The power of anime to transform reality is undeniable. Recently, an ordinary public phone booth in Tokyo’s Jimbocho district suddenly became a hot spot for otaku visitors, all thanks to the massive success of the Chainsaw Man: Reze Arc film.
The wildflower craze at the sorrowful phone booth
After Chainsaw Man: Reze Arc surpassed 10 billion yen in box office revenue, hundreds of fans flocked to this small street corner to reenact one of the most heartbreaking and romantic scenes from the story. The phone booth area is now overflowing with wildflowers, the same flowers Reze gave Denji as a symbol of innocence and a bittersweet farewell.
Not only local visitors but many international fans, especially from South Korea, have lined up to offer flowers and take commemorative photos. On Google Maps, this spot has earned a five-star rating along with heartfelt reviews, with many calling it a true “sanctuary” for anime lovers.
Network provider’s response: mixed feelings
The large accumulation of fresh flower bouquets has prompted NTT East Japan, the company that owns the phone booth, to issue an official statement. While expressing appreciation for the fans’ passion, they gently reminded everyone that leaving items at the booth technically counts as “littering.”
Interestingly, an anonymous sign, likely from a dedicated fan, appeared inside the booth with a thoughtful message:
“She took the flower she received when she left. If this place means something to you, please use the phone to make a call to keep it alive, but kindly take your flowers home.”
This phenomenon once again shows how a single scene from MAPPA’s studio can revive a fading technology like the public phone booth. It turns an ordinary object into a vibrant spiritual symbol in the heart of modern Tokyo.