If you’ve ever played Persona 5 The Royal (P5R) and thought, “What if I could actually walk through that city?”, then you’ll be happy to know that such a place exists in the real world: Sangenjaya, located in Setagaya Ward, Tokyo.
This neighborhood is widely known as the real-life model for the fictional town of “Yongen-Jaya,” where the protagonist lives. As you explore Sangenjaya, you’ll find numerous spots that blur the line between the game and reality, allowing you to soak in the atmosphere of P5R in real life.
In this article, I’ll introduce six must-visit locations in Sangenjaya that I personally explored, along with a charming café called RAIN ON THE ROOF, where you can quietly reflect on the world of the game. Through photos and words, I’ll take you on a journey that feels like stepping into the world of Persona 5.
6 Real-Life Persona 5R Locations to Visit in Sangenjaya
1. Fukuichi (Pukuichi)
Just a short walk from Sangenjaya Station, head southeast from Tamagawa-dori and turn into a side street. On the left-hand side, you’ll spot Fukuichi, a spot that might look eerily familiar to fans.
In P5R, this is where the protagonist arrives in Yongen-Jaya on the afternoon of April 9th. The scene of Tae Takemi walking briskly past the protagonist, slightly hunched and with a somber expression, immediately comes to mind.
(The impression left by Takemi in this scene was so strong that she became my top confidant choice in my first playthrough.)
In the game, this area is home to the second-hand shop “Rakuraku”, modeled on this exact location.
Fukuichi itself is known for serving Fuchu-yaki, a local Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki that features crispy yakisoba noodles on top—a key difference from the standard version.
The restaurant opens in the evening, and I’m looking forward to trying it next time I visit.
📍 Fukuichi on Tabelog (Japanese)
2. Leblanc (Exterior Inspiration)
Leblanc, the coffee shop where the protagonist lives, doesn’t exist in real life—but its exterior was modeled after a few real shops.
Just around the corner, you’ll find “Good-day Good-day SINCE1986” and a bar called “Snack New Marina”, which inspired the in-game shops “Good-Bye Good-Bye since1986” and “Snack New Marlin.”
This area is also known as the place where Futaba Sakura, who’s always crouching somewhere, is often imagined squatting in-game.
While these shops don’t serve coffee or curry like Leblanc, I’ll introduce a café later in this post that just might satisfy your cravings for a “real-life Leblanc.”
3. Chiyono-Yu Public Bath
Right across the street from the Leblanc area is Chiyono-Yu, a traditional public bathhouse, and a nearby laundromat.
Unfortunately, I arrived too early in the morning to see them open, but the area closely resembles the bathhouse from the game, where events with Ryuji and Akechi take place, and where you can take part in the “hot water challenge.”
The laundromat also brings back memories of using Becky (Sadayo Kawakami) to do laundry on your behalf.
4. The Alley Behind Leblanc
This is the narrow alley where an elderly man and woman can often be seen chatting in the game.
If you keep walking deeper into the alley,
you’ll find yourself in a spot that feels like a hidden shortcut back to Sangenjaya Station—just like in the game.
5. Niku no Hanamasa (Inspiration for Super Muramasa)
The in-game supermarket Super Muramasa appears to be inspired by the real-life Niku no Hanamasa, which also has a store in Sangenjaya.
Its bright yellow signage really stands out. Looking at the shelves stocked with onions, meat, and spices, I couldn’t help but imagine Sojiro Sakura quietly shopping for ingredients.
While he’s known to enjoy bitter and earthy foods like oysters and vegetables, Sojiro always adjusts his recipes—like his special curry—to suit Futaba’s tastes, revealing a surprisingly thoughtful side.
6. Sangenjaya Batting Center
Just to the left of Niku no Hanamasa is the Sangenjaya Batting Center.
In the game, the batting center is located to the right of Super Muramasa, but in reality, it sits next to Hanamasa instead. Still, the resemblance and atmosphere are close enough to bring the game to life.
A Café That Feels “More Leblanc Than Leblanc”: RAIN ON THE ROOF
Last but not least, I want to introduce my personal favorite spot: RAIN ON THE ROOF.
This café is based on the concept of a renovated barn that embodies a grandfather’s dream for his granddaughter. The warm wood interior, quiet ambiance, and nostalgic design evoke the same feeling you get from spending time in Leblanc.
One of their standout menu items is the curry and coffee set.
For those looking to taste a bit of “Leblanc in real life,” this meal is an absolute must.
For dessert, I highly recommend the firm custard pudding.
Enjoying it in the calm setting of the café felt just like experiencing a quiet day in the game—a gentle blend of memory and reality.
This café isn’t just a place to eat. It’s a space where your memories of Persona 5R and the game’s everyday moments naturally blend together.
If you’re looking for a place that captures the essence of Leblanc, this is the spot.
Sangenjaya: The Real-Life “Yongen-Jaya” You Can Walk Through
Persona 5 The Royal is not only about the Phantom Thieves’ adventures—it’s also a game that beautifully portrays the importance of everyday life and human connection.
As you walk through the streets of Sangenjaya, you’ll find moments where the line between the game and the real world starts to fade.
It’s more than just a sightseeing location—it’s a chance to relive P5R through your own footsteps.
For any Persona fan, visiting Sangenjaya is an experience that shouldn’t be missed.
You might just discover that the world of Persona 5R is closer to reality than you ever imagined.
