As Japan's first anime to gain worldwide popularity, "Demon Slayer" has many "holy sites" across Japan. This article introduces both officially recognized pilgrimage sites and spots that are speculated to have inspired scenes in the series. Use this article as a guide to visit the various "Demon Slayer" sacred locations scattered throughout Japan.
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Recap of "Demon Slayer" Synopsis
For those who haven't read it, here's a quick summary of the story:
Tanjiro Kamado, who lost his father, was living happily with his family while making a living by selling charcoal. One day, when Tanjiro returned home from town, he found his family attacked by demons. Only his sister Nezuko was barely alive, but she was losing her kind heart as she was turning into a demon due to the demon's blood entering her wound. In order to turn Nezuko back into a human, Tanjiro, who decided to fight the demons, thus threw himself into a harsh battle.
After spending two years training in swordsmanship, Tanjiro joins the Demon Slayer Corps to exterminate demons. Will Tanjiro be able to defeat the demons and return Nezuko to her original form...?
Before Visiting Real-life Anime Location
As a work of fiction becomes more popular, fans often want to experience its world by visiting pilgrimage sites. Many of these sites are not officially recognized but have become sacred spots through fan discussions. Therefore, it’s important to be aware of certain manners and rules to respect these locations.
For example, avoid actions that could obstruct passage, such as taking photos in crowded areas or filming videos while walking around. Additionally, visiting very early in the morning or late at night can disturb local residents, so it's better to avoid these times even if there are no specific warnings on official sites.
To ensure that fans and tourists can enjoy these sites comfortably, adhering to basic manners and rules is crucial. Failure to do so could result in the pilgrimage site being closed to visitors. Always be considerate to make sure that everyone, including local residents, can enjoy the area peacefully.
【Yamagata】Ginzan Onsen
Ginzan Onsen is located in Obanazawa City, Yamagata Prefecture. This area has an atmosphere that overlaps with the image of the work. In fact, the buildings and mountainous scenery featured in the "Swordsmith Village Arc" of Season 3 have been noted for their similarity to the Ginzan Onsen streets.
One of the highlights is the scene where Tanjiro arrives at the Swordsmith Village. The small mountain village where the swordsmiths live features grey roofs and wooden inns that are reminiscent of Ginzan Onsen. Particularly, the pagoda-like architecture has been compared to the design of the Noto-ya Ryokan, making it a topic of interest among fans.
【Fukushima】Ookawaso
Ookawaso in Ashinomaki Onsen, Fukushima Prefecture, is a historic inn rumored to be the inspiration for the headquarters of Kibutsuji Muzan, the main antagonist in "Demon Slayer." In the series, Mugen Castle is the stronghold where Tanjiro's demon enemies reside.
At Ookawaso’s entrance, you can enjoy regular shamisen performances. This scene is reminiscent of Nezuko, who plays the biwa as Kibutsuji Muzan’s close aide in the series.To get to Ookawaso from Aizuwakamatsu Station on the Tohoku Shinkansen, you can take a free shuttle bus, which requires a reservation. This makes accessing the inn convenient and hassle-free.
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【Tochigi】Ashikaga Flower Park
Ashikaga Flower Park is the model for Mt. Fujikasane, where the 'Final Selection', the entrance exam for the Demon Slayer Corps, takes place. The park is known for its wisteria trellis, known as the Miracle Wisteria, which is in full bloom in the story, as demons are said to detest wisteria flowers.
The 150-year-old Miracle Wisteria is at its peak from mid-April to May, so visiting during this period is recommended. Additionally, from autumn to winter, the park features wisteria-themed illuminations, making it a spot where you can enjoy the "Demon Slayer" atmosphere throughout the year.
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【Tokyo】Asakusa
In the TV anime "Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba", Tanjiro Kamado sets off to Asakusa with his sister Nezuko. There, Tanjiro encounters his greatest enemy, Kibutsuji Muzan, but just before that, he is fascinated by the urban scenery he sees for the first time.
