The Movie “Detective Conan: The Raven Chaser” is the 13th theatrical installment released in 2009, achieving a remarkable box office revenue of 3.5 billion yen. The Tokyo Tower, which appears as the grand stage for this film’s climax, has become an essential pilgrimage site for Conan fans.
This article comprehensively covers information necessary for a pilgrimage to the film’s location, from Tokyo Tower’s appearances in “The Raven Chaser,” to practical visiting methods, photography spots, and related facilities in the surrounding area.
The Significance of Tokyo Tower in “The Raven Chaser”
Climactic Scene at the Core of the Story
In “The Raven Chaser,” Tokyo Tower serves as the most critical stage in the narrative. It becomes the location of the final confrontation with Irish, a member of the Black Organization, as Conan faces off in a tense scene.
What is particularly impressive is the nightscape view from Tokyo Tower’s observation deck and the chase scene inside the tower. At 333 meters tall, Tokyo’s symbol functions as a suspenseful stage setting, leaving a memorable impression on the work.
Specific Scenes in the Film
Tokyo Tower appears in the following important scenes:
- Observation Deck Confrontation Scene: The location where Irish and Conan’s final battle unfolds
- Exterior Shots: Beautiful imagery of the illuminated Tokyo Tower at night
- Internal Staircase: Intense moments of the chase scene
- Tower Surroundings: Scenes where police and the Junior Detective League gather
These scenes faithfully recreate the structure and characteristics of the actual Tokyo Tower, allowing visitors to experience the film’s sense of immediacy.
Tokyo Tower Basic Information
Facility Overview
Official Name: Nippon Denpa To (commonly known as: Tokyo Tower)
Location: 〒105-0011 Shibakoen 4-chome, Minato Ward, Tokyo
Height: 333 meters
Completion Date: December 23, 1958 (Showa 33)
Architects: Taku Naito, Nikken Sekkei
Tokyo Tower was cherished as Japan’s tallest structure until Tokyo Skytree was completed. It remains a landmark and tourist destination in Tokyo, attracting approximately three million visitors annually.
Types and Fees for Observation Decks
Tokyo Tower has two observation decks:
Main Deck (150 meters)
- Adults (high school and above): 1,200 yen
- Children (elementary and middle school): 700 yen
- Infants (ages 4 and up): 500 yen
Top Deck Tour (250 meters)
- Adults (high school and above): 3,000 yen
- Children (elementary and middle school): 2,000 yen
- Infants (ages 4 and up): 1,400 yen
※Fees are current as of 2024. Please verify the latest information on the official website.
Operating Hours
- Main Deck: 9:00 AM–10:30 PM (Last entry at 10:00 PM)
- Top Deck Tour: 9:00 AM–10:15 PM (Last tour 9:30 PM–10:15 PM)
- Open year-round
Operating hours may change during special events, so it’s recommended to check the official website before your visit.
Complete Access Guide
Access by Train
Multiple stations provide convenient access to Tokyo Tower:
Toei Oedo Line “Akabane-bashi Station”
- Approximately 5 minutes on foot from the Akabane-bashi Exit
- The closest station for convenient access
- Head straight ahead from the ticket gate and cross Route 1
Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line “Kamiyacho Station”
- Approximately 7 minutes on foot from Exit 1
- Head south on Sakurada-dori toward Tokyo Tower
Toei Mita Line “Onarimon Station”
- Approximately 6 minutes on foot from Exit A1
- Head south on Hibiya-dori
Toei Mita Line “Shibakoen Station”
- Approximately 10 minutes on foot from Exit A4
- The route through Shibakoen offers excellent scenery
JR Yamanote Line and Keihin-Tohoku Line “Hamamatsucho Station”
- Approximately 15 minutes on foot from the North Exit
- Though a bit farther, convenient for transfers from major stations
Access by Bus
Toei Bus
- Get off at “Tokyo Tower” bus stop (immediate vicinity)
- Routes available from Shibuya, Shinbashi, Shinagawa, and elsewhere
Access by Car and Parking
Access from Metropolitan Expressway
- Approximately 5 minutes from the “Shibakoen Exit” of the Urban Expressway Loop
- Approximately 7 minutes from the “Shibakoen Exit” of Metropolitan Expressway Route 2 Meguro Line
Parking Information
- Tokyo Tower Parking Center
- Capacity: Approximately 150 spaces
- Fee: 600 yen for the first hour, then 300 yen per 30 minutes
- Hours: 9:00 AM–11:00 PM
Weekends and holidays see heavy congestion, making public transportation recommended.
Location Pilgrimage | Photography Spot Guide
Photography Points on the Main Deck (150m)
The Main Deck, which served as the stage for “The Raven Chaser’s” climactic scene, is the most important pilgrimage spot.
