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Detective Conan Movie “Conspiracy on the Horizon (Strategy)” – A Guide to Sacred Sites and the Luxury Cruise Ship “Asuka II”
The theatrical film “Detective Conan: Conspiracy on the Horizon (Strategy)” is the 9th installment in the theatrical series, released in 2005. Set aboard a luxury cruise ship, the film achieved box office earnings of approximately 2.15 billion yen and captivated many fans. This article provides detailed explanations of the sacred sites and related spots featured in the work, particularly the relationship with Asuka and Nara, and information about the model ship that can actually be visited.
“Conspiracy on the Horizon” Work Overview
Basic Information
“Detective Conan: Conspiracy on the Horizon (Strategy)” is a theatrical anime film released on April 9, 2005. With a runtime of 107 minutes, its distinctive setting became a topic of discussion among the Detective Conan theatrical series.
Work Data:
- Release Date: April 9, 2005
- Runtime: 107 minutes
- Box Office Revenue: Approximately 2.15 billion yen
- Director: Taiichiro Yamamoto
- Screenplay: Kazushige Furuuchi
- Theme Song: Rina Aiuchi & Yuka Saegusa IN db “After Dreaming”
Story Overview
Through Sonoko’s arrangement, Conan, Ran, and the Junior Detective League are invited to the maiden voyage of the luxury cruise ship “Aphrodite,” sailing across the Pacific Ocean. While enjoying an elegant cruise at sea with many notable figures and politicians aboard, Sonoko is abducted and imprisoned by an unknown person during a game of hide-and-seek.
Inexplicable incidents believed to be connected to a maritime accident from 15 years ago occur one after another aboard the ship. Conan pursues the truth within the limited confines of the vessel and eventually faces a large-scale conspiracy involving the entire ship. The scene where Ran whispers “Such a beautiful sunset… I wish I could show this to Shinichi…” against the backdrop of the sun setting on the horizon has remained a memorable scene for many fans of the work.
The Work’s Characteristics and Highlights
The greatest feature of “Conspiracy on the Horizon” is that almost the entire film unfolds aboard a luxury cruise ship. This is an unusual setting even among the Detective Conan theatrical series, with strong elements of a locked-room mystery.
Charm Points of This Work:
- Thrilling developments in the confined space of a luxury cruise ship
- Mystery surrounding the truth of a maritime accident from 15 years ago
- Extensive scenes of Kogoro’s activities
- Touching romantic depictions of Ran and Conan (Shinichi)
- Impressive maritime action scenes
- Activities of the Junior Detective League
The Story’s Setting and Sacred Site Pilgrimage Possibilities
Details of the Setting
The setting of “Conspiracy on the Horizon” is the fictional luxury cruise ship “Aphrodite,” which departs from Tokyo and sails across the Pacific Ocean. While the work does not explicitly state specific ports of call or route details, the maiden voyage setting suggests a route heading from Tokyo Bay toward the Pacific Ocean.
The Unique Nature of Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Since the work is set entirely aboard a ship from beginning to end, a different approach is needed compared to traditional sacred site pilgrimages. Rather than visiting specific tourist attractions or buildings, “actually boarding the ship that served as the model for the Aphrodite” is an experiential form of sacred site pilgrimage that is possible.
This is the greatest characteristic of sacred site pilgrimage for “Conspiracy on the Horizon” and sets it apart from other Conan films. The ability to actually board a cruise ship and experience a luxurious voyage similar to that in the work will be a special memory for fans.
Regarding the Connection with Asuka (Nara)
While many people may associate the name “Asuka” with the Asuka region of Nara Prefecture, “Asuka” in this work refers to the luxury cruise ship “Asuka II” described later. However, when visiting Nara as part of a comprehensive sacred site pilgrimage of Conan works, a deeper understanding can be gained by learning about the origins of the name “Asuka II” and the historical background of Japan.
The Model Ship “Asuka II” of the Aphrodite
Basic Information about Asuka II
The luxury cruise ship “Aphrodite” that appears in the film was modeled after “Asuka II,” a representative luxury cruise ship of Japan. Asuka II is a full-fledged cruise ship operated by Nippon Yusen Kaisha and is known as Japan’s largest cruise ship.
