Japan is home to a handful of pop culture icons the world has come to love. The likes of Hello Kitty, Gudetama, Naruto, Pikachu, and Son Goku prove how far and deep Japanese influences have seeped into modern pop culture.
If you grew up watching these characters, you’d surely love to see an entire amusement park or a museum built in their honor. These are among the absolute must-see places in Japan, among other quirky attractions that simply kawaii:
1. Ghibli Museum
Photo courtesy of TripAdvisor
Hayao Miyazaki may not be a household name but his works including “Spirited Away” and “My Neighbor Totoro” might be. He’s the timeless and talented storyteller behind Studio Ghibli, the film studio featured at this quaint museum near central Tokyo.
It makes for a dreamy portal taking visitors into Miyazaki’s world and meeting his most beloved characters.
2. Sanrio Puroland
Often referred to as “Hello Kittyland”, Sanrio celebrates the classic white cat that has won the world over.
It’s an excellent place to bring children where their vivid imagination comes to life. Have we mentioned that every corner is also Insta-worthy? Kids and kids-at-heart are sure to enjoy this wonderland.
3. Koka Ninja Village
Pop culture is riddled with ninja references, from the anime series Naruto to the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.
If you’re curious about Japan’s real-life warriors and spies, Koka City is the place to be!
Learn about the lives and special skillsets of these secret rebels, and even experience it firsthand!
Try the throwing stars range, where many tourists go to learn the art of shuriken!
4. Rabbit Island (Usagi Jima)
Japan is a mecca for cute characters and animals, and this adorable experience is just a short ferry ride from mainland Tadanoumi in Hiroshima!
Thousands of rabbits, in different species and sizes, roam freely throughout Rabbit Island. Bunnies would be happy to approach humans, especially if you have food!
5. Gundam Base
Photo courtesy of gundam-base.net
Visit one of the rare places where you can see a full-sized Unicorn Gundam replica. Fans of the series will find much to see and collect at this super-sized specialty store for all things in the franchise.
Check out the Gunpla model kits in the Shop Zone as some are originals from the 80s and 90s!
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