With the anime adaptation of Jujutsu Kaisen's Shibuya Incident arc underway, there may arise numerous queries concerning the various locations incorporated in the narrative. To enhance immersion and facilitate research, it proves beneficial to cross-reference the real-world settings employed in Jujutsu Kaisen with the fictional occurrences encompassing them.
Spanning across 57 manga chapters, the Shibuya Incident Arc is frequently likened to My Hero Academia's Paranormal Liberation War arc due to its transformative impact on the existing order of things. This event witnesses the loss of numerous lives, the casting of curses, and leaves a trail of significant destruction in its aftermath.
We have developed a guidebook for both the Shibuya Incident in Jujutsu Kaisen and Shibuya itself. This guidebook focuses on the events that take place in each location within the story, rather than providing historical or cultural context.
Disclaimer: The following article contains spoilers for the Shibuya Incident Arc in Jujutsu Kaisen, covering chapters 83 to 137 of the manga.
Jujutsu Kaisen and Shibuya Connected: Profiling the various locations from the Shibuya Incident
1) Shibuya Station, Tokyo Metro
Shibuya Station in Jujutsu Kaisen and reality (Image via Our Website)
The Tokyo Metro Subway network boasts around 9 lines and 180 stations scattered throughout Tokyo, attracting an average daily ridership of approximately 6 million passengers. Notably, Shibuya Station stands out as a prominent railway station in Japan and holds the title of being the fourth busiest commuter rail station in both Japan and the world. It efficiently serves as a hub for the Ginza Line, Hanzomon Line, and Fukutoshin Line, with the latter two being seamlessly interconnected.
This location, situated in the heart of the Shibuya Arc, is a pivotal point in Shibuya's layout, serving as a central hub for three subway lines. Its strategic significance as a target for curse users becomes apparent, as it was chosen as the setting for the trap set for Gojo on Halloween night, when foot traffic was at its peak to neutralize his Limitless technique.
In Jujutsu Kaisen chapter 83, at 7 pm, a series of Curtains were erected, with the main hub being the B5F Platform at Shibuya Station. In response, multiple teams were dispatched outside the Curtain to contain the unfolding situation. This location resurfaces later in chapter 113, as Megumi confronts his resurrected father, Toji Fushiguro.
2) Shibuya Mark City
Shibuya Mark City in Jujutsu Kaisen and reality (Image via Our Website)
Shibuya Mark City is renowned for its extensive real estate offerings. The "East" building is home to hotels, restaurants, and shopping centers, while the "West" building mainly houses medical practices specializing in Internal Medicine, Dentistry, and Cosmetic Surgery.
The location of Shibuya Mark City was a strategic choice for the Zen'in team, as it is conveniently connected to the JR, Metro, Tokyu, and Keio train lines. Moreover, it is just a minute away from the bustling Shibuya Station, making it easily accessible under normal circumstances.
The Zen'in team, comprising of Naobito Zen'in, Maki Zen'in, and Nobara Kugisaki, were stationed there, ready for action during Jujutsu Kaisen chapter 83. However, Haruta Shigemo intercepted them and the Zen'in members split up from Nobara. Consequently, only Nobara managed to intercept Mahito just as he attempted to escape.
3) Shibuya Hikarie
The Shibuya Hikarie is a towering complex located east of Shibuya Station. Rising to a height of 180 meters (590 feet), it proudly claims the title of the 40th tallest building in Tokyo. Tokyu Corporation, the proud owner, has transformed this colossal structure into a retail and office paradise. On the lower floors, one can explore themed levels, relish in exquisite dining experiences, or enjoy captivating theatrical performances. As one ascends higher, the space transitions into an office haven. Moreover, nestled beneath its foundations lies Shibuya Station, while offering breathtaking vistas of the vibrant Shibuya district.
The Shibuya Hikarie is one of the most well-known buildings in Shibuya, alongside the famous 109 building. It holds significant importance in the Shibuya Arc of Jujutsu Kaisen, particularly its basement floors where key events such as Gojo's imprisonment took place. In chapter 83, a large Curtain was cast over Shibuya at 7 pm, originating from the fifth-floor basement of the Shibuya Hikarie. This was a deliberate trap to capture Gojo, who had just defeated Hanami. Eventually, the building was severely damaged during the intense battle between Sukuna and Jogo.
