Toyama Prefecture’s Himi City is known as the hometown of manga master Fujiko A. Ⓐ Sensei. The central facility, Himi City Shiokaze Gallery (Fujiko A. Ⓐ Art Collection), was selected in 2017 as one of the “88 Japanese Anime Sacred Sites Worth Visiting” by the Anime Tourism Association, and has become a pilgrimage destination visited by fans nationwide. This article introduces the attractions of this facility comprehensively.
What is Himi City Shiokaze Gallery? The Dissemination Base of Fujiko A. Ⓐ World
Himi City Shiokaze Gallery is a cultural facility that reopened as the “Fujiko A. Ⓐ Art Collection” in Heisei 27 (2015), where visitors can experience the world of works by Fujiko A. Sensei. As the core of “Himi City Fujiko A. Ⓐ Manga World,” which expands throughout the city, it has become a representative tourist attraction alongside character statues and monuments displayed throughout the area.
Significance of Anime Sacred Site 88 Certification
On July 9, 2018, an official certification plaque was granted by the General Incorporated Association Anime Tourism Association. Within Toyama Prefecture, three locations were selected—Kamiichi Town (the film “Wolf Children Ame and Yuki”), Nanto City (TV anime “true tears”), and this location—but Shiokaze Gallery is the only sacred site designation among exhibition facilities, proving its high value.
Master Manga Artist Fujiko A. Ⓐ Sensei from Himi City
Fujiko A. Ⓐ (real name:素雄 Abe Motoo) Sensei was born in Himi City in 1934 and created numerous masterpieces including “Ninja Hattori-kun,” “Kaibutsu-kun,” “Pro Golfer Saru,” and “Laughing Salesman.” He spent his youth at Tokiwa-so in Tokyo alongside Osamu Tezuka and others, becoming a legendary figure who built Japanese manga culture.
First Floor Highlights | Savoring Fujiko A. World
Original Art and Reproduction Art Displays
In the main first-floor area, numerous original artworks and reproduction artworks from Fujiko A. Sensei’s representative works, including “Ninja Hattori-kun” and “Kaibutsu-kun,” are on display. Visitors can view the actual pen strokes and detailed drawings up close, providing a valuable opportunity to feel the techniques and passion of professionals firsthand.
Exhibits are rotated regularly, so there are new discoveries with each visit. The delicate lines and correction marks in the original artwork provide a glimpse behind the scenes of manga production.
Kaibutsu-kun Welcomes You | Entrance Full of Characters
At the gallery entrance, a large three-dimensional statue of Kaibutsu-kun welcomes visitors. Familiar characters such as Franken, Dracula, and the Wolfman are also positioned there, making it a popular photo spot. From the entrance, the atmosphere draws visitors into Fujiko A. World, and the space design naturally brings smiles to both children and adults.
Himi-Depicted Works Corner
A corner displaying reproduction artworks and comic essay explanations of Himi, Fujiko A. Sensei’s hometown, is a special space unique to the local area. The sensei’s feelings toward Himi and memories from his childhood are embedded in the works, providing an moving experience where Himi’s landscapes and the world of the works overlap.
By learning how Himi’s sea, mountains, and streets are depicted in the works, the pilgrimage through the city becomes even more enjoyable.
Recreated “Tokiwa-so Room 14”
One of the highlights on the first floor is a recreation corner of “Tokiwa-so Room 14,” the legendary apartment where Fujiko A. Sensei spent his youth. A 4.5-mat single room from the 1950s is faithfully recreated, with period furnishings, desks, bookshelves, and other items arranged throughout.
Visitors can experience the legendary space where young men who would later become Japan’s representative manga artists—Osamu Tezuka, Shotaro Ishinomori, Fujio Akatsuka, and others—competed and refined their skills. One can sense the passion of the young artist pouring his energy into manga in that small room.
Fujiko A. Studio | Character Goods Sales Corner
On the first floor, there is a goods sales corner named “Fujiko A. Studio” with an abundant selection of character merchandise exclusive to Himi City that can be found nowhere else. Plush toys of Hattori-kun and Kaibutsu-kun, stationery, candy, T-shirts, and other items perfect as souvenirs from a pilgrimage are sold in abundance.
