“Oshi no Ko,” a hugely popular work by Akasaka Aka and Yokoyama Mengo, has captivated numerous fans as a realistic story depicting the behind-the-scenes of the entertainment industry. With anime adaptation, live-action drama adaptation, and film adaptation decided one after another, Minato Ward, Tokyo serves an important role as the setting for this work that continues to generate buzz. This article provides a thorough introduction to pilgrimage sites related to “Oshi no Ko” centered around Minato Ward.
What Kind of Work is “Oshi no Ko”?
“Oshi no Ko” is a manga series that ran in “Weekly Young Jump” from 2020 to 2024. The original work is by Akasaka Aka, known for “Kaguya-sama: Love is War,” with illustrations by Yokoyama Mengo.
The story begins with a shocking premise: Goro, who worked as an obstetrician-gynecologist in a regional city, is reincarnated as the twin children, Aqua and Ruby, of his favorite idol “Hoshino Ai.” Following the tragedy of Ai’s death while shining as an idol, Aqua confronts the darkness of the entertainment industry, while Ruby pursues her dream of becoming an idol—the series is characterized by its unique narrative structure that interweaves the realistic face of the entertainment industry, familial love, and suspense elements.
The anime first season aired in 2023, and the second season also aired in 2024. Furthermore, a live-action drama version has been distributed on Amazon Prime Video, with film and theatrical adaptations also decided, expanding the series across multiple media.
Why Minato Ward, Tokyo Became the Setting for “Oshi no Ko”
Minato Ward, Tokyo is one of the centers of Japan’s entertainment and entertainment industry. Areas such as Roppongi, Akasaka, Aoyama, and Odaiba are concentrated with television stations, talent agencies, luxury restaurants, and event venues—making it an ideal location to express the world of the entertainment industry depicted in “Oshi no Ko.”
The Roppongi area in particular possesses a unique atmosphere where the glamour of a night district coexists with intersecting business and entertainment. Numerous real spots in Minato Ward serve as models for locations that appear in the work, such as after-party venues and live houses where celebrities gather.
Detailed Pilgrimage Sites for “Oshi no Ko” in Minato Ward, Tokyo
CEDAR THE CHOP HOUSE & BAR
Location: 2F, Rem Roppongi Building, 7-14-4 Roppongi, Minato Ward, Tokyo 106-0032
Access: 1-minute walk from Exit 4a, Roppongi Station, Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line
The model for the after-party venue of the drama “Kyou Ama” (Today is Sweet) starring Aqua and Arima Kana, which appeared in anime episode 4. An American dining restaurant located in the heart of Roppongi, where you can actually enjoy a luxurious atmosphere and authentic cuisine.
The interior is characterized by subdued lighting and modern décor, allowing visitors to experience the atmosphere of the after-party scene in the work. When visiting for a pilgrimage, advance reservations are recommended. Please check the official website for business hours and regular holidays.
Odaiba Seaside Park
Location: 1-4 Daiba, Minato Ward, Tokyo 135-0091
Access: 3-minute walk from Odaiba Seaside Park Station (Yurikamome), 10-minute walk from Tokyo Teleport Station (Rinkai Line)
The model location for the confession scene of “Ima Gachi” (Today is Sweet, Tomorrow is Spicy) depicted in the anime. A beautiful landscape overlooking Tokyo Bay spreads out, and the sunset view with the Rainbow Bridge in the background is especially romantic.
In the work, it is depicted as the stage for a quiet and emotional scene, making it a must-see spot for fans. The park is spacious, and you can immerse yourself in the world of the work while strolling. The time period from late afternoon to night is particularly ideal for recreating scenes from the work.
MaxEll Aqua Park Shinagawa
Location: Shinagawa Prince Hotel, 4-10-30 Takanawa, Minato Ward, Tokyo 108-8611
Access: 2-minute walk from Takanawa口 (South Exit), Shinagawa Station (JR/Keikyu)
An aquarium that was used as a filming location for the live-action drama version of “Oshi no Ko.” In behind-the-scenes photos, Sakurai Kaion playing Aqua and Kayashima Mizuki are shown filming inside the aquarium.
