【Makoto Shinkai Works】Weathering with You – Salvia Maru (Takeshiba Passenger Terminal) Sacred Sites Complete Guide
In the blockbuster film “Weathering with You” directed by Makoto Shinkai, numerous real locations in Tokyo appear, and fans actively engage in sacred site pilgrimages. Among the impressive scenes depicted are the “Salvia Maru,” the ship boarded by the protagonist Hodaka when heading to Tokyo, and the Takeshiba Passenger Terminal, its port of call.
This article provides a thorough explanation of information necessary for sacred site pilgrimages regarding the Takeshiba Passenger Terminal and Salvia Maru featured in “Weathering with You.” From access methods to photography spots, actual ship operation information, and comparisons with the work, we deliver must-see content for fans.
The Role of Takeshiba Passenger Terminal and Salvia Maru in Weathering with You
Important Scene Symbolizing the Beginning of the Story
At the beginning of “Weathering with You,” the protagonist Hodaka Morishima runs away from a remote island to Tokyo. The large passenger ship he boards is the “Salvia Maru,” operated by Tokai Kisen. The encounter with Keisuke Suga on the ship sailing through a storm becomes an important scene heralding the beginning of the entire story.
Director Makoto Shinkai is known for meticulously depicting real locations, and in this scene, the actual “Salvia Maru” and Takeshiba Passenger Terminal are faithfully recreated. The ship’s design, the terminal building, and surrounding scenery—details down to the smallest elements are incorporated from the actual landscape into the work.
A Symbolic Setting for Hodaka’s Journey to Tokyo
The Salvia Maru serves not merely as a means of transportation but carries symbolic meaning of Hodaka stepping from the island to the metropolis, from boyhood into the adult world. The mixture of anxiety and anticipation in his heart as the ship rocks in the storm resonated with many viewers.
The Takeshiba Passenger Terminal is depicted as the gateway where Tokyo, a giant city, welcomes Hodaka. The high-rise buildings visible from the terminal and Rainbow Bridge serve as important backgrounds that visually express the gap between Hodaka’s longing for Tokyo and reality.
Basic Information about Takeshiba Passenger Terminal
Facility Overview and History
The Takeshiba Passenger Terminal (official name: Tokyo Takeshiba Passenger Terminal) is located at 1-chome, Kaisoku, Minato Ward, Tokyo. It opened in 1991 and primarily serves as a departure point for ships heading to the Izu Islands and Ogasawara Islands.
The facility is a four-story above-ground building, with the first floor serving as a boarding lounge, the second floor as a departure lobby, the third floor as an observation deck and restaurant, and the fourth floor as a rooftop observation platform. The terminal building faces Tokyo Bay, offering views of Rainbow Bridge and the Odaiba area.
Operations and Functions
The terminal is managed by the Tokyo Metropolitan Port Authority and primarily handles departures and arrivals of large passenger ships operated by Tokai Kisen. It serves as an important transportation hub connecting Tokyo and the island regions throughout the year, utilized by many tourists and island residents.
The facility is equipped with waiting areas, gift shops, restaurants, and coin lockers, allowing visitors to spend long wait times comfortably. Barrier-free measures are also being advanced, with elevators and ramps installed.
About the Salvia Maru
Overview and Specifications of the Ship
The “Salvia Maru” is a large passenger ship operated by Tokai Kisen, which entered service in 1992. With a gross tonnage of 5,681 tons, a total length of 118.7 meters, and a passenger capacity of 1,187, it is a large vessel.
The ship’s name “Salvia” is derived from the salvia flower, which is the official flower of Izu Oshima town. The ship features a white hull with a distinctive red line on its side—this appearance is faithfully depicted in “Weathering with You.”
Operation Routes and Schedules
The Salvia Maru operates primarily on the following routes:
- Tokyo Takeshiba～Oshima～Toshima～Niijima～Shikine Island～Kozushima
- Overnight service: Departs Tokyo in the evening, arrives at each island the next morning
- Day trip service: Operates seasonally
Typically, it departs Takeshiba around 10 PM and begins calling at each island around 5 AM the next day. Return services depart from each island in the afternoon, arriving at Takeshiba in the evening or night. However, operation schedules may be altered due to weather conditions and seasons.
Ship Facilities
The Salvia Maru features the following amenities:
- Special class, first class, and second class rooms: Cabin types according to budget
- Restaurant: Offering light meals and beverages
- Gift shop: Souvenirs and daily necessities
- Observation deck: An open space with views of the sea
- Shower room: Convenient for long voyages
In “Weathering with You,” Hodaka likely spent time in the second-class communal sleeping area. The actual ship interior carries an atmosphere similar to what was depicted in the work, with many fans undertaking sacred site pilgrimages by boarding the vessel.
