【Zatsu Tabi – That’s Journey -】 Kurobe City, Toyama Prefecture
Introduction: “Zatsu Tabi” and the Charm of Toyama Prefecture
The TV anime “Zatsu Tabi – That’s Journey -” is an adaptation of the popular manga by Kenta Ishizaka, depicting the protagonist Chika’s spontaneous travels throughout Japan in a travel essay anime format. In the 2nd and 3rd journeys, Kurobe City in Toyama Prefecture becomes the setting, with many attractive tourist spots in Toyama Prefecture appearing, including the Kurobe Gorge, Unazuki Hot Spring, and the Ikuji coastal area.
The work also portrays realistic travel mishaps, such as the episode where Chika wasn’t able to ride the Kurobe Gorge trolley train due to insufficient preparation, which has actually captured fans’ hearts. This article provides detailed information about all locations appearing in Kurobe City, Toyama Prefecture, for fans of “Zatsu Tabi” who wish to visit the sacred sites.
Overview of “Zatsu Tabi” Toyama Edition
Journey 2: Miyagi Prefecture & Toyama Prefecture
In Journey 2, the story moves from Miyagi Prefecture to Toyama Prefecture, with the narrative unfolding mainly in the Ikuji district of Kurobe City. The story follows Chika and her friend Koyomi as they visit Toyama in search of fresh seafood and the magnificent scenery of the Tateyama mountain range.
Journey 3: Toyama Prefecture & Kagawa Prefecture
In Journey 3, Chika visits Kurobe City, Toyama Prefecture again. This time, centered on Unazuki Hot Spring, she aims for a comeback attempt at riding the Kurobe Gorge Railway’s trolley train. The quaint scenery of the hot spring town and delicious local cuisine are depicted carefully in the work.
Sacred Site Pilgrimage Starting Point: Kurobe Unazuki Onsen Station
Station Characteristics and Access
Kurobe Unazuki Onsen Station is a stopping station on the Hokuriku Shinkansen that opened in 2015. Located in Kurobe City, Toyama Prefecture, it is accessible from Tokyo Station via Shinkansen in approximately two and a half hours. The work also depicts the scene where Chika arrives from Tokyo Station via Shinkansen, making it an ideal starting point for sacred site pilgrimage.
The station building features modern design and serves as the gateway to Kurobe Gorge and the Tateyama mountain range. A tourism information center is located within the station, where visitors can obtain maps and pamphlets necessary for sacred site pilgrimage.
Points of Interest Around the Station
From the plaza in front of Kurobe Unazuki Onsen Station, on clear days, one can see the magnificent Tateyama mountain range. This is a scene that also appears in the work, depicting the characters’ sense of awe. From the station, it takes approximately 10 minutes by car to reach Unazuki Hot Spring town, and local buses also operate.
The station interior also features a regional tourism gallery with exhibition displays of tourism information and local specialty products for Kurobe City. It is recommended to stop by before starting the sacred site pilgrimage to preview the region’s attractions.
Fish Station Ikuji and Its Surroundings
Charm of Fish Station Ikuji
“Fish Station Ikuji (Ikuji)” is a roadside station-like facility selling fresh seafood caught in Toyama Bay. In the work, the scene where Chika and Koyomi visit and enjoy delicious local seafood is depicted impressively.
Within the facility, abundant seafood unique to Toyama is available, including white shrimp called “Toyama Bay jewels” and firefly squid that come into season in early spring. Dining establishments using fresh fish and shellfish are also located within the facility, allowing visitors to enjoy local cuisine during their sacred site pilgrimage.
Strolling Through Ikuji Town
The Ikuji district is an old port town that prospered through fishing, with several “shimizu” (spring water) spots scattered throughout the town. In particular, “Iwase Family Spring Water” is famous and appears in the work, being a beautiful spring water. With high transparency, it is still used by local residents as household water.
When strolling through Ikuji town, one can feel the atmosphere of a traditional fishing village. Narrow alleyways and old buildings remaining in the townscape are just as depicted in the work. Taking time to walk slowly while recalling scenes from the work is one of the highlights of sacred site pilgrimage.
