“Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day” Complete Pilgrimage Guide to Sacred Sites in Saitama: A Journey Through Famous Places in Chichibu
“Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day” (commonly known as “Anohana”), broadcast in 2011, captured the hearts of many anime fans. The setting for this moving work is Chichibu City, Saitama Prefecture. This article thoroughly explains detailed information about major spots, access methods, efficient touring routes, and tips for enjoying your pilgrimage to the sacred sites for those planning an Anohana pilgrimage.
What is Anohana? The Appeal of the Work and Its Relationship with Chichibu
“Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day” is an original television anime work produced by A-1 Pictures. The story begins when Menma (Meiko Honma), a member of the childhood friend group of six called the “Super Peace Busters,” appears as a ghost before the protagonist Jintan (Jinta Yadomi) several years after she died in an accident.
Why Was Chichibu Chosen as the Setting?
The reason Chichibu was chosen as the setting is that the production staff actually visited Chichibu City and were captivated by its beautiful natural environment and nostalgic townscape. Many real places appear in the work, and the charm of Chichibu is fully expressed through detailed background depictions.
In response to the work’s popularity, Chichibu City has also established a system to welcome pilgrims to sacred sites, with anime character panels and information boards installed throughout the city. Collaboration with local shopping districts is also active, with fans and the community coming together to promote the work.
Preparation for Pilgrimage: Basic Information and Access Methods
Access to Chichibu
Access by Train
- About 80 minutes from Ikebukuro Station on the Seibu Chichibu Line “Limited Express Red Arrow”
- About 120 minutes from Ikebukuro Station on the Seibu Chichibu Line “Local Train”
- About 90 minutes from Kumagaya Station via JR Hachiko Line and Chichibu Railway
Access by Car
- About 30 minutes from Kan-Etsu Expressway “Hanazono IC” via National Route 140
- About 50 minutes from Ken-O Expressway “Sayama Hidaka IC” via National Route 299
Best Time for Pilgrimage
Chichibu has beauty in all four seasons, but the particularly recommended times are as follows:
Spring (April to May)
The moss phlox at Hitsujiyama Park is in full bloom, and you can enjoy the pilgrimage along with flowers that appear in the work. However, during moss phlox season it gets crowded, so early action is recommended.
Autumn (October to November)
The autumn leaves are beautiful, and the comfortable climate is ideal for walking pilgrimages. The period around the Chichibu Night Festival (December) is particularly lively.
Summer (July to August)
You can experience the very season that was the setting for the work. However, Chichibu is a basin, so heat countermeasures are necessary.
Checklist of Items to Bring
- Sacred site map (available at Chichibu City Tourism Association or smartphone app)
- Camera/smartphone (don’t forget charger)
- Drinks and light snacks (due to extensive walking)
- Comfortable shoes (many slopes and stairs)
- Sunscreen and hat (summer)
- Rain gear (prepare for weather changes)
Must-See! Detailed Guide to Major Sacred Site Spots
1. Jorinji Temple
Scenes in the Work
As the location of the Super Peace Busters’ secret base, it becomes an important setting in the story. It’s a place filled with memories of Menma and plays an important role in the climax scene.
Highlights
- Stairs behind the main hall: Scenery exactly as in the anime
- Atmosphere of the grounds: Immerse yourself in the world of the work in a quiet space
- Cherry blossom trees: Beautiful cherry blossoms bloom in spring
Access
About 25 minutes on foot from Seibu-Chichibu Station, or about 20 minutes on foot from Chichibu Railway “Chichibu Station.” You need to climb a slope, so visit with time to spare.
Manners
Jorinji is an actual temple used as a place of worship. To avoid disturbing worshippers, observe quietly and take photos only within permitted areas.
2. Chichibu Bridge
Scenes in the Work
A symbolic bridge that appears many times in the opening video and main story. It’s used in memorable scenes such as the Super Peace Busters members walking.
Highlights
- View from the bridge: Panoramic view of the Arakawa River and Chichibu mountains
- Sunset scenery: Beauty exactly like the anime atmosphere
- Bridge design: Beautiful arched structure
Photography Points
You can photograph from the same angle as the anime near the center of the bridge. However, be very careful about safety as there is traffic.
Access
About 10 minutes on foot from Chichibu Station. Easily accessible location close to the city center.
3. Hitsujiyama Park
Scenes in the Work
Appears in important scenes such as when Menma and Jintan watch fireworks. Located on high ground, it’s a scenic spot overlooking Chichibu city.
Highlights
- Moss Phlox Hill: About 400,000 moss phlox plants bloom from mid-April to early May
- Observatory: Panoramic view of Chichibu city and Mt. Buko
- Expansive park: Ideal for picnics and leisurely time
Access
About 20 minutes on foot from Seibu-Chichibu Station, or about 15 minutes on foot from Yokoze Station. There are slopes, so taxi use is also recommended for those without confidence in physical strength.
Admission Fee
Fee only during moss phlox blooming period (300 yen for general admission), free during other periods.
4. Chichibu Shrine
Scenes in the Work
Appears as a shrine representing Chichibu, such as in Chichibu Night Festival scenes.
