[Detective Conan] The 14th Target – Umihotal, Chiba Prefecture

[Detective Conan] The 14th Target – Umihotaru (Chiba Prefecture)

The second theatrical film of Detective Conan, “The 14th Target,” was released in April 1998. The model for the marine entertainment facility “Aqua Crystal” that appears in this work is the “Umihotaru” parking area of the Tokyo Bay Aqua Line located in Kisarazu City, Chiba Prefecture.

This article provides a comprehensive pilgrimage guide to Umihotaru, a sacred site that any Conan fan should visit at least once, explaining everything from access methods to filming spots and comparisons with scenes from the film.

Relationship Between “The 14th Target” and Umihotaru

Basic Information About the Work

“The 14th Target” depicts a series of consecutive assault incidents where people connected to Mouri Kogoro are targeted in the order of playing card numbers contained in their names. The climax of the story takes place at “Aqua Crystal,” a marine entertainment facility floating in Tokyo Bay.

Film Data

• Release Date: April 18, 1998
• Director: Kenji Kodama
• Screenplay: Kazushige Furuuchi
• Theme Song: ZARD “Shoujo no Koro ni Modotta Mitai ni”
• Box Office Revenue: 1.85 billion yen

“Umihotaru,” the Model for Aqua Crystal

The “Aqua Crystal” that appears in the film is depicted as a state-of-the-art marine entertainment facility floating in Tokyo Bay. This facility was modeled after the “Umihotaru” parking area, which opened in December 1997.

At the time of the film’s release, Umihotaru was a talked-about new facility just four months after opening. Located at the midpoint of the Tokyo Bay Aqua Line, floating on an artificial island in the sea, its innovative structure perfectly matched the film’s setting.

Appearances in the Film

Aqua Crystal appears as an important setting from the latter half of the story onwards.

Main Appearance Scenes:

1. Sawaki Kohei’s Invitation: The sommelier Sawaki Kohei invites Conan and others to Aqua Crystal
2. Underwater Restaurant: A party scene in the facility’s underwater restaurant
3. Climax Setting: An important scene depicting the final confrontation with the culprit and Ran’s heroic actions
4. End Credits: Actual footage of Umihotaru and the Tokyo Bay Aqua Line is used

Particularly in the end credits, actual views of Umihotaru’s exterior and landscapes of the Tokyo Bay Aqua Line are shown, serving as conclusive evidence of the sacred site.

Basic Information About Umihotaru

Facility Overview

Umihotaru is a parking area located at approximately the center of the Tokyo Bay Aqua Line, at the midpoint between Kawasaki City and Kisarazu City.

Basic Data:

• Location: Umihotaru, Nakajima, Kisarazu City, Chiba Prefecture
• Operating Hours: 24 hours (except for some shops)
• Number of Parking Spaces: Approximately 400
• Structure: 5 stories (4 above ground + rooftop)
• Total Length: Approximately 650m
• Width: Approximately 100m

Facility Features

Umihotaru is not merely a parking area but a complex facility with a well-equipped observation deck, restaurants, and shops.

Floor Configuration:

• 5th Floor (Rooftop): Observation Deck “Umimegane”
• 4th Floor: Restaurant Floor, Observation Deck
• 3rd Floor: Food Court, Café, Shops
• 2nd Floor: Parking
• 1st Floor: Parking, Information

From a height of approximately 15 meters above sea level, you can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view. On clear days, you can see Mount Fuji, the Boso Peninsula, and the Miura Peninsula at a glance.

Access Methods to Umihotaru

Access by Private Vehicle

From Kawasaki:

• Via Tokyo Bay Aqua Line from “Kawasaki Ukishima JCT” on the Shonan-Shinjuku Line
• Travel Time: Approximately 15 minutes
• Toll: 800 yen for standard vehicles (when using ETC)

From Kisarazu:

• Via Tokyo Bay Aqua Line from “Kisarazu Kaneda IC” on the Tateyama Expressway
• Travel Time: Approximately 5 minutes
• Toll: 800 yen for standard vehicles (when using ETC)

Points to Note:

• Since Umihotaru is located on the Tokyo Bay Aqua Line, there is no direct access from general roads
• U-turns are possible, and you can return without passing through toll booths

Access by Public Transportation

Even without a car, you can access Umihotaru by bus.

