【A Place Further Than the Universe】Okinawa Prefecture Kunigami District Motobu Town
What is “A Place Further Than the Universe”
“A Place Further Than the Universe” is a completely original animation produced by P.A.WORKS that aired all 24 episodes from July to December 2021. Set against the backdrop of Okinawa’s beautiful sea and an aquarium, it is a coming-of-age ensemble drama depicting the growth of two girls: Miyazawa Kazuka, a former idol who fled from Tokyo, and Kaishio Kukuru, who strives to protect an aquarium in Okinawa.
The greatest appeal of this work is its beautiful depiction of landscapes centered around the real Nanjo City in Okinawa Prefecture. Through transparent background artwork and meticulous expressions of marine life, viewers are drawn into a world of Okinawa’s nature and culture. The locations where the anime is set can actually be visited, and many fans visit these pilgrimage sites.
Plot Summary
Miyazawa Kazuka, who was active as an idol in Tokyo, flees to Okinawa following a sudden setback. There she meets Kaishio Kukuru, who works at a small aquarium called “Gama Gama Aquarium” facing closure. Kukuru, with her passion for the aquarium, and Kazuka, seeking a place to belong, gradually deepen their bond.
The first half of the story depicts the two girls’ efforts to save Gama Gama Aquarium. The second half carefully portrays their growth as they face their respective dreams and reality, with the new large aquarium “Aquarium Tincala” as the stage.
【Pilgrimage Site Guide】Where are the locations in Nanjo City, Okinawa Prefecture that appear in “A Place Further Than the Universe”?
Nanjo City in Okinawa Prefecture is the primary setting for this work. It was created in 2006 through the merger of four towns and villages, making it a relatively new city located in the southern part of Okinawa’s main island. It has beautiful coastlines, abundant nature, and numerous historically significant sacred sites dating back to the Ryukyu Kingdom era.
The location that served as the model for the fictional “Gama Gama Aquarium” featured in the anime has not been specifically identified, but many landscapes along the coasts of Nanjo City and local tourist spots scattered throughout the region appear in the work. While there is no large-scale aquarium in actual Nanjo City, its simple and beautiful seaside scenery shapes the work’s worldview.
“A Place Further Than the Universe” Pilgrimage Site 1: Azama Sunsan Beach
Azama Sunsan Beach is an important pilgrimage site that appears most frequently in the work. It is the place where Kukuru and Kazuka first meet in Episode 1 and is a filming location where many symbolic scenes from the story were shot.
Beach Characteristics and Highlights
The actual Azama Sunsan Beach is an artificial beach located in Chinen, Azama, Nanjo City. It is characterized by white sandy shores and highly transparent emerald green waters, making it a beloved swimming area for local residents. The beach features shelters and swings that actually appeared in the anime, allowing visitors to photograph from the same angles.
In the work, it is portrayed as a memorable place where Kukuru has been coming since childhood and becomes the setting for important conversation scenes between her and Kazuka. Particularly, the view from the shelter remains as an impressive cut in many fans’ memories.
Access
From Naha Airport, it is approximately 40 minutes by car. From Naha Bus Terminal, take route buses (No. 38 or 50 Shikiya Line) and get off at “Azama Sunsan Beach Entrance,” then walk approximately 10 minutes. The parking lot is paid: 500 yen during summer season (April-October) and free during winter.
“A Place Further Than the Universe” Pilgrimage Site 2: Nirai Kanai Bridge (National Route 331)
Nirai Kanai Bridge is a bridge approximately 1.2 km long on National Route 331 in Nanjo City, Okinawa Prefecture, appearing multiple times in the anime’s opening sequence and main story as a symbolic location.
Bridge’s Charm and Photography Points
This elevated bridge connects two tunnels called Nirai Bridge and Kanai Bridge, offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean from a height of approximately 80 meters above sea level. In the work, it serves as the setting for memorable scenes of Kukuru commuting by motorcycle and Kazuka being moved by Okinawa’s beauty.
An observation deck beneath the bridge allows views of the entire bridge and sea. To photograph the same angles as in the anime, photography from this observation deck is recommended. On clear days, the contrast between the blue sea and sky is spectacular, allowing visitors to truly appreciate the anime’s beautiful background art.
