【Oshi no Ko】Complete Sacred Site Pilgrimage Guide to Minato Ward, Tokyo｜Must-See Filming Locations and Story Settings for Fans
“Oshi no Ko,” a hugely popular work by Akasaka Aka and Yokoyari Mengo, captivates many fans with its realistic portrayal of the entertainment industry’s inner workings. With anime adaptation, live-action drama adaptation, and film adaptation being announced one after another, this work continues to generate buzz. Minato Ward, Tokyo plays an important role as the setting for this work. This article provides a thorough introduction to “Oshi no Ko” sacred site pilgrimage spots centered on Minato Ward.
What Kind of Work is “Oshi no Ko”?
“Oshi no Ko” is a manga serialized in Weekly Young Jump from 2020 to 2024. The original work is by Akasaka Aka, known for “Kaguya-sama: Love is War,” and the illustrations are by Yokoyari Mengo.
The story centers on a shocking premise: Goro, who worked as an obstetrician in a regional city, is reincarnated as the twin children Aqua and Ruby of his favorite idol “Ai Hoshino.” After the tragedy of Ai’s death while shining as an idol, Aqua confronts the darkness of the entertainment industry, while Ruby pursues her dream of becoming an idol—the unique narrative structure intertwines realistic portrayals of the entertainment world, familial love, and suspense elements.
The anime’s first season aired in 2023, and the second season also aired in 2024. Additionally, a live-action drama version was distributed on Amazon Prime Video, and film and theatrical adaptations have been decided, with the work expanding across multiple formats.
Why Did Minato Ward, Tokyo Become the Setting for “Oshi no Ko”?
Minato Ward is one of the centers of Japan’s entertainment and entertainment industry. Areas such as Roppongi, Akasaka, Aoyama, and Odaiba are concentrated with television stations, entertainment agencies, high-end restaurants, and event venues, making it an ideal location to express the world of the entertainment industry depicted in “Oshi no Ko.”
Particularly, the Roppongi area possesses a unique atmosphere where the glamour of the nighttime streets intersects with business and entertainment. Many real locations in Minato Ward have become models for wrap-up party venues, live houses, and places where entertainers gather that appear in the work.
“Oshi no Ko” Sacred Site Pilgrimage Spots in Minato Ward, Tokyo—Detailed Guide
CEDAR THE CHOP HOUSE & BAR
Address: 〒106-0032 Rem Roppongi Building 2F, 7-14-4 Roppongi, Minato Ward, Tokyo
Access: 1 minute walk from Exit 4a of Roppongi Station on the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line
The model for the wrap-up party location of the drama “Kyo Ama” (Today is Sweet) featuring Aqua and Kana Arima, which appeared in anime episode 4. An American dining restaurant located in the heart of Roppongi where you can actually enjoy a luxurious atmosphere and authentic cuisine.
The interior is characterized by subdued lighting and modern décor, allowing you to experience the atmosphere of the wrap-up party scene from the work. It’s recommended to make a reservation in advance when visiting for a sacred site pilgrimage. Please check the official website for business hours and regular holidays.
Odaiba Marine Park
Address: 〒135-0091 1-4 Daiba, Minato Ward, Tokyo
Access: 3 minutes walk from Odaiba Marine Park Station on the Yurikamome, 10 minutes walk from Tokyo Teleport Station on the Rinkai Line
The model for the confession scene of “Kyo Gachi” (Today is Sweet, Tomorrow is Spicy) depicted in the anime. A beautiful landscape overlooking Tokyo Bay unfolds, with the Rainbow Bridge creating an especially romantic sunset view.
In the work, it is depicted as the setting for a quiet and touching scene, making it a must-see spot for fans. The park is spacious, and you can take in the world of the work while strolling. The time from evening to night is particularly ideal for recreating scenes from the work.
Maxell Aqua Park Shinagawa
Address: 〒108-8611 Shinagawa Prince Hotel, 4-10-30 Takanawa, Minato Ward, Tokyo
Access: 2 minutes walk from the Takanawa Exit of Shinagawa Station on JR and Keikyu
An aquarium used as a filming location for the live-action drama version of “Oshi no Ko.” In behind-the-scenes photos, scenes of Kaito Sakurai, who plays Aqua, and Mizuki Kayashima filming inside the aquarium have been released.
