The bus stop in Ochiai, Miyagawa Town, Hida City, has become a pilgrimage destination visited by many fans as a sacred site from “Your Name,” the blockbuster film by director Makoto Shinkai. This location, which appears in the scene where the protagonist Taki searches for Mitsuha together with his senior Okudera and Shoji, is known as a filming location where you can perfectly recreate the movie’s memorable scenes.
In this article, we provide detailed information on everything you need to enjoy a perfect pilgrimage to the sacred site, from necessary information for visiting the bus stop, to photography tips and nearby sacred sites.
About the Bus Stop in Ochiai, Miyagawa Town, Hida City
Scenes from the Movie
The bus stop in Ochiai, Miyagawa Town, Hida City plays an important role in the middle of “Your Name.” It’s the scene where Taki, Okudera, and Shoji, who came to Hida from Tokyo, stop by on their journey to find “Itomori Town” where Mitsuha lives.
In the film, the memorable scene depicts the three sitting side by side on a bench in the bus stop’s waiting area, resting with tired expressions. In the background, the mountains of Hida and rural landscape spread out, making it an important location that symbolizes the countryside atmosphere that is the setting of the story.
This scene depicts Taki desperately searching for Mitsuha based on her memories, and is known as a touching scene that remains in the hearts of many fans.
Characteristics and Current Status of the Bus Stop
The bus stop in Ochiai, Miyagawa Town, Hida City is characterized by its distinctive roof and waiting area. The small but unique triangular roof structure is faithfully reproduced in the film, and visitors can immediately recognize it.
As an important note, the bus route service at this bus stop was discontinued in October 2015, and it no longer functions as an actual bus stop. However, the waiting area building remains as it was, and after the film’s release, it has become a place where many fans visit as a pilgrimage site.
One distinctive feature is that a small postal mailbox, now rare, is attached to the wall of the bus stop. This mailbox also appears in the film, and you can feel the attention to detail of director Makoto Shinkai, who reproduced every aspect of the film.
Inside the waiting area, there is a wooden bench where you can sit and take photographs just like in the movie scene. When you sit on the bench, you can view the surroundings from the same perspective as the characters in the film, and you can immerse yourself in the world of the work.
Detailed Access Methods
Route from the Nearest Station
The nearest station to the bus stop in Ochiai, Miyagawa Town, Hida City is Sumikawa Station on the JR Takayama Main Line.
Walking from Sumikawa Station:
- Travel time: Approximately 5 to 7 minutes
- Distance: Approximately 400 meters
- Route: Exit Sumikawa Station and proceed in the left direction (northward) along National Route 360
Sumikawa Station is an unmanned station and small, but it is used by many fans as a base for pilgrimage to the sacred sites of “Your Name.” Since it’s within walking distance from the station, it’s a major advantage that you can visit without a car.
Access from Hida Furukawa Station
Many pilgrims use Hida Furukawa Station, the central station of the Hida area, as their base. This is because there are many other sacred sites from “Your Name” in the areas around Hida Furukawa Station.
When using the train:
- From Hida Furukawa Station to Sumikawa Station: Approximately 5 minutes on the JR Takayama Main Line (1 station)
- Fare: Approximately 200 yen
- Frequency: Approximately 1 to 2 times per hour (varies depending on time of day)
When using a taxi:
- Travel time: Approximately 15 to 20 minutes
- Fare: Approximately 2,500 to 3,500 yen
- Merit: You can go directly to the bus stop, allowing effective use of time
There is a taxi stand in front of Hida Furukawa Station, and some companies offer taxi plans for pilgrimage sites. If you want to efficiently visit multiple sacred sites, using a taxi is recommended.
Car Access and Parking Information
If you visit by personal car or rental car, the bus stop is located along National Route 360.
Points to note:
- There is no dedicated parking lot
- The area around the bus stop is on a road with unexpectedly heavy traffic
- Parking on the roadside is dangerous, so it is recommended that you park in a safe place a short distance away and walk to the stop
- It is necessary to be considerate not to cause trouble to nearby residences or farmland
It’s the safest method to park your car around Sumikawa Station and walk to the bus stop from there.
Photography Points and Tips
How to Photograph and Recreate Movie Scenes
Here are the points for perfectly recreating the movie scenes at the bus stop in Ochiai, Miyagawa Town, Hida City.
Photography on the bench:
In the movie, the memorable scene shows Taki, Okudera, and Shoji sitting side by side on a bench. If you visit with three people, sit in the same way and create slightly tired expressions to capture the atmosphere of the movie.
