“A Place Further Than the Universe”
The TV anime “A Place Further Than the Universe” (commonly known as “Yorimoi”) follows the story of Kimari Tamaki, a high school student attending a school in Gunma Prefecture, who meets her classmate Shirase Kobuchizawa, who is searching for her missing mother in Antarctica, and together they head to Antarctica in this “Girls’ High School Antarctic Youth Graphic.” The work is a “Girls’ High School Antarctic Youth Graphic.”
The series aired from January to March 2018, and captivated many fans with its moving story and meticulous artwork. The title is derived from a remark made by former astronaut Mamoru Mohri, who said that “Antarctica’s Showa Base is farther than space.”
Important spots in the work such as “Tatebayashi Station,” “Tsutsujigaoka Park,” and “Morin-ji Temple” within Tatebayashi City, Gunma Prefecture are faithfully depicted, and Tatebayashi City has been selected for 6 consecutive years as one of “88 Japanese Anime Holy Sites Worth Visiting.” It is the only city in Gunma Prefecture that is recognized as an “anime holy site” where local volunteers collaborate with the community for regional revitalization.
Reasons Why Tatebayashi City Became the Setting and Its Position in the Work
Tatebayashi City serves primarily as the setting for the domestic portion of the story (episodes 1-5), depicted as the hometown of Kimari and other characters. The cityscape of Tatebayashi City in Gunma Prefecture is reproduced very faithfully in the work, and by having actual landscapes appear as anime images, viewers experience a strong sense of immersion.
The four main characters (Kimari Tamaki, Shirase Kobuchizawa, Hinata Miyake, and Yuzuki Shiraishi) have been appointed as Tatebayashi City’s first “Tatebayashi Anime Ambassadors,” demonstrating a deep connection with the community.
Holy Sites Around Tatebayashi Station
Tatebayashi Station
Tatebayashi Station is the most frequently appearing important spot in the work. As a Tobu Railway station, it is depicted with scenes of characters using it multiple times.
Access Information:
- Major station served by the Tobu Isesaki Line, Tobu Sano Line, and Tobu Koizumi Line
- Approximately 70 minutes by Limited Express Ryomou from Asakusa Station in Tokyo
- Station interior and station plaza appear in the work
Displays and posters related to “A Place Further Than the Universe” may be displayed inside the station, making it an ideal starting point for holy site pilgrimages. There is also a tourist information center in front of the station where you can obtain a holy site pilgrimage map.
Around Tatebayashi Station East Exit
The shopping streets and cityscape around the station’s east exit also appear in the work. They are used in everyday scenes where characters walk, and by actually walking there, you can experience the world of the work.
Tsutsujigaoka Park: An Iconic Spot in the Work
Tsutsujigaoka Park is a symbolic spot where important scenes unfold in the work. In particular, scenes around the gazebo (azumaya) have left a strong impression on many fans.
Park Features:
- Designated as a National Scenic Spot with approximately 100 varieties and 10,000 azalea plants
- A historic park continuing since the Edo period
- Located on the banks of Shonuma, surrounded by abundant nature
- In the work, the gazebo appears in important conversation scenes with the characters
Highlights:
- Gazebo: Used in important scenes such as when Shirase and Kimari talk together
- Shonuma Scenery: Beautiful waterside landscape faithfully reproduced in the work
- Walking Paths: You can actually trace the paths the characters walked
Access:
- Approximately 30 minutes on foot from Tatebayashi Station
- By bus from Tatebayashi Station to “Tsutsujigaoka Park” bus stop
- Parking available (fee charged during azalea festival period)
Stage spot signs are installed throughout the park, allowing you to confirm which scenes were filmed at each location as you make your pilgrimage.
Morin-ji Temple: Fusion of Tanuki Legend and the Work
Morin-ji Temple is a Soto Zen Buddhist temple known for the legend of the “Bunfuku Teapot,” and it appears impressively in the work. The temple grounds feature numerous tanuki stone statues arranged throughout, creating a unique atmosphere.
