The Movie Detective Conan “The Assassin in Her Eyes” and Shima Spain Village
The fourth theatrical Detective Conan film released in 2000, “The Assassin in Her Eyes,” continues to be loved by many fans as a touching work depicting Ran’s memory loss and her bond with Conan. The important stage that adorns the climax of this work is an amusement park called “Tropical Land.”
In fact, this Tropical Land is based on “Shima Spain Village Parque España” located in Shima City, Mie Prefecture, as revealed by the production staff. With the film producer himself officially stating this, it has been confirmed as fact rather than mere rumor. The production staff actually conducted location scouting at Shima Spain Village and incorporated various attractions and structures within the park into the work.
Why Shima Spain Village Was Chosen
Shima Spain Village is a full-fledged theme park that opened in 1994, recreating Spanish streets and culture. With exotic architecture, colorful streets, and diverse attractions, it was an ideal environment for a movie set. In particular, the fantastical atmosphere required for the night parade scenes and the diverse locations that could create thrilling chase sequences captured the hearts of the production team.
Detailed Attractions and Spots from Shima Spain Village Featured in the Movie
Opening Scene: Pyrenees (Roller Coaster)
The roller coaster scene at the beginning of the film where Conan and the others ride is modeled after “Pyrenees,” the flagship attraction of Shima Spain Village. It’s a suspended leg-dangling roller coaster inspired by the Pyrenees mountain range that straddles the border between Spain and France, and in the film it is depicted from the perspective of the frontmost seat.
The actual Pyrenees boasts impressive specs of a total length of 1,234 meters, a maximum speed of 100 km/h, and a maximum drop of 42 meters. Those wanting to recreate the movie scene should definitely ride in the front row. The sense of openness and exhilaration is exactly what Conan and the others experienced in the film.
Holy Site Pilgrimage Point: You can see the entire course from the waiting queue before boarding, making it ideal as a photo spot as well. Photographs taken against a blue sky backdrop especially come out looking like a scene from the movie.
Climax Setting: Gaudí Square Area
The scene where Ran flees from the culprit is modeled after “Gaudí Square,” located in the center of the park. A square inspired by the works of Spanish architect Antoni Gaudí, it is characterized by colorfully vibrant tiles and distinctive curved beauty.
In the film, Ran desperately runs through this square while Conan chases after her, unfolding a scene full of tension. The actual square is open, with restaurants and shops lining the surroundings.
Holy Site Pilgrimage Point: Taking photographs from the center of the square overlooking the surrounding buildings will give you a composition close to the movie scene. The late afternoon when light streams in is especially recommended.
Important Spots in the Night Parade
Granada’s Gate
“Granada’s Gate,” which is impressively featured in the night parade scene of the film, is a stately gate inspired by Granada in Spain’s Andalusia region. Its illuminated appearance is fantastical, and it was used as an important background in the movie.
In the actual park, it is designed so that visitors pass through this gate to move between areas, inviting them into another world. During night illuminations, the very landscape you saw in the movie spreads out before your eyes.
Bell of Happiness
“Bell of Happiness” is another spot that can be confirmed in the night parade scene. This bell, said to bring happiness when rung by couples and families, has become a popular photo spot within the park. While it appears in the background in the film, actually visiting and ringing it yourself is one of the pleasures of a holy site pilgrimage.
Santa Cruz Street
There’s a scene where a sign for “Santa Cruz Street” appears near the culprit. This is an actual street within the park, recreating a traditional Spanish street area. With white-walled buildings and cobblestone streets continuing, it’s a beautiful street where you can feel like you’re on a Spanish trip just by strolling through.
Holy Site Pilgrimage Point: Many fans take commemorative photos in front of the sign. Photos capturing the overall atmosphere of the street are also recommended.
The Battle of Alcázar “Adelante”
Appearing as Ran and Conan flee together is “The Battle of Alcázar ‘Adelante.'” This is a popular attraction at Shima Spain Village, a ride-type attraction themed around a medieval Spanish fortress.
“Adelante” means “forward” in Spanish, and guests progress into the world of battle. In the film, the exterior is shown, and the impressive presence of this powerful building makes an impression.
Holy Site Pilgrimage Point: You can photograph the entire building from near the attraction entrance. Night illumination time is especially close to the movie’s atmosphere.
Galleon Ship “Arna”
The pirate ship-like vessel that appears in the chase scene of the film is the “Arna.” This is a recreation of a galleon used by Spain in the 16th century and is a symbol within the park.