Angle points:
- Frontal photography: Photograph the entire waiting area of the bus stop
- Diagonal photography: An angle that emphasizes the distinctive shape of the roof
- Photography from inside: Photograph the outside scenery from the perspective of sitting on the bench
Using the background:
Behind the bus stop, the mountains of Hida and rural landscape spread out. By making use of this natural and abundant background, you can more faithfully recreate the world view of the movie.
Times Best Suited for Photography
Early morning (6:00 to 8:00):
- Merit: Few people, allowing leisurely photography
- Merit: The soft morning light is beautiful
- Merit: Vehicle traffic is relatively light
- Note: In winter, sunrise is late, so it may be dark
Morning (9:00 to 11:00):
- Merit: Bright and easy to photograph
- Merit: Light conditions similar to movie scenes
- Note: Weekends see an increase in pilgrimage visitors during this time
Evening (4:00 PM to 6:00 PM):
- Merit: Beautiful sunset
- Merit: You can take dramatic photos
- Note: Sunset times vary greatly depending on the season
Since the movie scene is set during daytime, photography during bright hours is recommended. However, the atmosphere at dusk is also very beautiful and has its own unique charm.
Photography Precautions
Traffic safety:
National Route 360 has unexpectedly heavy vehicle traffic, especially large trucks. Be careful not to step onto the road while absorbed in photography.
Consideration for neighbors:
- Keep conversations and noise at a moderate level
- Do not enter nearby residences or farmland
- Always take any trash with you
- Avoid occupying the space for long periods and show consideration to other visitors
Observance of manners:
Some manner violations have become problematic due to the sacred site pilgrimage boom. Remember that sacred site pilgrimage is only possible through the understanding and cooperation of the local residents, and visit while observing proper etiquette.
Attractions in Each Season
Spring (March to May)
Spring in Hida is a beautiful season of fresh greenery with snow melt. The rural landscape around the bus stop becomes vividly green, allowing you to enjoy scenery full of vitality.
From late April to early May, cherry blossoms in the surrounding area reach their peak. While not appearing in the movie, photos combining cherry blossoms and the bus stop are also popular.
Note: Right after snow melt, roads may be wet, so be careful with your footing.
Summer (June to August)
Summer in Hida is surrounded by deep green, allowing you to enjoy the landscape most similar to the movie’s scenes. The contrast between the lush green rural landscape and the mountains is beautiful, making it ideal for photography.
Recommended points:
- The season closest to the movie’s atmosphere
- Long daylight hours allow ample time for photography
- Neighboring other sacred sites is easier in this climate
Note: The sun is strong, so precautions against heat stroke and sunburn are necessary. Additionally, visitor numbers increase during summer vacation.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn in Hida features beautiful fall foliage, with the bus stop area surrounded by trees in color. Mid-October to early November is the peak foliage season.
The contrast between rice fields tinged golden and fall foliage is a spectacular view unique to this season. While different from the movie’s seasonal setting, you can take photos capturing the beauty of Japanese autumn.
Note: The foliage season results in crowding throughout the Hida area. Early morning visits are recommended.
Winter (December to February)
Winter in Hida features beautiful snow scenery, with the bus stop taking on a fantastical appearance covered in snow. You can enjoy a serene landscape close to the atmosphere of the movie’s climactic scene.
Appeal:
- The beauty of the snow-covered bus stop
- Fewer visitors allow unhurried photography
- A special atmosphere unique to winter
Notes:
- Snow may make walking access difficult
- Cold weather protection is essential
- Be careful of icy road surfaces
- Sunset is early, limiting photography time
Nearby Sacred Sites
When you visit the bus stop in Ochiai, Miyagawa Town, Hida City, be sure to visit other nearby sacred sites as well.
Hida Furukawa Station
It appears as the station where Taki arrives from Tokyo. The exterior of the station building, ticket gates, platforms and other areas allow you to faithfully recreate scenes from the movie.
Access: Approximately 5 minutes by train from Ochiai bus stop, or approximately 15 minutes by car
Ketao Wakamiya Shrine
This shrine is said to be one of the models for the “Miyazu Shrine” that appears in the movie. The impressive long stone steps evoke the scene where Mitsuha performs a sacred dance as a shrine maiden.
Access: Approximately 20 minutes walk from Hida Furukawa Station
Hida City Library
The library appears in the scene where Taki and his companions research materials about Itomori Town. You can actually browse materials in the library (only during open hours).
Access: Approximately 10 minutes walk from Hida Furukawa Station
Hida Furukawa Townscape
The white-walled earthen warehouse street and the old townscape along Seto River appear throughout the movie as background scenery. Simply strolling through the charming townscape allows you to feel the world view of the movie.