Features of Morin-ji Temple:
- Historic temple founded in the Muromachi period
- Setting for the folk tale of the “Bunfuku Teapot”
- Over 20 tanuki statues scattered throughout the temple grounds
- Appears in the work through scenes on the approach and within the temple grounds
Highlights as a Holy Site:
- Approach: You can recreate scenes where characters walked
- Tanuki Statues: Distinctive landscape that appears in the work
- Gate: Impressive gate structure that conveys historical atmosphere
- Temple Grounds: Quiet atmosphere matches the world of the work
Access:
- Approximately 10 minutes on foot from “Morin-ji Mae Station” on the Tobu Isesaki Line
- Approximately 20 minutes on foot from Tatebayashi Station
- Free parking available
Morin-ji Mae Station itself appears in the work, and the route from the station to Morin-ji Temple is also popular as a holy site pilgrimage course.
Other Major Holy Sites
Morin-ji Mae Station
A small station on the Tobu Isesaki Line, but used in important scenes in the work. The simple atmosphere of an unmanned station contributes to the world of the work.
Features:
- Station building and interior appear in the work
- Views from the platform are faithfully reproduced
- The station area also appears in the work
Shopping Streets and Cityscape Within Tatebayashi City
The shopping streets and residential areas where the characters’ daily lives are depicted also use actual landscapes from Tatebayashi City.
Main Appearing Spots:
- Shopping street scenery
- Residential street roads
- Pedestrian bridges
- Areas around convenience stores
Since these spots are also living spaces for local residents, it is important to maintain proper etiquette and visit quietly during pilgrimages.
Official Holy Site Pilgrimage Support from Tatebayashi City
Installation of Stage Spot Signs
Tatebayashi City has installed “Stage Spot Signs” at major spots throughout the city. These signs show with photos which scenes from the work used that spot, making holy site pilgrimages more enjoyable.
Provision of Holy Site Pilgrimage Maps
The Tatebayashi City Tourism Association and the tourism information center in front of Tatebayashi Station distribute free “A Place Further Than the Universe” holy site pilgrimage maps. These maps include:
- Location information for major spots
- Scenes where they appear in the work
- Access methods to each spot
- Estimated time requirements
and other detailed information, allowing you to enjoy holy site pilgrimages efficiently.
Wrapped Bicycle Rentals
Tatebayashi City offers rental services for “A Place Further Than the Universe” designed wrapped bicycles. You can feel the world of the work while efficiently visiting holy sites throughout the city.
Rental Information:
- Rental locations: Designated locations such as in front of Tatebayashi Station
- Fees: A few hundred yen (details to be confirmed)
- Reservations: Advance booking recommended
With bicycle travel, you can efficiently visit major spots such as Tatebayashi Station, Tsutsujigaoka Park, and Morin-ji Temple in half a day.
Collaboration Events and Merchandise Information
Tatebayashi Anime Ambassador Appointment Commemorative Events
Regular events are held to commemorate the appointment of the four main characters as “Tatebayashi Anime Ambassadors.” Past events have included:
- Stamp Rally: Visit 5 spots throughout the city, collect stamps, and complete one postcard
- Panel Exhibitions: Work panels displayed at Tatebayashi Station and city hall
- Voice Actor Talk Events: Voice actors appearing at commemorative events
Latest event information can be found on the Tatebayashi City official website and the tourism association’s website.
Tatebayashi Hills Hotel Collaboration Accommodation Plan
Tatebayashi Hills Hotel offers “A Place Further Than the Universe” collaboration accommodation plans (contents may vary depending on the period).
Plan Features:
- Provision of original merchandise
- Work-related special amenities
- Convenient location for holy site pilgrimages
- Good access near Tatebayashi Station
For pilgrims coming from afar, it provides a valuable opportunity to enjoy and stay in the world of the work.
Kayama Udon Collaboration Products
“Kayama Udon,” an established udon restaurant with its main store in Tatebayashi City, sells “A Place Further Than the Universe” collaboration products.
