BIG FOOTPRINTS TO FOLLOW
Godzilla’s Film Trail in Greater Vancouver
When Godzilla emerged from the depths in 2014, the Lower Mainland’s diverse landscapes transformed into everything from Japanese coastal villages to San Francisco’s bustling streets. This guide will take you through the key filming locations offering a unique way to experience both the movie’s magic and British Columbia’s natural beauty.
Practical Considerations
While peak season runs from June to September, there isn’t a bad time of year to visit. The changing leaves in autumn and the emergence of spring cherry blossoms make this region a kaleidescope of colours across the seasons. But in the colder months, it’s best to bring rain gear and layers, for the forecast can change throughout the day.
The Pacific Northwest ecosystem that attracted Godzilla (in fiction) and filmmakers (in reality) is worth protecting. Consider supporting local conservation efforts through organizations like the Georgia Strait Alliance or the Pacific Salmon Foundation. After all, we want to ensure these locations remain beautiful for future kaiju… and film crews. Now go forth, travel responsibly, and watch the skyline… you never know when Godzilla might return!
Richmond: Where Japan Meets the Pacific Northwest
Steveston Village
Begin your Godzilla journey in historic Steveston, where the fishing village’s Japanese heritage made it the perfect setting for the fictional town of Janjira.
For an authentic taste of the area, start your day at Steveston Coffee Company, known for their cinnamon buns and excellent Japanese-style iced coffee.
The Steveston Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre served as the Janjira International School, where young Ford watched the devastating nuclear incident unfold. The Cultural Centre continues to celebrate Japanese-Canadian heritage through various events and exhibitions, making it a meaningful first stop on your tour.
This scene, set in fictional “Lone Pine, California,” showcases Steveston’s versatility as a filming location, capable of filming both epic and quaint. For lunch, Oretachi Japanese Curry will satisfy even the most monsterous of cravings.
A few blocks west, at Moncton Street and Second Avenue, you’ll find the location where Ford watched the nuclear warhead being loaded onto the train.
Steveston Harbour, which stood in for San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Wharf during the climactic scene where Ford desperately tries to disarm a warhead before steering it out to sea, offers whale watching tours from April to October. You won’t find Godzilla, but you might spot orcas and humpback whales, courtesy of Vancouver Whale Watch and Seabreeze Adventures.
Remember to follow responsible wildlife viewing guidelines: maintain appropriate distances from marine life and never feed wild animals.
Vancouver: Modern Metropolis Meets Monster Arena
Dining Tips: For lunch or dinner, consider visiting Guu Original on Thurlow, one of Vancouver’s original izakayas. Or a little outside of the downtown core, in Kitsilano, The Eatery is widely aclaimed for its wildly unique sushi rolls and equally wild Japanamation decor.
Downtown Vancouver
The city’s sleek financial district served as the backdrop for several San Francisco scenes. The Oceanic Plaza was transformed into a BART station where Elle Brody witnessed the epic battle between Godzilla and the MUTOs. While in the area, visit the Vancouver Lookout at Harbour Centre for panoramic views of the city and harbor – imagine watching kaiju emerge from these waters!
BC Place Stadium
This iconic stadium, which served as the FEMA assembly point in the film’s finale, hosts regular tours when events aren’t scheduled. While the stadium itself is impressive, the surrounding False Creek area offers numerous monster-themed activities, including the Science World‘s frequent exhibits on prehistoric creatures and natural disasters (check their website for current exhibitions).
For geology enthusiasts, the Pacific Museum of Earth at UBC showcases the region’s seismic activity – a key plot element in the film. Their collection includes fossils that might make you wonder what else lies dormant beneath the Pacific.
Burnaby & NEW WEST: Apocalyptic Industrial LANDSCAPES & SCarred Streets
Today, this vibrant antique district offers countless shops where you might find vintage Godzilla memorabilia or Japanese collectibles. The street’s historic architecture, dating back to the 1800s, provides excellent photo opportunities.
The antique-lined Front Street, beneath the parkade at Sixth Street, served as the abandoned streets of Janjira’s quarantine zone.
River Market, just a short walk away, offers several Asian-fusion restaurants with views of the Fraser River. Don’t miss Longtail Kitchen for their Thai-style seafood, or Pamola, which serves “kaiju-sized” burritos.
Added insight: The former Nokia offices and surrounding industrial area served as part of the Janjira Nuclear Power Plant complex.
While the specific building isn’t accessible, the nearby Burnaby Mountain Conservation Area offers hiking trails with spectacular views of the industrial coastline below. Unlike a towering Kaiju, your impact on Burnaby Mountain should be minimal. Stick to the trails (no off-road rampages!) and Leave No Trace – so future explorers don’t think a monster tore through.
Epic Dining EXPERIENCES
Tojo’s
For the ultimate Japanese dining experience in Vancouver, no Godzilla-themed tour would be complete without a visit to Tojo’s Restaurant.
Chef Hidekazu Tojo, officially recognized by the Japanese government as a goodwill ambassador for Japanese cuisine, is famous for creating the California Roll and popularizing Western-style sushi. While not explicitly monster-themed, the restaurant’s omakase experience offers portions worthy of kaiju-sized appetites, and Chef Tojo’s innovative spirit mirrors the groundbreaking special effects of the original Godzilla films.
The Fraser Street location might be off the main tourist track, but the precision and artistry of each course makes it worth the detour. Make sure to book well in advance, as seats at this acclaimed spot are highly sought after. While enjoying the meticulous preparation and presentation, you might be reminded of the careful attention to detail that went into creating Godzilla’s special effects. For more casual but equally impressive fare, Sushi Jin has earned acclaim for their traditional Edomae-style sushi.
Masayoshi
The Vancouver Japanese dining scene has gained international recognition with several Michelin-recommended establishments. Masayoshi, helmed by Chef Masayoshi Baba, stands out with its coveted Michelin star, offering an intimate omakase experience that’s limited to just 12 seats.
Ready to start your adventure?