“A Place Further Than the Universe” Sacred Site Pilgrimage Complete Guide: Thorough Explanation of Tatebayashi City, Gunma Prefecture Filming Locations
What is “A Place Further Than the Universe”?
The TV anime “A Place Further Than the Universe” (commonly known as “Yorimoi”) follows Kimari Tamaoki, the protagonist attending high school in Gunma Prefecture, who learns about her classmate Shirase Kobuchizawa, whose mother has gone missing, and together with others heads to Antarctica in this “Girls’ High School Antarctica Youth Graphic.”
The series aired from January to March 2018, captivating many fans with its moving story and careful artwork. The title derives from a single statement by former astronaut Mamoru Mohri, who said “Antarctica’s Showa Station is farther than space.”
As important locations in the work, sites such as “Tatebayashi Station,” “Tsutsujigaoka Park,” and “Morin-ji Temple” within Tatebayashi City, Gunma Prefecture are faithfully depicted, and the city has been selected for six consecutive years as one of “88 Japanese Anime Sacred Sites Worth Visiting.” It is the only “anime sacred site” in Gunma Prefecture where regional revitalization is being conducted in cooperation with local volunteers.
Why Tatebayashi City Became the Setting and Its Position in the Work
Tatebayashi City primarily serves as the setting for the domestic portion (Episodes 1-5), depicted as the hometown of Kimari and other characters. The cityscape of Tatebayashi City, Gunma Prefecture is reproduced extremely faithfully within the work, and the real scenery appearing as anime imagery provides viewers with a strong sense of presence.
The four main characters (Kimari Tamaoki, Shirase Kobuchizawa, Hinata Miyake, and Yuzuki Shiraishi) have been commissioned as “Tatebayashi Anime Ambassadors,” the first of their kind in Tatebayashi City, demonstrating deep connections with the region.
Sacred Sites Around Tatebayashi Station
Tatebayashi Station
Tatebayashi Station is the most frequently appearing important spot in the work. As a station on the Tobu Railway, scenes of characters using it multiple times are depicted.
Access Information:
- A major station served by the Tobu Isesaki Line, Tobu Sano Line, and Tobu Koizumi Line
- Approximately 70 minutes from Asakusa Station, Tokyo via limited express Ryomou
- Station interior and station plaza rotary appear in the work
Within the station, displays and posters related to “A Place Further Than the Universe” may be posted, making it an ideal starting point for sacred site pilgrimage. There is also a tourist information office at the station plaza where you can obtain a sacred site pilgrimage map.
Around Tatebayashi Station East Entrance
The shopping streets and cityscapes around the east exit of the station also appear in the work. They are used in everyday scenes where characters walk, and actually walking there allows you to experience the work’s world view.
Tsutsujigaoka Park: A Symbolic Spot in the Work
Tsutsujigaoka Park is a symbolic spot where important scenes unfold within the work. Particularly, scenes around the gazebo (azumaya) have left a strong impression on many fans.
Park Features:
- A nationally designated scenic spot with approximately 10,000 azalea plants of about 100 varieties
- A historic park continuing from the Edo period
- Located beside Lake Shionuma in a natural-rich environment
- Within the work, the gazebo appears in important conversation scenes between Shirase and Kimari
Highlights:
- Gazebo: Used in important scenes such as where Shirase and Kimari confide in each other
- Lake Shionuma scenery: Beautiful waterside landscape faithfully reproduced in the work
- Walking paths: You can actually retrace the paths where characters walked
Access:
- Approximately 30 minutes on foot from Tatebayashi Station
- By bus from Tatebayashi Station, get off at “Tsutsujigaoka Park”
- Parking available (charged during azalea festival season)
Stage spot signboards are installed within the park, allowing you to confirm which scenes they were used in while on pilgrimage.
Morin-ji Temple: Fusion of Tanuki Legend and the Work
Morin-ji Temple is a Soto Zen temple known for the legend of the “Bunbuku Chagama” (The Lucky Tea Kettle), and it appears impressively within the work as well. The grounds feature numerous tanuki stone statues lined up, creating a unique atmosphere.
