“Saekano: How to Raise a Boring Girlfriend” Series Complete Pilgrimage Guide for Saitama Prefecture | Thorough Explanation of All Spots in Wako City
The popular light novel series “Saekano: How to Raise a Boring Girlfriend” by Fumiaki Maruto is primarily set in the Tokyo metropolitan area centered around Toshima Ward, but Wako City in Saitama Prefecture is also an important pilgrimage site visited by many fans. This article provides a thorough explanation of pilgrimage spots in Saitama Prefecture with detailed access information based on actual visit experiences.
Why Wako City, Saitama Prefecture Became a “Saekano” Pilgrimage Site
Appearance as “Wago City” in the Series
Wako City, Saitama Prefecture appears in episodes 5-6 of the anime version of “Saekano: How to Raise a Boring Girlfriend” under the name “Wago City.” This name change is a consideration to avoid using actual place names as-is, but the station structure and surrounding scenery faithfully reproduce Wako City Station, making it an instantly recognizable pilgrimage site for fans.
Setting for Utaha Kasumigaoka-senpai’s Novel “Koisuru Metronome”
Wako City holds special significance as it is set as the location for “Koisuru Metronome,” the debut work by popular character Utaha Kasumigaoka-senpai (pen name: Utako Kasumi). Utaha-senpai and protagonist Tomoya Aki have various memories in Wako City, and numerous scenes that serve as important turning points in the story are depicted here.
Excellent Access, About 15 Minutes from Ikebukuro
Wako City is a transportation hub served by Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line, Yurakucho Line, and Tobu Tojo Line. It’s about 15 minutes from Ikebukuro Station on the Fukutoshin Line with no transfers required, making it easy to combine with pilgrimage routes including Tokyo pilgrimage sites (around Zoshigaya, etc.).
Detailed Pilgrimage Spots Around Wako City Station
Wako City Station (“Wago City Station” in the Anime)
Appearance Scenes: Anime Episode 5, Episode 6, Season 2 Episode 1, etc.
Wako City Station is the central location for “Saekano” pilgrimage. The area around the south exit of the station primarily appears, depicted multiple times as the station Utaha-senpai uses for commuting to school.
Points Inside the Station
- Around the Ticket Gates: The anime features multiple scenes of Utaha-senpai passing through the ticket gates. It’s drawn in almost the same composition as the actual Wako City Station ticket gate layout.
- Tobu Tojo Line Platform: Scenes waiting for trains and conversations on the platform appear. Even the positions of platform pillars and information boards are faithfully reproduced.
- Station Name Signs: The “Wako City” station name sign is changed to “Wago City” in the anime, but the font and color scheme are exactly as in reality.
Photography Tips
When photographing inside the station, be careful not to disturb other users. Avoid commuting hours (weekdays 7:00-9:00, 17:00-19:00); weekend mornings or weekday afternoons are relatively less crowded. It’s good to inform station staff when photographing on platforms.
Wako City Station South Exit Rotary
Appearance Scene: Anime Season 2 Episode 1
The area around the rotary at the south exit is depicted in detail in Episode 1 of Season 2 (“Saekano: How to Raise a Boring Girlfriend ♭”). The layout of the bus terminal and taxi stand, and even the shapes of surrounding buildings are precisely reproduced, making it a standard photography spot for pilgrimage.
Surrounding Landmarks
- Rotary Plantings: Flowers are replanted seasonally, but the layout remains almost the same as during the anime broadcast.
- Station Building: The exterior of the station building adjacent to Wako City Station appears in the anime.
- Bus Stops: The layout of bus stops serving multiple bus routes is also faithfully depicted.
Gusto Wako City Ekimae Store
Appearance Scene: Anime Episode 5
The family restaurant “Gusto Wako City Ekimae Store,” located about a 2-minute walk from Wako City Station’s south exit, appears in scenes where Utaha-senpai and Tomoya converse. Not only the exterior but also the interior atmosphere is reflected in the series.
Notes When Visiting
Since this is an actual operating restaurant, when visiting for pilgrimage purposes, be sure to order food and be considerate not to disturb other customers. Limit exterior photography to shots from the road, and refrain from photographing inside the store as a courtesy.
Access: 2-minute walk from Wako City Station south exit
Business Hours: 24 hours (subject to change; confirmation recommended before visiting)
Near Seseragi Park
Appearance Scene: Anime Episode 6
The area around “Seseragi Park,” located about a 10-minute walk from Wako City Station, also appears in important scenes with Utaha-senpai and Tomoya. This park is a relaxation spot for local residents and a place to enjoy nature throughout the four seasons.