Asuka II Specifications:
- Gross Tonnage: 50,142 tons
- Overall Length: 241 meters
- Overall Width: 29.6 meters
- Passenger Capacity: Approximately 872 people
- Number of Cabins: 436 rooms
- Entered Service: 2006 (Original Asuka entered service in 1991)
Similarities with Aphrodite
While the Aphrodite in the film is a fictional ship, much of its design, interior, and facilities are modeled after Asuka II.
Shared Features:
- Elegant white exterior
- Luxurious cabins and suites
- Spacious deck areas
- High-end restaurants and bars
- Pool and spa facilities
- Theater and lounges
- Stunning views from observation decks
The atmosphere and facilities depicted in the film faithfully reflect the characteristics of the actual Asuka II, allowing passengers to realistically experience the world of the movie.
History and Appeal of Asuka II
The original “Asuka” that preceded Asuka II entered service in 1991 and made significant contributions to the development of Japanese cruise culture. The current Asuka II has been in operation since 2006 and has received high praise as a Japanese-flagged luxury cruise ship.
The ship’s name “Asuka” is derived from the Asuka period, an important era in Japanese ancient history, reflecting the historical significance of the Asuka region in Nara Prefecture. In this way, one can feel a connection to Nara through the ship’s name.
How to Actually Board the Asuka II
Types of Cruise Plans
Asuka II offers various cruise plans that can be selected according to budget and schedule.
Main Cruise Types:
- Short Cruises (1 night 2 days to 3 nights 4 days)
- Ideal for first-time cruise experiences
- Can be enjoyed using weekends
- Sails around Tokyo Bay and the Izu Islands
- Price: From approximately 100,000 yen (varies by cabin type)
- Domestic Circle Cruises (4 nights 5 days to 7 nights 8 days)
- Calls at ports throughout Japan
- Routes to Hokkaido, Kyushu, Okinawa, and other areas
- Can also enjoy sightseeing at each port of call
- Price: From approximately 200,000 yen
- World Cruises (Long-term)
- Full-scale cruises visiting locations worldwide
- Plans lasting from several weeks to several months
- Price: From several million yen
Reservation Methods and Precautions
Reservation Process:
- Confirm Plans on Official Website
- Check the latest cruise schedule on the Nippon Yusen Cruise official website
- Compare departure dates, routes, and prices
- Select Cabin Type
- Inside cabin: No window, most economical
- Ocean view cabin: Window, with sea view
- Balcony cabin: With private balcony
- Suite: Highest level of space and facilities
- Apply for Reservation
- Online or telephone reservation
- Also possible through travel agencies
- Early reservation is recommended as popular cruises often sell out quickly
- Payment and Final Confirmation
- Payment of reservation deposit
- Final confirmation approximately one month before boarding
Important Notes:
- Confirm passport validity (if calling at foreign ports)
- Formal attire required for formal nights aboard ship
- Prepare motion sickness medication if necessary
- Check early booking discounts and special offers
- Confirm cancellation policy
Ways to Enjoy Boarding
Ways to Enjoy as a Conan Fan:
- Recreate Scenes from the Film
- View the sunset sinking into the horizon from the deck
- Explore various facilities aboard the ship
- Find photography spots
- Experiences Unique to Luxury Cruise Ships
- Enjoy full-course dinners
- Stargazing from the deck
- Relax at spas and pools
- Enjoy onboard events and shows
- Sightseeing at Ports of Call
- Shore excursions at each port
- Local specialty cuisine
- Souvenir shopping
Relationship with Nara and Sacred Sites in Surrounding Areas
Asuka Region (Nara Prefecture)
The Asuka region of Nara Prefecture, which gave its name to the ship, is an extremely important area in Japanese ancient history. From the late 6th century to the early 8th century, this region was the center of Japanese politics and culture.
Major Spots in the Asuka Region:
- Ishibutai Kofun
- The largest kofun (ancient burial mound) of the Asuka period
- Distinctive shape with exposed stone chamber
- Takamatsuzuka Kofun
- Famous for colorful wall paintings
- Mural of the “Asuka Beauty”
- Asuka-dera Temple
- Japan’s oldest formal temple
- Houses the Asuka Buddha
- Tachibana-dera Temple
- Believed to be the birthplace of Prince Shotoku
Nara as a Sacred Site in Conan Films
While “Conspiracy on the Horizon” itself is not set in Nara, Nara appears in other Conan works.
