【Maebashi Witches】 Maebashi City, Gunma Prefecture
What are the Maebashi Witches? The Appeal of Sacred Site Pilgrimage
The “Maebashi Witches” is a community-focused content piece set in Maebashi City, Gunma Prefecture, as a spin-off of the popular anime series “Strike Witches.” With official cooperation between Gunma Prefecture and Maebashi City, there are numerous sacred site pilgrimage spots that blend the anime’s world with real locations in the region.
The greatest feature of this work is that real landmarks and tourist attractions in Maebashi City appear in the work, allowing fans to actually visit them. It is a recommended tourism content not only for anime fans but also for local residents who want to rediscover the charms of Gunma Prefecture.
How to Enjoy Sacred Site Pilgrimage
In sacred site pilgrimage, the main enjoyment is “location hunting,” where you take photos from the same angles as scenes that appear in the anime. Multiple sacred site spots are scattered throughout Maebashi City, allowing you to explore thoroughly over a full day or efficiently visit major spots in half a day.
Major Sacred Site Pilgrimage Spots in Maebashi City, Gunma Prefecture
Around Maebashi Station
JR Maebashi Station is ideal as a starting point for sacred site pilgrimage. The station interior and station plaza sometimes have exhibitions and panels related to Maebashi Witches, and many fans take commemorative photos here first.
Within walking distance from the north exit of the station, there are scattered shops and restaurants that appear in the work. In particular, the “Maebashi Central Shopping Street” area is depicted as a place where anime characters spend their daily lives, allowing you to experience the emotion of real streets and the anime’s world overlapping.
Maebashi Park and Sachi Pond
Maebashi Park is a historic park located in the center of Maebashi City and appears as an important location in Maebashi Witches. In particular, the area around “Sachi Pond” is depicted as a place where characters spend their leisure time, offering beautiful scenery throughout the seasons.
Cherry blossoms in spring, lush green trees in summer, autumn leaves in fall, and snowy landscapes in winter—the park shows different faces depending on the season you visit, offering fresh discoveries no matter how many times you return. Walking around the pond while recalling anime scenes is one of the true pleasures of sacred site pilgrimage.
Gunma Prefectural Government Observation Hall
The Gunma Prefectural Government 32nd Floor Observation Hall is a free observation spot offering a panoramic view of Maebashi’s cityscape. The view from 127 meters above ground is spectacular and is used in impressive scenes throughout Maebashi Witches.
From the observation hall, you can view the Akagi, Haruna, and Myogi Mountains—the three peaks of Jōmo—and on clear days, you can see as far as Mount Asama. The sunset and night views are also beautiful, making it popular as a date spot as well as with anime fans.
Operating hours are 7:30 AM to 10:00 PM on weekdays and 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM on weekends and holidays, with convenient access by bus from Maebashi Station in about 10 minutes.
Maebashi Runa Park (Maebashi Central Children’s Playground)
“Runa Park,” known as Japan’s cheapest amusement park, is also one of Maebashi Witches’ sacred sites. The retro-atmosphere rides and merry-go-round appear in nostalgic scenes in the anime.
Rides priced at 10 or 50 yen per use are enjoyed by children and adults alike as a place of rest for Maebashi residents. It is also recommended to actually experience the rides while sacred site pilgrimage is in progress.
Hirose River Riverside
The riverside of the Hirose River, which flows through Maebashi City, is also an important location that appears in the work. In particular, the walking paths around the “Hirose River Museum” are used in scenes where characters take walks, offering leisurely time.
The cherry tree-lined riverside is also famous as a spring flower-viewing spot and has become a place where anime fans and local flower-viewing visitors interact.
Efficient Sacred Site Pilgrimage Route Plans
Half-Day Course (approximately 4 hours)
9:00 AM Start at JR Maebashi Station
Commemorative photo near the station, obtain sacred site map at the tourist information center
9:30 AM Maebashi Park and Sachi Pond
Move by foot or bus (approximately 15 minutes), explore the park
11:00 AM Gunma Prefectural Government Observation Hall
Approximately 10-minute walk, overlook the cityscape from the observation hall
12:00 PM Lunch at Maebashi Central Shopping Street
Enjoy local cuisine while exploring the shopping street
1:00 PM Runa Park
Photography at the retro amusement park, experience the rides
This course allows you to efficiently visit major spots and is ideal for first-time sacred site pilgrimage.
Full-Day Course (approximately 8 hours)
In addition to the half-day course, you can add the following spots.