Precautions When Visiting
Parking is prohibited on the bridge itself; always use the parking lot at the observation deck below. Access to the observation deck is done by crossing the bridge and then making a U-turn to return. The road has many curves, so careful driving is necessary.
“A Place Further Than the Universe” Pilgrimage Site 3: Byakumei Beach near Yaharazukasa
Byakumei Beach is a natural beach in Byakumei, Tamaki, Nanjo City, and was the setting for important scenes in the work. Particularly, the rocky area near Yaharazukasa was the site of impressive scenes.
Beach Characteristics
Byakumei Beach is an unspoiled beach not commercialized as a tourist destination and is a quiet coastal area visited by local residents. During low tide, it is possible to walk far offshore and observe marine life in tide pools. This natural atmosphere matches the worldview of Gama Gama Aquarium.
Yaharazukasa is a sacred site mentioned in Ryukyu creation mythology, where Amamikyo, the creator deity of Ryukyu, is said to have descended. In the work as well, this sacred atmosphere is portrayed as an important element of the story.
Access and Precautions
It is approximately 15 minutes on foot from Byakumei Bus Terminal. Parking is limited, so use of public transportation is recommended. The path down to the beach has sections that are not well-maintained, so visiting in easy-to-walk shoes is essential. Also, remember this is a sacred site and visit with respect.
“A Place Further Than the Universe” Pilgrimage Site 4: Byakumei Bus Terminal
Byakumei Bus Terminal appears in the work as the place where Kazuka first arrives in Nanjo City. Though a small bus stop, it is an important pilgrimage site symbolizing the beginning of the story.
The Bus Terminal
The actual Byakumei Bus Terminal is a small bus stop with only a simple waiting area. However, the bench and surrounding scenery that appeared in the anime actually exist, allowing visitors to recall the scene of Kazuka sitting with an anxious expression.
The area around the bus terminal is residential, with everyday Okinawan scenery spread out. This very ordinariness symbolizes the beginning of a new world for Kazuka, who fled from Tokyo.
Bus Route Information
From Naha Bus Terminal, take routes No. 38 or 50 Shikiya Line for approximately 1 hour. Service is limited at 1-2 buses per hour, so it is recommended to confirm the timetable in advance. Planning your schedule around bus times when using the terminal as your pilgrimage site base is efficient.
Chinen Cape Park
Chinen Cape Park is a scenic spot with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, appearing in multiple scenes in the work. Located at the eastern tip of Nanjo City, this is an observation park offering views of Kudaka Island.
Park Highlights
The park features an observation deck from which the horizon and blue sea in the view perfectly match the anime’s beautiful background art. In the work, it serves as the setting for scenes where characters discuss their futures and work through emotional issues.
The park is free and open 24 hours, with extraordinary beauty especially at sunrise and sunset. It has become popular not only with anime fans but also with local residents and tourists.
Nearby Facilities
Near the park is Seifa Utaki (Sacred Site of Utaki), registered as a World Heritage Site as the highest sacred place of the Ryukyu Kingdom. This location also appears as a significant filming location in the work. If time permits, it is recommended to visit together.
Kute Kaki Beach
Kute Kaki Beach is a quiet beach in Okutake, Tamaki, Nanjo City, appearing in the work as the setting for ordinary everyday scenes. With few tourists, it is a place where you can feel the local atmosphere.
Beach Characteristics
Though smaller than Azama Sunsan Beach, it is a beautiful beach that maintains its natural state. In the work, it appears in scenes where characters observe marine life or visit during work breaks.
During low tide, tidepooling is possible on rocks, where you can actually observe small fish and crabs. This experience offers a valuable opportunity to experience the daily lives of characters who work at the aquarium.
Pilgrimage Sites in Naha City
The latter half of the story features many scenes set in Naha City. While the model for the new “Aquarium Tincala” is Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium (in Motobu Town), everyday landscapes within Naha City are also important settings.
Kokusai Street
Kokusai Street is a 1.6 km-long street in central Naha City, Okinawa Prefecture, known as the “Miracle 1 Mile” tourist attraction. It appears in scenes where Kazuka and Kukuru shop and walk through the city.
The actual Kokusai Street is lined with souvenir shops and restaurants, a place where you can feel Okinawan culture. While specific shops featured in the anime have not been identified, the street’s atmosphere is faithfully reproduced.
Naha Bus Terminal
Naha Bus Terminal is a major transit hub for Okinawa’s main island route buses. In the work, it appears as an important transportation hub where characters travel between Nanjo City and Naha City.
