Welcome to Japan, “ONE PIECE” fans!
There are several places in Japan where you can experience the world of your beloved “ONE PIECE” in real life.
Here, we will introduce some particularly important “ONE PIECE” related spots.
The Creator’s Hometown – Kumamoto Prefecture! Where You Can Meet the Straw Hat Pirates
Kumamoto Prefecture, the birthplace of “ONE PIECE” creator Eiichiro Oda, is the most special “holy land” for fans! As a symbol of creative reconstruction following the 2016 Kumamoto earthquakes, and in gratitude for Mr. Oda’s significant donations, life-sized bronze statues of the Straw Hat Pirates have been installed throughout Kumamoto Prefecture!
Monkey D. Luffy Statue
Location: Kumamoto City Chuo Ward, Kumamoto Prefectural Government Promenade
Luffy, the captain of the Straw Hat Pirates, stands at the prefectural government office, the center of Kumamoto’s administration, as a symbol of the prefecture’s reconstruction. His figure, thrusting his fist towards the sky and powerfully encouraging his crew and the disaster-stricken Kumamoto, is truly the embodiment of hope for recovery. This place makes you feel that a new adventure called reconstruction has begun.
Roronoa Zoro Statue
Location: Otsu Chuo Park, Ozu Town, Kikuchi District
Zoro, the combatant of the crew, appears in Ozu Town, one of the gateways to Aso. With three swords drawn and a keen gaze fixed forward, his figure is filled with the determination to cut through any difficulty and powerfully forge a path to recovery. His cool and dependable demeanor, typical of Zoro, is clearly conveyed.
Nami Statue
Location: Front Plaza of Tateoka Reconstruction Exchange Hall “Tate-no-Iro,” Minamiaso Village, Aso District
Nami, the navigator of the Straw Hat crew, stands in front of a symbolic reconstruction facility in Minamiaso Village, which suffered particularly severe damage from the Kumamoto earthquakes. Just as Nami guides her comrades with precise navigation skills, this location embodies the wish that it will become the compass for Minamiaso’s reconstruction, leading people towards a bright future. Her pose, holding her Clima-Tact, is also very characteristic of Nami.
Usopp Statue
Location: Aso Station Plaza, Aso City
Usopp, the sniper of the crew, is located in front of Aso Station, the gateway to Aso City, overlooking the magnificent Mount Aso. Though a bit timid, Usopp always summons courage when it truly matters. Facing the vast nature, you can feel the bravery hidden within his comical nature. His distinctively long, straight nose is also charmingly reproduced.
Sanji Statue
Location: Mashiki Town Exchange Information Center “Minaterrace,” Kamimashiki District, Mashiki Town
Sanji, the cook of the crew, is located at “Minaterrace,” an exchange hub born as a symbol of reconstruction in Mashiki Town, which suffered particularly severe damage from the earthquake. Just as Sanji supports his comrades’ vitality with nutritious and delicious cooking, there is a wish that Minaterrace will become a source of interaction, smiles, and vitality for reconstruction. His dynamic pose looks like he’s about to unleash one of his signature kicking techniques.
Tony Tony Chopper Statue
Location: Kumamoto City Zoological and Botanical Gardens, Higashi Ward, Kumamoto City
Chopper, the ship’s doctor of the crew, is perfectly placed at the Kumamoto City Zoological and Botanical Gardens, home to many animals! With his round and adorable figure, he waves his hand as if to cheer everyone up. The zoo and botanical gardens also suffered damage from the earthquake, but they reopened after diligent restoration efforts. Chopper’s healing power brings cheer to visitors.
Nico Robin Statue
Location: Former Tokai University Aso Campus (within Kumamoto Earthquake Memorial Museum KIOKU), Minamiaso Village, Aso District
Robin, the archaeologist of the crew, stands at the former Tokai University Aso Campus, which is a disaster remains site transmitting the damage and lessons of the Kumamoto earthquakes to future generations. Just as Robin researches history and passes it down, there is a wish that this place will convey the memories and lessons of the earthquake, and help Minamiaso Village’s reconstruction blossom. Her pose exudes strength within her cool and intellectual demeanor.
Franky Statue
Location: Takamori Station Plaza, Takamori Town, Aso District
Franky, the shipwright of the crew, is located in front of Takamori Station, an important hub for the Minamiaso Railway, which was damaged by the Kumamoto earthquakes and is undergoing restoration. Just like Franky, who built the sturdy and reliable Thousand Sunny and repairs and modifies ships, he stands here as a figure supporting the powerful restoration and reopening of the Minamiaso Railway. His energetic pose looks like he’s about to shout “Super!”
Brook Statue
Location: In front of Mifune Dinosaur Museum, Mifune Town, Kamimashiki District
Brook, the musician of the crew, is located in front of the Dinosaur Museum in Mifune Town, where numerous dinosaur fossils have been discovered. The combination of Brook, who died once and was resurrected by the Yomi Yomi no Mi (Revive-Revive Fruit), and the fossils of ancient creatures, dinosaurs, is unique. With violin in hand, he seems to be delivering soul-infused music and entertaining visitors. Yohohoho!
Jinbe Statue
Location: Utomarina Okoshikikaigan Park, Uto City
Jinbe, who went from being the captain of the Sun Pirates to the helmsman of the Straw Hat crew, appears at a beautiful marina in Uto City, facing the Ariake Sea. It’s the perfect spot for Jinbe, a man of the sea. Like Jinbe, who supports his comrades and powerfully backs the Straw Hat crew as they navigate the vast ocean, he stands overlooking the sea as a strong pillar of Uto’s reconstruction.
Official Goods Store “Mugiwara Store” (Straw Hat Store)
This is a specialty store where you can get official “ONE PIECE” merchandise. It boasts a wide selection including comics, DVDs, figures, apparel, and miscellaneous goods, and you can also find exclusive items available only here. The store is decorated with the world of “ONE PIECE,” making it a treasure trove for fans!
Main Stores: Shibuya Main Store (Tokyo), Osaka Store, Nagoya Store, Fukuoka Store, and more, located in major cities nationwide. Be sure to stop by to look for the latest goods and limited-edition items.
Limited-Time Events at Universal Studios Japan (USJ)
At Universal Studios Japan (USJ) in Osaka, you also have the chance to enjoy the world of “ONE PIECE”! Especially every summer, limited-time events are often held featuring thrilling shows, themed restaurants, and exclusive merchandise, offering an excellent opportunity to experience the Straw Hat Pirates’ adventures firsthand. (※Event periods and content vary by year. Please check the official USJ website before your visit.) While there are few officially announced locations in Japan that served as models for “islands” appearing in the series, you can enjoy the world of “ONE PIECE” in various ways: by meeting the crew in the creator’s hometown, finding special items at official shops, or getting excited at theme park events.
May your “ONE PIECE” pilgrimage in Japan be the most enjoyable and unforgettable grand adventure!
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