【Detective Conan】The Raven Chaser – Tokyo Tower (Tokyo)
The theatrical version of “Detective Conan: The Raven Chaser” is the 13th theatrical film released in 2009, which achieved box office revenue of 3.5 billion yen and has become a popular work. Tokyo Tower, which appears as the stage decorating the climax of this work, has become an unmissable sacred site pilgrimage spot for Conan fans.
This article comprehensively introduces information necessary for sacred site pilgrimage, from the appearance scenes of Tokyo Tower in “The Raven Chaser” to actual visiting methods, photography spots, and related facilities in the surrounding area.
The Importance of Tokyo Tower in “The Raven Chaser”
Climactic Scenes Playing a Central Role in the Work
In “The Raven Chaser,” Tokyo Tower is depicted as the most important stage in the story. It becomes the setting for the final confrontation with Irish, a member of the Black Organization, and tense scenes unfold as Conan faces off against him.
What is particularly impressive is the night view seen from Tokyo Tower’s observation deck and the chase scenes inside the tower. At a height of 333 meters, Tokyo’s symbol functions as a suspenseful stage set, leaving an unforgettable impression on the work.
Specific Appearance Scenes in the Work
Tokyo Tower appears in the following important scenes:
- Confrontation scene at the observation deck: The final confrontation between Irish and Conan takes place
- Exterior shots: Beautiful imagery of Tokyo Tower illuminated at night
- Interior staircases: Tense chase scenes unfold
- Tower surroundings: Scenes where police and the Detective Boys gather
These scenes faithfully recreate the structure and characteristics of the actual Tokyo Tower, allowing visitors to experience the realism of the work.
Tokyo Tower Basic Information
Facility Overview
Official Name: Nippon Denpa To (Commonly known as Tokyo Tower)
Location: 4-2-8 Shibakoen, Minato Ward, Tokyo 105-0011
Height: 333 meters
Completion Date: December 23, 1958 (Showa 33)
Designers: Taku Naito, Nikken Sekkei
Tokyo Tower was beloved as Japan’s tallest structure until Tokyo Skytree was completed. Even today, it attracts approximately 3 million visitors annually as a landmark of Tokyo.
Types and Prices of Observation Decks
Tokyo Tower has two observation decks:
Main Deck (150 meters)
- Adults (high school students and above): 1,200 yen
- Children (elementary and middle school students): 700 yen
- Infants (ages 4 and up): 500 yen
Top Deck Tour (250 meters)
- Adults (high school students and above): 3,000 yen
- Children (elementary and middle school students): 2,000 yen
- Infants (ages 4 and up): 1,400 yen
※Prices are current as of 2024. Please check the official website for the latest information.
Business Hours
- Main Deck: 9:00 AM～10:30 PM (Last entry 10:00 PM)
- Top Deck Tour: 9:00 AM～10:15 PM (Last tour 9:30 PM～10:15 PM)
- Open year-round
Business hours may change during special events, so it is recommended to check the official website before visiting.
Complete Access Guide
Access by Train
Multiple stations near Tokyo Tower provide convenient access:
Toei Oedo Line “Akabane-bashi Station”
- Approximately 5 minutes walk from the Akabane-bashi exit
- The closest station with convenient access
- Head straight from the ticket gate and cross National Route 1
Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line “Kamiyacho Station”
- Approximately 7 minutes walk from Exit 1
- Head south along Sakurada-dori toward Tokyo Tower
Toei Mita Line “Onarimon Station”
- Approximately 6 minutes walk from Exit A1
- Head south along Hibiya-dori
Toei Mita Line “Shibakoen Station”
- Approximately 10 minutes walk from Exit A4
- Route passing through Shibakoen offers good scenery
JR Yamanote Line・Keihin-Tohoku Line “Hamamatsucho Station”
- Approximately 15 minutes walk from the North Exit
- Some distance away, but convenient for transfers at a major station
Access by Bus
Toei Bus
- Get off at “Tokyo Tower” stop, immediate access
- Service from Shibuya, Shimbashi, Shinagawa, and other locations
Access by Car and Parking
Access from Metropolitan Expressway
- Approximately 5 minutes from the “Shibakoen Exit” on the Metropolitan Expressway Chuo Loop
- Approximately 7 minutes from the “Shibakoen Exit” on the Metropolitan Expressway Line 2 Meguro Line
Parking Information
- Tokyo Tower Parking Center
- Capacity: approximately 150 vehicles
- Price: 600 yen for the first hour, then 300 yen per 30 minutes
- Business hours: 9:00 AM～11:00 PM
Parking becomes congested on weekends and holidays, so public transportation is recommended.
Sacred Site Pilgrimage | Photography Spot Guide
Photography Points at the Main Deck (150m)
The Main Deck, which served as the stage for the climactic scene of “The Raven Chaser,” is the most important sacred site pilgrimage spot.
