Movie Edition Non Non Biyori Vacation Okinawa Prefecture Holy Ground Pilgrimage Complete Guide
“Movie Edition Non Non Biyori Vacation” is a theatrical film of the hugely popular anime series released on August 25, 2018. The story follows Renge and four other students from a rural branch school on a trip to Okinawa, with the beautiful nature and culture of Okinawa carefully depicted. This article comprehensively introduces filming locations on Taketomi Island and Ishigaki Island for those planning an actual holy ground pilgrimage.
What is Movie Edition Non Non Biyori Vacation?
“Non Non Biyori” is an anime series based on a manga work by Atto, a slice-of-life series set at a rural branch school experiencing depopulation. In the theatrical edition, Renge, Hotaru, Natsumi, Komari, and a candy shop owner enjoy a 3-night, 4-day Okinawa trip with vacation vouchers won in a lottery raffle.
The greatest feature of this work is its faithful reproduction of real Okinawa tourist destinations. In particular, Taketomi Island becomes an important setting in the film, with many scenes featuring the island’s traditional streetscape and beautiful beaches. Because the production staff conducted actual on-location research, the depiction is meticulous down to the smallest details, making it a worthwhile work for holy ground pilgrimage.
Basic Information on Okinawa Holy Ground Pilgrimage
Main Holy Ground Locations
The holy grounds of Movie Edition Non Non Biyori Vacation are concentrated in the following two main areas:
Taketomi Island (Taketomi Town, Yaeyama District, Okinawa Prefecture)
- The location where the most scenes were filmed
- Features traditional red-tiled roofed settlements and beautiful beaches
- Approximately 10 minutes by speedboat from Ishigaki Island
Ishigaki Island (Ishigaki City, Okinawa Prefecture)
- New Ishigaki Airport (Nannushi Island Ishigaki Airport) serves as the gateway
- Transfer hub for Taketomi Island
- Appears in some scenes
Recommended Duration for Holy Ground Pilgrimage
To efficiently visit major spots, a minimum of 2 nights and 3 days is recommended. For a more leisurely pilgrimage, 3 nights and 4 days is ideal. Planning a 3-night, 4-day itinerary matching the film’s travel schedule allows you to fully immerse yourself in the work’s world.
Best Season
Considering Okinawa’s climate, April to June or September to November are ideal for holy ground pilgrimage. Summer (July-August) coincides with typhoon season, creating risks of ship cancellations. However, if you wish to experience the summer vacation atmosphere from the film, choosing summer is also an option.
Detailed Major Holy Ground Spots on Taketomi Island
Kondoi Beach
This is the setting for the scene where Renge and friends first play in the sea in their swimsuits. Located on the western part of Taketomi Island, this is a shallow beach characterized by highly transparent water and white sand.
Highlights
- You can recreate the scene where Renge enters the sea
- Safe swimming due to shallow water and calm waves
- Known as a spectacular sunset viewing spot
Access
- Approximately 15 minutes by bicycle from Taketomi Port
- Usually visited after rentable bicycle or water buffalo cart tours
Photography Tips
- Lighting from morning through early afternoon closely matches scenes in the film
- The angle overlooking the beach from the entrance is particularly impressive
Nishi Pier (Nishi Sanbashi)
This is the most important spot symbolizing the theatrical edition, depicted in the key visual. This pier once served as the departure and arrival point for regular ferry service between Taketomi Island and Iriomote Island, and is now developed as a tourist attraction.
Highlights
- Recreation of the scene where the five characters sit in a row is possible
- Known as a sunset viewing spot and particularly beautiful at sunset
- Designated as a nationally registered tangible cultural property
Photography Tips
- The same angle as the key visual is photographed from the pier’s mainland side
- After 4 PM onward is optimal for sunset photography
- The view of the sea from the pier’s tip is also a must-see
Precautions
- Diving from the pier is prohibited
- Early arrival recommended as the pier gets crowded at sunset
Taketomi Island Settlement (Traditional Building Preservation District)
This is the traditional red-tiled roofed settlement where characters stay in an inn and explore the island, featuring stone-walled pathways and bougainvillea flowers.