Highlights
- Main hall in gongen-zukuri style: Designated as National Important Cultural Property
- Carvings attributed to Hidari Jingoro: “Tsunagi no Ryu,” “Kosodate no Tora,” etc.
- Chichibu Night Festival: One of Japan’s three great float festivals held December 2-3
Access
Very accessible location, about 3 minutes on foot from Chichibu Railway “Chichibu Station.”
5. Old Chichibu Bridge
Scenes in the Work
Appears in everyday scenes as a bridge near Jintan’s house.
Highlights
- Retro bridge structure: Historical appearance
- Riverside walking path: Ideal for leisurely walks
Access
About 15 minutes on foot from Chichibu Station. Walking distance from Chichibu Bridge.
6. Chichibu Muse Park
Scenes in the Work
Various places within the park appear, including the observatory and walking paths.
Highlights
- Observatory: Spectacular view overlooking the Chichibu basin
- Skyroad: 1.5km tree-lined path
- Music hall: Various events are held
Access
About 20 minutes by bus from Seibu-Chichibu Station. As it’s a vast park, bicycle rental is also recommended.
7. Model for Jintan’s House
Scenes in the Work
Appears frequently as the protagonist Jintan’s home.
Cautions
Since an actual private residence is the model, absolutely avoid entering the property or photographing from close range. Keep it to viewing from a distance from the road and respect the privacy of the residents.
Access
Located in a residential area about 15 minutes on foot from Chichibu Station.
8. Anohana Chaya (Pilgrimage Base)
An “Anohana” goods shop and rest area near Chichibu Shrine. Ideal for purchasing official goods, obtaining sacred site maps, and gathering pilgrimage information.
Business Hours
10:00-17:00 (Closed: Irregular holidays)
Access
About 5 minutes on foot from Chichibu Railway “Chichibu Station”
Efficient Pilgrimage Model Courses
Half-Day Course (About 4 hours)
9:00 Arrive at Seibu-Chichibu Station
↓ 5 minutes on foot
9:05 Information gathering and goods purchase at Anohana Chaya
↓ 3 minutes on foot
9:30 Visit Chichibu Shrine
↓ 10 minutes on foot
10:00 Explore around Chichibu Bridge and Old Chichibu Bridge
↓ 20 minutes on foot
11:00 Visit Jorinji Temple
↓ 25 minutes on foot
12:00 Lunch around Chichibu Station
↓ 20 minutes on foot
13:00 Explore Hitsujiyama Park
Full Day Course (About 8 hours)
9:00 Arrive at Seibu-Chichibu Station
↓ 5 minutes on foot
9:05 Information gathering at Anohana Chaya
↓ 3 minutes on foot
9:30 Visit Chichibu Shrine
↓ 10 minutes on foot
10:00 Explore around Chichibu Bridge and Old Chichibu Bridge
↓ 15 minutes on foot
10:45 Around Jintan’s house (from a distance)
↓ 20 minutes on foot
11:30 Visit Jorinji Temple
↓ 25 minutes on foot
12:30 Lunch around Chichibu Station
↓ 20 minutes on foot
14:00 Explore Hitsujiyama Park
↓ 20 minutes by bus
16:00 Chichibu Muse Park
↓ 20 minutes by bus
17:30 Souvenir shopping around Seibu-Chichibu Station
Leisurely 2-Day Course
Day 1
Tour sacred sites in the city center and stay at Chichibu Onsen at night. Enjoy the pilgrimage leisurely while savoring local gourmet food.
Day 2
Combine suburban sacred sites with Chichibu tourist spots (Nagatoro, Mitsumine Shrine, etc.) to comprehensively experience Chichibu’s charm.
Points for Enjoying Pilgrimage More
Review the Anime Before Visiting
By reviewing the work before pilgrimage, the emotion at each spot is multiplied. Confirming which locations specific scenes were depicted at allows you to immerse yourself more deeply in the work’s worldview.
Participate in Pilgrimage Notebooks and Stamp Rallies
The Chichibu City Tourism Association and local shopping districts regularly hold “Anohana”-related stamp rallies and events. Participating in these makes the pilgrimage more enjoyable and provides perks like limited goods.
Enjoy Local Gourmet Food
Along with the pilgrimage, savor Chichibu’s specialty gourmet food:
- Chichibu Soba: Using fragrant local buckwheat flour
- Waraji Katsudon: Chichibu specialty featuring large cutlets
- Miso Poteto: Steamed potatoes with sweet and spicy miso sauce
- Chichibu Horumon: Taste loved locally
- Chichibu Whisky: Famous for Ichiro’s Malt
Information Sharing on SNS
Posting on SNS using hashtags like “#AnohanaPilgrimage” and “#Chichibu” allows you to interact with other fans and exchange new discoveries and information.
Target Seasonal Limited Events
Various events are held throughout the year in Chichibu:
- Chichibu Night Festival (December 2-3): One of Japan’s three great float festivals
- Moss Phlox Festival (mid-April to early May): Moss phlox at Hitsujiyama Park in full bloom
- Ryusei Festival (October): Festival of handmade rocket fireworks
Visiting during these event periods allows you to enjoy both sacred site pilgrimage and Chichibu’s traditional culture.