Recommended Photography Points:
- Northern Observation Area
- View of Tokyo Skytree and the Asakusa area
- Can recreate scenes where Conan overlooks the Tokyo cityscape
- Southern Observation Area
- Night views of Rainbow Bridge and Odaiba
- Romantic atmosphere ideal for photography
- Glass Floor “Look Down Window”
- Special area where you can look down at the ground from your feet
- Experience the tension of heights
Photography Tips:
- A tripod is effective for night photography (use restrictions apply during crowded times)
- Press the lens directly against the glass to avoid reflections
- The golden hour (dusk) produces the most beautiful results
Views from the Top Deck (250m)
The higher Top Deck, offering a panoramic view of Tokyo, is also ideal for experiencing the atmosphere of the work.
Features:
- 360-degree panoramic view
- More refined spatial design
- Reservation-based, allowing leisurely appreciation
Prime Spots for Exterior Photography
The exterior of Tokyo Tower is depicted multiple times throughout the work.
Angle from Shibakoen
- Composition looking up at Tokyo Tower
- Particularly beautiful during cherry blossom season (late March to early April)
- Can capture photos like the scenes of police gathering in the work
View from Zojoji Temple
- Contrast between historical structures and Tokyo Tower
- Photography with a Japanese atmosphere is possible
Area around Akabane-bashi Intersection
- Can capture the tower directly in front
- The nighttime illumination is beautiful
Staircase Area (Normally Not Public)
The staircase area where the chase scenes unfolded in the work is normally not open to the general public. However, during the special event “Tokyo Tower Staircase Walk” (held several times a year), visitors can actually climb the exterior stairs.
Staircase Walk Event Information:
- Holding Period: Irregular (announced on official website)
- Participation Fee: Free to paid (varies by event)
- Duration: Approximately 30-45 minutes
- For those with confidence in physical fitness (approximately 600 steps)
Best Times to Visit
Dusk (4:00 PM～6:00 PM)
The most recommended time. You can enjoy the transition from bright daytime scenery to night views.
- Beautiful sky gradation during the magic hour
- Gradual illumination of city lights
- Optimal lighting conditions for photography
Nighttime (7:00 PM～10:00 PM)
Since the climactic scene of “The Raven Chaser” takes place at night, this is when you can feel the atmosphere of the work most strongly.
- Tokyo’s night views shine most beautifully
- Also enjoy the illumination of Tokyo Tower itself
- Romantic atmosphere
Notes:
- Crowded on weekends and holidays at night
- Pay attention to the last entry time (10:00 PM)
Weekday Morning (9:00 AM～11:00 AM)
Recommended for those who want to view the area leisurely with fewer crowds.
- Can avoid congestion
- Photography is easier
- Mount Fuji may be visible on clear days
Highlights Inside Tokyo Tower
Foot Town (1st～3rd Floors)
1st Floor: Entrance
- Ticket counter
- Tokyo Tower Official Shop
- Conan merchandise may be sold
2nd Floor: Former Tokyo Tower Aquarium Area
- Currently used as a period-limited event space
3rd Floor: Tokyo Tower Official Shop Main Store
- Tokyo Tower exclusive merchandise
- Perfect for souvenir purchases
Tokyo One Piece Tower (Former Facility)
The “Tokyo One Piece Tower,” which operated from 2016 to 2020, has closed, but is now utilized as an event space. There is a possibility that Conan-related time-limited events may be held, so check the official website.
Restaurants and Cafés
Towers Diner (1st Floor)
- Casual restaurant
- Hamburgers, pasta, and more
Café La Tour (Main Deck 2nd Floor)
- Café inside the observation deck
- Perfect for resting while enjoying the views
Club 333 (Special Operating Days Only)
- Special restaurant on the top floor
- Reservation-required fine dining
Related Spots in the Surrounding Area
Shibakoen
Metropolitan park adjacent to Tokyo Tower
- Optimal photography spot for Tokyo Tower
- Beautiful cherry blossoms in spring, autumn foliage in fall
- Available for picnics and rest
- Free admission
Zojoji Temple
Bodhi temple for Tokugawa shoguns
- Approximately 5 minutes walk from Tokyo Tower
- Charm lies in the contrast between historical structures and Tokyo Tower
- Free to explore the grounds
- Goshuin stamps are also popular
Tokyo Prince Hotel
- Hotel in close proximity to Tokyo Tower
- Rooms with views of Tokyo Tower available
- Ideal for lodging during sacred site pilgrimage
Roppongi Hills
- Approximately 20 minutes walk from Tokyo Tower, about 10 minutes by car
- Tokyo Tower can be viewed from the observation deck
- Shopping and dining options abound
Hamarikyu Detached Palace Garden
- Daimyo garden from the Edo period
- Approximately 20 minutes walk from Tokyo Tower
- Fusion of Japanese garden and urban landscape
About “The Raven Chaser”
Work Overview
Release Date: April 18, 2009
Box Office Revenue: 3.5 billion yen
Running Time: 111 minutes
Director: Yasui Yamamoto
Screenplay: Kazushige Furuuchi
Story
Consecutive murders occur in Tokyo, Kanagawa, Shizuoka, and Nagano. Mysterious mahjong tiles are left at each crime scene. The Metropolitan Police Department holds an investigative meeting, which Conan and others attend. However, Irish, a member of the Black Organization, has infiltrated the meeting disguised as a police officer.
