“If My Favorite Pop Star Made It to the Budokan, I Would Die” Okayama Prefecture Sacred Site Pilgrimage Complete Guide
The Deep Connection Between “Oshi-Budokan” and Okayama Prefecture
“Oshiga Budokan Ittekuretara Shinu” (literally “If My Favorite Pop Star Made It to the Budokan, I Would Die,” abbreviated as “Oshi-Budokan”), a manga by Auri Hirao, is set in Okayama City, Okayama Prefecture, and depicts the lives of the underground idol group “ChamJam” and their passionate fans. Published by Tokuma Shoten, this work has surpassed 1.5 million copies in cumulative circulation and has been adapted into anime, a live-action drama, and a theatrical film.
Okayama Prefecture was chosen as the setting because author Auri Hirao is from Okayama Prefecture, and it perfectly matched the work’s concept of realistically depicting the underground idol scene in a regional city. Many real locations featured in the work—such as Okayama Station, Hyakucho Shopping Street, Okayama Castle, and Korakuen Garden—have become pilgrimage sites for fans.
Work Introduction: A Life-Encouraging Story That Reaches Everyone’s Heart
Story Overview
The protagonist Eripiyo (Sayuri Matsumura) was once a nobody working as a free worker, but three years before the story begins, she meets Sayana Ichii (Hina Irei), a member of Okayama’s local underground idol group ChamJam, at a Tanabata Festival and experiences her first romantic thrill. Since then, she has devoted herself to supporting Sayana alone and has become known as a legendary fan.
The charm of this work lies not in simply depicting an idol otaku’s story but rather in how meeting one’s “favorite idol” can change a life—a life-encouragement movie that everyone can relate to. The work depicts both comically and realistically how fans pour most of their income into supporting their favorite idol and how idols strive to reach the Budokan.
Characters and Their Connection to Okayama Prefecture
Members of ChamJam include a character with a setting of being from Wakegun Town, Okayama Prefecture. Leveraging this setting, the town has launched town development projects including appointing the character as an official influencer and establishing a limited edition merchandise fan club. This has drawn attention as an excellent example of regional collaboration with anime works.
Sacred Sites Around Okayama Station
Okayama Station
Okayama Station, the gateway to Okayama Prefecture, is an important stage that appears multiple times throughout the work. It appears in the anime version, drama version, and theatrical film, showing scenes of Eripiyo heading to ChamJam events and members moving about.
Access Information:
- Served by JR Sanyo Shinkansen, Sanyo Main Line, Ako Line, Tsuyama Line, and Kibi Line
- About 30 minutes by limousine bus from Okayama Airport
- Shopping facilities such as “Sunste Okayama” are available within the station
The appearance of the station plaza and the station interior has been faithfully recreated, making it an ideal starting point for sacred site pilgrimage. The area around the Momotaro statue on the east exit is particularly popular as a photo spot.
Hyakucho Shopping Street
Hyakucho Shopping Street, located in the center of Okayama City, frequently appears in ChamJam event scenes and members’ daily life scenes. The atmosphere of the arcade shopping street is realistically depicted in the work, and walking through it in person allows you to immerse yourself in the work’s worldview.
Pilgrimage Points:
- An arcade shopping street approximately 900 meters long
- A short walk from Okayama Station via streetcar to the “Shiroした” stop
- Lined with restaurants, miscellaneous goods shops, bookstores, and more
- Used as an actual filming location in the theatrical version, where a red carpet event was also held
During the release of the theatrical version, a premiere event was held on Hyakucho Shopping Street where cast members including Riho Nakamura, members of @onefive, Hina Irei, and director Kentaro Otani walked the red carpet. This became an unforgettable event for Okayama residents and fans.
Okayama Castle and Korakuen Garden Area Sacred Sites
Okayama Castle
Okayama Castle, also known as “Ujō” (Raven Castle) because of its jet-black exterior, appears in scenes where characters go on dates and stroll around. The view from the main keep and the scenic beauty of the Asahi River flowing around the castle are beautifully depicted.
Tourist Information:
- Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM (Last entry at 5:00 PM)
- Admission: Adults ¥400, Elementary and Middle School Students ¥100
- 10 minutes by streetcar from Okayama Station to the “Shiroした” stop, then a 10-minute walk
- Reopened after renovation in November 2022
Korakuen Garden
Korakuen Garden, one of Japan’s three most famous gardens, also appears as an important setting in the work. The beautiful scenery of each season is depicted, and the background is used effectively to express the characters’ emotions.
