Zatsu Tabi -That’s Journey- Complete Guide to Tokyo Pilgrimage Sites
What is Zatsu Tabi? The Appeal of the Work and How to Enjoy Pilgrimage
“Zatsu Tabi -That’s Journey-” is a manga work by Kenta Ishizaka that depicts the protagonist Chie Saika traveling around Japan, enjoying tourist spots, hot springs, and local cuisine. It was adapted into a TV anime in 2022, and has gained popularity as a subject of pilgrimage tourism due to its faithful depiction of real tourist destinations.
Tokyo, as Japan’s capital, is a city with diverse attractions, and is featured in multiple episodes within Zatsu Tabi. The appeal lies in discovering new aspects of Tokyo through the work, from the public bath culture full of downtown atmosphere to urban tourist spots and hidden attractions.
Pilgrimage refers to actually visiting real locations that appear in works such as anime and manga. In the case of Zatsu Tabi, because the places are carefully researched and depicted based on locations the author actually visited, you can experience the same journey as the protagonist by making a pilgrimage with the work in hand.
List of Zatsu Tabi Pilgrimage Spots in Tokyo
Pilgrimage Sites in Taito Ward Area
Taito Ward is an area where Tokyo’s downtown culture remains strong, and serves as an important setting in Zatsu Tabi. Not only tourist areas centered around Asakusa, but also public baths and shopping districts beloved by locals appear frequently.
Asakusa Area
Asakusa is a representative tourist destination of Tokyo, with famous spots like Kaminarimon Gate and Sensoji Temple appearing in the work. The bustle of Nakamise Shopping Street and the atmosphere of old-fashioned shops are carefully depicted, and when you actually visit, you can experience the world of the work firsthand. In particular, the sweet shops and souvenir stores the protagonist stopped by in the work continue to operate unchanged to this day.
Public Bath Culture Pilgrimage Sites
Taito Ward has many historic public baths remaining, and episodes of public bath tours are depicted in Zatsu Tabi. Public baths with retro atmospheres like Jakotsu-yu and Akebono-yu play important roles as places embodying the work’s theme of “the extraordinary within the ordinary.”
Pilgrimage Sites in Sumida and Koto Ward Areas
Sumida and Koto wards are areas where old and new merge, centered around Tokyo Skytree. Zatsu Tabi introduces not only aspects as tourist destinations, but also places rooted in the daily lives of local residents.
Around Tokyo Skytree
Tokyo Skytree appears in the work as a landmark, with surrounding commercial facilities and downtown scenery depicted. Featuring shopping scenes at Solamachi and dining scenes at surrounding restaurants, the depictions are enjoyable from both tourist and local perspectives.
Fukagawa Area
The Fukagawa area of Koto Ward appears in the work as a place where downtown atmosphere and history remain. Local cuisine like Fukagawa-meshi and the scenery of alleyways where old townscapes remain help us rediscover Tokyo’s hidden charms.
Pilgrimage Sites in Bunkyo and Toshima Ward Areas
Bunkyo and Toshima wards are areas representing Tokyo’s cultural aspects. Zatsu Tabi depicts the quiet charm of these regions.
Korakuen/Koishikawa Area
Koishikawa Korakuen Garden and the area around Tokyo Dome appear in the work as oases within the city. The beauty of the gardens and rest scenes at surrounding restaurants express an atmosphere that is urban yet calm.
Ikebukuro Area
While Ikebukuro is one of Tokyo’s major terminal stations, in Zatsu Tabi it is depicted not as a tourist destination but as a transit point for travel and a place to enjoy local gourmet food. The introduction of shopping districts around the station and hidden famous restaurants is impressive.
Pilgrimage Sites in Shinjuku and Shibuya Ward Areas
Shinjuku and Shibuya wards are areas with diverse faces as central Tokyo. Zatsu Tabi sometimes depicts unexpected aspects of these regions.
