Gaming Destinations

Yakuza Franchise

3 min read

Real-Life Locations from the Yakuza (Like a Dragon) Franchise

Step into Kamurocho—and beyond—on your next trip to Japan.

The Yakuza series (now known as Like a Dragon) by SEGA is known for its gripping storytelling, unforgettable characters, and incredibly detailed cityscapes. What many fans may not know is that most locations in the franchise are modeled after real Japanese neighborhoods, making them the perfect destinations for video game-inspired travel.

Kamurocho = Kabukicho, Tokyo

The most iconic location in the series, Kamurocho, is directly inspired by Kabukicho—Tokyo’s famous entertainment and red-light district in Shinjuku.

What to See:

  • Don Quijote Kabukicho – the real-life model of the in-game convenience store
  • Club SEGA (now GiGO) – visit arcades like the ones Kiryu spent hours in
  • Shinjuku Batting Center – mirrors the game’s batting cages
  • Godzilla Road – topped with a giant Godzilla head, great for photos
  • Golden Gai – a maze of tiny bars, much like the back alleys in Kamurocho

Sotenbori = Dotonbori, Osaka

Introduced in Yakuza 0 and Yakuza Kiwami 2, Sotenbori is based on Dotonbori, Osaka’s nightlife and food mecca.

What to See:

  • Glico Running Man Sign – exactly where Majima runs wild
  • Dotonbori Canal – walk along the same waterfront seen in cutscenes
  • Hozenji Yokocho – a narrow alleyway with historic charm and lantern-lit bars
  • Kani Doraku Crab Sign – one of the city’s most iconic landmarks

Isezaki Ijincho = Isezakicho, Yokohama

Debuting in Yakuza: Like a Dragon, Isezaki Ijincho is modeled after the Isezakicho district of Yokohama.

What to See:

  • Isezakicho Shopping Street – mirrors the bustling vibe of the game’s main road
  • Yokohama Chinatown – vibrant food scene and rich cultural heritage
  • Yamashita Park & Harbor View Park – for peaceful coastal walks
  • Nogeyama Zoo – a hidden gem often missed by tourists

Ryukyu = Naha, Okinawa

In Yakuza 3, the story moves to the tropics. The Ryukyu district is based on Naha, the capital of Okinawa.

What to See:

  • Kokusai Dori – the real-life inspiration for the main street in Ryukyu
  • Shuri Castle – a reconstructed historic castle destroyed during WWII
  • Okinawan beaches – for a relaxing Kiryu-style retreat

Historical Twist: Like a Dragon Ishin!

While not a direct one-to-one recreation, Like a Dragon: Ishin! draws heavily from Kyoto’s historical districts during the Bakumatsu era.

What to See:

  • Gion District – traditional architecture and geisha culture
  • Fushimi Inari Shrine – iconic red torii gates
  • Kiyomizu-dera – stunning hilltop temple with panoramic views

Planning Your Yakuza Pilgrimage

Each city is easily accessible via Japan’s Shinkansen (bullet train) network. If you’re planning to hit multiple Yakuza locations in one trip, consider purchasing a JR Rail Pass for convenience and savings.

Tips for Travelers

  • Compare in-game screenshots with your real-life photos
  • Visit both day and night to see the districts come alive like in the game
  • Be respectful—especially in nightlife areas
  • Try local dishes that appear in-game, like takoyaki, sushi, and yakiniku

Interactive Map Coming Soon!

We’re working on an interactive map of every real-life Yakuza location—stay tuned!

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