A Complete Sacred Site Pilgrimage Guide to “Kokuhaku” in Chichibu City and Yokoze Town, Saitama Prefecture
What Kind of Work Is “Kokuhaku”? Deep Connections with Chichibu
“Kokuhaku” (officially “Kokoro ga Sakebitagatterunda,” commonly known as “Kokusake”) is an animated film released on September 19, 2015. The production team from “Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day” reunited, becoming a topic of discussion as a coming-of-age ensemble drama directed by Nagaii Tatsuyuki, with a screenplay by Okada Marui and character design by Tanaka Masataka—a golden trio.
Chichibu City and Yokoze Town as the Story’s Stage
The main stage of this work is Chichibu City in Saitama Prefecture and the adjacent Yokoze Town in Chichibu District. In fact, it becomes the second work set in Chichibu following “Anohana,” and together with the later-released “The Boy Who Knew the Blue of the Sky,” it is called the “Chichibu Trilogy.” Yokoze Town in particular becomes the main stage of this work, with many places that form the core of the story actually existing, such as the school attended by protagonist Serase Jun, important temples, and station buildings.
The Work’s Themes and Chichibu’s Scenery
This work tells the story of the growth of a girl named Serase Jun who has sealed away her words due to childhood trauma and suffers from abdominal pain when she speaks. The quiet town surrounded by Chichibu’s mountains becomes an important directorial element that reflects the delicate emotions of the damaged characters. The magnificent nature of Chichibu, including Bukoh Mountain, and landscapes where one can feel the livelihood of people through retro stations and shopping streets, add depth to the story.
Complete Guide to Essential Sacred Sites for “Kokuhaku” Pilgrimage
Saisho Temple Number Ten Daiji Temple (Yokoze Town)
Known as the most important sacred site for pilgrimage, Saisho Temple Number Ten Daiji Temple in Yokoze Town is the location where Jun confesses to Sakagami Takumi about the “curse of the egg.” This appears multiple times throughout the work.
- Address: 5151 Yokoze, Yokoze Town, Chichibu District, Saitama Prefecture
- Access: About 15 minutes on foot from Yokoze Station on the Seibu Chichibu Line
- Highlights: The stone steps in front of the main hall and the atmosphere of the grounds match the depiction in the work, making it a sacred site visited by many fans. As one of the Chichibu Saisho pilgrimage sites, you can also receive a seal stamp.
- Photography Points: The angle looking up at the main hall from the gate, the view overlooking Yokoze town from the grounds
Yokoze Station (Seibu Chichibu Line)
The model for the station that Jun and others use for commuting is Yokoze Station. The retro wooden station building is faithfully recreated in the work, appearing in various scenes including the exterior, platform, and crossing.
- Address: 4091 Yokoze, Yokoze Town, Chichibu District, Saitama Prefecture
- Access: About 5 minutes by Seibu Chichibu Line from Seibu-Chichibu Station
- Highlights: A wooden station building with Showa-era atmosphere, the landscape around the station, views of Bukoh Mountain from the platform
- Photography Points: Front of the station building, platform to ticket gate direction, station front rotary, railroad crossing north of the station
- Pilgrimage Hub: Since many sacred sites are concentrated around Yokoze Station, it is ideal as a starting point for pilgrimage.
Hitsujiyama Park and Miharashi-no-Oka (Chichibu City)
The location that became the model for the “castle on the mountain” that plays an important role in the story is near Miharashi-no-Oka within Hitsujiyama Park. The silhouette of the castle visible from Jun’s house and the view from the observation deck are referenced.
- Address: 6360 Omiya, Chichibu City, Saitama Prefecture
- Access: About 20 minutes on foot from Seibu-Chichibu Station, or about 20 minutes from Chichibu Station
- Highlights: An observation deck with a panoramic view of Chichibu city center, also famous as a cherry blossom site in spring
- Photography Points: Views of Chichibu city center from Miharashi-no-Oka, landscapes with Bukoh Mountain as background
- Visit Tips: Wearing comfortable walking shoes is recommended due to continuous slopes. The spring cherry blossom season (mid-April to early May) offers especially beautiful scenery.
Area Around Chichibu Municipal Hanano-Ki Elementary School
The residential area around Chichibu Municipal Hanano-Ki Elementary School is referenced as the area where Serase Jun’s home is set. While the actual elementary school is not a filming location, the atmosphere of the surrounding town and roads are reflected in the work.
- Address: Banba-cho area, Chichibu City, Saitama Prefecture
- Access: About 10 minutes on foot from Seibu-Chichibu Station
- Highlights: Atmosphere of the residential area, town layout with slopes
- Caution: Since it is a residential area, care must be taken not to disturb residents.
Mihana-hata Station (Chichibu Railway)
Mihana-hata Station on the Chichibu Railway is also one of the models for stations that appear in the work. The station building’s exterior and the atmosphere of the surrounding shopping street are incorporated into the work.
