【Love Live!】 Koto Ward, Tokyo
“Love Live! Nijigasaki High School School Idol Club” (commonly known as Nijigasaki) is a popular installment in the Love Live series set in the Tokyo Bay Minato Mirai Area. This article provides a detailed district-by-district introduction to sacred sites from TV anime seasons 1 and 2, as well as the theatrical film “Final Chapter” located throughout Tokyo. We will provide thorough explanations including access information useful for actual pilgrimages, efficient routes, and photography points.
About Love Live! Nijigasaki High School School Idol Club
“Love Live! Nijigasaki High School School Idol Club” is a story set in the fictional high school “Nijigasaki Academy” located in Odaiba, Tokyo, where school idols with diverse personalities shine. As the third installment in the Love Live series, it began serialization in Dengeki G’s Magazine in 2017, with TV anime season 1 airing in 2020 and season 2 in 2022.
A major characteristic of the work is that, unlike previous series, it emphasizes “solo activities.” Each member pursues their own individuality, sometimes as comrades and sometimes as rivals, striving to improve themselves.
Charm of the Tokyo Bay Minato Mirai Area as the Stage
The main stage of Nijigasaki is the Tokyo Bay Minato Mirai Area centered on Odaiba. Many real facilities appear in the anime, including Fuji Television headquarters, Tokyo Big Sight, Palette Town (※closed in 2022), and Ariake Garden. This area is also popular as a tourist destination, making it possible to enjoy both pilgrimage and sightseeing simultaneously.
The anime depicts the beautiful scenery of the Minato Mirai area carefully, with many impressive scenes making use of locations such as the Rainbow Bridge and evening views of Tokyo Bay.
Basic Information and Access for Sacred Site Pilgrimages
How to Access Main Areas
Sacred site pilgrimages for Nijigasaki are mainly divided into the following three districts:
Ariake District
- Yurikamome “Ariake Station,” “Ariake Tennis no Mori Station,” “International Exhibition Hall Seimeimon Station”
- Rinkai Line “International Exhibition Hall Station”
Aomi District
- Yurikamome “Aomi Station,” “Telecom Center Station”
- Rinkai Line “Tokyo Teleport Station”
Odaiba District
- Yurikamome “Odaiba Station,” “Odaiba Seaside Park Station,” “Ship Science Museum Station”
- Rinkai Line “Tokyo Teleport Station”
How to Plan Efficient Pilgrimage Routes
For efficient sacred site pilgrimages, purchasing a Yurikamome one-day pass (820 yen) is recommended. Spots in each district are concentrated within walking distance, so you can cover most major spots in one day.
Example of Recommended Route
- Ariake District (Morning): Tokyo Big Sight area, Ariake Garden
- Odaiba District (Midday): Diver City Tokyo, Fuji Television area
- Aomi District (Afternoon): Palette Town former site, Telecom Center area
- Toyosu/Odaiba Seaside Park (Evening): Evening view spots
Precautions and Etiquette During Pilgrimages
Please note the following points during sacred site pilgrimages:
- Check facility operating hours in advance: Commercial facilities are off-limits outside business hours
- Respect photography-prohibited areas: Especially in commercial facilities, follow photography rules
- Consider passersby: Be careful not to cause inconvenience to surrounding people when photographing
- No trespassing on private property: Make an effort to photograph from public roads and public spaces
- Take trash with you: Help preserve the beautiful streetscapes by following etiquette
Sacred Site Pilgrimage Spots in Ariake District
Ariake District, centered on Tokyo Big Sight, which served as the model for Nijigasaki Academy, is the setting for many important scenes.
Tokyo Big Sight (Tokyo International Exhibition Hall)
The most important spot appearing as the campus of Nijigasaki Academy. The distinctive inverted-triangle conference building is frequently featured in the anime’s opening and ending themes.
Examples of Appearances
- Season 1 OP: As the exterior of Nijigasaki Academy
- Season 1 Episode 1: Around the live scene of Setsuichi Yumiki
- Various episodes: As the background of school daily life scenes
Photography Points
- Conference Building front: From the main entrance plaza
- Entrance Plaza: Upward angle of the conference building
- Center Promenade: The passage between the East and West Exhibition Buildings
Access
- Yurikamome “International Exhibition Hall Seimeimon Station” 3 minutes on foot
- Rinkai Line “International Exhibition Hall Station” 7 minutes on foot
Important Note
General admission may be restricted during events. External photography is possible, but internal photography is basically not allowed.
Ariake Garden
A large commercial facility that opened in June 2020 with increased appearances from anime season 2 onwards.
