Tatsuki Fujimoto’s mega-hit manga “Chainsaw Man” captivates many fans with its unique worldview and story development. The setting for this work is centered around the Shinjuku Ward area of Tokyo. In this article, we will provide detailed explanations of real-world spots and model locations that appear in the work, and introduce an efficient sacred site pilgrimage route.
The Relationship Between Chainsaw Man and Shinjuku
The story of “Chainsaw Man” unfolds with modern Tokyo as its stage. In particular, Shinjuku Ward appears as an important setting multiple times throughout the work, with the townscape of Shinjuku depicted in various scenes ranging from daily scenes of the protagonist Denji and his companions to combat scenes.
Tatsuki Fujimoto is known for depicting real-world landscapes in meticulous detail, and the streetscape of Shinjuku is also drawn based on actual scenery. As a result, for fans, Shinjuku has become a precious sacred site where they can experience the world of “Chainsaw Man.”
Characteristics of Shinjuku’s Depiction in the Work
The work portrays Shinjuku’s many facets, including its busy districts, office building areas, and residential neighborhoods. In particular, the crowded scenes around Kabukicho and the landscape of high-rise building clusters serve as important elements in creating the work’s contemporary and urban atmosphere.
Additionally, the brilliant neon signs of Shinjuku at night and the hustle and bustle of daytime are carefully depicted, and the changes in the town’s appearance according to time of day add to the realism of the setting and enhance the charm of the work.
Major Sacred Sites Within Shinjuku Ward
Shinjuku Station Area
Shinjuku Station East Exit
Shinjuku Station, Japan’s largest terminal station, appears as an important location in the work. In particular, the crowded scenes around the east exit are depicted as a transit point when Denji and his friends head out on missions.
- Access: Just below Shinjuku Station on various JR and private railway lines
- Points of Interest: The plaza in front of the station, the plaza in front of Alta, etc.
- Shooting Points: The view from the plaza after exiting the east exit ticket gates
In Front of Shinjuku Alta
The area in front of Alta, a famous meeting spot in Shinjuku, appears in scenes where crowds of people pass through in the work. This spot, marked by its impressive large-scale video display, symbolizes what makes Shinjuku distinctive.
Kabukicho Area
Kabukicho 1-chome Street
Kabukicho, known as Japan’s largest entertainment district, has an atmosphere perfect for the worldview of “Chainsaw Man.” The nighttime streetscape with glowing neon captures the urban and decadent atmosphere of the work.
- Characteristics: Restaurants and entertainment facilities are densely packed
- Depiction in the Work: Nighttime streetscape, neon sign scenery
- Notes When Visiting: There is heavy foot traffic at night, so please be considerate of those around you when taking photos
TOHO Cinemas Shinjuku
The Shinjuku Toho Building, famous for its Godzilla head, is one of Shinjuku’s landmarks. Its distinctive exterior may appear in the backgrounds of the work.
West Shinjuku Area
Shinjuku High-Rise Building Cluster
The ultra-high-rise building cluster in West Shinjuku is a landscape that symbolizes Tokyo’s urban scenery. In the work, these building clusters are sometimes depicted as backgrounds in combat scenes with demons.
- Representative Buildings: Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, Shinjuku Sumitomo Building, Shinjuku Center Building, etc.
- Photography Spots: Views from the Metropolitan Government Building observation deck, angles looking up at the building cluster
- Access: Exit Toei Oedo Line “Tochomae Station”
Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
The Metropolitan Government Building, the administrative center of Tokyo, is a striking building with its distinctive twin towers. From its observation decks, you can overlook the Shinjuku streetscape and get a panoramic view of the work’s setting.
- Opening Hours: 9:30–17:30 (South Observation Deck), 9:30–23:00 (North Observation Deck, subject to change by season)
- Admission: Free
- Closed Days: Regular maintenance days (irregular)
Around Shinjuku Gyoen
Shinjuku Gyoen
Shinjuku Gyoen, known as an oasis in the urban area, may appear in scenes where characters take brief moments of rest in the work. The vast gardens create moments of serenity between the work’s intense developments.
