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Welcome to Japan, Sushi Lovers!

When traveling to Japan and wanting to eat sushi, it is not uncommon for people to search for “All-You-Can-Eat Sushi.” That feeling is well understood! Sushi is a special treat for Japanese people, and sushi in high-end restaurants can be very expensive. Thus, “All-You-Can-Eat Sushi” is a convenient keyword for finding a sushi place where you can dine with peace of mind.

However, please check the reviews of such restaurants. You might find many negative comments. It would be regrettable for both you and us who welcome you if, during your rare opportunity to visit Japan and enjoy authentic sushi, you choose a low-quality sushi place to save money.

Of course, not all places that offer “all-you-can-eat” are low quality, but there are cases where guests repeatedly order only rare items like “O-toro” thinking “it’s all-you-can-eat, so why not!” This could result in customers who come later being unable to enjoy O-toro as it’s out of stock. Such situations pose challenges for the restaurant, and often, these establishments find it difficult to maintain good communication with customers over time, leading to a decline in service quality.

Most travelers probably seek to enjoy “quality and fresh sushi with clear and reasonable pricing.” In large cities like Tokyo and Osaka, you have options ranging from ultra-high-end to budget-friendly places. However, reputed shops are always crowded, and especially with affordable, delicious places, it becomes challenging to leisurely enjoy sushi.

This article will navigate you through the often-underlooked core of Japanese sushi culture: astonishing local sushi shops found especially near fishing ports in the countryside. Here, you’ll encounter unmatched freshness and unique flavors reflecting the local sea and traditions, often at surprisingly good prices.

Let’s embark on an unforgettable food adventure!

Challenges with “All-You-Can-Eat”

There are several reasons why foreign tourists might search for “All-You-Can-Eat.”

1. Budget Management: Having a clear price is reassuring.
2. Diversity: You can try many kinds without deciphering complex menus.
3. Ease of Order: It reduces the hassle of ordering when there’s a language barrier.

However, focusing solely on “all-you-can-eat” might sometimes mean compromising on quality. What many travelers truly value may actually be these points:

• Reliable Quality: Fish should be fresh and skillfully prepared by artisans.
• Clear Pricing: Enjoy delicious sushi without unexpected expenses.
• Genuine Experience: Taste sushi unique to the region.
• Comfortable Atmosphere: Feel welcomed with photo menus or some English guidance available.

This article focuses on establishments that provide exactly these offerings—shops that deliver exceptional sushi, good value, and authentic Japanese flavors.

Regional Sushi as the “Terroir” of the Sea

Much like wine has “terroir,” where the land shapes the flavor, Japanese sushi is incredibly diverse depending on the region. Unique coastlines, histories, and cultures of each area have cultivated distinct styles of sushi.

It’s not just about sushi you often see, like nigiri. You might encounter sushi such as:

• Masu Sushi (Toyama): Flavorful pressed sushi with fatty trout and vinegared rice wrapped in bamboo leaves.
• Saba Sushi (Fukui/Kyoto): Traditional sushi along the Sea of Japan coast using lightly pickled mackerel.
• Tekkone Sushi (Mie): A fisherman’s hearty meal mixing soy sauce-marinated bonito or tuna with rice.
• Kaki-no-ha Sushi (Nara): Sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves for flavor and preservation.

Tasting such local sushi is an experience that goes beyond dining; it’s a precious opportunity to touch the culture and history of the land. It will surely be etched in your memory of your journey for a long time.

The Charm of Sushi Enjoyed Near Fishing Ports

Japan is surrounded by seas on all sides, with many fishing ports nationwide. A large amount of the fish and seafood unloaded is transported to major consumer areas like the capital region with various freshness maintenance innovations.

Today, with the development of temperature control and aeration technology, it is possible to transport live seafood over long distances, so you can very well enjoy fresh sushi even in central Tokyo. However, enjoying sushi near a fishing port in a peaceful provincial city, feeling the presence of the sea, offers an overwhelmingly fresh and exceptional taste.

Imagine this: Fish unloaded at the port in the morning is served to customers at local sushi shops by lunch, made possible by this proximity.