Main Spots
Around Nagomi Tower
- A viewpoint overlooking the settlement (currently may not be accessible due to deterioration)
- Surrounding alleys appear in many scenes
Settlement Alleys
- Scenic pathways lined with red-tiled roofs and stone walls
- Water buffalo carts can be seen passing through
- Allows you to re-experience the settlement exploration scenes from the film
Photography Points
- Soft morning light beautifully illuminates the stone walls and red tiles
- Compositions utilizing the depth of alleys are recommended
- Be mindful of respectful photography in residents’ living space
Kaiji Beach (Star Sand Beach)
This beach is famous for finding star-shaped sand (shells of foraminifera). This is the setting where Renge and friends search for star sand in the film.
Activities
- Star sand searching (limited collection only)
- Beautiful coastline walking
- Recreation photography of film scenes
Access
- Approximately 5 minutes by bicycle from Kondoi Beach
- Approximately 20 minutes by bicycle from Taketomi Port
Points
- Star sand searching is enjoyable for children and adults alike
- Swimming is not recommended due to strong tidal currents
- Collect only naturally existing sand in small quantities
Guesthouse (Accommodations Based on the Film)
The guesthouse where the characters stay is based on a real accommodation facility on Taketomi Island. While the specific facility name isn’t officially disclosed due to respect for the business, the appearance of traditional red-tiled roofed inns is carefully depicted in the film.
Enjoyment for Holy Ground Pilgrimage
- Experience the film’s atmosphere by actually staying at a guesthouse on Taketomi Island
- Observe traditional red-tiled roofed architecture
- Enjoy the island’s quiet nights and starry sky
Akayama Observation Platform
A small hill in the center of Taketomi Island with an observation spot overlooking the entire island. This appears in scenes capturing the island’s full view.
Features
- 360-degree panoramic view
- Overlooks the settlement’s red-tiled roofs
- A hidden gem with relatively few tourists
Holy Ground Spots on Ishigaki Island
New Ishigaki Airport (Nannushi Island Ishigaki Airport)
This is the place where Renge and friends first land, appearing in the opening scene. A relatively new airport opened in 2013, featuring an open design characteristic of tropical locations.
Highlights
- The arrival lobby atmosphere is recreated in the film
- The airport exterior also appears in some scenes
- Well-stocked with Okinawan decorations and souvenir shops
Holy Ground Pilgrimage Points
- Photograph while recalling film scenes upon arrival
- Airport staff can provide access information to Taketomi Island
Ishigaki Port Remote Island Terminal
The port where boats to Taketomi Island depart and arrive. Also appearing in travel scenes in the film, this is an essential location that will definitely be used in actual holy ground pilgrimage.
