Director Makoto Shinkai’s hit film “Weathering with You” features numerous important turning points in its story at a location in Shinjuku’s Kabukicho district: the “Atami Building.” This is where the protagonist Hodaka meets the stray cat Ame, discovers “something” that changes his fate, and reunites with Hina. It is known as a sacred pilgrimage spot visited by many fans.
This article comprehensively covers everything “Weathering with You” fans need to know, from detailed information about the Atami Building to scenes from the film, how to visit, and nearby sacred sites.
What is the Atami Building? A Mixed-Use Building That Actually Exists in Kabukicho
Basic Information and Access
Address: 〒160-0021 2-27-8 Kabukicho, Shinjuku Ward, Tokyo
How to Get There:
- About 10 minutes walk from JR Shinjuku Station East Exit
- About 7 minutes walk from Seibu-Shinjuku Station
- About 8 minutes walk from Toshin-Shinjuku Station on the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line and Toei Oedo Line
The Atami Building is a typical mixed-use building located deep within Shinjuku’s Kabukicho district. The building houses numerous karaoke shops and restaurants (mainly bars), creating an atmosphere quintessentially Kabukicho. The surrounding area is densely packed with similar dining establishments and entertainment facilities, and when night falls, a unique landscape of neon lights unfolds.
Characteristics of the Actual Building
The exterior of the Atami Building is reproduced with remarkable faithfulness in the film. The building’s entrance has a sign reading “Atami Building” in horizontal characters, and the surrounding atmosphere closely matches the scenes in the film.
The “overwhelming realism” characteristic of Director Shinkai’s works is prominently evident in this depiction of the Atami Building. However, it’s interesting to note that the film subtly changes the names of existing shops.
Differences Between Shop Names in the Film and Reality:
- Karaoke Pub 45 → Actually “Karaoke Pub 55”
- 123 4F → Actually “121 4F”
- 3F SIDE → Actually “3F SIKI”
Such minor changes are often made out of consideration for actual businesses, and have become a standard technique in Director Shinkai’s works.
Important Scenes at the Atami Building in “Weathering with You”
Scene 1: Hodaka and Ame’s Meeting
Early in the story, Hodaka, a 16-year-old high school student who ran away from his island home to Tokyo, finds himself in difficult financial circumstances. Despite searching for days, he cannot find a part-time job and becomes physically and mentally exhausted. It is under the eaves of the Atami Building where Hodaka finally collapses.
Sitting next to a garbage can at the building’s entrance, Hodaka meets a stray cat. After sharing his Calorie Mate with this cat, Hodaka later names it “Ame” and continues to keep it at Suga’s office.
In the darkness of night, illuminated dimly by neon lights, this scene symbolically depicts Hodaka’s loneliness and anxiety, as well as the coldness and danger of Tokyo as a major metropolis.
Scene 2: The Discovery of the “Gun” That Changes Fate
At the same location where Hodaka met Ame, near the garbage can of the Atami Building, he discovers a “gun” that will significantly influence the course of the story. This gun becomes an important item for saving Hina later, while simultaneously becoming the reason Hodaka is pursued by police.
Through the Atami Building, Director Shinkai portrays the boundary line where Hodaka crosses from the “ordinary” to the “extraordinary.” This building, existing in the depths of Kabukicho where the law’s reach is tenuous, functions precisely as the “entrance to a dangerous world.”
Scene 3: Reunion with Hina and the Rescue
In the middle of the story, Hodaka encounters Hina again near the Atami Building. In this scene, Hodaka rescues Hina from being taken away by a scout using the gun he found earlier.
This rescue becomes a critical turning point that determines the relationship between Hodaka and Hina, and becomes the catalyst for deepening their bond. At the same time, Hodaka’s use of the gun makes him a fugitive from police, and the story takes a dramatic turn.
By serving as the setting for multiple important scenes, the Atami Building is positioned as an indispensable location in the story of “Weathering with You.”