Examples of Appearances
- Season 2: Members shopping scenes
- Season 2: Fountain plaza event scene
Highlights
- Entrance Plaza: Characterized by an open space
- Fountain Area: A pleasant space with beautiful water and greenery
- Shopping Mall: Some stores that appear in the anime
Access
- Yurikamome “Ariake Station,” “Ariake Tennis no Mori Station” 4 minutes on foot
Ariake Tennis no Mori Park
A verdant park area where members’ practice scenes appear.
Examples of Appearances
- Season 1: Running scenes
- Season 2: Outdoor practice scenes
Photography Points
- Walking Path: A walking path surrounded by trees
- Grass Plaza: An open space
Sacred Site Pilgrimage Spots in Aomi District
Aomi District is a particularly important area for Nijigasaki’s sacred sites, serving as the stage for many impressive scenes.
Palette Town Former Site Area
Important Notice
Palette Town (Venus Fort, Palette Plaza, observation wheel, etc.) completely closed on August 31, 2022. Currently redevelopment is in progress, and the former facilities no longer exist. However, the surrounding area is still accessible, and many fans visit as a place to remember.
Main Scenes That Previously Appeared
- Venus Fort Church Plaza: Important scenes of Emma Verde
- Fountain Plaza: Members’ gathering scenes
- Palette Plaza: Shopping scenes
- Observation Wheel: Appearing in evening view backgrounds
Diver City Tokyo Plaza
A large commercial facility identifiable by its full-scale Unicorn Gundam statue. It frequently appears in the anime.
Examples of Appearances
- Season 1: Festival plaza event scenes
- Season 2: Shopping scenes
- Various episodes: Frequently as background
Highlights
- Unicorn Gundam Statue: Symbol of Festival Plaza (scheduled for removal in March 2024 but extended)
- 2nd Floor Deck: A photography spot overlooking Odaiba’s scenery
- Gamers: Abundant Love Live merchandise
Access
- Yurikamome “Odaiba Station” 5 minutes on foot
- Rinkai Line “Tokyo Teleport Station” 3 minutes on foot
Aomi Kita Wharf Park
A quiet park in the Odaiba area characterized by a seaside promenade.
Examples of Appearances
- Season 1: Character conversation scenes
- Season 2: Scenes of gazing at the sea
Photography Points
- Seaside Walking Path: Overlooking the Rainbow Bridge
- Bench Area: The place where characters sat
Telecom Center Area
Located on the eastern side of Aomi District, an area with futuristic buildings.
Examples of Appearances
- Season 1: Commute route scenes
- Season 2: City walking scenes
Highlights
- Telecom Center Building: Distinctive architecture
- Surrounding Walkway Bridge: Photography possible with composition from the anime
Sacred Site Pilgrimage Spots in Odaiba District
Odaiba District is the central area of Odaiba with many locations that are also popular tourist spots serving as sacred sites.
Odaiba Seaside Park
A park with an artificial beach facing Tokyo Bay, and one of Nijigasaki’s representative sacred sites.
Examples of Appearances
- Season 1 OP/ED: Seaside scenes
- Season 1: Members’ gathering scenes, important conversation scenes
- Season 2: Evening view scenes
Photography Points
- Marine House front deck: With Rainbow Bridge as background
- Beach area: Statue of Liberty and Rainbow Bridge in the same shot
- Walking Path: Seaside promenade
- Observation Deck: Panoramic view of Tokyo Bay from a high position
Access
- Yurikamome “Odaiba Seaside Park Station,” “Odaiba Station” 3 minutes on foot
Recommended Times
The evening hours are particularly beautiful, offering the strongest atmosphere of the anime. Golden hour is from one hour before sunset.
Decks Tokyo Beach
A seaside shopping mall that also appears in the anime.
Examples of Appearances
- Season 1: Shopping scenes
- Season 2: Seaside mall event
Highlights
- Seaside Deck: An open space overlooking the sea
- Odaiba Ichicho Shotengai: A retro-styled indoor area
- Various Shops: Stores carrying Love Live related merchandise
Fuji Television Headquarters Building
A building identifiable by its spherical observation deck “Hatchitatama,” a Odaiba landmark.
Examples of Appearances
- Various episodes: Frequently as background
- Season 1: Streetscape scenes
Highlights
- Spherical Observation Deck: Views from 100 meters above ground (fee required)
- 1st Floor Plaza: Can photograph the entire building
Access
- Yurikamome “Odaiba Station” 3 minutes on foot
Aqua City Odaiba
A large shopping mall with movie theaters and abundant restaurant options.
Examples of Appearances
- Season 1: Shopping scenes
- Season 2: Members’ dining scenes
Highlights
- 3rd Floor Deck: Stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and Rainbow Bridge
- Shrine (Aqua City Shrine): A power spot for romantic connections
Sacred Sites in Toyosu and Other Areas Within Tokyo
Sacred sites for Nijigasaki are not limited to the Odaiba area but are scattered throughout Toyosu and various locations in Tokyo.
