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One Piece is one of the longest-running anime out there. It follows Luffy and his Straw Hat crew as they search for the treasure, One Piece. Throughout its impressive 1069 episodes (and counting), they embark on thrilling adventures across diverse islands.
Among the vast array of remarkable islands, some truly stand out for their uniqueness and allure. From the underwater wonders of Fish-Man Island to the prehistoric landscape of Little Garden, and the epic tale unfolding in the land of Wano, the series treats fans to awe-inspiring destinations.
But which are the most unique islands in One Piece?
10. Drum Island
Situated in the Grand Line, this enigmatic winter wonderland offers a striking contrast of icy landscapes and lush forests. The island’s prominent feature is the colossal Drum Rocks, an imposing mountain range that dominates the landscape and boasts the legendary Drum Castle atop its peaks.
Home to peculiar creatures like talking reindeer, Drum Island is a land of mystique and wonder. The island’s residents are fiercely resilient, braving the harsh cold and surviving under the rule of the sinister Wapol, the self-proclaimed king. The island’s history is intertwined with the charismatic doctor, Kureha, and her protege, Chopper, who later becomes a beloved member of the Straw Hat Pirates.
The rich storytelling, unique characters, and picturesque setting of Drum Island make it an unforgettable arc within the One Piece saga.
9. Punk Hazard
Situated in the New World, this island holds a mysterious past as an abandoned research facility of the enigmatic scientist, Dr. Vegapunk.
The island’s geography is strikingly divided into two extreme climates – half of it is engulfed in scorching flames, while the other is covered in relentless ice and snow. The cause of this climatic duality is revealed to be a powerful clash between two iconic figures of the One Piece world, Admiral Akainu, and Admiral Aokiji. Devil fruit users of magma and ice powers.
When the Straw Hat Pirates arrive on the island, they discover it is now inhabited by dangerous and unusual creatures, a result of Caesar Clown’s unethical experiments with artificial Devil Fruits. As they navigate the perilous environment, Luffy and his crew encounter old foes and forge new alliances, ultimately unraveling mysteries.
Did you know that Punk Hazard was inspired by a real place – Iceland?
8. Water 7
Located in the Grand Line, this metropolis stands as one of the most prominent and influential cities in the world of One Piece.
With its intricate canal system and towering structures, Water 7 boasts an architectural marvel where buildings are built upon enormous ships, creating a unique and vibrant atmosphere.
The city is renowned for its skilled shipwrights, most notably the Galley-La Company, who are famous for their craftsmanship in building and repairing sea-faring vessels.
The Straw Hat Pirates find themselves on Water 7 during the Water 7 Arc. Here, they confront internal conflicts and mounting external threats as they search for a shipwright to repair their beloved ship. The city’s dark underbelly and corrupt plot surrounding the powerful organization CP9 create suspense and intrigue.
However, Water 7 also offers moments of camaraderie and heartwarming interactions, especially with the introduction of Franky, the skilled shipwright, and a key member of the Straw Hat crew.
With its canals instead of roads, Water 7 was inspired by a real place too – Venice, Italy.
7. Boin Archipelago
Boin Archipelago, a cluster of lush islands in the Grand Line, served as Usopp’s training ground during the two-year time skip in One Piece.
The islands boast diverse terrains, dense forests, and exotic wildlife, providing an ideal environment for his growth. Under the guidance of mentor Heracles, Usopp honed his sharpshooting amidst ever-changing landscapes and faced challenges from fantastical creatures. The archipelago’s mysterious ruins and hidden sanctuaries added an aura of exploration to his journey. This rigorous training instilled in Usopp determination and courage, shaping him into a stronger and more self-assured member of the Straw Hat crew.
Initially inviting, the archipelago allures with delicious food scattered amid the Forest of Gluttony. But beneath its facade lies a grim reality – the islands themselves are massive, carnivorous plants that prey on animals feasting in the forests.
6. Skypiea
Skypiea Island, a wondrous and mythical land floating in the sky above the Grand Line, is a breathtaking marvel in the world of One Piece. Accessible only through the enigmatic Knock-Up Stream, the island presents an ethereal spectacle with its puffy, cotton-like clouds and awe-inspiring terrain.
The island is divided into several regions, each with its own distinct features. Angel Island houses the angelic inhabitants known as Skypieans, who are skilled in using dials – mysterious devices powered by the island’s unique energy source, Vearth. On the other hand, Upper Yard, a sacred place guarded by Enel, the self-proclaimed “God” of Skypiea, adds an aura of mysticism and danger to the island.
Skypiea is known for its Great Black Void, an enormous, seemingly bottomless pit that separates Angel Island from Upper Yard. Navigating the island’s shifting weather and unpredictable sea currents adds to the perilous charm of this floating realm.