What Kind of Work is “Weathering with You”? Director Shinkai Makoto’s Latest Film
Work Overview
“Weathering with You” is a feature-length animated film directed by Makoto Shinkai that was released on July 19, 2019. After the previous work “Your Name” became a social phenomenon, this highly anticipated film recorded a major box office success exceeding 1.4 billion yen.
Story:
One summer in his first year of high school, Hodaka runs away from a remote island to Tokyo. However, his life quickly becomes difficult, and the job he finally finds after days of loneliness is work as a writer for a questionable occult magazine. In the rain that falls day after day, amidst the crowded city, Hodaka meets Hina, a girl with the ability to be a “sunshine girl.”
The Work’s Theme and Appeal
“Weathering with You” explores adolescent growth and choices, as well as problems facing modern society, through the universal theme of “weather.” Director Shinkai’s distinctive beautiful visual expression, particularly the depiction of rain and light, is magnificent, and successfully captures Tokyo’s diverse faces.
The music by RADWIMPS also heightens the work’s appeal, with songs like “What Love Can Do” and “Grand Escape” remaining in many people’s hearts.
Differences from the Previous Work “Your Name”
While the previous work “Your Name” was themed around “miraculous meetings and reunions,” “Weathering with You” depicts a more personal and urgent choice: “What Matters More Than the World.” Hodaka’s decision to choose the person in front of him over society’s rules and conventions sparked both praise and criticism but garnered much sympathy.
The Characters of “Weathering with You” and Their Connection to the Atami Building
Morishima Hodaka
The protagonist of the film. A 16-year-old first-year high school student. Feeling suffocated by life on the island, he runs away to Tokyo. The Atami Building becomes a symbolic place where Hodaka faces the harsh realities of Tokyo life. Here he meets Ame, finds a gun, and rescues Hina, setting his story in motion.
Amano Hina
The heroine of the film. 15 years old. A girl living with her younger brother Nagi who possesses the ability to be a “sunshine girl” that brings clear skies through prayer. She is rescued by Hodaka when being taken away by a scout near the Atami Building, deepening their relationship.
Suga Keisuke
A writer for the occult magazine who employs Hodaka. Though he appears irresponsible at first glance, he also possesses kindness toward Hodaka. After Hodaka meets Ame, the cat lives in Suga’s office.
Practical Guide to Sacred Pilgrimage at the Atami Building
Precautions When Visiting
The Atami Building is an operating building that actually exists, and the surrounding area is an entertainment district. When visiting for pilgrimage, please note the following:
Precautions for Visiting:
- Do not interfere with business – The shops in the building are operating. Avoid prolonged stays near the entrance or loud conversations
- Be especially careful when visiting at night – Kabukicho’s atmosphere changes when night falls. Solo visits are not recommended; visiting with multiple people is advised
- Photography etiquette – Be considerate not to trouble passersby or shops. Keep flash photography minimal
- Take trash with you – Ensure the sacred site remains clean by taking all trash with you
- Do not enter private property – The interior of the building is private property. Do not enter without permission
Recommended Times for Photography
While the scenes in the film are mainly at night, the following times are recommended for pilgrimage:
Daytime (14:00-17:00):
- Higher safety, allowing for calm photography
- The building’s exterior can be clearly observed
- Other nearby sacred sites are easier to visit
Late afternoon to evening (18:00-20:00):
- Atmosphere closer to the film
- Neon signs begin to light up, making it easier to recreate film scenes
- However, foot traffic increases, so photography requires caution
Recommended Photography Points
- Building front entrance – Position where the “Atami Building” sign is visible
- Near the garbage can – Where Hodaka met Ame (being mindful not to obstruct passage)
- From diagonal angle – Allows capturing the entire building
- Neon at night – If recreating the film’s atmosphere, nighttime neon signs are worth photographing
“Weathering with You” Sacred Sites Around Shinjuku
When visiting the Atami Building, it’s recommended to combine the visit with other sacred sites nearby.