• Unparalleled flavor and texture: Melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, natural sweetness, and subtle flavors. Taste the fish at its finest.
• Meeting rare local fish: Discover rare and seasonal fish not seen in city restaurants.
• The charm of local towns adding color to your journey: Enjoy meals while taking in the scenery of unique port towns and interacting with the locals.

These experiences, directly connecting with the source of ingredients, make meals even more special.

Examples of Savoring Affordable Sushi in Provincial Cities

In Japan, surrounded by seas on all sides, it is possible to enjoy authentic sushi at reasonable prices no matter where you travel. Thus, there are many sushi places we can recommend, making it difficult to narrow down. Here, we are introducing sushi restaurants that are easy for foreign tourists to use and are well-known for their freshness, quality, and connection with local fishing ports.

Let me first introduce a shop in Niigata prefecture where I live.

SUSHI DINING Sazanami

Location: 〒942-0061 5-2-3 Kasugashinden, Joetsu City, Niigata Prefecture
Website: https://sushidiningsazanami.com
Opening Hours:
11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
5:30 PM – 10:00 PM
Price Range: ¥1000~2000
Features: Located 5 minutes by car from Naoetsu Port. Nearby are fishing ports such as Nou Port, where seafood from the Sea of Japan is actively unloaded. The sushi chef/owner directly procures fish from the port. Affordable set menus are available at lunchtime.
Nigiri Lunch: ¥990 (8 pieces of nigiri, small dish, miso soup, chawanmushi)
Special Lunch with O-toro: ¥2,750 (7 pieces of nigiri, negitoro roll, tempura, small dish, miso soup, chawanmushi)
Highly recommended is the
Sushi Zanmai: ¥1,540 (12 pieces of nigiri, small dish, miso soup, chawanmushi)
enabling you to indulge in nigiri sushi.

Sado no Sushi Benkei

Location: 〒950-2002 2-5-1 Aoyama, Nishi-ku, Niigata City, Niigata Prefecture
Access: From JR Niigata Station, take the JR Echigo Line to Aoyama Station (12 minutes)
Walk to AEON Niigata Aoyama Store from Aoyama Station.
※ Other branch stores available
Website: https://sado-benkei.com
Price Range: ¥1000～2000 (Lunch)
Features: With its main store on Sado Island, it has locations in Niigata City and the Tokyo metropolitan area as well. The pricing varies by store, but the above location is in a family-friendly shopping center offering cost-effective set menus, making it a reliable option.
Chains that operate multiple locations often excel in procuring seafood, allowing you to enjoy quality sushi at affordable prices. However, prioritizing cheap prices too much may compromise quality. In this sense, “Sado no Sushi Benkei” is a very well-regarded shop.

The selections below are focused on shops offering great value and a local taste experience. (Note: Price ranges are indicative. “English support” refers to the availability of menus or the possibility of staff assistance in English. Always check the latest reviews, and consider reservations, especially at smaller venues.)

Toyama & Ishikawa: Jewels of the Sea of Japan

Himi Kitokito Sushi Himi Main Store

Location: 〒935-0037 65 Kamiizumi, Himi City, Toyama Prefecture
Website: https://kitokito.jp/shop/shop=17
Access: A few minutes by car/taxi from Himi Station.
Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Closed on Wednesdays)
Price Range: ¥2,000 – 3,000 (Very reasonable for its quality, especially for lunch)
English Support: Menu available (English & Chinese). Many touch-panel order systems support multiple languages.
Features: Offering incredibly fresh fish directly from Himi Port, with a rich selection. Essential dishes in winter include “Buri” and “Shiro Ebi.”

Kanazawa Maimon Sushi Main Store

Location: 〒920-0027 3-20-7 Ekishi Shinmachi, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture
Website: https://www.maimon-susi.com/shop/ekinishi/
Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM
Price Range: ¥1,500 – 3,000 (Premium conveyor-belt sushi. Specific items worth splurging on)
English Support: English menu available. A vegetarian menu presented in part.
Highlights: Elegant atmosphere, specialized in premium seafood from the Noto Peninsula.
Access: Bus or taxi from Kanazawa Station.
Features: Popular for local premium ingredients like “Nodoguro” and “Gas Ebi.” High-quality conveyor-belt sushi.

