“Nagi no Asukara” (A Lull in the Sea) is an anime produced by P.A.WORKS that aired from October 2013 to March 2014. Set in a world where people live both in the sea and on land, it depicts the wavering romantic relationships of adolescent boys and girls. The beautiful seascapes and delicate human drama captured the hearts of many fans, and even more than 10 years after its broadcast, the work continues to enjoy strong popularity.
The setting model for this work is Kumano City, Mie Prefecture. Located in the southeastern part of the Kii Peninsula, Kumano City is a picturesque region known for the world heritage “Kumano Kodo” and “Oni ga Shiro.” The real landscapes have been faithfully recreated in the anime, including the old Hatasu Elementary School (the model for Namikaze Junior High School in the work), Shinkajima Coast, Futagishima, and Otomari.
This article comprehensively explains the detailed information on 17 major holy sites for fans planning a pilgrimage to “Nagi no Asukara,” access methods, efficient pilgrimage routes, and the latest collaboration project information—everything you need to actually visit these locations.
Complete Map of Holy Sites in Kumano City, Mie Prefecture
Distribution and Geographic Characteristics of Holy Sites
The holy sites of “Nagi no Asukara” are scattered along the coast of Kumano City, Mie Prefecture, and the adjacent Kihoku Town Kiinagashima district. The main holy site areas are as follows:
- Hatasu District, Kumano City: The core hub of holy sites centered on the old Hatasu Elementary School (the model for Namikaze Junior High School)
- Shinkajima District, Kumano City: Shinkajima Coast, Sayamart Shinkajima Store, and other stages for important scenes in the work
- Futagishima District, Kumano City: Beautiful coastal scenery reminiscent of the work’s world
- Otomari District, Kumano City: The coastline near Oni ga Shiro appears in the work
- Kiinagashima District, Kihoku Town: Red Wing level crossing, Kiryuu Shipbuilding, and others
Since these spots are dispersed over 20 kilometers or more along Kumano City’s coastline, careful planning is extremely important for an efficient pilgrimage.
[Must Visit] Old Hatasu Elementary School (Model for Namikaze Junior High School and Mihama Junior High School)
A must-see for any holy site pilgrimage is the old Hatasu Elementary School, the model for Namikaze Junior High School where Hikari and others attended in the work, and Mihama Junior High School, the school on land.
Basic Information:
- Location: Hatasu Town, Kumano City, Mie Prefecture
- Access: From Kumano City Station, take a bus for about 30 minutes to “Hatasu-guchi” stop, then walk about 10 minutes
- Viewing: Only exterior viewing is possible (entry into school buildings is prohibited)
- Parking: A few spaces available nearby
The wooden school building standing on a high ground overlooking the sea is exactly as it appears in the anime. The exterior of the school building, schoolyard, and the view of the sea from the school—you can experience the work’s world view in its entirety. However, the school is now closed, and entry into the building is not permitted. When photographing from outside the premises, please be considerate of the lives of local residents and view quietly.
Holy Sites in the Shinkajima Coast Area
Shinkajima Coast
The model for the beautiful coastline that appears many times in the work. It is characterized by highly transparent sea and white sandy beaches and is also selected as one of “Japan’s 100 Finest Beaches.”
- Location: Shinkajima Town, Kumano City, Mie Prefecture
- Access: From Kumano City Station, take a bus for about 20 minutes to “Shinkajima Port,” then immediate access
- Features: Crowded with many tourists during the swimming season (July-August)
Sayamart Shinkajima Store
This is believed to be the model for the convenience store where Mami and others shopped in the work. In reality, it is a private store and an important piece of infrastructure for the local community’s life.
Caution: This is an operating general store, not a tourist facility. Avoid prolonged stays for purposes other than shopping or taking pictures inside the store. Photographs of the exterior should also be taken with consideration for the shop owner and other customers.
Holy Sites in the Futagishima and Otomari Areas
Futagishima Fishing Port Vicinity
One of the models for the seascape village landscape. It is characterized by a small fishing port and an intricate coastline.
- Access: From Kumano City Station, take a bus for about 40 minutes to “Futagishima”
- Points of Interest: The atmosphere of the fishing port, views from the breakwater
Oni ga Shiro Vicinity
The coastline around Oni ga Shiro, which is also registered as a world heritage site, appears in the work. The contrast between the rugged rocks and the blue sea is striking.
