【Tamayura】(Takehara City, Hiroshima Prefecture)
What is Tamayura? A Healing Anime Set in Takehara City, Hiroshima Prefecture
“Tamayura” is a Japanese anime work directed by Junichi Sato, set in Takehara City, Hiroshima Prefecture, telling a heartwarming story. The main character, Kaede Sawatari, grows up while taking photographs around the town of Takehara, holding her late father’s memento camera, a “Rolleiflex.”
An OVA titled “Tamayura” was released in 2010, and the first TV anime series “Tamayura ~hitotose~” aired in 2011. Subsequently, the second season “Tamayura ~more aggressive~” aired in 2013, and a four-part theatrical film series was released from 2015 to 2016, becoming a work beloved by many fans.
The greatest charm of the work is that the actual scenery of Takehara City is depicted with care. The old townscapes, calm views of the Seto Inland Sea, and the warmth of the local people wrap around the entire work, providing viewers with deep healing.
About Takehara City, Hiroshima | The Little Kyoto of the Seto Inland Sea
History and Culture of Takehara City
Takehara City is a quiet town of approximately 25,000 people located in the south of Hiroshima Prefecture along the Seto Inland Sea coast. Also called the “Aki’s Little Kyoto,” it retains historic townscapes that flourished in the salt manufacturing and sake brewing industries since the Edo period.
In particular, the “Takehara Town Preservation District” has been designated as a National Important Preservation District for Groups of Historic Buildings, maintaining beautiful scenery with latticed-window merchant houses, white-walled earthen storehouses, and temples and shrines lined up. This historic townscape was a major reason why “Tamayura” was chosen as the setting.
How to Access
By Train
- Get off at JR Kure Line “Takehara Station”
- Approximately 45 minutes from Hiroshima Station, approximately 20 minutes from Mihara Station
- Approximately 15-minute walk from the station to the Town Preservation District
By Car
- Approximately 20 minutes from “Kawachi IC” on the Sanyo Expressway
- Approximately 25 minutes from “Hongo IC” on the Sanyo Expressway
- Parking is available at Michi-no-Eki Takehara and municipal parking lots
By Bus
- Approximately 30 minutes from Hiroshima Airport by Geiyō Bus
Tamayura Pilgrimage | Major Filming Location Spots
Takehara Town Preservation District
The historic townscape area that became the center stage of the work. The cobblestone paths where Kaede and her friends walked daily, old houses with latticed windows, white-walled storehouses, and other places actually exist, allowing you to enjoy the scenery just as it appears in the anime.
Highlights
- Honmachi Street: The main street that appears in many scenes
- Kodō: The model of the place where Kaede and her friends gathered
- Shōren-ji: Beautiful views of the townscape from the temple grounds
Shōkei-no-Michi (Longing Path)
The largest event in Takehara City, held in late October each year. The entire Town Preservation District is illuminated by approximately 1,000 bamboo lanterns, enveloped in a mystical atmosphere. This became the stage for an important scene in “Tamayura,” and after the work was released, many anime fans began visiting.
Takehara Marine Station
A tourist facility facing the Seto Inland Sea that also appears in the work. You can purchase fresh seafood and local specialty products from the area, and at the restaurant, you can enjoy dishes using the bounty of the Seto Inland Sea. The scenery along the sea embodies the healing atmosphere of the work.
Saikoku-ji Temple and Fumei-kaku Pavilion
A representative tourist attraction in Takehara City and an important location in “Tamayura.” From Fumei-kaku on a high ground, you can overlook the townscape of Takehara and the Seto Inland Sea, reminiscent of scenes where Kaede took photographs in the work. The scenery at sunset is breathtakingly beautiful.
Visiting Information
- Visiting hours: 9:00–17:00
- Admission fee: 200 yen for adults
- Time required: Approximately 30 minutes
Asahi Mountain
A model of the observation spot that Kaede and her friends often visited. From the summit, you can see the Takehara city area and the islands of the Seto Inland Sea, and on clear days, you can see Shikoku. The mountain trail is well-maintained and can be climbed in approximately 30 minutes one way.