Features of Morin-ji Temple:
- A historic temple founded in the Muromachi period
- The setting for the “Bunbuku Chagama” folk tale
- Approximately 20 or more tanuki statues scattered throughout the grounds
- Appears in scenes of the approach and temple grounds within the work
Must-See Points as a Sacred Site:
- Approach path: You can recreate scenes where characters walked
- Tanuki statues: Distinctive scenery that also appears in the work
- Main gate: An impressive gate structure that evokes history
- Temple grounds: The serene atmosphere matches the work’s world view
Access:
- Approximately 10 minutes on foot from “Morin-ji-mae Station” on the Tobu Isesaki Line
- Approximately 20 minutes on foot from Tatebayashi Station
- Free parking available
Morin-ji-mae Station itself also appears in the work, and the route from the station to Morin-ji Temple is popular as a sacred site pilgrimage course.
Other Major Sacred Sites
Morin-ji-mae Station
A small station on the Tobu Isesaki Line, but it is used in important scenes within the work. The simple atmosphere of the unmanned station creates the work’s world view.
Features:
- Station building and interior appearing in the work
- Views from the platform also faithfully reproduced
- Scenery in front of the station also appears in the work
Commercial Streets and Cityscapes in Tatebayashi City
The shopping streets and residential areas where the daily lives of characters are depicted also use actual scenery from Tatebayashi City.
Major Appearing Spots:
- Shopping street scenery
- Residential area roads
- Pedestrian bridges
- Areas around convenience stores
These spots are also spaces of daily life for local residents, so it is important to maintain proper etiquette and visit quietly during pilgrimage.
Tatebayashi City’s Official Sacred Site Pilgrimage Support
Installation of Stage Spot Signboards
Tatebayashi City has installed “stage spot signboards” at major spots throughout the city. These signboards feature explanations with photos of which scenes from the work were filmed at each location, making sacred site pilgrimage even more enjoyable.
Provision of Sacred Site Pilgrimage Maps
The Tatebayashi City Tourism Association and the tourist information office at Tatebayashi Station distribute “A Place Further Than the Universe” sacred site pilgrimage maps for free. These maps include:
- Location information for major spots
- Appearance scenes in the work
- Access methods to each spot
- Estimated time requirements
and are detailed enough to allow you to enjoy sacred site pilgrimage efficiently.
Wrapped Bicycle Rental
Tatebayashi City offers rental services for bicycles wrapped with “A Place Further Than the Universe” designs. You can feel the work’s world view while efficiently visiting sacred sites throughout the city.
Rental Information:
- Rental locations: Designated locations such as in front of Tatebayashi Station
- Charge: Several hundred yen (details to be confirmed)
- Reservations: Advance booking recommended
With bicycle travel, it’s possible to efficiently tour major spots such as Tatebayashi Station, Tsutsujigaoka Park, and Morin-ji Temple within half a day.
Collaboration Events and Merchandise Information
Tatebayashi Anime Ambassador Appointment Commemorative Events
To commemorate the appointment of four main characters as “Tatebayashi Anime Ambassadors,” events are held periodically. In the past:
- Stamp rallies: Collect stamps at five locations throughout the city and complete one postcard
- Panel exhibitions: Work panel displays at Tatebayashi Station and City Hall
- Voice actor talk events: Voice cast appearances at commemorative events
have been held. The latest event information can be confirmed on the Tatebayashi City official website and tourism association website.
Tatebayashi Hills Hotel Collaboration Accommodation Plan
Tatebayashi Hills Hotel offers “A Place Further Than the Universe” collaboration accommodation plans (content may change depending on the period).
Plan Features:
- Provision of original merchandise
- Special work-related amenities
- Convenient location for sacred site pilgrimage
- Good access near Tatebayashi Station
This is a valuable opportunity for visitors from afar to enjoy the work’s world view while staying.
Hanayama Udon Collaboration Products
“Hanayama Udon,” a long-established udon restaurant with its main store in Tatebayashi City, sells collaboration products with “A Place Further Than the Universe.”
Product Information:
- Collaboration package udon sets
- Original design packaging
- Popular as souvenirs
- Available for purchase at the store as well as online
Collaboration between Tatebayashi’s specialty products such as “Oni Himokawa” and the work is perfect as a commemorative item from sacred site pilgrimage.
