【The Sky Where You Know the Blue】Konosu City, Saitama Prefecture
The theatrical anime “The Sky Where You Know the Blue” (hereafter referred to as Soraaoi), which was released in October 2019, is a coming-of-age story set in Chichibu City, Saitama Prefecture. As the final installment of director Ryusei Nagai’s Chichibu trilogy following “Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day” and “Kokuhaku,” many fans visit as sacred site pilgrims.
This article will comprehensively introduce pilgrimage spots in Chichibu City, Saitama Prefecture, which is a sacred site for Soraaoi. We provide comprehensive information useful for those planning pilgrimage trips, including detailed information about locations that appeared in the work, access methods, and photography tips.
What is “The Sky Where You Know the Blue”? The Reason Chichibu Was Chosen as the Setting
“The Sky Where You Know the Blue” is a work depicting the bond between sisters and feelings toward the past. Chichibu City, Saitama Prefecture, where the story takes place, is a nature-rich town located approximately 80km from central Tokyo and has become a special place for director Ryusei Nagai.
Positioning as the Chichibu Trilogy
Chichibu City was chosen as the setting for all three works following “Anohana” and “Kokuhaku.” While each work deals with different themes, the local townscape and rich nature of Chichibu play an important role in expressing the inner feelings of the characters.
In Soraaoi, the unique atmosphere that cannot be tasted in urban areas—such as the terrain surrounded by Chichibu’s mountains, old-fashioned shopping streets, and quiet residential areas—is deeply connected to the core of the story. Many real locations in Chichibu appear, such as scenes where the protagonist Aoi performs on bass and the tunnel where Akane is trapped, giving realism to the work’s world.
Access Methods to Chichibu City, Saitama Prefecture
Here we introduce access methods to Chichibu City, the starting point for sacred site pilgrimages. Access from the Tokyo area is convenient, and you can enjoy pilgrimage even for a day trip.
Access by Train
Seibu Railway Route (Recommended)
- Approximately 78 minutes from Ikebukuro Station on the Seibu Ikebukuro Line’s “Limited Express Laview” or “Limited Express Red Arrow” to Seibu-Chichibu Station
- Approximately 90 minutes by local train
- Fare: Approximately 1,500 yen one way including limited express fare
Chichibu Railway Route
- Approximately 70 minutes from Kumagaya Station on the Chichibu Railway to Chichibu Station
- Connected to the JR Takasaki Line, making it convenient for access from the Northern Kanto region
Access by Car
- Approximately 30km (approximately 50 minutes) via National Route 140 from “Hanazono IC” on the Kan-Etsu Expressway
- Approximately 39km (approximately 70 minutes) via National Route 299 from “Sayama-Hidaka IC” on the Shuto Expressway
There are multiple paid parking lots around Seibu-Chichibu Station, available for approximately 500 to 1,000 yen per day. However, as weekends and tourist season tend to be crowded, we recommend using public transportation.
Access by Highway Bus
For visitors from the Kansai region or remote areas, using a night bus is also convenient. You can access Seibu-Chichibu Station via Kawagoe Station. With early morning arrival, you can make effective use of the entire day.
“The Sky Where You Know the Blue” – Complete Guide to Major Sacred Sites
We will introduce in detail the major sacred sites that appeared in the work, organized by scene. We also explain the positional relationships of each spot and photography points.
1. Old Chichibu Bridge (Chichibu Park Bridge)
Most Important Sacred Pilgrimage Spot
The old Chichibu Bridge is a symbolic location of the Chichibu trilogy, appearing not only in Soraaoi but also in Anohana and Kokuhaku. This bridge spanning the Arakawa River is a historic bridge built in the Taisho era and is now exclusively for pedestrians and cyclists.
In the work, it appears in scenes where Aoi and Shinnosuke converse and in several important scenes. The landscape of the Chichibu mountains and Arakawa River seen from the bridge embodies the work’s world view.
Photography Tips
- Photographing from near the center of the bridge toward the Chichibu city area gets closest to the composition in the work
- Photography at dusk is recommended (the sky color is beautiful)
- Pay attention to the railing design as well
Access
- Approximately 15 minutes walk from Seibu-Chichibu Station
- Approximately 10 minutes walk from Chichibu Station
2. Seibu-Chichibu Station
Seibu-Chichibu Station serves as the base for pilgrimage, and the station forecourt and building appear in the work. It was renovated in 2017, and a hot spring facility called “Matsuri no Yu” is now adjacent to the station.