Hyogo: Bounty of the Akashi Strait

Kikusui Sushi

Location: 〒673-0885 11-6 Sakuramachi, Akashi City, Hyogo Prefecture
Website: http://kikusui-sushi.net/
Access: 7 minutes on foot from Akashi Station
Opening Hours:
11:30 AM – 2:00 PM
5:30 PM – 9:00 PM
(Closed on Thursdays)
Price Range: Nigiri ¥2,200～ (Omakase course around ¥8,000)
English Support: Some English menus might be available; pointing or translation apps are reliable.
Highlights: Historical ambiance, known for local specialties.
Features: Famous for Akashi specialties like “Anago” and “Tako.” Established in 1897, this traditional store offers classic pricing and sushi serving styles.

Sushi Soju

Website: None (As of April 2025)
Location: 〒673-0892 1-3-21-2 Honmachi, Akashi City, Hyogo Prefecture
Opening Hours:
11:30 AM – 2:00 PM
5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
(Closed on Wednesdays)
Price Range: ¥1,200 (Lunch set)～
English Support: Limited. Photo menus may help.
Highlights: Affordable lunches, more expensive dinners and omakase. Bustling fish market ensures freshness.
Access: 7 minutes on foot from Akashi Station.
Features: Known for fresh seafood from the famous Akashi noon net. Enjoy various Anago styles—grilled, simmered, and seared. Affordable lunch sets available.

Hokkaido: Treasure Trove of Seafood

Conveyor Belt Sushi Nemuro Hanamaru

Location: 〒087-0045 9-35 Hanazonocho, Nemuro City, Hokkaido
Website: https://www.sushi-hanamaru.com/store/details/s01.html
Phone: 0153-24-1444
Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Access: 11-minute walk from Nemuro Station. Also available at Stella Place directly connected to JR Sapporo Station.
Price Range: ¥2,000 – 3,000 (Very cost-effective conveyor belt sushi)
English Support: English support is often available at tourist-heavy locations (e.g., Sapporo Station).
Highlights: High quality for a conveyor belt sushi place, a commitment to Nemuro origin.
Features: Multiple branches, including in the Tokyo metropolitan area. Originating from Nemuro, popular Sapporo branch, centered on fresh and seasonal ingredients from Eastern Hokkaido and Nemuro. Unique items like “Sanma” and “Nishin” available.

Conveyor Belt Sushi Triton

Location: Kita 8-jou Kosei Store 〒060-0908 5-19-1 Kita 8 Jou Higashi, Higashi-ku, Sapporo City, Hokkaido
Website: https://toriton-kita1.jp
(Multiple locations primarily in Hokkaido and also in Tokyo)
Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Price Range: ¥2,000 – 4,000 (Good value conveyor belt sushi)
English Support: Often available at locations in Sapporo.
Highlights: Popular local chain, big satisfying pieces.
Access: 13-minute walk from JR Sapporo Station
Features: Known for its large sushi pieces. Offers a wide variety from staple options to unique local Hokkaido selections.

Focus on the Tohoku Region: The Strength and Flavor of the Coast

The Tohoku region boasts beautiful coastlines and wonderful seafood. Savoring sushi here is also connecting with local communities and discovering unique flavors.