This urban entertainment facility features state-of-the-art production techniques and has plenty of highlights including dolphin shows and jellyfish exhibitions. It’s popular not only with “Oshi no Ko” fans but also as a dating spot.
Tokyo Dome
Address: 〒112-0004 1-3-61 Korakuen, Bunkyo Ward, Tokyo
Access: 5 minutes walk from Suidobashi Station on JR and the Tokyo Metro
Though technically outside Minato Ward, it’s an important spot depicted in the work as Ai Hoshino’s live concert venue. As Japan’s leading dome concert venue where many idols and artists hold performances, it symbolizes the world of “Oshi no Ko.”
This location, which symbolizes the era when Ai shined as a top idol, becomes the setting for a crucial turning point in the story. By attending actual concerts and events, you can more realistically feel the live scenes from the work.
Roppongi Hills and Surrounding Area
Address: 6-chome Roppongi, Minato Ward, Tokyo
Access: Directly connected to Roppongi Station on the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line
Roppongi, depicted in the work as an area where entertainment agencies and recording studios are concentrated. Roppongi Hills is a symbolic location that appears in the background. The high-rise buildings and refined streetscape simultaneously express both the glamour and strictness of the entertainment industry.
From the observation deck “Tokyo City View,” you can get a panoramic view of Tokyo’s skyline, making it ideal for grasping the overall landscape of Tokyo that became the setting for the work.
There’s Still More! “Oshi no Ko” Spots That Actually Exist Today
Akasaka Area
Akasaka in Minato Ward is known as an area with concentrated television stations. The TBS Akasaka Sacas and other locations serve as the center of the entertainment industry, and the atmosphere is reflected in the work. This area, where drama filming and variety show recordings take place daily, is an indispensable place to experience the world of “Oshi no Ko.”
Aoyama and Omotesando Area
The Aoyama and Omotesando area lined with high-end boutiques and cafés is a location with frequent celebrity sightings. Numerous stylish cafés and restaurants that characters might visit in private scenes exist in abundance.
Around Shiba Park
The area surrounding Shiba Park with views of Tokyo Tower also appears in the work’s background as a scenery representing Tokyo. The lush park in the urban setting is sometimes depicted as a place of brief respite for the characters.
What Route Is Recommended for “Oshi no Ko” Sacred Site Pilgrimage?
Here’s a model route for efficiently touring sacred sites centered on Minato Ward.
Half-Day Course (4–5 hours)
- Starting at Shinagawa Station: Maxell Aqua Park Shinagawa (1–2 hours)
- Transfer: To Odaiba via Yurikamome (approximately 20 minutes)
- Odaiba Marine Park (1 hour): Explore the confession scene sacred site
- Transfer: To Roppongi via Yurikamome and subway (approximately 30 minutes)
- CEDAR THE CHOP HOUSE & BAR: Lunch or dinner (1–2 hours)
- Around Roppongi Hills: Strolling and observation deck (1 hour)
Full-Day Course (7–8 hours)
In addition to the half-day course above:
- Exploring Akasaka Area (1 hour)
- Aoyama and Omotesando Area café break (1 hour)
- Extending to Tokyo Dome (Bunkyo Ward) (2 hours including travel)
Sacred Site Pilgrimage Pointers
- Photography Etiquette: Be considerate of other customers at restaurants and public facilities
- Confirming Business Hours: Particularly at restaurants, check business hours and holidays in advance
- IC Transit Cards: Having a Suica or PASMO card allows smooth transfers
- Comfortable Shoes: Minato Ward is surprisingly large, so comfortable shoes are recommended
“Oshi no Ko” Characters and Their Connection to Minato Ward
Ai Hoshino
The top idol holding the key to the story. She was active in Roppongi and Akasaka, centers of the entertainment industry, and Minato Ward was the stage for her brilliant career, including successful performances at Tokyo Dome.
Aquamarine Hoshino (Aqua)
The protagonist reborn as Ai’s son. As an actor in the entertainment industry, scenes are depicted of him visiting restaurants in Minato Ward for drama filming wrap-up parties. For him pursuing the truth behind his mother’s death, Minato Ward is a location holding important clues.