Full-sized panels and posters from the Chichibu trilogy are displayed in the station and station area, enhancing the pilgrimage atmosphere. Also, the tourist information office distributes pilgrimage maps for free—make sure to get one.
Points of Interest
- Station forecourt landscape
- Station building exterior
- Around the ticket gate
3. Ohanabatake Station (Shibazakura Station)
Ohanabatake Station on the Chichibu Railway appears in scenes such as when Shinnosuke gets off the train. Though it’s a small local station, it’s an important spot for experiencing everyday Chichibu.
The station’s platform and building atmosphere are faithfully recreated in the work, making it a must-see place for fans.
Access
- Approximately 5 minutes walk from Seibu-Chichibu Station
- One station from Chichibu Station on the Chichibu Railway
4. Urayama Dam (Sakura Lake)
Urayama Dam appears in an important scene in the work. This 156-meter-high gravity concrete dam is spectacular in scale. The hermitage where Aoi practices bass playing is modeled after a place in this dam area.
From the top of the dam, you can see a panoramic view of Chichibu’s mountains, allowing you to experience the vast sky and natural beauty depicted in the work.
Photography Points
- Full view of the dam body
- Landscape of the dam lake (Sakura Lake)
- Surrounding mountain ranges
Access
- Approximately 30 minutes from Seibu-Chichibu Station by Chichibu City Bus “Urayama Dainichido”
- Few buses, so checking the timetable in advance is essential
- Parking available by car
5. Chichibu Muse Park
Chichibu Muse Park is an important location where a music festival scene unfolds in the work. Within the vast park are an observation deck, music hall, sports facilities, and more, and it’s also known as a scenic spot overlooking the Chichibu cityscape.
The music hall scene in the work is modeled after an actual outdoor stage, and standing in the same place allows you to relive the work’s emotion.
Points of Interest
- Outdoor stage (music hall)
- View of Chichibu cityscape from the observation deck
- Walking paths in the park
Access
- Approximately 20 minutes from Seibu-Chichibu Station by Chichibu Muse Park shuttle bus
- Since the park is vast, moving within is recommended by foot or rental bicycle
6. Chichibu City Hall Vicinity
Chichibu City Hall and the surrounding townscape also appear in the work. The building exterior of city hall and the atmosphere of nearby shopping streets are faithfully depicted.
In particular, the street in front of city hall is used in scenes such as when Akane cycles, allowing you to experience Chichibu’s everyday scenery.
Access
- Approximately 5 minutes walk from Chichibu Station
- Approximately 15 minutes walk from Seibu-Chichibu Station
7. Yao Department Store
Yao Department Store, a long-established department store in Chichibu, serves as the model for a commercial facility appearing in the work. It’s characterized by a building retaining Showa-era atmosphere and the feeling of a shop rooted in the local community.
It continues to operate today and is a beloved place for locals, allowing you to experience Chichibu’s living culture.
Access
- Approximately 3 minutes walk from Chichibu Station
8. Takasago Hormon
This location serves as the model for the hormon restaurant where Shinnosuke works in the work. The actual Takasago Hormon is popular as a Chichibu gourmet hotspot, allowing you to enjoy Chichibu cuisine alongside pilgrimage.
You can immerse yourself in the work’s world while savoring fresh hormon and Chichibu local sake.
Business Information
- We recommend checking business hours and closed days in advance
- Reservations are certain during busy times
Access
- Approximately 10 minutes walk from Seibu-Chichibu Station
9. Tunnel (Where Akane Was Trapped)
The tunnel, which becomes an important scene in the work where Akane is trapped, has a real model location within Chichibu City. Out of consideration for the daily lives of local residents, we refrain from providing specific location details, though it is marked on pilgrimage maps.
When visiting, please conduct yourself mindfully, respecting private property and not obstructing passage.
10. Chichibu Shrine Vicinity
Chichibu Shrine, located in the center of Chichibu City, is a historic shrine, and the surrounding townscape appears in the work. The atmosphere of the approach and shopping streets around the shrine allow you to experience Chichibu’s tradition and culture.
We also recommend making a prayer visit while taking a pilgrimage break to pray for travel safety.
Access
- Approximately 3 minutes walk from Chichibu Station
- Approximately 15 minutes walk from Seibu-Chichibu Station
Proposal for an Efficient Sacred Site Pilgrimage Route
We introduce model routes for efficiently visiting major sites in a single day.