This urban entertainment facility is characterized by production that utilizes cutting-edge technology, with attractions including dolphin shows and jellyfish exhibits. It is popular not only with “Oshi no Ko” fans but also as a dating spot.
Tokyo Dome
Location: 1-3-61 Koraku, Bunkyo Ward, Tokyo 112-0004
Access: 5-minute walk from Suidobashi Station (JR/Toei Subway)
Though strictly outside Minato Ward, this is an important spot depicted in the work as Hoshino Ai’s concert venue. As a representative dome concert venue in Japan where many idols and artists hold concerts, it can be said to symbolize the world of “Oshi no Ko.”
This location, symbolic of the era when Ai shone as a top idol, becomes the stage for a scene that serves as an important turning point in the story. By actually participating in concerts and events, you can feel the concert scenes in the work more realistically.
Roppongi Hills and Surrounding Areas
Location: 6-chome Roppongi, Minato Ward, Tokyo
Access: Direct connection to Roppongi Station (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
Roppongi, depicted in the work as an area where talent agencies and filming studios are concentrated, with Roppongi Hills appearing as its symbolic location in the background. The high-rise buildings and refined streetscape simultaneously express both the glamour of the entertainment industry and the harshness of business.
From the observation deck “Tokyo City View,” you can get a panoramic view of Tokyo’s cityscape, making it ideal for grasping the overall setting of the work.
There’s Still More! Existing “Oshi no Ko” Spots
Akasaka Area
Akasaka, Minato Ward is known as an area where television stations are concentrated. As the center of the entertainment industry, such as TBS Akasaka Sacas, the atmosphere is reflected in the work. This area, where drama filming and variety show recording happen on a daily basis, is an indispensable place to experience the world of “Oshi no Ko.”
Aoyama and Omotesando Areas
The Aoyama and Omotesando areas, lined with luxury boutiques and cafés, are also places where celebrity sightings are frequent. There are numerous stylish cafés and restaurants where characters in the work might visit privately.
Around Shiba Park
The area around Shiba Park, overlooking Tokyo Tower, also appears in the work’s background as a landscape representative of Tokyo. A park with abundant greenery amid the urban landscape is sometimes depicted as a place of brief respite for characters.
What Route is Recommended for “Oshi no Ko” Pilgrimage?
Here are recommended model routes to efficiently tour pilgrimage sites centered on Minato Ward, Tokyo.
Half-Day Course (4–5 hours)
- Start at Shinagawa Station: MaxEll Aqua Park Shinagawa (1–2 hours)
- Move: To Odaiba by Yurikamome (approximately 20 minutes)
- Odaiba Seaside Park (1 hour): Tour the confession scene pilgrimage site
- Move: To Roppongi by Yurikamome/Subway (approximately 30 minutes)
- CEDAR THE CHOP HOUSE & BAR: Lunch or dinner (1–2 hours)
- Around Roppongi Hills: Street walk/Observation deck (1 hour)
Full-Day Course (7–8 hours)
In addition to the half-day course above:
- Akasaka area tour (1 hour)
- Aoyama and Omotesando areas café break (1 hour)
- Extend to Tokyo Dome (Bunkyo Ward) (2 hours including travel)
Pilgrimage Pointers
- Photography etiquette: At restaurants and public facilities, be considerate so as not to inconvenience other customers
- Confirm business hours: Especially for restaurants, confirm operating hours and days closed in advance
- IC transit card: Have a Suica or PASMO card ready for smooth travel
- Comfortable shoes: Minato Ward is unexpectedly large, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended
The Cast of “Oshi no Ko” and Their Connection to Minato Ward
Hoshino Ai
The top idol holding the key to the story. She was active in the heart of the entertainment industry in Roppongi and Akasaka, and Minato Ward was the stage of her brilliant career, including a successful concert at Tokyo Dome.
Hoshino Aqua (Aquamarine)
The protagonist reborn as Ai’s son. Entering the entertainment industry as an actor, scenes of him visiting restaurants in Minato Ward for drama after-parties are depicted. For him, who pursues the truth behind his mother’s death, Minato Ward is a place where important clues are hidden.
