The Sites of the Popular Video Game The World Ends

The World Ends with You, an action role-playing game developed by Square Enix and Jupiter, is set in the vibrant and bustling district of Shibuya, Tokyo. This game is renowned for its meticulous recreation of real-life locations, making it a must-visit destination for fans who want to experience the game's world firsthand.

The Hachiko Statue: A Pivotal Location

The Hachiko statue is one of the most iconic locations in The World Ends with You. Situated in a square near the famous scramble crossroads in Shibuya, this statue marks the beginning of Neku's adventure as he makes his pact with his partner Shiki. The real-life Hachiko statue has stood in the same spot for years, watching over the bustling city district. For fans, visiting this spot is a way to connect with the game's narrative and feel the essence of Shibuya.

Udagawa-cho: The Graffiti Wall

Udagawa-cho is another significant location in the game, particularly for fans of graffiti. This is where Neku first meets the character Minamimoto. The real-life wall in Udagawa-cho features street art that closely resembles the in-game depiction. Located about a 10-minute walk from the Hachiko Exit at JR Shibuya Station, this spot is a must-visit for those who appreciate the game's attention to detail and its connection to real-world art.

The Wild Cat Cafe on Cat Street

The Wild Cat Cafe, run by Mr. Hanekoma, is a central hub in the game. In real life, the building that inspired the cafe's design is located on Cat Street, a pedestrianized street connecting Shibuya with Harajuku. Cat Street is known for its trendy shops, cafes, and food stands, making it a perfect place for fans to immerse themselves in the game's culture. Visitors can enjoy a cup of bubble tea or explore the unique shops while reminiscing about the game.

Other Notable Locations

In addition to these key spots, several other locations in Shibuya are meticulously recreated in the game. These include the 109 department store (referred to as the 104 department store in the game) and the Parco department store (known as the Malco department store). These details add to the game's authenticity and provide fans with a unique opportunity to explore the real-life counterparts of their favorite in-game locations.

Tips for Visiting

For fans planning to visit these locations, here are a few tips:

• Navigation: The Hachiko statue and Udagawa-cho are easily accessible from JR Shibuya Station. Cat Street is about a 1km walk from Shibuya, connecting it with Harajuku.
• Local Culture: Take time to appreciate the local culture, including the latest fashion trends, unique shops, and street food.
• Photography: Bring a camera to capture the similarities between the real-life locations and their in-game counterparts.
• Community: Join other fans who may be visiting these spots, creating a shared experience that enhances the connection to the game.

By visiting these sites, fans of The World Ends with You can deepen their appreciation for the game's world and its creators' attention to detail, making the experience even more memorable and immersive.