Ruby Hoshino
Reborn as Ai’s daughter and following in her mother’s footsteps as an idol. As a member of B-Komachi, live houses and event venues in Minato Ward are the dream stage for her.
Kana Arima
A former child acting genius who pursues acting alongside Aqua. CEDAR THE CHOP HOUSE & BAR, which appeared in the “Kyo Ama” wrap-up party scene, symbolizes an important milestone in her career.
Live-Action Drama and Film Version Minato Ward Filming Location Information
The live-action drama version of “Oshi no Ko” distributed in 2024 features new filming locations different from the anime version.
Characteristics of the Drama Version
The live-action drama version distributed on Amazon Prime Video stars Kaito Sakurai as Aqua and Hiyori Saito as Ruby. To recreate the realistic atmosphere of the entertainment industry, numerous entertainment-related facilities and luxury restaurants in Minato Ward were used.
Film Version Developments
A film adaptation has also been decided, and additional filming locations are anticipated. Minato Ward is likely to remain an important filming location, so keep an eye on future announcements.
“Oshi no Ko”-Related Events and Minato Ward
Exhibitions and Events
In the past, “TV Anime ‘Oshi no Ko’ Exhibition: Lies and Ai” was held at Ikebukuro PARCO and other large-scale exhibitions have been conducted. Popup stores and collaboration cafés may be held within Minato Ward in the future.
Theatrical Version
The theatrical version “2.5-Dimensional Stage Edition of ‘Oshi no Ko'” has also been performed, expanding into theatrical arts. When performances are held at theaters in Tokyo, venues in the Minato Ward area may be used.
Attractions of Minato Ward That Can Be Enjoyed Alongside Sacred Site Pilgrimages
Gourmet Spots
Minato Ward is one of Japan’s premier gourmet areas. Roppongi, Azabu, and Akasaka have a diverse selection of dining establishments, from Michelin-starred restaurants to casual cafés. You can enjoy authentic dining between sacred site visits.
Shopping
Large commercial facilities such as Roppongi Hills, Midtown, and Omotesando Hills are well-equipped. Anime shops and bookstores handling “Oshi no Ko”-related merchandise are scattered throughout.
Cultural Facilities
World-class art museums and museums gather, including the National Art Center, Mori Art Museum, and Suntory Museum of Art. You can spend a fulfilling day combining sacred site pilgrimage with cultural experiences.
Points to Note During “Oshi no Ko” Sacred Site Pilgrimages
Privacy Consideration
At restaurants and commercial facilities, be considerate of other users’ privacy and refrain from loud conversations or excessive photography.
Compliance with Facility Rules
Each facility has its own rules. Avoid entering photography-prohibited areas and restricted zones.
Consideration During Busy Times
Particularly on weekends and holidays, these areas may be crowded with tourists. Avoid prolonged stays or space reservations and maintain a spirit of cooperation.
Caution When Posting on SNS
When posting about your sacred site pilgrimage on SNS, be considerate so other people don’t appear in photos, and be careful about sharing location information.
Conclusion: The Deep Connection Between “Oshi no Ko” and Minato Ward, Tokyo
In the narrative of “Oshi no Ko,” Minato Ward is not merely a background but an important narrative device that reflects the realistic nature of the entertainment industry. The glittering night scenery of Roppongi, the open waterfront of Odaiba, urban entertainment in Shinagawa—these actual locations provide depth and credibility to the stories of Ai, Aqua, and Ruby.
“Oshi no Ko” expands across various media: anime, drama, film, and theater. What all have in common is the unique charm held by Minato Ward as a setting. Through sacred site pilgrimages, you can gain a deeper understanding of the work’s world and experience the paths walked by the characters, further deepening your affection for “Oshi no Ko.”
When visiting the spots introduced in this article, remember to show respect for the work and maintain good manners, being considerate of other visitors and local residents. Doing so will make “Oshi no Ko” sacred site pilgrimages a better experience for both fans and the community.
Find your own “Oshi no Ko” experience in Minato Ward, Tokyo. At locations that became settings for the story, reexperience the work’s emotional impact and discover something new on a journey surely awaiting you.
