Lycoris Recoil Tokyo Holy Land Pilgrimage Complete Guide
The original anime “Lycoris Recoil” aired in the summer of 2022 and became explosively popular. Set in Tokyo, this work features numerous real-life filming locations, making holy land pilgrimage a major boom among fans. This article comprehensively introduces the Lycoris Recoil holy sites scattered throughout Tokyo, while explaining in detail efficient pilgrimage routes and precautions for visiting.
What is Lycoris Recoil
“Lycoris Recoil” is an original television anime produced by A-1 Pictures that aired from July to September 2022. The series was directed by Shingo Adachi, with series composition and screenplay by Asaura, and character design by illustrator Imigimuru.
The story is set in modern Japan where a secret organization called “DA (Direct Attack)” exists to prevent crime before it happens. Centered on the protagonist Chisato Nishikigi and Takina Inoue, the narrative unfolds as an action story where everyday life and extraordinary adventure intersect at their base, Café Lycoris.
A major characteristic of the work is its faithful depiction of real locations within Tokyo. From famous tourist destinations like Asakusa, Odaiba, and Kichijoji that everyone has visited, to hidden spots known only to locals, the authentic Tokyo scenery adds color to the work.
List of Major Holy Sites in Tokyo
Asakusa Area
Around Sensoji Temple
The Asakusa area that appears early in the work is a standard holy pilgrimage spot for Lycoris Recoil fans. You can take photos at the same angles as scenes from the anime, including the Thunder Gate, Nakamise-dori, and the Sensoji Temple main hall.
- Thunder Gate: Appears in a scene from Episode 1 where Chisato and Takina carry out their mission
- Nakamise-dori: The lively shopping street is depicted faithfully
- Sensoji Temple Main Hall: The temple grounds appear as background in multiple episodes
Access: 5 minutes walk from Asakusa Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line / Toei Asakusa Line)
Visiting tips: Early morning (7:00-8:00) has fewer tourists and allows leisurely photography. Weekends and holidays are extremely crowded, so visiting on weekdays is recommended.
Along the Sumida River
The promenade and bridges along the Sumida River also appear in the work. The area around Azuma Bridge in particular offers beautiful scenery with Tokyo Skytree in the background.
Odaiba Area
Aqua City Odaiba
Aqua City Odaiba is where Episode 3 takes place as Chisato and Takina enjoy shopping. The interior atrium and restaurant floor are depicted faithfully.
- 3rd Floor: The corridor where the characters walked
- Outdoor Deck: A spectacular spot overlooking Rainbow Bridge
Access: 1 minute walk from Daiba Station (Yurikamome Line)
Odaiba Seaside Park
Seaside Park with views of the Statue of Liberty and Rainbow Bridge appears as background in multiple scenes. The scenery at dusk is particularly beautiful and popular as a photo spot.
Kichijoji Area
Inokashira Park
Inokashira Park becomes an important setting in the latter half of the work. Benches by the pond, walking paths, and boat rental areas appear in the anime.
- Inokashira Pond: The boat scene filming location
- Shichiio Bridge: The bridge where characters stopped to converse
- Benches in the Park: Used in scenes where Chisato and Takina talk together
Access: 5 minutes walk from Kichijoji Station (JR Chuo Line / Keio Inokashira Line)
Visiting tips: The cherry blossom season (late March-early April) is particularly beautiful but extremely crowded. Fresh greenery season (May) and autumn foliage season (November) are also recommended.
Around Kichijoji Station
Both the north and south exits of Kichijoji Station appear in the work. Everyday scenery such as the station plaza and shopping street entrances are depicted carefully.
Shinjuku Area
Around Shinjuku Station
Shinjuku, the center of Tokyo, is one of the important settings in the work. The distinctive scenery of the west exit, east exit, and south exit of Shinjuku Station all appear.
- Shinjuku Station West Exit: Scenes with high-rise buildings as background
- Shinjuku Station East Exit: The crowded area in front of ALTA
- Shinjuku Station South Exit: The open space of Southern Terrace
Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observation Deck
The observation deck of Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, which appears impressively in Episode 8. Free admission and offers a panoramic view of Tokyo from 202 meters above ground.
Access: Direct connection to Tochomae Station (Toei Oedo Line)
Hours: 9:30-22:00 (South Observation Deck may be closed on certain days)
Shibuya Area
Shibuya Scramble Crossing
Shibuya Scramble Crossing appears in the anime opening visuals. This world-famous crossing is one of the iconic spots representing the Lycoris Recoil world.
