.

Day 10 : Visit Otsu

Just 10 minutes from Kyoto, discover the city of Otsu.

Let’s start with the shopping street in Otsu:

Stroll along the Otsu Shopping Street near Otsu- Hotel Koo, where you can find local shops and eateries. For example,Nakagawa Seiseido Tea Store, Otsu has a deep history with tea. There are also two Pokémon lids which can be found nearby (14 Shimanoseki, Otsu, Shiga 520-0042)

Discover the fabulus Miidera Temple (Onjo-ji):

Explore Miidera, one of Japan's largest and oldest temples. The temple complex includes beautiful gardens and structures that provide a serene atmosphere (600 yen for adults and free admission for children).

Visit Biwako Otsukan:

Biwako Otsukan is a facility that introduces the nature, history, and culture of Lake Biwa. It could be an informative and interactive experience for the family (Adults 320 yen, children160 yen).

Let's end the day with Ishiyamadera Temple:

Explore the historic temple Ishiyamadera, it features a cave called Meoto-iwa, where visitors can explore a series of tunnels (300 yen for adults and 150 yen for children).

Day 11 : Kyoto Sightseeing

Here we are, the ancient capital of Japan.

This is the chance to see Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion) and the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.

Immerse in the beauty of the Golden Pavilion and the enchanting bamboo forest (Adults 500 yen, children 300 yen).

Discover the must-visit Kyoto International Manga Museum:

Visit the Kyoto International Manga Museum, a haven for manga enthusiasts of all ages (Adults 900 yen, Children 200 yen)
Explore Gion, Kyoto's historic district known for its traditional wooden machiya houses and teahouses.

For anime and manga fans, here is a list of stores:

· Manga BAR (8-12 Tanaka Shimoyanagicho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8204)

· Furuhon Ichiba - Kyoto Uzumasa

· Lashinbang Kyoto 2nd Store

· Animate Kyoto

· Mandarake Kyoto

· Melonbooks Kyoto

Day 12 : Nara Sightseeing

Let’s prepare to coexist with deer.

Welcome to Nara, a city where deer and humans live in harmony.

Visit Nara park:

Interact with deer in Nara Park, reminiscent of the magical creatures in Ghibli films.

Explore Todai-ji temple:

One of Japan's most famous and historically significant temples, Todai-ji houses a giant bronze Buddha statue. The temple complex is impressive and surrounded by beautiful gardens (Adults 600 yen, Children 300 yen).

Don't miss the Kasugayama Primeval Forest:

Located behind Kasuga Taisha Shrine, this forest is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy a walk along the forest trails, surrounded by ancient cedar trees and stone lanterns.

Day 13 : Osaka Sightseeing

Welcome to Osaka! It's a must-visit city on a trip to Japan.

Visit Osaka castle:

Explore the historical castle grounds and including the Hokoku Shrine near the Castle for a quieter and spiritual experience (Adults 600 yen, Children Free Admission).

Take a walk around Dotonbori, the liveliest district in Osaka.

Visit Shinsekai:

Explore the rejuvenated Shinsekai district with its retro charm and local izakayas and visit the Tsutenkaku Tower for a great view (Adults 900 yen, Children 400 yen)

For Naruto fans, head to Naruto Shinobinosato. Naruto Shinobinosato is located at Nijigen no Mori, a theme park that pays homage to Dragon Quest, Spy Family, and more!

From left to right: Spy Family, Naruto and Dragonquest installation at Nijigen no Mori. (Images from Nijigen no Mori official website).

Day 14 : Continue exploring Osaka

Head to the bustling Den Den Town in Osaka:

Immerse yourself in Osaka's lesser-known vibrant culture, featuring unique shops and themed attractions.

For animal lovers, have a delightful time with cats at the Mocha Shin-Osaka Cat Café:

While not Ghibli-themed, cat cafés often have a cozy and magical atmosphere. Interacting with cats in a relaxing environment can evoke a sense of comfort similar to the charm found in Ghibli movies (200 yen every 10 min).

Visit Kuromon Ichiba market:

While primarily a food market, Kuromon Ichiba's lively atmosphere, diverse stalls, and bustling crowds might remind you of the vibrant scenes found in Ghibli movies.

Visit Himeji Castle:

Marvel at the pristine beauty of Himeji Castle, often resembling a fairy-tale setting (Adults 1000 yen, Children 300 yen).

Enjoy Kobe Chinatown:

Nankinmachi (南京町) is a compact Chinatown in central Kobe and a center of the Chinese community in the Kansai Region. The area was developed by Chinese merchants who settled near Kobe Port after the port was opened to foreign trade in 1868. As the Chinatown developed, it became known as Nankinmachi after Nanjing, the former Chinese capital. They are packed with shops, restaurants and food stands that sell popular items such as steamed buns (manju), ramen, tapioca drinks and various other Chinese dishes, many of which have been Japanized to a certain degree.

Day 15 : Last day in Japan

Departure from Japan via Kansai International Airport (KIX).

It's time to say goodbye to Japan. We have reached the end of our journey. Thanks to this trip, you have been able to explore numerous historical sites, enjoy nature excursions, all while immersing yourself in the world of anime/manga, particularly Ghibli. There are obviously many more things to see, and we hope you enjoyed the journey.

Contact Us if you would like to curate your next anime-themed travel to Japan.