Michi-no-Eki Takehara
A roadside station along National Route 185, convenient as a base for Takehara tourism. Local agricultural products and specialty items are available, and you can also obtain tourism information. A similar location appears in the work, making it a popular stop for fans.
Takehara Station
The station where Kaede got off when she came to Takehara from Yokohama. A small station on the JR Kure Line, but it is the starting point of pilgrimage for “Tamayura” fans. There is also a tourist information center in front of the station where you can obtain pilgrimage maps.
Traces of Tamayura | Anime-Related Facilities in Takehara City
Tamayura Pilgrimage Map
The Takehara City Tourism Association distributes a “Tamayura” pilgrimage map. A detailed map where you can cross-reference locations that appeared in the work with actual filming locations, allowing you to make your pilgrimage efficiently. Available at the tourist information office in front of Takehara Station and at Michi-no-Eki Takehara.
Collaboration with Local Shopping Streets
During the work’s broadcast period, shopping streets in the Town Preservation District collaborated with “Tamayura,” with character panels being set up and original goods being sold. Currently, some shops still handle related products, and exchanges with fans continue.
Events and Fan Activities
Takehara City has regularly held events for “Tamayura” fans. Voice actor talk shows, stamp rallies, and photo exhibitions have been held, strengthening the connection between the work and the region.
Gourmet in Takehara City | Food That Appeared in Tamayura
Taketsuru Sake Brewery
An sake brewery that appeared as an important location in “Tamayura.” It is also known as the birthplace of Masataka Taketsuru, the main character of the NHK asadora “Massan.” The sake “Kozasaya Taketsuru” is highly regarded nationwide, and tours and tastings are available.
Tour Information
- Tour hours: By reservation
- Direct sales shop hours: 9:00–16:30
- Closed: Sundays and holidays
Fujii Sake Brewery
Another major sake brewery representing Takehara. It manufactures the fine sake “Ryūsei,” and you can experience sake brewery tours and tasting.Located within the Town Preservation District, it is also valuable as a historic structure.
Local Seafood Cuisine
Takehara, facing the Seto Inland Sea, offers fresh seafood delicacies. Oysters, octopus, and sea bream are particularly famous local specialties, reminiscent of dining scenes that appeared in the work.
Recommended Restaurants
- Restaurant at Takehara Marine Station
- Dining establishments around the Town Preservation District
- Local teishoku (set meal) restaurants
Takehara Bamboo Crafts and Local Products
Bamboo crafts, which derive from the name Takehara itself, are a local specialty. Small bamboo craft items and bamboo charcoal products are popular as souvenirs. Additionally, “seaman’s seaweed salt” born from the history of salt fields is also famous, with scenes of salt-making appearing in the work.
Best Seasons for Pilgrimage and Model Courses
Recommended Seasons
Spring (March–May)
The cherry blossom season makes the townscape even more beautiful, and the mild climate is ideal for strolling.
Autumn (October–November)
Late October when “Shōkei-no-Michi” is held is the best season. Autumn leaves are also beautiful, and this is the time when you can feel the work’s atmosphere most.
Summer (June–August)
The blue sea and sky of the Seto Inland Sea are beautiful in this season. However, heat precautions are essential.
Winter (December–February)
With fewer tourists, you can make your pilgrimage quietly. The cold is not severe, and the winter townscape has a distinctive charm.
One-Day Model Course
Morning
- 9:00 Arrive at Takehara Station, obtain pilgrimage map at tourist information office
- 9:30 Overlook the townscape from Saikoku-ji Temple and Fumei-kaku Pavilion
- 10:30 Stroll through the Town Preservation District (Honmachi Street, Kodō, etc.)
- 11:30 Tour Taketsuru Sake Brewery or Fujii Sake Brewery
Afternoon
- 12:30 Lunch at a local restaurant
- 14:00 Enjoy the scenery of the Seto Inland Sea at Takehara Marine Station
- 15:00 Climb Asahi Mountain (depending on fitness level)
- 16:30 Purchase souvenirs at Michi-no-Eki Takehara
- 17:00 Depart from Takehara Station
Overnight Plan
There are several inns and hotels in Takehara City, making it possible to stay and enjoy the area leisurely. By staying one night, you can also enjoy the quiet townscape at dusk and early morning, immersing yourself more deeply in the world of “Tamayura.”
