【Lycoris Recoil】 Taito Ward, Tokyo
“Lycoris Recoil,” an original anime that aired in the summer of 2022 and achieved explosive popularity. Set in Tokyo, this work features numerous real filming locations, making it a major pilgrimage destination among fans. This article comprehensively introduces Lycoris Recoil pilgrimage sites scattered throughout Tokyo, and provides detailed explanations of efficient pilgrimage routes and precautions for visits.
What is Lycoris Recoil
“Lycoris Recoil” is an original television anime produced by A-1 Pictures, which aired from July to September 2022. The director is Shingo Adachi, the series composition and screenplay are by Asaura, and the character design is by illustrator Imigimurum.
The story is set in modern-day Japan where a secret organization called “DA (Direct Attack)” exists to prevent crime before it happens. Centered on protagonist Chisato Nishikigi and Takina Inoue, an action story unfolds where everyday and extraordinary moments intersect, based at the coffee shop Lycoris.
A major characteristic of the work is its faithful depiction of real places within Tokyo. From well-known tourist destinations like Asakusa, Odaiba, and Kichijoji, to hidden gems known only to locals, realistic Tokyo scenery adds color to the work.
List of Major Pilgrimage Sites in Tokyo
Asakusa Area
Around Senso-ji Temple
The Asakusa area that appears early in the work is a standard pilgrimage spot. You can take photos from the same angles as scenes shown in the anime, including the Thunder Gate, Nakamise shopping street, and Senso-ji temple main hall.
- Kaminarimon Gate: Appears in a scene from Episode 1 where Chisato and Takina carry out a mission
- Nakamise-dori: The bustling shopping street is faithfully recreated
- Senso-ji Temple Main Hall: The temple grounds are used as background in multiple episodes
Access: 5-minute walk from Asakusa Station on the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line or Toei Asakusa Line
Visit Tips: Early morning (7:00-8:00 AM) has fewer tourists, allowing for leisurely photography. Weekends and holidays are very crowded, so weekday visits are recommended.
Along the Sumida River
The promenade and bridges along the Sumida River also appear in the work. The area around Azuma Bridge in particular offers beautiful scenery with Tokyo Skytree in the background.
Odaiba Area
Aqua City Odaiba
Aqua City Odaiba is the setting for a scene in Episode 3 where Chisato and Takina go shopping. The mall’s atrium and restaurant floor are faithfully depicted.
- 3rd Floor: The corridors where characters walked
- Outdoor Deck: A scenic spot overlooking Rainbow Bridge
Access: 1-minute walk from Odaiba Station on the Yurikamome Line
Odaiba Marine Park
The marine park, visible with the Statue of Liberty and Rainbow Bridge, appears as a background in multiple scenes. The dusk landscape is especially beautiful and popular as a photography spot.
Kichijoji Area
Inokashira Park
Inokashira Park becomes an important setting mid-work. Benches along the pond, promenades, and the boat rental area appear in the work.
- Inokashira Pond: The setting for boat scenes
- Nanai Bridge: The bridge where characters stopped to have a conversation
- Benches in the Park: Used in scenes where Chisato and Takina talk
Access: 5-minute walk from Kichijoji Station on the JR Chuo Line or Keio Inokashira Line
Visit Tips: The cherry blossom season (late March to early April) is especially beautiful but extremely crowded. The fresh greenery season (May) and autumn foliage season (November) are also recommended.
Around Kichijoji Station
Both the north and south exits of Kichijoji Station appear in the work. The station rotary and shopping street entrances are depicted with careful attention to detail.
Shinjuku Area
Around Shinjuku Station
Shinjuku, the center of Tokyo, is one of the important settings in the work. The characteristic scenery of Shinjuku Station’s west, east, and south exits appear in the work.
- Shinjuku Station West Exit: Scenes with high-rise buildings in the background
- Shinjuku Station East Exit: Crowds in front of the Alto building
- Shinjuku Station South Exit: The open space of the Southern Terrace
Tokyo Metropolitan Building Observation Decks
The observation deck of the Tokyo Metropolitan Building appears impressively in Episode 8. Entry is free, and you can overlook Tokyo from 202 meters above ground.
Access: Direct connection to Tochomae Station on the Toei Oedo Line
Hours: 9:30 AM-10:00 PM (South Observation Deck may be closed on certain days)
Shibuya Area
Shibuya Scramble Crossing
Shibuya Scramble Crossing, which also appears in the anime’s opening sequence. This world-famous crossing is one of the iconic spots representing the world of Lycoris Recoil.
