【Teasing Master Takagi-san 3】 Tonosho Town, Shozu District, Kagawa Prefecture
Introduction: “Teasing Master Takagi-san³” and Shodoshima Island in Kagawa Prefecture
“Teasing Master Takagi-san³” (Season 3), an anime adaptation of the popular manga by Soichiro Yamamoto, is a romantic comedy about youth. This work depicts the bittersweet daily life of middle schooler Nishikata and Takagi-san, with the story set in Shodoshima Island in Kagawa Prefecture, and many fans visit the locations as pilgrimage sites, drawn by the beautiful landscapes, schools, and shopping streets that appear in the work and actually exist.
Shodoshima is the second-largest island in Kagawa Prefecture floating in the Seto Inland Sea, known for olive cultivation and soy sauce production. The warm climate, rich nature, and peaceful island atmosphere support the worldview of the work, and by actually visiting after watching the anime, it becomes a compelling pilgrimage site where you can re-experience the daily life that Nishikata and Takagi-san spent together.
This article comprehensively introduces pilgrimage spots for “Teasing Master Takagi-san³,” and provides detailed explanations of access methods, pilgrimage tips, and recommended routes.
Access Methods to Shodoshima
Access by Ferry
Since Shodoshima is an island, a boat is necessary for access. The main routes are as follows:
From Takamatsu Port
- Takamatsu Port~Tonosho Port: About 60 minutes by ferry, about 35 minutes by high-speed boat
- Takamatsu Port~Ikeda Port: About 60 minutes by ferry
- The route with the most frequent service and easiest access
From Okayama Prefecture
- Shin-Okayama Port~Tonosho Port: About 70 minutes by ferry
- Hishu Port~Oobe Port: About 60 minutes by ferry
From Kobe
- Kobe Port~Sakate Port: About 3 hours 20 minutes by jumbo ferry
- Night service available, convenient for visits from distant locations
Transportation Within the Island
The following transportation methods are recommended for pilgrimage:
Rental Car
- Highest degree of freedom, efficient for pilgrimage
- Multiple rental car shops around Tonosho Port and Ikeda Port
- Early reservation recommended
Rental Bicycle and Electric Bicycle
- Can experience the atmosphere of the work while making pilgrimage
- Electric bicycle makes uphill travel easier
- Available at multiple information centers and hotels
Local Bus
- Small Bean Island Olive Bus operates around the island
- Limited service, so checking the timetable in advance is essential
- One-day pass (1,000 yen) offers good value
Taxi
- Convenient for efficient touring
- Tourism taxi plans also available
Detailed Information on Major Pilgrimage Spots
Tonosho Municipal Tonosho Junior High School (Model: The Junior High School Where Nishikata and Takagi Attend)
This is the actual school that served as the model for the junior high school that Nishikata and Takagi-san attend in the work. The exterior of the building, school gate, and surrounding scenery are faithfully reproduced in the work.
Important Notes When Visiting
- As this is an active school facility, entry onto the grounds is strictly prohibited
- Viewing the exterior from the front gate or surrounding public roads only
- Especially considerate during class hours and student arrival/departure times
- Avoid loud voices and long stays
- Photography from public roads should be done discreetly
Access
- About 5 minutes by car from Tonosho Port, about 20 minutes on foot
- About 10 minutes on foot from Tonosho Honmachi bus stop
Angel Road (The Angel’s Path)
A sandy path that appears with the tides, and is a representative tourist spot of Shodoshima. It also appears as the setting for important scenes in the work.
Characteristics
- A mysterious path that appears for about 4 hours twice daily at low tide
- Also famous as a sacred spot for couples, with a legend that wishes come true if lovers walk across it together
- One of the spots where you can most feel the atmosphere of the work
Tips for Visiting
- Check low tide times in advance (can be confirmed on the Shodoshima Tourism Association website)
- The passable time is approximately 2 hours before and after low tide
- Especially beautiful at dusk, recommended for photography
- Slippery, so wear shoes suitable for walking
Access
- About 5 minutes by car from Tonosho Port, about 15 minutes on foot
- Right near the International Hotel bus stop
Shodoshima Olive Park
A Mediterranean-style park with windmills and olive groves, featuring beautiful locations that appear in the work.
Highlights
- Greek Windmill: An iconic symbol of Shodoshima
- Olive Museum: Displays the history and products of olives
- Herb Garden: Enjoy seasonal flowers
- Kiki’s Delivery Service Set: Free rental of witch’s broomsticks
Appearances in the Work
- Appears in scenes where Takagi-san and Nishikata visit
- Has an impressive shot with the windmill in the background
Access
- About 25 minutes by car from Tonosho Port
- About 7 minutes walk from Olive Park Entrance bus stop
Opening Hours
- Park: Open 24 hours
- Olive Museum: 8:30~17:00
- Admission: Free
Twenty-Four Eyes Movie Village
A facility that preserves the movie set of Sakae Tsuboi’s novel “Twenty-Four Eyes,” retaining the atmosphere of the early Showa period.
Characteristics
- Reproduces wooden school buildings and houses from the Taisho and early Showa periods
- Retro atmosphere matches the worldview of the work
- Also appears as a background in the work
Facility Contents
- Set of the film “Twenty-Four Eyes”
- Recreation of a Showa-era classroom
- Kinema no Iori (movie-related exhibits)
- Dining hall and café also available
Access
- About 30 minutes by car from Tonosho Port
- Right at Taura Movie Village bus stop
Opening Hours and Admission
- 9:00~17:00 (admission until 16:30)
- Admission: Adults 890 yen, Children 450 yen
Labyrinth Town (Tonosho Honmachi)
The old town area around Tonosho Port is called “Labyrinth Town,” characterized by a unique townscape with intricate narrow alleyways.