From Kawasaki Station:

• Board the Keikyu Bus “Kisarazu Station bound” bus from “Kawasaki Station East Exit”
• Get off at “Umihotaru” bus stop
• Travel Time: Approximately 30 minutes
• Fare: 720 yen one way (as of 2024)
• Frequency: 7-8 buses per day

From Kisarazu Station:

• Board the Keikyu Bus “Kawasaki Station bound” bus from “Kisarazu Station West Exit”
• Get off at “Umihotaru” bus stop
• Travel Time: Approximately 25 minutes
• Fare: 700 yen one way (as of 2024)
• Frequency: 7-8 buses per day

Bus Usage Tips:

• Since the number of buses is limited, it is recommended to check the schedule in advance
• The number of buses may increase on weekends and holidays
• Check the latest information on the Keikyu Bus official website

Using Tours

Some travel agencies offer Tokyo Bay sightseeing tours that pass through Umihotaru. Recommended for those who want to efficiently visit multiple spots.

Sacred Site Pilgrimage: Complete Photography Guide

Exterior Photography Spots

5th Floor Observation Deck “Umimegane”

The observation deck on the top floor of Umihotaru is an excellent photography spot where you can overlook the entire facility.

Photography Points:

• 360-degree panoramic view of Tokyo Bay
• Entrances and exits of the Aqua Line tunnel
• Mount Fuji in the background on clear days
• Photography especially recommended at sunset

Comparing with scenes where Aqua Crystal’s exterior appears in the film and photographing makes the sacred site pilgrimage feel more real.

4th Floor Observation Deck

An observation deck one level higher than the 3rd floor, where you can feel the structure of Umihotaru floating at sea.

Photography Points:

• Atmosphere of the facility floating at sea
• Ships navigating Tokyo Bay
• Also ideal for night photography

Interior Photography Spots

Restaurant Floor

An area where you can photograph while imagining Aqua Crystal’s underwater restaurant.

Recommended Shops:

• Seafood Restaurant: Offers fresh seafood from Tokyo Bay
• Café: Window seats offer views of the sea
• Food Court: Casual dining

While different from the glamorous party scenes in the film, the atmosphere of dining while overlooking the sea is similar.

Near Aqua Line Tunnel Entrances/Exits

At both ends of Umihotaru are entrances and exits to the Aqua Line tunnel. This structure overlaps with the setting of Aqua Crystal in the film.

Recommended Photography Times by Time of Day

Early Morning (6:00-8:00)

• Magical scenery as morning sun illuminates Tokyo Bay
• Few tourists, allowing for leisurely photography
• Possible misty atmosphere creating a mysterious mood

Daytime (10:00-15:00)

• Mount Fuji appears clearly on sunny days
• Beautiful contrast between blue sky and sea
• Peak tourist time

Sunset (16:00-18:00)

• Spectacular sunset over Tokyo Bay
• Sky and sea painted orange
• Romantic atmosphere perfect for photography

Night (18:00 onwards)

• Facility lighting
• Night views of Kawasaki and Kisarazu on the opposite shore
• Night sky photography possible (weather permitting)

Comparison of Film Scenes and Reality

Comparison of Exteriors

Aqua Crystal in the film is depicted as a futuristic facility floating at sea. Real Umihotaru shares this common point of being an artificial island floating in Tokyo Bay.

Similarities:

• Structure floating at sea
• Located in the center of Tokyo Bay
• Multi-story facility
• Panoramic views from observation decks

Differences:

• Aqua Crystal is depicted as a more luxurious entertainment facility
• Actual Umihotaru’s main function is as a parking area
• The building design is more futuristic in the film

Underwater Restaurant Setting

In the film, Aqua Crystal has an underwater restaurant where you can dine while viewing the marine scenery like an aquarium.

Actual Umihotaru does not have an underwater restaurant, but the restaurant floor on the 4th floor allows you to dine while overlooking the sea. Window seats offer magnificent views of Tokyo Bay, and you can experience the film’s atmosphere.

Live-Action Footage in End Credits

“The 14th Target” end credits use actual footage of Umihotaru and the Tokyo Bay Aqua Line. This is clear evidence that the production staff used Umihotaru as a model.

Places Featured in End Credits:

• Exterior of Umihotaru
• Tunnel section of Tokyo Bay Aqua Line
• Tokyo Bay views from Umihotaru
• Aqua Line connecting roads

Photographing from the same angles as these shots allows for a more authentic sacred site pilgrimage experience.

Ways to Enjoy Umihotaru

Dining

Umihotaru has numerous restaurants and shops where you can enjoy dishes made with fresh seafood from Tokyo Bay and local gourmet specialties from Chiba and Kanagawa.