Park Features
- Stream (Seseragi): A stream that gives the park its name flows through it, and this waterside area is depicted in the anime.
- Walking Path: The maintained walking path is perfect for strolling, with multiple points where you can photograph from the same angles as backgrounds appearing in the anime.
- Benches: Benches within the park are used in scenes where characters sit and converse.
Access: 10-minute walk from Wako City Station south exit
Opening Hours: Always open (refrain from nighttime visits)
Around Toyoko Inn Wako City Ekimae
Appearance Scene: Anime Season 2
The exterior of the business hotel “Toyoko Inn Wako City Ekimae” and the surrounding streetscape also appear as backgrounds in Season 2. They serve as important elements in expressing the atmosphere of the commercial area in front of the station.
Goshuin/Stamp Information at Wako City Hall
How to Obtain Pilgrimage Goshuin
As part of regional revitalization leveraging its appeal as an anime pilgrimage site, Wako City provides services for pilgrims.
Wako City Hall Secretary and Public Relations Division Counter
The Secretary and Public Relations Division counter at Wako City Hall may provide commemorative stamps and materials related to the “Saekano: How to Raise a Boring Girlfriend” series (varies by period; advance confirmation recommended).
Address: 1-5 Hirosawa, Wako City, Saitama Prefecture
Access: 15-minute walk from Wako City Station south exit, or by bus to “Shiyakusho-mae”
Office Hours: Weekdays 8:30-17:15 (closed on weekends and holidays)
Inquiries: 048-464-1111 (main number)
Etiquette When Visiting
Since city hall is a government facility, please note the following when visiting:
- Avoid busy times to not interfere with counter operations
- Keep questions to staff brief and polite
- Absolutely no loud voices or running around inside the building
- Photography only in permitted areas
Efficient Pilgrimage Route Suggestions
Half-Day Course (Duration: approximately 3-4 hours)
9:00 Arrive at Wako City Station
↓ Walk immediately
9:10 Photography inside Wako City Station/Platform (30 minutes)
↓ Walk immediately
9:40 South Exit Rotary Photography (20 minutes)
↓ 2-minute walk
10:00 Break at Gusto Wako City Ekimae Store (60 minutes)
↓ 10-minute walk
11:10 Stroll and Photography at Seseragi Park (40 minutes)
↓ 15-minute walk
12:00 Visit Wako City Hall (30 minutes)
↓ 15-minute walk
12:45 Arrive at Wako City Station/End
Full-Day Course (Combined with Toshima Ward, Tokyo Pilgrimage Sites)
Morning: Wako City Area (Half-day course above)
13:00 Depart Wako City Station
↓ About 20 minutes on Fukutoshin Line
13:20 Arrive at Zoshigaya Station
Afternoon: Toshima Ward Area (Nozoki-zaka, Toden Zoshigaya Station, etc.)
This route allows you to efficiently visit the main “Saekano” pilgrimage sites in one day.
Seasonal Highlights and Recommended Visiting Periods
Spring (March-May)
The cherry blossom season evokes memories of the impressive cherry blossom blizzard scene from Episode 1. Cherry blossoms can be enjoyed around Seseragi Park, making it ideal for photography. However, the Wako City Station area doesn’t have as many cherry blossoms as Tokyo’s Toshima Ward “Nozoki-zaka.”
Recommendation: ★★★★☆
Summer (June-August)
The greenery becomes dense, and the stream at Seseragi Park creates a cool atmosphere. However, daytime temperatures are high, so heatstroke prevention is essential. Early morning or evening visits are recommended.
Recommendation: ★★★☆☆
Autumn (September-November)
With mild weather, this is the optimal season for pilgrimage. While there isn’t much autumn foliage, the comfortable temperatures make long walks pleasant. It also coincides with the Season 2 broadcast period, allowing you to experience the atmosphere.
Recommendation: ★★★★★
Winter (December-February)
The clear air provides good conditions for photography, but cold weather measures are necessary. With many indoor facilities around the station, it’s an area that’s easy to visit even on cold days.
Recommendation: ★★★☆☆
Detailed Access Information
Access by Train
Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line/Yurakucho Line
- From Ikebukuro Station: About 10 minutes by Fukutoshin Line express, about 15 minutes by local
- From Shinjuku-sanchome Station: About 20 minutes by Fukutoshin Line
- From Shibuya Station: About 30 minutes by Fukutoshin Line
- From Yokohama Station: About 60 minutes by direct Fukutoshin Line
Tobu Tojo Line
- From Ikebukuro Station: About 12 minutes by express, about 15 minutes by semi-express
- From Kawagoe Station: About 20 minutes by express
Fare (from Ikebukuro Station): 220 yen (when using IC)
Access by Car
While there are multiple coin parking lots around Wako City Station, they can be crowded on weekends. Use of public transportation is recommended.
