【Tsurikichi Sanpei】(Yokote City, Akita Prefecture)
“Tsurikichi Sanpei,” an immortal masterpiece by Takao Yaguchi, has made Yokote City in Akita Prefecture a special place for anime fans and fishing enthusiasts alike. This article comprehensively introduces pilgrimage spots in Yokote City, Akita Prefecture, known as the sacred site of Tsurikichi Sanpei.
What is Tsurikichi Sanpei? The Appeal of the Work and Its Deep Connection to Akita Prefecture
“Tsurikichi Sanpei” is a fishing manga masterpiece serialized in “Weekly Shonen Magazine” from 1973 to 1983. The author, Takao Yaguchi, is from Masuda Town in Yokote City, Akita Prefecture (now Yokote City), and the work is deeply infused with the rich nature and fishing culture of his hometown.
The protagonist Sanpei lives with his grandfather Sanpei Ichiheiji in the mountainous region of Akita Prefecture, where he demonstrates exceptional talent in fishing. His growth through serious matches with various fish such as char, yamame, and black bass has moved many readers.
Yokote City, the setting of the work, is a region blessed with a rich natural environment and clear streams. The author’s own experiences and local landscapes are woven into the work, making it a “sacred site” with special meaning for fans.
In 2008, a live-action film was produced, with location shooting conducted in Yokote City, Yuzawa City, Higashi Naruse Village in Ojun County, and Yurihonjo City, among other locations. This film adaptation brought renewed attention to the connection between the work and Akita Prefecture.
A Designated Anime Sacred Site 88 Worth Visiting in Japan
Yokote City, Akita Prefecture, has been selected for “88 Anime Sacred Sites Worth Visiting in Japan” and has become an officially recognized hub for anime tourism. This designation is part of a project launched by the Japan Anime Tourism Association in 2017, which aims to utilize locations connected to anime works as tourism resources.
Yokote Masuda Manga Art Museum and “Tsurikichi Sanpei no Sato” (Tsurikichi Sanpei Village) are registered as designated spots, with official designation plaques and memorial stamps installed at each facility. Collecting these stamps is one of the pleasures of a pilgrimage to the sacred site.
As an anime sacred site, Yokote City attracts attention from fans both domestically and internationally as a valuable place where one can experience the world of the work.
“Tsurikichi Sanpei no Sato” Experience Learning Center｜Main Spot for Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Facility Overview and History
The “Tsurikichi Sanpei no Sato” Experience Learning Center is a lodging experience exchange learning facility that opened in June 2010 (Heisei 22). It was created by renovating the former Masuda East Elementary School, which was located in the Naohanai District of Masuda Town in Yokote City, and is attracting attention as a facility created through the renovation of a closed school.
While retaining the appearance of the school building, the facility charms visitors with its unique atmosphere incorporating the world of Tsurikichi Sanpei. Numerous displays and objects related to Tsurikichi Sanpei are installed throughout the facility, making it a space truly worthy of being called a sacred site for fans of the work.
Experiences and Activities Available
At the experience learning center, visitors can enjoy agricultural and mountainous village experiences as well as outdoor activities. Specific activities available include:
- Fishing Experience: Visitors can experience stream fishing for char, yamame, and other stream fish in fishing ponds around the facility
- Nature Walks: Walking along maintained nature trails, visitors can experience Akita’s mountain scenery as depicted in the work
- Obstacle Course: Outdoor athletic facilities utilizing natural terrain offer activities enjoyable for everyone from children to adults
- Agricultural Experience: Seasonal farm work experience programs
- Lodging Experience: Overnight stays are possible in lodging rooms created from renovated school classrooms
The fishing experience in particular is a valuable opportunity to experience the appeal of fishing just like the work’s protagonist, Sanpei. Equipment rental and instruction are provided so that even beginners can enjoy the experience with confidence.
Facility Information and Access
Location: 101 Shichimageishita, Naohanai, Masuda Town, Yokote City, Akita Prefecture
Access Methods:
- Approximately 20 minutes by car from JR Jumonji Station
- Approximately 45 minutes by car from JR Yokote Station
- Approximately 30 minutes by car from Yokote IC on the Akita Expressway
Business Hours and Fees:
Prior reservation is recommended for facility use. For details on lodging and experience programs, please contact Yokote City’s official website or the facility directly.
Surrounding Environment:
The facility is located within the Tenkasen Sports and Recreation Area, surrounded by abundant nature. Along the prefectural road 274, signs and objects related to Tsurikichi Sanpei are scattered about, adding to the atmosphere of a sacred site pilgrimage.
Yokote Masuda Manga Art Museum｜Experiencing the World of Takao Yaguchi
Characteristics of the Museum
The Yokote Masuda Manga Art Museum is known as Japan’s only manga art museum with a permanent exhibition of “original paintings.” The Takao Yaguchi corner is particularly well-equipped, with many original paintings and materials from Tsurikichi Sanpei on display.
