‘Love Live!’ is a work that has captivated many people not just as anime fans, but as a social phenomenon. With μ’s (Muse) performing at the Red and White Song Festival and successfully holding a concert at Tokyo Dome, its popularity is immeasurable. This article provides a thorough explanation of the sacred sites of ‘Love Live!’ scattered throughout Tokyo, from efficient pilgrimage routes to highlights of each spot—essential information for fans.
About ‘Love Live!’ and Sacred Sites in Tokyo
The Setting and Tokyo in ‘Love Live!’
The story of ‘Love Live!’ unfolds around a fictional school, “Otonoki Zaka Academy,” located in Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo. The work features many real Tokyo landscapes, with areas around Akihabara and Kanda being particularly important settings. Since many places that appear in the anime can actually be visited, sacred site pilgrimage offers fans a precious opportunity to experience the world of the work.
The Appeal and History of Sacred Site Pilgrimage
The sacred site pilgrimage for ‘Love Live!’ began with the anime’s broadcast start in 2013. At Kanda Myojin, collaborative projects were implemented from early on, with initiatives such as merchandise sales and the dedication of ema (votive plaques) developing into community-wide efforts. Many fans visit multiple times because of the changing scenery with the seasons and new discoveries to be made. The major appeal of sacred site pilgrimage is the ability to take unique photos and deepen one’s love for the work.
Kanda Myojin | The Legendary Starting Point of Love Live!
Basic Information and Access to Kanda Myojin
Kanda Myojin is arguably the most important location in ‘Love Live!’ sacred site pilgrimage. Located at 2-chome, Sotokanda, Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo, it is a historic shrine with over 1,300 years of history.
Access Information:
- 5 minutes walk from Ochanomizu Station (JR Chuo/Sobu Line) Hijiri Bridge Exit
- 7 minutes walk from Akihabara Station (JR Yamanote/Keihin-Tohoku Line) Electric Town Exit
- 5 minutes walk from Shin-Ochanomizu Station (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line) B1 Exit
- 5 minutes walk from Ochanomizu Station (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line) Exit 1
- 5 minutes walk from Suehirocho Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
Opening Hours: Available for worship 24/7 (Shrine office: 9:00–17:00)
Photography Guide for the Legendary Staircase (Male Slope)
The most famous sacred site spot at Kanda Myojin is the staircase known as the “Male Slope.” Featured in the first episode as μ’s members run up the stairs and in the opening sequence of Season 2, this staircase has become symbolic of ‘Love Live!’
Photography Points:
- Looking up from the bottom of the stairs (opening recreation)
- Turning back mid-staircase
- Capturing the entire view with the torii gate and stairs together
- Soft light in early morning or evening is recommended
The stairs have a steep gradient with many steps, so be considerate of other worshippers when photographing. Especially on weekends and holidays when it’s crowded, weekday mornings offer relatively unrushed shooting opportunities.
Highlights of the Sacred Grounds and Sacred Sites
Kanda Myojin’s grounds contain numerous spots that appeared in the anime.
Main Spots:
- Zuishinmon Gate: A beautifully lacquered red gate appearing multiple times in the anime
- Main Hall: The stage for scenes where μ’s members pray
- Ema Hanging Area: Where many ‘Love Live!’ fan plaques are dedicated
- Offering Booth: Where ‘Love Live!’ collaboration merchandise is sometimes sold
- Daikoku-sama Statue: A large stone statue in an open area of the grounds
Kanda Myojin’s Collaboration Projects and Merchandise Information
Kanda Myojin regularly conducts collaboration projects with ‘Love Live!’. In the past, limited ema plaques, amulets, and ema plaques were sold, attracting many fans. Latest collaboration information can be found on the Kanda Myojin official website and SNS.
Additionally, “EDOCCO” in the grounds carries not only Kanda Myojin original merchandise but also anime-related products typical of Akihabara.
Sacred Sites in the Akihabara Area
Takenomura (Model for Homumuura)
The long-established sweet shop “Takenomura,” which served as the model for Honoka Kousaka’s family shop “Homumuura,” is an essential spot in an Akihabara sacred site pilgrimage. This historic Japanese confectionery shop, founded in 1930, features their famous fried dumplings in the anime.