- Address: 18-11 Higashi-cho, Chichibu City, Saitama Prefecture
- Access: About 5 minutes on foot from Seibu-Chichibu Station (directly connected by passage)
- Highlights: A retro station building, Chichibu Railway vehicles, shopping street in front of the station
- Photography Points: Front of the station building, view from the platform
In Front of Banba-cho Community Hall and Civic Center
The road in front of Banba-cho Community Hall and the landscape around the civic center are referenced as scenery around the Serase family. A public facility in a residential area where you can feel the daily life of Chichibu.
- Address: Banba-cho, Chichibu City, Saitama Prefecture
- Access: About 12 minutes on foot from Seibu-Chichibu Station
- Highlights: Scenery that conveys the life of the community
Jonathan’s Chichibu Location Area
The area around Jonathan’s Chichibu location is referenced as the model for a family restaurant that appears in the work. The parking lot and building layout are reflected in the work.
- Address: Banba-cho area, Chichibu City, Saitama Prefecture (along National Route 140)
- Access: About 15 minutes on foot from Seibu-Chichibu Station
- Highlights: Atmosphere of a suburban restaurant, scenery along the national route
Even More! Detailed Guide to Currently Existing “Kokusake Spots”
Area Around Chichibu Station
The area around Chichibu Railway’s Chichibu Station also appears in various parts of the work. The station front shopping street and the route toward Chichibu Shrine depict the scenery of central Chichibu.
- Chichibu Station: Main station of Chichibu Railway with characteristic retro atmosphere
- Chichibu Station Front Shopping Street: Shopping street with Showa-era atmosphere remaining
- Toward Chichibu Shrine: Area around Chichibu Shrine, about 3 minutes on foot from the station, also recommended for exploration
Seibu-Chichibu Station
Seibu-Chichibu Station, serving as the gateway to access from the Tokyo area, is also an important location appearing in the work. The station plaza and surrounding scenery are referenced.
- Address: 1-16-15 Nosaka-cho, Chichibu City, Saitama Prefecture
- Facilities: “Matsuri-no-Yu” hot spring facility directly connected to the station, food court
- Pilgrimage Starting Point: Convenient access from the Tokyo area with tourism information center
Area Around Yokoze Town Hall
The area around the town hall in the center of Yokoze Town also appears as the background of the work. An area where public facilities are concentrated, where you can feel the daily scenery of Yokoze.
National Route 299 and Chichibu-Oukan
The scenery along National Route 299 connecting Chichibu City and Yokoze Town appears in various parts of the work. The landscape of the road with Bukoh Mountain as background is impressive as characteristic Chichibu scenery.
Scenic Spots with Views of Bukoh Mountain
Bukoh Mountain, a symbol of Chichibu, is depicted in the background throughout the work. You can enjoy the magnificent view of Bukoh Mountain from various places including the area around Yokoze Station, Hitsujiyama Park, and National Route 299.
Thorough Explanation of Recommended Routes for “Kokuhaku” Pilgrimage
Half-Day Course (About 4 Hours): Yokoze Town Concentrated Route
The most efficient course to visit major sacred sites. Mainly on foot and accessible only by public transportation.
- Seibu-Chichibu Station → Move by Seibu Chichibu Line (5 minutes)
- Yokoze Station (30 minutes): Photograph the station building, platform, and crossing
- Daiji Temple (60 minutes): 15-minute walk, leisurely explore the grounds
- Around Yokoze Station (30 minutes): Shops in front of the station and surrounding scenery
- Return to Seibu-Chichibu Station (5 minutes)
- Mihana-hata Station (30 minutes): 5-minute walk, view the station building and surroundings
- Seibu-Chichibu Station: End
Time Required: About 4 hours (including travel, viewing, and photography)
Walking Distance: About 3km
Recommended For: First-time pilgrimage, those with limited time
Full-Day Course (About 8 Hours): Complete Chichibu and Yokoze Coverage Route
A fulfilling course that covers all major sacred sites.
Morning Section:
- Depart from Seibu-Chichibu Station (9:00)
- Hitsujiyama Park and Miharashi-no-Oka (90 minutes): 20-minute walk, enjoy views from the observation deck
- Chichibu City Center (60 minutes): Explore around Hanano-Ki Elementary School and Banba-cho Community Hall area
- Jonathan’s Chichibu Location Area (30 minutes): Confirm the exterior
Lunch: Around Chichibu Station or Seibu-Chichibu Station “Matsuri-no-Yu” (60 minutes)
Afternoon Section:
- Mihana-hata Station (30 minutes): Travel from Chichibu Station by walk or bus
- Seibu-Chichibu Station (10 minutes): 5-minute walk from Mihana-hata Station
- Yokoze Station (30 minutes): Travel by Seibu Chichibu Line
- Daiji Temple (90 minutes): 15-minute walk, leisurely visit and photograph
- Around Yokoze Station (30 minutes): The atmosphere at dusk is also beautiful
- Return to Seibu-Chichibu Station (around 5:00 PM)
Time Required: About 8 hours (including lunch)
Walking Distance: About 8km
Recommended For: Those who want to spend a full day on pilgrimage, those prioritizing photography
Weekend 2-Day Course: Chichibu Trilogy Pilgrimage Route
A course to visit sacred sites of “Anohana,” “Kokusake,” and “The Boy Who Knew the Blue of the Sky” in 2 days.