Facility Information
- Multiple shipping companies operate services to Taketomi Island
- Adequate facilities including waiting areas, shops, and coin lockers
- Tourist information for various islands available
Usage Points
- Over 20 daily departures to Taketomi Island (during peak season)
- Round-trip tickets are more economical
- Travel time is approximately 10 minutes
Practical Model Courses for Holy Ground Pilgrimage
Day 1: Arriving at Ishigaki Island and Moving to Taketomi
Morning
- Arrive at New Ishigaki Airport (photograph scenes from film)
- Travel by bus to Ishigaki Port Remote Island Terminal (approximately 30 minutes)
- Board boat to Taketomi Island (approximately 10 minutes)
Afternoon
- Arrive at Taketomi Port and rent a bicycle
- Check into guesthouse
- Swim and photograph at Kondoi Beach
- Search for star sand at Kaiji Beach
Evening
- Sunset photography at Nishi Pier (most important spot)
- Dinner at guesthouse
Day 2: Exploring Taketomi Island Settlement
Morning
- Explore settlement by bicycle or on foot
- Recreation photography of scenes from film on red-tiled roofed alleys
- Explore around Nagomi Tower
- View from Akayama Observation Platform
Afternoon
- Water buffalo cart tour (optional)
- Relax at settlement cafe
- Visit remaining holy ground spots
Evening
- Another sunset at Nishi Pier (from different angles)
- Night settlement exploration (stargazing)
Day 3: Reserve Day or Ishigaki Island Sightseeing
Morning
- Visit remaining Taketomi Island spots or return to Ishigaki Island for city sightseeing
Afternoon
- Shop for souvenirs around Ishigaki Port
- Travel to airport for departure
Access Methods and Transportation for Holy Ground Pilgrimage
Access from Okinawa Main Island
Airplane
- Approximately 1 hour from Naha Airport to New Ishigaki Airport
- Operated by JAL, ANA, Solaseed Air, Peach, and others
- One-way fares from around 10,000 yen with early booking
Direct Flights
- Approximately 3 hours from Tokyo (Haneda/Narita) to New Ishigaki Airport
- Approximately 2 hours 40 minutes from Osaka (Kansai/Itami)
- Direct flights are more efficient, though more expensive
Access from Ishigaki Island to Taketomi Island
Shipping Companies
- Yaeyama Kanko Ferry
- An’ei Kanko
- Ishigaki Island Dream Kanko
Fares
- Round trip: 1,340 yen for adults, 690 yen for children (as of 2024)
- Day trip plans (round-trip boat + bicycle rental) also available
Operating Times
- First departure: around 7:30 AM
- Last departure: around 5:30 PM (varies by season)
- Travel time: approximately 10 minutes
Transportation Within Taketomi Island
Bicycle Rental
- Most popular and flexible transportation method
- Rates: 1,000 yen for 2 hours, approximately 1,500 yen for full day
- Rental staff available at port upon arrival
- Electric bicycles also available (higher rates)
Walking
- Island’s circumference is approximately 9 km, walkable
- Settlement exploration on foot is recommended
- Best for those who want to photograph while walking slowly
Water Buffalo Cart
- Island tours approximately 30 minutes
- Cost: approximately 1,500 yen for adults
- Recommended for first-timers with tour guide
- Traditional tourism style also appearing in film
Rental Cars/Motorcycles
- General tourist car rentals not recommended on Taketomi Island
- Island roads are narrow, bicycles and walking are standard
Ways to Enjoy Holy Ground Pilgrimage Economically
Airplane Ticket Savings
Early Booking Discounts
- Utilize advance discounts for 75 days, 55 days, 28 days prior
- LCC use offers one-way fares under 10,000 yen
Package Tours
- Airplane ticket + hotel sets often cheaper than individual arrangements
- Compare options on Rakuten Travel, Jalan, JTB, and others
Mile/Point Utilization
- Obtain special award airline tickets with JAL or ANA miles
- Pay with Rakuten Points, T-Points, and other rewards
Accommodation Cost Savings
Guesthouse Stays
- Taketomi Island guesthouses range 8,000-12,000 yen per night with two meals
- Experience film atmosphere while economical
- Secure desired accommodations through early booking
Ishigaki Island Accommodations
- More accommodation options than Taketomi Island
- Business hotels from around 5,000 yen per night
- Option to make day trips to Taketomi Island
Local Savings Tips
Bicycle Rental
- Multi-day rentals have discounts at some shops
- Electric bicycles convenient but standard bicycles sufficient
Meals
- Limited restaurants on Taketomi Island at higher prices