Manga Kissa Manboo Shinjuku Yasukuni Street Branch
A net café where Hodaka stayed temporarily. It was depicted as Hodaka’s place of refuge during his financially struggling period in Tokyo. Located about 15 minutes walk from the Atami Building.
Address: 1-chome Kabukicho, Shinjuku Ward, Tokyo
McDonald’s Seibu-Shinjuku Station Front Branch
The place where Hodaka and Hina first meet. The scene where Hina offers a hamburger to Hodaka in the rain is memorable. About 5 minutes walk from the Atami Building.
Address: 1-chome Kabukicho, Shinjuku Ward, Tokyo
Ippudo Ramen Kabukicho Branch
The location of the scene where Hodaka receives a police questioning. It appears as a scene before heading to the Atami Building.
Address: 1-chome Kabukicho, Shinjuku Ward, Tokyo
Shinjuku Golden Gai
Depicted as a place Suga frequents to drink. An area where you can feel Kabukicho’s unique atmosphere.
Yoyogi Kaikan
The building where “K&A Planning,” the office where Hodaka works for Suga, is located. A distinctive building with a shrine on its rooftop.
Address: 1-chome Yoyogi, Shibuya Ward, Tokyo
Efficient Sacred Pilgrimage Model Courses
Here are recommended model courses to efficiently visit “Weathering with You” sacred sites in the Shinjuku area.
Half-Day Course (Approximately 3-4 hours)
Start: JR Shinjuku Station East Exit (10:00)
↓ 5 minutes walk
① McDonald’s Seibu-Shinjuku Station Front Branch (10:05-10:20)
- The place where Hodaka and Hina meet
- Exterior photography and neighborhood exploration
↓ 3 minutes walk
② Ippudo Ramen Kabukicho Branch (10:23-10:35)
- The stage for the police questioning scene
- Actual dining is also possible (confirm business hours)
↓ 5 minutes walk
③ Atami Building (10:40-11:20)
- Main site
- Thorough photography and neighborhood exploration
↓ 8 minutes walk
④ Manga Kissa Manboo Shinjuku Yasukuni Street Branch (11:28-11:45)
- Where Hodaka stayed temporarily
- Exterior photography
↓ 15 minutes walk
⑤ Shinjuku Golden Gai (12:00-12:30)
- Place Suga frequents for drinks
- Quiet during the day, easy for photography
↓ 20 minutes walk
⑥ Yoyogi Kaikan (12:50-13:30)
- K&A Planning office
- Rooftop shrine is also worth seeing
Goal: Yoyogi Station or Shinjuku Station (14:00)
Full-Day Course (Approximately 7-8 hours)
In addition to the half-day course, the following sites can also be visited.
Additional Afternoon Sites:
⑦ Roppongi Hills
- Where Suga’s ex-wife Asuka works
- The view of Tokyo from the observation deck is also enjoyable
⑧ Tabata Station Area
- Where Hodaka arrives in Tokyo by boat
⑨ Odaiba·Daiba Seaside Park
- The stage for the fireworks display scene
- The scenery during twilight is beautiful
Enjoying Kabukicho Around the Atami Building
The History and Culture of Kabukicho
Kabukicho is known as Japan’s largest entertainment district. During Japan’s postwar reconstruction, it was planned as “a culturally oriented town centered on a kabuki theater,” but it developed into a busy commercial district with concentrated dining establishments and entertainment facilities.
Director Shinkai appears to have chosen this location as a place symbolizing “the light and shadow of Tokyo.” Behind the glittering neon lies loneliness and danger, as well as human warmth—”Weathering with You” skillfully depicts such multifaceted aspects of Kabukicho.
Points for Enjoying It Safely
While Kabukicho is popular as a tourist destination, it is also a nighttime entertainment district. Here are some pointers for enjoying it safely:
- Daytime visits recommended – For sacred pilgrimage, around 14:00-18:00 is best
- Travel in groups – Avoid solo travel, especially at night
- Refuse solicitation – Be firm in declining persistent solicitation
- Manage valuables – Be cautious of pickpockets in crowds
- Be wary of intoxicated individuals – Keep distance from drunk people at night
Understanding the World of “Weathering with You” More Deeply
What “Rain” and “Sunshine” Symbolize
In “Weathering with You,” “rain” is not merely a weather phenomenon. The endless rain symbolizes the sense of stagnation in modern society, the anxiety of young people, and bewilderment about an ever-changing world.