Conan Works Featuring Nara:
- “The Lost Ship in the Sky” (14th installment, 2010)
- “Goufuku-ji Temple” modeled after Kofuku-ji appears
- A statue theft incident in Nara is key to the story
- Kofuku-ji’s five-story pagoda and the Asura statue are depicted impressively
- “Crimson Love Letter” (21st installment, 2017)
- Osaka and Kyoto are main settings but Nara also appears partially
- Can visit tourist sites throughout the Kansai region
Sacred Site Pilgrimage Plan in Nara
One-Day Model Course:
Morning: Around Kofuku-ji
- 5 minutes on foot from Kintetsu Nara Station
- Kofuku-ji Temple (model of the Goufuku-ji in “The Lost Ship in the Sky”)
- Photograph the five-story pagoda
- View the Asura statue at the National Treasure Hall
Afternoon: Nara Park to Todai-ji Temple
- Interact with deer in Nara Park
- Visit the Great Buddha Hall at Todai-ji
- Pay respects at Kasuga Taisha Shrine
Evening: Move to Asuka Region (Optional)
- Travel by Kintetsu Railway to Kashihara Jingu Mae Station (approximately 40 minutes)
- Explore the Asuka region by rental bicycle
- Visit Ishibutai Kofun and Takamatsuzuka Kofun
Preparation to Maximize Your Cruise Experience
Packing List
Essential Items:
- Passport (if ports of call include foreign countries)
- Boarding pass / Reservation confirmation
- Credit card (for onboard transactions)
- Regular medications / Motion sickness medication
- Sunscreen / Sunglasses
- Camera / Smartphone
Clothing Items:
- Formal wear (for dinner)
- Men: Suit or jacket & necktie
- Women: Dress or formal suit
- Casual wear (for daytime)
- Swimsuit (for pool use)
- Comfortable walking shoes (for shore excursions)
- Something to layer (for air conditioning on the ship)
Helpful Items:
- Binoculars (for scenery viewing)
- Folding umbrella
- Mobile battery
- Small bag (for shore excursions)
- Conan merchandise (for photos)
Tips for Spending Time Aboard
Sample Daily Schedule:
Morning (7:00-10:00)
- Watch sunrise from the deck
- Enjoy breakfast at buffet or room service
- Participate in light exercise or yoga classes
Late Morning (10:00-12:00)
- Explore onboard facilities
- Enjoy pool or jacuzzi
- Read or relax on the deck
Lunch (12:00-14:00)
- Lunch (buffet or restaurant)
- Shore excursions on port days
Afternoon (14:00-17:00)
- Spa or massage
- Participate in onboard activities
- Shopping
Evening (17:00-19:00)
- Watch sunset from the deck (Conan scene recreation!)
- Change into formal wear
Night (19:00-23:00)
- Full-course dinner
- Theater show
- Cocktails at the bar
- Stargazing
Recommended Photography Spots
Photography Points Aboard Ship:
- Observation Deck
- Spectacular views of the horizon and sunset
- Perfect for recreating scenes from the film
- Beautiful sunrise in early morning
- Grand Lobby
- Luxurious interior
- Ideal for commemorative photos on the staircase
- Pool Deck
- Resort-like atmosphere
- Contrast of blue sky and sea
- Cabin Balcony
- Private sea views
- Nighttime starry sky photography
Photography Tips:
- Prepare 30 minutes before sunset
- Secure the camera against ship movement
- Views from bow and stern are also attractive
- Formal night is an opportunity for commemorative photos
Combination Plans with Other Conan Movie Sacred Sites
Sacred Site Pilgrimage in the Kansai Region
While Asuka II’s home port is Yokohama, some cruises also call at Kobe or Osaka ports. It is also recommended to visit other Conan film sacred sites before or after the cruise in the Kansai region.