Hoshino Ruby
Reborn as Ai’s daughter and aspiring to follow her mother’s path as an idol. As a member of B-Komachi, the locations like live houses and event venues in Minato Ward are her stage of dreams.
Arima Kana
A former child prodigy actress who pursues acting alongside Aqua. CEDAR THE CHOP HOUSE & BAR, which appeared in the “Kyou Ama” after-party scene, is a place symbolizing an important milestone in her career.
Location Information for Live-Action Drama and Film Versions in Minato Ward
New locations different from the anime version appear in the live-action drama version “Oshi no Ko” distributed in 2024.
Characteristics of the Drama Version
In the live-action drama version distributed on Amazon Prime Video, Akira Sakurai plays Aqua and Asuka Saito plays Ruby. Numerous actual entertainment-related facilities and luxury restaurants in Minato Ward were used to recreate a realistic entertainment industry atmosphere.
Film Developments
A film adaptation has also been decided, and additional locations are expected. Minato Ward is likely to remain an important filming location, so keep an eye on future information.
“Oshi no Ko”-Related Events and Minato Ward
Exhibitions and Events
In the past, “TV Anime ‘Oshi no Ko’ Exhibition: Lies and Ai” was held at Ikebukuro PARCO and other large-scale exhibitions have been implemented. Pop-up stores and collaboration cafés are likely to be held in Minato Ward in the future.
Theatrical Version
“Theatrical ‘Oshi no Ko’ 2.5-Dimensional Stage Edition” has also been performed, expanding the series as stage art. When performances are held at theaters in the Tokyo metropolitan area, venues around Minato Ward may be used.
Charms of Minato Ward That Can Be Enjoyed Together With Pilgrimage
Gourmet Spots
Minato Ward is one of Japan’s premier gourmet areas. In Roppongi, Azabu, and Akasaka, there are diverse dining options ranging from Michelin-starred restaurants to casual cafés. You can enjoy authentic cuisine during your pilgrimage.
Shopping
Major commercial facilities abound, such as Roppongi Hills, Midtown, and Omotesando Hills. Anime shops and bookstores handling “Oshi no Ko” merchandise are scattered throughout.
Cultural Facilities
World-class art museums and museums gather, such as the National Art Center, Mori Art Museum, and Suntory Museum of Art. You can spend a fulfilling day combining pilgrimage and cultural experiences.
Precautions When Visiting “Oshi no Ko” Pilgrimage Sites
Consideration for Privacy
At restaurants and commercial facilities, be mindful of other patrons’ privacy, avoiding loud conversations and excessive photography.
Compliance With Facility Rules
Each facility has its own rules. Be careful not to enter photography-prohibited areas or restricted zones.
Consideration During Crowded Times
Especially on weekends and holidays, places can be crowded with tourists. Avoid lengthy stays or reserving spots, and maintain a spirit of consideration.
Caution When Posting on SNS
When posting about your pilgrimage on SNS, be mindful so that other people don’t appear in photos, and also be careful about revealing location information.
Conclusion: The Deep Connection Between “Oshi no Ko” and Minato Ward, Tokyo
In the story of “Oshi no Ko,” Minato Ward is not merely a background but an important stage device that reflects the realistic face of the entertainment industry. The glamorous night view of Roppongi, the open seaside of Odaiba, the urban entertainment of Shinagawa—these real locations give depth and persuasiveness to the stories of Ai, Aqua, and Ruby.
“Oshi no Ko” unfolds across various media: anime, drama, film, and theater. What is common to all of them is the unique charm of Minato Ward as a setting. Through pilgrimage, by more deeply understanding the world of the work and actually experiencing the paths walked by the characters, your affection for “Oshi no Ko” will deepen further.
When visiting the spots introduced in this article, remember to show respect for the work and practice good etiquette, keeping in mind consideration for other visitors and local residents. Doing so will make the “Oshi no Ko” pilgrimage a better experience for both fans and the community.
Find your own unique “Oshi no Ko” experience in Minato Ward, Tokyo. At the locations that served as the setting for the story, relive the emotion of the work and make new discoveries. A journey awaits you.