- Location: Kimoto Town, Kumano City, Mie Prefecture
- Access: About 5 minutes by car from Kumano City Station, or about 20 minutes on foot
- Admission: Free (separate charge for center facility use)
Holy Sites in Kiinagashima District, Kihoku Town
Red Wing Level Crossing
The model for a level crossing that appears in an impressive scene in the work.
- Location: Kiinagashima District, Kihoku Town, Kitimuro District, Mie Prefecture
- Access: About 10 minutes on foot from Kii-Nagashima Station
- Caution: This is an operating level crossing, so please exercise utmost care for safety when photographing.
Kiryuu Shipbuilding
The landscape of the shipyard appears in the work. Since this is an active facility, please limit viewing to outside the premises.
Complete Guide to Access Methods
Access by Public Transportation
From the Nagoya Area
Limited Express Nanki (Recommended Route)
- Limited express “Nanki” from Nagoya Station to Kumano City Station takes about 3 hours 30 minutes
- Fare: About 6,000 yen per way (unreserved seat)
- Frequency: About 3-4 trains per day
Conventional Line (If You Have Time)
- Nagoya Station → Kameyama Station → Taki Station → Kumano City Station
- Travel time: About 5-6 hours
- Fare: About 3,000 yen per way
From the Osaka/Kansai Area
- Kintetsu limited express from Osaka Namba Station to Matsusaka Station takes about 1 hour 40 minutes
- Transfer to JR Kisei Main Line at Matsusaka Station; to Kumano City Station takes about 2 hours
- Total travel time: About 4 hours
- Fare: About 5,000 yen per way
Secondary Transportation Within Kumano City
Route Bus
The Kumano City self-operated bus “Oburo Bus” connects various districts within the city.
- Service: Weekdays only (closed on weekends and holidays)
- Fare: Approximately 200-500 yen depending on the section
- Frequency: Only a few trains per day
- Timetable: Check the Kumano City Tourism Association’s official website
Caution: Since the number of buses is extremely limited, a detailed plan is essential for holy site pilgrimage using public transportation alone. Missing a bus could result in a wait of several hours.
Access by Car (Recommended)
Since the holy sites are scattered over a wide area, visiting by rental car or personal vehicle is the most efficient.
From the Nagoya Area
- Meishin Expressway → Ise Expressway → Kisei Expressway → National Route 42
- Travel time: About 3 hours 30 minutes
- Distance: About 200 km
From the Osaka Area
- Hanwa Expressway → Kisei Expressway → National Route 42
- Travel time: About 3 hours
- Distance: About 180 km
Rental Car Information
- Near Kumano City Station: Rental car shops are limited (advance reservation essential)
- Matsusaka Station/Ise City Station: Multiple rental car companies available (option to rent here and travel)
- Estimated cost: About 5,000-8,000 yen per day
Pilgrimage by Bicycle
Some fans make pilgrimages by bicycle (including rental bikes), but the following points should be noted:
- Long distances between holy sites (about 10 km just between Hatasu and Shinkajima)
- National Route 42 along the coast has heavy traffic, with sections without sidewalks
- Steep ups and downs in some areas
- Best for those with physical strength and time to spare
Efficient Holy Site Pilgrimage Model Routes
Day Trip by Car Plan (Recommended)
Total Time: About 6-7 hours
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8:00 Depart from Kumano City Station (rental car)
8:15 Oni ga Shiro (30 minutes)
9:00 Shinkajima Coast/Sayamart Shinkajima Store (1 hour)
10:30 Old Hatasu Elementary School (1 hour)
12:00 Lunch (near Kumano City Station or at rest area)
13:30 Futagishima Fishing Port Vicinity (1 hour)
15:00 Kihoku Town, Red Wing Level Crossing, Kiryuu Shipbuilding (1 hour)
16:30 Arrival at Kumano City Station
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This route allows you to efficiently visit major spots. Please adjust the time for photography and viewing according to your own preferences.
1-Night, 2-Day Leisurely Plan
Day 1
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Morning: Arrive in Kumano City, gather information at the tourism information center
Afternoon: Make pilgrimage centered on Shinkajima Coast area, old Hatasu Elementary School
Evening: Check in at accommodation near Kumano City or Shinkajima Coast
Night: Enjoy local seafood cuisine
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Day 2
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Morning: Make pilgrimage to Futagishima, Otomari areas
Afternoon: Kiihoku Town area, or tourist spots such as Oni ga Shiro
Evening: Begin return journey
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By staying overnight, you can enjoy the beautiful seascapes at dawn and dusk and immerse yourself more deeply in the work’s world view.
