Seichi Junrei in the Big Apple
As an anime fan, getting to Japan is a major bucket list item. When baby weebs and lifelong otaku finally make their pilgrimage to the Anime Mecca. The photos that capture those moments feel so special. I recently learned that those trendy pictures fans like to recreate have a specific name. Seichi Junrei. Seichi Junrei is a form of tourism where fans visit real-world locations featured in their favorite series.
But what if I told you that you could have a similar experience a little closer to home? Like right in the Big Apple. Our host Kris Naudus took us along for the ride. This is Anime Tourism without Leaving New York Panel at Anime NYC.
Kris was funny as hell. Clearly, very knowledgeable about said topic, but also with impeccable comedic timing. One thing about the panels. It’s always a ” you had to be there” type of thing. In light of the situation, Words rarely do the experience justice. More often than not, the audience can make or break a panel. But honestly, Kris did the damn thing. As a matter of fact their was no backup needed whatsoever. Low-key, that made it that much more enjoyable. Not only did I leave- more enlightened, but also with a few new Anime titles.
source: mikehattsu.blogspot.com
All about Seichi Junrei
In Japan, Seichi Junrei sights are more obscure. Places animators would come across in their daily lives. For example: the Pavilion from The Garden of Words, based on one found in Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden. Or the various locations in the city of Tama as featured in Whisper of the Heart.
In America, the locations are more touristy. As someone born and raised in a city like New York. It was interesting to see what was spot on and what artistic liberties were taken. One of the first series that popped into my head was Red Garden. Red Garden is an anime about a group of girls who attend a private High School on Roosevelt Island and the mystery surrounding them. It’s been nearly twenty years since I’ve seen it, and that Tram still lives rent-free in my head. Outside of that, Roosevelt Island in the anime was nothing like the real thing. But maybe, one day the red Tram will still see me- regardless.
Stepping into something a little more modern, the panel discussed Banana Fish. Another anime that takes place in New York City. There is a particular scene that takes place in the New York Public Library’s Bryant Park Branch, which has gained some notoriety off the strength of it.
More in the Big Apple
Other iconic locations in anime include the World Trade Center (RIP), the Brooklyn Bridge, Central Park, and the Alamo Sculpture. A place that’s a little more cultural; it’s a know-if-you-know type of thing. Kenka’s Izakaya and the Tanuki statue on St. Marks Place. I’ve walked past this bar so many times over the years and never really thought about it.
Other anime mentioned in the Panel. Cipher (1989), Mad Bull (1990), Baccano! (2007) and Eden of the East: The King of Eden (2009). Pokémon and Miss Kobayashi’s Dragon Maid.
Kris even took it a step further and talked about Seichi Junrei for American Animation. The Gargoyles talk was much appreciated. Apparently, Fry’s (Philip J. Fry) house from Futurama is real. Brooklyn Vision Academy from Into the Spider-Verse is based on Midwood High School with some extra flourishes.
My Destination
This made me wonder. What is an anime series or movie that fits similar criteria? The first thing that came to mind was Blood +. Specifically, the subway scene. After trying to track down a photo, I realized there was so much more. NYPD, City skyline, and random alleyways. I remember thinking about how accurate the subway scene looked, and to my surprise, it still holds up. And our friend Tram kun. (It’s calling my name at this point).
However, It’s your turn to speak. Can you name any locations or anime that are perfect for Seichi Junrei? Similarly, what anime reminds you of home? Overall, what are your thoughts on Anime Tourism in New York?
Let us know in the comments section below.
Stay tuned for more of our Anime NYC-related content.