As the Straw Hat Pirates explore Skypiea, they encounter captivating celestial phenomena, ancient ruins, and mythical creatures. The island’s rich history and enigmatic nature contribute to its allure, making it one of the most fantastical settings in the One Piece series.
5. Sabaody Archipelago
Sabaody Archipelago, a bustling and chaotic island cluster in the Grand Line, emerges as a pivotal and enthralling location in the world of One Piece. Comprising numerous interconnected mangrove trees, it creates a unique and bustling metropolis above the sea.
The island serves as a crucial hub for pirates, with the famous Sabaody Park acting as a marketplace where pirates from all over the world gather. The Slave Auction House, a dark and despicable establishment, further exemplifies the island’s harsh reality.
As the Straw Hat Pirates arrive at Sabaody Archipelago, they encounter formidable challenges. The island’s complex social structure, ruled by the powerful Celestial Dragons, adds tension and unpredictability to their journey.
Moreover, Sabaody Archipelago serves as a gateway to the perilous New World, where the Grand Line’s challenges escalate. The island marks a significant turning point in the series, as the crew faces the wrath of Admiral Kizaru and is separated by the unpredictable events triggered by the sinister Bartholomew Kuma.
The Sabaody Archipelago arc presents a compelling narrative and moral dilemmas, making it a riveting and critical chapter in the One Piece saga, showcasing both the vibrant and dark aspects of the world the Straw Hat Pirates inhabit.
4. Enies Lobby
Enies Lobby Island, a formidable and imposing fortress in the world of One Piece, stands as a symbol of the World Government’s power and tyranny. Located in the perilous waters of the Grand Line, the island serves as the judicial island of the World Government, housing the formidable World Government Headquarters.
The island’s architecture exudes an aura of grandeur and strength, with towering walls, massive gates, and the imposing Tower of Justice at its center. Enies Lobby Island is fortified with highly trained Marine soldiers and fearsome CP agents, making it a formidable challenge for any intruder.
The Straw Hat Pirates’ journey to Enies Lobby marks a significant turning point in the series, as they attempt to rescue their crewmate Nico Robin from the clutches of the World Government. The island’s foreboding atmosphere adds to the intensity of the arc, as the crew faces insurmountable odds and engages in epic battles to fulfill their mission.
The conflict on Enies Lobby Island showcases the crew’s unwavering determination and bonds of friendship, further elevating the emotional stakes and making it a memorable and pivotal arc in the One Piece saga.
3. Whole Cake Island
Whole Cake Island, a delectable paradise in the New World, is a masterful creation in the world of One Piece. Ruled by the formidable Yonko, Big Mom, this island is a confectionery wonderland with sprawling candy landscapes, luxurious sweets, and a majestic castle.
The island is the biggest out of the 35 in Totto Land. It was meant as a utopia for all races and to be as diverse as possible.
However, beneath the sugary facade lies a sinister reality. The island’s inhabitants live in fear of Big Mom’s cruel rule, with the threat of becoming ingredients for her monstrous hunger. The sinister underbelly of Whole Cake Island, where clandestine deals occur and dark secrets lurk, heightens the island’s mystique.
As the Straw Hat Pirates infiltrate the island to rescue Sanji, they navigate through treacherous territory, facing deadly adversaries like the Big Mom Pirates. The island’s vibrant beauty juxtaposed with its dark and dangerous side, showcases the intricate storytelling.
2. Zou
This massive island is located on top of the thousand year old Elephant, named Zunesha. Zunesha is cursed to roam the seas of the New World for the rest of its existence. The island is home to the Mink Tribe, a race of anthropomorphic animals with incredible abilities.
The lush forests and vibrant landscapes of Zou Island hold many secrets, including the mysterious history of the Mink Tribe and their connection to the ancient civilization of the world. The island’s unique transportation adds a fantastical element to its already mythical nature.
When the Straw Hat Pirates arrive at Zou, they become entangled in a series of events that lead them to uncover the secrets of this ancient land. Zou Island’s rich history, intriguing characters, and its living, moving form make it an unforgettable part of the One Piece saga.
1. Long Ring Long Land
Long Ring Long Land, a quirky and peculiar island in the Grand Line, brings a light-hearted and whimsical touch to the world of One Piece. It is a chain of ten islands in a ring shape, with a path between the islands that surfaces once every year.
Essentially everything on the island grows exceptionally long, from trees to even animals. It is said that’s because animals can live so freely that there aren’t any restraints here.
As the crew encounters the peculiarities of Long Ring Long Land, they also find themselves facing the eccentric Foxy Pirates in the Davy Back Fight, a series of comedic and competitive games.
Long Ring Long Land’s humorous and fun-filled nature creates a refreshing and entertaining arc in the One Piece saga. While not as perilous as some other locations, the island’s charm lies in its inventive and wacky challenges, showcasing the diverse and creative world-building that defines One Piece.