Recommended Dining:

1. Seafood Rice Bowls and Sushi: Fresh seafood caught in Tokyo Bay
2. Asamiman: Meat bun-style light meal, a Kisarazu specialty
3. Umihotaru Burger: Original hamburgers
4. Soft Serve Ice Cream: Extra special when eaten at the observation deck
5. Boso Craft Beer: Craft beer from Chiba Prefecture

Sampling local flavors during your sacred site pilgrimage is also recommended.

Souvenirs

Popular Souvenirs:

1. Umihotaru Original Goods: Keychains, T-shirts, etc.
2. Chiba Prefecture Peanuts: Classic Chiba souvenir
3. Boso Marine Products: Dried fish, tsukudani, etc.
4. Tokyo Bay Aqua Line Goods: As commemorative items
5. Local Sake and Beer: Regional sake and beer from Chiba and Kanagawa

Official Conan merchandise is not sold here, but many fans purchase Umihotaru original goods as mementos of their sacred site pilgrimage.

Nearby Tourist Attractions

When visiting Umihotaru, also consider touring nearby tourist spots.

Chiba Side:

• Mitsui Outlet Park Kisarazu: Approximately 15 minutes by car
• Mother Farm: Approximately 30 minutes by car
• Kamogawa Sea World: Approximately 60 minutes by car

Kanagawa Side:

• Yokohama Chinatown: Approximately 40 minutes by car
• Hakkeijima Sea Paradise: Approximately 30 minutes by car
• Kamakura: Approximately 50 minutes by car

Notes and Etiquette for Sacred Site Pilgrimage

Photography Precautions

Please Follow Etiquette:

1. Don’t Disturb Other Tourists: Avoid extended location claims during crowded times
2. Don’t Enter Restricted Areas: Photography only in designated areas for safety
3. Be Mindful When Using Tripods: Use in locations that don’t obstruct passage
4. Get Permission for Photography in Shops: Avoid unauthorized photography
5. Be Considerate When Posting on SNS: Blur other people if they appear in photos

Safety Precautions

Precautions Specific to Offshore Facilities:

1. Caution During Strong Winds: The observation deck can be very windy
2. Don’t Lean Over Railings: Avoid getting absorbed in photography
3. Don’t Take Your Eyes Off Children: Particularly important at a marine facility
4. Heat Stroke Prevention in Summer: Limited shade, so stay hydrated
5. Dress Warmly in Winter: Sea winds are cold

Access Precautions

When Using Expressways:

• Since Umihotaru is on an expressway, you cannot access it on foot or by bicycle
• U-turns are possible, but passing through toll booths incurs tolls
• For bus use, check schedules in advance as the number of buses is limited

Other Sacred Sites in “The 14th Target”

Besides Umihotaru, “The 14th Target” has multiple sacred sites.

Tokyo Metropolis

Tokyo Tower

• Appears early in the film
• Location where Inspector Megure is attacked
• Access: 5-minute walk from Oedo Line “Akabashi Station”

Rainbow Bridge

• Appears as Tokyo Bay scenery
• Can be visited on the way back from Umihotaru
• Access: Yurikamome Line “Odaiba Kaihinkoen Station”

Kanagawa Prefecture

Yokohama Port Area

• Model for port scenes in the film
• Yamashita Park, Akarenga Warehouse, etc.
• Access: Minato Mirai Line “Motomachi-Chukagai Station”

Saitama Prefecture

Saitama Shintoshin

• Appears in some urban landscape scenes
• Access: JR “Saitama Shintoshin Station”

If time permits, it is recommended to visit these sacred sites as well.

How to Watch “The 14th Target”

Viewing or re-watching the film before or after your sacred site pilgrimage allows for deeper enjoyment.

Video Streaming Services

Available Services (as of 2024):

1. Hulu: Multiple Detective Conan theatrical versions available
2. Netflix: Occasionally available for limited periods
3. Amazon Prime Video: Available for rent or purchase
4. dAnimeStore: Wide range of Conan works available
5. U-NEXT: Available for rent or purchase

Distribution status varies, so check each service for the latest information.

Physical Media

Blu-ray/DVD:

• Individual editions
• Detective Conan Theatrical Version Box Sets
• Limited editions (with special features)

Physical media is recommended for those who want to own it as part of their collection.

Theater Screenings

When new releases are shown every spring, limited-time screenings of past works may be available. Watching on a large screen is a special experience.