Day 1: Centered on Kokusake
- Morning: Yokoze Town area (Yokoze Station, Daiji Temple)
- Afternoon: Chichibu City area (Hitsujiyama Park, around Hanano-Ki Elementary School, Mihana-hata Station)
- Lodging: Accommodations in Chichibu City
Day 2: Anohana and The Boy Who Knew the Blue of the Sky
- Morning: Anohana sacred sites (Chichibu Bridge, Jorinji Temple, Chichibu Shrine, etc.)
- Afternoon: Sacred sites from The Boy Who Knew the Blue of the Sky (Chichibu Muse Park area)
Time Required: 2 days
Recommended For: Fans of the Chichibu Trilogy, those wanting to enjoy pilgrimage at a leisurely pace
Advice for Efficient Pilgrimage
Choosing Transportation Methods:
- Train Only: Utilize Seibu Chichibu Line and Chichibu Railway. Using Yokoze Station as a base is efficient
- Rental Bicycle: Rental bicycles available around Seibu-Chichibu Station. Cycling is comfortable with many flat roads
- Car: Some locations have limited parking, requiring prior confirmation. Hitsujiyama Park has parking available
Seasonal Recommendations:
- Spring (April-May): Hitsujiyama Park’s cherry blossoms are in season. Early morning recommended due to crowds
- Summer (July-August): Can also enjoy Chichibu Kawase Festival and other events
- Fall (October-November): Beautiful autumn foliage and comfortable weather
- Winter (December-February): Chichibu Night Festival (December) period is crowded, but clear winter air makes Bukoh Mountain beautiful
Practical Information for Enhanced Sacred Site Pilgrimage Enjoyment
How to Obtain Sacred Site Exploration Maps
Chichibu City and Yokoze Town distribute “Kokusake Sacred Site Exploration Maps” free of charge.
Distribution Locations:
- Seibu-Chichibu Station Tourism Information Center
- Chichibu Station Tourism Information Center
- Yokoze Town Tourism Information Center
- Chichibu City Hall Tourism Section
- Yokoze Town Hall
Maps include photos and locations of major sacred sites, allowing even first-time pilgrims to confidently explore. PDF versions may also be available for download online.
Etiquette and Precautions During Photography
Consideration for local residents is most important in enjoying sacred site pilgrimage.
Basic Etiquette:
- Do Not Trespass on Private Property: Limit photography of schools and homes to exteriors only
- Avoid Speaking Loudly: Be especially quiet in residential areas
- Always Take Trash With You: Cooperate in preserving sacred sites
- Follow Traffic Rules: Be careful of vehicles and bicycles when photographing on roads
- Obtain Permission at Commercial Facilities: Confirm with staff before photographing at restaurants
Precautions at Daiji Temple:
- Observe visitor etiquette
- Photography inside the main hall is generally prohibited
- Handle seal stamp requests respectfully
- Move quietly through the grounds
Access Information: Tokyo to Chichibu
By Train:
- Seibu Line Route (Fastest, Recommended)
- Ikebukuro Station → Seibu-Chichibu Station
- Limited Express Red Arrow: About 80 minutes (express ticket required)
- Express: About 100 minutes
- Fare: 780 yen per way (express), plus 720 yen express ticket
- JR + Chichibu Railway Route
- Ueno Station → Kumagaya Station (JR Takasaki Line) → Chichibu Station (Chichibu Railway)
- Travel Time: About 120 minutes
- Fare: About 1,500 yen per way
By Car:
- About 30 minutes from Hanazono IC on the Kan-Etsu Expressway via National Route 140
- About 50 minutes from Sayama-Hidaka IC on the Shuto Expressway via National Route 299
- Parking: Paid parking available near Seibu-Chichibu Station and Hitsujiyama Park
Lodging Facility Information
Accommodations in Chichibu City:
- Hot Spring Inns: Multiple inns offering hot springs from Chichibu Seven Hot Springs
- Business Hotels: Several options around Chichibu Station and Seibu-Chichibu Station
- Guest Houses: Increasing budget-friendly accommodation for backpackers
- Campgrounds: For nature enthusiasts (reservations required)
Booking Tips:
- Early reservations essential for weekends, cherry blossom season, and Chichibu Night Festival
- Day-trip hot springs like “Matsuri-no-Yu” are well-developed, making day trips fully enjoyable
Gourmet and Souvenir Information
Chichibu Local Cuisine:
- Chichibu Soba: Hand-made soba using Chichibu-grown buckwheat flour
- Waraji Katsudon: Chichibu’s B-class gourmet, characterized by large cutlet
- Chichibu Hormon: Hormone grilled with miso sauce
- Chichibu Gelato: Gelato made with local milk
Recommended Souvenirs:
- Chichibu Mochi: Chichibu specialty confectionery
- Chichibu Whisky: Famous for Ichiro’s Malt
- Chichibu Maple Syrup: A production area for domestic maple syrup
- Kokusake Goods: Limited goods sold at local shops
Cast and Voice Actors of “Kokuhaku”
Main Characters
Serase Jun (成瀬順)
- Voice Actor: Minase Inori
- The protagonist of this work. Due to childhood trauma, she seals away her words through the “curse of the egg” and suffers abdominal pain when trying to speak. Introverted and timid, but her heart is full of feelings she wants to convey.