- Option to purchase ingredients on Ishigaki Island (check with guesthouse)
- Alternatively have lunch on Ishigaki Island
Boat Tickets
- Round-trip tickets cheaper than individual one-way purchases
- Some shipping companies offer internet booking discounts
Holy Ground Pilgrimage Etiquette and Precautions
Photography Etiquette
Consideration for Residents
- Approximately 350 people actually live on Taketomi Island
- Strictly prohibit unauthorized entry into private property
- Be mindful of resident privacy regarding photography
Traditional Building Preservation District Rules
- Don’t climb stone walls or damage plants
- Always take trash with you
- Avoid loud conversations and noise
Photography Equipment
- Use tripods only in places not blocking foot traffic
- Drone use requires prior permission
Environmental Consideration
Beach Etiquette
- Don’t collect coral or shells in large quantities
- Star sand collection limited to small amounts (commercial collection is illegal)
- Choose reef-safe sunscreen
Ecosystem Protection
- Prohibit feeding wild animals
- Plant collection strictly forbidden
- Avoid venturing off designated paths
Safety Precautions
Climate and Clothing
- Okinawa’s sun is extremely strong (sun protection essential)
- Watch for heat stroke in summer (frequent water breaks)
- Carry rain gear for sudden showers
Ocean Safety
- Kaiji Beach has strong currents, swimming not recommended
- Even Kondoi Beach requires caution against being swept offshore
- Watch for dangerous creatures like box jellyfish (especially summer)
Health Management
- Bicycle travel consumes more energy than expected
- Take regular breaks and drink water frequently
- Many locations have little shade, use hats and parasols
Holy Ground Pilgrimage Essentials Checklist
Must-Have Items
- Airplane/boat tickets (electronic tickets acceptable)
- ID
- Cash (many island stores don’t accept cashless payment)
- Smartphone (maps, photography)
- Portable battery charger
- Sunscreen (SPF50+ recommended)
- Hat/sunglasses
- Drinking water
Convenient Items
- Blu-ray/art books (for scene comparison)
- Camera (beyond smartphone for serious photography)
- Backup batteries/SD cards
- Parasol/rain gear
- Insect repellent spray
- Beach sandals
- Swimsuit/towel (if swimming)
- Plastic bags (for wet items and star sand)
- First aid supplies (motion sickness medicine, antacids, etc.)
Photography Equipment
- SLR/mirrorless camera
- Wide-angle lens (optimal for landscape photography)
- Tripod (sunset and starry night photography)
- ND filter (daytime sea photography)
- Waterproof case (beach photography)
Information for Further Enjoying Holy Ground Pilgrimage
Preparing and Reviewing the Work
Viewing Methods
- Blu-ray/DVD (special features may include holy ground information)
- Video streaming services (periodic distribution)
- Theater screening events (special exhibitions during anniversaries)
Related Publications
- Original manga (travel episodes)
- Drama CD (film prequel chapters included)
- Official guidebooks and setting materials
Information Gathering via SNS
Hashtags
- #のんのんびより聖地巡礼
- #のんのんびよりばけーしょん
- #竹富島
- #アニメツーリズム
Precautions
- Gather latest information from other pilgrim posts
- Be location-tag cautious in own posts (guesthouses and similar locations)
- Practice copyright-conscious posting
Community Connections
Taketomi Island Efforts
- Some shops may have work-related merchandise and displays
- Respect island culture and history during visits
- Contribute to island economy through local product purchases
Anime Tourism Association
- “Movie Edition Non Non Biyori Vacation” is officially certified as a holy ground
- Check official site for latest holy ground information
Understanding Taketomi Island’s Culture and History
Traditional Architectural Styles
The red-tiled roofed houses on Taketomi Island preserve traditional Okinawan architectural styles. To withstand typhoon winds, stones are placed on roofs, and homes are surrounded by stone walls. This unique landscape is carefully depicted in the film, and holy ground pilgrimage offers opportunity to learn about Okinawan architectural culture.
Water Buffalo Cart History
Taketomi Island’s water buffalo cart tourism utilizes water buffalo formerly used for farm work and transport as a tourism resource. Accompanying the water buffalo’s slow pace with sanshin music and island guidance creates an opportunity to learn island history and culture, as the experience also appears in the film.