Sushi Toku

Website: http://www.sushitoku.jp/
Location: 〒985-0025 3-16 Sauracho, Shiogama City, Miyagi Prefecture
Phone: 022-364-3245
Opening Hours:
11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
4:30 PM – 9:00 PM
(Closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays)
Price Range: ¥1,100 – 3,500
English Support: This store has a comprehensive website with listings and prices, making it particularly recommendable for foreign tourists. You can understand store information via Google Translate, and using English translations can also be handy for point-and-order.
Highlights: Authentic sushi with reliable technique at affordable prices.
Web-only coupons available.
Access: Within walking distance from JR Tohoku Main Line Shiogama Station or JR Senseki Line Nishi-Shiogama Station
Features: Sushi Toku, a beloved local sushi shop in Shiogama City, Miyagi Prefecture, is a hidden gem that offers taste unrivaled by high-end stores at reasonable prices. Known for its exquisite variety of premium tuna from Shiogama, its signature dish, “Maguro Zukushi,” with three different flavors of O-toro, Chu-toro, and Akami, is one of a kind. Especially noteworthy is its O-toro, said to be exceptional. There’s also premium seasonal ocean delights like thick Hon-gayahagi sashimi and fluffy grilled black cod.
The “Assorted Nigiri” set, priced from ¥1,100, boasts thick and satiating toppings. Slightly larger than typical sizes, its nigiri sushi comes with comforting miso soup as delightful service.
The diner features counter and low table seating, providing a relaxed and casual dining environment. The ordering system involves filling in a slip, making group dine-in smooth.

Kiku Sushi

Location: 〒033-0001 2-11-2 Chuomachi, Misawa City, Aomori Prefecture
Website: https://kite-misawa.com/misawa/kikusushi/
Phone: 017-653-3476
Opening Hours: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Price Range: ¥1,000 – 2,000
English Support: As there is a US military Misawa Air Base in this town, they are flexible in handling foreigners.
Highlights: A sushi store with a 60-year history
Access: A 29-minute walk from Aoimori Railway Misawa Station. 5 minutes by car.
Features: Near Misawa fishing port. Famous for fresh squid, flatfish, and surf clams. Popular options include lunch-only specials like “Hokkidon” (clam rice bowl) and “Salmon, Uni, and Ikura Rice Bowl.”

Focus on Kyushu Region: Gifts of the Southern Islands

Being close to the Asian continent and warm currents, Kyushu offers unique fish species and local sushi styles.

Sushi Hiro

Website: http://www.sushi-hiro.com
Location: 〒857-2427 1909 Mase-cho, Oshima-cho, Saikai City, Nagasaki Prefecture
Phone: 095-934-2032
Opening Hours:
11:30 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Price Range: ¥1,000 – 3,000
English Support: Unknown. Since the menu and prices are available on the website, you can view it via browser translation.
Highlights: All-you-can-eat available (reservation required)
Access:
① By car: Takes 47 minutes via Saikai Road/Route 202 (35.2 km)
② By high-speed boat: Walk 9 minutes from Sasebo Station to Kujirase Terminal (600m). 26 minutes on a high-speed boat from Saikai Coast Shipping to Oshima Port. A 13-minute walk from Oshima Port to Sushi Hiro (1km).
Features: Sushi Hiro, a hidden gem in Saikai, Nagasaki Prefecture, boasts authentic sushi with fresh local ingredients. These bigger-than-usual pieces are filling; especially heralded are the striped jack and sea urchin.
The surprise is the all-you-can-eat sushi, priced at ¥2,900 for men and ¥2,400 for women (as of the survey). Indulge in genuine sushi with premium toppings.
At the counter, watch the craft of professional chefs as live fish are prepared right before your eyes. The thick, ample toppings are a bounty of the island’s rich sea, a genuine sushi feast beloved by locals.