4) Aoyama Cemetery
Aoyama Cemetery: Jujutsu Kaisen vs. Real life (Image via Our Website)
The Aoyama Cemetery, situated in Minato City, Tokyo, holds great historical significance as the final resting place of numerous esteemed individuals who have played a cultural role in the city. Among them are Hachiko, the legendary loyal dog, and his owner Hidesaburo Ueno. Of relevance to Jujutsu Kaisen, the cemetery is conveniently located at an accessible distance from the Shibuya Hikarie building.
On a favorable day, the drive to the building would take only 7 minutes. Walking will take approximately 32 minutes, while using the Ginza line by train would require around 24 minutes, providing a direct route to Shibuya Station. As a sprawling park, the Cemetery is a notable feature in Shibuya's layout and is located a stone's throw away from train stations. The Ginza and Hanzoman lines offer direct access, while the Chiyoda line would necessitate a transfer.
This is important because the backup team, consisting of Yuji Itadori, Mei Mei, and Ui Ui, was strategically positioned and prepared to intervene in Jujutsu Kaisen chapter 83. However, due to the emergence of another Curtain at 8:39 pm in chapter 85, they had to alter their route from Shibuya Station to the Meji-Jingumae station.
5) The Meiji-Jingumae 'Harajuku' Station of the Tokyo Metro
The Train station in Jujutsu Kaisen vs. real life (Image via Our Website)
The Meji-Jinumae 'Harajuku' Station is a bustling transportation hub that is uniquely depicted in the popular anime series, Jujutsu Kaisen. Situated in the heart of Shibuya's lively atmosphere, this station serves as a vital connection for commuters traveling on the Chiyoda and Fukutoshin Lines. With its conveniently positioned location, it offers easy access to iconic landmarks such as the Meiji Shrine, Yoyogi Park, and the NHK Broadcasting Center. As fans explore the vivid world of Jujutsu Kaisen, they can appreciate how the animated adaptation captures the essence of this central Shibuya arc location.
In Jujutsu Kaisen chapter 85, Itadori's team urgently raced to the station from Aoyama Cemetery. Typically, this journey would take 26 minutes. However, the team managed to reach their destination, surprisingly, in only 13 minutes, at 8:51 pm. Upon arrival, they encountered two Curtains: one which trapped civilians from B4F to B1F and another that barred Jujutsu Sorcerers from entering B5F.
To rescue the trapped civilians, Mei Mei and Ui Ui swiftly proceeded to Exit 7 leading to the B4F platform. Meanwhile, Yuji took on the responsibility of confronting a formidable curse and headed towards Exit 2. At precisely 9:03 pm, on Platform B2F, Yuji Itadori found himself face to face with a colossal Grasshopper Curse, which he successfully vanquished in chapters 86 and 87 of Jujutsu Kaisen. Then, at exactly 9:04 pm, thanks to Yuji's actions, the Curtain restricting civilians was lifted. Mei Mei and Ui Ui took the opportunity to eliminate the Transfigured humans and other curses.
6) The connections to Shibuya/the various train lines
The various subway lines (Image via Our Website)
Numerous train lines converge at Shibuya station, including the Ginza Line, Hanzomon Line, and Fukutoshin Line for subways. In addition, there are private railways such as the Keio Inokashira Line, Den-en-Toshi Line, and Toyoko Line. Shibuya Station serves as a central hub in Shibuya's transportation network.
The interconnected train lines and tunnels play a significant role in Jujutsu Kaisen's Shibuya Incident, serving as vital transportation routes within Shibuya's layout. Notably, the Fukutoshin Line Platform between Meiji-Jingumae Station and Shibuya Station becomes a battleground where Ui Ui, Mei Mei, and Niji Ebina clash in Jujutsu Kaisen Chapter 98. Moreover, in Chapters 101 to 102, the Smallpox Deity also becomes intertwined with these train lines.