Around Shibuya Station
Various places in Shibuya, the center of youth culture, including Hachiko Plaza and Shibuya Center-gai shopping street, appear in the work.
Akihabara Area
Akihabara Electric District
Akihabara, which the characters visit in Episode 5, is faithfully depicted with its unique atmosphere, signage, and maid cafes.
Access: JR Yamanote Line, Sobu Line, Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line, and Tsukuba Express all serve Akihabara Station
Ginza and Yurakucho Area
Ginza Chuo-dori
Ginza Chuo-dori, lined with luxury boutiques, appears in important scenes in the latter half of the work. Weekend pedestrian street scenes are also depicted.
Around Yurakucho Station
The area under the elevated tracks in front of Yurakucho Station and surrounding buildings are used as backgrounds.
Other Notable Spots
Tokyo Tower
Tokyo Tower appears multiple times as a distant landmark. The view from the observation deck also appears in the work.
Rainbow Bridge
The view of Rainbow Bridge seen from the Odaiba direction is impressively depicted in night scenes.
Toyosu Market Area
The Toyosu area that appears in Episode 10. Characterized by modern architecture and waterfront scenery.
Efficient Pilgrimage Route Proposals
1-Day Course: Major Spots Course
Morning: Asakusa Area (9:00 AM-12:00 PM)
- Arrive at Asakusa Station (9:00 AM)
- Explore Kaminarimon Gate and Nakamise-dori (9:00-10:00 AM)
- Visit and photograph Senso-ji Temple (10:00-11:00 AM)
- Stroll along the Sumida River (11:00 AM-12:00 PM)
Afternoon Early: Odaiba Area (1:00 PM-4:00 PM)
- Travel to Odaiba by water bus from Asakusa (12:00-1:00 PM)
- Explore Aqua City Odaiba (1:00-2:30 PM)
- Stroll around Odaiba Marine Park (2:30-4:00 PM)
Afternoon Late: Shibuya and Shinjuku Area (4:30 PM-7:00 PM)
- Travel to Shibuya by Yurikamome Line to Shinbashi and then JR (4:00-4:30 PM)
- Shibuya Scramble Crossing and station area (4:30-5:30 PM)
- Travel to Shinjuku by JR (5:30-6:00 PM)
- Shinjuku Station area and Tokyo Metropolitan Observation Decks (6:00-7:00 PM)
2-Day Course: Thorough Pilgrimage Route
Day 1: East Area
- Morning: Asakusa Area
- Afternoon: Odaiba Area
- Evening: Akihabara Area
Day 2: West Area
- Morning: Kichijoji Area (Inokashira Park)
- Afternoon: Shibuya Area
- Evening: Shinjuku Area
Theme-Based Pilgrimage Routes
Following the Footsteps of Chisato and Takina
A course centered on places walked by the two protagonists. Visiting in the order Kichijoji → Asakusa → Odaiba allows you to experience the story’s flow.
Night Scenery and Illumination Course
Touring in the order Tokyo Tower → Rainbow Bridge → Odaiba → Shibuya from evening into night allows you to enjoy beautiful night views.
Preparation and Manners for Pilgrimage
Pre-Visit Preparation
Essential Items
- Smartphone/Camera: For photography. Don’t forget spare batteries
- Images of scenes from the work: Save them for comparison photography
- Transit IC Card: Essential for smooth transportation
- Map App: Google Maps, Yahoo Maps, etc.