Irish’s objective is to expose Conan’s true identity and report it to the organization. As the crisis of Conan’s true identity as Shinichi Kudo being revealed to the organization looms, the final confrontation at Tokyo Tower begins.
Highlights
- Direct Confrontation with the Black Organization: A full-scale battle with members of the organization is depicted
- Irish’s Tragedy: The character torn between loyalty to the organization and humanity
- Action Scenes at Tokyo Tower: Tense high-altitude chase sequences
- The Detective Boys’ Activities: Children play important roles
How to Enjoy Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Advance Preparation
Study the Work
- Rewatch “The Raven Chaser” before visiting
- Check scenes where Tokyo Tower appears, especially
- Taking screenshots allows comparison at the site
Checklist of Items to Bring
- Camera/Smartphone (and charger)
- Device to confirm scenes from the work
- Comfortable shoes (in case stairs are used)
- Appropriate clothing for the season (observation deck is windy)
Photography Etiquette
- Be considerate to not disturb other visitors
- Refrain from using tripods during crowded times
- Be mindful of flash photography around others
- Absolutely no photography in private areas or restricted zones
Tips for SNS Posting
Example Hashtags:
- #NameDetectiveConan
- #TheRavenChaser
- #TokyoTower
- #SacredSitePilgrimage
- #ConanSacredSite
- #AnimeSacredSitePilgrimage
Ways to Enhance Your Post:
- Comparison photos with the same angles as scenes in the work
- Your impressions and discoveries from visiting
- Advice for other fans
Seasonal Enjoyment
Spring (March～May)
- Cherry Blossom Season: The union of Shibakoen’s cherry blossoms and Tokyo Tower
- Mild weather ideal for sightseeing
- Golden Week crowds are heavy
Summer (June～August)
- Remains bright late into the evening, extending night view appreciation time
- Crowded during summer vacation
- Air-conditioning on the observation deck ensures comfort
Autumn (September～November)
- Clear air allows viewing far into the distance
- High probability of seeing Mount Fuji
- Autumn foliage season makes surrounding exploration enjoyable
Winter (December～February)
- Christmas season features special illumination
- Clear air makes night views beautiful
- Cold weather protection is essential (observation deck is windy)
Special Event Information
Illumination
Tokyo Tower carries out different illuminations depending on the day:
Landmark Light
- Standard illumination
- Colors change by season
Diamond Veil
- Special illumination on special days
- 7-color LEDs shine
Conan-Related Events
Past Conan-related events have included:
- Special exhibitions commemorating theatrical releases
- Limited Conan merchandise sales
- Stamp rallies
The latest event information can be found on the Tokyo Tower official website and the Conan official website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much time is needed to spend at Tokyo Tower?
A: Approximately 1 hour for Main Deck viewing only; 1.5-2 hours if including the Top Deck. If you want to enjoy photography leisurely or take breaks at cafés, allow additional time.
Q: Can you enjoy it on rainy days?
A: The observation deck is indoors, so rainy weather is not a problem. Visibility may be reduced; however, some consider the rainy night views to be fantastically beautiful.
Q: Can wheelchair users use it?
A: Yes, Tokyo Tower is wheelchair-accessible. Elevators go up to the observation deck. Wheelchair rentals are also available (limited number).
Q: Is same-day re-entry possible?
A: Yes, same-day re-entry is possible by having your hand stamped. Mention this at the reception desk.
Q: Can Conan merchandise be purchased?
A: The official shop inside Tokyo Tower does not always carry Conan merchandise. However, it may be sold on a limited-time basis during theatrical releases. If you want to purchase with certainty, visiting anime shops in Akihabara or Ikebukuro is recommended.
Summary
Tokyo Tower, the sacred site of “Detective Conan: The Raven Chaser,” is a wonderful spot where fans can re-experience the emotions of the work. The panoramic view from a height of 333 meters, the observation deck which was the stage for the climactic scene, and its presence as a symbol of Tokyo make it a place worth visiting once for any Conan fan.
Points for Successful Sacred Site Pilgrimage:
- Rewatch the work beforehand and confirm scenes
- Visiting from dusk into night is recommended
- Weekdays allow avoiding congestion
- Visit nearby Shibakoen and Zojoji Temple as well
- Check illumination and event information by season
Tokyo Tower is a special place where the world of Conan and reality intersect. Using this article as a reference, enjoy a fulfilling sacred site pilgrimage. It will surely become an unforgettable experience that deepens your love for the work.