Impact of Tamayura on Takehara City
A Success Story of Anime Tourism
“Tamayura” has been noted as a success story where an anime work has contributed to regional revitalization. After the work’s broadcast, the number of tourists visiting Takehara City increased significantly, with particularly more young visitors.
Positive Relationship Between Region and Fans
The relationship between Takehara City and “Tamayura” fans is very positive, with local residents warmly welcoming anime fans. This relationship of mutual respect has created a sustainable pilgrimage culture.
Increased Interest in Town Preservation
Through the work, the value of Takehara’s historic townscape has been reappreciated, and interest in preservation activities has increased. For young people, it has become an opportunity to become interested in traditional Japanese townscapes.
Pilgrimage Etiquette and Requests
Consideration for Residents
The Town Preservation District is not only a tourist destination but also the living space of local residents. Please follow the following etiquette.
- Do not make loud noises
- Do not trespass on private property without permission
- Be considerate when taking photographs
- Always take your trash with you
- Avoid visiting early in the morning or late at night
Photography Precautions
- Obtain permission before photographing shops or residences
- Be considerate if people appear in your shots
- Use tripods in a way that does not inconvenience those around you
- Avoid photographing on roads in ways that obstruct traffic
Contribution to the Local Economy
During pilgrimage, you can contribute to the local economy by using local restaurants and shops. Through souvenir purchases and dining, you can further discover the charm of Takehara City.
Charms of Takehara City Beyond Tamayura
Historic Buildings
- Former Matsusaka Family Residence: A wealthy merchant’s house from the Edo period
- Former Kasai Mansion: A merchant house that prospered in the salt manufacturing business
- Shōren-ji: The oldest temple in Takehara
Natural Scenery
- Bamboo Joy Highland: A park themed around bamboo
- Matoba Beach: A calm beach on the Seto Inland Sea
- Kamo River Promenade: Enjoy nature throughout the four seasons
Cultural Experiences
- Bamboo Craft Experiences: Touch traditional crafts
- Sake Brewery Tours: Learn about the sake brewing process
- Salt-Making Experiences: Experience the history of salt manufacturing
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Ōkunoshima (Rabbit Island)
Approximately 15 minutes by ferry from Tadanoumi Port in Takehara City. Popular domestically and internationally as a tourist destination where many wild rabbits inhabit. It also appears in “Tamayura,” with scenes of Kaede and her friends visiting.
Onomichi City
Approximately 40 minutes by car from Takehara, a town known for its hills. It is also famous as a stage for anime and films, and many fans visit both locations.
Kure City
Known as a naval town, Kure City is approximately 30 minutes by train from Takehara. It is full of things to see, including the Yamato Museum and the Maritime Self-Defense Force Kure Historical Museum.
Conclusion | The Enduring Bond Between Tamayura and Takehara City
“Tamayura” depicts connections between people through photography, growth, and healing, set in Takehara City, a real town in Hiroshima Prefecture. Through the work’s careful depiction, Takehara City’s beautiful townscape and warm atmosphere became known throughout the nation.
Through pilgrimage, anime fans can actually experience the world of the work, and at the same time, they can touch the history and culture of Takehara City and the warmth of its people. This is not merely tourism but a special cultural exchange that the work and the region have nurtured together.
When visiting Takehara City, walk through the town slowly like Kaede in “Tamayura,” gaze at the calm scenery of the Seto Inland Sea, and treasure encounters with local people. You will surely feel the “tamayura” moment—the irreplaceable glimmer of a single instant—that the work sought to convey.
Takehara City, along with the anime “Tamayura,” will continue to provide healing and emotion to many people. Please visit this beautiful little Kyoto of the Seto Inland Sea once and find your own “tamayura.”