2:30 PM Hirose River Riverside Walk
Walk along the river while searching for photo spots
4:00 PM Tour Anime Shops and Collaboration Cafes in Maebashi
Purchase limited edition merchandise and enjoy collaboration menus
6:00 PM Revisit the Prefectural Government Observation Hall at Dusk
End the day with night scene photography
Access Methods and Transportation
Access by Train
From the Tokyo Area
- Approximately 1 hour 50 minutes on JR Takasaki Line to Takasaki Station
- Approximately 15 minutes on JR Ryomo Line from Takasaki Station to Maebashi Station
- Or use Limited Express “Kusatsu” or “Shima” from Ueno Station to Takasaki Station in approximately 1 hour 40 minutes
From Nagano and Niigata Areas
- Get off at Takasaki Station on the Hokuriku Shinkansen, transfer to JR Ryomo Line
Access by Car
Using the Kan’etsu Expressway
- Approximately 15 minutes from Maebashi IC to the city center
- Parking is provided at each tourist spot; the prefectural government has paid parking
Transportation Within the City
Maebasu (Maebashi City Circulation Bus)
A convenient community bus connecting major sacred sites. Use for 100 yen per ride, with a 1-day pass available for 300 yen.
Rental Bicycles
Rental bicycles are available at Maebashi Station and major spots. Sacred site pilgrimage by bicycle is comfortable due to the predominantly flat terrain.
On Foot
Major spots are concentrated within a 2 km radius of Maebashi Station, making pilgrimage on foot possible. However, visiting all spots on foot is time-consuming, so combining bus and rental bicycles is recommended.
Maebashi Witches Limited Merchandise and Collaboration Information
Official Merchandise Sales Shops
Limited merchandise for Maebashi Witches can be purchased at tourist information centers and affiliated stores throughout Maebashi City. A wide variety of items are available, including keychains, clear files, T-shirts, and enamel pins—souvenirs that commemorate sacred site pilgrimage.
At the Maebashi Station Tourist Information Center, you can check the latest merchandise information and inventory status. Popular items may sell out, so early purchase is recommended.
Limited-Time Collaboration Projects
Maebashi regularly holds collaboration events with Maebashi Witches.
- Stamp Rally: Collect stamps by visiting sacred sites to receive limited merchandise
- Collaboration Cafes: Local restaurants offer menus inspired by characters
- Panel Exhibitions: Character panels and original artwork displays at stations and shopping facilities
- Voice Actor Events: Anniversary events may feature voice actor talk shows and meet-and-greet sessions
The latest collaboration information can be found on Maebashi City Tourism Promotion Division’s official website and social media.
Photography Etiquette and Tips During Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Photography Etiquette
Consideration for local residents and etiquette are very important in enjoying sacred site pilgrimage.
Etiquette to Follow
- No trespassing on private property
- Photography in locations that do not obstruct traffic
- Avoid loud conversations and noise
- Always take garbage with you
- Be considerate not to interfere with business in shopping streets
- Greet and show appreciation to local people
Best Timing for Photography
Time of Day
- Morning: Good lighting conditions, fewer tourists
- Evening: Beautiful light during the magic hour for atmospheric photos
- Night: Ideal for night scene spots like the prefectural government observation hall
Season
- Spring (March-May): Beautiful cherry blossoms and fresh greenery, comfortable weather
- Summer (June-August): Lush green, but heat precautions necessary
- Autumn (September-November): Beautiful autumn leaves and comfortable climate
- Winter (December-February): Clear air and crisp distant views, warm clothing essential
Recommended Photography Equipment
- Smartphone: Convenient and sufficient image quality, easy SNS posting
- Mirrorless/SLR Camera: For those wanting more serious sacred site pilgrimage photography
- Wide-angle Lens: Convenient for capturing entire buildings and landscapes
- Tripod: Necessary for night scene photography and group photos (use where it doesn’t obstruct foot traffic)
Local Cuisine and Rest Spots in Maebashi
Maebashi Local Gourmet
Enjoy these Maebashi and Gunma specialties during breaks from sacred site pilgrimage.
Tonkatsu (Pork Cutlet)
Gunma Prefecture is known for pork production, with many excellent tonkatsu restaurants in Maebashi City. Thick-cut tonkatsu made with “Joshū pork” is exquisite.
Yakimanju (Grilled Buns)
A Gunma local specialty sweet made by grilling steamed buns with sweet and spicy miso sauce. Available at wagashi (traditional sweet) shops and food stalls throughout Maebashi.
Himokawadon (Wide Noodle)
A Gunma specialty udon with characteristically wide, flat noodles. The smooth texture and excellent mouthfeel are appealing.
Daruma Bento
A famous bento at Takasaki Station, but also available in Maebashi. The cute daruma-shaped container makes it an excellent souvenir.
Recommended Rest Spots
Maebashi Plaza Genki 21
A complex facility near Maebashi Station with plenty of cafes and restaurants. Ideal for spreading out your sacred site pilgrimage map and planning your next destination.
Starbucks Maebashi Park Branch
Located near Maebashi Park, convenient for resting during walks. You can enjoy the park’s greenery from the terrace seating.
Michi no Eki Maebashi Akagi
Located near Maebashi IC, convenient for visitors doing sacred site pilgrimage by car. You can purchase fresh local vegetables and regional specialties.
