“Is the Order a Rabbit?” (commonly known as “Gochi-usa”) is a heartwarming slice-of-life anime beloved by many fans. One of the work’s major attractions is the beautiful European-style streetscapes that feel as though you’ve stepped into a storybook. This article provides a detailed introduction to the real European towns that served as models for the work, as well as spots in Karuizawa, Japan, where you can experience the world of “Gochi-usa.”
“Is the Order a Rabbit?” – Work Overview
“Is the Order a Rabbit?” is a four-panel manga work by Koi-sensei, serialized in “Manga Time Kirara MAX” since 2011. The story depicts the heartwarming daily life of the protagonist Cocoa, who moves to a half-timbered town to advance to high school and works at the coffee shop “Rabbit House” where she lodges.
Storyline
Cocoa moves into the coffee shop “Rabbit House,” managed by a friend of her grandmother, upon entering high school. There she meets a cast of unique characters: Chino, a small and cool girl; Rize, with a military-like temperament; Chiya, an easygoing girl; and Syaro, the signboard girl of a Japanese-style cafe. Through her days with these girls, Cocoa enjoys her new life in the town.
The work’s greatest characteristic is its beautiful European-style streetscapes and the warm relationships among the characters. The small details of everyday life are carefully depicted, providing viewers with healing and comfort.
Charm of the Characters
Hoto Cocoa is the bright and energetic protagonist who can quickly befriend anyone due to her sociable nature. She dotes on Chino like a younger sister, sometimes getting carried away.
Kafuu Chino is the signboard girl of Rabbit House, a small and cool-looking girl who, despite her appearance, has a lonely side.
Tennouzaka Rize comes from a military family and has a disciplined and serious personality. However, her love for cute things is her charming gap.
Uji Matsu Chiya and Kirima Syaro are girls involved with the Japanese-style cafe “Amauzusou” and the herbal tea specialty shop “Fleur de Lapin,” respectively, and are schoolmates of Cocoa and the others.
What is the “Half-Timbered Town” that is the Setting of the Work?
The setting of “Is the Order a Rabbit?” is a fictional town called the “half-timbered town with stone-paved streets” or “half-timbered town” in the work. Though the town’s official name is not revealed, its beautiful scenery has captivated many viewers.
Characteristics of Half-Timbered Architecture
Half-timbered architecture (half-timber) is a traditional architectural style found in Europe, particularly in Germany and the Alsace region of France. It is characterized by a structure where thick wooden frames form the skeleton, with the spaces filled with plaster or bricks, creating beautiful patterns from the exposed wooden framework on the exterior walls.
Most of the buildings that appear in the work strongly reflect these characteristics of half-timbered architecture, with colorful exterior walls, steep roofs, small windows, and stone-paved streets carefully depicted, retaining the appearance of medieval Europe.
Town Atmosphere and World View
The town in the work has a unique worldview that blends modern elements with traditional European streetscapes. While modern technology such as mobile phones and the internet exists, the town’s landscape retains the beauty reminiscent of Europe from the 19th to early 20th century.
Stone-paved streets, antique street lamps, windows decorated with colorful flowers, fountains in small squares—every detail is carefully depicted, giving viewers the desire to “visit someday.”
Model Towns: Beautiful European Streets
The author, Koi-sensei, has stated that rather than modeling the setting of “Is the Order a Rabbit?” on one specific town, various elements from many European towns were incorporated.
Alsace Region, France
Colmar
Colmar is a beautiful town located in the Alsace region of eastern France and is one of the most famous model locations for “Gochi-usa.” With a population of approximately 70,000, this town is known as the “Capital of Alsatian Wine” and boasts many well-preserved half-timbered buildings.
The “Petite Venise” (Little Venice) district in the old town has colorful half-timbered houses lining the waterfront, evoking the world of “Gochi-usa.” Flowered windows, stone-paved paths, small bridges—a landscape remarkably similar to scenes from the work unfolds.
Colmar’s attractions include the Saint Martin Church, Unterlinden Museum, and the Pfister House, allowing visitors to enjoy historical structures continuing from the Middle Ages. The town is particularly magical during December’s Christmas market, when the entire town is illuminated.