- Opening Hours: 9:00–16:30 (subject to seasonal changes)
- Admission Fee: 500 yen for general admission, 250 yen for students
- Closed Days: Every Monday (or the following day if Monday is a holiday), year-end and New Year
Sacred Site Pilgrimage Model Courses
Half-Day Course (Approximately 4 hours)
9:00 Start at Shinjuku Station East Exit
Start at Shinjuku Station’s east exit. Experience the crowds depicted in the work and feel the atmosphere of the series.
↓ 5 minutes on foot
9:15 In Front of Shinjuku Alta
Take a commemorative photo in front of Alta, a famous meeting spot. The large video display and the flow of people embody Shinjuku’s distinctive character.
↓ 10 minutes on foot
9:30 Kabukicho 1-chome Street
Take a stroll through Kabukicho during daytime. Enjoy the townscape presenting a different face than it does at night. Don’t forget to check out the Godzilla head.
↓ 15 minutes on foot
10:30 Shinjuku Gyoen
Escape the urban bustle and refresh yourself in the verdant Shinjuku Gyoen. Immerse yourself in the work’s worldview while exploring the gardens.
↓ 20 minutes on foot
12:00 West Shinjuku High-Rise Building District
Visit the high-rise building cluster, a symbol of Shinjuku. The views from the Metropolitan Government Building observation deck are also recommended.
13:00 Finish
Full-Day Course (Approximately 8 hours)
In addition to the half-day course, a more fulfilling sacred site pilgrimage is possible by adding the following spots:
- Shinjuku 3-chome Area: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the bustling district
- Shinjuku Station South Exit Area: Takashimaya, Busta Shinjuku, etc.
- Kabukicho at Night: Experience its true form with glowing neon (with safety precautions)
Practical Information for Sacred Site Pilgrimages
Access Methods
Access by Train
Shinjuku Station is a massive terminal station served by the following lines:
- JR Lines: Yamanote Line, Chuo Line, Sobu Line, Saikyo Line, Shonan-Shinjuku Line
- Private Railways: Odakyu Line, Keio Line, Seibu-Shinjuku Line
- Subway: Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line, Fukutoshin Line, Toei Shinjuku Line, Toei Oedo Line
Access from Airports
- From Narita Airport: Approximately 80 minutes by Narita Express
- From Haneda Airport: Approximately 40 minutes via Keikyu Line and Yamanote Line, or approximately 50 minutes by limousine bus
Precautions for Pilgrimages
Photography Etiquette
- In public spaces, be mindful of the people around you when taking photos
- Obtain permission in advance before photographing on private property or inside shops
- Use tripods only in locations that won’t obstruct pedestrian traffic
Safety Considerations
- When visiting busy districts such as Kabukicho, exercise particular caution, especially at night
- Be careful to manage your valuables properly
- Avoid solo nighttime pilgrimages; it is recommended to travel in groups whenever possible
Choosing Times of Day
- Morning to Afternoon: Ideal for visiting Shinjuku Gyoen and the high-rise building district
- Evening: The scenery of the building cluster at sunset is beautiful
- Night: Kabukicho’s neon truly shines (with safety considerations)
Recommended Items to Bring
- Smartphone/Camera: For recording sacred sites
- Mobile battery: In preparation for extended pilgrimages
- Comfortable, easy-to-walk-in shoes: Walking is the primary mode of travel in Shinjuku
- Map app: To navigate the complex Shinjuku area efficiently
- Beverages: For heat stroke prevention, especially in summer
Chainsaw Man-Related Spots Around Shinjuku
Animate Shinjuku
The Animate Shinjuku store, located within walking distance of Shinjuku Station’s east exit, has a wide selection of “Chainsaw Man”-related goods.
- Address: Shinjuku Marui Annex, 3-1-26 Shinjuku, Shinjuku Ward, Tokyo
- Business Hours: 11:00–20:00 (subject to change by season)
- Features: Extensive selection of limited-edition goods and collaboration items
Toranoana Shinjuku Store
The Toranoana Shinjuku store, which sells doujinshi and related books, is also a must-visit spot for fans.