Combining with Nearby Tourist Attractions
Akagi Mountain Area
Located in the northern part of Maebashi City, Mount Akagi is one of Japan’s 100 Famous Mountains and appears in Maebashi Witches backgrounds. With some time to spare, a trip to Akagi Mountain is also recommended.
Akagi Shrine: A power spot shrine
Lake Ōnuma: A crater lake where you can enjoy boating and fishing
Akagi Hot Spring: Day-trip hot spring to relieve the fatigue of sacred site pilgrimage
Takasaki City Area
The neighboring city of Takasaki is only 15 minutes by train from Maebashi, making combined sightseeing possible.
Takasaki White Robed Great Kannon: A giant statue overlooking the cityscape
Takasaki Station Area: Full of shopping and gourmet spots
Shorin-zan Daruma Temple: Famous as the birthplace of daruma
Ikaho Hot Spring and Kusatsu Hot Spring
Gunma Prefecture’s representative hot springs can be visited as a day trip or overnight stay from Maebashi. A plan combining sacred site pilgrimage with hot spring travel is also popular.
Accommodation and Recommended Hotels
Hotels Near Maebashi Station
Hotel 1-2-3 Maebashi Mercury
Within walking distance of Maebashi Station, business-style hotel with reasonable prices.
Hotel Sanderson
Right on the north exit of Maebashi Station, excellent access and ideal as a sacred site pilgrimage base.
Maebashi Tersa
A hotel with hot spring facilities, perfect for soothing the fatigue of sacred site pilgrimage.
Combining with Hot Spring Inns
To enjoy both sacred site pilgrimage and hot springs, a plan staying at a hotel in Maebashi and then moving to Ikaho or Kusatsu hot springs is also recommended.
Event and Festival Information
Maebashi Festival
Held every October, Maebashi’s largest festival sometimes features collaboration projects with Maebashi Witches. You can enjoy a fusion of traditional festival elements like floats, portable shrines, and dandenbayashi dance with anime culture.
Maebashi First Market Festival
A traditional market held in January, famous for daruma doll sales. Limited edition Maebashi Witches daruma may be sold.
Anime Events
Information about irregularly held voice actor talk shows, fan meetings, and screenings can be checked on official websites and social media.
Maebashi Witches Sacred Site Pilgrimage Q&A
Q: How much time is needed for sacred site pilgrimage?
A: Visiting just major spots takes about half a day (4 hours), but taking a full day to enjoy photography and meals is recommended. With nearby attractions included, a 1-night 2-day plan is ideal.
Q: Where can I get a sacred site pilgrimage map?
A: Maps are distributed free at the tourist information center at JR Maebashi Station, the tourism section of Gunma Prefectural Government, Maebashi City Hall, and more. You can also download a PDF version from the official website.
Q: I don’t have a car, can I visit only using public transportation?
A: Yes, it’s possible. Using Maebasu (city circulation bus) and rental bicycles, you can efficiently visit major spots. On foot alone, many spots are within a 2 km radius.
Q: Can I enjoy it on a rainy day?
A: Yes, there are spots enjoyable in rain such as the prefectural government observation hall, indoor facilities, and shopping street arcades. However, park and riverside walks are more pleasant on sunny days.
Q: What clothing is appropriate for sacred site pilgrimage?
A: Comfortable sneakers or athletic shoes are essential. Prepare hats and sunscreen for summer, and warm clothing for winter. Bringing a camera or smartphone charger and beverages is recommended.
Q: Can I buy Maebashi Witches merchandise online?
A: Some merchandise is available for purchase at online shops, but limited and regional-exclusive items can only be obtained at the location. If you want to secure something specific, visiting in person is recommended.
Conclusion: Maximizing Your Enjoyment of Maebashi Witches Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Sacred site pilgrimage for Maebashi Witches is a valuable experience for anime fans to experience the world of the work. Because the stage is the real city of Maebashi in Gunma Prefecture, you can experience the emotion of anime and reality intersecting.
The keys to successful sacred site pilgrimage are as follows.
- Prior Preparation: Obtaining the sacred site map, confirming access methods, checking event information
- Efficient Route Planning: Decide between a half-day or full-day course and arrange transportation
- Following Etiquette: Consideration for residents, observing photography etiquette
- Enjoying Local Cuisine: Enrich your travel memories with Maebashi and Gunma specialties
- Obtaining Limited Merchandise: Purchase commemorative merchandise on location
- Sharing on Social Media: Connect with other fans using hashtags
Maebashi is about 2 hours from Tokyo with good access, making it ideal for a weekend trip. Beyond being a sacred anime site, it is also an attractive tourist destination to enjoy Gunma Prefecture’s history, culture, and nature.
A journey through Maebashi’s city, which shows different faces throughout the seasons, alongside Maebashi Witches characters will surely become unforgettable memories. Please use this guide as reference to create your own sacred site pilgrimage plan.
Maebashi City and local residents warmly welcome anime fan visitors. Please enjoy Maebashi Witches’ world fully while observing proper etiquette.