Hidden Spots in Shinjuku
While Shinjuku has a strong image as an entertainment district, the work introduces lesser-known spots such as quiet shrines and old-fashioned shopping streets. Discoveries in places slightly away from urban hustle and bustle represent a perspective characteristic of Zatsu Tabi.
Yoyogi/Harajuku Area
Nature-rich spots like Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park appear in the work. Harajuku, a hub of youth culture, is sometimes depicted from the perspective of cafes and shops used by locals rather than as a tourist destination.
Hot Spring and Public Bath Pilgrimage Spots in Tokyo
One of Zatsu Tabi’s major themes is touring hot springs and public baths. Many facilities where you can enjoy natural hot springs and historic public baths exist throughout Tokyo, depicted as important elements in the work.
Natural Hot Spring Facilities in the City
Hot Spring Public Baths in Ota Ward
Ota Ward has distinctive hot springs called “black water” (kuroyu) welling up, with multiple hot spring public baths operating. Hot spring facilities appearing in the work are depicted as everyday places of relaxation beloved by local residents, with unpretentious charm that hasn’t been commercialized for tourism.
Hot Springs in Itabashi and Nerima Wards
Natural hot spring public baths also exist in the western 23 wards, introduced in Zatsu Tabi as precious spots where you can enjoy hot springs within the city. Community-based hot spring facilities are places where you can also enjoy interactions with locals.
The Appeal of Retro Public Baths
Retro public baths retaining a Showa-era atmosphere continue to operate throughout Tokyo. Many public baths have cultural asset-level value, with features like painted Mt. Fuji murals, tile decorations, and wooden architecture.
Zatsu Tabi carefully depicts the depth of public bath culture, including the architectural beauty of such baths, conversations at the bandai counter, and interactions with regular customers. When visiting as a pilgrimage, be sure to follow public bath rules and etiquette, and show consideration for local residents.
Tokyo Gourmet Pilgrimage
In Zatsu Tabi, local specialties and regional gourmet food appear as important elements. You can also enjoy restaurants and dishes that appeared in the work throughout Tokyo.
Downtown Gourmet
Monjayaki
Monjayaki centered in Tsukishima is representative commoner gourmet food of Tokyo. The work introduces how to cook monjayaki and local ways of eating it, making it worth visiting and experiencing firsthand.
Edomae Sushi and Tempura
Edomae sushi using seafood caught in Tokyo Bay and tempura showcasing artisan technique are representative Tokyo gourmet foods. Zatsu Tabi introduces not only high-end restaurants but also reasonably priced famous establishments frequented by locals.
Coffee Shop and Cafe Culture
Tokyo has diverse cafe culture from Showa-retro pure coffee shops to modern cafes. In the work, unique coffee shops appear as places to take a breath during travels. The appeal lies not only in coffee flavor but also in the shop atmosphere and conversations with owners.
Sweet Shops and Japanese Confections
Many long-established sweet shops remain in areas like Asakusa and Kagurazaka. Shops where you can enjoy seasonal Japanese sweets like anmitsu, shiratama, and kakigori are depicted as important spots in Zatsu Tabi.
Planning and Preparation for Pilgrimage
Creating an Efficient Pilgrimage Route
When touring Zatsu Tabi pilgrimage sites in Tokyo, it’s efficient to visit by grouping areas together. For example, plan by region, such as touring the downtown area centered on Taito Ward in one day, and visiting the eastern area of Sumida and Koto wards on another day.
Example One-Day Model Course (Downtown Area)
- Morning: Sensoji Temple and Nakamise Shopping Street tour
- Lunch: Downtown gourmet around Asakusa
- Afternoon: Public bath tour in Taito Ward
- Evening: Ueno Park area tour
- Dinner: Meal in Ueno/Okachimachi area
Items to Bring
- Original manga or anime materials: Essential for accurately identifying pilgrimage sites
- Camera/smartphone: For recording. Note photography-prohibited locations
- Map apps: For efficient movement using Google Maps, etc.