Sakagami Takumi (坂上拓実)
- Voice Actor: Uchiyama Kouki
- A former baseball team ace whose athletic career was cut short by injury. Selected for the community exchange event planning committee, he begins to interact with Jun.
Nito Natsuki (仁藤菜月)
- Voice Actor: Amemiya Amaama
- A cheerleader with a bright and sociable personality. Takumi’s ex-girlfriend, harboring complex emotions.
Tasaki Daiki (田崎大樹)
- Voice Actor: Hosoya Yoshimasa
- Takumi’s best friend and baseball team member. Has feelings for Natsuki. Cheerful and forward-thinking personality.
Production Staff
- Director: Nagaii Tatsuyuki
- Screenplay: Okada Marui
- Character Design: Tanaka Masataka
- Music: Yokoyama Masaru
- Animation Production: A-1 Pictures
This production team is the same as “Anohana,” and through works set in Chichibu, they have built deep connections with the region.
Kokusake and Chichibu’s Relationship: Regional Revitalization and Anime Tourism
Position as Chichibu Trilogy
“Kokuhaku” is positioned as one of the Chichibu Trilogy alongside “Anohana” and “The Boy Who Knew the Blue of the Sky,” significantly contributing to anime tourism in the region. Since its 2015 release, many anime fans have visited Yokoze Town and surrounding areas, leading to regional economic activation.
Regional Cooperation System
Chichibu City and Yokoze Town actively support sacred site pilgrimage through distribution of exploration maps, providing information at tourism information centers, and collaborating with regional events. Local shopping streets sometimes feature “Kokusake” merchandise and panel exhibitions.
Differences from Live-Action Film Version
A live-action film version was released in 2017, though some setting details differ from the anime version. Sacred site pilgrimage typically focuses on anime version locations.
Chichibu Tourism to Enjoy Alongside Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Chichibu’s Three Major Festivals
- Chichibu Night Festival (December 2-3): One of Japan’s three major float festivals, UNESCO intangible cultural heritage
- Chichibu Kawase Festival (July 19-20): Festival adorning summer Chichibu
- Ryusei Festival (Second Sunday of October): Rare festival launching hand-made rockets
Chichibu Saisho Pilgrimage
The pilgrimage course of the Chichibu Thirty-Four Kannon Sacred Places has long been a beloved pilgrimage route. Daiji Temple, a sacred site in “Kokusake,” is included as the tenth sacred place.
Nature and Outdoor Activities
- Nagatoro Gorge: Famous scenic spot known for river cruising and rock formations
- Mitsumine Shrine: A leading power spot in the Kanto region at 1,100 meters elevation
- Chichibu Muse Park: Large-scale park, also setting for “The Boy Who Knew the Blue of the Sky”
Summary: How to Maximize Enjoyment of “Kokuhaku” Sacred Site Pilgrimage
The sacred site pilgrimage for “Kokuhaku” can be efficiently explored on foot or by public transportation centered around Chichibu City and Yokoze Town in Saitama Prefecture. Major sacred sites including Yokoze Station, Daiji Temple, and Hitsujiyama Park are settings for important scenes, and visiting them in person deepens understanding of the work.
The key to successful pilgrimage is prior planning and consideration for the community. Obtaining exploration maps and organizing efficient routes, and above all, maintaining respect for local residents is essential. A special experience awaits you where Chichibu’s rich nature, warm people, and the world of the work converge.
As the title “Kokoro ga Sakebitagatterunda” suggests—a story of characters harboring inexpressible feelings. Walking through the actual stage of Chichibu will make the work’s message resonate more deeply in your heart. Create your own precious sacred site pilgrimage memories amid the beautiful seasonal landscapes.
