“I’ve Been Blessed with a Wonderful Comedy” Precious Friends Complete Holy Site Pilgrimage Guide: Comprehensive Explanation of All Spots in Nagatoro Town, Saitama Prefecture
The film “I’ve Been Blessed with a Wonderful Comedy: Precious Friends” (commonly known as Wataten Purefure), released on October 14, 2022, became a beloved work among many fans as a completely new theatrical film in the popular anime series based on the original work by Nanatsu Mukuroki. The setting for this work is the Chichibu area, centered on Nagatoro Town in Chichibu District, Saitama Prefecture. The beautiful natural landscape and the warm story within the film merge wonderfully, and many fans have been visiting for pilgrimage immediately after its release.
This article provides detailed explanations of all holy site spots that appear in the film, and comprehensively delivers practical information for those actually making pilgrimages.
About the Film “I’ve Been Blessed with a Wonderful Comedy: Precious Friends”
“I’ve Been Blessed with a Wonderful Comedy: Precious Friends” is a completely new theatrical film version of the television anime “I’ve Been Blessed with a Wonderful Comedy.” The story depicts five close friends—Hana, Hinata, Noa, Koi, and Natone, all fifth-graders—visiting Nagatoro Town in Saitama Prefecture with Hinata’s older sister Miyako, experiencing summer festivals and river boat rides.
Released by Kadokawa ANIMATION, this work received high praise as a healing piece in which the charm of the characters and the beautiful scenery of Nagatoro merge perfectly, despite its runtime of approximately 60 minutes. In 2024, it was selected for “88 Japanese Anime Holy Sites You Should Visit,” and Nagatoro Town has gained attention as a new anime holy site.
Why Nagatoro Town Was Chosen as the Setting
Nagatoro Town is a nature-rich tourist destination located in the northwestern part of Saitama Prefecture in Chichibu District. It is known as an area with attractions throughout the seasons, including the scenic spot called “Iwatataami” created by the clear waters of the Arakawa River—a nationally designated scenic site and natural monument—as well as line boat rides, Mount Hodosan, and cherry blossom-lined streets.
In the film, the natural beauty of Nagatoro and the region’s festival culture play important roles, serving as a perfect stage for the characters’ growth and story of friendship. The location is also ideal as a pilgrimage site, with good access from the urban center—approximately 2 hours from Ikebukuro via the Chichibu Railway.
Basic Information and Access for Holy Site Pilgrimage
How to Access Nagatoro Town
By Train
- From Ikebukuro Station to Seibu Chichibu Station via the Seibu Ikebukuro Line in approximately 80 minutes (express trains)
- Transfer to the Chichibu Railway from Seibu Chichibu Station, approximately 20 minutes to Nagatoro Station
- Total travel time: approximately 2 hours
By Car
- Approximately 30 minutes via National Route 140 from “Hanazono IC” on the Kan-etsu Expressway
- Multiple parking lots are available around Nagatoro Station and near Iwatataami (both paid and free)
Optimal Time for Pilgrimage
While the film is set during summer in Nagatoro, pilgrimages can be enjoyed year-round.
- Spring (late March to April): Nagatoro is famous as a cherry blossom spot. The cherry tree-lined street Kita-sakura-dori is impressive.
- Summer (July to August): Same season as the film. The best time to enjoy line boat rides.
- Autumn (November): Known for beautiful autumn foliage, with particularly stunning views around Iwatataami.
- Winter (December to February): Fewer tourists, allowing for quiet pilgrimages. The season for wintersweet flowers is also attractive.
Notes for Pilgrimage
- Entry to residential areas and private property is strictly prohibited.
- Be considerate of surroundings when taking photos.
- Always take your trash with you.
- Do not forget gratitude and respect for local residents.
- Be conscious of contributing to the local economy through shopping at stores.
Detailed Guide to Major Holy Sites
Nagatoro Station (Chichibu Railway)
At the beginning of the film, Miyako’s group arrive at Nagatoro Station. The station building of the Chichibu Railway is a quaint wooden structure that is faithfully recreated in the film.
Points of Interest
- Station building exterior: retro-atmosphere wooden station building
- Platform: Recreation of the scene where Hana and others alight is possible
- Station plaza: A tourist information center is available where you can obtain pilgrimage maps
Pilgrimage Points
Photographing the station building from directly in front will give you an angle close to the film scene. Morning hours provide good lighting for photography.