Public Transportation Plan (Advanced Level)
Prerequisites: Possible only on weekdays; must check bus timetables in advance
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8:00 Kumano City Station
8:30 Take bus to Shinkajima Port (about 20 minutes)
9:00-11:00 Explore Shinkajima Coast area
11:30 Take bus to Hatasu-guchi (about 10 minutes)
12:00-14:00 Visit old Hatasu Elementary School (including round-trip walk)
14:30 Return to Kumano City Station by bus
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Caution: With limited bus frequency, it is extremely difficult to visit Futagishima and Kihoku areas using only public transportation. Bring plenty of time and consider using a taxi.
Official Collaboration Projects of Kumano City Tourism Association
2025 Latest Collaboration Information
The Kumano City Tourism Association continues to implement official collaborations with “Nagi no Asukara.” During the 10th anniversary event in 2024, over 1,500 fans visited, showing great enthusiasm.
2025 Collaboration Measures (Starting January 25, 2025)
- Sale of original merchandise
- Distribution of holy site pilgrimage maps (at Kumano City Tourism Information Center)
- Operation of collaboration-wrapped buses (limited period)
- Installation of panels and life-size standees
- Digital stamp rally
For details, check the latest information on the Kumano City Tourism Association’s official website (https://www.kumano-kankou.info/).
Utilization of Kumano City Station and Tourism Information Center
Kumano City Tourism Information Center
- Location: Inside Kumano City Station
- Business Hours: 9:00-17:00 (varies by season)
- Services:
- Distribution of holy site pilgrimage maps
- Sale of collaboration merchandise
- Tourist information provision
- Bus schedule confirmation
We strongly recommend gathering information here as your starting point for holy site pilgrimage.
Kumano City Station Front Specialty Products Hall “Umihikari”
- Business Hours: Around 9:00-18:00
- Products Handled: Local specialty products, souvenirs, some collaboration merchandise
You can purchase local specialty products and also use the space as a break area.
Cautions and Etiquette for Holy Site Pilgrimage
Basic Etiquette
- Do Not Enter Private Land or No-Entry Areas
- Old Hatasu Elementary School: exterior viewing only
- Never enter local residents’ properties
- Be Mindful of Noise
- Keep conversations low in residential areas
- Avoid visiting early morning or late at night
- Always Take Trash with You
- There are almost no trash cans near holy sites
- Always take trash with you for environmental protection
- Show Consideration When Photographing
- Be careful not to photograph local residents
- Get permission before photographing inside active shops
- Prioritize safety when photographing roads or level crossings
Consideration for the Community
The holy sites of Kumano City are places where local people actually live. Shops like Sayamart Shinkajima Store are not tourist facilities but essential infrastructure for community life. When visiting:
- If possible, purchase something to contribute to the local economy
- Be considerate so as not to interfere with business
- Use polite language when interacting with local people
Fans’ appropriate behavior will lead to the continuation of holy site pilgrimage culture in the future.
Safety Precautions
- Cautions at the Beach
- The water’s edge is slippery
- Watch out for high waves on stormy days
- Take full heat stroke precautions in summer
- Roads and Traffic
- National Route 42 has heavy traffic, and some sections lack sidewalks
- Avoid parking on road shoulders as it inconveniences following vehicles
- Be careful when driving on winding mountain roads
- Mobile Phone Signal
- In some areas, signal strength is weak or no signal
- Download maps in advance
- Ensure backup communication means in case of emergency
Kumano Tourism That Can Be Enjoyed Together with Holy Site Pilgrimage
World Heritage Kumano Kodo
If you visit Kumano City, you’ll want to experience the world heritage Kumano Kodo. To combine it with holy site pilgrimage:
- Matsumoto Pass: Relatively close to Kumano City Station, about 2 hours round trip
- Oni ga Shiro: A scenic spot also included in the holy site pilgrimage route
Hot Springs
- Iruka Onsen Hotel Seiryuusou: A hot spring inn in Kumano City
- Yunokuchi Onsen: A facility offering day-use bathing
Perfect for relaxing after a day of holy site pilgrimage.
Gourmet
Kumano Specialties
- Sanma Sushi: A local specialty of the Kumano region
- Mehari Sushi: Rice ball wrapped in takana leaves
- Fresh Seafood: Cuisine using local fish and shellfish
Available at restaurants around Kumano City Station and the rest area “Kumano・Itaya Kurojiro no Sato.”
