【A Place Further Than the Universe】(Tatebayashi City, Gunma Prefecture)
What is “A Place Further Than the Universe”?
The TV anime “A Place Further Than the Universe” (commonly known as “Yorimoi”) follows Kimari Tamaaki, the protagonist who attends high school in Gunma Prefecture, as she meets Shirase Kobuchizawa and other classmates who are heading to Antarctica to find Kimari’s missing mother. It is a “girls’ high school Antarctic youth graphic story” about their journey to Antarctica.
The series aired from January to March 2018 and captivated many fans with its moving story and meticulous animation. The title derives from a remark made by former astronaut Mamoru Mohri, who said “Antarctica’s Showa Base is farther than space.”
Important spots in the work, such as “Tatebayashi Station,” “Tsutsujigaoka Park,” and “Morinseiji Temple” within Tatebayashi City, are depicted faithfully, and Tatebayashi City has been selected for six consecutive years as part of “88 Japanese anime sacred sites worth visiting.” It is the only “anime sacred site” in Gunma Prefecture where local volunteers collaborate with the community for regional revitalization.
Reason Tatebayashi City Became the Stage and Its Position in the Work
Tatebayashi City primarily serves as the stage for the domestic part (Episodes 1-5), depicted as the hometown of characters including Kimari. The cityscape of Tatebayashi City in Gunma Prefecture is reproduced extremely faithfully within the work, and the appearance of actual landscapes in anime imagery provides viewers with a strong sense of presence.
The four main characters (Kimari Tamaaki, Shirase Kobuchizawa, Hinata Miyake, and Yuzuki Shiraishi) have been commissioned as “Tatebayashi Anime Ambassadors,” the first of their kind in Tatebayashi City, demonstrating a deep connection with the community.
Sacred Sites Around Tatebayashi Station
Tatebayashi Station
Tatebayashi Station is the most frequently appearing important spot in the work. As a Tobu Railway station, scenes of characters using it multiple times are depicted.
Access Information:
- Major station served by the Tobu Isesaki Line, Tobu Sano Line, and Tobu Koizumi Line
- About 70 minutes by Limited Express Ryomou from Asakusa Station, Tokyo
- Interior and plaza of the station appear in the work
Inside the station, displays and posters related to “A Place Further Than the Universe” may be posted, making it an ideal starting point for sacred site pilgrimage. There is also a tourist information center in front of the station where you can obtain a sacred site pilgrimage map.
Area Around the East Exit of Tatebayashi Station
The shopping streets and townscape around the east exit of the station also appear in the work. They are used in everyday scenes where characters walk, allowing you to experience the work’s worldview by actually visiting.
Tsutsujigaoka Park: A Symbolic Spot in the Work
Tsutsujigaoka Park is a symbolic spot where important scenes unfold in the work. Scenes around the gazebo (azumaya), in particular, have left a lasting impression on many fans.
Park Features:
- Nationally designated scenic spot with approximately 100 varieties and 10,000 azalea plants
- Historic park continuing from the Edo period
- Located on the shore of Lake Shionuma in a nature-rich environment
- In the work, the gazebo appears in important conversation scenes between characters
Highlights:
- Gazebo: Used in important scenes such as conversations between Shirase and Kimari
- Lake Shionuma scenery: Beautiful waterside landscape faithfully reproduced in the work
- Walking paths: You can actually retrace the paths the characters walked
Access:
- About 30 minutes on foot from Tatebayashi Station
- By bus from Tatebayashi Station to “Tsutsujigaoka Park” stop
- Parking available (paid during azalea festival season)
Sign boards marking stage spots are installed throughout the park, allowing you to confirm which scenes were filmed at each location as you visit.
Morinseiji Temple: The Fusion of Tanuki Legend and the Work
Morinseiji Temple is a Soto Zen temple known for the legend of “Bunbuku Chagama” (Lucky Teapot) and appears impressively in the work. The temple grounds are lined with numerous tanuki stone statues, creating a unique atmosphere.