Store Information:
- Address: 1-19 Kandasudacho, Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo
- Hours: 11:00–20:00 (Closed Sundays and holidays)
- Access: 5 minutes walk from JR Akihabara Station, 2 minutes walk from Tokyo Metro Awajiicho Station
Recommended Menu Items:
- Fried Dumplings (red bean and cream)
- Anmitsu
- Zenzai
The interior has a Showa retro atmosphere, allowing you to feel the anime’s worldview. During busy times, you may be asked to share a table, so visit with extra time.
Around Akihabara UDX
The Akihabara streetscape featured in the anime is primarily set around UDX (Akihabara Crossfield).
Photography Spots:
- UDX plaza (various event scenes)
- Chuo-dori (walking scenes)
- Intersection in front of the Electric Town Exit
- Sidewalk overpass along Showadon-dori
As Akihabara constantly changes, some landscapes differ from when the anime aired. However, the overall atmosphere of the city retains strong elements of the work’s worldview.
Sacred Sites Around Akihabara Station
JR Akihabara Station itself appears multiple times in the anime.
Main Spots:
- Electric Town Exit ticket gate (scenes of members meeting)
- Platform (waiting for train scenes)
- Station plaza (street live performance scenes)
Photography within the station requires attention to not inconvenience other users. Avoid rush hours especially, and enjoy the sacred site pilgrimage while following proper etiquette.
Other Spots in the Kanda and Akihabara Area
Manseibashi: Bridge connecting Akihabara and Kanda, appearing in Season 2
Along the Kandagawa River: The stage for scenes where members take walks
Chabara (Akihabara Food Culture Dissemination Base): Doesn’t appear directly in the anime, but recommended as a rest spot during Akihabara exploration
Sacred Sites in the Ochanomizu and Hongo Area
Hijiriibashi (Hijiri Bridge)
Near Ochanomizu Station, Hijiri Bridge is a beautiful arch bridge spanning the Kandagawa River. It is impressively featured in the anime opening and in the story.
Photography Points:
- Angle looking down the Kandagawa from the bridge
- Composition capturing the entire bridge from the bridge’s base
- Photographing together with JR Chuo Line trains
The bridge’s walkway is narrow, so be considerate not to obstruct pedestrians.
Around Nikolai-do
Formally known as “Tokyo Resurrection Cathedral,” Nikolai-do is a landmark in Ochanomizu. It appears in the anime’s background and radiates a unique presence.
Basic Information:
- Address: 4-1-3 Kandaasurugadai, Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo
- Viewing Hours: 13:00–16:00 (Closed Mondays, admission ¥300)
- Access: 2 minutes walk from JR Ochanomizu Station
Yushima Seido
Yushima Seido, located within walking distance of Kanda Myojin, is also used as background in the work. This historic structure served as a place of learning during the Edo period and has an appealing quiet atmosphere.
Basic Information:
- Address: 1-4-25 Yushima, Bunkyo Ward, Tokyo
- Opening Hours: 9:30–17:00 (16:00 in winter)
- Admission: Free (admission fee for inside Taisei Hall)
Sacred Sites in the Shinagawa and Harumi Area
Harumi Cruise Terminal (Love Live! Main Contest Venue)
The Harumi Cruise Terminal, which appeared in the anime as the venue for the Love Live! main competition, is an important Tokyo Port facility.
Basic Information:
- Address: 5-7-1 Harumi, Chuo Ward, Tokyo
- Access: 15 minutes walk from Kachidoki Station (Toei Oedo Line), or by municipal bus
- Viewing: Exterior only (interior for ship users only)
The vast grounds and view of the sea match the grandeur befitting the anime’s climactic scenes. As redevelopment is progressing in the surrounding area, check the latest information before visiting.
Around Shinagawa Station
Shinagawa Station appears in the theatrical version as the starting point for a journey to visit school idols nationwide. The station’s Shinkansen platform and interior are depicted.