Around Shibuya Station
Various locations in Shibuya, the center of youth culture, appear in the work, including Hachiko Square and Shibuya Center-gai.
Akihabara Area
Akihabara Electric Town
Akihabara, which Chisato and her companions visit in Episode 5, is depicted faithfully with the unique atmosphere of Electric Town, signs, and maid cafes.
Access: Akihabara Station (JR Yamanote Line / Sobu Line, Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line, Tsukuba Express)
Ginza / Yurakucho Area
Ginza Chuo-dori
Ginza Chuo-dori lined with luxury boutiques appears in important scenes in the latter half of the work. The pedestrian paradise scene on weekends is also depicted.
Around Yurakucho Station
The area under the Yurakucho Station viaduct and surrounding buildings are used as background.
Other Notable Spots
Tokyo Tower
Tokyo Tower appears multiple times as a distant view. The observation deck views also appear in the work.
Rainbow Bridge
The sight of Rainbow Bridge as seen from the Odaiba direction is depicted impressively in night scenes.
Around Toyosu Market
The Toyosu area appears in Episode 10. Modern architecture and waterfront scenery are distinctive features.
Proposed Efficient Pilgrimage Routes
1-Day Course: Main Spots Coverage Route
Morning: Asakusa Area (9:00-12:00)
- Arrival at Asakusa Station (9:00)
- Explore Thunder Gate and Nakamise-dori (9:00-10:00)
- Sensoji Temple visit and photography (10:00-11:00)
- Sumida River promenade walk (11:00-12:00)
Early Afternoon: Odaiba Area (13:00-16:00)
- Water bus from Asakusa to Odaiba (12:00-13:00)
- Explore Aqua City Odaiba (13:00-14:30)
- Odaiba Seaside Park walk (14:30-16:00)
Late Afternoon: Shibuya / Shinjuku Area (16:30-19:00)
- Yurikamome to Shinbashi, then JR to Shibuya (16:00-16:30)
- Shibuya Scramble Crossing and station area (16:30-17:30)
- JR to Shinjuku (17:30-18:00)
- Shinjuku station area and Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observation Deck (18:00-19:00)
2-Day Course: Leisurely Pilgrimage Route
Day 1: Eastern Area
- Morning: Asakusa Area
- Afternoon: Odaiba Area
- Evening: Akihabara Area
Day 2: Western Area
- Morning: Kichijoji Area (Inokashira Park)
- Afternoon: Shibuya Area
- Evening: Shinjuku Area
Themed Pilgrimage Route
Following in Chisato and Takina’s Footsteps
A course centered on places where the two main characters walked. Visiting in the order Kichijoji → Asakusa → Odaiba allows experiencing the story’s flow.
Night View and Illumination Course
Visiting Tokyo Tower → Rainbow Bridge → Odaiba → Shibuya from evening to night allows enjoying beautiful night views.
Preparation and Manners for Holy Land Pilgrimage
Pre-Visit Preparation
Essential Items
- Smartphone / Camera: For photography. Don’t forget spare batteries
- Images of relevant scenes from the work: Save them for comparison photography
- IC Transit Card: Essential for smooth transportation
- Map Application: Google Maps, Yahoo Maps, etc.