Pilgrimage Points:
- Hours: 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM (varies by season)
- Admission: Adults ¥410, Age 65+ ¥140
- Combination ticket with Okayama Castle available (Adults ¥640)
- Multiple photo spots are scattered throughout the vast gardens
Ikeda Zoo and Surrounding Spots
Ikeda Zoo
Ikeda Zoo, located in Kita Ward, Okayama City, appears in scenes where ChamJam members visit on their own time. This zoo retains a retro atmosphere and is beloved by local residents.
Facility Information:
- Hours: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM (4:30 PM – February 2)
- Admission: Adults ¥1,100, High School ¥880, Elementary and Middle School ¥660
- About 12 minutes on foot from “Kyoyama Entrance” bus stop from Okayama Station’s west exit
- Houses approximately 110 species of animals
The work impressively features scenes of characters conversing while viewing animals, making it a popular pilgrimage spot among fans.
Bicchu-Takamatsu Station and Its Surroundings
Bicchu-Takamatsu Station
Bicchu-Takamatsu Station on the JR Kibi Line appears in scenes of Eripiyo’s daily life. It is a small station set in a pastoral landscape and provides a feel for the atmosphere of a regional city.
Access:
- About 20 minutes from Okayama Station on the JR Kibi Line (Momotaro Line)
- Unmanned station with IC card available
- Bicchu-Takamatsu Castle ruins, famous for water attack, are nearby
The station building and station plaza scenery have been faithfully recreated in the work, making it an essential pilgrimage site for fans.
Wake Town: A Sacred Site of Municipal Collaboration
Wake Town and “Oshi-Budokan” Collaboration
Wake Town, Okayama Prefecture, has officially launched collaborative projects leveraging the setting that a character who appears in the work is from Wake Town.
Collaboration Content:
- The character is appointed as Wake Town’s official influencer
- Establishment of a limited merchandise “Oshi-Budokan” fan club
- Collaborative posters and panels installed at various locations in the town
- Collaborative product development with local specialty products
Attractions in Wake Town
Wake Town has many attractive tourist spots beyond the work itself:
- Wake Shrine: Shrine dedicated to Kiyomaro Wake
- Fuji Park: Known for Japan’s largest wisteria trellis (Best viewed late April – early May)
- Wake Ukai Valley Hot Spring: A hot spring facility where day-use bathing is available
The charm lies in being able to enjoy Wake Town tourism in addition to sacred site pilgrimage.
Theatrical Version Location Information
Locations Unique to the Live-Action Version
“Oshi ga Budokan Ittekuretara Shinu,” released nationwide on May 12, 2023, featured talented cast including Sayuri Matsumura (Nogizaka46’s first starring role after graduation) filming at various locations throughout Okayama Prefecture.
Major Filming Locations:
- Around Okayama Station: Opening scenes and character movement scenes
- Hyakucho Shopping Street: ChamJam event scenes, members’ daily scenes
- Okayama Castle and Korakuen Garden: Important confession scenes and emotional backgrounds
- Asahi River Riverside: Scenes of members talking with each other
- Live Houses in Okayama City: ChamJam performance scenes
Theatrical Version Release Commemoration Events
Various events were held in Okayama City to commemorate the theatrical version’s release:
- Red carpet event at Hyakucho Shopping Street (with cast members)
- Stage greetings at movie theaters in Okayama City
- Limited-time opening of collaboration cafes
- Distribution of sacred site pilgrimage maps
These events captivated not only Okayama residents but also fans nationwide, significantly contributing to tourism promotion.
Drama Version Filming Locations
Drama Version’s Unique Filming Locations
The drama version of “Oshi ga Budokan Ittekuretara Shinu” was also filmed at many locations in Okayama Prefecture. Some locations differ from the anime and theatrical versions, expanding the scope of sacred site pilgrimage.
Drama Version Specific Filming Locations:
- Commercial Facilities in Okayama City: Appear as Eripiyo’s part-time work location
- Residential Area Locations: Surroundings of characters’ homes
- Parks in Okayama City: Scenes of members practicing
- Karaoke Box: Scenes of fan interactions
The drama version is characterized by allowing viewers to enjoy realistic Okayama cityscapes unique to live-action production.