Access: Approximately 5 minutes walk from Hida Furukawa Station
Pilgrimage Plan Proposals
Half-Day Course (approximately 4 hours)
9:00 Arrival at Hida Furukawa Station
9:15 Photography at Hida Furukawa Station building
9:30 Move to Sumikawa Station by train
9:45 Arrival at Ochiai bus stop and photography (1 hour)
10:45 Return to Hida Furukawa Station from Sumikawa Station
11:15 Visit Ketao Wakamiya Shrine and photography
12:30 Stroll through Hida Furukawa townscape and lunch
This course allows you to efficiently visit major sacred sites.
Full-Day Course (approximately 8 hours)
In addition to the half-day course, also visit:
- Hida City Library (scene of research)
- Railroad crossing near Katamachi Clinic (scene where Taki runs)
- Ajidokoro Furukawa (lunch spot)
- Stroll along the Seto River
With a full day, you can unhurriedly visit each spot and fully enjoy the atmosphere of Hida.
Taxi Sightseeing Plan
Multiple taxi companies in Hida City offer plans specifically for “Your Name” pilgrimage.
Merits:
- Visit multiple spots efficiently
- Drivers provide detailed explanations
- Less affected by weather
- No need to carry luggage
Fare: Approximately 10,000 to 15,000 yen for 2-3 hours (varies by company)
Visitor Reviews and Experiences
Visitors to Ochiai bus stop have provided the following comments:
“I was moved by the landscape that was exactly as it appeared in the movie. When I sat on the bench and viewed the scenery from the same perspective, I felt I could understand Taki’s feelings a little.” (Woman in her 20s)
“The bus stop was smaller than I expected, but the surrounding rural landscape was truly beautiful, and I was able to immerse myself in the movie’s world. Since I visited early in the morning, I was able to have the quiet atmosphere all to myself.” (Man in his 30s)
“I visited with two friends and, like in the movie, we sat side by side and took photos. We were completely satisfied with the one-of-a-kind photo we were able to take.” (Woman in her 20s)
“I was surprised at the heavy vehicle traffic. It’s necessary to be careful not to get too absorbed in photography.” (Man in his 40s)
Accommodation Information in the Hida Area
To enjoy the pilgrimage at a leisurely pace, staying overnight in the Hida area is recommended.
Around Hida Furukawa
Inns and private lodgings:
The town of Hida Furukawa has many traditional Japanese inns and private lodgings. You can relax while enjoying local cuisine.
Business hotels:
Business hotels offering relatively affordable accommodation are also available. Some hotels offer plans specific to pilgrimage sites.
In Takayama City
Takayama City, approximately 15 minutes by train from Hida Furukawa, has more accommodation facilities. It’s also recommended to enjoy Takayama’s old townscape along with the pilgrimage.
Contribution to the Community and Sustainable Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Since the massive hit of “Your Name,” many pilgrims have visited the Hida area. This has been a major plus for the local economy, but it has also created challenges.
Consideration for the Community
What we who enjoy pilgrimage can do is:
Use local shops:
By using shops and restaurants in the Hida Furukawa shopping street, you can contribute to the local economy. Purchasing local specialties is also recommended.
Follow proper etiquette:
Remember that this is where residents live, and noise and nuisance behavior are absolutely prohibited. Be sure to avoid entering private land.
Environmental protection:
Always take your trash with you and protect the natural environment. It’s important to be considerate in order to preserve beautiful scenery for future generations.
Community Initiatives
Hida City is undertaking various initiatives to welcome pilgrims while aiming for sustainable tourism. Tourist information offices distribute pilgrimage maps and conduct manner awareness activities.
Summary: Experience the World of “Your Name” at Ochiai Bus Stop
The bus stop in Ochiai, Miyagawa Town, Hida City is a precious sacred site where you can experience memorable scenes from “Your Name.” Although it is a closed bus stop, this location, which preserves the movie’s world view intact, has become a special spot for many fans.
The convenience of access, just a 5-minute walk from Sumikawa Station, is also appealing, and you can easily visit by train. You can recreate the movie scenes by sitting on the bench, immerse yourself in the movie’s lingering impressions while gazing at the rural landscape around you.
When visiting, remember to prioritize traffic safety and community consideration, and enjoy the pilgrimage while following proper etiquette. By visiting nearby other sacred sites, you can experience the world of “Your Name” even more deeply.
Please see with your own eyes the beautiful Hida landscape that director Makoto Shinkai depicted carefully. The emotion you felt when you watched the movie will surely return.