The actual “Arna” is set up as a display, and seeing it up close is surprising given its elaborate construction. While it appears in the background in the film, the real thing is larger and more impressive than expected.
Holy Site Pilgrimage Point: Shooting from a position slightly away to capture the full image of the ship is recommended. A close-up of the bow also evokes a scene from the movie.
Fountain Plaza (In front of The Sun’s Cave)
The climax scene where the culprit points a gun at Ran from the other side of a fountain is one of the most tension-filled moments in the film. The model for this scene is believed to be the fountain plaza in front of “The Sun’s Cave (Don Quixote’s Adventure Journey).”
The actual fountain is equipped with beautiful water effects, and you can sometimes see rainbows on sunny days. Visiting while recalling the movie scene will bring back that sense of urgency.
Holy Site Pilgrimage Point: Photographing buildings across the fountain will give you a composition close to the movie scene. Timing your shot when water spray rises will make for an even more impressive photograph.
Practical Guide for Shima Spain Village Holy Site Pilgrimage
Access Methods
By Train
- Approximately 13 minutes by direct bus from Kintetsu “Ugata Station”
- To Ugata Station: approximately 2 hours by limited express from Kintetsu Nagoya Station
- From Osaka Namba Station: approximately 2 hours 30 minutes by limited express
By Car
- Approximately 30 minutes from “Ise West IC” on the Ise Expressway
- Parking lot: Approximately 3,500 spaces available (Fee: 1,000 yen/day)
Operating Hours and Admission (Based on 2024)
Operating Hours
- 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM (varies by season)
- Closed: Irregular (check official website)
Admission Charges
- Passport (admission + attractions): Adults ¥5,400, teenagers (12-17 years) ¥4,400, children (3-11 years) ¥3,600
- 2-Day Passport: Adults ¥7,400, teenagers ¥6,000, children ¥4,900
※ Please check the official website for the latest information.
Efficient Holy Site Pilgrimage Route
Morning (Opening to 12:00 PM)
- Head to “Pyrenees” as soon as the park opens (less waiting time)
- Stroll and photograph around Gaudí Square
- Walk and photograph Santa Cruz Street
Afternoon (12:00 PM to 5:00 PM)
- After lunch, experience “The Battle of Alcázar ‘Adelante'”
- Photograph around Galleon Ship “Arna”
- Photograph Fountain Plaza (in front of The Sun’s Cave)
- Stroll around Granada’s Gate area
Evening to Night (During Illumination)
- Photograph around Bell of Happiness during illumination
- Photograph Granada’s Gate during illumination
- Watch the night parade if possible (on scheduled days only)
Best Timing for Photography
Recommended Times of Day
- Morning (9:30 AM to 11:00 AM): Few people, can photograph at leisure. Ideal for Pyrenees photography
- Daytime (11:00 AM to 3:00 PM): Can photograph the vibrant colors of buildings in bright light
- Late Afternoon (3:00 PM to 5:00 PM): Light streaming in at an angle beautifully illuminates buildings
- Night Operations (seasonal): The fantastical atmosphere of illumination is closest to the movie scene
Recommended Seasons
- Spring (March to May): Flowers bloom, comfortable weather
- Summer (June to August): Summer events and night operations available
- Fall (September to November): Beautiful contrast between autumn leaves and buildings
- Winter (December to February): Illumination events make night photography abundant
The Story of “The Assassin in Her Eyes” and Scenes at Shima Spain Village
Story Overview
A series of murders targeting police officers occurs, and Ran witnesses a crime scene and becomes a target of the culprit. Having lost her memory from shock, Ran is protected by Conan as he tries to corner the culprit. At the climax of the story, the place visited to help Ran recover her memory is “Tropical Land,” an amusement park modeled after Shima Spain Village.
Here, Ran recalls precious memories with Conan (Shinichi), and simultaneously, a final confrontation with the culprit unfolds. The tension-filled chase under the brilliant lights of the night parade is remembered as one of the most memorable scenes in the film.
Why Shima Spain Village Is Important
Tropical Land is set as the place where Conan (Shinichi) and Ran had their first date together, a memorable location. For the memory-stricken Ran, visiting this place becomes the key to recovering her memories. The fantastical and beautiful scenery of Shima Spain Village is depicted as a stage befitting awakening the precious memories hidden in Ran’s heart.
In the film, various attractions and structures within the park are used effectively to heighten the bond between Ran and Conan and their confrontation with the culprit. Actually visiting Shima Spain Village allows you to experience this touching story on a deeper level.