Recommended Sacred Site Pilgrimage Courses
Efficient One-Day Pilgrimage Course
“Oshi-Budokan” sacred sites in Okayama Prefecture are relatively compact, making it possible to visit all major spots in one day.
Recommended Model Course:
Morning (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
- Okayama Station (9:00 AM) – Photograph the station interior and plaza
- Move by streetcar (10 minutes)
- Okayama Castle and Korakuen Garden (9:30 AM – 11:30 AM) – Leisurely sightseeing
Lunch (12:00 PM – 1:00 PM)
- Enjoy Okayama gourmet at Hyakucho Shopping Street
Afternoon (1:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
- Stroll through Hyakucho Shopping Street (1:00 PM – 2:00 PM)
- Move by streetcar/bus to Ikeda Zoo (2:30 PM – 4:00 PM)
- Return to Okayama Station and shop for souvenirs (4:30 PM – 5:00 PM)
Two-Day Course for Leisurely Pilgrimage
For those with more time, we recommend spending two days exploring Okayama Prefecture.
Day 1: Central Okayama City
- Around Okayama Station
- Hyakucho Shopping Street
- Okayama Castle and Korakuen Garden
- Ikeda Zoo
Day 2: Outlying Areas and Wake Town
- Bicchu-Takamatsu Station
- Wake Town (Wake Shrine, Fuji Park, etc.)
- Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter if time permits
This course allows you to immerse yourself deeply in the work’s worldview while fully experiencing the charms of Okayama Prefecture.
Helpful Information for Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Official Sites and Pilgrimage Maps
The official tourism website for Okayama Prefecture features a special “Oshi-Budokan” page providing detailed filming location maps and pilgrimage information.
Available Information:
- Sacred site maps (PDF and web versions)
- Detailed information about each location and access methods
- Work introductions and special interviews
- Latest event information
By checking the official site in advance, you can plan an efficient pilgrimage.
Transportation and Access
Ways to Move Around Okayama City:
- Streetcar (Okayama Electric Railway)
- Convenient for accessing major spots from Okayama Station
- All-day pass: Adults ¥400, Children ¥200
- Travel time for main sections: About 5 minutes from Okayama Station to Shiroした
- Bus
- Okaden Bus and Ryobi Bus cover the city
- IC card usable
- Convenient for access to suburban areas like Ikeda Zoo
- Rental Bicycle
- Multiple rental bicycle spots around Okayama Station
- “Momo-Chari” (bicycle sharing) is convenient
- All-day rental: ¥300 and up
- Taxi
- Taxi stand available at Okayama Station
- Taxi dispatch apps also available
Accommodation Information
Okayama City offers various types of accommodations:
Hotels Around Okayama Station:
- Ranging from business hotels to luxury hotels
- Excellent access, ideal as a pilgrimage base
- Price range: Approximately ¥5,000 – ¥15,000
Around Hyakucho Shopping Street:
- Guest houses and capsule hotels available
- Also enjoy nighttime shopping street strolls
- Price range: Approximately ¥3,000 – ¥8,000
Gourmet Information
Okayama gourmet to enjoy between sacred site visits:
- Demi-Katsudon: Okayama soul food
- Mamakari Sushi: Okayama local cuisine
- Ebimaeshi: B-class gourmet originating from Okayama
- Fruit Parfaits: Unique to Okayama, a fruit kingdom
- Dishes using Momotaro Tomatoes: Okayama specialty
Many restaurants serving these delicacies are available around Hyakucho Shopping Street and Okayama Station.
Precautions and Etiquette While Pilgrimage
Photography Etiquette
When taking photos during sacred site pilgrimage, keep these points in mind:
- No trespassing on private property: Photograph from public areas only
- Ask for permission in shops: Always get permission before photographing
- Be considerate of other tourists: Avoid occupying spaces for long periods
- Don’t obstruct traffic: Don’t block sidewalks or roadways
- Be mindful of noise: Keep quiet in residential areas
Consideration for Local Residents
Sacred site pilgrimage is a form of tourism, but it also encompasses local residents’ living spaces:
- Always take your trash with you
- Avoid loud conversations late at night or early morning
- Use designated parking areas
- Follow local rules
By following etiquette, the environment for sacred site pilgrimage can be maintained for future enjoyment.