Accommodation Information
Main Accommodation Facilities in Kumano City
Hotels and Inns
- Kumano Club: A luxury resort facility
- Iruka Onsen Hotel Seiryuusou: Enjoy hot springs
- Several business hotels: Around Kumano City Station
Private Accommodations and Guest Houses
- Near Shinkajima Coast: Multiple private accommodations for swimming beach visitors
- Relatively affordable price range
Caution
- The number of accommodation facilities is limited, so early reservation is essential on weekends and during the summer season
- Especially crowded during collaboration event periods
- If you don’t have a car, accommodations near Kumano City Station are convenient
Accommodation in Nearby Cities
If accommodation in Kumano City is fully booked:
- Owase City: North of Kumano City, about 30 minutes by car
- Kiinagashima: The center of Kihoku Town, also a holy site location
- Shingu City: South of Kumano City, in Wakayama Prefecture
Recommended Visiting Seasons
Spring (March-May)
- Climate: Mild and comfortable
- Merits: Relatively fewer tourists, beautiful new foliage
- Drawbacks: Rainy season in some periods
Summer (June-August)
- Climate: Hot and humid
- Merits: Can also enjoy swimming, experience summer scenes from the work
- Drawbacks: More tourists, accommodations crowded, heat stroke risk
Autumn (September-November)
- Climate: Cool and comfortable
- Merits: The most comfortable season, sea relatively calm
- Drawbacks: Overlaps with typhoon season
Most Recommended: Late September to November is the best season climatically
Winter (December-February)
- Climate: Mild but windy days as well
- Merits: Fewer tourists, cheaper accommodations, experience the harshness of the winter sea
- Drawbacks: Shorter daylight hours, some facilities closed
Packing Checklist
Essential Items
- Smartphone (map/camera/holy site comparison)
- Mobile battery (battery drains quickly in areas with weak signal)
- Drinking water (few vending machines)
- Hat/sunscreen (summer)
- Rain gear (folding umbrella)
- Cash (many shops don’t accept cashless payments)
Convenient to Have
- Screenshots from anime (for holy site comparison)
- Tripod/selfie stick
- Towel (for wiping sweat/beach exploration)
- Change of clothes (summer)
- Garbage bag
- Insect repellent (summer)
When Using Public Transportation
- Printed version of bus schedule (in case of no signal)
- Taxi company contact information
- Flexible schedule
To Enjoy the Work More Deeply
Prior Preparation
Re-watching the work before pilgrimage allows for a deeper sense of emotion:
- Watch all 26 episodes: Particularly check scenes where holy sites appear
- Review character relationships: Remember what happened at each location
- Collect screenshots: Save for holy site comparison
How to Enjoy at Holy Sites
- Photograph from the same angle: Compare anime and reality
- Put yourself in the characters’ shoes: Imagine what they felt at that location
- Match the time of day: Visit at the same time as scenes in the work
- Match the season: If possible, visit during the same season as in the work
Fan Interaction
- Information sharing on SNS (hashtags: #凪のあすから #凪あす聖地巡礼)
- Interaction with other fans met on-site
- Conversation with local people (share your feelings about the work)
Conclusion: Making Your “Nagi no Asukara” Holy Site Pilgrimage Successful
Kumano City, Mie Prefecture—the holy site of “Nagi no Asukara”—is a wonderful place where you can experience the work’s beautiful world view exactly as depicted. However, with holy sites scattered over a wide area and limited public transportation options, careful prior planning is key to success.
Points for Success:
- Secure Transportation: Use a car (rental car) whenever possible
- Allow Ample Time: A 1-night 2-day trip is better than a day trip
- Gather Prior Information: Check official information from the Kumano City Tourism Association
- Respect Etiquette: Never forget consideration for local people
- Visit with Love for the Work: Conduct yourself with pride as a fan
Kumano’s beautiful sea and the warm welcome of local people will surely create wonderful memories of your holy site pilgrimage. We hope you immerse yourself in the world of “Nagi no Asukara” while also enjoying the nature and culture of Kumano.
Through holy site pilgrimage, deepen your love for the work, and at the same time, gain an opportunity to know Kumano City—a wonderful region. And by following appropriate etiquette, let’s each contribute so that many fans can continue to visit these holy sites with peace of mind.
