【Detective Conan | Phantom of Baker Street】Big Ben (London) Sacred Site Pilgrimage Complete Guide
The theatrical version “Detective Conan: Phantom of Baker Street” is the 6th theatrical film released in 2002, depicting the world of “Cocoon,” a virtual reality game set in late 19th-century London. Among the impressively featured locations is “Big Ben,” a symbol of London.
This article provides detailed information for those planning a sacred site pilgrimage to Big Ben as it appears in the work, including directions to the site, photography spots, surrounding tourist information, and points to more deeply enjoy the work.
The Relationship Between “Phantom of Baker Street” and Big Ben
The Importance of Big Ben in the Work
In “Phantom of Baker Street,” Conan and the others enter a game world set in late 19th-century London and pursue the mystery of the Jack the Ripper incident. Big Ben appears multiple times in the background of the film and is depicted as an important structure symbolizing London as the stage.
Particularly impressive are scenes where Big Ben is viewed from along the Thames River and the sight of the clock tower standing exceptionally high amidst the cityscape of London. At the time of the work’s setting in 1888, Big Ben already existed as a London landmark.
Actual Big Ben and the Work’s Depiction
The Big Ben depicted in the theatrical version faithfully reproduces the actual structure. The beautiful decorations of the Gothic Revival style, the large clocks positioned on all four sides, and the imposing figure at 96 meters in height are expressed in fine detail even in the animation.
While the work is set in the late 19th century, the appearance of modern Big Ben remains essentially unchanged from that era, allowing visitors on a sacred site pilgrimage to fully feel the atmosphere of the work’s world.
Big Ben Basic Information
Official Name and History
The name “Big Ben” is actually a nickname, with the official name being “Elizabeth Tower.” It was renamed in 2012 to commemorate the 60th anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II’s accession to the throne.
Strictly speaking, the name “Big Ben” refers to the Great Bell inside the tower, but it is generally used as a term for the entire clock tower.
Construction began in 1843 and was completed in 1859. It was designed by Charles Barry and Augustus Pugin and was built as part of the Palace of Westminster (the British Houses of Parliament).
Architectural Features
- Height: 96 meters (316 feet)
- Style: Gothic Revival
- Clock face: 7 meters in diameter, positioned on four sides
- Bells: Five bells, including a 13.5-ton Great Bell
- Stairs: 334-step spiral staircase
The clock is extremely accurate, and the traditional method of adjusting one-second errors by placing a penny coin on the pendulum is still used today.
Current Situation and Visiting
Major restoration work was carried out from 2017 to 2022. The beautifully restored structure can now be seen.
Tower interior tours are only available to UK residents and require advance reservations. Unfortunately, overseas tourists cannot visit the interior, but photography of the exterior and views from the surrounding areas are freely available.
Sacred Site Pilgrimage Access Guide
How to Get to London
The following airlines operate direct flights from Japan to London:
- Japan Airlines (JAL): Narita/Haneda to London Heathrow Airport
- All Nippon Airways (ANA): Haneda to London Heathrow Airport
- British Airways: Narita/Haneda to London Heathrow Airport
Flight time is approximately 12-13 hours. For connecting flights, there are routes via the Middle East and various European cities.
From Heathrow Airport to Big Ben
From Heathrow Airport to Big Ben, you can access via the following methods:
Underground (Tube)
The most economical method:
- Piccadilly Line from Heathrow Airport to central London
- Change to the District or Circle Line at Green Park Station
- Get off at Westminster Station
Travel time: approximately 50-60 minutes
Fare: Around £6 off-peak (with Oyster Card)
Heathrow Express
The fastest method:
- Heathrow Express to Paddington Station (approximately 15 minutes)
- Underground Circle or District Line to Westminster Station
Travel time: approximately 30-40 minutes
Fare: £25 or more (discounts available with advance booking)
Taxi/Uber
Convenient for those with lots of luggage or traveling in groups:
Travel time: approximately 45-90 minutes (depending on traffic)
Fare: approximately £50-80
From Westminster Station to Big Ben
Westminster Station is the closest Underground station to Big Ben.
- Available lines: District, Circle, and Jubilee Lines
- Walking distance from station to Big Ben: 1-2 minutes
- Exit: Exit 1 (towards Bridge Street) is closest
Upon exiting the station, the magnificent sight of Big Ben and the Palace of Westminster spreads before your eyes. First-time visitors will be overwhelmed by its grandeur.