Hakata Toyoichi Nagahama Shokudo

Website: https://hakata-toyoichi.owst.jp
Location: 〒810-0072 2-5-25 Nagahama, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka Prefecture
Phone: 092-753-7500
Opening Hours:
11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Price Range: ¥1,500 – 3,000
English Support: The buffet-style lets you pick your sushi and have the staff confirm the count, minimizing language barriers. The website supports English, Korean, and Chinese.
Highlights: Coupons for all-you-can-eat courses are available on the website.
① Enjoy all 60 kinds of sushi! [Sushi Zammai Course] 90 minute all-you-can-drink included ¥4,950 → ¥4,400
② All 300 items! All-you-can-eat sushi! [Hakata Toyoichi Omakase Course] 90 minute all-you-can-drink included ¥6,050 → ¥5,500
Access: A 11-minute walk from Subway Airport Line Akasaka Station (750m).
Features: Located right in front of Fukuoka City’s Nagahama Market, “Hakata Toyoichi Nagahama Shokudo” is a seafood restaurant famed for its sushi buffet, a hot topic on social media. Despite a narrow frontage, the interior surprisingly spreads out to a spacious dining area.
The main attraction is the sushi buffet, available at a stunning ¥120 per piece—a standout feature boasting cost performance with prime parts such as O-toro and sea perch included at the same single-price. Thicker-cut, large pieces provide satisfaction aplenty.
In-store, enjoy the unique Nagahama panorama with fish swimming in a large tank while dining. Besides buffet, hearty set meals, tempura, and kaisendon (seafood bowls) are available, with lunch sets priced at an impressive ¥1,200.
Expect crowds at this popular eatery, yet online reservations spare you the long queues while ensuring good table turnover, offering convenience.
The takeout service is also lauded, letting you relish sushi of higher quality than supermarket fare at home.

Tips for a Successful Sushi Experience in the Countryside

Visiting local sushi shops is part and parcel of the adventure of traveling. Here are some tips to ensure success:

1. Do your research: Use Google Maps, Tabelog (employ browser translation if no English version), and TripAdvisor. Check reviews regarding freshness, local specialties, pricing, and opening hours. Some stores even post coupons on their websites!
2. Plan your transportation: Rural areas may have infrequent public transit. Check train and bus timetables in advance, or consider renting a car if you’re exploring broadly. Leverage navigation apps.
3. Enjoy local specialties: Try regional specialties even if unfamiliar. Ask the staff for “osusume (recommendations).”
4. Language Barrier: Don’t overly worry. Many places have picture menus. Download a translation app (e.g., Google Translate with camera functionality) for convenience. Simple words like “Arigato (Thank you)” and “Oishii (Delicious)” are appreciated.
5. Budget: Prices vary. Generally, conveyor-belt sushi is affordable. Traditional counter sushi stores range from budget to luxury. Check prices online in advance if possible. Lunch sets are often good value.
6. Basic Etiquette: Nigiri sushi can be eaten with clean hands or chopsticks. Apply minimal soy sauce to the fish side (avoid soaking the rice). Gari (ginger) is for palate cleansing. Ideally, enjoy all in one bite.
7. How to order: Options include ordering by menu, pointing (especially effective in conveyor-belt sushi or with pictures), or trying “omakase” (chef’s choice, sometimes with budget indication) at the counter.
8. Reservations: We recommend reservations at small popular spots or traditional places. Request the hotel concierge or go online if possible.

Conclusion: Savoring Authentic Japan, One Blissful Bite at a Time

Traveling to Japan’s provinces and discovering delicious local sushi is more than just a meal. It entails tasting unparalleled fresh seafood just off the net, experiencing unique flavors cultivated by the area’s culture, and connecting with the essence of Japanese culinary art.

“All-You-Can-Eat Sushi” can be enticing, but uncovering hidden gems—trusted high-quality sushi at reasonable prices favored by locals—will enrich and immortalize your trip.

Leave behind the hustle of the city and visit Japan’s beautiful coastal regions. Use this article as a starting point, stay curious, and get ready to taste the best sushi Japan has to offer.

So enjoy your sushi!

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Disclaimer:

Restaurant information (prices, English support, opening hours, etc.) may change. Be sure to verify details before visiting.

This article is a machine translation of the content originally written in Japanese, so please understand that there may be some parts that are difficult to read.

The Global Influence of Japanese Anime

Japanese anime is now loved worldwide as entertainment, and its influence is immeasurable. With its precise animation, heart-stirring stories, and colorful characters, anime captivates many people by transcending language and cultural barriers. Anime events are held worldwide, and cosplay serves as an international exchange platform. Anime represents Japan’s pop culture and plays a critical role in increasing interest in Japan. For anime fans, “pilgrimage” is a special act that deepens their love for the works.

What is Pilgrimage?

“Pilgrimage” refers to visiting places that appear in anime, manga, games, and such, or the locations they are modeled after. Originally a religious term, in recent years, it has been widely used in the subculture realm.