Conan Sacred Sites in Kansai:
- “Crimson Love Letter” (Osaka/Kyoto)
- Togetsukyo Bridge (Arashiyama, Kyoto)
- Yomiuri TV (Osaka)
- Osaka Castle
- Satsuki-do (confectionery shop)
- “The Lost Ship in the Sky” (Nara)
- Kofuku-ji Temple
- Nara Park
- “Crossroad in the Ancient Capital” (Kyoto)
- Kiyomizu-dera Temple
- Gion
- Kamogawa River
3 Nights 4 Days Model Plan
Day 1: Osaka/Kobe
- Morning: Osaka Castle, area around Yomiuri TV
- Afternoon: Exploration of Kobe Port area
- Evening: Board Asuka II (if departing from Kobe Port)
Day 2: Full Cruise Experience
- Spend the entire day aboard
- Participate in various activities
- Watch sunset and observe starry sky
Day 3: Port of Call Sightseeing
- Shore excursion at port of call
- Return to ship in evening for dinner
Day 4: Kyoto/Nara
- Morning: Disembark and travel to Kyoto
- Afternoon: Sightseeing in Nara, including Kofuku-ji Temple
- Evening: Begin return journey
Tokyo Departure Plan
2 Nights 3 Days Short Cruise + Tokyo Sightseeing:
Day 1: Tokyo Sightseeing
- Morning: Tokyo Tower (“The Fifteenth Target”)
- Afternoon: Odaiba area
- Evening: Move to Yokohama Port and board ship
Day 2: Cruise
- Entire day at sea
- Heading toward Izu Islands
Day 3: Return to Port
- Morning: Return to Yokohama Port
- Afternoon: Yokohama sightseeing (Minato Mirai, Red Brick Warehouse)
Conclusion: The Charm of “Conspiracy on the Horizon” Sacred Site Pilgrimage
A Special Experience Unlike Other Conan Films
The sacred site pilgrimage of “Detective Conan: Conspiracy on the Horizon” is a special experience that differs from traditional sacred site pilgrimages. The greatest attraction is the ability to actually board a luxury cruise ship and experience a voyage similar to that in the film, rather than visiting a specific location.
Special Aspects of This Sacred Site Pilgrimage:
- Experiential Sacred Site Pilgrimage
- Can recreate scenes from the film
- Experience the elegance of an actual cruise
- Becomes an unforgettable memory
- Asuka II, an Authentic Luxury Cruise Ship
- The actual ship that served as the model for the film
- Japan’s premier cruise experience
- Facilities meticulously recreated
- Recreation of the Iconic Sunset on the Horizon
- Ran’s line “I wish I could show this to Shinichi”
- Actually viewing the sunset sinking into the horizon
- Capturing memories through photos and video
- Combination with Other Sacred Sites
- Exploration of the Asuka region in Nara
- Visiting other Conan sacred sites in the Kansai region
- Creating a fulfilling itinerary
Key Points for Successful Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Planning Stage:
- Early cruise booking (popular plans sell out quickly)
- Cabin selection according to budget
- Adjusting schedule including pre- and post-trip sightseeing
- Watching and reviewing the film beforehand
Implementation Stage:
- Photography with awareness of film scenes
- Experiencing all onboard facilities
- Definitely go to the deck during sunset time
- Be considerate to other passengers
Recording and Sharing:
- Posts on social media (#ConanSacredSitePilgrimage #ConspiracyOnTheHorizon)
- Organization of photos and videos
- Experience sharing through blogs and reviews
Feeling the Connection with Asuka (Nara)
The Asuka region of Nara Prefecture, which inspired the ship’s name “Asuka,” is the origin of Japanese history and culture. The name Asuka II carries respect for Japanese tradition and dignity. By combining the cruise experience with a visit to the Asuka region in Nara, one can understand the deeper meaning of the ship’s name and create a more enriching sacred site pilgrimage.
Benefits of Visiting the Asuka Region:
- Learn about Japanese history
- Feel ancient romance at heritage sites
- Refresh yourself in peaceful rural scenery
- Understand the origin of the ship’s name
Final Thoughts
The sacred site pilgrimage of “Detective Conan: Conspiracy on the Horizon” is not merely sightseeing tourism but a special journey where you can experience the entire world of the film. An elegant cruise aboard a luxury ship is an escape from everyday life and should become a memorable experience not only for Conan fans but for anyone.
Why not spend time gazing at the sunset sinking into the horizon, thinking of those you cherish just as Ran does? A cruise experience aboard Asuka II will surely add a special page to your life story.
By visiting the Asuka region of Nara along with the cruise, you can touch the origins of the ship’s name and Japanese history, creating a sacred site pilgrimage with greater depth. Please use this article as a reference and embark on a journey to experience the world of “Conspiracy on the Horizon.”
Reservations and Inquiries:
- Nippon Yusen Cruise Official Website
- Major Travel Agencies
- Asuka II Call Center
May your sacred site pilgrimage be a wonderful journey!