Best Photography Spots
The essence of a sacred site pilgrimage is taking photos at locations featured in the work. There are several excellent photography spots around Big Ben.
Westminster Bridge
Recommendation level: ★★★★★
The most popular spot for photographing Big Ben. From the bridge, you can beautifully capture Big Ben and the entire Palace of Westminster.
- Best position: Near the center of the bridge, on the south side of the pedestrian path
- Best time: Morning (with sun), dusk (golden hour)
- Crowds: Always crowded with tourists; early morning is relatively quiet
In the work, there are scenes viewing Big Ben across the Thames River, and the view from this bridge is very close to that image angle.
Parliament Square
Recommendation level: ★★★★☆
Located directly below Big Ben, you can take powerful photos here.
- Best position: Northeast corner of the square
- Best time: Afternoon (with sun)
- Features: Can be photographed together with Churchill statue and other historical monuments
From the square, you can photograph Big Ben from an angle looking upward, creating a photo that emphasizes its grandeur.
View from South Bank
Recommendation level: ★★★★☆
You can photograph Big Ben across the Thames from the south bank.
- Best position: Near Jubilee Gardens
- Best time: Dusk, nighttime (illuminated)
- Features: Can be photographed together with the London Eye
Although at some distance, the composition with the Thames River in the foreground creates a photo with a distinctly London atmosphere.
Victoria Tower Gardens
Recommendation level: ★★★☆☆
A hidden photography gem. With fewer tourists, you can photograph at leisure.
- Best position: North end of the gardens
- Best time: Morning
- Features: Can take photos with greenery in the foreground
Located south of the Palace of Westminster, you can photograph Big Ben from a slightly different angle.
Lambeth Bridge Distant View
Recommendation level: ★★★☆☆
You can capture Big Ben and the entire Palace of Westminster in a distant shot.
- Best position: Center of the bridge
- Best time: Afternoon, dusk
- Features: Wide-angle shooting capturing London’s skyline is possible
With fewer people, it’s an advantage for photography at your leisure.
Best Photography Timing
Charm by Time of Day
Early Morning (6:00-8:00)
- Advantages: Few tourists, soft morning light, quiet atmosphere
- Disadvantages: Some facilities not yet open
- Recommendation level: ★★★★★
For those wanting to photograph with few people, early morning is most recommended. In summer, sunrise is early, with brightness arriving from 5 AM.
Morning (8:00-12:00)
- Advantages: Big Ben in direct sunlight, stable weather
- Disadvantages: Gradually increasing crowds
- Recommendation level: ★★★★☆
Photography from Westminster Bridge is optimal in the morning. With the sun in the east, Big Ben’s front is beautifully illuminated.
Afternoon (12:00-17:00)
- Advantages: Lively atmosphere, surrounding facilities operating
- Disadvantages: Most crowded, backlit angles
- Recommendation level: ★★★☆☆
Photography from Parliament Square is suitable in the afternoon.
Magic Hour (around sunset)
- Advantages: Beautiful golden light, dramatic atmosphere
- Disadvantages: Limited shooting time, crowded
- Recommendation level: ★★★★★
The most beautiful photos can be taken during this time. With the sky tinged orange and pink, Big Ben’s silhouette is fantastical.
Night (after sunset until 22:00)
- Advantages: Beautifully illuminated, romantic atmosphere
- Disadvantages: Tripod necessary, security concerns
- Recommendation level: ★★★★☆
Big Ben is illuminated at night, presenting a completely different appearance from daytime. The reflection in the Thames River is beautiful, ideal for night photography.
Features by Season
Spring (March-May)
- Weather: Relatively stable, sunny days frequent
- Temperature: 8-15°C
- Daylight hours: Gradually increasing
- Recommendation point: Flowers begin to bloom, adding color to photos
Summer (June-August)
- Weather: Best weather season
- Temperature: 15-25°C
- Daylight hours: Still light until around 9 PM
- Recommendation point: Long hours of sightseeing possible, sunset photography time is later
Autumn (September-November)
- Weather: Somewhat unstable, more rain
- Temperature: 8-15°C
- Daylight hours: Gradually decreasing
- Recommendation point: Fewer tourists, calm atmosphere
Winter (December-February)
- Weather: Often cloudy or rainy
- Temperature: 2-8°C
- Daylight hours: Becomes dark around 4 PM
- Recommendation point: Christmas decorations, London winter atmosphere
Nearby “Phantom of Baker Street” Related Spots
221b Baker Street (Sherlock Holmes Museum)
The lodging place of Sherlock Holmes, an important stage in the work.