The museum allows visitors to learn in detail about Yaguchi’s background, the creative process behind the work, and his connection to Akita Prefecture. The delicate brushwork in the original paintings and the thoughts embedded in the work can be felt up close—a precious facility.
Exhibition Contents and Highlights
Permanent Exhibitions:
- Original painting collection of Takao Yaguchi’s works
- Displays recreating famous scenes from Tsurikichi Sanpei
- Tools and materials used in work creation
- Introduction to other manga works set in Akita Prefecture
Special Exhibitions:
Periodic special exhibitions are held, featuring special collections related to Tsurikichi Sanpei as well as exhibitions of works by other renowned manga artists.
Experience Corner:
Manga creation experiences and workshops are held, allowing visitors to experience manga culture up close.
Access and Usage Information
Location: 285 Shinmachi, Masuda, Masuda Town, Yokote City, Akita Prefecture
Access:
- Approximately 10 minutes by car from JR Jumonji Station
- Approximately 25 minutes by car from JR Yokote Station
- Approximately 5 minutes on foot from Masuda Bus Stop
Opening Hours: Usually 9:00 AM～5:00 PM (Last admission 4:30 PM)
Closed Days: Third Tuesday of each month (if a holiday, the following day), year-end and new year holidays
Admission:
- General: 800 yen
- High School Students: 400 yen
- Junior High School Students and Under: Free
(Fees may differ when special exhibitions are held)
The museum is also close to the Masuda townscape preservation district, and visiting it in combination with a walk through this important traditional building group preservation district is also recommended.
Tenkasen Sports and Recreation Area｜A Sacred Site in Nature
Overview of the Area
The Tenkasen Sports and Recreation Area is a vast natural park that forms the core of “Tsurikichi Sanpei no Sato.” With fully equipped attractions that can be enjoyed throughout the four seasons, it is ideal for visits by families and groups.
It is a place where new excitement and discoveries can be made together with friends and family in the open sky and great nature, and is beloved by local residents.
Main Facilities and Activities
Fishing Pond:
Visitors can enjoy the atmosphere of authentic stream fishing in fishing ponds stocked with stream fish such as char and yamame. It is also possible to cook and eat the fish you catch on the spot.
Flower and Tree Garden:
The flower and tree garden, where beautiful flowers bloom with the seasons, is an ideal spot for walking and picnicking. Spring brings cherry blossoms, summer brings fresh greenery, autumn brings colored leaves—visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of each season.
Athletic Course:
An athletic course that utilizes the natural terrain is equipped for enjoyment by both children and adults.
Nature Walking Trails:
Walking along well-maintained trails, visitors can experience Akita’s mountain scenery as depicted in the work. Bird watching and forest bathing are also possible.
Campground:
With tent sites and bungalows equipped, visitors can enjoy nature while staying overnight.
Seasonal Ways to Enjoy the Area
Spring (March～May):
The season of fresh greenery that arrives with snowmelt. The stream fishing season begins, and the activity of char and yamame increases.
Summer (June～August):
A season when outdoor activities in the verdant forest are comfortable. It is ideal for camping and river play.
Autumn (September～November):
A season of beautiful autumn leaves. The sight of Akita’s mountains changing color is spectacular and ideal for photography.
Winter (December～February):
There are unique ways to enjoy the season, such as walking in a snow-covered landscape or snowshoeing.
Pilgrimage Model Courses｜Efficient Ways to Explore
Day Trip Course (Approx. 6-8 hours)
9:00 Yokote Masuda Manga Art Museum
Visit the museum first thing in the morning. You can view the exhibitions at leisure while avoiding crowds. Time required: approx. 1.5～2 hours
11:30 Lunch in Masuda Town
Enjoy Akita’s local cuisine at restaurants in the Masuda townscape preservation district area. Inaniwa udon and Yokote yakisoba are recommended.
1:00 PM Transfer to “Tsurikichi Sanpei no Sato” Experience Learning Center
Approximately 20 minutes by car.
