In the beloved film Your Name, Yotsuya Station becomes the very first Tokyo scene where Mitsuha arrives. Today, the station is more than just a transit hub—it is a pilgrimage site for fans worldwide. This guide introduces the station, its surroundings, and tips to relive the magic of the movie.
What is Yotsuya Station
Yotsuya Station is located on the border of Shinjuku Ward and Chiyoda Ward in Tokyo, served by JR Chuo and Sobu Lines as well as the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi and Namboku Lines. It provides excellent access to both Shinjuku and Tokyo Station, and thousands of commuters and students pass through daily.
The station opened in 1894 during the Meiji era, making it one of Tokyo’s long-standing transport hubs. Once a suburban connector, it is now central to business and academic districts.
The station is divided east to west, with easy transfers between JR and the Tokyo Metro, which makes it highly convenient. Around the station are restaurants and green parks, giving the area both the energy of the city and a calm atmosphere.
Yotsuya Station in Your Name
In the film, Mitsuha’s arrival scene marks her first step into the metropolis. The view unfolding right after passing through the ticket gate is vividly drawn, leaving a strong impression on viewers.
The streets in front of the station were faithfully recreated, allowing fans to compare the movie with real-life scenery. Many visitors take photos from the same angle as the film and share them on social media.
This scene represents Mitsuha’s turning point as she steps into Tokyo, making Yotsuya Station a special location for fans.
Pilgrimage Spots Around Yotsuya Station
The area around Yotsuya Station features several must-visit locations for fans of the movie.
| Spot | Highlight | Connection to the Movie |
|---|---|---|
| Yotsuya Station Front | Where Mitsuha first arrives | Symbol of Tokyo arrival |
| Suga Shrine Slope | Famous staircase model | Scene where Taki and Mitsuha cross paths |
| Shinjuku Gyoen | A vast natural park | Reminiscent of urban scenery in the film |
| Sotobori Park | Green pedestrian walkway | Nature in the middle of the city |
The stairs at Suga Shrine are especially famous, as they appeared in the climax of the movie. Standing there allows visitors to feel immersed in the film’s atmosphere.
Access to Yotsuya Station
Yotsuya Station is easy to reach from anywhere in Tokyo, making it a convenient base for sightseeing.
| Departure | Travel Time | Line |
|---|---|---|
| Shinjuku | About 5 min | JR Chuo Line |
| Tokyo | About 10 min | JR Chuo Line |
| Shibuya | About 15 min | Metro Ginza → Marunouchi Line |
| Ikebukuro | About 18 min | Marunouchi Line |
Its accessibility makes it a popular starting point for both tourists and pilgrims.
Tips for Enjoying the Pilgrimage
To experience the film’s atmosphere more deeply, a thoughtful approach is recommended.
- Rewatch the movie before visiting
Recalling the scenes will enhance your experience. - Choose the right time of day
Morning light or evening glow recreates the film’s mood and provides beautiful photo opportunities. - Respect manners
Avoid blocking walkways and be mindful when taking photos.
Here are some useful items to bring:
| Item | Reason |
|---|---|
| Camera or smartphone | To capture the scenery |
| Screenshots from the movie | To compare with real locations |
| Comfortable shoes | For slopes and shrine visits |
| Small umbrella | For sudden weather changes |
Local Food and Strolling Around Yotsuya
Yotsuya blends student life and business culture, offering a variety of dining options. Long-established Western restaurants, casual ramen shops, and cozy cafés are all within walking distance.
The most popular categories are summarized below:
| Cuisine | Feature | Best Enjoyed As |
|---|---|---|
| Western | Long history, nostalgic flavors | Ideal for post-pilgrimage lunch |
| Japanese | Calm and traditional | Best for dinner |
| Café | Popular with students and workers | Perfect for breaks during a walk |
| Izakaya | Many around the station | Enjoy with friends at night |
In spring, the cherry blossoms of Sotobori Park attract many visitors, combining flower viewing with the pilgrimage.
Pilgrimage Etiquette and Considerations
While the pilgrimage is a unique experience for fans, respect for the local community is essential.
| Etiquette | Reason |
|---|---|
| Do not linger on the street | It blocks pedestrian traffic |
| Keep voices low at shrines | These are places of worship |
| Take your trash with you | Maintain a clean environment |
| Avoid posting photos of strangers online | Protect privacy |
Following these simple rules ensures that future visitors can enjoy the same experience.
Conclusion
Yotsuya Station, as depicted in Your Name, is a place where a scene from the movie can be experienced as real scenery. By exploring the station, shrine, and surrounding streets, visitors can feel the film’s atmosphere on a deeper level.
Through pilgrimage, fans not only reconnect with the story but also discover Tokyo’s charm in new ways. Each visitor brings home different feelings and memories, making Yotsuya Station more than just a sightseeing spot. It becomes a place where fiction and reality meet.