Sacred Site Pilgrimage: Photography Spots and Points of Interest
Takeshiba Passenger Terminal Exterior
The work depicts the terminal’s exterior as Hodaka arrives in Tokyo. When visiting in person, you can photograph the same angles as those in the film.
Recommended photography points:
- Near the terminal’s front entrance
- Full view of the terminal building from the sea side
- The view of Tokyo Bay from the second floor departure lobby
Particularly at dusk or nighttime, the illuminated terminal and Rainbow Bridge create a beautiful sight, allowing visitors to feel the atmosphere of the work.
Boarding Lounge and Lobby
The interior of the terminal also appears in the work. The first-floor waiting area and second-floor departure lobby are depicted as they actually exist in the facility.
The waiting area displays ship models and tourism information about the islands, and it’s recommended to view these during breaks from photography. Through the large windows of the departure lobby, you can see the docked Salvia Maru up close.
Observation Deck and Rooftop
The third-floor observation deck and fourth-floor rooftop observation platform offer panoramic views of Tokyo Bay. Views of Rainbow Bridge, Odaiba, and the Harumi area can all be seen, making it an ideal spot for photography.
While not directly depicted in the work, it’s a place to experience the scenery Hodaka would have seen—the view of Tokyo—and many fans visit here.
On the Salvia Maru
By actually boarding the Salvia Maru, you can experience what Hodaka experienced. Particularly on overnight services, you can witness the departure from Tokyo Bay at night, just like in the opening scene of the work.
Points of interest on the ship:
- Passing under Rainbow Bridge at departure
- Tokyo’s nightscape viewed from the deck
- The moment the ship docks at an island amid the morning glow
However, rough seas can cause significant rocking, so seasickness-prone individuals should prepare anti-nausea medication.
Access Methods and Visiting Tips
Access by Train
The nearest stations to Takeshiba Passenger Terminal are as follows:
Yurikamome Line “Takeshiba Station”
- A 1-minute walk from the station (closest)
- Approximately 5 minutes from Shimbashi Station
JR and Tokyo Metro “Hamamatsucho Station”
- Approximately 7 minutes on foot from the North Exit
- Accessible via Yamanote and Keihin-Tohoku Lines
Toei Subway Oedo and Asakusa Lines “Daimon Station”
- Approximately 10 minutes on foot from Exit B2
Yurikamome’s Takeshiba Station is most convenient, as the terminal building is immediately visible upon exiting the station. Hamamatsucho Station is also within walking distance, with good access from Tokyo and Shinagawa Stations.
Vehicle Access and Parking
The terminal has a paid parking lot, but parking is prioritized for ferry passengers, so public transportation is recommended if visiting solely for sacred site pilgrimages.
There are also coin parking facilities like Hinode Pier Parking in the surrounding area, though these tend to be crowded on holidays, so arriving early is preferable.
Best Times to Visit
Times of day:
- Evening to night: The illuminated scenery is beautiful
- Early morning: You may see the Salvia Maru returning to port
- Around 10 PM for overnight service departure: The atmosphere most closely matches the work
Seasons:
- Spring and autumn: Pleasant climate and comfortable conditions
- Summer: The island tourism season with vibrant activity
- Winter: Clear air and beautiful night views
Visiting during the summer when the work is set allows you to immerse yourself more deeply in the world of the film. However, note that during typhoon season (August-September), services may be cancelled.
Actual Boarding Experience: How to Board the Salvia Maru
Reservation Methods
Boarding on the Salvia Maru can be reserved through the official Tokai Kisen website or by phone. Early reservations are recommended, especially during summer and holiday periods when crowding is expected.
Reservation process:
- Access the Tokai Kisen official site
- Select desired date, route, and cabin type
- Enter passenger information
- Choose payment method (credit card, convenience store payment, etc.)
- Receive reservation confirmation email
On the day of departure, bring your reservation number and complete boarding procedures at the terminal by 30 minutes before departure time.
Estimated Fares
Tokyo to Oshima one-way fares (reference prices as of 2024):
- Second class (communal sleeping)：approximately ¥4,000-¥5,000
- Second class berth：approximately ¥6,000-¥7,000
- First class：approximately ¥8,000-¥9,000
- Special class：approximately ¥15,000-¥16,000
Fares fluctuate depending on season and booking status. Student discounts and round-trip discounts are available; check the official site for details.