The appeal of pilgrimage lies in the immersion in the world of the works, which is different from a mere sightseeing trip. Seeing the landscapes from anime unfold before your eyes and tracing the characters’ footsteps deepens understanding and affection for the works. Additionally, interacting with other fans and making new discoveries are the joys of pilgrimage.

Why Pilgrimage in Japan?

Japan is the birthplace of anime and manga culture, making it the “home” of pilgrimage. The country’s beautiful landscapes and diverse locations (urban, natural, historical sites) are appealing settings for anime. Moreover, there are many anime production companies and related facilities (museums, etc.) that can be enjoyed in conjunction with pilgrimage. The well-developed transportation infrastructure, safety, and culture of hospitality make Japan a reassuring destination for international tourists. Pilgrimage in Japan will be an unforgettable experience with special meaning for anime fans.

Preparing for a Pilgrimage

Information Gathering

• Official Information: Check trustworthy sources like official anime websites, tourism association sites, and local government sites. Look for event information, limited-edition goods, and collaboration projects.
• Fan Sites, Blogs, SNS: Refer to experienced peoples’ stories, detailed maps, photos, and points of caution. Utilize hashtag searches (e.g., #聖地巡礼, #[workname]聖地巡礼, #AnimePilgrimage).
• Points of Caution: Pay attention to the freshness and credibility of the information. Use personal blogs as reference only.

Travel Planning

• Timing: Consider event dates and seasons (like cherry blossoms, autumn leaves). To avoid crowds, aim for weekdays or the off-season.
• Duration: If visiting multiple sites, ensure your schedule includes ample time. Consider travel times as well.
• Budget: Pre-calculate travel, accommodation, meal, and souvenir expenses.
• Accommodation: Book hotels, inns, or guesthouses near pilgrimage sites. There might be anime-themed rooms available.
• Transportation:
• Japan Rail Pass: A pass allowing unlimited travel on JR lines nationwide for international tourists.
• Others: Seishun 18 Kippu (for limited periods), highway buses, rental cars (international license needed), rental cycles, etc.

Essentials and Other Items

• Essentials: Smartphone (maps, translation, camera), mobile battery, cash, IC transit cards (Suica, PASMO, etc.), writing tools, basic medicines.
• Convenient Items: Anime goods, a foldable umbrella, comfortable shoes, hat, sunscreen (for summer), warm clothing (for winter).
• Other Items: Learning Japanese, translation app, Wi-Fi router, overseas travel insurance.

Enjoying and Mindful of Pilgrimage

Ways to Enjoy

• Photography: Recreate anime scenes, photograph with character goods, or capture the scenery of the pilgrimage sites. Sharing on social media is part of the fun (make use of hashtags).
• Tips: Shoot from the same angle, use goods, engage in cosplay (might need permission).
• Local Gourmet: Enjoy dishes featured in anime or limited-time gourmet foods at pilgrimage sites. Asking locals for recommendations is also good.
• Event Participation: Partake in regional events tied to anime or voice actors’ talk shows.
• Engage with Locals: Talk to residents or write messages in pilgrimage notebooks.

Points of Caution and Courtesy

• Consideration for Residents: Avoid making noise, do not litter, do not enter private properties.
• Photography: Do not photograph people without permission. Do not photograph in forbidden areas. Obtain permission for photography within stores or private properties.
• Cosplay: Avoid changing clothes in public places and overt exposure.
• Safety: Follow traffic rules, avoid walking alone at night, take heed of weather and attire in nature.

Pilgrimage Spots Introduction by Region

Kanto Region

Features: Centered around Tokyo, a wide variety of pilgrimage sites available. Offers a broad range of locations from urban to nature-filled places.

Access: The metropolitan area has developed transportation networks, making travel by train or bus convenient.

Pilgrimage Examples

Tokyo 23 Wards:

‘Love Live!’ (Akihabara)

• Highlights: Akihabara UDX (live scenes), AKIHABARA Gamers Main Store (store visited by μ’s), Shohei Bridge (practice area), Kanda Shrine (prayer site).
• Access: A short walk from the Electric Town exit of JR Akihabara Station (each facility).
• Surroundings: Anime shops, maid cafes, Electric Town.
• Notes: Photography within stores is permitted, get crowded on weekends.