Product Information:
- Collaboration packaged udon sets
- Original design packaging
- Popular as souvenirs
- Available at stores as well as online sales
Collaborations between Tatebayashi specialties such as “Oni Himokawa” and the work are perfect as mementos of holy site pilgrimages.
Other Collaboration Merchandise
“A Place Further Than the Universe” related merchandise is sold at various locations throughout Tatebayashi City:
- Original postcards
- Clear files
- Keychains
- T-shirts
- Towels
- Can badges
These items can be purchased at tourist information centers and cooperating stores.
Efficient Holy Site Pilgrimage Model Courses
Half-Day Course (approximately 4 hours)
- Tatebayashi Station (30 minutes): View the station interior and plaza, obtain a holy site pilgrimage map at the tourist information center
- Morin-ji Mae Station (5 minutes by train + 10 minutes on foot): View the station building, then proceed to Morin-ji Temple
- Morin-ji Temple (40 minutes): Stroll through the temple grounds and approach, photograph tanuki statues
- Tsutsujigaoka Park (20 minutes travel + 60 minutes stay): Explore the park centered around the gazebo area
- Around Tatebayashi Station (30 minutes travel + 30 minutes stay): Stroll through shopping streets and cityscape
Full-Day Course (approximately 7 hours)
Morning:
- Tatebayashi Station (30 minutes): Starting point, obtain map
- Morin-ji Mae Station and Morin-ji Temple (90 minutes): Photograph carefully
- Tsutsujigaoka Park (90 minutes): Explore the park in detail
Lunch: Enjoy Tatebayashi’s specialty cuisine (such as Kayama Udon)
Afternoon:
- City Shopping Streets and Cityscape (60 minutes): Visit detailed spots that appear in the work
- Around Tatebayashi Station (60 minutes): Final check and merchandise purchase
- Tatebayashi City Hall or Tourist Facilities (30 minutes): View exhibitions if available
Recommended Bicycle Route
When renting a wrapped bicycle:
Tatebayashi Station → City Cityscape Spots (15 minutes) → Tsutsujigaoka Park (15 minutes) → Morin-ji Temple (10 minutes) → Morin-ji Mae Station (5 minutes) → Tatebayashi Station (15 minutes)
Bicycles reduce travel time, allowing you to visit more spots efficiently.
Notes and Etiquette for Holy Site Pilgrimages
Consideration for Local Residents
Most holy sites in Tatebayashi City are also living spaces for local residents. Please follow the following etiquette:
- Keep conversations at a low volume: Especially in residential areas and during early morning or late evening
- Do not trespass on private property: Take photographs from public roads only
- Always take trash with you: Cooperation with environmental conservation
- Follow traffic rules: No traffic light violations or jaywalking
- Do not park in no-parking zones: Use designated parking areas
Photography Precautions
- Be considerate not to include other tourists or residents in photos: Attention to portrait rights
- Use tripods only in places that won’t disturb others: Avoid use during crowded times
- Obtain permission before photographing inside shops: No unauthorized photography
- Confirm photography-prohibited areas at temples and shrines: Respect for religious facilities
Seasonal and Weather Adaptation
Summer (June-September):
- Tatebayashi City is one of Japan’s hottest regions
- Heat stroke prevention is essential: hats, umbrellas, frequent water breaks
- Use of sunscreen recommended
Winter (December-February):
- Cold weather measures: prepare warm clothing
- Early sunset requires careful time management
Rainy Season (June):
- Prepare rain gear
- Wear non-slip shoes
Attractions and Tourism Information of Tatebayashi City
History and Culture of Tatebayashi
Tatebayashi City was a castle town that flourished under the rule of Yasumasa Sakakibara, one of the Four Heavenly Kings of Tokugawa, during the Edo period. With many historic structures and cultural properties, you can also enjoy historical exploration alongside “A Place Further Than the Universe” holy site pilgrimages.