Boarding Precautions
Items to bring:
- Reservation confirmation (smartphone screen acceptable)
- ID (required for student discounts, etc.)
- Anti-nausea medication (if necessary)
- Warm clothing (the deck is cold at night)
Other precautions:
- The ship rocks significantly depending on weather
- Second-class rooms are gender-mixed communal sleeping areas
- Valuables management is your own responsibility
- The ship is non-smoking (designated smoking areas available)
Nearby Sacred Site Pilgrimage Spots
Several spots featuring “Weathering with You” or other Makoto Shinkai works are located near the Takeshiba Passenger Terminal.
Hamarikyu Detached Palace Garden
Located approximately a 15-minute walk from the terminal, this Japanese garden doesn’t directly appear in “Weathering with You” but is recommended to visit between sacred site pilgrimages to enjoy Tokyo’s historical scenery.
Rainbow Bridge Pedestrian Path
The Rainbow Bridge visible from the terminal appears in the work and can be viewed. Walking the bridge’s pedestrian path (free) offers views of Tokyo Bay scenery.
Shiba Park and Tokyo Tower
Located within walking distance of Hamamatsucho Station, Tokyo Tower appears in distant views in “Weathering with You.” Views from Shiba Park represent iconic Tokyo scenery used in many scenes.
Roppongi and Yoyogi Area
If time permits, consider visiting the main setting areas of Shinjuku, Yoyogi, and Roppongi. These are accessible in approximately 30 minutes via the Yamanote Line from Hamamatsucho Station.
Comparison Between Work and Reality: Accuracy and Alterations
High Accuracy in Recreation
Director Makoto Shinkai’s works are known for exceptionally high fidelity in recreating real scenery, and the Takeshiba Passenger Terminal and Salvia Maru are no exception.
Faithfully recreated elements:
- The terminal building’s exterior design
- The Salvia Maru’s hull color and shape
- The atmosphere of waiting areas and boarding gates
- Tokyo Bay scenery and Rainbow Bridge
- Second-class room layout and atmosphere
Many fans who visited in person report that “it was exactly as depicted in the work,” making this a high-satisfaction pilgrimage spot.
Directorial Alterations
However, there are also alterations made for storytelling effectiveness:
- Weather: The work shows a storm scene, but actual weather varies
- Light expression by time of day: Film-like directorial touches are applied
- Background simplification in parts: Adjustments made during animation production
These are directorial choices to enhance the work’s artistry and don’t diminish the appeal of the actual location.
Sacred Site Pilgrimage Etiquette and Rules
Facility Use Etiquette
The Takeshiba Passenger Terminal is not a tourism facility but a working transportation hub used by people traveling to the islands. When on a sacred site pilgrimage, observe the following etiquette:
- Don’t obstruct boarding passengers: Avoid interfering with boarding procedures or movement
- Be considerate when photographing: Be mindful of other users appearing in shots
- Respect restricted areas: Follow signs prohibiting entry to non-authorized personnel
- Take trash with you: Keep the facility clean
- Keep noise levels low: Maintain public space manners
Photography Considerations
- Tripod use: Avoid during crowded times; use only where it doesn’t obstruct passage
- Flash photography: Be considerate of other visitors
- Commercial use: Requires advance permission from facility management
- Social media posting: When uploading photos with other people, apply edits or other consideration
Salvia Maru Boarding Etiquette
When actually boarding, follow the same rules as regular passengers:
- Follow safety regulations: Obey ship announcements and crew instructions
- Be considerate of other passengers: Remain quiet, especially in second-class areas
- No photography outside designated areas: The wheelhouse and other restricted areas prohibit photography
- Night-time noise consideration: Be mindful of sleeping passengers
To Enjoy the World of “Weathering with You” More Deeply
Prepare by Reviewing the Work
Viewing the work again before pilgrimage deepens enjoyment. Rewatching the opening scenes featuring the Takeshiba Passenger Terminal and Salvia Maru several times allows concrete imagery to form before visiting.
The film is available on Blu-ray, DVD, and various streaming services. The novel adaptation and storyboard collection are also helpful for deeper understanding.
Combining Other Sacred Sites
“Weathering with You” features numerous real Tokyo locations. Taking the Takeshiba Passenger Terminal as a starting point allows you to create pilgrimage routes including:
One-day course example:
- Morning: Takeshiba Passenger Terminal
- Late morning: Shinbashi and Ginza area
- Lunch: Yoyogi Kaikan surroundings (demolished)
- Afternoon: Shinjuku and Kabukicho
- Late afternoon: Roppongi Hills observation deck
- Evening: Tabata and Ikebukuro area
Related Merchandise and References
The terminal’s gift shop sells Izu Islands souvenirs. While work-related merchandise isn’t available there, purchasing commemorative items from the ship trip connecting Tokyo and the islands is worthwhile.