‘STEINS;GATE’ (Akihabara)

• Highlights: Radio Kaikan (time machine), building modeled after Future Gadget Laboratory.
• Access: Close to the Electric Town exit of JR Akihabara Station (Radio Kaikan).
• Surroundings: Electric Town, anime shops.
• Notes: Entry to the building is restricted to authorized personnel.

‘Tokyo Ghoul’ (Ikebukuro, Ueno, etc.)

• Highlights: Cafe that modeled Anteiku (location non-disclosed, identified by fans), Ueno Park.
• Access: Around Ikebukuro Station, Ueno Station.
• Notes: Acts of nuisance at the modeled cafe are strictly prohibited.

‘Weathering With You’ (Shinjuku, Yoyogi)

• Highlights: Intersection behind Shinjuku Police Station, Weather Shrine (Koenji Hikawa Shrine), Yoyogi Kaikan (demolished), etc.
• Access: Various lines from Shinjuku Station, Koenji Station.
• Notes: Yoyogi Kaikan has been demolished.

‘Your Name.’ (Shinjuku, Yotsuya, etc.)

• Highlights: Suga Shrine (staircase), Shinjuku Gyoen.
• Access: Walk from JR Yotsuya Station (Suga Shrine), Shinjuku Gyoenmae Station on foot (Shinjuku Gyoen).
• Notes: Shinjuku Gyoen charges an admission fee.

Tokyo Suburbs:

‘My Neighbor Totoro’ (Tokorozawa City)

• Highlights: Totoro Forest (Sayama Hills, walking paths), Model for Shichikokuyama Hospital (Shinyamate Hospital, exterior only).
• Access: By bus from Seibu Line’s Kotesashi Station (Totoro Forest), by bus from Hachioji Station (Shinyamate Hospital).
• Notes: Entry to the hospital is not permitted, exterior only.

‘The Anthem of the Heart’ (Yokose Town, etc.)

• Highlights: Hitsujiyama Park (moss phlox), Old Chichibu Bridge.
• Access: Walk from Yokose Station on the Seibu Chichibu Line (Hitsujiyama Park), walk from Seibu Chichibu Station (Old Chichibu Bridge).

Kanagawa Prefecture:

‘Slam Dunk’ (Kamakura High School Front Station)

• Highlights: The railroad crossing from the anime’s opening.
• Access: Right at the Kamakura High School Front Station on Enoshima Electric Railway.
• Notes: Be careful not to obstruct traffic during photography.

‘TARI TARI’ (Enoshima)

• Highlights: Enoshima Benten Bridge, Enoshima Shrine.
• Access: Walk from Enoshima Station on the Enoshima Electric Railway.

‘Bungou Stray Dogs’ (Yokohama)

• Highlights: Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse, Yamashita Park, Yokohama Chinatown.
• Access: A walk from each station of the Minato Mirai Line.

Saitama Prefecture:

‘Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day’ (Chichibu City)

• Highlights: Old Chichibubashi, Jorinji Temple, Chichibu Shrine.
• Access: Walk or take a bus from Seibu Railway Seibu Chichibu Station or Chichibu Railway Chichibu Station.

Kansai Region

Features: Kyoto, Osaka, Hyogo, with their historical city landscapes and unique urban scenery.

Access: Developed networks of shinkansen, trains, and buses.

Pilgrimage Examples

Kyoto Prefecture:

‘K-On!’ (Around Shugakuin Station)

• Highlights: Former Toyosato Elementary School Building Complex (modeled after Sakuragaoka High School, open for visits), Shugakuin Station.
• Access: Walk from Eizan Electric Railway Shugakuin Station. Walk from Ohmi Railway Toyosato Station to Toyosato Elementary School.

‘The Eccentric Family’ (Shimogamo Shrine, Demachi Masugata Shopping Street, etc.)