Recommended Sacred Site Pilgrimage Course

Day Trip Course (By Car)

Time Required: Approximately 6 hours

1. 9:00 Depart from Kawasaki Ukishima JCT
2. 9:15 Arrive at Umihotaru, photograph observation deck
3. 10:00 Explore facility and photograph
4. 11:30 Lunch at restaurant
5. 13:00 Purchase souvenirs
6. 14:00 Depart toward Kisarazu
7. 14:30 Shopping at Mitsui Outlet Park Kisarazu
8. 16:00 Head back home

Day Trip Course (By Bus)

Time Required: Approximately 5 hours

1. 10:00 Depart from Kawasaki Station by bus
2. 10:30 Arrive at Umihotaru
3. 10:45 Photograph observation deck
4. 11:30 Explore facility
5. 12:30 Lunch
6. 13:30 Purchase souvenirs
7. 14:30 Final photography
8. 15:00 Board bus for Kawasaki Station

For bus users, planning according to schedules is important as the number of buses is limited.

Two-Day, One-Night Course

Day 1:

• Morning: Umihotaru sacred site pilgrimage
• Afternoon: Sightseeing in Kisarazu/Tateyama area
• Overnight: Hotel or inn in South Boso

Day 2:

• Morning: Sightseeing such as Kamogawa Sea World
• Afternoon: Sacred site pilgrimage in Yokohama area
• Evening: Return home

Recommended for those who want to take time and visit multiple sacred sites.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Is Umihotaru really the model for Aqua Crystal?

A1: While not officially stated, the use of actual Umihotaru footage in the end credits, the timing of release being shortly after Umihotaru’s opening, and the matching setting of a facility floating in Tokyo Bay make it virtually certain that it is the model.

Q2: Can I go without a car?

A2: Yes, buses operate from Kawasaki or Kisarazu stations. However, as the number is limited (7-8 buses per day), checking the schedule in advance and planning your visit accordingly is recommended.

Q3: What is the best time for photography?

A3: Morning to early afternoon on clear days is recommended. Mount Fuji appears clearly and Tokyo Bay’s blue is striking. Sunset is also beautiful for photography. For avoiding crowds, early morning on weekdays is ideal.

Q4: How long should I plan to stay?

A4: Two to three hours is enough to enjoy observation deck photography, facility exploration, and dining. If you want to photograph carefully or dine leisurely, plan for 3-4 hours.

Q5: Are Conan goods sold here?

A5: Unfortunately, official Conan merchandise is not sold at Umihotaru. For sacred site pilgrimage mementos, purchasing Umihotaru original goods or Tokyo Bay Aqua Line-related goods is recommended.

Q6: Can I do night photography?

A6: Yes, it’s possible. Since Umihotaru operates 24 hours, you can access the observation deck at night. The night views of Kawasaki and Kisarazu and the facility’s illumination are beautiful, making it a popular night photography spot.

Q7: Can I enjoy it on rainy days?

A7: The observation deck is outdoors, so photography is difficult on rainy days. However, you can enjoy indoor restaurants and shops, and rainy Tokyo Bay has its own charm. On rainy days, focus on window-based photography.

Q8: Can I visit sacred sites from other Detective Conan theatrical versions?

A8: Yes, it’s possible. Multiple works have sacred sites in the Yokohama area, easily accessible from Umihotaru. With a two-day itinerary, you can efficiently visit sacred sites from multiple works.

Conclusion

Umihotaru in Chiba Prefecture, a sacred site from the Detective Conan theatrical film “The 14th Target,” is a fascinating spot where you can experience the unique setting of an artificial island floating in Tokyo Bay and the world of the film.

Key Points for Umihotaru Sacred Site Pilgrimage:

1. A Confirmed Sacred Site with Actual Footage Used in End Credits
2. Accessible by Both Car and Bus
3. 360-Degree Panoramic Views from Observation Deck are Spectacular
4. Complex Facility with Dining and Shopping
5. Convenient Location to Combine with Nearby Tourist Spots

Despite being released in 1998, over a quarter-century later, Umihotaru remains a popular sacred site visited by many Conan fans. Rewatching the film before visiting will enhance your enjoyment.

Experience the beauty of Tokyo Bay and the world of Detective Conan simultaneously at Umihotaru. Be sure to visit this sacred site at least once. The film’s impact will be revived, and you will surely make new discoveries.

Related Articles

• [Detective Conan] Complete Sacred Site Pilgrimage Guide to All Theatrical Versions
• [Detective Conan] Summary of Chiba Prefecture Sacred Sites
• [Tokyo Bay Aqua Line] Complete Umihotaru Guide
• [The 14th Target] Film Analysis, Consideration, and Trivia
• [Detective Conan] Recommended Sacred Site Pilgrimage Routes in the Kanto Region