Other Collaboration Merchandise
“A Place Further Than the Universe” related merchandise is sold at various locations throughout Tatebayashi City:
- Original postcards
- Clear files
- Key chains
- T-shirts
- Towels
- Metal badges
These items can be purchased at tourist information offices and participating stores.
Efficient Sacred Site Pilgrimage Model Courses
Half-Day Course (approximately 4 hours)
- Tatebayashi Station (30 minutes): View station interior and plaza rotary, obtain sacred site pilgrimage map at tourist information office
- Morin-ji-mae Station (5 minutes by train + 10 minutes on foot): View station building, then head to Morin-ji Temple
- Morin-ji Temple (40 minutes): Stroll through grounds and approach path, photograph tanuki statues
- Tsutsujigaoka Park (20 minutes travel + 60 minutes stay): Explore park centered around the gazebo area
- Around Tatebayashi Station (30 minutes travel + 30 minutes stay): Explore shopping streets and cityscapes
Full Day Experience Course (approximately 7 hours)
Morning:
- Tatebayashi Station (30 minutes): Departure point, obtain map
- Morin-ji-mae Station/Morin-ji Temple (90 minutes): Take plenty of photographs
- Tsutsujigaoka Park (90 minutes): Explore park in detail
Lunch: Enjoy local specialty cuisine in Tatebayashi City (such as Hanayama Udon)
Afternoon:
- City shopping streets and cityscapes (60 minutes): Visit detailed spots appearing in the work
- Around Tatebayashi Station (60 minutes): Final confirmation and merchandise purchase
- Tatebayashi City Hall or tourism facility (30 minutes): View displays if available
Recommended Bicycle Route
When renting a wrapped bicycle:
Tatebayashi Station → City street spots (15 minutes) → Tsutsujigaoka Park (15 minutes) → Morin-ji Temple (10 minutes) → Morin-ji-mae Station (5 minutes) → Tatebayashi Station (15 minutes)
With a bicycle, travel time is shortened, allowing you to efficiently visit more spots.
Notes and Etiquette for Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Consideration for Local Residents
Many of the sacred sites in Tatebayashi City are also living spaces for local residents. Follow the following etiquette:
- Keep voices down: Especially in residential areas and during early morning/late evening
- Do not trespass on private property: Photograph from public roads
- Always take trash with you: Cooperation with environmental cleanliness
- Obey traffic rules: No jaywalking or darting across streets
- Do not park in no-parking zones: Use designated parking areas
Notes on Photography
- Be considerate so other tourists and residents are not captured: Be mindful of portrait rights
- Use tripods only in places that don’t bother others: Avoid use during crowded times
- Obtain permission before photographing inside stores: No unauthorized photography
- Confirm photography-prohibited areas at temples and shrines: Show respect for religious facilities
Response to Season and Weather
Summer (June-September):
- Tatebayashi City is one of Japan’s highest temperature areas
- Heat exhaustion precautions are essential: hat, umbrella, frequent water intake
- Use of sunscreen recommended
Winter (December-February):
- Cold weather precautions: Prepare warm clothing
- Sun sets early, so pay attention to time allocation
Rainy Season (June):
- Prepare rain gear
- Wear non-slip shoes
Tatebayashi City’s Attractions and Tourism Information
History and Culture of Tatebayashi
Tatebayashi City flourished as a castle town governed by Yasumasa Sakakibara, one of the Tokugawa Four Heavenly Kings, during the Edo period. With many historic buildings and cultural properties, you can enjoy historical exploration together with “A Place Further Than the Universe” sacred site pilgrimage.
Tatebayashi’s Specialty Cuisine
Udon:
- Hanayama Udon’s “Oni Himokawa”: Characteristically wide udon noodles
- Tatebayashi Udon: Regional traditional udon culture
Others:
- Bread made with Tatebayashi wheat
- Dishes made with local vegetables
- Freshwater fish dishes from Lake Shionuma
Azalea Festival
The “Azalea Festival” held from mid-April to early May each year is Tatebayashi City’s largest event. During this period:
- Tsutsujigaoka Park is colored with blooming azaleas
- The area is bustling with many tourists
- “A Place Further Than the Universe” related events may be held
However, due to crowding, sacred site pilgrimage may not be possible at a leisurely pace.