- Beverages and Light Snacks: To prepare for long travel
Useful Items
- Small tripod/selfie stick
- Mobile battery
- Rain gear (folding umbrella)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Notebook and pen
Visit Etiquette
Basic Manners
- No trespassing on private property: Limit photography to public roads and public facilities
- Consideration for surroundings: Be careful not to obstruct pedestrian traffic
- Noise management: Act quietly in residential areas
- Take trash with you: Help maintain environmental cleanliness
- Consideration for operating businesses: Get permission for photography, patronize as a customer
Photography Precautions
- Do not use tripods in places where they are prohibited
- Be considerate about not photographing people’s faces
- Do not use flash in places where it is prohibited
- Avoid occupying a location for extended periods
- Refrain from photography in dangerous locations
SNS Posting Precautions
- Be careful about revealing location information
- Consider editing or being thoughtful about photos with other visitors
- Use spoiler-aware hashtags
- Avoid defamatory comments
Seasonal Recommendations for Visits
Spring (March-May)
Recommended Points
- Cherry blossoms at Inokashira Park are beautiful (late March to early April)
- Mild weather is ideal for long sightseeing
- May’s fresh greenery photographs well
Precautions
- The cherry blossom season is extremely crowded
- Golden Week sees heavy tourist traffic at attractions
Summer (June-August)
Recommended Points
- Odaiba’s seaside is refreshing
- Summer festival events are held at various locations
- Experience the same seasonal feeling as when the work aired
Precautions
- Heatstroke prevention is essential
- Rain gear is necessary during the rainy season
- Don’t forget sun protection
Autumn (September-November)
Recommended Points
- Autumn foliage is beautiful (mid to late November)
- Weather is stable and comfortable
- Early sunset makes night photography easier
Precautions
- The fall foliage season is crowded
- Large temperature variations between morning and evening
Winter (December-February)
Recommended Points
- Illuminations are beautiful
- Clear air is ideal for distant shots
- Relatively fewer tourists
Precautions
- Warm clothing is essential
- Early sunset (around 4:30 PM)
- Year-end and New Year transportation is crowded
Experiences to Enjoy Alongside Pilgrimage
Culinary Experiences
Asakusa Area
- Doll-shaped cakes and thunder crackers on Nakamise-dori
- Established tempura restaurants
- Monjayaki
Kichijoji Area
- Restaurants in Harmonica Yokocho alley
- Stylish cafes
- Bakeries near Inokashira Park
Odaiba Area
- Aqua City restaurant floor
- Seafood restaurants
- Cafes for breaks
Shopping
Anime Goods
Many stores in Akihabara handle Lycoris Recoil official merchandise and related products. It’s recommended to visit specialty shops like Animate, Gamers, and Toranoana.
Souvenirs
Purchasing local specialties and products from each area is one of the pleasures. Try to find memorable souvenirs like Asakusa’s thunder crackers, Kichijoji sweets, and Odaiba limited edition goods.
Cultural Experiences
Visiting Senso-ji Temple
You can experience Japanese traditional culture by drawing fortunes and purchasing amulets.
Tokyo Metropolitan Building Observation Deck View
You can overlook Tokyo for free and actually experience scenes that appeared in the work.
Transportation and Access Information
Recommended Transit Passes
Tokyo Metro 24-Hour Pass
Price: 600 yen
Coverage: All Tokyo Metro lines
Recommendation: ★★★★☆
Very cost-effective when visiting multiple pilgrimage sites. Covers Shibuya, Ginza, Asakusa, and more.
Toei Full Pass
Price: 700 yen
Coverage: Toei Subway, Toei Buses, Toden, Nippori-Toneri Liner
Recommendation: ★★★☆☆
Convenient for touring Asakusa and Shinjuku.
Tokyo Free Ticket
Price: 1,600 yen
Coverage: JR Lines (Tokyo Metropolitan Area), All Tokyo Metro Lines, All Toei Subway Lines, Toei Buses, Toden, Nippori-Toneri Liner
Recommendation: ★★★★★
Most economical and convenient for traveling a wide area. Ideal if planning to visit many sites in one day.
Travel Time Between Areas
- Asakusa ⇔ Odaiba: Approximately 40 minutes (water bus), approximately 50 minutes (train)
- Asakusa ⇔ Kichijoji: Approximately 50 minutes
- Odaiba ⇔ Shibuya: Approximately 30 minutes
- Shibuya ⇔ Shinjuku: Approximately 10 minutes
- Shinjuku ⇔ Kichijoji: Approximately 15 minutes
- Akihabara ⇔ Asakusa: Approximately 10 minutes
Water Bus Utilization
For traveling from Asakusa to Odaiba, a water bus down the Sumida River is recommended. The approximately 40-minute boat trip includes the experience of passing under Rainbow Bridge.
Fare: 1,560 yen (one way)
Travel Time: Approximately 40 minutes
Photography Techniques and Tips
Comparison Photography Points
Angle Matching
To photograph at the same angle as scenes in the work, prepare screenshots of the relevant scenes beforehand and compare them with your smartphone screen at the location to adjust your position.
Time Selection
Matching the time of day (morning, noon, evening, night) of scenes in the work allows better recreation of the atmosphere.
Weather Considerations
Scenery changes significantly depending on weather (clear, cloudy, rainy). Choosing a day with weather matching the work’s scenes is one approach.
Smartphone Photography Techniques
HDR Mode Utilization
In places with high contrast between light and dark, enabling HDR mode produces more beautiful photos.
Grid Line Display
The grid line display feature assists in composition using the rule of thirds.