- Address: 221b Baker Street, London NW1 6XE
- Access: 2 minutes walk from Baker Street Station
- Hours: 9:30-18:00 (closed year-round)
- Admission: £16 (adults)
- Time required: 30-60 minutes
It is approximately 15 minutes by Underground from Big Ben. This is depicted in the work as the place where Conan and the others meet Holmes, making it an indispensable spot for a sacred site pilgrimage.
Tower of London
Although not directly featured in the work, it is a historic structure symbolizing 19th-century London.
- Access: 3 minutes walk from Tower Hill Station
- Hours: 9:00-17:30 (varies by season)
- Admission: £33.60 (adults, online booking)
- Time required: 2-3 hours
Approximately 10 minutes by Underground from Big Ben.
Tower Bridge
London’s representative bascule bridge where you can feel the late 19th-century atmosphere.
- Access: 5 minutes walk from Tower Hill Station
- Observation walkway admission: £11.40 (adults)
- Recommendation: Photography on the bridge is free
British Museum
The world’s largest museum where you can learn about 19th-century culture.
- Access: 7 minutes walk from Russell Square Station
- Admission: Free (special exhibitions are paid)
- Hours: 10:00-17:00 (until 20:30 on Fridays)
- Time required: 2-4 hours
Practical Sacred Site Pilgrimage Plans
Half-Day Course (4 hours)
9:00 Arrival at Westminster Station
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9:10 Photography at Westminster Bridge (30 minutes)
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9:40 Photography at Parliament Square (20 minutes)
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10:00 Visit Westminster Abbey (60 minutes)
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11:00 Move to South Bank, photograph from opposite bank (30 minutes)
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11:30 Explore around London Eye (30 minutes)
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12:00 Lunch at nearby café
Full-Day Course (8 hours)
9:00 Arrival at Westminster Station
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9:10 Big Ben area photography (60 minutes)
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10:10 Visit Westminster Abbey (90 minutes)
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11:40 Move to South Bank (60 minutes)
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12:40 Lunch (60 minutes)
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13:40 Move by Underground to Baker Street (20 minutes)
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14:00 Visit Sherlock Holmes Museum (90 minutes)
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15:30 Move by Underground to Tower Hill Station (30 minutes)
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16:00 Visit Tower of London and Tower Bridge (120 minutes)
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18:00 Return to Westminster, dusk photography (60 minutes)
2-Day Course
Day 1: Big Ben area + Baker Street area
Day 2: Tower of London and Tower Bridge + British Museum
Recommended for those wanting to explore each spot at leisure or for those particular about photography.
Sacred Site Pilgrimage Precautions and Etiquette
Photography Considerations
- Tripod use: Tripod use in public places is basically permitted, but be careful not to obstruct passage. Avoid use during crowded times.
- Flash photography: No problem outdoors, but prohibited in some indoor facilities such as museums.
- Drone photography: Drone flights in central London are strictly regulated. The Big Ben area is a no-fly zone.
- Commercial use: Individual use is fine, but commercial photography requires permission in some cases.
Security and Safety
- Baggage inspection: Security is strict around the Palace of Westminster. Avoid large bags and cooperate with inspections.
- Restricted areas: Always follow security personnel instructions. The Houses of Parliament area is particularly heavily guarded.
- Theft prevention: Always watch for pickpockets at tourist destinations. Keep valuables distributed and carry your bag in front.
- Night safety: For night photography, choose high-traffic areas and avoid traveling alone.
Manners and Etiquette
- Queue jumping: The culture of queuing is highly valued in Britain. Always maintain your place in line.
- Noise: Avoid loud conversation or noise. Act quietly especially in early morning or night hours.
- Trash: Always dispose of trash in designated places or take it with you.
- Consideration for other tourists: When photographing, do not occupy space for long periods where you interfere with others.
Useful Information
Transportation IC Card “Oyster Card”
For using London’s public transportation, an Oyster Card or contactless payment is convenient.
