The final scene of Your Name unfolds on a staircase at Suga Shrine in Shinjuku, where Taki and Mitsuha reunite. This location is not just a movie setting—it’s a real place where fans can relive one of the most emotional moments in anime history. From photo tips to cultural insights, this guide explores everything you need to know before your visit.
The Stairs of Your Name and Suga Shrine
The final scene where the two characters pass each other, turn around, and finally meet again is one of the most memorable moments for the audience. The red handrail staircase exists in reality and is also a path that local residents use in daily life.
After the release of the film, it quickly became a symbol of “anime pilgrimage” and is now a well-known sightseeing spot in Yotsuya. Visiting here allows fans to relive the emotions of the movie.
Basic Information and Access to Suga Shrine
Suga Shrine has been worshipped since the Edo period as a guardian of the local community. It is believed to bring good fortune in relationships and protection from misfortune. The precincts are small but peaceful, offering a quiet escape from the busy city.
Access Information Table
| Transportation | Nearest Station | Walking Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| JR Chuo/Sobu Line | Yotsuya Station | About 10 minutes | Walk along a gentle slope from the station |
| Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line | Yotsuya-Sanchome Station | About 10 minutes | Pass through the shopping street towards the shrine |
| Bus | From Shinjuku Station West Exit | About 15 minutes | Get off at Yotsuya area stop, walk immediately |
Visitors to the Stairs and Manners
The staircase at Suga Shrine is a special photo spot for fans. Weekends are crowded, so early mornings are best for those who want to take photos calmly. However, as the stairs are also a local thoroughfare, visitors must avoid blocking the way while taking pictures.
It is also important not to occupy the stairs for too long and to share the space with others. The place has become a hub where fans from different regions interact, so considerate behavior is highly appreciated.
Photo Tips at the Stairs
To recreate the scene from the film, the best position is at the bottom of the stairs looking upward. The red handrails and the cityscape in the background create a composition that resembles the movie’s final scene.
Photo Angle Comparison Table
| Angle | Features | Accuracy to Film | Atmosphere |
|---|---|---|---|
| From the bottom | Emphasizes handrails and city view | High | Dynamic |
| From the middle | Expresses depth | Medium | Focus on characters |
| From the top | Shows shrine in background | Low | Solemn |
Lighting changes with the weather and time of day. On clear days, the stairs appear bright and refreshing, while in the evening, soft light creates a nostalgic mood. The ability to capture different expressions each time you visit is part of its charm.
History and Culture of Suga Shrine
Founded in the early Edo period, Suga Shrine has long been revered as the guardian deity of the area. Its deities are Susanoo-no-Mikoto and Ukanomitama-no-Mikoto, said to bring protection from epidemics, business prosperity, and good fortune in love.
Although the grounds are modest, they are wrapped in tranquility that makes visitors forget the city outside. Understanding this background allows pilgrims to experience not just the movie scene, but also the shrine’s rich cultural and historical context.
Anime Pilgrimage and Local Community
Visiting the real-life settings of anime and films, known as “anime pilgrimage,” has spread nationwide, and Suga Shrine is one of the leading examples. While this has brought positive effects to local tourism, respecting the daily lives of local residents is essential.
By valuing good manners and being mindful of the community, visitors ensure the location remains welcoming for years to come.
Nearby Attractions and Walking Around Yotsuya
There are many attractions near Suga Shrine, making it a good starting point for a full day of exploration.
Nearby Attractions Table
| Spot | Features | Distance |
|---|---|---|
| Shinjuku Gyoen | A vast garden with seasonal beauty | 20 minutes on foot |
| Yotsuya cafés | Calm cafés and long-established Western restaurants | Within walking distance |
| Ichigaya fishing pond | Rare fishing experience in the city | 15 minutes on foot |
Useful Information Table
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Suga-cho, Shinjuku, Tokyo |
| Blessings | Love fortune, protection from misfortune, business prosperity |
| Highlights | Your Name stairs, shrine grounds |
| Avoiding Crowds | Early morning visits are best |
| Photo Spot | Bottom of the stairs is closest to the film’s composition |
Conclusion
The staircase at Suga Shrine is a sacred spot that symbolizes Your Name and offers fans a chance to relive the emotions of the film. Visitors can enjoy not only photo-taking and prayer but also the opportunity to appreciate the cultural and historical significance of the site.
At the same time, it is essential to act with respect toward the local community. With proper manners, this special place will continue to be loved by many around the world.
