Many Filipinos grew up watching locally dubbed anime on television, which may have contributed to many Pinoy travelers’ fascination with Japan. It’s no wonder why anime- and manga-related destinations like Akihabara or Ghibli Park often make it into many Filipinos' travel bucket lists. But what if we tell you there’s another anime-themed site you might be overlooking? Introducing Nijigen no Mori (literal translation: ‘two-dimensional forest’) on Awaji Island. 

 

© Masashi Kishimoto Scott / Shueisha, TV Tokyo, Piero

 

Where is Nijigen no Mori?

 

Nijigen no Mori is an anime theme park located on Awaji Island in Hyogo Prefecture. The island is connected to a bridge from Kobe City, a destination best known among tourists for its wagyu beef. 

 

Read more to find out about the theme park’s highlights, including its attractions, unique experiences and accommodations any anime fan must try at least once (or twice) during their Japan travel. 

 

Nijigen no Mori attractions

 

The theme park features attractions related to the world-famous anime Naruto and its sequel Boruto: Naruto Next Generations, as well as other popular titles like Godzilla, and Crayon Shin-chan–all of which casual and hardcore fans of the genre will surely enjoy. 

 

© Masashi Kishimoto Scott / Shueisha, TV Tokyo, Piero

 

Unlike typical theme parks that are focused simply on rides, Nijigen no Mori is all about interactive experiences that immerse you into the world of your favorite anime. We’re talking about life-sized sculptures, mazes, and training grounds — yes, training grounds — where you can participate in jutsu challenges similar to Naruto and his ninja friends. 

 

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In another attraction, you can ‘be a scientist’ assigned to help tame Godzilla and prevent the beast from destroying the island after an experiment has gone wrong. This includes a zipline ride through Godzilla’s mouth where you’ll ‘dodge’ missiles as you go along. If it sounds exciting on paper, then imagine what the actual ride would feel like. 

 

The park also occasionally does limited-time collaborations with famous titles like Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba featuring limited-edition merchandise, programs, and other immersive activities, so make sure to always check the park’s website prior to your visit to know which anime or manga they’ll feature next. 

 

Themed accommodations inside the park

 

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Restaurants that feature popular characters can also be found inside the park. Plus, since Nijigen no Mori is located on an island surrounded by nature, the park also offers a villa-style stay at the Grand Chariot Hokuto Shichisei 135°, which offers themed accommodations inspired by Naruto, Crayon Shin-chan, and Hello Kitty.

 

Ticket prices start at JPY500 for children aged 5 years and up and JPY3,300 for adults. 

 

Nijigen no Mori & Grand Chariot Hokuto Shichisei 135° Address: 2425-2 Kusumoto, Awaji City, Hyogo Prefecture  656-2301 Website: https://nijigennomori.com/en/