Toyosu Gururi Park
An important sacred site used in the anime’s key visual.
Examples of Appearances
- Anime Season 1 Key Visual: Impressive cut with all members lined up
- Season 1: Seaside conversation scenes
- Season 2: Running scenes
Photography Points
- Seaside Promenade: The same angle as the key visual
- Grass Area: An open space
- Observation Spot: View of Rainbow Bridge and Tokyo Skytree
Access
- Yurikamome “Ichiba-mae Station” 1 minute on foot
- Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line “Toyosu Station” 15 minutes on foot
Why Toyosu Was Chosen
While Nijigasaki Academy is set in Odaiba in the narrative, the key visual uses Toyosu’s scenery. This is thought to be because it’s an ideal location where both the Rainbow Bridge and Tokyo Skytree can be seen simultaneously.
Ship Science Museum Area
A museum area themed around oceanography.
Examples of Appearances
- Season 1: Scenes around the Antarctic observation ship “Soyo”
- Season 2: Seaside strolling scenes
Highlights
- Antarctic Observation Ship “Soyo”: Real observation ship available for viewing (free)
- Outdoor Exhibition Area: Marine-related exhibits
Access
- Yurikamome “Ship Science Museum Station” 2 minutes on foot
National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation
A museum where you can experience cutting-edge science and technology.
Examples of Appearances
- Season 1: Around space-themed scenes
- Season 2: Inside the science museum scenes
Highlights
- Permanent Exhibits: Displays of robots and space
- Symbol Exhibit “Geo-Cosmos”: Earth display
Access
- Yurikamome “Ship Science Museum Station,” “Telecom Center Station” 5 minutes on foot
Locations in Tokyo Appearing in Season 2 and the Film
Anime season 2 and the film feature various locations throughout Tokyo beyond Odaiba.
Shinagawa Ward
- Tennozu Isle Area: Appears in season 2
- Shinagawa Station Area: Commute route scenes
Other Areas
- Shibuya: Shopping scenes
- Shinjuku: City walking scenes
- Akihabara: Gamers flagship store, etc.
Character-Specific Recommended Pilgrimage Spots
Introducing spots with deep connections to each member.
Ayumu Uehara
- Odaiba Seaside Park (childhood friend’s memorial location)
- Ariake Garden (shopping scenes)
Kasumi Nakasu
- Diver City Tokyo (cute thing hunting scenes)
- Decks Tokyo Beach (shopping scenes)
Shizuku Sakurazaka
- Aqua City Odaiba (theater-related scenes)
- Fuji Television Area (media-related topics)
Karin Asaka
- Venus Fort Former Site (modeling activity scenes)
- Toyosu Gururi Park (photography spot)
Ai Miyashita
- Gamers (as a game-loving character)
- Telecom Center Area (IT-related)
Kanata Ooji
- Odaiba Seaside Park (laid-back atmosphere)
- Ariake Tennis no Mori Park (napping spot)
Setsuna Yuki
- Tokyo Big Sight (School idol fest)
- Akihabara (anime and game culture)
Emma Verde
- Venus Fort Church Plaza Former Site (important transfer scene)
- Odaiba Seaside Park (place to feel nature)
Rina Tennoji
- National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (interest in science and technology)
- Telecom Center (IT and technology sector)
Shioko Mikafune (from Season 2)
- Tokyo Big Sight (student council activities)
- Ariake Garden (serious shopping)
Mia Taylor (from Season 2)
- Diver City Tokyo (international atmosphere)
- Odaiba Seaside Park (open space)
Lanzhu Zhong (from Season 2)
- Diver City Tokyo (energetic location)
- Aomi Kita Wharf Park (practice spot)
Information to Further Enjoy Sacred Site Pilgrimages
Love Live! MUSIC SCHOOLBUS
Official sacred site pilgrimage bus tours may be operated for limited periods. This cruising tour departs from Ariake Garden and takes about 45 minutes to tour the Minato Mirai stages.
Features
- Anime and PV songs play in the vehicle
- Efficiently tour major spots
- Hear detailed explanations with a guide
Check the official website for the latest operation information.
Collaboration Events and Campaigns
Facilities in the Odaiba area periodically hold Love Live related collaboration events.
Examples of Past Major Collaborations
- Diver City Tokyo: Life-size panel displays, merchandise sales
- Ariake Garden: Stamp rallies, photo spot installations
- Decks Tokyo Beach: Limited-time cafes
- Gamers Each Store: Limited merchandise sales
Large-scale collaborations are often held during film releases or anniversaries, so check official websites and SNS for the latest information.