Meanwhile, the “sunshine” Hina brings signifies temporary hope and salvation. However, the setting where Hina herself must make a sacrifice expresses the contradiction of society: “Someone must be sacrificed for someone else’s happiness.”
The dark, rain-soaked Kabukicho depicted in the Atami Building scene symbolizes precisely this “rainy Tokyo.”
Director Shinkai’s Depiction of “Tokyo”
Director Shinkai depicted Tokyo in even greater detail in “Weathering with You” than in his previous work “Your Name.” In particular, the Shinjuku and Kabukicho areas are carefully portrayed as a place where beauty and fragility coexist.
By faithfully reproducing actual locations like the Atami Building, viewers are able to achieve a sense of immersion where “I too can enter this story’s world.” This is one reason why sacred pilgrimage of Shinkai’s works has become popular.
Integration with Music
The music created by RADWIMPS is a crucial element in forming the world of “Weathering with You.” In particular, “Grand Escape feat. Tōshi Miura” plays as Hodaka and Hina dash around Tokyo, heightening the story’s climax.
When visiting the Atami Building, listening to the music from the film while on pilgrimage allows you to immerse yourself even more deeply in the work’s worldview.
Trivia for Enjoying Sacred Pilgrimage More
Director Shinkai’s Research Methods
Director Shinkai is known for visiting locations featured in his works multiple times, taking photographs and making sketches. For “Weathering with You,” he reportedly conducted thorough research of the Shinjuku and Kabukicho areas, carefully observing even subtle changes in scenery due to time of day and weather.
The faithful reproduction of details such as the Atami Building’s sign and the arrangement of surrounding shops is a result of such meticulous research.
Time Progression Between Film and Reality
“Weathering with You” was released in 2019, but several years have passed since then. The Atami Building area has gradually changed, and some shops may have been replaced.
However, since the building’s structure and overall atmosphere have been preserved, there is plenty of opportunity to enjoy comparing the scenes in the film with reality.
Information Sharing on Social Media
On social media like Twitter and Instagram, many fans share their pilgrimage records using hashtags such as “#WeatheringwithYouSacredSite” and “#AtamiBuilding.” Checking these posts before your visit allows you to learn about the current situation and photography tips.
Conclusion: Experience the World of “Weathering with You” at the Atami Building
The Atami Building in Shinjuku’s Kabukicho district is an indispensable stage in the story of “Weathering with You.” The meeting between Hodaka and Ame, the discovery of the gun that changes fate, the rescue of Hina—all of this happens in this place.
When you actually visit, you will be amazed by Director Shinkai Makoto’s extraordinary observational skills and ability to recreate scenes. The building’s sign, the surrounding atmosphere, the neon lights—everything matches the scenes in the film.
When visiting for pilgrimage, pay close attention to etiquette and safety while fully enjoying the world of “Weathering with You.” By starting at the Atami Building and visiting other sacred sites in the Shinjuku area, you can gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the work.
“Weathering with You” depicts the light and shadow of Tokyo as a major metropolis and the lives of young people living there. At the Atami Building, this work’s symbolic location, why not become part of the story yourself?
Access Information (Restatement):
- Address: 〒160-0021 2-27-8 Kabukicho, Shinjuku Ward, Tokyo
- Nearest stations: About 10 minutes walk from JR Shinjuku Station East Exit, about 7 minutes walk from Seibu-Shinjuku Station
- Recommended visiting time: 14:00-18:00 (for safety and ease of photography)
- Time required: 30 minutes to 1 hour (including photography and neighborhood exploration)
Please witness with your own eyes the Tokyo landscape painted by Director Shinkai Makoto.