Day-Trip Course (8 hours estimated)
9:00 Arrival at Seibu-Chichibu Station
- Obtain pilgrimage map at tourist information office
- Photography around the station
9:30 Old Chichibu Bridge
- Walk there (approximately 15 minutes)
- Bridge photography and location confirmation (30 minutes)
10:30 Chichibu City Hall・Yao Department Store Vicinity
- Tour city center sacred sites (1 hour)
11:30 Ohanabatake Station
- Station photography (15 minutes)
12:00 Lunch (such as Takasago Hormon)
- Enjoy Chichibu gourmet (1 hour)
1:30 PM Urayama Dam Area
- Travel by bus (approximately 30 minutes)
- Photography around the dam (1 hour 30 minutes)
4:00 PM Chichibu Muse Park
- Travel by bus
- Photography of major sites such as music hall (1 hour 30 minutes)
5:30 PM Return to Seibu-Chichibu Station
- Enjoy hot spring at “Matsuri no Yu” (optional)
6:30 PM Return
Two-Day, One-Night Course
If you have extra time, staying overnight allows for a deeper pilgrimage experience. Photography at dusk and early morning becomes possible, resulting in photos closer to the work’s atmosphere.
Day 1
- Morning: Pilgrimage centered on city center sacred sites
- Afternoon: Urayama Dam area
- Evening: Sunset photography at old Chichibu Bridge
- Night: Stay at a Chichibu hot spring inn
Day 2
- Morning: Chichibu Muse Park
- Afternoon: Pilgrimage to unvisited spots
- Evening: Souvenir shopping and return
How to Obtain and Use Sacred Pilgrimage Maps
Official sacred pilgrimage maps for “Anohana,” “Kokuhaku,” and “Soraaoi” are distributed for free throughout Chichibu City.
Distribution Locations
- Seibu-Chichibu Station Tourist Information Office
- Chichibu Station Tourist Information Office
- Chichibu City Hall
- Major tourist facilities in Chichibu City
Map Features
The official map includes the following information:
- Locations of major sacred sites
- Comparison photos with scenes from the work
- Recommended shooting angles
- Access information for each spot
By utilizing the map, you can visit sacred sites efficiently and avoid missing any.
Tips for Photographing Like the Work
The essence of sacred pilgrimage is taking photos that recreate scenes from the work. Here are tips for taking more polished photographs.
Importance of Shooting Angle and Composition
To photograph with the same composition as in the work, the shooting position and angle are important. Refer to official maps and blogs from previous pilgrims to pinpoint accurate locations.
Save screenshots of scenes from the work on your smartphone or tablet, and compare them on-site while shooting to achieve more accurate composition.
Light Differences by Time of Day
By photographing at the same time of day as scenes in the work, the lighting and atmosphere become closer. Especially at locations like the old Chichibu Bridge and Urayama Dam, where natural light is important, photography mindful of time of day is recommended.
- Morning: Soft light with a fresh atmosphere
- Midday: Bright, clear photographs
- Evening: Dramatic sky color
Camera Setting Points
Anime background art is often depicted with wide angles, so using a wide-angle lens (or smartphone wide-angle mode) brings the atmosphere closer to the work.
Additionally, setting saturation slightly higher allows you to express the vibrant quality of anime.
Enjoying Chichibu Gourmet and Specialty Products
Enjoying cuisine unique to Chichibu between pilgrimage activities is part of the travel’s appeal.
Chichibu Hormon
Hormon, which also appears in the work, is a representative Chichibu gourmet. Fresh pork hormon seasoned with miso sauce—”miso-marinated hormon”—is an exquisite dish found only in Chichibu.
Besides Takasago Hormon, there are multiple hormon restaurants in the city, and comparing each restaurant’s flavor is part of the fun.
Chichibu Buckwheat Noodles
Blessed with high-quality water and climate, Chichibu is also known as a buckwheat noodle production area. The city has many noodle restaurants where you can enjoy authentic hand-made buckwheat noodles.
Waraji Cutlet Rice Bowl
The Chichibu specialty waraji cutlet rice bowl is an impressive bowl topped with two large cutlets. The waraji-sized cutlets are the characteristic feature, making for a filling dish.
Chichibu Local Sake
Chichibu has multiple breweries producing high-quality sake. Enjoying local Chichibu sake at a local izakaya as a finale to your pilgrimage is also recommended.
Manners and Precautions for Sacred Site Pilgrimages
There are manners to follow and precautions to observe when enjoying sacred pilgrimages.