Deepening Appreciation of the Work: Differences Between Anime, Drama, and Theatrical Versions
Characteristics of the Anime Version
The anime version, broadcast in the winter of 2020, faithfully recreates the original manga’s worldview.
Highlights of the Anime Version:
- Character design utilizing Auri Hirao’s original artwork
- Carefully depicted background art of Okayama’s scenery
- Actually listening to ChamJam’s music
- Emotional expression through the voice actors’ passionate performances
Characteristics of the Drama Version
The drama version’s charm lies in its realism and the actual Okayama scenery unique to live-action.
Highlights of the Drama Version:
- Filming on location with real Okayama scenery
- Humanistic performances by the cast
- Original story developments different from the anime
- The immediacy of actual live scenes
Characteristics of the Theatrical Version
The theatrical version is an even larger-scale work than the drama version.
Highlights of the Theatrical Version:
- Beautiful Okayama scenery enjoyable on the big screen
- Deeper exploration of characters’ emotions
- Impressive live scenes with a stellar cast
- A moving climax unique to film
Each medium has distinct charms, and experiencing all versions deepens understanding of the work.
Surrounding Tourist Attractions
Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter
If you visit Okayama Prefecture, we also recommend visiting the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter.
Attractions of Kurashiki Bikan:
- Beautiful scenery with preserved Edo-period townscape
- The distinctive sight of white-walled storehouses and willow trees lining the Kurashiki River
- Cultural facilities including the Ohara Museum of Art
- About 15 minutes by JR Sanyo Main Line from Okayama Station
Seto Inland Sea Islands
If you have time, a trip to the Seto Inland Sea islands is also recommended.
Accessible Islands:
- Naoshima: Renowned as an island of contemporary art
- Teshima: Museums and nature in harmony
- Inujima: Art projects underway
Accessible by ferry from Uno Port in Okayama Prefecture.
Fan Community and Event Information
Online Communities
“Oshi-Budokan” fans form an active community primarily on SNS:
- Twitter (X): Hashtags “#推し武道” “#推し武道聖地巡礼”
- Instagram: Popular for sharing sacred site pilgrimage photos
- Fan Sites: Pilgrimage reports and information exchange
Regularly Held Events
Events related to “Oshi-Budokan” are regularly held in Okayama Prefecture:
Major Past Events:
- Limited-time opening of collaboration cafes
- Stamp rally projects
- Talkshows with voice actors and cast
- Original art exhibitions and panel exhibitions
Latest event information can be found on the official site and Okayama Prefecture tourism website.
Impact of “Oshi-Budokan” on Okayama Prefecture
Contribution to Tourism Promotion
“Oshi ga Budokan Ittekuretara Shinu” has significantly contributed to Okayama Prefecture’s tourism promotion:
Specific Effects:
- Increase in tourists motivated by sacred site pilgrimage
- Growing interest in Okayama Prefecture among younger generations
- Enhanced recognition through SNS information dissemination
- Ripple effects on the local economy
Examples of Regional Revitalization
Collaboration projects with municipalities like Wake Town have attracted attention as successful examples of anime tourism:
- Development of collaborative products with specialty items
- Implementation of official events
- Formation of local residents’ affection for the work
- Sustained relationship-building with fans
These efforts serve as advanced references for other municipalities.
Summary: The Charm of “Oshi-Budokan” Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Sacred site pilgrimage for “Oshi ga Budokan Ittekuretara Shinu” offers value beyond simply visiting filming locations. You can experience something special where Okayama Prefecture’s beautiful scenery, warm-hearted community people, and affection for the work converge.
Summary of Sacred Site Pilgrimage Charm:
- Accessibility: Major spots are compactly arranged
- Diverse Enjoyment: Sacred sites from anime, drama, and theatrical versions
- Combination with Tourism: Abundant tourist attractions like Okayama Castle and Korakuen Garden
- Cuisine: Distinctive Okayama dishes
- Community Integration: Official municipal collaborations ensure safe pilgrimage
Just as meeting one’s “favorite idol” can change a life, a sacred site pilgrimage in Okayama Prefecture will surely make your travel memories special. Please use this guide to visit Okayama Prefecture and experience the world of “Oshi-Budokan.”
The official Okayama Prefecture tourism website continuously updates the latest sacred site information and event details. Be sure to check before departure for a fulfilling sacred site pilgrimage experience.