Strasbourg
Strasbourg, the central city of the Alsace region, is also one of the towns that influenced the worldview of “Gochi-usa.” Despite being an international city where the European Parliament is located, the “Petite France” district of the old town preserves beautiful half-timbered architecture.
This district, surrounded by the Ill River, is also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with buildings dating from the 16th to 17th centuries. Half-timbered houses reflected in the water, stone bridges, cafés along the waterfront—a romantic landscape unfolds.
Strasbourg Cathedral is known as a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, with its delicate sculptures and beautiful stained glass a must-see. Strasbourg’s Christmas market is also Europe’s oldest and largest, earning it the title “Capital of Christmas.”
Half-Timbered Towns in Germany
Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Located in Bavaria, southern Germany, Rothenburg is called the “Jewel of the Middle Ages.” The old town surrounded by city walls retains a strong medieval atmosphere, as if time has stopped.
Centered around Markt Square, colorful half-timbered houses stand in rows, with stone-paved paths continuing like a maze. The Y-shaped intersection known as Plönlein is Rothenburg’s iconic landscape beloved by tourists worldwide.
The town features “Käthe Wohlfahrt,” a famous shop selling Christmas goods year-round, where you can enjoy the fairytale-like atmosphere that resonates with the “Gochi-usa” worldview.
Riquewihr
Located along the Alsace Wine Route in the Alsace region, the small village of Riquewihr is also recommended for “Gochi-usa” fans. With a population of about 1,200, this village is counted among “France’s Most Beautiful Villages.”
The 16th-century streetscape is preserved in near-complete form, with colorful half-timbered houses, flower-decorated windows, and stone-paved narrow alleyways creating a storybook-like landscape. The entire village is a pedestrian area, allowing for leisurely strolls.
Budapest, Hungary
The historic thermal spa Széchenyi featured by Koi-sensei in Hungary is a Neobรroque-style beautiful building in Budapest, where visitors can enjoy chess in outdoor pools—embodying the “non-ordinary within the ordinary” found in the “Gochi-usa” worldview.
Budapest also has many elements resonating with the work’s atmosphere, including beautiful scenery along the Danube, colorful buildings lining the streets, and historic café culture.
Other European Towns
Czech Český Krumlov, Austrian Hallstatt, and Belgian Bruges are also known as beautiful towns resonating with the “Gochi-usa” worldview, featuring half-timbered architecture, stone-paved streets, and canal-lined scenery.
Experiencing the “Gochi-usa” World in Karuizawa
While visiting overseas model locations requires significant time and expense, there are places in Japan where you can experience the “Gochi-usa” atmosphere. That place is Karuizawa in Nagano Prefecture.
Karuizawa and European-Style Streetscapes
Karuizawa developed as a highland resort since the Meiji Era. It was developed under strong influence from Western culture, with Western-style buildings, stone-paved roads, and lush greenery scattered throughout areas with European atmosphere.
Around the old Karuizawa Ginza street and church street, brick and wooden Western-style buildings line the streets, creating a landscape both nostalgic and full of exotic atmosphere. The harmony between nature and buildings is particularly wonderful during the fresh green season and autumn foliage, making it ideal for strolling.
“Usagi no Mori Karuizawa Branch” – Holy Site for Gochi-usa Fans
The must-visit spot for “Gochi-usa” fans in Karuizawa is “Usagi no Mori Karuizawa Branch.” This restaurant, with its name and atmosphere, evokes the “Gochi-usa” worldview and has become a popular destination for many fans.
Store Information and Basic Data
Location: 1323-967 Karuizawa, Karuizawa-machi, Kitasaku-gun, Nagano Prefecture (along Karuizawa-Shiozawa Street)
Access: Approximately 8-minute walk from the north exit of Karuizawa Station, also convenient by car
Business Hours: Lunch time 11:30~14:00 (subject to change; confirming before visit is recommended)
Average Budget: Lunch under 999 yen, Dinner 1,000-1,999 yen
Store Atmosphere
A single-family house restaurant, “Usagi no Mori” is rabbit-themed as its name suggests. Throughout the store, ceramic rabbits, stuffed animals, paintings, and other rabbit motif decorations are placed.