Characteristics of Morinseiji Temple:
- Historic temple founded in the Muromachi period
- Setting of the “Bunbuku Chagama” folk tale
- Over 20 tanuki statues scattered throughout the grounds
- Appears in scenes of the approach and temple grounds in the work
Highlights as a Sacred Site:
- Approach: Can recreate scenes where characters walked
- Tanuki statues: Distinctive landscape that also appears in the work
- Temple gate: Impressive gate reflecting history
- Temple grounds: Serene atmosphere matching the work’s worldview
Access:
- About 10 minutes on foot from “Morinseiji-mae Station” on the Tobu Isesaki Line
- About 20 minutes on foot from Tatebayashi Station
- Free parking available
Morinseiji-mae Station itself also appears in the work, and the path from the station to the temple is popular as a sacred site pilgrimage course.
Other Major Sacred Sites
Morinseiji-mae Station
A small station on the Tobu Isesaki Line, but used in important scenes in the work. The rustic atmosphere of the unmanned station enhances the work’s worldview.
Features:
- Station building and interior appearing in the work
- The view from the platform faithfully reproduced
- The landscape in front of the station also appears in the work
Shopping Streets and Townscapes Throughout Tatebayashi City
The shopping streets and residential areas depicting the daily lives of the characters also use actual scenery from Tatebayashi City.
Main Appearing Spots:
- Shopping street scenery
- Residential street roads
- Pedestrian bridges
- Areas around convenience stores
These spots are also living spaces for local residents, so it is important to maintain proper etiquette and visit quietly during pilgrimage.
Tatebayashi City’s Official Support for Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Installation of Stage Spot Signs
Tatebayashi City has installed “stage spot signs” at major locations throughout the city. These signs include photos and explanations of which scenes from the work were filmed at each spot, making sacred site pilgrimage even more enjoyable.
Provision of Sacred Site Pilgrimage Maps
The Tatebayashi Tourism Association and tourist information centers distribute “A Place Further Than the Universe” sacred site pilgrimage maps for free. These maps include:
- Location information for major spots
- Scenes where they appear in the work
- Access methods to each spot
- Time estimates for each location
This allows you to enjoy sacred site pilgrimage efficiently with detailed information.
Wrapped Bicycle Rental
Tatebayashi City offers a rental service for bicycles wrapped in “A Place Further Than the Universe” designs. You can feel the work’s worldview while efficiently visiting sacred sites around the city.
Rental Information:
- Pick-up locations: Designated places such as in front of Tatebayashi Station
- Fee: Several hundred yen (details require confirmation)
- Reservation: Advance reservation recommended
With bicycle transportation, you can efficiently visit major spots such as Tatebayashi Station, Tsutsujigaoka Park, and Morinseiji Temple in half a day.
Collaboration Events and Merchandise Information
Tatebayashi Anime Ambassador Appointment Memorial Event
Events are held regularly to commemorate the four main characters being appointed as “Tatebayashi Anime Ambassadors.” Past events have included:
- Stamp rallies: A project where visitors collect stamps at five locations throughout the city to complete a postcard
- Panel exhibitions: Work panel displays at Tatebayashi Station and city hall
- Voice actor talk events: Appearances by voice cast members at commemorative events
Latest event information can be confirmed on the Tatebayashi City official website and tourism association website.
Tatebayashi Hills Hotel Collaboration Accommodation Plan
Tatebayashi Hills Hotel offers a collaboration accommodation plan with “A Place Further Than the Universe” (details may change depending on the period).
Plan Features:
- Original merchandise provided
- Special amenities related to the work
- Convenient location for sacred site pilgrimage
- Good access near Tatebayashi Station
For pilgrims from distant locations, this is a valuable opportunity to stay while enjoying the work’s worldview.
Hanayama Udon Collaboration Products
“Hanayama Udon,” a long-established udon restaurant with its main store in Tatebayashi City, sells collaboration products with “A Place Further Than the Universe.”
