【Weathering with You】Atami Building Complete Guide｜Thorough Explanation of the Sacred Site in Shinjuku Kabukicho
In director Makoto Shinkai’s blockbuster film “Weathering with You,” the place where numerous scenes serving as important turning points in the story are depicted is the “Atami Building” located in Shinjuku Kabukicho. The place where the protagonist Hodaka meets the stray cat Ame, picks up “something” that changes his fate, and reunites with Hina is known as a sacred site pilgrimage spot visited by many fans.
In this article, we provide comprehensive information essential for “Weathering with You” fans, from detailed information about the Atami Building to its appearances in the film, practical visiting methods, and nearby sacred sites.
What is the Atami Building? A Real Shared Tenement Building in Kabukicho
Basic Information and Access
Address: 〒160-0021 Shinjuku Ward, Shinjuku, Kabukicho 2-chome 27-8, Tokyo
Access Methods:
- Approximately 10 minutes walk from JR Shinjuku Station East Exit
- Approximately 7 minutes walk from Seibu Shinjuku Station
- Approximately 8 minutes walk from Higashi-Shinjuku Station (Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line/Toei Oedo Line)
The Atami Building is a typical shared tenement building located in the depths of Shinjuku Kabukicho. The building houses numerous karaoke shops and restaurants (mostly izakayas), creating an atmosphere distinctly characteristic of Kabukicho. The surrounding area is densely packed with similar dining establishments and entertainment facilities, creating a unique landscape illuminated by neon signs at night.
Characteristics of the Actual Building
The exterior of the Atami Building is reproduced very faithfully in the film. At the building’s entrance, there is a sign reading “Atami Building” written horizontally, and the surrounding atmosphere nearly matches the scenes in the film.
The “overwhelming realism” characteristic of director Shinkai’s works is prominently evident in the depiction of the Atami Building. However, it is interesting to note that the film subtly changes the names of actual shops.
Differences Between Film and Actual Shop Names:
- Karaoke Pub 45 → Actually “Karaoke Pub 55”
- 123 4F → Actually “121 4F”
- 3F SIDE → Actually “3F SIKI”
These minor changes are typically made out of consideration for actual shops, and this is a common technique in director Shinkai’s works.
Important Scenes at the Atami Building in “Weathering with You”
Scene 1: Hodaka and Ame’s First Meeting
Early in the story, Hodaka, a high school first-year who ran away from home and came to Tokyo, lived in impoverished circumstances with no job prospects. Unable to find work despite searching for days, an exhausted Hodaka crouched down under the eaves of the Atami Building.
Sitting next to a garbage can at the building’s entrance, Hodaka encounters a stray cat. Sharing his Calorie Mate with the cat, Hodaka later names the cat “Ame” and continues to keep it at Suga’s office.
Illuminated by softly glowing neon in the darkness of night, this scene symbolically depicts Hodaka’s loneliness and anxiety, as well as the coldness and danger of Tokyo as a major city.
Scene 2: The Discovery of the “Gun” That Changes Fate
In the same location where Hodaka met Ame, near the garbage cans of the Atami Building, he discovers a “gun” that greatly influences the course of the story. This gun later becomes a crucial item for saving Hina, while simultaneously causing Hodaka to be pursued by police.
Through the Atami Building, director Shinkai depicts the boundary line where Hodaka crosses from the “ordinary” into the “extraordinary.” This building, existing in the depths of Kabukicho where the eyes of the law barely reach, functions precisely as a “gateway to a dangerous world.”
Scene 3: Reunion with Hina and the Rescue Operation
In the middle of the story, Hodaka encounters Hina again near the Atami Building. In this scene, Hodaka rescues Hina, who is being taken away by a scout, using the gun he found earlier.
This rescue operation serves as a critical turning point that defines the relationship between Hodaka and Hina and becomes the catalyst for their bond deepening. Simultaneously, Hodaka’s firing of the gun results in him being pursued by police, and the story enters a dramatic climax.
By serving as the stage for multiple important scenes, the Atami Building becomes an indispensable location in the narrative of “Weathering with You.”
What Kind of Film is “Weathering with You”? Director Shinkai’s Latest Work
Film Overview
“Weathering with You” is a feature-length animated film directed by Makoto Shinkai, released on July 19, 2019. Following the social phenomenon created by the previous work “Your Name,” it was highly anticipated and achieved a major box office success with over 1.4 billion yen in revenue.
Story:
In the summer of his first year of high school, Hodaka runs away from his island home to Tokyo. However, his life quickly becomes impoverished, and the job he finally finds amid his lonely days is the dubious work of a writer for an occult magazine. In the midst of unrelenting rain and the bustling crowds of the city, Hodaka meets Hina, a girl with the ability to be a “sunshine girl” who can make it sunny.
The Film’s Themes and Appeal
“Weathering with You” depicts the growth and choices of young people, as well as issues facing contemporary society, through the universal theme of “weather.” Director Shinkai’s characteristic beautiful visual expression, particularly the depiction of rain and light, is stunning, capturing the diverse faces of Tokyo as a city beautifully.