Recommended Photography Points:
- North Observation Area
- View of Tokyo Skytree and Asakusa area
- Possible to recreate scenes where Conan overlooks Tokyo
- South Observation Area
- Night views of Rainbow Bridge and Odaiba area
- Romantic atmosphere perfect for photography
- Glass Floor “Look Down Window”
- Special area where you can look down at ground level from above
- Experience the tension of high altitude
Photography Tips:
- Tripods are effective for night photography (usage may be restricted during crowded periods)
- Keep the lens in close contact with glass to avoid reflections
- Sunset time (magic hour) offers the most beautiful lighting
Views from the Top Deck (250m)
The higher Top Deck, which provides a panoramic view of Tokyo, is also ideal for experiencing the film’s atmosphere.
Features:
- 360-degree panoramic views
- More refined space design
- Reservation system allows for leisurely viewing
Ideal Spots for Exterior Photography
Tokyo Tower’s exterior appears multiple times in the film.
Angle from Shibakoen
- Composition looking up at the tower
- Particularly beautiful during cherry blossom season (late March to early April)
- Perfect for photos resembling scenes where police gather in the film
View from Zojoji Temple
- Contrast between historic structure and Tokyo Tower
- Allows for photography with Japanese atmosphere
Vicinity of Akabane-bashi Intersection
- Can capture the tower head-on
- Nighttime illumination is beautiful
Staircase Area (Usually Closed to Public)
The staircase area where the chase scene took place is normally not open to the public. However, during the special “Tokyo Tower Staircase Walk” event (held several times per year), visitors can actually climb the external staircase.
Staircase Walk Event Information:
- Frequency: Irregular (announced on official website)
- Participation Fee: Free to paid (varies by event)
- Duration: Approximately 30–45 minutes
- For those with good physical fitness (approximately 600 steps)
Best Times to Visit
Twilight Hours (4:00 PM–6:00 PM)
The most recommended time. You can enjoy the transition from bright daytime scenery to night views.
- Beautiful sky gradation during magic hour
- Gradual illumination of city lights
- Optimal lighting conditions for photography
Nighttime (7:00 PM–10:00 PM)
Since the climactic scene in “The Raven Chaser” takes place at night, you can most strongly feel the film’s atmosphere.
- Tokyo’s nightscape shines most beautifully
- The tower’s own illumination is also enjoyable
- Romantic atmosphere
Points of Note:
- Crowded on weekends and holidays
- Be mindful of final entry time (10:00 PM)
Weekday Morning (9:00 AM–11:00 AM)
Recommended for those wanting to view at leisure with fewer crowds.
- Can avoid congestion
- Photography is easier
- Mt. Fuji may be visible on clear days
Highlights Inside Tokyo Tower
Foot Town (Floors 1–3)
Floor 1: Entrance
- Ticket counter
- Tokyo Tower Official Shop
- Conan merchandise sometimes sold
Floor 2: Former Tokyo Tower Aquarium Area
- Currently used as temporary event space
Floor 3: Tokyo Tower Official Shop Main Store
- Tokyo Tower limited-edition merchandise
- Ideal for souvenir shopping
Tokyo One Piece Tower (Former Facility)
The “Tokyo One Piece Tower,” which operated from 2016 to 2020, has closed but is now used as an event space. Conan-related limited-time events may be held, so check the official website.
Restaurants and Cafés
Tower’s Diner (Floor 1)
- Casual restaurant
- Hamburgers, pasta, and more
Café La Tour (Main Deck Floor 2)
- Café inside the observation deck
- Perfect for breaks while enjoying the view
Club 333 (Special Operating Days Only)
- Special restaurant on the highest level
- Reservation-only upscale dining
Surrounding Related Spots
Shibakoen Park
Metropolitan Park Adjacent to Tokyo Tower
- Ideal as a photography spot for Tokyo Tower
- Beautiful cherry blossoms in spring, autumn foliage in fall
- Available for picnics and relaxation
- Free admission
Zojoji Temple
Ancestral Temple of the Tokugawa Shogunate
- Approximately 5 minutes on foot from Tokyo Tower
- Features contrasting charm of historic structure and Tokyo Tower
- Free temple grounds to explore
- Goshuin (temple seals) are popular
Tokyo Prince Hotel
- Hotel in the immediate vicinity of Tokyo Tower
- Rooms with views of Tokyo Tower available
- Ideal accommodation for pilgrimage
Roppongi Hills
- Approximately 20 minutes on foot or 10 minutes by car from Tokyo Tower
- Can view Tokyo Tower from its observation deck
- Full selection of shopping and dining
Hamarikyu Gardens
- Historic daimyo garden from the Edo period
- Approximately 20 minutes on foot from Tokyo Tower
- Fusion of Japanese garden and urban landscape
About “The Raven Chaser”
Work Overview
Release Date: April 18, 2009
Box Office Revenue: 3.5 billion yen
Runtime: 111 minutes
Director: Taiichiro Yamamoto
Screenwriter: Kazunari Furuuchi
Story
A series of murders occur in Tokyo, Kanagawa, Shizuoka, and Nagano, with mysterious mahjong tiles left at crime scenes. The Metropolitan Police Department holds an investigative meeting, which Conan and others attend. However, Irish, a member of the Black Organization, has infiltrated the meeting in disguise as a police officer.
