If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring the mysterious lands of Japan, you’ll likely have looked through the millions of things to do and been a little overwhelmed. Fortunately, we at pekopeko have got your back. We’ve distilled some of the best things to see and do on your next Japan trip.
🚄 Shinkansen to Osaka – Pokémon Center, Namba
When you arrive in Osaka, you will arrive at the ShinOsaka train station. You’ll need to take the 地下鉄 (Chikatetsu) or subway. You’ll need the red line and it will take you all the way Namba station. It’s about a 7 minute walk from the station (of you use exit 1).
Address: 〒556-0005 Osaka, Naniwa Ward, Nipponbashi, 3 Chome−１−１ Kuromon Ichiba Market | Opening Times: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Next stop, Osaka! Get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Pokémon. As you navigate the Pokémon Center, let’s infuse a bit of Kansai dialect into our phrases:
Osaka is known as Japan’s kitchen, with good reason! The food in Osaka is out of this world and there are more choices for food in Osaka than many other places.
🍜 Dotonburi – The heart of Japan’s Kitchen
Address: Dotonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0071, Japan
You’ll defiantly want to take a walk down the Dotonburi river. Here you can see the famous Glico man which fun fact was a Glico woman for a brief period in 2013 when Haruka Ayase Replaced the iconic sign for about 6 months, ride the Doki Ferris wheel and if you have the stomach to handle octopus, try a local Osaka favorite known as Takoyaki!
- “なんでやねん!” (Nande ya nen!):
- Translation: What’s going on? / What the heck!
- A playful Kansai phrase to use when discovering exciting Pokémon merchandise. Channel the local flavor as you marvel at the Pokémon wonders.
- “ええで！” (Ee de!):
- Translation: That’s good!
- Express your delight as you find the perfect Pikachu plushie. Kansai-style enthusiasm for your Pokémon haul!
🍵 Fushimi Inari Shrine – Anime Inspiration Amidst Torii Gates
Address: 68 Fukakusa Yabunouchicho, Fushimi Ward, Kyoto, 612-0882, Japan
Our first stop is the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine, where thousands of vermillion torii gates create a mesmerizing pathway. This sacred site has inspired numerous anime and films, making it a must-visit for anime pilgrims.
Phrases to Use:
- “これは何アニメのロケ地ですか?” (Kore wa nan anime no rokochi desu ka?):Translation: What anime was filmed here?
- Engage with fellow visitors to uncover anime connections and discover which series drew inspiration from Fushimi Inari Shrine.
- “美しい鳥居ですね” (Utsukushii torii desu ne):Translation: The torii gates are beautiful, aren’t they?
- Appreciate the beauty of the torii gates and strike up conversations with locals or fellow travelers.
🌸 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove – A Tranquil Anime Oasis
Address: Arashiyama, Nishikyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-0007, Japan
Stroll through the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a location that has found its way into the background of many anime scenes. The towering bamboo creates a serene atmosphere, offering a perfect blend of nature and anime inspiration.
Phrases to Use:
- “この竹の森は何アニメで使われましたか?” (Kono take no mori wa nan anime de tsukawaremashita ka?):Translation: Which anime used this bamboo forest?
- Inquire about the anime connections while wandering through the bamboo grove.
- “心落ち着く場所ですね” (Kokoro ochitsuku basho desu ne):Translation: It’s a calming place, isn’t it?
- Share your appreciation for the tranquil ambiance with fellow visitors.
🏰 Kyoto International Manga Museum – Manga Wonderland
Address: Karasuma-Oike, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-0846, Japan | Opening Times: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Closed Wednesdays)
Immerse yourself in the world of manga at the Kyoto International Manga Museum, a haven for manga lovers with its extensive collection of over 300,000 manga from around the world.
As you explore the beautiful city of Kyoto, here’s some useful phases that might help you on your journey.
- “日本の漫画はすごいですね” (Nihon no manga wa sugoi desu ne):Translation: Japanese manga is amazing, isn’t it?
- Express your awe at the vast collection and strike up conversations with fellow manga enthusiasts.
- “おすすめの漫画はありますか?” (Osusume no manga wa arimasu ka?):Translation: Do you have any recommended manga?
- Seek recommendations from staff or other visitors to discover hidden gems within the manga shelves.
Kyoto, with its blend of tradition and anime allure, offers a unique journey for anime enthusiasts. Soak in the magic of these anime-inspired locations, and may Kyoto’s cultural tapestry intertwine seamlessly with your anime adventure! 🍵🌸🏰✨
Hey Anime Explorers! 🌟 Ready to turn your Japan trip into a real-life anime saga? Join me as we dive into mastering local phrases while exploring iconic anime and manga locations. Get ready for a journey that blends language learning with otaku exploration!
🌸 Tokyo – Studio Ghibli Museum, Mitaka
Address: 1 Chome-1-83 Shimorenjaku, Mitaka, Tokyo 181-0013, Japan | Opening Times: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Closed on Tuesdays)
Welcome to the enchanting world of Studio Ghibli! As you step into the magical realm that inspired classics like “Spirited Away” and “My Neighbor Totoro,” let’s embrace some essential phrases:
- “素晴らしい!” (Subarashii):
- Translation: Wonderful!