Product Information:
- Udon sets in collaboration packaging
- Original design packaging
- Popular as souvenirs
- Available for purchase at the store as well as online sales
Collaborations between Tatebayashi specialties like “Oni-himokawa” (extra-wide noodles) and the work are perfect as mementos of your sacred site pilgrimage.
Other Collaboration Merchandise
“A Place Further Than the Universe” related goods are sold at various locations throughout Tatebayashi City:
- Original postcards
- Clear files
- Keychains
- T-shirts
- Towels
- Metal badges
These goods can be purchased at tourist information centers and cooperating stores.
Efficient Sacred Site Pilgrimage Model Courses
Half-Day Course (approximately 4 hours)
- Tatebayashi Station (30 min): View the station interior and plaza, obtain sacred site pilgrimage map at tourist information center
- Morinseiji-mae Station (5 min by train + 10 min walk): View the station building, then proceed to temple
- Morinseiji Temple (40 min): Stroll through the grounds and approach, photograph with tanuki statues
- Tsutsujigaoka Park (20 min travel + 60 min stay): Explore the park centered around the gazebo area
- Around Tatebayashi Station (30 min travel + 30 min stay): Explore shopping streets and townscape
Full-Day Enjoyment Course (approximately 7 hours)
Morning:
- Tatebayashi Station (30 min): Starting point, obtain map
- Morinseiji-mae Station / Morinseiji Temple (90 min): Take photos carefully
- Tsutsujigaoka Park (90 min): Explore the park in detail
Lunch: Enjoy local specialty cuisine in Tatebayashi City (such as Hanayama Udon)
Afternoon:
- City shopping streets and townscapes (60 min): Visit fine details of spots appearing in the work
- Around Tatebayashi Station (60 min): Final confirmation and merchandise shopping
- Tatebayashi City Hall or tourist facilities (30 min): View exhibitions if available
Recommended Route Using Bicycles
When renting wrapped bicycles:
Tatebayashi Station → City townscape spots (15 min) → Tsutsujigaoka Park (15 min) → Morinseiji Temple (10 min) → Morinseiji-mae Station (5 min) → Tatebayashi Station (15 min)
With a bicycle, travel time is shortened, allowing you to visit more spots efficiently.
Notes and Etiquette for Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Consideration for Residents
Many sacred sites in Tatebayashi City are also living spaces for local residents. Please follow the following etiquette:
- Keep conversations quiet: Especially in residential areas and during early morning or late night
- Do not trespass on private property: Take photographs from public roads only
- Always take trash with you: Cooperation with environmental preservation
- Follow traffic rules: No traffic violations or darting into streets
- Do not park in prohibited areas: Use designated parking lots
Photography Precautions
- Be considerate so other tourists and residents are not caught in photos: Be mindful of portrait rights
- Use tripods only in areas that don’t disturb others: Avoid using during crowded times
- Obtain permission before photographing inside stores: Taking photos without permission is prohibited
- Check photography-prohibited areas at temples and shrines: Show respect for religious facilities
Response to Seasons and Weather
Summer (June-September):
- Tatebayashi City is one of Japan’s hottest regions
- Heat stroke prevention is essential: hats, parasols, frequent water breaks
- Sunscreen application recommended
Winter (December-February):
- Cold weather preparation: dress warmly
- Pay attention to time allocation as sunset comes early
Rainy Season (June):
- Bring rain gear
- Wear non-slip shoes
Charm and Tourist Information of Tatebayashi City
History and Culture of Tatebayashi
Tatebayashi City flourished during the Edo period as a castle town ruled by Yasumasa Sakakibara, one of the four greatest generals of the Tokugawa. With many historic structures and cultural properties, you can enjoy historical exploration along with pilgrimage to “A Place Further Than the Universe” sacred sites.
Tatebayashi Specialty Foods
Udon:
- Hanayama Udon’s “Oni-himokawa”: Characteristically wide noodles
- Tatebayashi udon: Traditional udon culture of the region
Others:
- Bread made with Tatebayashi wheat
- Dishes using local vegetables
- Freshwater fish dishes caught in Lake Shionuma
Azalea Festival
The “Azalea Festival,” Tatebayashi City’s largest event, is held from mid-April to early May each year. During this period:
- Tsutsujigaoka Park is colored with blooming azaleas
- Many tourists visit
- Events related to “A Place Further Than the Universe” may be held
However, due to crowding, sacred site pilgrimage may not be leisurely.