Meeting the Japan Sea! Ikuji Coastal Area
The Ikuji coastline became the setting for the most impressive scene in the 2nd episode of “Zatsu Tabi”. The breathtaking beauty created by the endless blue sea and the magnificent Tateyama mountain range looming in the background is awe-inspiring.
In the work, the scene where Chika arrives at the coast and is moved is depicted, and the beauty of this scenery became a topic of discussion among fans. Visiting in person, one can experience an even greater sense of openness and the grandeur of nature than what is shown in the work. On clear days, the Tateyama mountain range comes into sharp view, and it is an ideal spot for photography.
A promenade is also developed along the coast, allowing for refreshing walks. The time spent walking while feeling the sea breeze is a pleasant experience that seems to detoxify both mind and body.
Shin-Kurobe Station and Toyama Chiho Railway Main Line
Role of Shin-Kurobe Station
Shin-Kurobe Station is a station on the Toyama Chiho Railway Main Line, serving as an important transportation hub connecting Kurobe Unazuki Onsen Station and Unazuki Hot Spring. In the work, it is utilized when moving from the Ikuji district to Unazuki Hot Spring.
The area around the station is a local living area where one can see Toyama Prefecture’s everyday scenery, different from tourist destinations. When using it as a transportation means during sacred site pilgrimage, interaction with local people is also one of the enjoyments.
Travel on Toyama Chiho Railway
The Toyama Chiho Railway Main Line is affectionately known as “Chiho Railway” by locals. The ride from Shin-Kurobe Station to Unazuki Onsen Station takes approximately 20 minutes. From the train windows, one can enjoy the scenic natural landscape along the Kurobe River.
The work also depicts the use of this railway line, allowing visitors to experience the atmosphere unique to local lines. Through sacred site pilgrimage using the same route as in the work, one can immerse themselves more deeply in the work’s world.
Charm of Unazuki Hot Spring Town
History and Characteristics of Unazuki Hot Spring
Unazuki Hot Spring is Toyama Prefecture’s largest hot spring area, spreading along the Kurobe River. It opened in 1923 when hot spring water was drawn from Kurogane Hot Spring in conjunction with hydroelectric development of the Kurobe River. Also known as the “beautiful skin hot spring,” it is characterized by transparent, weakly alkaline hot spring water with a pleasant feel.
Many inns and hotels line the hot spring town, serving as the gateway to Kurobe Gorge with many tourists visiting annually. In the work, the quaint scenery of the hot spring town and the enjoyment of hot spring hopping are depicted carefully.
Kurobe Gorge Railway Unazuki Station
Unazuki Station on the Kurobe Gorge Railway is one of the most important sacred sites in “Zatsu Tabi”. In the work, the episode where Chika couldn’t ride the trolley train due to insufficient preparation is depicted, and the scene “I’ll definitely make a comeback next time!” has remained in fans’ hearts.
Unazuki Station is the starting station of the Kurobe Gorge trolley train, and the station building itself is a charming structure. There is also a foot bath and hot spring facility in front of the station, allowing visitors to enjoy the wait time for the trolley train. When visiting for sacred site pilgrimage, it is recommended to learn from the lesson in the work by checking the operating status in advance and making reservations.
The trolley train operates seasonally from late April to late November, closing for winter. The fall foliage season from October to early November is particularly popular, making reservations difficult, so early planning is necessary.
Yumedo Unazuki
“Yumedo Unazuki” is a day-use hot spring facility near Unazuki Onsen Station. It appears in the work, with scenes of Chika enjoying the hot spring depicted.
The facility is located along the Kurobe River, and one can bathe in the outdoor bath while viewing the natural scenery of Kurobe Gorge. It is an ideal place to soothe a body tired from sacred site pilgrimage walks, allowing visitors to enjoy the beautiful skin hot spring at reasonable rates. It is loved by both tourists and local residents.
Kawagashiwa (Kawagashiwa)
“Kawagashiwa” is a restaurant near Unazuki Onsen Station, famous for pot rice and oden. In the work, the scene where Chika and Koyomi enjoy firefly squid pot rice appears, and this delicious depiction became a topic of discussion among fans.