1:30 PM Facility Exhibition Viewing and Tenkasen Area Exploration
Enjoy facility exhibitions, fishing experiences, nature walks, and more. Time required: approx. 3～4 hours
5:00 PM Return
2-Day, 1-Night Course (More Deeply Experiencing the Sacred Site)
Day 1
- 10:00 AM Yokote Masuda Manga Art Museum
- 12:00 PM Lunch and townscape walk in Masuda Town
- 2:00 PM Check-in at “Tsurikichi Sanpei no Sato” Experience Learning Center
- 3:00 PM Fishing experience and nature walk
- 6:00 PM Dinner (featuring local ingredients)
- Evening: Stargazing and night nature experiences
Day 2
- 8:00 AM Morning walk
- 9:00 AM Breakfast
- 10:00 AM Check-out
- 10:30 AM Tour of surrounding fishing spots
- 12:00 PM Bathe at local hot spring facility and have lunch
- 2:00 PM Return
Nearby Fishing Spots
For those wishing to enjoy authentic stream fishing like that depicted in the work, the following spots are also recommended:
- Naruseriver: A clear stream inhabited by char and yamame
- Kaiseriver: A fishing spot flowing through Yokote City
- Yao River System: A large river where various fish species can be caught
However, when fishing in these rivers, it is necessary to purchase fishing licenses and confirm closed seasons. Check information at local fishing tackle shops and fisheries cooperatives.
Access Methods and Detailed Transportation Information
Access by Public Transportation
From Tokyo:
- Transfer to the Akita Shinkansen via the Tohoku Shinkansen, get off at JR Yokote Station (approx. 3 hours 30 minutes)
- From Yokote Station, access each facility by rental car or taxi
From Sendai:
- Get off at JR Yokote Station via the Akita Shinkansen (approx. 2 hours)
- Or get off at JR Jumonji Station via local train
Intercity Bus:
Bus routes serve Yokote City and the Masuda area, but as service is limited, it is necessary to confirm the timetable in advance.
Access by Automobile
From Tokyo:
- Via the Tohoku Expressway～Akita Expressway to Yokote IC (approx. 6 hours)
- Approximately 20～30 minutes from Yokote IC to each facility
From Sendai:
- Via the Tohoku Expressway～Akita Expressway to Yokote IC (approx. 3 hours)
From Akita Airport:
- Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes by car
GPS Coordinates:
- Yokote Masuda Manga Art Museum: 285 Shinmachi, Masuda, Masuda Town, Yokote City, Akita Prefecture
- Tsurikichi Sanpei no Sato Experience Learning Center: 101 Shichimageishita, Naohanai, Masuda Town, Yokote City, Akita Prefecture
Rental Car Information
For a pilgrimage, a car is most convenient. Multiple rental car companies are available around JR Yokote Station and Akita Airport. Reservations are often filled during busy seasons, so advance booking is recommended.
Lodging Facilities and Recommended Hot Springs
Lodging Facilities Near the Sacred Site
“Tsurikichi Sanpei no Sato” Experience Learning Center:
A precious facility where you can lodge at the sacred site. The lodging rooms, created from renovated classrooms, have a nostalgic atmosphere reminiscent of school trips.
Hotels in Yokote City:
- Diverse options ranging from business hotels to hot spring inns
- The area around Yokote Station is convenient with many restaurants
Inns and Lodges in Masuda Town:
- Exchange with local people is enjoyable
- Experience Akita’s local cuisine
Hot Spring Facilities in the Area
Akita Prefecture is a treasure trove of hot springs. Here are some hot spring facilities where you can relieve the fatigue of your sacred site pilgrimage.
Yuppuru:
A day-use hot spring facility in Yokote City. It features spacious outdoor baths and saunas.
Doroyu Onsen:
A hidden gem hot spring in Yuzawa City. Worth the extra travel to experience this renowned bath.
Akinomiya Onsen District:
A hot spring area in Yuzawa City. With multiple inns, each offering a different spring quality to enjoy.
Masuda Onsen:
A hot spring facility in Masuda Town. Conveniently located to stop by after your sacred site pilgrimage.
Yokote City Tourism Attractions and Food Culture
Masuda Townscape Preservation District
Masuda Town in Yokote City has been designated as an Important Traditional Building Group Preservation District, and the townscape of merchant houses dating back to the Edo period remains. What is distinctive is a storehouse called “uchigura,” which features lavish decorations invisible from outside.
Walking through this area along with a visit to the manga museum allows for a deeper understanding of the historical background of Tsurikichi Sanpei.
Yokote Yakisoba
A local specialty of Yokote City, Yokote yakisoba is famous. It is characterized by thick straight noodles, slightly sweet sauce, and a fried egg on top. Numerous Yokote yakisoba restaurants are found throughout the city and are recommended for meals during your pilgrimage to the sacred site.
Kamakura Festival
The “Kamakura” snow festival of Yokote, held every February, is a traditional event with approximately 450 years of history. Visiting during this period in winter can provide a special experience.
Akita Local Cuisine
Kiritanpo:
Akita’s representative local dish made by molding mashed rice around a stick and grilling it. It can be enjoyed as a hot pot dish.
Inaniwa Udon:
A specialty product of southern Akita Prefecture. It is characterized by a smooth texture created through hand-drawn noodle production methods.
Iburi Gakko:
Pickled radish smoked over a hearth fire. It has a unique aroma and flavor.