Surrounding Information
- Tourist information center where you can obtain Nagatoro tourism maps
- Coin lockers available (convenient for storing large baggage)
- Restrooms available
Iwatataami (Nagatoro Line Boat Ride Boarding Area Vicinity)
The most impressive setting in the film is “Iwatataami,” a riverbed of crystalline schist created by the clear waters of the Arakawa River, designated as a nationally protected scenic site and natural monument.
Points of Interest
- Expansive rocky riverbed: The setting for scenes where Hana and others walk in the film
- Chichibu Akakabes on opposite bank: Beautiful red-brown cliff walls
- Clear waters of the Arakawa: High transparency river flow
Pilgrimage Points
You can actually walk on the rocks of Iwatataami. The film features multiple scenes of the five characters—Hana, Hinata, Noa, Koi, and Natone—walking across Iwatataami. Particularly, scenes of them on flat rocks along the river allow you to experience the film’s emotion anew by standing in the same location.
Photography Tips
- Afternoon hours provide better backlighting for photography
- Rocks are slippery; shoes with good traction are recommended
- During high water, avoid getting too close to the water’s edge
Access
Approximately 5 minutes on foot from Nagatoro Station. From the station, proceed to the right and through the shopping street to reach the destination.
Nagatoro Line Boat Ride
The climax scene of the film features a crucial role for Nagatoro’s famous “Line Boat Ride,” where the characters ride traditional wooden boats down the Arakawa River.
Experience Information
- Operating period: Year-round (closed during high water and bad weather)
- Duration: A course approximately 20 minutes, B course approximately 20 minutes, full course approximately 40 minutes
- Fare: Adults 1,800 yen to 3,300 yen (varies by course)
- Reservations: Recommended during peak seasons
Pilgrimage Points
Actually experiencing the line boat ride allows you to re-experience scenes from the film. Listening to the boat operator’s explanations while viewing Iwatataami and Chichibu Akakabes from the water’s surface will be the ultimate highlight of your pilgrimage.
Photography Points
- Boarding area vicinity: Ideal for pre-departure commemorative photos
- Views from the boat: Iwatataami and surrounding mountains
- Iwatataami after disembarking: Possible to photograph at angles similar to film scenes
Nagatoro Shopping Street
Along the road from Nagatoro Station to Iwatataami stretches a charming shopping street. The film features this in the background, with scenes of Miyako’s group walking through it.
Points of Interest
- Retro-atmosphere shop buildings
- Souvenir shops for Chichibu specialties
- Eating establishments (buckwheat noodles, udon, shaved ice, etc.)
Gourmet Information
- “Asami Refrigeration”: Famous for natural ice shaved ice (long waits during summer)
- “Soba Restaurant Tajima”: Hand-made buckwheat noodles are popular
- “Choseikan”: Chichibu specialty pork miso bowl
Souvenirs
- Chichibu specialty sweets
- Wataten collaboration goods (during tie-up period)
- Local sake from Nagatoro
Hodosan Shrine
A representative shrine of Nagatoro that also appears as an important location in the film. It received a one-star rating in the Michelin Green Guide Japan.
Points of Interest
- Main hall: Shrine building with beautiful carvings
- Approach: Stone steps provide a charming entrance
- Views from the grounds: Panoramic view of Nagatoro town
Pilgrimage Points
Festival scenes around the shrine appear in the film. Visiting during the actual Nagatoro Funatama Festival (August 15) will allow you to feel the film’s atmosphere more.
Access
Approximately 15 minutes on foot from Nagatoro Station. Continue through the shopping street and climb a gentle slope.
Hodosan Ropeway
To continue to the mountain peak from the shrine, using the Hodosan Ropeway is convenient. The summit offers spectacular views of the Chichibu Basin.
Spots Within Chichibu City
While the film primarily features Nagatoro Town, some spots in the adjacent Chichibu City also appear.
Chichibu Shrine
An ancient shrine known as the chief shrine of the Chichibu region. The Chichibu Night Festival in December is one of Japan’s three largest float festivals.
Chichibu Festival Museum
Displays float cars and materials from the Chichibu Night Festival. Helps in understanding the background of festival scenes in the film.
Michi no Eki Chichibu
A souvenir spot where Chichibu specialty products are gathered. Ideal for a rest break.
Vicinity of Minano Town
Minano Town, which borders Nagatoro Town to the south, also appears as part of the film’s setting.
Oyabana Bridge
A Chichibu Railway iron bridge spanning the Arakawa. It appears in the film as a distant background.
