One of the most remarkable aspects of great anime is their breathtaking settings. Among them, the enchanting cityscapes stand out, capturing the hearts of viewers. Whether you're a dedicated anime fan or just an admirer of beautiful destinations, these real-world locations that inspired iconic anime are truly worth exploring.
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Step Into the World of Your Favorite Anime! Stunning Cityscapes That Inspired Popular Series
Overseas Cities That Became the Setting of Japanese Anime
Among anime fans, "pilgrimage to sacred sites" has become a trend, and many Japanese anime are set in overseas locations. While some are purely original creations by the creators, many works are also inspired by real places.
Some anime do not explicitly state their real-world settings, but the resemblance between the anime and the actual place is striking. Seeing it with your own eyes may make the anime even more enjoyable.
Since these places have been chosen as settings for anime, just looking at them is enough to immerse yourself in the anime world.
Now, let’s take a look at some cities around the world that are said to be the settings of Japanese anime.
Dubrovnik, Croatia: Kiki’s Delivery Service
What stands out is the breathtaking sight of white walls and uniformly orange rooftops, creating a beautiful and magical atmosphere. This town, often called the "Pearl of the Adriatic," looks like a fairytale world.
It is said that this Croatian city of Dubrovnik might have been the inspiration for one of Studio Ghibli’s masterpieces, Kiki’s Delivery Service, due to its striking resemblance. The aerial view of the city looks just like Kiki’s world.
The vast blue sea and sky remind us of the scenes where Kiki soars on her broomstick. The historic cobblestone streets make it feel like an adventure is waiting around every corner. The medieval townscape is a must-visit for Ghibli fans!
Jiufen (Taiwan): Spirited Away
As a Studio Ghibli work, Spirited Away is also famous.
The bathhouse run by Yubaba is a unique building, and it is said that its setting was inspired by Jiufen in Taiwan. The movie has a mysterious atmosphere that feels both Chinese and Japanese, and the real Jiufen has the same nostalgic charm. Since rumors spread that Jiufen was the setting for Spirited Away, the number of tourists has increased.
Among the attractions, A-Mei Tea House is a building that closely resembles the bathhouse. The red lanterns, the food similar to what appears in the movie, and the bustling street stalls all create a nostalgic atmosphere, making visitors feel as if they have stepped into the world of the movie. The best time to visit Jiufen is in the evening when the lanterns are lit, offering a vibrant and stunning view.
Colmar (France): Howl’s Moving Castle
Another Ghibli masterpiece, Howl’s Moving Castle, is said to have been inspired by Colmar in the Alsace region of France. The colorful half-timbered houses, vibrant flowers, and distinctive signs in the old town make it look like something straight out of a fairy tale. With its well-preserved Renaissance streets, the entire town is simply adorable!
The "Pfister House," built in the 16th century, is decorated with intricate details on its pillars and walls, making the building itself feel like an antique.
This house is said to resemble the building seen in the opening scene of Howl’s Moving Castle.
Additionally, there are vast grasslands where Howl’s castle could seemingly roam. The town also has canals where visitors can enjoy a boat ride. With its charming decorations and romantic fairy-tale atmosphere, Colmar is a place that will captivate not just Ghibli fans but anyone who visits!
Nördlingen, Germany: The Real-Life Setting of Attack on Titan
Attack on Titan is an anime that depicts humanity’s struggle against Titans.
A major theme in the story’s early stages is the presence of massive walls, built to protect people from these monstrous creatures. Interestingly, the real-world city that inspired the anime’s setting is Nördlingen, Germany. Just like in Attack on Titan, Nördlingen is a circular city enclosed by towering walls, featuring red rooftops that maintain a charming medieval feel.
Nördlingen’s city wall is the only fully preserved one in Germany, stretching 2.6 km around the city—just like the defensive walls in Attack on Titan. Visitors can even walk along the inner passage of the wall, offering a unique perspective of the city.
The city’s most iconic landmark is the Daniel Tower, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of Nördlingen. From the top, the view strikingly resembles scenes from Attack on Titan.
While you won’t be swinging through the rooftops with ODM gear, climbing the tower is the next best thing to experiencing the world of Eren and the Survey Corps!
London, England: Following the Footsteps of K-On! The Movie
London served as the backdrop for K-On! The Movie, and to this day, many fans visit the city for a real-life anime pilgrimage.
If you’re looking for a place to stay, consider the Ibis London Earls Court Hotel, the same hotel where the Light Music Club members stayed in the movie. The hotel even has a mirrored elevator, just like in the film. Enjoying breakfast here will add an extra touch of authenticity to your trip!
The real-life Troubadour café also exists, where you can indulge in classic British treats like tea, fish and chips, and beer. Famous London landmarks such as the London Eye and Big Ben, both of which appear multiple times in the movie, are must-visit sites for any tourist.
Other notable locations include the key visual bench, World’s End, and Westminster Bridge. London is a world-renowned tourist destination, but for K-On! fans, retracing the Light Music Club’s journey and taking commemorative photos makes the experience even more magical!
Singapore: Detective Conan: The Fist of Blue Sapphire
The setting for the movie Detective Conan: The Fist of Blue Sapphire is Singapore.
One of the most prominent locations in the film is the famous Marina Bay Sands Hotel in Singapore. The infinity pool at this hotel is where Shinichi Kudo and Ran shared a romantic moment. The sunset view from here is a must-see.
Another must-visit spot for fans is Gardens by the Bay, a popular tourist destination in Singapore. The futuristic giant trees are beautifully illuminated at night, creating a dreamlike atmosphere. Also, visiting Maxwell Food Centre, where Sonoko Suzuki and Makoto Kyogoku ate chicken rice, is highly recommended.
Other iconic places featured in the movie include the Singapore Flyer, the giant Ferris wheel that Kaito Kid was nearly shot down from, the Merlion which appears multiple times, Fountain of Wealth, a key location in solving the mystery, and Ce La Vi, where Kogoro Mouri was drinking heavily. These spots make Singapore the perfect destination for a Detective Conan pilgrimage!
You should also try the kaya toast featured in the film and other local delicacies.
Experience Singapore through the eyes of Conan and his friends and explore these fantastic locations!
◎ Summary
For anime fans, visiting the locations that appear in the story is a dream come true. While some details may be fictionalized, seeing these real-life places feels like stepping into the world of Detective Conan.
A pilgrimage to these filming locations offers both sightseeing and adventure—why not explore Singapore just like your favorite characters?