- Drinks and Light Snacks: For extended walking
Helpful Items to Have
- Small tripod or selfie stick
- Mobile battery
- Rain gear (compact umbrella)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Notebook and pen
Etiquette While Visiting
Basic Manners
- No trespassing on private property: Limit photography to public roads and facilities
- Consideration for surroundings: Be mindful not to obstruct foot traffic
- Noise control: Act quietly in residential areas
- Take trash with you: Cooperate in environmental conservation
- Consideration for operating businesses: Get permission before photographing, patronize as customers
Photography Precautions
- Do not use tripods where prohibited
- Be considerate about people’s faces appearing in photos
- Do not use flash where prohibited
- Avoid occupying a location for extended periods
- Refrain from photography in dangerous areas
Precautions for Social Media Posts
- Be cautious about sharing location information
- Edit or consider photos where other visitors appear
- Use spoiler-sensitive hashtags
- Avoid derogatory comments
Recommended Visiting Seasons
Spring (March-May)
Recommended Points
- Cherry blossoms at Inokashira Park are beautiful (late March-early April)
- Mild weather is ideal for extended walks
- Fresh greenery in May is photogenic
Cautions
- Cherry blossom season is extremely crowded
- Golden Week sees heavy tourist traffic
Summer (June-August)
Recommended Points
- Odaiba’s waterfront is pleasant
- Summer festival events held at various locations
- Experience the same seasonal atmosphere as the anime’s broadcast
Cautions
- Heat stroke prevention is essential
- Rain gear needed during rainy season
- Don’t forget sun protection
Autumn (September-November)
Recommended Points
- Autumn foliage is beautiful (mid-to-late November)
- Stable weather and comfortable conditions
- Early sunset makes night photography easier
Cautions
- Autumn foliage season is crowded
- Large temperature differences between morning and evening
Winter (December-February)
Recommended Points
- Illuminations are beautiful
- Clear air ideal for distant photography
- Relatively fewer tourists
Cautions
- Cold weather protection essential
- Early sunset (around 4:30 PM)
- Year-end and New Year periods see heavy transit traffic
Experiences to Enjoy Along with Holy Land Pilgrimage
Culinary Experiences
Asakusa Area
- Agemaki (figurines), senbei (rice crackers) at Nakamise-dori
- Established tempura restaurants
- Monjayaki
Kichijoji Area
- Izakayas at Harmonica Yokocho
- Stylish cafes
- Bakeries near Inokashira Park
Odaiba Area
- Restaurant floor at Aqua City
- Seafood cuisine
- Cafes for breaks
Shopping
Anime Merchandise
Akihabara has numerous stores handling Lycoris Recoil official merchandise and related products. Visiting specialty shops like Animate, Gamers, and Toranoana is also recommended.
Souvenirs
Finding memorable souvenirs is part of the fun. Asakusa’s senbei, Kichijoji sweets, Odaiba limited goods, and more.
Cultural Experiences
Sensoji Temple Worship
Experience Japanese traditional culture by drawing omamori charms and purchasing amulets.
Views from Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observation Deck
Free panoramic views of Tokyo allow experiencing scenes from the work firsthand.
Transportation and Access Information
Recommended Transit Passes
Tokyo Metro 24-Hour Ticket
Price: 600 yen
Coverage: All Tokyo Metro lines
Recommendation: ★★★★☆
Extremely economical when visiting multiple sites. Covers Shibuya, Ginza, Asakusa, and more.
Toei All-Inclusive Pass
Price: 700 yen
Coverage: Toei Subways, Toei Buses, Toden, Nippori-Toneri Liner
Recommendation: ★★★☆☆
Convenient for visiting Asakusa and Shinjuku.
Tokyo Free Ticket
Price: 1,600 yen
Coverage: JR lines (Tokyo 23 wards), all Tokyo Metro lines, all Toei subway lines, Toei buses, Toden, Nippori-Toneri Liner
Recommendation: ★★★★★
Most economical and convenient for wider travel. Ideal if planning to visit many sites in one day.
Travel Time Between Areas
- Asakusa ⇔ Odaiba: approximately 40 minutes (water bus), approximately 50 minutes (train)
- Asakusa ⇔ Kichijoji: approximately 50 minutes
- Odaiba ⇔ Shibuya: approximately 30 minutes
- Shibuya ⇔ Shinjuku: approximately 10 minutes
- Shinjuku ⇔ Kichijoji: approximately 15 minutes
- Akihabara ⇔ Asakusa: approximately 10 minutes
Water Bus Utilization
For traveling from Asakusa to Odaiba, a water bus down the Sumida River is recommended. This 40-minute boat ride includes experiencing passing under Rainbow Bridge.
Fare: 1,560 yen (one-way)
Travel time: approximately 40 minutes
Photography Techniques and Tips
Comparison Photography Points
Angle Matching
To photograph the same angles as scenes in the work, prepare screenshots beforehand and compare with the smartphone screen while adjusting position on location.
Time of Day Selection
Visiting during the time of day matching the work’s scenes (morning, daytime, dusk, night) allows better recreation of atmosphere.
Weather Considerations
Clear skies, overcast, and rainy weather dramatically change landscape impressions. Selecting weather matching the work’s scenes is one approach.
Smartphone Photography Techniques
HDR Mode Utilization
In high-contrast locations, enabling HDR mode produces more beautiful photos.
Grid Line Display
The grid line display feature helps composition using the rule of thirds.
Portrait Mode Utilization
For background blur effects, portrait mode achieves single-lens reflex-quality photos.