Beauty Mountain Park
Famous for cherry blossoms and autumn foliage. A viewpoint overlooking the entire Nagatoro area, serving as reference for landscape scenes in the film.
Tie-Up Projects with Nagatoro Town
Nagatoro Town actively pursued tie-up projects coinciding with the film’s release.
Stamp Rally
During the film’s release, a stamp rally visiting major spots within Nagatoro Town was held. Limited merchandise was given to participants, proving popular with fans.
Collaboration Goods
- Original clear files
- Pilgrimage maps
- Limited badge pins
- Postcard sets
These were sold at Nagatoro Station Tourist Information Center and cooperating stores throughout town.
Life-Size Panel Installation
Life-size character panels were installed at Nagatoro Station and around Iwatataami, becoming popular commemorative photography spots.
Local Store Cooperation
Shopping street restaurants and souvenir shops offered “Wataten” collaboration menus and goods. Town-wide efforts to promote the work were undertaken.
Efficient Pilgrimage Model Courses
Half-Day Course (approximately 4 hours)
9:00 Arrival at Nagatoro Station
↓ 5 minutes on foot
9:10 Iwatataami exploration and photography (60 minutes)
↓ 5 minutes on foot
10:15 Shopping street exploration and shopping (45 minutes)
↓ 15 minutes on foot
11:15 Hodosan Shrine visit (30 minutes)
↓ 15 minutes on foot
12:00 Lunch in shopping street (60 minutes)
↓ 5 minutes on foot
13:05 Departure from Nagatoro Station
Full-Day Enjoyment Course (approximately 8 hours)
9:00 Arrival at Nagatoro Station
↓ 5 minutes on foot
9:10 Iwatataami exploration (60 minutes)
↓ Immediate
10:10 Nagatoro Line Boat Ride experience (60 minutes)
↓ 5 minutes on foot
11:15 Shopping street exploration (45 minutes)
↓ Immediate
12:00 Lunch (60 minutes)
↓ 15 minutes on foot
13:15 Hodosan Shrine visit (30 minutes)
↓ Using ropeway
14:00 Hodosan mountain peak sightseeing (60 minutes)
↓ Using ropeway
15:15 Souvenir shopping in shopping street and café break (90 minutes)
↓ 5 minutes on foot
16:45 Departure from Nagatoro Station
Chichibu Area Circuit Course (1 night, 2 days)
Day 1
- Morning: Pilgrimage to major Nagatoro spots
- Afternoon: Line boat ride experience, Hodosan sightseeing
- Evening: Move to Chichibu city area, overnight stay
- Night: Enjoy Chichibu hot springs
Day 2
- Morning: Chichibu Shrine and Chichibu Festival Museum visits
- Afternoon: Holy sites in Minano Town vicinity
- Evening: Purchase souvenirs at roadside station, then head home
Tips for Enjoying Holy Site Pilgrimage More
Film Preparation and Review
Viewing the film in advance through Blu-ray, DVD, or streaming services (such as Amazon Prime Video), memorizing the scenes and locations in your mind will make the pilgrimage more enjoyable. You will also notice many new discoveries at the actual location.
Camera and Photography Equipment
- Smartphone photos are sufficient, but a single-lens reflex or mirrorless camera allows for more beautiful photography
- A wide-angle lens makes it easier to express the vastness of Iwatataami
- Spare batteries are essential (especially in winter)
- Be cautious with tripod use during crowded times
Clothing and Belongings
- Comfortable walking shoes (rocks at Iwatataami are slippery)
- Season-appropriate clothing (heat protection in summer, cold protection in winter)
- Hat, sunscreen (in summer)
- Beverages (vending machines are concentrated around the station)
- Rain gear (to prepare for weather changes)
Information Gathering via SNS
Searching hashtags such as “#wataten pilgrimage” and “#nagatoro” on Twitter and Instagram reveals the latest information and photography spots from other pilgrims.
Interaction with Local Community
Local shopkeepers and tourist information staff are well-versed in regional attractions. Active communication may yield information not found in guidebooks.
Nagatoro’s Seasons and Annual Events
Spring (March to May)
- Late March to early April: Cherry blossoms bloom. The Kita-sakura-dori cherry tree-lined street features approximately 3,000 blossoms.