Higo Jidori:
A local chicken breed representing Akita. It can be enjoyed in kiritanpo hot pot and parent-child rice bowls.
Tips for Enjoying Your Sacred Site Pilgrimage and Proper Etiquette
Advance Preparation
Study the Work in Advance:
Reading the original manga, watching the anime, and viewing the live-action film before your visit will enhance your enjoyment of the pilgrimage. In particular, it is recommended to read the relevant episodes of the original manga.
Confirm Reservations:
Lodging at the experience learning center and experience programs may require advance reservations. Particularly during weekends and holidays when the facility is crowded, booking early is advisable.
Clothing and Belongings:
- Comfortable clothing and shoes (for nature walks and athletic activities)
- Change of clothes if you plan to fish
- Insect repellent spray (in summer)
- Rain gear (weather changes quickly in mountainous areas)
- Camera (to record memories)
Pilgrimage Etiquette
Consideration for Local Residents:
The sacred site is also a place where local people live. Avoid loud conversations and trespassing on private property.
Nature Conservation:
The work’s charm stems from its rich natural environment. Always take your trash with you, and be careful not to harm plants and animals.
Photo Etiquette:
Photography may be prohibited in certain areas of the facility. Additionally, be considerate so that other visitors do not appear in your photos.
Fishing Rules:
When fishing in rivers, always purchase a fishing license and follow rules such as closed seasons and minimum fish sizes.
Budget-Friendly Pilgrimage Methods
Circuit Passes and Discount Tickets:
Using circuit passes and discount tickets issued by Yokote City and Akita Prefecture tourism associations allows you to visit multiple facilities at a lower cost.
Point Services:
Using points from travel reservation websites and credit cards can help reduce lodging and transportation costs.
Off-Season Visits:
Visiting outside the peak tourism season can lower lodging costs. However, be aware that winter roads may be snow-covered and require careful driving.
Event Information and Latest News
Regularly Held Events
Throughout the year, various events are held in Yokote City and at “Tsurikichi Sanpei no Sato.”
Fishing Competitions:
Fishing competitions held in the areas surrounding the experience learning center are open to both beginners and advanced participants.
Nature Experience Classes:
Nature observation sessions and agricultural experience programs held seasonally.
Takao Yaguchi Memorial Special Exhibition:
Special exhibitions held periodically at the Masuda Manga Art Museum.
How to Check Latest Information
Official Websites:
- Yokote City Official Tourism Website
- Yokote Masuda Manga Art Museum Official Website
- Tenkasen Sports and Recreation Area Official Website
SNS:
Official SNS accounts for each facility regularly post event information and latest news.
Tourism Association:
Contacting the Masuda Town Tourism Association or Yokote City Tourism Association will provide detailed information.
Recording and Preserving Memories of Your Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Photo Spots
Sanpei Statue in Front of the Experience Learning Center:
The object of Sanpei at the facility entrance is a standard photography spot.
Signs Along Prefectural Road 274:
Signs and objects related to Tsurikichi Sanpei scattered along the roadside are not to be missed.
Catch Photos at Fishing Ponds:
Memorial photos taken with fish you’ve caught. Experience the feeling of being the work’s protagonist.
Masuda Manga Art Museum Exhibitions:
Photography of original paintings and exhibition items in permitted areas.
Stamp Rally
You can collect official stamps from the Anime Sacred Site 88 designation and original stamps from each facility. Prepare a dedicated stamp sheet to keep as a memento.
Sharing on SNS
When sharing memories of your sacred site pilgrimage on SNS, using hashtags such as “#TsurikichSanpei,” “#AkitaSacredSitePilgrimage,” and “#YokoteCity” will help you connect with fellow enthusiasts.
Conclusion: A Special Experience at the Sacred Site of Tsurikichi Sanpei
Yokote City in Akita Prefecture holds special meaning for fans of Tsurikichi Sanpei. It is the hometown of the author, Takao Yaguchi, and the setting of the work, with its rich natural surroundings still preserved today.
At the “Tsurikichi Sanpei no Sato” Experience Learning Center, visitors can lodge and enjoy fishing experiences while experiencing the world of the work. At the Yokote Masuda Manga Art Museum, precious original paintings can be viewed. At the Tenkasen Sports and Recreation Area, visitors can enjoy seasonal activities in nature.
Through a pilgrimage to the sacred site, not only does your understanding of the work deepen, but you also encounter Akita Prefecture’s rich nature and culture, as well as the warmth of its people. Why not create unforgettable memories at the sacred site of Tsurikichi Sanpei in Yokote City, Akita Prefecture?
Don’t forget to make proper advance preparations and show consideration for the region. Enjoy a fulfilling pilgrimage to the sacred site. For all fans who love the work, Yokote City in Akita Prefecture is a special place worth visiting.