Cafes and Restaurants in Shinjuku
Recommended cafes and restaurants in Shinjuku to visit during your sacred site pilgrimage:
- Chain Cafes: Starbucks, Tully’s, and others located throughout the area
- Family Restaurants: Convenient for rest and meals
- Shinjuku-Specific Cuisine: A diverse selection including ramen, izakayas, and international cuisine
Chainsaw Man Anime and Shinjuku
The TV anime “Chainsaw Man,” which began airing in October 2022, has become a topic of discussion for its meticulously depicted Tokyo streetscape. With high-quality animation by production studio MAPPA, Shinjuku’s scenery has been recreated with even greater realism.
Depiction of Shinjuku in the Anime Version
The anime version is characterized by background artwork that resembles live-action footage. The Shinjuku streetscape has also been carefully recreated based on actual location scouting, with attention to detail. In particular:
- The texture of building clusters and glass reflections
- The light expression of nighttime neon signs
- The movement of crowds
These are depicted with high quality, and when visiting sacred sites, there is joy in experiencing “the landscape seen in the anime” in person.
Shinjuku’s Charm Throughout the Seasons
Spring (March–May)
The cherry blossoms at Shinjuku Gyoen reach their peak. You can enjoy a calm atmosphere different from the work’s worldview.
- Points of Interest: Cherry blossoms at Shinjuku Gyoen, spring flowers
- Temperature: Around 10–20 degrees Celsius, pleasant weather
Summer (June–August)
A season when the heat of the city is intense, but there is a vibrancy unique to summer Shinjuku.
- Notes: Heat stroke prevention is essential; drink water frequently
- Points of Interest: Summer events, beer gardens, etc.
Autumn (September–November)
The optimal season for pilgrimages. Comfortable weather makes extended walks pleasant.
- Points of Interest: Autumn foliage at Shinjuku Gyoen, autumn events
- Temperature: Around 15–25 degrees Celsius, easy to walk in
Winter (December–February)
A season when illuminations are beautiful. Shinjuku glows even brighter at night.
- Points of Interest: Shinjuku Southern Terrace illuminations, winter night views
- Notes: Take proper warm clothing precautions
Tips for Enjoying Sacred Site Pilgrimages More
Preparation of Original Works and Anime
Reviewing the original manga and anime before your pilgrimage allows for deeper enjoyment. In particular, check out scenes where Shinjuku appears.
Information Gathering via Social Media
Searching for hashtags such as “#Chainsaw Man Sacred Site Pilgrimage” and “#Chainsaw Man Shinjuku” on Twitter and Instagram will reveal other fans’ visit records and new discoveries.
Creating a Pilgrimage Map
By pre-marking spots you want to visit on Google Maps or similar, you can navigate more efficiently.
Pilgrimages with Companions
Experiencing a pilgrimage with fellow fans of the same work allows you to share discoveries and emotions, making for a more memorable experience.
Related Spots in Tokyo Other Than Shinjuku
The setting of “Chainsaw Man” is not limited to Shinjuku; various locations throughout Tokyo appear in the work.
Shibuya Ward
The area around Shibuya Station and the Shibuya streetscape may also be depicted in the work. It is conveniently accessible from Shinjuku by train in about 10 minutes.
Minato Ward
Upscale areas such as Roppongi and Akasaka may also appear as settings in the work.
Chiyoda Ward
Areas with diverse sides of Tokyo, such as Akihabara and Kanda, are also worth checking out.
Conclusion: Experience the World of Chainsaw Man in Shinjuku
Tokyo’s Shinjuku Ward, the setting for “Chainsaw Man,” is a precious place where you can actually experience the worldview of the work. The crowds around Shinjuku Station, the brilliant neon of Kabukicho, the high-rise building cluster of West Shinjuku, and the tranquility of Shinjuku Gyoen—all of these are elements that form the charm of the work.
Through sacred site pilgrimages, you can see the landscapes you saw in the manga and anime in person, deepening your understanding of and affection for the work. Using the spots, courses, and precautions introduced in this article, please enjoy a safe and fulfilling sacred site pilgrimage.
Shinjuku reveals a completely different face depending on whether it is day or night, weekday or weekend. By visiting multiple times at different times of day and seasons, you will be able to discover the multifaceted appeal of Shinjuku as the setting for the work.
“Chainsaw Man” fans, please spend a special time immersed in the world of the work in Shinjuku. Remember to follow etiquette and be considerate of those around you, and create wonderful memories of your sacred site pilgrimage.