- Public bath set: Towel, soap, etc. (if visiting public baths)
- Cash: Many public baths and small stores accept cash only
- Comfortable shoes: Anticipating walking all day
Choosing When to Visit
Tokyo pilgrimage is possible year-round, but each season has different appeals.
Spring (March-May): Cherry blossom season makes Ueno Park and along the Sumida River beautiful, enjoyable overlapping with spring scenes in the work. Note crowds due to many tourists.
Summer (June-August): Optimal season for public bath touring. Post-bath after a hot day is exceptional. However, heatstroke prevention is essential.
Autumn (September-November): Mild climate optimal for walking. Gardens are beautiful during autumn foliage season.
Winter (December-February): Season when hot springs and public baths feel especially good. Asakusa has a special atmosphere during year-end and New Year.
Pilgrimage Manners and Points of Attention
Consideration for Local Residents
Many Zatsu Tabi pilgrimage sites are everyday places not commercialized for tourism. Pay attention to the following points:
- Noise in residential areas: Act quietly in residential neighborhoods, refraining from loud conversations
- No trespassing on private property: Even at photography spots, don’t enter private property
- Consideration in shops: Avoid just photographing without buying anything; use the establishment when possible
- Public bath manners: Learn public bath rules in advance so as not to inconvenience regular customers
Photography Precautions
- Confirm photography-prohibited locations: Many places prohibit photography, such as shrines/temples and inside public baths
- Consideration to avoid capturing people: Respect other customers’ privacy
- Get permission at stores: Always obtain permission when photographing at restaurants or shops
- Consideration when posting to SNS: Be careful about publishing location information, showing consideration not to cause crowds
Basic Manners When Using Public Baths and Hot Springs
- Wash your body before bathing: Always wash your body before entering the bath
- Don’t put towels in the bath: Place towel on head or outside the bathtub
- Avoid long-term occupation: Show consideration for other customers during busy times
- Check tattoo policies: Some facilities prohibit bathing with tattoos, so check in advance
- Photography strictly forbidden: Never photograph inside public baths or hot springs
Rediscovering Tokyo’s Hidden Charms
The appeal of Zatsu Tabi lies in spotlighting not only famous tourist destinations but also places locals use daily. While Tokyo is a world-class metropolis, it is also a precious place where traditional Japanese scenery remains, including downtown culture, public bath culture, and shopping districts.
The Appeal of Shopping Districts
Tokyo has numerous shopping districts, each with its own character. The work sometimes depicts shopping at local shopping districts and conversations with shop owners. You can enjoy the warmth and specialization unique to individual shops, which large chain stores lack.
Seasonal Events and Festivals
Tokyo has many traditional festivals, such as Asakusa’s Sanja Matsuri and Kanda Myojin’s Kanda Matsuri. Zatsu Tabi sometimes features such regional events, and timing your pilgrimage with festival periods allows for deeper experience of regional culture.
Parks and Nature
While Tokyo has an urban image, there are many nature-rich parks such as Ueno Park, Yoyogi Park, and Inokashira Park. In the work, rest scenes in such parks and enjoying seasonal flowers are depicted, playing important roles as healing spots within the city.
Access Information and Transportation
Using Public Transportation
Using public transportation is most convenient for Tokyo pilgrimage.
JR Yamanote Line: Connects major areas in a loop, convenient for access to many pilgrimage sites
Tokyo Metro/Toei Subway: Optimal for movement to detailed areas. Consider using day passes
Toei Bus: Convenient for access to places without subway service, such as downtown areas
Economical Tickets
- Tokyo Metro 24-Hour Ticket: Unlimited rides for 24 hours at 600 yen (as of 2024)
- Toei Marugoto Kippu: All-day unlimited Toei subway, bus, and streetcar
- Tokyo Free Kippu: All-day unlimited JR, subway, and Toei bus
When touring multiple pilgrimage sites in one day, using tickets can save on transportation costs.