Merchandise Purchase Spots
Gamers Akihabara Flagship Store
- Most abundant selection
- Numerous limited merchandise
- Access: 5 minutes on foot from JR Akihabara Station
Animate Branches
- Ikebukuro Flagship Store, Akihabara Branch, etc.
- Standard merchandise available
Shops Inside Diver City Tokyo
- Stop by while doing Odaiba pilgrimages
- Limited merchandise also available during events
Utilization of Sacred Site Maps
Using sacred site maps created by fan communities allows for more efficient pilgrimages. Maps shared using Google Map’s MyMap feature have been released.
Information Included in Maps
- Location information for each spot
- Episodes and scenes where they appeared
- Hints for photography angles
- Access methods
Seasonal Pilgrimage Plans
Spring (March – May)
Recommended Points
- Mild climate, easy to walk
- Fresh greenery in Ariake Tennis no Mori Park is beautiful
- Relatively less crowded
Suggested Route
Morning: Toyosu Gururi Park → Ariake Garden → Tokyo Big Sight
Afternoon: Odaiba Seaside Park → Diver City Tokyo → Decks Tokyo Beach
Summer (June – August)
Recommended Points
- Experience the atmosphere of summer anime
- Enjoy the sea at Odaiba Seaside Park
- Pleasant evening strolls
Notes
- Extreme heat during daytime, heat stroke prevention essential
- Don’t forget sunscreen, hat, and hydration
- Take breaks in indoor facilities while touring
Autumn (September – November)
Recommended Points
- The most suitable season for pilgrimages
- Evening views are beautiful
- Many events during this period
Suggested Route
Morning: Tokyo Big Sight → Ariake Garden
Afternoon: Diver City Tokyo → Odaiba Seaside Park (aiming for evening views)
Evening: Dinner at Decks Tokyo Beach
Winter (December – February)
Recommended Points
- Beautiful illuminations
- Clear air makes photos clear
- Winter anime atmosphere
Notes
- Seaside areas have strong winds and cold
- Take proper cold weather precautions
- Pay attention to scheduling as sunset is early
Accommodation and Dining Information
Recommended Accommodations
Odaiba Area
- Hilton Tokyo Odaiba: Luxury hotel with ocean views
- Grand Nikko Tokyo Bay Ariake: Popular for Rainbow Bridge views
- Tokyo Bay Ariake Washington Hotel: Good value for money
Toyosu Area
- Mitsui Garden Hotel Toyosu Bayside Cross: New and comfortable
- APA Hotel : Reasonable prices
Dining Spots
Diver City Tokyo
- Food Court: Variety of cuisines
- Restaurant Floor: Comfortable dining
Decks Tokyo Beach
- Odaiba Shokoukuon: Authentic Chinese cuisine
- Seaside Restaurant: Dining with ocean views
Ariake Garden
- Diverse Restaurants: Japanese, Western, and Chinese cuisine available
- Cafes: Perfect for breaks
Photography Techniques and Recommended Equipment
Basic Photography Tips
Composition
- Save anime cut screenshots in advance
- Compare with images at the location and find the same angle
- Be conscious of horizontal and vertical lines while photographing
Choosing Times
- Morning: Few people, easy to photograph
- Midday: Bright and easy to photograph but crowded
- Evening: Golden hour creates atmosphere
- Night: Beautiful illuminations
Recommended Equipment
Cameras
- Smartphone: Convenient with sufficient image quality
- Mirrorless Camera: For serious photography
- Action Camera: Convenient for video recording
Useful Items
- Tripod/Selfie Stick: For stable photography
- Backup Battery: Essential for long pilgrimages
- Lens Cloth: For removing lens dirt
Summary: Maximizing Your Love Live! Nijigasaki Sacred Site Pilgrimage Experience
The sacred site pilgrimage for “Love Live! Nijigasaki High School School Idol Club” is characterized by the ability to enjoy it in the Tokyo Bay Minato Mirai Area, which is also attractive as a tourist destination. You can experience the special fusion of Odaiba’s beautiful scenery and the anime world.
Points for Pilgrimage Success
- Review anime beforehand to confirm appearance scenes
- Use the Yurikamome one-day pass for efficient travel
- Allow extra time in your schedule
- Follow etiquette and enjoy the pilgrimage
- Check collaboration event information
As the series continues with season 1, season 2, and a theatrical film, new sacred sites continue to be added. The Nijigasaki sacred site pilgrimage, where you can make new discoveries no matter how many times you visit. Please use this guide as a reference and enjoy your own special pilgrimage experience.
Finally, sacred site pilgrimages are made possible by the understanding and cooperation of local residents. By following etiquette and acting with consideration for the community, we hope that this wonderful sacred site pilgrimage culture will continue into the future.
Make special memories at the places where the Nijigasaki members shined. Head to your sacred site pilgrimage journey aiming for excitement!