- Mid-April: Nagatoro Cherry Blossom Festival held
- May: Fresh greenery season. Ideal for hiking
Summer (June to August)
- July to August: Peak season for line boat rides
- August 15: Nagatoro Funatama Festival (model for the film’s festival scene)
- Mid-August: Lantern floating ceremony
Autumn (September to November)
- Early to late November: Peak autumn foliage. Particularly beautiful around Iwatataami
- Mid-November: Nagatoro Autumn Foliage Festival held
- November 23: Chichibu Night Festival (Chichibu City)
Winter (December to February)
- Late December to February: Hodosan wintersweet at peak bloom
- January to February: Ice column light-up displays (various locations in Chichibu area)
- Fewer tourists allow for quiet pilgrimages
Accommodation Information
Accommodations in Nagatoro Town
Inns and Hotels
- Choseikan: Historic inn, Chichibu cuisine available
- Yohokutei: Japanese-style inn along the Arakawa River
- Hana no Omotenashi Choseikan: Renovated comfortable facilities
Guesthouses and Pensions
- Relatively reasonable price range
- Intimate atmosphere
Accommodations in Chichibu City
More options available, ranging from business hotels to hot spring inns.
Hot Spring Inns
- Seibu Chichibu Station-Front Hot Spring Matsuri no Yu: Day-use hot springs also available
- Natural Farm City Farm Hotel: Accommodations in the midst of nature
Business Hotels
- Multiple options around Chichibu and Seibu Chichibu stations
- Relatively reasonable pricing
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Nearby spots worth visiting alongside holy site pilgrimage:
Mitsutake Shrine
A mountain shrine at 1,100 meters elevation located deep in Chichibu. Known as one of the Kanto region’s premier power spots. Approximately 1 hour by car from Nagatoro.
Chichibu Muse Park
A large park facility. The observation deck offers magnificent views, and seasonal flowers can be enjoyed year-round.
Hitsuji Mountain Park
Famous for spring moss phlox. From mid-April to early May, the entire park becomes a pink floral carpet.
Chichibu Pilgrimage
A pilgrimage of the Chichibu Thirty-Four Kannon Temples. Experience history and culture.
The Film’s Appeal and Its Relationship with Holy Sites
One reason “I’ve Been Blessed with a Wonderful Comedy: Precious Friends” is beloved by many fans is the perfect fusion of the characters’ charm and the beautiful scenery of Nagatoro serving as the setting. The story of five individually distinctive girls—Hana, Hinata, Noa, Koi, and Natone—deepening their friendship within Nagatoro’s nature warms viewers’ hearts. Particularly, scenes at Iwatataami and river-riding scenes bring out Nagatoro’s appeal maximally, causing many film viewers to feel “I want to visit in person,” driving pilgrimage.
The warm worldview of Nanatsu Mukuroki’s original work and the healing nature of Nagatoro create a synergistic effect, generating a flow of many fans visiting Nagatoro through pilgrimage. Notably, Nagatoro Town is actively pursuing tie-ups with the work, establishing a good relationship between fans and the community.
Contribution to Regional Economy and Sustainable Holy Site Pilgrimage
With selection for 2024’s “88 Japanese Anime Holy Sites You Should Visit,” Nagatoro Town gained a new pillar for tourism. Local shopping streets show welcoming voices toward “Wataten” fans, with one shopkeeper reportedly commenting, “It feels like grandchildren have come.”
Holy site pilgrimage carries meaning beyond mere tourism. Fans visit regions with love for the work, shop at local stores, and patronize dining establishments, contributing to the regional economy. Simultaneously, the region’s charm is conveyed nationwide through the work, creating a positive cycle attracting new tourists.
Sustainable holy site pilgrimage requires mutual understanding and respect between fans and communities. Manner-abiding pilgrimages, gratitude for the region, and active contribution to the regional economy will increase long-term holy site value.
Conclusion: To Nagatoro Where Angels Have Descended
Nagatoro Town in Saitama Prefecture, the holy site of “I’ve Been Blessed with a Wonderful Comedy: Precious Friends,” is an ideal pilgrimage location where beautiful natural scenery, warm local people, and the work’s worldview harmonize wonderfully.
The majestic views of Iwatataami, the clear waters of the Arakawa, historic shrines and temples, and delicious Chichibu cuisine—all allow you to feel Hana’s story more deeply. Re-experiencing the heartwarming impression from viewing the film at actual locations will deepen your love for the work further.
The accessibility of approximately 2 hours from the urban center is another attraction. While day trips are sufficient, spending a night and leisurely exploring the Chichibu area is also recommended. Nagatoro reveals different faces through the seasons, offering new discoveries with each visit.
Why not embark on a holy site pilgrimage to Nagatoro, where “Wataten” angels have descended? Surely, a wonderful, heart-warming experience awaits you there.