With retro interior design, warm lighting, and antique-style furniture, it feels as though you’ve visited “Rabbit House.” The windows offer views of Karuizawa’s lush greenery, allowing visitors to forget urban hustle and bustle in this healing space.
Menu and Cuisine
“Usagi no Mori” offers a menu centered on Western food and is praised for its cost performance. Popular menu items include:
- Hamburger Steak with Tomato Sauce and Cheese Set (with salad, rice, miso soup)
- Spicy Curry Set (with salad, miso soup)
- Various Western Food Sets (generous portions)
Interestingly, this Western restaurant serves miso soup, which reflects a characteristic of Karuizawa’s Western cuisine. The dishes are voluminous with reasonable prices, earning love from locals as well.
Precautions When Visiting
“Usagi no Mori” is popular and often has lines during lunch time. Especially on weekends and during tourist season, crowding is expected, so it’s recommended to arrive when the store opens or to plan with extra time.
Located slightly away from the tourist area along Shiozawa Street, access by car is convenient. Parking is also available.
Other European-Style Spots in Karuizawa
Old Karuizawa Ginza
Karuizawa’s main street, old Karuizawa Ginza, is an area with cafés, restaurants, and gift shops lining the stone-paved street. With many Western-style buildings, you can enjoy the atmosphere of strolling through a small European town.
Karuizawa Kogen Church
A historic church built in the Taisho Era, this wooden structure with warmth stands nestled in the forest. Its appearance, reminiscent of a small church in a European countryside, resonates with the “Gochi-usa” worldview.
Haruni Terrace
A commercial facility spreading along the Yugawa stream with clear water, featuring nine modern buildings scattered on wood decking surrounded by trees. Its architectural design harmonizing with nature suggests a European resort.
Around Hoshi no Yu Onsen
Spa facilities and accommodation scattered throughout the forest have the atmosphere of a European spa resort. The harmony between nature and architecture is beautiful, enjoyable even just by strolling.
Holy Site Pilgrimage Points and Recommended Spots
Here are points to consider when planning a “Gochi-usa” holy site pilgrimage.
When Visiting European Model Locations
Best Season
Spring (April-June): Flowers bloom and the town becomes colorful. The climate is mild and ideal for strolling.
Autumn (September-November): Beautiful autumn foliage and harvest festivals are held.
Winter (December): Christmas markets are held with a magical atmosphere. The Christmas markets in Strasbourg and Colmar are especially must-see.
Efficient Tour Route
When visiting centered on the Alsace region, the following route is recommended:
- Paris to Strasbourg (approximately 2 hours 20 minutes by TGV)
- Stay in Strasbourg (1-2 days)
- Move to Colmar (approximately 30 minutes by train)
- Stay in Colmar (1-2 days, also visit surrounding villages like Riquewihr)
- To Rothenburg, Germany (optional, approximately 3 hours by car)
Photography Spots
- Colmar: Waterfront of Petite Venise district, Pfister House
- Strasbourg: Petite France district, Strasbourg Cathedral area
- Rothenburg: Plönlein, Markt Square
When Visiting Karuizawa
Access
It’s approximately 1 hour 10 minutes from Tokyo by Shinkansen, making day trips possible. However, 1-2 nights are recommended to slowly enjoy the town’s atmosphere.
Recommended Stay Plan
Day 1:
- Morning: Arrive at Karuizawa Station, stroll through old Karuizawa Ginza
- Lunch: Have lunch at “Usagi no Mori”
- Afternoon: Visit Karuizawa Kogen Church, Haruni Terrace
- Evening: Relax at Hoshi no Yu Onsen
Day 2:
- Morning: Enjoy Karuizawa’s nature by bicycle
- Lunch: Lunch at a café in old Karuizawa
- Afternoon: Shopping, purchase souvenirs
What to Bring and What to Wear
Karuizawa is a highland area at approximately 1,000 meters elevation, so it’s cool even in summer mornings and evenings. Especially in spring and autumn, bringing something to layer is recommended. Since strolling is central, comfortable walking shoes are essential.