The main strategy involved the coordination of all the jujutsu sorcerers as they made their way towards Shibuya station after Gojo's capture in Jujutsu Kaisen chapter 91. In Chapters 101 to 105, Itadori and Choso engaged in a fierce battle within the confines of Shibuya station, while Sukuna was summoned and mercilessly annihilated Nanako and Mimiko. In Chapters 106 to 109, Maki, Nanami, Megumi, Naobito, and a resurrected Toji Fushiguro joined forces to fend off Dogan along the Inokashira Line.
7) The Shibuya Cerulean Tower
The C Tower (Image via Our Website)
March 2001 marked the completion of the second-tallest building in Shibuya, standing at a height of 184 meters (604 feet) with 41 remarkable floors. Its roof features a heliport, while the six underground levels are home to splendid banquet rooms, the NOH Theatre, and parking facilities. The first two floors house a selection of delightful restaurants, state-of-the-art gyms, and a refreshing indoor pool.
The office space spans floors 4 to 16, while the hotels occupy floors 19 to 37. The main restaurant and bar can be found on floor 40, and there is a salon on floor 39. Typically, it is a quick five-minute walk from Shibuya Station. However, Yuji, Megumi, and Ino encountered difficulties reaching their destination due to the presence of Transfigured Humans roaming the streets and attacking people.
By 10:01 pm, the trio had located the Curtains that served as a barrier against jujutsu sorcerers. The Tower is a prominent setting in the Shibuya Arc, where Awasaka, Ogami, and her grandson engage in a fierce battle against Itadori, Megumi, and Ino in Jujutsu Kaisen Chapters 95 & 97.
8) Shoto Bunkamura Street
Shoto Bunkamura street: Manga vs. Life (Image via Our Website)
Shoto Bunkamura Street, located just across from Nabeshima Shoto Park, is renowned for its rustic charm and houses the esteemed Shoto Museum of Art. With a convenient three-minute walk from Shibuya Station, this street is not only known for its famous cafes, but also for its vibrant greenery and the iconic Tokyu Department Store. It beautifully juxtaposes technology and nature.
At precisely 9:40 pm, an unexpected encounter took place on Shoto Bunkamura Street between Nobara, Akari, and Haruta Shigemo. However, their confrontation was swiftly interrupted when Nanami Kento arrived and expertly aided in the fight against Haruta, forcefully propelling him into a wall. Following a short interrogation, Nanami forcefully blasted Haruta through the very same wall. As Maki, Akari, and Nobara tended to their injuries, Nanami valiantly proceeded alone in Jujutsu Kaisen Chapters 99 to 100.
As the convergence of everyone took place, an increasing number of profanities and transformed individuals with murderous intentions emerged, further impeding the arrival of reinforcements. Consequently, Nobara was compelled to carry on single-handedly, ultimately encountering and engaging in a battle with Mahito's duplicate.
9) The Shuto Expressway, Shibuya Route
The Shuto Expressway, known as the metropolitan expressway, is a modern network of roads. It is commonly referred to as the Shuto Expressway. To travel on this network, drivers are required to pay a toll. The standard toll for regular cars is 1,300 yen (approximately $8.80 USD). However, larger vehicles have their tolls doubled. Presently, there are 24 operational routes, although the Shibuya Incident arc has resulted in the closure of one route for obvious reasons.
In Jujutsu Kaisen chapter 113, at 10:51 pm, Shoko Ieiri and Jujutsu High principal Masamichi Yaga turned the No. 3 Shibuya Route into a makeshift infirmary. They urgently brought Ino and Ijichi there for healing using Shoko's Reversed Curse technique. Ino had been injured during a fight with three curses, while Ijichi had been ambushed by Haruta.
It is surprising that the expressway is empty, considering it's Halloween night. The Shuto Expressway, specifically Route 3, is usually heavily congested. Additionally, the expressway plays a crucial role in Shibuya's overall layout, spanning a length of 11.9 kilometers (7.4 miles) and covering a significant portion of the area.