When visiting in person, one can enjoy meals made with local ingredients in the warm atmosphere of the restaurant just as seen in the work. Firefly squid pot rice is a limited-time spring menu, but different pot rice varieties are available by season, allowing visitors to enjoy Toyama cuisine whenever they visit. Oden is also a specialty with abundant local ingredient toppings. It is definitely a place to visit as a dining spot during sacred site pilgrimage.
Yamabiko Observation Deck
“Yamabiko Observation Deck” on a hilltop in Unazuki Hot Spring town offers a panoramic view of Kurobe Gorge and the hot spring town. It appears in the work, and its beautiful scenery is depicted impressively.
The observation deck is about a 15-minute walk from the hot spring town. While climbing a slope is necessary, upon arrival, one is overwhelmed by the magnificent scenery of Kurobe Gorge spreading below. Especially during the fall foliage season, the entire gorge is dyed red and yellow, creating breathtakingly beautiful views.
The observation deck has a rest area where visitors can enjoy the scenery leisurely. It is also an ideal location for commemorative photographs during sacred site pilgrimage.
Other Sacred Sites
Daihisan Kichijo Temple
“Daihisan Kichijo Temple” in the Ikuji district is a temple that appears in the work. The temple grounds have a quiet, calm atmosphere, gathering the faith of local residents.
Stopping by during sacred site pilgrimage allows for peaceful time. The scenery surrounding the temple is also beautiful, and it is recommended to stroll around while recalling scenes from the work.
Dentetsu Kurobe Station
“Dentetsu Kurobe Station” on the Toyama Chiho Railway Main Line is also one of the stations appearing in the work. A station closely connected to local life, one can feel Toyama’s everyday life different from tourist destinations.
The area around the station also has shopping streets, and browsing local shops is an enjoyable experience. Through sacred site pilgrimage, one can touch the culture and lifestyle of the region that became the setting for the work.
Model Courses for Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Day Trip Course
Morning: Kurobe Unazuki Onsen Station → Ikuji District
- 9:00 Arrive at Kurobe Unazuki Onsen Station
- 9:30 View fresh seafood at Fish Station Ikuji
- 10:30 Stroll through Ikuji town (Iwase Family Spring Water, etc.)
- 11:30 Enjoy the spectacular scenery at Ikuji Coast
Afternoon: Unazuki Hot Spring
- 13:00 Transfer from Shin-Kurobe Station via Toyama Chiho Railway
- 13:30 Arrive at Unazuki Onsen Station
- 14:00 Visit Kurobe Gorge Railway Unazuki Station
- 15:00 Enjoy firefly squid pot rice at Kawagashiwa (spring season)
- 16:00 Enjoy the spectacular scenery at Yamabiko Observation Deck
- 17:00 Bathe in the hot spring at Yumedo Unazuki
- 18:30 Return via Kurobe Unazuki Onsen Station
One Night, Two Days Course
Day 1: Thoroughly explore the Ikuji district
- Morning: Arrive at Kurobe Unazuki Onsen Station, then head to Ikuji district
- Afternoon: Leisurely explore Fish Station Ikuji, Ikuji town, and the coast
- Evening: Check in at a ryokan in Unazuki Hot Spring
- Night: Enjoy the atmosphere of the hot spring town
Day 2: Kurobe Gorge and Unazuki Hot Spring
- Morning: Ride the Kurobe Gorge trolley train (reservation required)
- Afternoon: Explore hot spring town sights including Yamabiko Observation Deck and Kawagashiwa
- Evening: Return
With a one-night two-day course, one can visit all locations appearing in the work with ease. This course is especially recommended if planning to ride the Kurobe Gorge trolley train.