Star Sand Legend
Kaiji Beach’s star sand carries Okinawan legend. While star sand is actually foraminifera shells, legend describes them as “bits of stars fallen from the Milky Way,” and the scene where Renge and friends search for star sand reflects this cultural background.
Visiting Other Okinawa Anime Holy Grounds
Okinawa Prefecture hosts many anime works beyond “Non Non Biyori.” With extra time, visiting multiple holy grounds is recommended.
Ishigaki Island Area
- Ishigaki Island city also has other anime setting locations
- Neighboring islands like Iriomote and Kohama are also popular tourist spots
Naha/Okinawa Main Island
- Multiple anime works use locations here
- Abundant tourist attractions including Shuri Castle and Kokusai Street
Seasonal Highlights
Spring (March-May)
- Temperature: approximately 20-28 degrees Celsius, comfortable
- Beach opening: available from mid-March
- Flowers: bougainvillea bloom beautifully
- Advantage: relatively fewer tourists, leisurely pilgrimage possible
Summer (June-August)
- Temperature: 28-33 degrees, humid
- Experience the same summer vacation atmosphere from the film
- Highest sea transparency
- Caution: typhoon season with ship cancellation risks
Autumn (September-November)
- Temperature: 24-30 degrees, gradually more comfortable
- September still has typhoon risk, but stable from October onward
- Sunsets beautiful (optimal for Nishi Pier photography)
Winter (December-February)
- Temperature: 15-20 degrees, warmer than main island
- Ocean swimming is cold (possible with wetsuits)
- Fewest tourists, quiet pilgrimage possible
- Relatively cheaper airplane tickets and accommodations
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
Q: What’s the optimal stay duration for holy ground pilgrimage?
A: 2 nights and 3 days for efficiently visiting major spots, 3 nights and 4 days for leisurely pilgrimage. Planning a 3-night, 4-day itinerary matching the film allows fuller immersion.
Q: Should I stay on Taketomi Island or day-trip from Ishigaki Island?
A: Staying on Taketomi Island is strongly recommended for fully experiencing the work’s atmosphere. The quiet settlement from evening to night and starry sky cannot be experienced on day trips. Budget-conscious visitors can day-trip and visit major spots.
Q: Which is better for bicycle rental—electric or standard?
A: Taketomi Island is relatively flat, but electric bicycles are recommended for those lacking confidence in summer heat or fitness. Standard bicycles suffice but electric is easier for visiting multiple beaches.
Q: Can solo pilgrims enjoy holy ground pilgrimage?
A: Solo pilgrimage is fully enjoyable, even benefiting from self-paced photography. Taketomi Island is safe for solo travelers.
Q: Can pilgrimage be done on rainy days?
A: Light rain allows pilgrimage, but heavy rain makes bicycle travel difficult. Switch to settlement walking or indoor facilities like Taketomi Yugafu-kan on rainy days.
Q: Can I stay at the guesthouse appearing in the film?
A: The specific guesthouse model isn’t officially disclosed, but Taketomi Island has multiple traditional guesthouses recreating the film atmosphere. Mentioning “Non Non Biyori pilgrimage” during booking may result in understanding proprietors accommodating you specially.
Conclusion: Special Experiences from Holy Ground Pilgrimage
“Movie Edition Non Non Biyori Vacation” holy ground pilgrimage offers value beyond mere anime location visiting. Taketomi Island’s beautiful nature, traditional culture, and leisurely pace embody the work’s theme of “taking it easy.”
Actually visiting the island allows re-experiencing the emotion characters felt, deepening understanding and affection for the work. Nishi Pier sunsets, Kondoi Beach transparent waters, settlement alleys lined with red tiles—all become precious memories.
Through pilgrimage, discover Okinawa’s wonderful culture and nature, rediscovering regional appeal. Using information from this article, plan your own “vacation.” Surely the trip becomes special and memorable like the work itself.
Enjoy your wonderful holy ground pilgrimage with the greeting “Nyanpasu!”