Shopping for souvenirs is also part of the fun, with appealing products that fans and non-fans alike will want.
Second Floor Appeal | Digital Technology and Manga Library
Digital Manga Screen | Stepping Into the World of Works with the Latest Technology
On the second floor, a “Fujiko A. Ⓐ Digital Manga Screen” utilizing cutting-edge digital technology is installed. When visitors stand before the screen, they may see themselves transformed into Ninja Hattori-kun, or when they point a camera flash at the dark screen, unexpected characters pop out, creating an interactive experience.
This experiential exhibition is particularly popular with children, offering the sensation of stepping into the world of manga. Since photography is possible, it’s also ideal for creating SNS-worthy memories.
Manga Library with 1,000 Books | A Space to Read Works Leisurely
The second-floor “Manga Library” houses approximately 1,000 comic books by Fujiko A. Sensei, which are available for free browsing. Visitors can leisurely read the master’s vast body of work, from representative works to hidden masterpieces.
Chairs and sofas are provided, allowing visitors to become absorbed in the world of the works. Many parents and children enjoy them together, and it serves as a place where one can experience the appeal of works loved across generations.
Workshop Space
The second floor also has a space where workshops and events are held regularly, including manga classes and character craft activities. Checking the official website for event information before visiting allows for a more enriching experience.
Basic Information | Business Hours, Admission, and Access
Facility Overview
Facility Name: Himi City Shiokaze Gallery (Fujiko A. Ⓐ Art Collection)
Address: 〒935-0011 Toyama Prefecture, Himi City, Chuo-cho 3-4
Phone Number: 0766-72-4800
Business Hours and Closed Days
Business Hours: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Admission until 4:30 PM)
Closed Days:
- Every Monday (if a holiday, the following weekday)
- Year-end and New Year (December 29 to January 3)
- Temporary closures during exhibit changes and other periods
※Please confirm the latest business information in advance on the official website or by phone.
Admission Fees
Regular Admission:
- Adults: 200 yen
- High school students and younger: Free
Discounts:
- Holders of disability certificates and one caregiver: Free
- Groups of 20 or more: 160 yen (adults only)
High school students and younger being free reflects Himi City’s desire to pass manga culture to younger generations. The admission price is set so that families can visit easily.
Access Methods
By Train and Bus:
- Get off at “Himi Station” on the JR Himi Line
- Take the Himi City loop bus or Kaetsunoh bus for approximately 6 minutes
- Get off at “Himi Chuo” bus stop, walking distance away
By Car:
- Approximately 10 minutes from “Himi IC” on the Noe-tsu Expressway
- Approximately 30 minutes from “Takaoka IC” on the Hokuriku Expressway
On Foot:
- Approximately 10 minutes walk from the Michi no Eki “Himi Himi Banya Street”
- Approximately 20 minutes walk from JR Himi Station
Parking Information
Dedicated Parking Lot: Available (Free)
Capacity: Approximately 20 regular vehicles
Notes: During busy seasons, nearby public parking lots (fee-based) are also available. Early arrival is recommended during tourist season and weekends.
Pilgrimage Spots in the Surrounding Area | Enjoying Himi Manga World
Character Statues and Monuments in Himi City
Over 30 character statues and monuments by Fujiko A. Sensei are installed throughout Himi City, transforming the entire town into a “manga world.”
Main Spots:
- JR Himi Station: Bronze statue of Ninja Hattori-kun
- Manga Road: Various character statues scattered throughout the shopping street
- Along Minato River: Statues of Kaibutsu-kun’s family
- Himino-e Park: Statue of Pro Golfer Saru
It is recommended to pick up a map at Shiokaze Gallery and tour the city in a stamp rally format.
Himi Banya Street
Located a 10-minute walk from Shiokaze Gallery, “Himi Banya Street” is a Michi no Eki (roadside station) where visitors can enjoy Himi’s seafood. It offers fresh seafood sales, a rotating sushi restaurant, hot spring facilities, and other attractions, making it possible to enjoy Himi tourism alongside the pilgrimage.