Access Information
From Tokyo Area
Shinkansen
- Tokyo Station → Kurobe Unazuki Onsen Station: Hokuriku Shinkansen approximately 2 hours 30 minutes
- Fare: Unreserved ordinary seat approximately 13,000 yen (one way)
Airplane + Train
- Haneda Airport → Toyama Kitokito Airport: approximately 1 hour
- Toyama Kitokito Airport → Toyama Station: Bus approximately 20 minutes
- Toyama Station → Kurobe Unazuki Onsen Station: Hokuriku Shinkansen approximately 20 minutes
From Osaka/Nagoya Area
Shinkansen
- Osaka Station → Kanazawa Station: Limited express Thunderbird approximately 2 hours 30 minutes
- Kanazawa Station → Kurobe Unazuki Onsen Station: Hokuriku Shinkansen approximately 1 hour
- Nagoya Station → Kanazawa Station: Limited express Shirasagi approximately 3 hours
- Kanazawa Station → Kurobe Unazuki Onsen Station: Hokuriku Shinkansen approximately 1 hour
Local Transportation
Bus
- Kurobe Unazuki Onsen Station → Unazuki Hot Spring: Local bus approximately 10 minutes
- Fare: approximately 500 yen
Toyama Chiho Railway
- Shin-Kurobe Station → Unazuki Onsen Station: approximately 20 minutes
- Fare: approximately 500 yen
Rental Car
- Rental car shops available near Kurobe Unazuki Onsen Station
- Convenient for visiting locations difficult to access by public transportation, such as the Ikuji district
Points and Etiquette for Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Photography Etiquette
When taking photographs during sacred site pilgrimage, please note the following:
- No trespassing on private property: Even if locations appear in the work, do not enter if on private land
- Photography at operating shops: Always ask staff for permission before photographing
- Consideration for other tourists: Do not become so focused on photography that you inconvenience others
- Mind noise levels: Be quiet when in residential areas
Consideration for Local Communities
Sacred site pilgrimage also involves visiting areas where local people live:
- Always take trash with you: Help keep the work’s setting beautiful
- Follow local rules: Respect no-parking zones and restricted areas
- Contribute to local economy: Purchase souvenirs and dine at local shops
Seasons and Clothing
Spring (March ~ May)
- Temperature: 10℃ ~ 20℃
- Clothing: Light jacket, comfortable walking shoes
- Points of interest: Firefly squid, cherry blossoms, fresh greenery
Summer (June ~ August)
- Temperature: 20℃ ~ 30℃
- Clothing: Short sleeves, hat, sunscreen
- Points of interest: Green Kurobe Gorge, sea bathing
Autumn (September ~ November)
- Temperature: 10℃ ~ 20℃
- Clothing: Long sleeves, jacket
- Points of interest: Fall foliage, new rice, seafood
Winter (December ~ February)
- Temperature: 0℃ ~ 10℃
- Clothing: Heavy coat, gloves, scarf
- Note: Kurobe Gorge trolley train is closed
Souvenir and Gourmet Information
Recommended Souvenirs
White Shrimp Crackers
Crackers made from white shrimp, called the jewels of Toyama Bay. Characterized by crispy texture and the refined sweetness of white shrimp.
Firefly Squid Pickled in Brine
A taste representing spring in Toyama. Perfect as a drinking snack and popular even locally.
Kurobe Spring Water
Natural water from the clear Kurobe River. Comes in bottles, making it easy to take home as a souvenir.
Kelp Products
Toyama has the highest seaweed consumption nationally. Various kelp products are available, including kelp-marinated fish and kelp tea.
Local Cuisine
Firefly Squid Dishes
Limited to spring (March ~ May). Firefly squid pot rice, firefly squid sashimi, vinegar-miso dressed firefly squid, and various other preparations are available.
White Shrimp Dishes
White shrimp rice bowl, white shrimp sashimi, white shrimp tempura, etc. Characterized by beautiful translucent appearance and sweet flavor.
Toyama Black Ramen
Noodles with concentrated black soy sauce flavor. Cherished as Toyama’s soul food.
Masu Sushi
A representative local dish of Toyama. Pressed sushi using cherry salmon, also popular as a station lunch.
Collaboration Information and Events
Past Collaboration Projects
During the anime broadcast period, collaboration projects were implemented in Kurobe City and Unazuki Hot Spring. Projects included distribution of sacred site pilgrimage maps, stamp rallies, and limited merchandise sales, attracting many fans.