Consideration for Local Residents
Many sacred sites are places where local residents go about their daily lives. Please note the following:
- Avoid loud conversations and noise
- Do not trespass on private property without permission
- Be mindful not to obstruct passage
- Always take trash with you
- Avoid visiting late at night or early morning
Photography Precautions
- Photograph in places that don’t obstruct traffic
- Obtain permission before photographing inside shops
- Be considerate to avoid other tourists or locals appearing in photos
- Confirm safety around when using tripods
Facility Usage Rules
- Check business hours and closed days in advance
- Always order when at restaurants (avoid using them only for photography)
- Follow proper manners when visiting shrines and temples
Touring Chichibu Trilogy Sacred Sites Together
By visiting sacred sites of “Anohana” and “Kokuhaku” along with Soraaoi pilgrimage, you can have a more enriched pilgrimage experience.
Common Sacred Sites
Spots like the old Chichibu Bridge, areas around Chichibu Station, and Chichibu Shrine appear in multiple works. Comparing how each work depicts them is an interesting experience.
Different World Views of the Three Works
While set in the same Chichibu, the faces of Chichibu depicted in each work differ. Understanding how each work’s theme connects with Chichibu’s scenery provides deeper insight when pilgriming.
Accommodation and Access Information
Recommended Accommodation Areas
Seibu-Chichibu Station Vicinity
- Convenient access to sacred sites
- Well-equipped hot spring facilities
- Abundant options from business hotels to inns
Chichibu Station Vicinity
- Close to city center sacred sites
- Many restaurants
- Relatively affordable accommodations
Hot Spring Facilities
Chichibu has well-equipped day-trip hot spring facilities:
- Matsuri no Yu (directly connected to Seibu-Chichibu Station)
- Manganohyu
- Chichibu Onsen Daimassu Inn
Perfect for relaxing after a day of pilgrimage.
Highlights by Season
Chichibu reveals different attractions each season, presenting different faces depending on when you visit.
Spring (March to May)
- Shibazakura no Oka (Yohama Park): Peak viewing mid-April to early May
- Many cherry blossom spots
- Pleasant weather ideal for pilgrimage
Summer (June to August)
- Beautiful fresh greenery of the mountains
- River play spots
- Chichibu Kawase Festival (July)
Autumn (September to November)
- Spectacular autumn foliage (late October to mid-November)
- Chichibu Night Festival preparation period (December 2-3)
- Clear air ideal for photography
Winter (December to February)
- Chichibu Night Festival (one of Japan’s three great float festivals)
- Clear winter air and starry sky
- Hot springs especially pleasant this season
Souvenirs and Merchandise Information
Official Merchandise
Official merchandise from the Chichibu trilogy is sold at Seibu-Chichibu Station and some shops in Chichibu:
- Clear files
- Postcards
- Keychains
- T-shirts
Chichibu Local Products
- Pork miso-marinated
- Chichibu specialty sweets (Chichibu mochi, Chichibu kohineri, etc.)
- Chichibu local sake
- Maple syrup (Chichibu-produced)
Summary: How to Maximize Enjoyment of Soraaoi Sacred Pilgrimage
Chichibu City, Saitama Prefecture, a sacred site of “The Sky Where You Know the Blue,” is a wonderful place to experience the work’s world view. Major pilgrimage spots like the old Chichibu Bridge, Seibu-Chichibu Station, Urayama Dam, and Chichibu Muse Park are concentrated in a relatively compact area, allowing efficient touring.
Points for successful pilgrimage:
- Thorough Preparation: Obtain official maps, confirm transportation, save work scene screenshots
- Schedule with Leeway: Allow extra time to enjoy photography leisurely
- Follow Etiquette: Exercise consideration for local residents and conduct yourself with restraint
- Fully Enjoy Chichibu’s Appeal: Experience not just pilgrimage but also cuisine, hot springs, and sightseeing
- Choose Your Season: Select a season matching your preference and enjoy Chichibu’s natural beauty
Visiting the sacred sites of Soraaoi, the final chapter of the Chichibu trilogy, deepens understanding of the work and brings new discoveries. Please enjoy this special journey experiencing and reliving the time and spaces where Aoi, Akane, and Shinnosuke spent their days in the real place of Chichibu City, Saitama Prefecture.
The rich nature of Chichibu and its warm people, along with the feelings embedded in the work, will surely become treasured memories of your sacred pilgrimage.