The music by RADWIMPS also enhances the film’s appeal, with songs such as “Is There Still Anything Love Can Do?” and “Grand Escape” remaining in the hearts of many people.
Differences From the Previous Work “Your Name”
While the previous work “Your Name” thematized “miraculous meetings and reunions,” “Weathering with You” depicts a more personal and urgent choice: “Things More Important Than the World.” Hodaka’s decision to choose the person in front of him over societal rules and conventions generated both praise and criticism while garnering widespread empathy.
The Characters of Weathering with You and Their Connection to the Atami Building
Morishima Hodaka
The protagonist of the film. A 16-year-old high school first-year who feels suffocated by life on his island and runs away to Tokyo. The Atami Building becomes a symbolic place where Hodaka faces the harsh realities of Tokyo. Here he meets Ame, finds a gun, and rescues Hina, setting Hodaka’s story in motion.
Amano Hina
The film’s heroine. Fifteen years old. A girl living with her younger brother Nagi who possesses the ability to be a “sunshine girl” who can make it sunny through prayer. She is rescued by Hodaka when about to be taken away by a scout near the Atami Building, deepening their relationship.
Suga Keisuke
A writer for an occult magazine who hires Hodaka. Though he may appear careless at first glance, he also possesses a kindness toward Hodaka. After Hodaka meets Ame, Suga keeps the cat at his office.
Practical Guide to Atami Building Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Precautions When Visiting
The Atami Building is an actual operating business building, and the surrounding area is an entertainment district. When making a sacred site pilgrimage, please note the following points.
Visiting Precautions:
- Do not interfere with business – The shops in the building are operating. Refrain from lingering long at the entrance or speaking loudly
- Be especially careful during evening visits – The atmosphere of Kabukicho changes at night. Visits alone are discouraged; traveling in groups is recommended
- Photography etiquette – Be considerate of passersby and shops. Use flash photography sparingly
- Take trash with you – Ensure the sacred site remains clean by taking all trash with you
- No entry to private property – The building interior is private property. Do not enter without permission
Recommended Photography Times
While scenes in the film primarily occur at night, the following times are recommended for sacred site pilgrimage.
Daytime (14:00–17:00):
- High safety and ability to photograph calmly
- The building’s exterior is clearly visible
- Other nearby sacred sites are easier to visit
Evening to Night (18:00–20:00):
- Atmosphere closer to the film
- Neon signs begin to light, making it easier to recreate film scenes
- However, increased foot traffic requires caution during photography
Recommended Photography Spots
- Building front entrance – Position where the “Atami Building” sign is visible
- Near the garbage cans – Where Hodaka met Ame (be careful not to obstruct foot traffic)
- Diagonally across – Allows capturing the entire building
- Neon at night – Nighttime neon signs are worth photographing to recreate the film’s atmosphere
“Weathering with You” Sacred Sites Around Shinjuku
It is recommended to visit other sacred sites around Shinjuku while visiting the Atami Building.
Manga Kissa Manbō Shinjuku Yasukuni-dori Branch
The internet cafe where Hodaka stayed for some time. It is depicted as Hodaka’s place to stay while struggling with life in Tokyo. It is approximately 15 minutes walk from the Atami Building.
Address: 1-chome Kabukicho, Shinjuku Ward, Tokyo
McDonald’s Seibu Shinjuku Station Front Store
The place where Hodaka and Hina first meet. The scene where Hina offers Hodaka a hamburger in the rain is memorable. It is approximately 5 minutes walk from the Atami Building.
Address: 1-chome Kabukicho, Shinjuku Ward, Tokyo
Tenka Ippin Kabukicho Store
The setting for a scene where Hodaka receives 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 frequently visits for drinks. It is an area where visitors can experience the unique atmosphere of Kabukicho.
Yoyogi Kaikan
The building where the “K&A Planning” office, where Hodaka is hired by Suga to work, is located. It is a distinctive building with a shrine on its rooftop.
Address: 1-chome Yoyogi, Shibuya Ward, Tokyo
Efficient Sacred Site Pilgrimage Model Course
Here is a model course for efficiently visiting “Weathering with You” sacred sites in the Shinjuku area.
Half-Day Course (Duration: Approximately 3–4 hours)
START: JR Shinjuku Station East Exit (10:00)
↓ 5 minutes walk
① McDonald’s Seibu Shinjuku Station Front Store (10:05–10:20)
- Where Hodaka and Hina meet
- Exterior photography and surrounding exploration
↓ 3 minutes walk
② Tenka Ippin Kabukicho Store (10:23–10:35)
- Setting for the police questioning scene
- Dining also available (check operating hours)
↓ 5 minutes walk
③ Atami Building (10:40–11:20)
- Main spot
- Detailed photography and surrounding exploration
↓ 8 minutes walk
④ Manga Kissa Manbō Shinjuku Yasukuni-dori Branch (11:28–11:45)
- Where Hodaka stayed
- Exterior photography
↓ 15 minutes walk
⑤ Shinjuku Golden Gai (12:00–12:30)
- Where Suga visits for drinks
- Quiet during daytime, easier to photograph
↓ 20 minutes walk
⑥ Yoyogi Kaikan (12:50–13:30)
- K&A Planning office
- The rooftop shrine is also worth seeing
GOAL: Yoyogi Station or Shinjuku Station (14:00)
Full-Day Course (Duration: Approximately 7–8 hours)
You can visit the following additional spots along with the half-day course.