Pilgrimage Manners and Rules
No Entry to Private Property
Among the locations appearing in the work, some places are modeled on general residences or private property. At these locations:
- Absolutely do not enter property without permission
- Do not make loud noises
- Always take garbage with you
- Avoid visiting early morning or late night
Photography Precautions
- Check photography prohibited areas at shrines and temples
- Be considerate not to include other tourists or locals
- Photograph in places that don’t obstruct traffic
- Judge tripod use based on surrounding conditions
Consideration for Local Residents
Chichibu City warmly welcomes pilgrims to sacred sites, but this is because visitors have good manners. Don’t forget gratitude to local people and be mindful of moderate behavior.
Accommodation and Access Information in Chichibu
Recommended Accommodation
Hot Spring Inns
- Mangan no Yu: Hot spring facility where day bathing is also possible
- Chichibu Yumoto Buko Onsen: Hot spring close to Chichibu city
- Natural Farm City Farm Hotel: Resort surrounded by nature
Business Hotels
- Hotel Route Inn Chichibu: Near Seibu-Chichibu Station
- Chichibu Hotel: Close to Chichibu Shrine
Guesthouses
- Chichibu Guest House: For backpackers
- Chichibu Kotabi: Guesthouse renovated from old folk house
Bicycle Rental Information
Bicycle rental services are provided at multiple locations in Chichibu City:
- Seibu-Chichibu Station Tourist Information Center: Electric assist bicycles available
- Chichibu Railway Chichibu Station: Regular bicycles
- Fee: About 500-1,500 yen per day
Using bicycles allows efficient touring of places that take time on foot. However, electric assist bicycles are recommended due to many slopes.
Surrounding Tourist Spots
Tourist spots in Chichibu to visit along with sacred site pilgrimage:
Nagatoro
Scenic area about 20 minutes by Chichibu Railway. Famous for line boat rides and rock formations, where you can fully enjoy natural beauty.
Mitsumine Shrine
One of the Kanto region’s leading power spots located on a mountain at 1,100m elevation. Mysterious atmosphere and spectacular views are attractive. About 75 minutes by bus from Seibu-Chichibu Station.
Mt. Buko
A mountain that can be called the symbol of Chichibu. Mountain climbing is possible, and the view from the summit is exceptional.
Chichibu Festival Hall
Facility where you can learn about the history and culture of the Chichibu Night Festival. Full-size floats and kasaboko are on display.
Pilgrimage Items and Clothing
Recommended Clothing by Season
Spring (March to May)
- Long-sleeved shirt + light jacket
- Something to wear as mornings and evenings are cold
- Hat as sunlight becomes strong
Summer (June to August)
- Breathable clothing
- Sunscreen and hat essential
- Extra drinks for hydration
- Insect repellent spray
Autumn (September to November)
- Long-sleeved shirt + cardigan or jacket
- Cold weather measures in November
- Early action as autumn foliage season gets crowded
Winter (December to February)
- Heavy winter clothing like down jacket
- Gloves, scarf, hat
- Non-slip shoes as it sometimes snows
Essential Items
- Smartphone (map app, camera function)
- Mobile battery
- Drinks (few vending machines outside city center)
- Small change (for bus, vending machines)
- Sacred site map (convenient to have paper version too)
- Bandages (due to long walking)
Souvenir Information in Chichibu
Anohana-Related Goods
- Anohana Chaya: Official goods, limited products
- Chichibu Anime Tourism Base Facility: Various goods
- Local Shopping District: Collaboration products, etc.
Chichibu Specialty Products
- Chichibu Meisen: Traditional silk fabric
- Chichibu Maple Syrup: 100% domestic maple sap
- Chichibu Mochi: Local Japanese sweets
- Chichibu Whisky-Related Products: Mini bottles, etc.
- Chichibu Soba: Dried noodles or fresh soba
Conclusion: Memorable Experiences Through Anohana Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Pilgrimage to the sacred sites of “Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day” is a special experience beyond ordinary sightseeing. While immersing yourself in the work’s worldview, touching Chichibu’s beautiful nature and culture, new discoveries and emotions await.
Points for successful sacred site pilgrimage:
- Thorough advance preparation: Confirm access methods, pilgrimage routes, business hours, etc.
- Follow manners: Don’t forget consideration for local residents
- Allow plenty of time: Don’t rush, slowly savor the work’s worldview
- Enjoy local charm: Experience gourmet food, hot springs, and other tourist spots
- Record memories: Preserve memories in photos and diaries
Chichibu continues to be a special place for “Anohana” fans. Even now, more than 10 years after the work was broadcast, many fans visit and there are new encounters and discoveries.
Why not visit Chichibu and experience the world of “Anohana”? It will surely become a wonderful memory that stays in your heart.
The town of Chichibu sincerely welcomes your visit. Create your own story in the place where Menma and the Super Peace Busters spent time.