Points of Interest:
- Shinkansen platform (photography restricted)
- Central ticket gate area
- Station plaza
Efficient Sacred Site Pilgrimage Model Courses
Classic Route in One Day (For Beginners)
Duration: Approximately 6–8 hours
- 9:00 Kanda Myojin (1.5 hours stay)
- Commemorative photo at Male Slope
- Explore the grounds
- Dedicate an ema plaque
- 10:30 Ochanomizu Area (1 hour stay)
- Photography at Hijiri Bridge
- Visit Nikolai-do
- 12:00 Takenomura (1 hour stay)
- Enjoy fried dumplings as lunch
- 13:30 Akihabara Exploration (2–3 hours stay)
- Photograph around UDX
- Explore Electric Town
- Visit anime merchandise shops
- 16:30 Yushima Seido (30 minutes stay)
- Enjoy the quiet atmosphere
- 17:00 Return to Kanda Myojin (30 minutes stay)
- Re-photograph in the evening atmosphere
Two-Day Course for In-Depth Exploration (For Advanced Pilgrims)
Day 1: Concentrated Kanda, Akihabara, and Ochanomizu Course
Spend the morning leisurely worshipping at Kanda Myojin, then explore detailed spots in Akihabara in the afternoon. In the evening, explore the Ochanomizu area, and enjoy anime shops and cafes in Akihabara at night.
Day 2: Wider Tokyo Area Course
Start from Shinagawa Station and head to Harumi Cruise Terminal. Afterward, visit Ueno Zoo and the marathon course around the Imperial Palace that appeared in Season 2.
Recommended Visiting Seasons
Spring (March–May)
- Kanda Myojin’s cherry blossoms are beautiful
- Pleasant weather makes long walks comfortable
Summer (June–August)
- Special atmosphere during Kanda Myojin’s summer festival
- Heat stroke precautions essential
Autumn (September–November)
- Autumn leaves make for optimal photography
- Various collaboration events tend to be held
Winter (December–February)
- Clear air produces beautiful photos
- New Year’s shrine visit season is crowded
Preparation and Precautions for Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Packing Checklist
Essential Items:
- Smartphone/Camera (charger/backup battery)
- Sacred site pilgrimage map (app or printed)
- Transit IC card
- Drinks and light snacks
- Comfortable walking shoes
Helpful to Have:
- Mobile battery pack
- Work image data (for comparison photos)
- Notebook and pen
- Folding umbrella
- Towel and handkerchief
Etiquette and Rules
The following etiquette is important for enjoying sacred site pilgrimage.
Basic Etiquette:
- Do not trespass on private property
- Consider those around you when photographing
- Avoid loud conversations or shouting
- Always take trash with you
- Follow shrine and temple worship etiquette
- Obtain permission before photographing in shops
- Avoid standing on roads for extended periods
Notes at Kanda Myojin:
- Prioritize worshippers
- Keep staircase photography brief
- Eating and drinking only in designated areas
- Handle ema plaques carefully
Photography Techniques and SNS Utilization
Photography Tips:
- Find angles matching scenes in the anime
- Use how light changes throughout the day
- Use a wide-angle lens to capture broad backgrounds
- Note portrait rights when including people
Notes When Posting on SNS:
- Be careful with location sharing
- Avoid capturing other worshippers
- Use hashtags like “#LoveLiveSacredSite” or “#KandaMyojin”
- Respect copyright and avoid unauthorized use of official images
Love Live! Merchandise and Collaboration Information
Anime Shops in Akihabara
Major Stores:
- Animate Akihabara Main Building
- Address: 4-3-2 Sotokanda, Chiyoda Ward
- Always stocked with Love Live! merchandise
- Gamers Akihabara Main Store
- Address: 1-14-7 Sotokanda, Chiyoda Ward
- Limited edition and collaboration products
- Toranoana Akihabara Store A
- Address: 4-3-1 Sotokanda, Chiyoda Ward
- Doujinshi and fan merchandise
Original Merchandise at Kanda Myojin
Kanda Myojin sells collaboration merchandise with ‘Love Live!’ on an irregular basis.