Irish’s objective is to expose Conan’s true identity and report it to the organization. As the danger of Conan’s secret identity being revealed to the organization looms, the final confrontation begins at Tokyo Tower.
Highlights
- Direct Confrontation with the Black Organization: Depicts a genuine battle with organization members
- Irish’s Tragedy: Portrays the enemy character torn between loyalty to the organization and humanity
- Action Scene at Tokyo Tower: Intense high-altitude chase sequences
- Junior Detective League’s Activities: The children play important roles
How to Enjoy Location Pilgrimage
Pre-Visit Preparation
Review the Work
- Re-watch “The Raven Chaser” before visiting
- Check scenes featuring Tokyo Tower
- Take screenshots to compare with the location
Packing Checklist
- Camera or smartphone (and chargers)
- Device to review film scenes
- Comfortable shoes (if using stairs)
- Seasonal clothing (observation deck is windy)
Photography Etiquette
- Be considerate of other visitors
- Avoid tripods during crowded times
- Be mindful of flash photography affecting others
- Absolutely no photography in private areas or restricted zones
Tips for Social Media Posts
Example Hashtags:
- #名探偵コナン
- #漆黒の追跡者
- #東京タワー
- #聖地巡礼
- #コナン聖地
- #アニメ聖地巡礼
Ways to Enhance Posts:
- Comparison photos of film scenes and the same angles
- Impressions and discoveries from your visit
- Advice for fellow fans
Seasonal Enjoyment Guide
Spring (March–May)
- Cherry Blossom Season: Cherry blossoms and Tokyo Tower together
- Mild climate ideal for tourism
- Golden Week sees heavy crowding
Summer (June–August)
- Stays bright longer, extending night-view viewing time
- Summer vacation period is crowded
- Observation deck is air-conditioned for comfort
Autumn (September–November)
- Clear air with far-reaching visibility
- High probability of seeing Mt. Fuji
- Autumn foliage season makes surrounding exploration enjoyable
Winter (December–February)
- Special illumination during Christmas season
- Clear air makes night views beautiful
- Cold-weather preparation is essential (observation deck is windy)
Special Event Information
Illumination
Tokyo Tower features different illuminations on various days:
Landmark Light
- Regular illumination
- Color changes seasonally
Diamond Veil
- Special illumination on particular days
- Seven-color LED brilliance
Conan-Related Events
Past Conan-related events have included:
- Special exhibitions commemorating film releases
- Limited-edition Conan merchandise sales
- Stamp rallies
Latest event information can be found on the Tokyo Tower official website and Conan official website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long should I plan to spend at Tokyo Tower?
A: For Main Deck viewing only, about one hour is needed. If including the Top Deck, plan for 1.5–2 hours. If spending time on detailed photography or café breaks, allow additional time.
Q: Can I enjoy it on rainy days?
A: The observation deck is indoors, so rain poses no problem. However, visibility may be reduced. Some say the night view on rainy days is hauntingly beautiful.
Q: Is wheelchair access available?
A: Yes, Tokyo Tower is wheelchair accessible. You can take the elevator to the observation deck. Wheelchair rentals are available (limited quantity).
Q: Is same-day re-entry possible?
A: Yes, re-entry is possible on the same day by having your hand stamped at the counter.
Q: Can I purchase Conan merchandise?
A: The official shop inside Tokyo Tower doesn’t always carry Conan merchandise. However, it may be available during theatrical film release periods. For guaranteed purchases, visiting anime shops in Akihabara or Ikebukuro is recommended.
Conclusion
Tokyo Tower, the pilgrimage site of “Detective Conan: The Raven Chaser,” is a wonderful place to re-experience the film’s emotional impact. The panoramic view from 333 meters, the observation deck that served as the climactic stage, and its presence as a Tokyo symbol make it a must-visit destination for Conan fans and others alike.
Key Points for a Successful Location Pilgrimage:
- Review the film beforehand and confirm scenes
- Visiting from twilight into evening is recommended
- Weekdays avoid heavier crowding
- Also visit nearby Shibakoen and Zojoji Temple
- Check for seasonal illumination and event information
Tokyo Tower is a special place where the world of Conan and reality intersect. Using this article as reference, enjoy a fulfilling pilgrimage. It will surely be an unforgettable experience that deepens your appreciation for the work.