The waiting areas and bus platforms inside the terminal are faithfully reproduced in the anime, making it worth visiting as either the starting or ending point of your pilgrimage. It is also practical since route buses to Nanjo City depart from here.
Naha Airport
Naha Airport appears in Episode 1 as the place where Kazuka arrives from Tokyo. The airport’s exterior and arrival lobby are depicted, with the location symbolizing Kazuka’s mixed emotions of anxiety and anticipation.
Motobu Town and Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium Area
The model for “Aquarium Tincala,” which becomes the setting for the latter half of the story, is Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium in Motobu Town in the northern part of Okinawa’s main island. This is one of Japan’s foremost aquariums, famous for its “Kuroshio Sea,” one of the world’s largest tanks. Many of the aquarium scenes in the work were drawn with reference to this facility.
Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium
Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium is a large-scale aquarium within the Okinawa Kaiyohaku Park, famous for its large tank where whale sharks and manta rays swim. In the work, it is depicted as the aquarium where Kukuru and Kazuka begin working at their new workplace.
While the actual Churaumi Aquarium differs from the layout and displays of the facility featured in the anime, the aquarium’s atmosphere and love for marine life align with the work’s worldview. Visiting is worthwhile for deepening understanding of the aquarium keeper profession.
Bise Fukugi Tree-Lined Avenue
Near Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium is Bise Fukugi Tree-Lined Avenue, which serves as the setting for scenes where characters take walks in the work. This is a beautiful community lined with fukugi trees centuries old, where you can feel Okinawa’s traditional scenery.
Kahoo Banta (Nuchumasu Sightseeing Salt Manufacturing Factory)
Kahoo Banta is a scenic spot in Uruma City meaning “Cape of Happiness.” It appears in later episodes of the work, symbolizing an emotional turning point for the characters.
The view overlooking the Pacific Ocean from approximately 120-meter cliffs is spectacular, with beautiful contrast between emerald green sea and white sandy beaches. Located within the grounds of Nuchumasu Sightseeing Salt Manufacturing Factory, where salt production can be viewed.
Seifa Utaki (Sacred Site of Utaki)
Seifa Utaki is the highest sacred place of the Ryukyu Kingdom era and is registered as a World Heritage Site. In the work, it holds important significance as a location symbolizing Okinawa’s spirituality and history.
Significance as a Sacred Site
This is where national religious ceremonies of the Ryukyu Kingdom were conducted, particularly the investiture ceremony of “Kikoe Ogimi,” the highest-ranking female priestess. In the work, it appears in scenes where Kukuru contemplates her roots and Okinawan culture, embodying the work’s theme of “connection between places and people.”
Visiting Etiquette
It remains a place revered by local residents as a sacred site. Visitors are expected to avoid overly exposed clothing and observe quietly during visits. Admission is 300 yen for adults, and guided tours are available.
Traditional Culture of Nanjo City, Okinawa Prefecture
Nanjo City possesses a rich traditional culture continuing from the Ryukyu Kingdom era. Understanding this region’s cultural background is important for deeper appreciation of the work.
Ryukyu Glass
Glass workshops are scattered throughout the Nanjo City area. Ryukyu glass, which began after World War II by repurposing discarded bottles from military bases, has become a traditional craft representative of Okinawa. The work makes references to local traditional crafts, expressing Okinawa’s cultural richness.
Eisa
Eisa, a traditional Okinawan performance art, is showcased throughout the region during the lunar Obon festival. Nanjo City also has unique eisa for each community, appearing as festival scenes in the work. The powerful drum sounds and dancing convey the vitality of Okinawan people.
Ryukyuan Cuisine
Okinawa Prefecture, including Nanjo City, has developed its own food culture. Goya champuru, soki soba, and sata andagi appear in scenes where characters eat in the work. It is also recommended to enjoy local flavors at local restaurants during your pilgrimage.
Model Courses for Pilgrimage Sites
Here are model courses for efficiently visiting pilgrimage sites. Since public transportation is limited in Nanjo City, rental car usage is most efficient.