Official Makoto Shinkai merchandise is available at stores like Animate and the Ghibli Museum Shop (some works).
Seasonal Approaches to Enjoyment
Spring (March-May)
Spring offers pleasant weather, making it ideal for sacred site pilgrimages. The cherry blossom season pairs well with visits to Hamarikyu Detached Palace Garden.
The sea is relatively calm, making Salvia Maru boarding comfortable. Golden Week is crowded, so weekday visits are preferable.
Summer (June-August)
This is the season depicted in “Weathering with You,” offering the perfect opportunity to experience the film’s atmosphere. Caution is necessary regarding typhoon season.
Summer vacation periods see increased island tourism and lively terminal activity. The relative warmth at night makes deck photography comfortable.
Autumn (September-November)
Autumn offers clear skies and beautiful night views, making it ideal for Rainbow Bridge and Odaiba night photography.
After October when typhoon season calms, ship operations stabilize. Autumn foliage season adds enjoyment to park exploration nearby.
Winter (December-February)
Winter requires warm clothing but offers the most beautiful night views. Christmas season allows enjoyment of Odaiba area illuminations.
Rough seas may occur, so Salvia Maru operation status requires advance confirmation. Don’t forget warm clothing.
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
Q1: Is entry to Takeshiba Passenger Terminal free?
Yes, entry to the terminal building is free. The first-floor waiting area, second-floor departure lobby, third-floor observation deck, and fourth-floor rooftop observation platform are freely accessible to anyone. Viewing and photography are possible without boarding.
Q2: Can the ship be viewed without boarding the Salvia Maru?
Yes. For overnight services, the Salvia Maru departs around 10 PM and returns between evening and night the following day. You can view the docked ship or its departures and arrivals from the terminal’s observation deck or second-floor lobby. Since operation schedules vary by day, checking the Tokai Kisen official site is recommended.
Q3: What times are best for photography?
This depends on the goal. Daytime provides bright, detailed photography of the ship and terminal, while evening to night offers beautifully illuminated night views. The atmosphere most closely resembling the work occurs around 10 PM when the Salvia Maru departs—at this time you can witness scenery nearly identical to the opening scene.
Q4: Can one enjoy the sacred site pilgrimage solo?
Absolutely. The Takeshiba Passenger Terminal is accessible by convenient public transportation with good safety. It’s ideal for lingering over photography or immersing oneself in the work’s world. However, pay attention to surroundings during nighttime visits and manage valuables carefully.
Q5: Can rainy days still be enjoyable?
Rainy days offer a special experience of experiencing “weather,” the film’s central theme. The terminal building has abundant indoor facilities, allowing comfortable visits in rain. However, rooftop and deck photography becomes difficult, so plan according to weather.
Q6: Are there dining options nearby?
The terminal has a restaurant serving light meals. Additionally, numerous restaurants surround Hamamatsucho Station, offering various dining options within walking distance. Cafes and restaurants also exist near Takeshiba Pier Park.
Q7: Is wheelchair access available?
The terminal is barrier-free equipped with elevators and ramps. Yurikamome’s Takeshiba Station also has elevators, enabling wheelchair access. For boarding the Salvia Maru, consulting with Tokai Kisen in advance allows them to accommodate you.
Conclusion: Experience the World of Weathering with You
The Takeshiba Passenger Terminal and Salvia Maru are important sacred sites symbolizing the beginning of the “Weathering with You” story. Through Director Makoto Shinkai’s meticulous depiction, the actual location and the work’s world beautifully merge, profoundly moving visiting fans.
The terminal is easily accessible from the city center and free to view, allowing casual sacred site pilgrimages. If time permits, actually boarding the Salvia Maru and experiencing what Hodaka experienced will create wonderful memories.
When visiting, remember facility user consideration and enjoy the sacred site pilgrimage while observing proper etiquette. While immersed in “Weathering with You’s” worldview, you’ll rediscover the multifaceted appeal of Tokyo.
As a fan of Makoto Shinkai’s works or as part of Tokyo tourism, please visit the Takeshiba Passenger Terminal and Salvia Maru. You should certainly witness in person the special moment of “departure to Tokyo” depicted in the work.