Himi City Seacoast Botanical Garden
Located along the coast, this botanical garden offers four-season flowers and stunning views of Toyama Bay. It is approximately 15 minutes by car from Shiokaze Gallery.
Tips for Enjoying Your Pilgrimage More
Recommended Visiting Seasons
Spring (April to May): Cherry blossom season makes Himi’s streetscape beautiful, with mild weather
Summer (July to August): Many events such as the Himi Gion Festival with a lively atmosphere
Autumn (October to November): The season for cold yellowtail (kaniburi) with the best seafood
Winter (December to February): Enjoy Himi’s winter delicacies, but be mindful of weather
Estimated Time Required
- Gallery Only: 1-2 hours
- Including City Character Statue Tour: 3-4 hours
- Full-day Course with Surrounding Attractions: 5-6 hours
Those wishing to leisurely read works in the manga library should plan with extra time.
Photography Etiquette
Photography is permitted in most areas of the gallery, but please note the following:
- Do not use flash in areas marked as “no flash photography”
- Especially careful in original artwork display areas
- Do not obstruct other visitors’ viewing
- Be mindful of copyright when posting on social media
Discount Pass Information
Himi City issues advantageous passes and coupons for touring tourist facilities. Check the latest information at the Himi City Tourism Association or station information desks.
Model Course | Enjoying Himi Pilgrimage in One Day
【Morning】 Manga World Full Experience Course
9:30 Arrival at JR Himi Station, memorial photo at the Hattori-kun statue in front of the station
10:00 Enter Himi City Shiokaze Gallery upon opening, thoroughly appreciate first-floor original artwork exhibits
11:00 Read works in the second-floor manga library, experience the digital manga screen
12:00 Purchase souvenirs at the gift shop
【Afternoon】 Himi Gourmet & Street Walk Course
12:30 Enjoy Himi seafood lunch at Himi Banya Street (Himi udon, rotating sushi, etc.)
14:00 Tour character statues on Manga Road, participate in stamp rally
15:30 Enjoy the views of Toyama Bay at Himino-e Park
16:30 Relax in a hot spring (hot spring facilities at Himi Banya Street, etc.)
18:00 Return via Himi Station
This course allows efficient enjoyment of both pilgrimage and Himi tourism.
Visitor Testimonials | Impressions from Actual Pilgrims
“I was overwhelmed by the impact of the original artwork. The Tokiwa-so recreation corner was moving, and I could feel the passion of young Fujiko Sensei and his peers.” (30s male)
“My child was captivated by the digital manga screen and experienced it multiple times. The manga library was also well-stocked, and we could enjoy it as a family.” (40s female)
“It deserves its selection as one of the 88 anime sacred sites. For fans, it’s an unmissable facility. The Himi-exclusive merchandise is wonderful and made for great souvenirs.” (20s male)
“I was delighted that high school students and younger were admitted free. Even with three children, we could enter casually. The character statue tour throughout the city was enjoyable too.” (30s female)
Conclusion | Experience Fujiko A. World Pilgrimage at Himi City Shiokaze Gallery
Himi City Shiokaze Gallery (Fujiko A. Ⓐ Art Collection) is a representative anime sacred site in Toyama Prefecture where visitors can experience the world of works by manga master Fujiko A. Sensei. With diverse content including original artwork displays, Tokiwa-so recreation, digital manga screen, and a 1,000-book manga library, it offers enjoyment for both children and adults.
At this valuable facility certified as one of “88 Japanese Anime Sacred Sites Worth Visiting,” combined with character statues scattered throughout Himi City, visitors can truly immerse themselves in “manga world.” The generous free admission for high school students and younger is also appealing.
Himi’s beautiful nature, delicious seafood, and the warm world of Fujiko A. Sensei’s works—these three elements converge in Himi City. Why not create special pilgrimage memories in this unique town? Check the official website for the latest information before visiting and plan an enriching trip.
Shiokaze Gallery is a must-see sacred site for fans, made possible only in Himi, the hometown of Fujiko A. Ⓐ Sensei. By all means, visit and spend luxurious time immersed in the world of manga.