• Highlights: Shimogamo Shrine, Demachi Masugata Shopping Street.
• Access: Walk from Keihan Demachiyanagi Station (Shimogamo Shrine, Shopping Street).

‘Sound! Euphonium’ (Uji City)

• Highlights: Uji Bridge, Uji Shrine, Byodoin Temple.
• Access: Walk from JR Uji Station, Keihan Uji Station.

Hyogo Prefecture:

‘The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya’ (Nishinomiya City)

• Highlights: Along Hankyu Koyo Line, North Nishinomiya High School (exterior), Cafe Dream (the cafe that served as a model).
• Access: Each station along the Hankyu Koyo Line.
• Notes: Entry to the high school is not allowed.

Osaka Prefecture:

‘Hypnosis Mic’ (America Mura, Dotonbori)

• Highlights: Triangle Park, Dotonbori Glico sign.
• Access: Walk from each subway line’s Namba Station, Shinsaibashi Station.

Chubu Region

Features: Rich in nature with oceans, mountains, and hot springs.

Access: Utilize shinkansen, trains, and buses.

Pilgrimage Examples

Shizuoka Prefecture:

‘Love Live! Sunshine!!’ (Numazu City Uchiura)

• Highlights: Mito Sea Bathing Beach, Nagaizaki Middle School (model), Yasudaya Inn (model).
• Access: By bus from JR Numazu Station (toward Uchiura).

Nagano Prefecture:

‘Summer Wars’ (Ueda City)

• Highlights: Ueda Castle Ruins Park, Ueda Electric Railway Bessho Line.
• Access: Walk from JR Ueda Station (Ueda Castle Ruins Park).

Aichi Prefecture:

‘Hypnosis Mic’ (Nagoya Sakae)

• Highlights: Oasis 21.
• Access: Sakae Station of Nagoya City Subway.

Hokkaido

Features: Expansive nature, unique culture.

Access: Use airports like New Chitose and Hakodate. Within Hokkaido, use JR, buses, or rental cars.

Pilgrimage Examples

Across Hokkaido:

‘Golden Kamuy’

• Highlights: Abashiri Prison Museum (modeled after Abashiri Prison), Hokkaido University (modeled after Sapporo Agricultural College), Otaru Canal, Hakodate Goryokaku, etc.
• Access: Use JR, buses for each area.

Hakodate City:

‘Love Live! Sunshine!!’

• Highlights: Hakodate Arena, Goryokaku Tower.
• Access: Use city tram, buses, etc.

Toyako Town:

‘Celestial Method’

• Highlights: Lake Toya, Toyako Onsen.
• Access: Bus from JR Toya Station to Toyako Onsen.

Haboro Town:

‘Kimi ni Todoke’

• Highlights: Model for Haboro High School (scenery), Haboro Shrine.
• Access: Take a high-speed bus from Sapporo to Haboro Town.

Summary

Pilgrimage serves as a special journey where one can experience the world of anime firsthand. It deepens affection for the works and provides new discoveries and emotions. Use this guide to carefully prepare, mind the manners, and enjoy a safe pilgrimage. Make your own incredible memories.

This blog will continuously provide information about pilgrimage. Updates on the latest information and events are planned. Please check regularly. We’re also sharing information on SNS (Twitter, Instagram, etc.). Please search with the hashtags “#聖地巡礼” “#AnimePilgrimage”.

Appendix

Q&A

• Q: Can pilgrimage be enjoyed alone?
  A: Yes, it can be enjoyed alone. You can take your time to visit the sites at your own pace, and you can connect with other fans through pilgrimage notebooks.
• Q: What is the recommended clothing for pilgrimage?
  A: Comfortable walking shoes and easy-to-move-in clothing are recommended. In summer, bring a hat and sunscreen, and in winter, bring warm clothing.
• Q: How much money does a pilgrimage cost?
  A: Costs vary depending on personal plans, including travel, accommodation, meal, and souvenir expenses. Plan your budget beforehand.
• Q: Is it okay if I can’t speak the language?
  A: Knowing some simple Japanese is helpful. Utilize translation apps and gestures as well.