Portrait Mode Utilization
When wanting to blur the background, using portrait mode creates photos like those from a single-lens reflex camera.
DSLR Photography Settings
Lens Selection
- Wide-angle lens (16-35mm): For photographing entire buildings or wide landscapes
- Standard lens (24-70mm): Versatile use
- Telephoto lens (70-200mm): For distant subjects or compression effects
Settings Guidelines
- Aperture: F8-F11 (focus on entire landscape)
- Shutter speed: 1/125 seconds or faster (prevent camera shake)
- ISO sensitivity: 100-400 (daytime), 800-3200 (nighttime)
Accommodation Information and Recommended Hotels
Asakusa Area
Advantages
- Enjoy local downtown atmosphere
- Relatively affordable accommodations
- Possible for early morning Senso-ji temple visits
Recommended Hotel Types
Business hotels, capsule hotels, guest houses
Shinjuku and Shibuya Area
Advantages
- Excellent transportation convenience
- Abundant dining options
- Can stay active late
Recommended Hotel Types
Business hotels, city hotels
Odaiba Area
Advantages
- Experience seaside resort atmosphere
- Beautiful night views
- Abundant shopping facilities
Recommended Hotel Types
Resort hotels, city hotels
Fan Events and Related Information
Official Events
Official Lycoris Recoil events are held irregularly. Voice actor talk shows, screenings, and merchandise sales may occur. Check official websites and SNS for the latest information.
Collaboration Cafes
Limited-time collaboration cafes with Lycoris Recoil are sometimes held in Tokyo. They often open in Akihabara, Ikebukuro, and Harajuku.
Exhibitions and Pop-up Stores
Anime shops like Animate and Gamers sometimes feature special sections with limited goods sales and life-size panel displays.
Recording Your Pilgrimage
SNS Sharing
Recommended Hashtags
- #リコリコ聖地巡礼
- #リコリスリコイル
- #LycorisRecoil
- #リコリコ
- #聖地巡礼
Posting Tips
- Post work scenes and current location photos side-by-side
- Write thoughtful impressions of visits
- Share information useful to other pilgrims
- Tag with spoiler considerations
Creating a Pilgrimage Notebook
Recording visits using paper notebooks or digital note apps is also recommended.
Record Contents
- Date and time of visit
- Detailed location information
- Photographed images
- Impressions and observations
- Notes for future visits
Recording Videos
Recording vlogs and sharing on YouTube or Nico Nico Video is popular. Travel footage and on-site atmosphere come across well.
Budget Estimate
Day Trip Pilgrimage
- Transportation: 1,600 yen (Tokyo Free Ticket)
- Meals: 2,000-3,000 yen (lunch and snacks)
- Merchandise purchases: 2,000-5,000 yen (optional)
- Miscellaneous: 1,000 yen (drinks, souvenirs, etc.)
Total: Approximately 6,600-10,600 yen
1-Night 2-Day Pilgrimage
- Transportation: 3,200 yen (Tokyo Free Ticket × 2 days)
- Accommodation: 5,000-15,000 yen (depending on hotel grade)
- Meals: 5,000-8,000 yen (2 days)
- Merchandise purchases: 3,000-10,000 yen (optional)
- Miscellaneous: 2,000 yen
Total: Approximately 18,200-38,200 yen
Conclusion: For a Fulfilling Pilgrimage
The Lycoris Recoil pilgrimage through Tokyo is a precious opportunity to actually experience the work’s world. From the traditional downtown charm of Asakusa to the modern scenery of Odaiba and the calm atmosphere of Kichijoji, you can rediscover the diverse appeal of Tokyo.
Key Points for a Successful Pilgrimage
- Don’t neglect preparation: Confirm operating hours and access methods for visit locations
- Allow time in schedule: Don’t overpack plans
- Follow manners: Show consideration for local residents and other tourists
- Adapt flexibly to weather: Have backup plans for rainy days
- Manage health: Stay hydrated and take adequate breaks
- Enjoy: Don’t aim for perfection; savor the atmosphere
As fans who love the work, treat pilgrimage sites with care and maintain them for future visitors. Walking through the world of Lycoris Recoil and viewing the same scenery the characters see will deepen your understanding and affection for the work.
The journey visiting pilgrimage sites scattered throughout Tokyo will be a special experience beyond mere tourism. By walking the streets where Chisato and Takina moved and viewing the same scenery, you can immerse yourself deeper in the work’s world.
We wish your pilgrimage to be wonderful memories. Travel safely and enjoy a fulfilling pilgrimage journey!