Detailed Access Information
Access by Train
From Tokyo:
- About 70 minutes by Limited Express Ryomou from Asakusa Station on the Tobu Isesaki Line
- About 90-120 minutes by express or local train from Asakusa Station on the Tobu Isesaki Line
- Also accessible from Kitasenjyu Station
From Saitama:
- About 60 minutes from Kasukabe Station on the Tobu Isesaki Line
- About 40 minutes from Kuki Station
From Tochigi:
- About 30 minutes from Sano Station on the Tobu Sano Line
Access by Car
Expressway:
- About 10 minutes from Tatebayashi IC on the Tohoku Expressway to the city center
- About 20 minutes from Ota Kiryu IC on the Kita-Kanto Expressway
Local Roads:
- National Routes 122 and 354 pass through
- About 80 km from Tokyo, approximately 2 hours
Parking Information:
- Around Tatebayashi Station: Multiple paid parking lots
- Tsutsujigaoka Park: Free parking available (paid during azalea festival season)
- Morinseiji Temple: Free parking available
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Gunma Prefectural Museum of Art, Tatebayashi
An art museum in harmony with nature displaying contemporary art works. Popular as a cultural facility in Tatebayashi City.
Chiaki Mukai Memorial Children’s Science Museum
Memorial hall of Chiaki Mukai, Japan’s first female astronaut. Also visited by fans for the “space” connection.
Flour Museum
A corporate museum of the Nisshin Seifun Group. Learn about the history of flour milling.
Ashikaga City (Adjacent City)
About 30 minutes by car from Ashikaga City includes:
- Ashikaga School: Japan’s oldest school
- Bannaiji Temple: A temple with a national treasure main hall
- Ashikaga Flower Park: Famous for large wisteria
You can enjoy surrounding tourism along with sacred site pilgrimage.
Methods for Obtaining Latest Information
Official Websites
- Tatebayashi City Official Website: Event information, ambassador-related news
- Tatebayashi Tourism Association: Tourist information, download sacred site pilgrimage maps
- “A Place Further Than the Universe” Official Website: Work information, collaboration information
SNS
- Tatebayashi City Official Twitter/X: Latest event information
- Hashtags “#Yorimoi” “#A Place Further Than the Universe”: Pilgrimage reports from fans
- Hashtag “#Tatebayashi City”: Regional information
Information Gathering On-Site
- Tatebayashi Station Front Tourist Information Center: Visit during business hours
- City Hall Tourism Division: Provide detailed information
- Cooperating stores: Merchandise and event information
Summary: Experience the World of “Yorimoi” in Tatebayashi
Tatebayashi City in Gunma Prefecture, a sacred site for “A Place Further Than the Universe,” is a fascinating place where you can fully enjoy the work’s worldview. Major spots such as Tatebayashi Station, the gazebo at Tsutsujigaoka Park, and Morinseiji Temple are reproduced faithfully to the work, allowing you to experience the paths the characters walked by actually visiting.
Tatebayashi City has established systems to warmly welcome pilgrims, including the “Tatebayashi Anime Ambassador” system, installation of stage spot signs, and wrapped bicycle rentals. Additionally, various events and merchandise that let you enjoy the work’s worldview are prepared, such as collaboration products with Hanayama Udon and accommodation plans at Tatebayashi Hills Hotel.
When visiting for sacred site pilgrimage, don’t forget consideration for residents and proper etiquette. By also enjoying Tatebayashi City’s history, culture, and cuisine, your experience will be more fulfilling. The ease of access—about 70 minutes by limited express from Tokyo—is also attractive.
Why not retrace the story of youth and adventure depicted in “A Place Further Than the Universe” at its stage, Tatebayashi City? For fans of the work, Tatebayashi City is an absolute must-visit sacred site.