Afternoon Additional Spots:
⑦ Roppongi Hills
- Where Suga’s ex-wife Asuka works
- Tokyo views from the observation deck are also enjoyable
⑧ Tabata Station Area
- Where Hodaka arrives in Tokyo by boat
⑨ Odaiba/Daiba Seaside Park
- Setting for the fireworks display scene
- The scenery is beautiful at dusk
Enjoying the Kabukicho Area Around the Atami Building
History and Culture of Kabukicho
Kabukicho is known as Japan’s largest entertainment district. It was planned as a “culturally-oriented area centered around a kabuki theater” during Japan’s post-war reconstruction period, which is the origin of its name, but it actually developed as a busy commercial district with numerous dining and entertainment establishments.
Director Shinkai appears to have chosen Kabukicho as a place symbolizing “the light and shadow of Tokyo.” The loneliness and danger lurking behind the flashy neon signs, and the warmth of human connection—”Weathering with You” beautifully portrays these multifaceted aspects of Kabukicho.
Tips for Safe Enjoyment
While Kabukicho is popular as a tourist destination, it is also an evening entertainment district. Here are tips for enjoying it safely.
- Daytime visits recommended – For sacred site pilgrimages, 14:00–18:00 is best
- Travel in groups – Especially avoid solo travel at night
- Decline solicitation – Firmly refuse persistent solicitation
- Protect valuables – Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
- Be wary of drunk people – Many intoxicated individuals at night; maintain distance
Understanding “Weathering with You” More Deeply
What “Rain” and “Sunshine” Symbolize
In “Weathering with You,” “rain” is not merely a meteorological phenomenon. The unrelenting rain symbolizes the stagnation of contemporary society, the anxiety of young people, and confusion about our ever-changing world.
On the other hand, the “sunshine” that Hina brings represents temporary hope and salvation. However, the setting where Hina herself becomes a sacrifice to bring this sunshine expresses society’s contradiction that “someone’s happiness requires someone else’s sacrifice.”
The dark, rain-soaked Kabukicho depicted in the Atami Building scenes 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.” The Shinjuku Kabukicho area in particular is carefully depicted as a place where beauty and fragility coexist.
By faithfully reproducing actual locations like the Atami Building, viewers gain a sense of immersion where they feel “I too can enter the world of this story.” This is one reason why sacred site pilgrimages for Shinkai’s works have 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 during scenes where Hodaka and Hina rush through Tokyo, building toward the climax of the story.
Listening to the film’s music while visiting the Atami Building will allow you to immerse yourself more deeply in the world of the work.
Trivia for Enhanced Sacred Site Pilgrimage Enjoyment
Director Shinkai’s Research Methods
Director Shinkai is known for visiting the settings of his works multiple times, conducting photography and sketching. For “Weathering with You,” he reportedly conducted thorough research of the Shinjuku Kabukicho area, carefully observing changes in scenery due to time of day and weather conditions.
The faithful reproduction even of the Atami Building’s sign and the arrangement of surrounding shops is the 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, the building’s structure and overall atmosphere have been maintained, so there is ample opportunity to enjoy comparing the film scenes with reality.
Information Sharing on Social Media
On social media platforms like Twitter and Instagram, many fans share their visiting records using hashtags such as “#WeatheringwithYouSacredSite” and “#AtamiBuilding.” Checking these posts before visiting can provide information about the current situation and photography tips.
Conclusion: Experience the World of “Weathering with You” at the Atami Building
The Atami Building in Shinjuku Kabukicho is an indispensable setting in the narrative of “Weathering with You.” Hodaka’s meeting with Ame, the discovery of a gun that changes fate, the rescue of Hina—all of these occur at this location.
Visiting in person reveals director Shinkai’s remarkable powers of observation and recreation. The building’s sign, the surrounding atmosphere, the light of the neon—everything matches the scenes in the film exactly.
When making your sacred site pilgrimage, be sure to pay careful attention to etiquette and safety while fully enjoying the world of “Weathering with You.” By using the Atami Building as a starting point and visiting other sacred sites in the Shinjuku area, you can understand and enjoy the work even more deeply.
“Weathering with You” depicts the light and shadow of Tokyo as a major city and the lives of young people living there. Why not become part of the story yourself at the Atami Building, this symbolic location?
Access Information (Repeated):
- Address: 〒160-0021 Kabukicho 2-chome 27-8, Shinjuku Ward, Tokyo
- Nearest stations: Approximately 10 minutes walk from JR Shinjuku Station East Exit, approximately 7 minutes walk from Seibu Shinjuku Station
- Recommended visiting time: 14:00–18:00 (recommended for safety and ease of photography)
- Duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour (including photography and surrounding exploration)
Please confirm with your own eyes the Tokyo scenery depicted by director Shinkai.