How to Get Latest Information
Official Websites
- TV Anime “Zatsu Tabi – That’s Journey -” Official Website
- Kurobe City Tourism Association Homepage
- Unazuki Hot Spring Tourism Association Homepage
SNS
- Check Twitter (X) for “#Zatsu Tabi” and “#Sacred Site Pilgrimage”
- Reports from other fans’ pilgrimages are also helpful
Latest collaboration information and event details can be found on these official websites and SNS.
Accommodation Information
Ryokans and Hotels in Unazuki Hot Spring
Luxury Ryokans
Guest rooms with views of Kurobe Gorge, kaiseki cuisine using local ingredients, and hot springs offering beautiful skin benefits. Approximately 20,000 to 40,000 yen per night with two meals included.
Business Hotels
Affordable business hotels are available around Unazuki Onsen Station. Room-only or breakfast-included plans cost approximately 7,000 to 12,000 yen.
Near Kurobe Unazuki Onsen Station
Business hotels are also available near the station, convenient for Shinkansen access. Can be used as a base for sacred site pilgrimage.
Booking Tips
- Book early: Especially during fall foliage season (October ~ November), book 2-3 months in advance
- Weekday use: Rates are lower and reservations easier on weekdays compared to weekends
- Check accommodation plans: Look for special pilgrimage plans or packages including trolley train tickets
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Kurobe Dam
When visiting Kurobe City, be sure to visit Kurobe Dam. Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes by car from Unazuki Hot Spring. Japan’s largest arch dam, visitors are overwhelmed by its grand scale.
Tourist water discharge is conducted from late June through mid-October, with the spectacle of over 10 tons of water released per second.
Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route
Toyama Prefecture’s representative tourism route. From Tateyama Station to Kaminarimon Station in Nagano Prefecture, traversing mountains with elevations of 3,000m and above. Filled with points of interest including the Snow Great Wall, Mikuri Pond, and Kurobe Dam.
Operates seasonally from mid-April through late November, with April through June particularly popular for viewing the Snow Great Wall.
Toyama City Center
Around Toyama Station, tourist attractions are concentrated, including Toyama Castle, Glass Art Museum, and Masu Sushi Museum. It is recommended to visit before or after sacred site pilgrimage.
Fan Sacred Site Pilgrimage Experiences
Voices from Fans Who Actually Visited
“The landscape I saw in the work was right before my eyes, and I was deeply moved. Especially the Tateyama mountain range seen from Ikuji Coast was truly beautiful.” (Female, 20s)
“The firefly squid pot rice at Kawagashiwa was as delicious as depicted in the work. I was glad I visited during spring.” (Male, 30s)
“I did thorough research and successfully rode the trolley train. It felt like I accomplished the comeback depicted in the work.” (Female, 40s)
Tips for Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Common tips mentioned by many fans include:
- Thorough research beforehand: Following the work’s lesson, confirm operating hours and schedules
- Allow ample time: Avoid rushing and enjoy the work’s atmosphere at a leisurely pace
- Interact with locals: Chatting with shop staff may reveal interesting behind-the-scenes stories
- Choose seasons wisely: Enjoy seasonal attractions like spring firefly squid and autumn foliage
Conclusion: The Charm of “Zatsu Tabi” Toyama Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Kurobe City, Toyama Prefecture, which served as the setting for TV anime “Zatsu Tabi – That’s Journey -“, is a sacred site overflowing with charm – featuring grand nature, delicious cuisine, and heartwarming hot springs. By visiting locations appearing in the work, fans can re-experience Chika and Koyomi’s journey while simultaneously discovering Toyama Prefecture’s wonderful attractions.
The sacred site pilgrimage route beginning at Kurobe Unazuki Onsen Station and continuing through Ikuji Coast and Unazuki Hot Spring town is recommended not only for anime fans but also for those who love hot springs, nature, and gourmet cuisine. While cherishing the work’s theme of “spontaneous travel,” thorough preparation is also important to enjoy a fulfilling sacred site pilgrimage.
Through sacred site pilgrimage in Kurobe City, Toyama Prefecture, affection for the work deepens further, and new travel memories are created. Please use this article as a reference and actually experience the world of “Zatsu Tabi” firsthand.