DSLR Camera Settings
Lens Selection
- Wide-angle lens (16-35mm): For photographing entire buildings and expansive scenery
- Standard lens (24-70mm): Versatile all-purpose use
- Telephoto lens (70-200mm): For distant subjects or compression effects
Setting Guidelines
- Aperture: F8-F11 (for sharp landscape focus)
- Shutter speed: 1/125 second or faster (prevents camera shake)
- ISO sensitivity: 100-400 (daytime), 800-3200 (nighttime)
Accommodation Information and Recommended Hotels
Asakusa Area
Advantages
- Experience traditional downtown atmosphere
- Relatively affordable accommodations
- Early morning Sensoji Temple visits possible
Recommended Hotel Types
Business hotels, capsule hotels, guesthouses
Shinjuku / Shibuya Area
Advantages
- Excellent transportation connections
- Abundant dining options
- Late-night activities possible
Recommended Hotel Types
Business hotels, city hotels
Odaiba Area
Advantages
- Seaside resort atmosphere
- Beautiful night views
- Extensive shopping facilities
Recommended Hotel Types
Resort hotels, city hotels
Fan Events and Related Information
Official Events
Lycoris Recoil official events are held irregularly, featuring voice actor talk shows, screenings, and merchandise sales. Check the official website and SNS for latest information.
Collaboration Cafes
Limited-time Lycoris Recoil collaboration cafes operate in Tokyo, often in areas like Akihabara, Ikebukuro, and Harajuku.
Exhibitions and Pop-up Stores
Anime specialty shops like Animate and Gamers often feature limited-time special corners with exclusive merchandise and life-size panel displays.
Methods of Recording Holy Land Pilgrimage
Social Media Sharing
Recommended Hashtags
- #リコリコ聖地巡礼
- #リコリスリコイル
- #LycorisRecoil
- #リコリコ
- #聖地巡礼
Posting Tips
- Post work scenes alongside photos of actual locations
- Write detailed impressions of visits
- Share information helpful to other pilgrims
- Use spoiler-considerate tags
Pilgrimage Notebook Creation
Recording visits in paper notebooks or digital note apps is also recommended.
Content to Record
- Visit date and time
- Detailed location information
- Photographed images
- Impressions and observations
- Notes for future visits
Video Recording
Recording vlog-style videos and sharing on YouTube or Nico Nico Video is also popular, effectively conveying travel experiences and atmosphere.
Budget Estimates
Same-Day Pilgrimage
- Transportation: 1,600 yen (Tokyo Free Ticket)
- Meals: 2,000-3,000 yen (lunch and snacks)
- Merchandise purchases: 2,000-5,000 yen (optional)
- Other: 1,000 yen (drinks, souvenirs)
Total: Approximately 6,600-10,600 yen
1-Night, 2-Day Pilgrimage
- Transportation: 3,200 yen (Tokyo Free Ticket × 2 days)
- Accommodation: 5,000-15,000 yen (varies by hotel grade)
- Meals: 5,000-8,000 yen (2 days)
- Merchandise purchases: 3,000-10,000 yen (optional)
- Other: 2,000 yen
Total: Approximately 18,200-38,200 yen
Conclusion: For a Fulfilling Holy Land Pilgrimage
Lycoris Recoil holy site pilgrimage throughout Tokyo offers a precious opportunity to experience the work’s world firsthand. From Asakusa’s traditional downtown charm to Odaiba’s modern scenery and Kichijoji’s calm atmosphere, diverse Tokyo attractions are rediscovered.
Keys to Successful Holy Land Pilgrimage
- Don’t neglect preparations: Confirm visiting hours and access methods
- Maintain relaxed schedules: Avoid overpacking the itinerary
- Follow proper etiquette: Show consideration for local residents and other tourists
- Adapt flexibly to weather: Prepare contingency plans for rain
- Manage health: Stay hydrated and take adequate breaks
- Embrace enjoyment: Avoid perfectionism and savor the atmosphere
As fans who love the work, treasure the sites that have become holy locations and maintain them beautifully for future visitors. Walking through the actual locations where Chisato and Takina dashed will deepen understanding and affection for the work.
The journey through holy sites scattered across this great city of Tokyo becomes an experience beyond mere tourism. By walking the streets your favorite characters traversed and viewing the same scenery, immersion in the work’s world deepens significantly.
We hope your holy land pilgrimage becomes a wonderful memory. Travel safely and enjoy a fulfilling pilgrimage journey!