Photography Tips
Points for capturing the “Gochi-usa” worldview in photos:
- Early morning photography: Few tourists and soft morning light create beautiful photos
- Focus on details: Photograph flowered windows, stone pavement texture, building decorations
- Include seasonal elements: Include flowers, autumn leaves, snow in composition
- Café atmosphere: Photograph warm interior lighting and street views from windows
5.
Precautions When Visiting Model Locations
Respect Local Culture and Manners
The European model locations are actual towns where people live. Especially in residential areas:
- Don’t make loud noises
- Don’t enter private property without permission
- Don’t disturb residents’ daily life
- Always take garbage with you or dispose at designated places
Photography Considerations
- Obtain permission before photographing in stores
- Be considerate if people appear in photos
- Commercial photography may require special permission
Language Preparation
When visiting Europe, it helps to memorize basic phrases in the local language (French, German, etc.). English is widely understood, but greeting in the local language makes a good impression.
Safety Measures
- Pay attention to valuables management
- Avoid walking alone at night
- Watch for pickpockets in tourist areas
- Obtain overseas travel insurance
Budget Planning
When Traveling to Europe
- Airfare: 100,000-200,000 yen round trip (varies by season)
- Accommodation: 5,000-15,000 yen per night (depends on hotel grade)
- Food: 3,000-8,000 yen per day
- Transportation: 2,000-5,000 yen per day for inter-city and local transport
- Sightseeing: 1,000-3,000 yen per day for admission fees
When Traveling to Karuizawa
- Transportation: Approximately 12,000 yen round trip from Tokyo (Shinkansen)
- Accommodation: 5,000-30,000 yen per night (varies significantly by facility)
- Food: 3,000-8,000 yen per day
- Bicycle rental: 1,000-2,000 yen per day
To Enjoy the “Gochi-usa” Worldview More Deeply
Preparation with the Work
Reviewing the anime and manga before visiting model locations makes comparison with actual scenery more enjoyable. Especially checking scenes with impressive streetscapes is helpful.
Enjoy Café Culture
Try experiencing café culture, an important element of “Gochi-usa,” at the actual locations. In Europe:
- France: Café culture of leisurely enjoying coffee
- Germany: Afternoon “Kaffee und Kuchen” (coffee and cake time)
- Hungary: Historic café house culture
Karuizawa also has many historic tea houses and dedicated cafés.
Experience Local Food Culture
Enjoying regional specialties and local cuisine is a major travel pleasure:
- Alsace Region: Choucroute, Tarte Flambée, Alsatian Wine
- Germany: Sausage, Pretzel, Beer
- Karuizawa: Highland vegetables, Jam, Craft Beer
Souvenir Selection
Souvenirs matching the “Gochi-usa” worldview:
- Rabbit motif accessories
- Antique-style dishware
- Local sweets and jam
- Herbal tea or coffee
- Postcards and photo books featuring half-timbered architecture
Conclusion: A Journey to Experience the “Gochi-usa” World
The beautiful European towns that served as models for “Is the Order a Rabbit?” are wonderful places that deepen the work’s appeal. From the timber-framed and stone-paved streets of Colmar and Strasbourg in France to Rothenburg in Germany—landscapes that seem to have stepped out of the work offer visitors an incredible experience.
Meanwhile, Karuizawa is an excellent option within Japan. “Usagi no Mori Karuizawa Branch,” with its name and atmosphere, has become a special place for “Gochi-usa” fans. Karuizawa, blending European-style streetscapes with beautiful Japanese nature, is a charming spot where you can easily experience the “Gochi-usa” worldview.
Regardless of which you visit, what matters most is love for the work and respect for the local culture and people. By respecting manners and fully savoring the unique charm of each location, spend special time immersed in the “Gochi-usa” world.
Beautiful streetscapes, the warm atmosphere of cafés, heartwarming encounters. Rediscovering the wonderful everyday life that “Gochi-usa” teaches us through actual travel—that is the greatest joy of visiting model locations.
Why not set out on a journey to the “half-timbered town”? You’ll surely experience part of the warm daily life that Cocoa and her friends share.