Asakusa is the place where Tanjiro encountered Kibutsuji Muzan, the leader of the demons. Strictly speaking, the setting of "Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba" is in the Taisho era, so the townscape of Asakusa has changed from the present day, and no specific spots appear in the work. However, Asakusa is a special area where you can immerse yourself in the world of "Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba" just by strolling around, as it has a traditional and emotional townscape in various places.
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【Tokyo】Mount Kumotori
Mount Kumotori is the hometown where Tanjiro and Nezuko lived happily with their family. Kumotori Mountain is the highest peak in Tokyo, counted as one of Japan's 100 famous mountains, and its green mountain scenery has similarities to the hometown depicted in the story.
However, the climbing level is considered intermediate, and even experienced climbers can expect a one-way journey of about 6 to 7 hours to reach the summit. Therefore, when visiting this pilgrimage site, make sure to prepare adequately for the climb and avoid approaching in light clothing.
【Niigata】Northern Culture Museum
The Northern Culture Museum in Niigata Prefecture has gained attention because its large hall resembles the mansion that serves as the setting for the Pillar Meeting in "Demon Slayer." The 100-tatami mat hall is truly impressive, and its scale, which can only be appreciated in person, drew many tourists and fans at the time.
The Hokutō Bunka Museum is a remnant of the Ito family residence, which was prominent in Echigo, and it was established after World War II.
👉 https://hoppou-bunka.com/english/
【Fukui】NATASHO General Charcoal
"Demon Slayer" features a story centered around the eldest son of the Kamado family, who makes a living as a charcoal burner. You can experience charcoal burning at Nadaso General Charcoal in Fukui Prefecture. Here, a master craftsman of a unique type of charcoal known only in Japan will provide careful instruction.
After the death of his father, Tanjiro becomes the pillar of his family, packing charcoal into baskets and setting out on a sales trip to the village below. The fate awaiting Tanjiro and Nezuko began from this seemingly ordinary daily life.
👉https://enjoy.pref.fukui.lg.jp/en/
【Nara】Amano Iwato Shrine
Amano Iwatate Shrine is home to the Ittou Stone, a large rock that closely resembles the rock Tanjiro cut while training to join the Demon Slayer Corps. According to legend, the Ittō Stone originates from a tale of warriors from the Sengoku to Edo periods who fought against tengu (mythical creatures). A massive rock that split into two during this battle is said to be the source of the Ittō Stone’s legend.
Speaking of Tengu, Tanjiro's master, Sakonji Urokodaki, wears a tengu mask, and this location is said to have influenced Urokodaki's character.
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【Kyoto】Kyoto Railway Museum
The 8620-type steam locomotive, affectionately known as "Hachiroku," is popular among fans as a model for the Mugen Train. Hachiroku was Japan's first passenger steam locomotive and was designated as a special train for use by the Emperor and Empress during their railway trips.
The 8630 model, preserved at the Kyoto Railway Museum, was manufactured in 1914, operated in the Tohoku region, and has been preserved since 1972.
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【Fukuoka】Houman-gu Kamado Shrine
The Houman-gu Kamado Shrine is a famous spot that fans of "Demon Slayer" absolutely cannot miss, as it is also said to be the "birthplace of Demon Slayer".
Although there are no scenes in the series that take place here, it is located in Fukuoka Prefecture, the birthplace of the author, Koyoharu Gotouge. The fact that Tanjiro's surname, Kamado, is included in the name of the shrine, and that the yamabushi (mountain monks) who train at the Houman-gu Kamado Shrine wear the same checkered pattern as Tanjiro, has led fans to say that this place has influenced the series.
Let's Visit a Real-life Anime Location of Demon Slayer!
We have carefully selected and introduced 10 spots that are popular as sacred places of "Demon Slayer". Whether you choose to immerse yourself in the world of the series by visiting these locations or cherish the experience as a memorable keepsake, there are various ways to enjoy your pilgrimage. Finding lesser-known holy sites across the country that haven’t yet gained widespread attention can also be an exciting way to explore and enjoy the series.
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