One-Day Course (With Rental Car)
Morning
- 9:00 Depart Naha Airport
- 9:40 Nirai Kanai Bridge Observation Deck (30 minutes)
- 10:30 Azama Sunsan Beach (60 minutes)
- 12:00 Lunch in Nanjo City
Afternoon
- 13:00 Chinen Cape Park (30 minutes)
- 13:45 Seifa Utaki (60 minutes)
- 15:00 Byakumei Beach / Byakumei Bus Terminal (45 minutes)
- 16:00 Kute Kaki Beach (30 minutes)
- 17:00 Move to Naha City, explore Kokusai Street
Two-Day Course (Including Motobu Town)
Day 1 follows the above Nanjo City course; Day 2 visits Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium in Motobu Town and Bise Fukugi Tree-Lined Avenue. Since Motobu Town is approximately 2 hours from Naha by car, planning with adequate time is necessary.
Practical Information for Pilgrimage Sites
Transportation Methods
Rental Car: Offers the most freedom and efficient site touring. Many rental car companies are located around Naha Airport.
Route Buses: Route No. 38 and 50 Shikiya Line connect major pilgrimage sites in Nanjo City, but confirmation of timetables is essential due to limited service.
Taxi: Approximately 5,000-7,000 yen one way from Naha City to Nanjo City. Can be an option for multi-person trips.
Accommodation
While resort hotels and guesthouses exist in Nanjo City, it is common to stay in Naha City and make day trips. Naha City has abundant restaurants and tourist facilities.
Best Season
While Okinawa is warm year-round, the best season for pilgrimage sites is April-June and October-November. July-September bring severe heat and typhoon risks. Winter (December-March) is relatively cool with fewer tourists, making it an alternative.
Items to Bring
- Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses (sun protection)
- Easy-to-walk shoes (for walking on beaches and rocky areas)
- Camera, smartphone (to record pilgrimage sites)
- Work image data (for comparative photography)
- Drinking water (vending machines are sparse in some areas)
Reviews from Pilgrimage Site Visitors
Fans who have done pilgrimage site tours report sensations like “feeling as though entering the anime’s world” and “moved by Okinawa’s natural beauty.”
Particularly at Azama Sunsan Beach, visitors comment: “We could completely recreate Episode 1 scenes,” and “Sitting in the shelter gazing at the sea makes it feel like you can hear Kukuru and Kazuka’s conversation.”
Regarding Nirai Kanai Bridge, many note “the actual scenery was even more beautiful than the anime” and “the observation deck view is a must-see,” showing that the real landscape’s magnificence further enhances the anime’s appeal.
However, practical concerns are also raised, such as “bus service is sparse making travel difficult” and “summer heat exceeds expectations,” emphasizing the importance of advance planning.
About the Gama Gama Aquarium Memorial Plaque
In 2022, a “Gama Gama Aquarium Memorial Plaque” was installed in Nanjo City. Set up as part of collaboration between the work and Nanjo City, it has become a new pilgrimage site attracting fan attention.
The plaque features artwork and messages from the work, becoming popular as a commemorative photography spot for pilgrimage site tours. The exact location can be confirmed through Nanjo City tourism information.
Regarding Marine Life Featured in the Work
“A Place Further Than the Universe” features diverse marine life that become important elements of the story. Penguins, dolphins, sea turtles, tropical fish and others—creatures found in actual Okinawan seas and aquariums—are carefully depicted.
Visiting Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium allows you to see many marine creatures featured in the work, deepening understanding of the characters’ work. Particularly, the large tank where whale sharks swim offers a place to experience the work’s worldview.
Conclusion
A pilgrimage site tour of “A Place Further Than the Universe” is a wonderful journey allowing experience of Okinawa’s beautiful nature and culture. Centered on Nanjo City, visiting the numerous actual locations featured in the anime—Azama Sunsan Beach, Nirai Kanai Bridge, Byakumei Beach, Chinen Cape Park and others—will deepen your understanding and affection for the work.
When planning a pilgrimage tour, rental car usage is recommended, though major sites are accessible by route bus. Confirming timetables in advance and planning with adequate time is key to success.
Okinawa’s beautiful sea, abundant nature, and warm people you encounter are precisely the world depicted in the anime. Through the work, rediscover Okinawa’s charm, and by visiting in person, you can experience the emotion Kukuru and Kazuka felt.
Pilgrimage site touring is not mere tourism but a special experience connecting work, region, and fans together. Enjoy “A Place Further Than the Universe” fully while touching Nanjo City’s beautiful scenery and culture.