Trivia for Enjoying Your Holy Site Pilgrimage Even More
History and Characteristics of Shima Spain Village
Shima Spain Village is a complex resort facility themed around Spain that opened on April 22, 1994. It is composed of three facilities: the theme park “Parque España,” the hotel “Hotel Shima Spain Village,” and natural hot spring “Himawari no Yu.”
Different areas within the park are inspired by various regions of Spain, with full-fledged Spanish cuisine restaurants, flamenco shows, character parades, and diverse entertainment available.
Appearances in Works Other Than Conan
Shima Spain Village has been used as a location and model in several works besides “Detective Conan.” Its beautiful scenery and exotic atmosphere have fascinated many creators.
Dining Information in the Park
What to enjoy during your holy site pilgrimage is authentic Spanish cuisine.
Recommended Restaurants
- “Alhambra”: Offers full-course Spanish cuisine
- “La Paella”: A casual restaurant where you can enjoy the specialty paella
- “El Patio”: Light meals and tapas available
Takeout Gourmet
- Churros: A Spanish staple dessert
- Iberian Ham Hot Dog: Park-exclusive menu
- Sangria: A traditional Spanish beverage (non-alcoholic options available)
Gift and Merchandise Information
Park-Exclusive Merchandise
- Original character “Dal and Mul” merchandise
- Spanish crafts (pottery, tiles, fans, etc.)
- Original confections (churro-flavored cookies, etc.)
Recommended for Conan Fans
- Service to print photos taken within the park on the spot
- Original photo frames
Stay Overnight and Enjoy Holy Site Pilgrimage at Your Leisure
Hotel Shima Spain Village
The official hotel adjacent to the park offers priority early park entry 15 minutes before opening for overnight guests. With rooms recreating the Spanish atmosphere, you can rest comfortably after playing in the park.
Guest Privileges
- Priority park entry
- Free use of natural hot spring “Himawari no Yu”
- Accommodation packages including park tickets available
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Toba Aquarium
- Approximately 30 minutes by car from Shima Spain Village
- Japan’s largest aquarium
- Also appears in the ending of a Conan film
Ise Shrine
- Approximately 40 minutes by car from Shima Spain Village
- A representative shrine of Japan
- Many tourists visit as part of a combined sightseeing trip
Kashikojima
- Approximately 20 minutes by car from Shima Spain Village
- Beautiful views of Ago Bay
- Sightseeing boats and cruises are popular
Notes and Etiquette for Holy Site Pilgrimage
Photography Precautions
- Consideration for other guests: Avoid getting so absorbed in photography that you obstruct passage
- Prohibition of photography while riding attractions: For safety reasons, photography inside moving attractions is strictly prohibited
- Use of tripods: Tripod usage may be restricted during crowded times
- Commercial use: Filming for purposes other than personal use requires prior permission
Park Usage Etiquette
- Reserve spots for parades and shows only in designated areas
- Always dispose of trash in designated locations
- Smoking only in designated smoking areas
- No pets allowed (except guide dogs, etc.)
Advice for a Comfortable Experience
Packing List
- Comfortable walking shoes (the park is large and involves lots of walking)
- Sunscreen and hat (summer)
- Cardigan or wrap (air conditioning countermeasures and evening chill)
- Mobile battery (camera use drains batteries quickly)
- Drinks (heat stroke prevention)
Tips for Avoiding Crowds
- Weekday visits are recommended
- Spring break, summer vacation, Golden Week, and year-end/New Year are crowded
- Shortly after opening and before closing are relatively quiet
Summary: Experience the World of “The Assassin in Her Eyes”
Shima Spain Village, the stage for the theatrical Detective Conan film “The Assassin in Her Eyes,” is a precious holy site where you can actually experience scenes from the movie. The Pyrenees roller coaster, Gaudí Square, Granada’s Gate and Bell of Happiness that served as the stage for the night parade, and the fountain plaza of the climax—all the locations that adorned the memorable scenes of the film still exist unchanged today.
By watching the movie again before visiting, you can enjoy the holy site pilgrimage even more deeply. By walking the path that Ran and Conan ran through and seeing the same scenery they did, the emotion of the film will surely come back to you.
Shima Spain Village is not merely an amusement park, but a full-fledged theme park where you can experience Spanish culture and beauty. Not only Detective Conan fans but families and couples can thoroughly enjoy the facility.
Please use this guide as reference and experience the world of “The Assassin in Her Eyes” at Shima Spain Village. You will surely feel the emotion of seeing the scenery that could only be viewed in the movie spread out before your very eyes.