Main Roads:
- About 5 minutes from Tokyo Gaikan Expressway “Wako IC”
- Along National Route 254 (Kawagoe Kaido)
Manners and Rules During Pilgrimage
Basic Manners
- No Entry to Private Property: While many photography spots are in public places, absolutely do not enter private property.
- Be Mindful of Noise: As residential areas are nearby, refrain from loud conversations or early morning/late night visits.
- Always Take Your Trash: Taking trash home is basic for keeping pilgrimage sites beautiful.
- Obey Traffic Rules: Dangerous acts like running into roads while absorbed in photography are strictly prohibited.
- Consideration for Local Residents: Pilgrimage sites are also living spaces for local people. Don’t forget greetings and gratitude.
Photography Precautions
- Inside Stations: Tripod use is generally prohibited. Finish quickly with handheld photography.
- Commercial Facilities: Exterior photography of stores from public roads only. Always get permission for interior photography.
- Parks: Be careful not to include other users in photos.
- Portrait Rights: Avoid posting photos on SNS that include ordinary people.
Nearby Accommodation and Dining Information
Accommodation
Toyoko Inn Wako City Ekimae
A business hotel that is also a pilgrimage site. Conveniently located 1 minute walk from the station.
Price Range: Single rooms from 5,000 yen~
Hotels Around Wako City
There are several business hotels around Wako City Station. Staying around Ikebukuro Station and commuting via Fukutoshin Line is also convenient.
Dining Spots
Gusto Wako City Ekimae Store
One of the pilgrimage sites. A family restaurant where you can eat at reasonable prices.
Restaurants in Station Building
The commercial facility directly connected to Wako City Station has multiple cafes and restaurants.
Restaurants Around the Station
Around the south exit, there are various dining establishments including ramen shops, set meal restaurants, and cafes.
The Appeal of Wako City as a “Saekano” Pilgrimage Site
A Place Deeply Connected to Utaha-senpai’s Story
Wako City is not merely a background but a place deeply connected to the inner life and growth of the character Utaha Kasumigaoka. It’s the setting for her debut work “Koisuru Metronome,” and many important scenes depicting her changing relationship with Tomoya are depicted here.
Easy Combination with Tokyo Pilgrimage Sites
The location of 15 minutes from Ikebukuro makes it easy to combine with pilgrimage sites around Zoshigaya in Toshima Ward (Nozoki-zaka, Toden Zoshigaya Station, etc.), allowing deep immersion in the world of “Saekano” in one day.
Cooperative Attitude of the Local Community
Wako City has an attitude of utilizing its aspect as an anime pilgrimage site for regional revitalization, with an atmosphere welcoming pilgrims through information provision at city hall and other means.
Combination with Other Anime Pilgrimage Sites in Saitama Prefecture
Saitama Prefecture has many anime pilgrimage sites besides “Saekano.” Here are some sites that combine well with Wako City.
“Lucky Star” (Washinomiya Shrine, Kuki City)
From Wako City, take the Tobu Tojo Line toward Kasukabe, transfer to reach Kuki City. This work pioneered the anime pilgrimage boom in Japan.
“Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day” (Chichibu City)
From Wako City via Ikebukuro to Seibu Line, or via Tobu Tojo Line toward Yorii. Chichibu is a representative anime pilgrimage site in Saitama Prefecture.
Summary: Experience the World of “Saekano” in Wako City, Saitama Prefecture
Wako City, Saitama Prefecture is an essential pilgrimage site in the “Saekano: How to Raise a Boring Girlfriend” series for depicting the relationship between Utaha-senpai and Tomoya. With main spots concentrated within walking distance centered on Wako City Station, the compactness that allows thorough pilgrimage in half a day is also appealing.
Good access from central Tokyo, the cooperative attitude of the local community, and deep connections with the work’s world. These combined elements make Wako City a special place for “Saekano” fans.
Through pilgrimage, actually seeing scenery seen in the anime and tracing paths walked by characters will deepen understanding and attachment to the work. Observe manners, don’t forget gratitude to the community, and enjoy a wonderful pilgrimage journey.
Just 15 minutes from Ikebukuro on the Fukutoshin Line. Why not visit Wako City this weekend, filled with memories of Utaha-senpai and Tomoya? The world of the anime certainly exists there.