Detailed Access Information
Access by Train
From Tokyo area:
- Approximately 70 minutes from Asakusa Station, Tokyo via limited express Ryomou on the Tobu Isesaki Line
- Approximately 90-120 minutes from Asakusa Station via local trains on the Tobu Isesaki Line
- Can also board from Kitasenjyu Station
From Saitama area:
- Approximately 60 minutes from Kasukabe Station on the Tobu Isesaki Line
- Approximately 40 minutes from Kuki Station
From Tochigi area:
- Approximately 30 minutes from Sano Station on the Tobu Sano Line
Access by Car
Expressway:
- Approximately 10 minutes from Tatebayashi IC on the Tohoku Expressway to the city center
- Approximately 20 minutes from Ota Kiryu IC on the Kita-Kanto Expressway
General roads:
- National Routes 122 and 354 pass through
- Approximately 80 km from Tokyo, approximately 2 hours
Parking Information:
- Around Tatebayashi Station: Multiple paid parking lots
- Tsutsujigaoka Park: Free parking lot (charged during azalea festival season)
- Morin-ji Temple: Free parking lot
Surrounding Tourist Attractions
Gunma Prefectural Museum of Art, Tatebayashi
An art museum harmonized with nature, displaying contemporary art works. Popular as a cultural facility in Tatebayashi City.
Chiaki Mukai Memorial Children’s Science Museum
A memorial museum for Chiaki Mukai, Japan’s first female astronaut. Fans also visit due to the “space” connection.
Flour Museum
An enterprise museum of the Nisshin Seifun Group. You can learn about the history of flour milling.
Ashikaga City (Adjacent City)
Approximately 30 minutes by car from Ashikaga City includes:
- Ashikaga School: Japan’s oldest school
- Bannadera Temple: A temple with a nationally designated main hall
- Ashikaga Flower Park: Famous for large wisteria
You can enjoy regional tourism together with sacred site pilgrimage.
Methods for Obtaining Latest Information
Official Websites
- Tatebayashi City Official Website: Event information, ambassador-related news
- Tatebayashi City Tourism Association: Tourism information, sacred site pilgrimage map downloads
- “A Place Further Than the Universe” Official Website: Work information, collaboration information
SNS
- Tatebayashi City Official Twitter/X: Latest event information
- Hashtag “#Yorimoi” “#A Place Further Than the Universe”: Pilgrimage reports from fans
- Hashtag “#Tatebayashi City”: Regional information
Information Gathering on Site
- Tourist information office in front of Tatebayashi Station: Visit during business hours
- City Hall Tourism Department: Detailed information provision
- Participating stores: Merchandise information, event information
Conclusion: Experience the World of “Yorimoi” in Tatebayashi
Tatebayashi City, Gunma Prefecture, a sacred site of “A Place Further Than the Universe,” is a fascinating place where you can fully savor the work’s world view. Major spots such as Tatebayashi Station, the gazebo in Tsutsujigaoka Park, and Morin-ji Temple are faithfully reproduced in the work, and visiting them in person allows you to experience the paths walked by the characters.
Tatebayashi City has established systems to warmly welcome sacred site pilgrims, including the “Tatebayashi Anime Ambassador” system and installation of stage spot signboards, as well as wrapped bicycle rental services. Additionally, various events and merchandise that allow you to enjoy the work’s world view are prepared, such as collaboration products with Hanayama Udon and accommodation plans at Tatebayashi Hills Hotel.
When undertaking sacred site pilgrimage, you can have an even more fulfilling experience by not forgetting consideration for local residents and proper etiquette, while also enjoying Tatebayashi City’s history, culture, and cuisine. The accessibility of approximately 70 minutes by limited express from Tokyo is also attractive.
Why not revisit the youth and adventure story depicted in “A Place Further Than the Universe” at its setting in Tatebayashi City? For fans who love the work, Tatebayashi City is a must-visit sacred site.