- Where to purchase: Underground stations, airports, some shops
- Deposit: £5 (refunded upon return)
- Advantages: Lower fares, convenient payment method
- Daily limit: £8.10 for Zones 1-2 (as of 2024)
Wi-Fi and Communication Environment
- Free Wi-Fi: Available in Underground stations, cafés, and fast-food restaurants
- SIM card: Available for purchase at airports or mobile shops in the city
- Pocket Wi-Fi: Renting and bringing from Japan is also convenient
Currency and Payment Methods
- Currency: Pound (£)
- Currency exchange: City exchange offices often have better rates than airports
- Cards: Credit and debit cards are accepted at almost all locations
- Tip: 10-15% is standard at restaurants (unnecessary if service charge is included)
Recommended Accommodation Areas
- Westminster area: Closest to Big Ben, but expensive accommodation
- South Bank: On the south bank of the Thames, convenient for sightseeing with many restaurants
- Victoria: Good transportation, relatively affordable
- Paddington: Good airport access, many hotel options
Recommended Nearby Restaurants and Cafés
The Red Lion
- Type: Traditional pub
- Location: 3 minutes walk from Big Ben
- Features: Historic pub visited by members of Parliament, fish and chips popular
- Budget: £15-25
The Cellarium Café & Terrace
- Type: Café
- Location: Inside Westminster Abbey
- Features: Historic converted basement, afternoon tea available
- Budget: £10-20
Pret A Manger
- Type: Casual café chain
- Location: Multiple locations near Westminster Station
- Features: Convenient and delicious sandwiches, coffee
- Budget: £5-10
Weather and Clothing
London is famous for changeable weather.
- Essential items: Folding umbrella, layered clothing
- Spring/Autumn: Light jacket, long sleeves
- Summer: T-shirt possible during day, bring jacket for evening cool
- Winter: Heavy coat, scarf, gloves
- Shoes: Comfortable sneakers or walking shoes
For Deeper Enjoyment of the Work
Scenes to Watch Beforehand
Rewatching these scenes from the work before a sacred site pilgrimage will enhance the experience at the actual location:
- Opening scene: London cityscape appears
- Entering the game world: Late 19th-century London depiction
- Scenes along the Thames: Big Ben appears in background
- Baker Street scenes: Meeting with Holmes
- Climax: London nightscape
Related Books and Materials
- “Detective Conan: Phantom of Baker Street” novel version: Enjoy more detailed story
- “The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes”: Reading the original deepens understanding of the work
- London guidebooks: Learn historical background
Learning About 19th-Century London History
Learning about 1888 London, the work’s setting, makes the sacred site pilgrimage more meaningful:
- Victorian Era: Peak of the British Empire
- Post-Industrial Revolution Society: Era of stark wealth disparity
- Jack the Ripper Incident: Actual unsolved historical event
- Gas-lit streets: Different lighting environment from modern times
Special Experiences
Listen to Big Ben’s Chime
Big Ben’s bells ring every 15 minutes with the “Westminster Chime” melody, and at the hour, the Great Bell tolls the number of times corresponding to the hour.
- Every 15 minutes: Westminster Chime (melody)
- On the hour: Great Bell rings the number of times for the hour
- Best location to hear: Parliament Square, Westminster Bridge
Visiting at times when many bells ring, such as noon or 6 PM, is recommended.
Thames River Cruise
A Thames River cruise viewing Big Ben offers a special experience to feel the work’s atmosphere.
- Departure point: Westminster Pier
- Fare: £15-30 (varies by course)
- Duration: 30 minutes to 2 hours
- Recommended: Sunset cruise, dinner cruise
View from the London Eye
The London Eye (giant observation wheel) offers a panoramic view of London including Big Ben.
- Location: South Bank
- Admission: £32 or more (advance booking recommended)
- Duration: approximately 30 minutes
- Recommended time: Dusk
Conclusion
Big Ben, the sacred site of “Detective Conan: Phantom of Baker Street,” is a wonderful place representing London’s most iconic landmark and embodying the work’s world.
Key points for successful sacred site pilgrimage:
- Visit in early morning or dusk for beautiful photography
- Photography from Westminster Bridge is essential
- Use Oyster Card for efficient travel
- Visit nearby spots like Baker Street as well
- Rewatch the work beforehand to check scenes
- Prepare thoroughly for weather
- Pay attention to manners and security
Big Ben shows a different face at different times—day and night, sunny and cloudy. If time allows, visiting at different times is recommended.
The atmosphere of “Phantom of Baker Street,” set in 19th-century London, can be fully experienced in modern London. Historic structures, the Thames River, stone-paved streets, and the majestic figure of Big Ben—all of these allow you to experience the work’s emotion as reality.
Please use this guide as reference and enjoy a wonderful sacred site pilgrimage journey. The special experience awaits you as you set foot in the London world (virtually) experienced by Conan and the others.
Good luck, and enjoy your pilgrimage to Big Ben!