- Use this phrase as you explore the museum. Whether it’s the breathtaking exhibits or charming Ghibli-themed souvenirs, everything is truly “subarashii.”
- “ありがとう、ジブリ” (Arigatou, Ghibli):
- Translation: Thank you, Ghibli.
- Express your gratitude for the creative wonders showcased at the museum. It’s a heartfelt nod to the anime magic surrounding you.
🌃 Train to Tokyo – Akihabara, Electric Town
When you arrive in Tokyo, you’ll arrive at Tokyo train station. Fortunately the Yamanote line (山手線) run straight from that station to Tokyo station to Akihabara!
Useful tip💡: The Icoca card can be purchased from any Tokyo main line station and is accepted at all Subway, JR and Yamanote lines. Although it may not be accepted on some private lines. It will save you time and money. Put about $100 USD on it and you’ll probably never need to top up.
Akihabara is a small place, but there’s so much to do there. Which is why we’re going to recommend a few more things to do.
🎮 Super Potato – Retro Gaming Haven
Address: 1 Chome-11-2 Sotokanda, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 101-0021, Japan | Opening Times: 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Dive into the world of classic gaming at Super Potato, an iconic gaming store where nostalgia takes the reins. From vintage consoles to rare game cartridges, it’s a haven for retro gaming enthusiasts.
🍱 Akihabara UDX – Gundam Café and AKB48 Theater
Address: 4 Chome-14-1 Sotokanda, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 101-0021, Japan | Opening Times Vary
Immerse yourself in the fusion of mecha and idol culture at Akihabara UDX. The Gundam Café and AKB48 Theater offer a unique blend of anime and entertainment.
Phrases to Use:
- “ガンダムカフェはどこですか?” (Gandamu kafe wa doko desu ka?):
- Translation: Where is the Gundam Café?
- Ask locals for directions as you seek the Gundam Café to experience the ultimate mecha-themed coffee break.
- “AKB48劇場のスケジュールはありますか?” (AKB48 Gekijou no sukejuru wa arimasu ka?):
- Translation: Do you have the schedule for AKB48 Theater?
- Inquire about AKB48 Theater showtimes for a chance to witness live idol performances.
🏎️ Akihabara Mario Kart Experience
Various Operators in Akihabara | Check Online for Availability
Transform Akihabara into your own Mario Kart circuit! Several operators in the area offer real-life Mario Kart experiences, allowing you to dress up as your favorite characters and zoom through the streets of Tokyo.
As you explore Akihabara’s electric wonders, remember, it’s not just about the places; it’s about living the anime experience at every turn. So, let the adventure continue, and may Akihabara ignite your anime spirit like never before! 🎮🍱🏎️✨
- “マリオカートツアーの予約はできますか?” (Mario kaato tsuaa no yoyaku wa dekimasu ka?):
- Translation: Can I make a reservation for the Mario Kart tour?
- Ensure your spot in this real-life Mario Kart adventure by using this handy phrase.
- “楽しみにしています!” (Tanoshimi ni shiteimasu!):
- Translation: I’m looking forward to it!
- Express your excitement to the operators as you gear up for an unforgettable Mario Kart journey.
- “レトロゲームを探しています” (Retro geemu o sagashiteimasu):
- Translation: I’m looking for retro games.
- Utter this phrase as you explore the aisles of Super Potato, hunting for gems from gaming’s golden era.
- “これは懐かしいですね!” (Kore wa natsukashii desu ne!):
- Translation: This brings back memories, doesn’t it?
- Share a moment of nostalgia with fellow gamers as you reminisce about classic titles.
🚅 Train to Nerima, Tokyo – Toei Animation Gallery
Address: 2 Chome-10-5 Toei Animation Co., Ltd., Nerima City, Tokyo 179-0074, Japan | Opening Times: 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM (Closed on Mondays)
Our final destination, the Toei Animation Gallery! Let’s wrap up our anime adventure with a couple of phrases:
- “すごいアニメですね!” (Sugoi anime desu ne!):
- Translation: This is an amazing anime, isn’t it?
- Commend the brilliance of classic anime productions as you explore the Toei Animation Gallery.
- “感動的です!” (Kandouteki desu!):
- Translation: It’s moving/touching!
- Capture the emotion of the anime exhibits with this phrase. It’s the perfect way to express the impact of these timeless creations.
Useful Tip💡: The bullet train (Shinkansen 新幹線) can be a bit expensive. Before you leave you might want to consider the JR Pass ranges from 50,000 yen (about $330 USD at the time of writing) and 100,000 Yen (about $630 USD). Prices are about 20-30% more for “Green class” or first class.
If you’re on the extreme end of the budget, you can take local trains and even night bussed between the major cities. Just be aware this can take all day and/or all night so you may have to factor that into your itinerary.
Our adventure may be coming to an end, but the memories and newfound phrases will last a lifetime. As you reflect on the magical journey through iconic anime locations, remember, language learning is all about embracing the anime spirit in every phrase! 🌸🗺️✨
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