Using Rental Bicycles
In relatively flat areas like downtown, using share cycles is also convenient. Multiple services like Docomo Bike Share are available, useful for movement to detailed locations and experiencing touring the city by bicycle as in the work.
Tokyo Tourism to Enjoy Along with Pilgrimage
Along with Zatsu Tabi pilgrimage, you can enjoy other Tokyo tourist spots.
Art Museums and Museums
Around Ueno Park, there are numerous cultural facilities including Tokyo National Museum, National Museum of Nature and Science, and Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum. Stopping by between pilgrimages allows for more fulfilling Tokyo tourism.
Tokyo Night View Spots
Tokyo has many spots where you can enjoy beautiful night views, such as Tokyo Skytree, Tokyo Tower, and Roppongi Hills. Plans to enjoy night views after daytime pilgrimage are also recommended.
Tsukiji/Toyosu Market
Tsukiji Outer Market and Toyosu Market, where you can enjoy fresh seafood, are unmissable spots for gourmet lovers. You can deeply enjoy “food,” which is a theme of Zatsu Tabi.
Pilgrimage Using Digital Tools
Using Pilgrimage Apps
Using dedicated pilgrimage apps like “Butai Meguri” allows you to make pilgrimages while comparing scenes from the work with real scenery. There are also GPS-based check-in functions, allowing you to keep visitation records.
Information Gathering on SNS
Searching hashtags like “#ZatsuTabi” and “#ZatsuTabiPilgrimage” on Twitter or Instagram provides the latest information from other pilgrims. You can also obtain information about business hour changes and limited-time events.
Google Maps My Maps Function
Registering pilgrimage sites you plan to visit in Google Maps My Maps allows for efficient route planning. It’s also convenient for progress management, such as checking off places you’ve visited.
Accommodation and Goods Purchasing
Accommodation Areas Convenient for Pilgrimage
When touring Tokyo pilgrimage sites over multiple days, choosing accommodation locations is also important.
Ueno/Asakusa Area: Close to downtown pilgrimage sites with many relatively reasonable hotels
Shinjuku/Ikebukuro Area: Good transportation access, convenient for access to various parts of the city
Around Tokyo Station: Good access to various JR lines, enabling efficient movement
Using capsule hotels or guesthouses allows you to keep accommodation costs down while visiting more spots.
Purchasing Related Goods
At large bookstores and anime shops in Tokyo, you can purchase Zatsu Tabi’s original manga, anime Blu-rays, and related goods. Purchasing work merchandise as a memento of pilgrimage is also recommended.
Summary: Discovering Tokyo’s New Charms Through Zatsu Tabi
Pilgrimage to Zatsu Tabi -That’s Journey- sites in Tokyo provides a deep Tokyo experience different from mere sightseeing. By visiting not only famous tourist destinations but also public baths, shopping districts, and restaurants that locals use daily, you can rediscover Tokyo’s multilayered charms.
Through pilgrimage, the greatest appeal is being able to re-experience the work’s world view while touching Tokyo’s actual culture, history, and people’s lives. Downtown warmth, the depth of public bath culture, the deliciousness of local gourmet food, and discovering the extraordinary lurking within casual everyday life. All of these are experiences obtainable through Zatsu Tabi pilgrimage.
When making your pilgrimage, try walking slowly through Tokyo’s streets while showing consideration and manners toward locals. Small discoveries and encounters that would be overlooked in rushed sightseeing are surely waiting for you.
With the original work in hand, enjoy Tokyo’s “Zatsu Tabi” just like the protagonist Chie Saika. Happenings that don’t go according to plan and unexpected discoveries are the real pleasures of travel. Encounters with warm-hearted downtown culture, historic public baths, and delicious gourmet food remaining in the metropolis of Tokyo will make your Tokyo tourism special.