10) Dogenzaka street
Dogenzaka: Manga and real (Image via Our Website)
On the left-hand side of the renowned and frequently depicted Shibuya 109 building, lies the highly acclaimed Dogenzaka Street in Shibuya. Boasting a bustling and vibrant atmosphere, this street is a magnet for nightclubs, karaoke bars, and a plethora of restaurants.
Noteworthy clothing stores also grace this renowned street, while just a stone's throw away is the famed Love Hotel Hill. This location holds significant importance in the Shibuya arc of Jujutsu Kaisen, specifically in chapter 117 of the manga. It is here that Megumi falls victim to an ambush by Haruta Shigemo at precisely 11:05 pm, compelling Megumi to summon Mahaoraga to engage in battle.
This is where Sukuna unleashes the Malevolent Shrine on a massive scale during the battle against Mahaoraga in chapter 119, resulting in the devastating Shibuya Massacre. The Malevolent Shrine obliterates everything from Shibuya Station all the way to Yumeji Street. In chapters 121 through 126, the Ticket Gate at Dogenzaka becomes the battleground where Yuji, Mahito, and Aoi Todo confront Mahito in a fierce fight.
11) Shibuya Stream
The Shibuya Stream, featured on Our Website, is a towering structure and commercial hub serving as the prime location for Google's Japanese headquarters and the prestigious Excel Tokyu Shibuya Stream Hotel. Boasting an impressive stature of 180 meters (590 feet), this architectural marvel houses a remarkable 35 floors. Moreover, it enjoys the convenience of being a mere one-minute walk from the bustling Shibuya Station.
The front of the Shibuya Stream tower was completely destroyed in Jujutsu Kaisen chapter 133, along with toppled towers, a damaged expressway, and a significant amount of debris littering the streets. These damages would significantly change the layout of Shibuya and cause immense loss of infrastructure and life.
Panda successfully located and rescued Kusakabe from the rubble and debris. However, a problem arose as Kusakabe, suffering from severe trauma and misinformation, believed that Yuji deserved the death penalty. The two were preparing to battle curse users until Sukuna suddenly appeared during the fight against Jogo.
12) The Shibuya Police Station, Udagawa Police Box
Shibuya's police station (Image via Our Website)
Japan is dotted with police boxes and police stations, with the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department being the largest in the country. With over 40,000 police officers and more than 2,800 personnel, it boasts an impressive workforce.
The distance between the 109 building and the police station is typically a 9-minute walk, while the specific police box is even closer. In the aftermath of Sukuna's destruction within a radius of 140 meters (459 feet), and the intense battle between Aoi Todo, Yuji, and Mahito spanning across the district, it only takes a few seconds for them to reach the remains of that building.
The Shibuya Incident in chapter 136 of Jujutsu Kaisen concludes with the unexpected appearance of Kenjaku. He absorbs Mahito and seeks assistance from Uraume to stall the remaining jujutsu sorcerers while he escapes with Gojo still sealed. The intensity of the situation necessitates Yuki Tsukumo's intervention, but the summoning of a massive curse serves as a distraction, allowing Kenjaku to successfully flee.
Final thoughts
Shibuya in Jujutsu Kaisen season 2 (Image via MAPPA)
Following the Shibuya Incident in Jujutsu Kaisen chapter 137, the city of Shibuya lies in ruins, depicted as a vast blacked-out area in Japan visible from space. This darkened patch starts as a single dot and gradually expands into a colossal void, contributing to the emergence of more than 10 million cursed spirits.
Numerous landmarks and infrastructure were destroyed, resulting in the loss of hundreds of lives overnight. The Shibuya Incident not only drastically changed the layout of Shibuya, but also plunged the situation into chaos.
Tokyo was completely evacuated and declared a no-man's-land, with only a few municipalities, such as Okutama, Oume City, Akiruno City, Hachioji City, Machida City, and certain islands, remaining as safe zones untouched by curses. This guide to the locations aims to highlight the significant impact of Jujutsu Kaisen's Shibuya Incident arc.