Tatebayashi’s Local Specialties
Udon:
- Kayama Udon’s “Oni Himokawa”: Characteristically wide udon
- Tatebayashi Udon: Traditional udon culture of the region
Others:
- Bread made with Tatebayashi wheat
- Dishes using local vegetables
- Freshwater fish dishes from Shonuma
Azalea Festival
“Azalea Festival” held from mid-April to early May each year is Tatebayashi City’s largest event. During this period:
- Tsutsujigaoka Park is filled with blooming azaleas
- Attracts many tourists
- Events related to “A Place Further Than the Universe” may be held
However, due to crowding, holy site pilgrimages may not be leisurely.
Detailed Access Information
Access by Train
From Tokyo:
- Approximately 70 minutes by Limited Express Ryomou from Asakusa Station on the Tobu Isesaki Line
- Approximately 90-120 minutes by Local/Semi-local from Asakusa Station on the Tobu Isesaki Line
- Also accessible from Kitasenju Station
From Saitama:
- Approximately 60 minutes from Kasukabe Station on the Tobu Isesaki Line
- Approximately 40 minutes from Kuki Station
From Tochigi:
- Approximately 30 minutes from Sano Station on the Tobu Sano Line
Access by Car
Highway:
- Approximately 10 minutes from Tatebayashi IC on the Tohoku Expressway to the city center
- Approximately 20 minutes from Ota-Kiryu IC on the Kita-Kanto Expressway
General Roads:
- National Routes 122 and 354 pass through
- Approximately 80km from Tokyo, approximately 2 hours
Parking Information:
- Around Tatebayashi Station: Multiple paid parking lots
- Tsutsujigaoka Park: Free parking available (fee during azalea festival period)
- Morin-ji Temple: Free parking available
Surrounding Tourist Attractions
Gunma Prefectural Tatebayashi Museum of Art
An art museum in harmony with nature displaying contemporary artworks. Popular as a cultural facility in Tatebayashi City.
Chiaki Mukai Memorial Children’s Science Museum
A memorial museum for Chiaki Mukai, Japan’s first female astronaut. Some fans visit for the “space” connection.
Seifun 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:
- Ashikaga School: Japan’s oldest school
- Banno-ji Temple: A temple with a National Treasure main hall
- Ashikaga Flower Park: Famous for large wisteria
You can enjoy surrounding tourism alongside holy site pilgrimages.
How to Obtain Latest Information
Official Websites
- Tatebayashi City Official Website: Event information, ambassador-related news
- Tatebayashi City Tourism Association: Tourist information, holy site pilgrimage map downloads
- “A Place Further Than the Universe” Official Website: Work information, collaboration information
Social Media
- Tatebayashi City Official Twitter/X: Latest event information
- Hashtags “#Yorimoi” “#A Place Further Than the Universe”: Fan pilgrimage reports
- Hashtag “#Tatebayashi City”: Regional information
Information Gathering On-Site
- Tatebayashi Station Tourist Information Center: Visit during business hours
- City Hall Tourism Division: Detailed information provision
- Cooperating Stores: Merchandise information, event information
Conclusion: Experience the World of “Yorimoi” in Tatebayashi
Tatebayashi City, Gunma Prefecture, a holy site of “A Place Further Than the Universe,” is a wonderful place to fully enjoy the world of the work. Major spots such as Tatebayashi Station, the gazebo at Tsutsujigaoka Park, and Morin-ji Temple are faithfully reproduced from the work, and visiting in person allows you to experience the paths the characters walked.
Tatebayashi City has established a welcoming system for holy site pilgrims through measures such as the “Tatebayashi Anime Ambassador” system, installation of stage spot signs, and rental of wrapped bicycles. Additionally, various events and merchandise that allow you to enjoy the world of the work are provided, including collaboration products with Kayama Udon and accommodation plans at Tatebayashi Hills Hotel.
During pilgrimage, do not forget consideration for local residents and proper etiquette, and enjoy Tatebayashi City’s history, culture, and cuisine as well, which will make for a more fulfilling experience. The accessibility from Tokyo by limited express train in about 70 minutes is also attractive.
Why not re-experience the tale of youth and adventure depicted in “A Place Further Than the Universe” at Tatebayashi City, its setting? For fans who love the work, Tatebayashi City is a must-visit holy site.