Past Sales Examples:
- Collaboration ema plaques
- Original ema plaques
- Amulets
- Clear files
- Keychains
Latest information is available on the Kanda Myojin official website and Twitter. Popular items may sell out early, so visiting on the first day of release is recommended.
Limited-Time Collaboration Cafe Information
Collaboration cafes related to ‘Love Live!’ regularly open in Akihabara. Check the official website and anime information sites for the latest information.
Recommended Spots Around Sacred Sites
Dining and Rest Spots
Kanda and Akihabara Area:
- Kanda Yabusoba
- Historic soba shop, good for meals during sacred site pilgrimage
- Niku no Bansei
- Akihabara specialty, filling Western cuisine
- Maid Cafes
- Experience characteristic of Akihabara
- Curry Shop C&C
- Historic curry shop in Akihabara
Accommodation Information
Accommodation information for fans visiting from afar.
Convenient Hotels:
- Akihabara Washington Hotel (connected to station)
- Rem Akihabara (1 minute walk from station)
- Toyoko Inn Akihabara (economical)
- Apa Hotel Ochanomizu Station Front (near Kanda Myojin)
Guest Houses:
- Nui.HOSTEL&BAR LOUNGE (Bakurocho)
- WISE OWL HOSTELS TOKYO (Oguomachi)
Nearby Sightseeing Spots
Sightseeing spots to enjoy alongside sacred site pilgrimage.
Ueno Area:
- Ueno Zoo (appears in anime Season 2, episode 11)
- Ueno Park
- Ameya Yokocho
Asakusa Area:
- Sensoji Temple
- Thunder Gate
- Tokyo Skytree
Around the Imperial Palace:
- Imperial Palace East Gardens
- Chidorigafuchi (famous cherry blossom spot)
Sacred Site Information for Other Love Live! Series Works
Differences with Sunshine!! (Numazu)
‘Love Live! Sunshine!!’ is set in Numazu City, Shizuoka Prefecture, where Aqours’s story unfolds. In contrast to Tokyo’s sacred sites, it features landscapes enriched with nature, mountains, and ocean.
Main Differences:
- Tokyo: Urban sacred sites, excellent access, multiple spots visitable in one day
- Numazu: Regional sacred sites, wide area, strong community ties
Visiting both allows deeper understanding of the ‘Love Live!’ series’ worldview.
Nijigasaki Gakuen and Liella!’s Sacred Sites
Nijigasaki Academy School Idol Club: Set around Odaiba
- Rainbow Bridge
- Diversity Tokyo
- Fuji Television headquarters area
Liella! (Superstar!!): Set around Harajuku and Omotesando
- Takeshita-dori
- Meiji Shrine
- Yoyogi Park
These sacred sites are also within Tokyo, making combination pilgrimage with μ’s sacred sites possible.
Summary: Maximizing Your Love Live! Sacred Site Pilgrimage Experience
The sacred site pilgrimage for ‘Love Live!’ in Tokyo centers on the Akihabara and Ochanomizu areas around Kanda Myojin. While it’s possible to visit major spots in one day, taking two days to explore leisurely is also recommended.
Key Points to a Successful Sacred Site Pilgrimage:
- Thorough Prior Preparation: Download map apps, confirm business hours, check weather forecasts
- Follow Proper Etiquette: Never forget consideration for local residents and other worshippers
- Allow Extra Time: It often takes longer than expected
- Preserve Memories: Create keepsakes through photos and notes
- Check Latest Information: Watch for collaboration projects and construction notices
Kanda Myojin’s legendary staircase, Takenomura’s fried dumplings, the streets of Akihabara—the excitement of seeing landscapes you’ve witnessed countless times in the anime right before your eyes is an invaluable experience for fans. Using this article as a guide, create your own sacred site pilgrimage plan and fully enjoy the world of ‘Love Live!’
The appeal of sacred site pilgrimage is that there’s always something new to discover on each visit. By visiting during different seasons, at different times, and in alignment with new series releases, your love for the work will deepen. Walk the Tokyo streets that μ’s rushed through with your own two feet.