Characteristics
- Complex town layout built as a pirate defense
- Retro Showa-era shopping street atmosphere
- Appears in scenes where Nishikata and Takagi-san walk
Highlights
- Yokai Art Museum: Collaboration exhibits with the Mizuki Shigeru Road
- Old house cafés and miscellaneous goods shops
- Photogenic alleyways
Tips for Strolling
- Easy to get lost even with a map, so allow plenty of time
- Remember this is a residential space for residents, so stroll quietly
- Especially good atmosphere in early morning or evening
Access
- About 5 minutes on foot from Tonosho Port
Shodoshima Town Public Library
The model for the library where Nishikata and Takagi-san study and meet in the work.
Characteristics
- An actual public library in use
- Reading room atmosphere similar to the work
- Quiet and peaceful space
Important Notes When Visiting
- As an active library, act considerately toward other users
- Photography inside the facility is basically prohibited
- Maintain silence
- Adhere strictly to library etiquette even for pilgrimage purposes
Access
- About 5 minutes by car from Ikeda Port
- About 5 minutes walk from Kusukabe Honmachi bus stop
Kankakei Gorge
A scenic spot counted as one of Japan’s three great gorges, and also appears in the work as beautiful natural scenery.
Characteristics
- A gorge with unique rock formations created by volcanic activity about 13 million years ago
- Accessible to the mountain-top observation deck by ropeway
- Particularly beautiful with fresh spring greenery and autumn foliage
Ropeway Information
- Operating Hours: 8:30~17:00 (varies by season)
- Fare: Round-trip Adults 1,890 yen, Children 950 yen
- Travel Time: About 5 minutes one-way
Access
- About 25 minutes by car from Tonosho Port
- Right at Kouin-tei bus stop from the ropeway station
Shio no Sato (Soy Sauce Village)
An area where the traditional soy sauce brewing townscape of Shodoshima remains.
Characteristics
- Row of black-walled soy sauce storehouses with retro scenery
- Appears as a background in the work
- Also enjoy gourmet such as soy sauce soft-serve ice cream
Main Sightseeing Spots
- Marukin Soy Sauce Museum: Exhibits the history of soy sauce making
- Yamamaru Soy Sauce: Traditional wooden barrel brewing available for viewing
- Direct sales shops at various soy sauce storehouses
Access
- About 20 minutes by car from Tonosho Port
- About 5 minutes walk from Naeba/Maki bus stop
Shodoshima Coastline and Beaches
Coastline that appears in scenes where Nishikata and Takagi-san gaze at the sea, and summer episodes in the work.
Main Beaches
- Olive Beach: Calm beach near Olive Park
- Yoshida Coast: Quiet beach loved by locals
- Tai Beach: Highly transparent, beautiful beach
Ways to Enjoy
- Sea bathing possible in summer
- Walking recommended at sunset
- Experience the atmosphere of the work while gazing at the sea
Shopping Street and Penny Candy Shops
Locations that served as models for the shopping streets and penny candy shops where Nishikata and friends stop by in the work.
Characteristics
- Shopping street with retro Showa atmosphere
- Actual operating penny candy shops and stores
- Local interaction also a charm
Important Notes When Visiting
- These are operating shops, so be considerate of shoppers
- Obtain permission from the shopkeeper before photographing
- Purchase something even if small to contribute to the community
Recommended Pilgrimage Model Courses
1-Day Course (Using Rental Car)
Morning
- Arrive at Tonosho Port (9:00)
- View Tonosho Junior High School area (9:15~9:45)
- Explore Labyrinth Town (9:50~10:30)
- Angel Road (timed with low tide) (10:45~11:30)
- Shodoshima Olive Park (11:45~13:00, including lunch)
Afternoon
- Kankakei Ropeway (13:30~15:00)
- Soy Sauce Village storehouses viewing and souvenir shopping (15:30~16:30)
- View sunset at the coast (17:00~17:30)
- Return journey from Tonosho Port (18:00 ferry departure)
1-Night, 2-Day Course (Leisurely Pilgrimage)
Day 1
- Morning: Arrive at Tonosho Port → Angel Road → Labyrinth Town
- Afternoon: Shodoshima Olive Park → Twenty-Four Eyes Movie Village
- Evening: Sunset viewing at the coast
- Accommodation: Hotel or minshuku on the island
Day 2
- Morning: Tonosho Junior High School area → Library → Shopping street exploration
- Afternoon: Kankakei → Soy Sauce Village → Souvenir shopping
- Evening: Return journey from Tonosho Port
Half-Day Course (For Limited Time)
- Arrive at Tonosho Port
- Tonosho Junior High School area (30 minutes)
- Angel Road (45 minutes)
- Shodoshima Olive Park (1 hour)
- Return to Tonosho Port
Pilgrimage Essentials and Preparation
Essential Items
- Work References: Screenshots from the anime and pilgrimage maps
- Camera/Smartphone: For recording memories
- Map and Guidebook: Paper maps useful as some areas have weak signal
- Drinks and Sunscreen: Especially essential in summer
- Comfortable Walking Shoes: Many slopes and stairs
- Mobile Battery: Photography drains batteries quickly
Useful Items
- Leisure Sheet: For relaxing at beaches and parks
- Hat/Parasol: During times of strong sunlight
- Rainwear: Prepare for weather changes
- Eco Bag: For souvenir purchases
Pilgrimage Etiquette and Rules
Basic Manners
- Prohibition of Entering Private Land and School Facilities
- View educational facilities like Tonosho Junior High School from outside the grounds
- Never enter private homes or private land
- Consideration for Noise
- Act quietly in residential areas and around schools
- Avoid loud conversations and shouting
- Photography Etiquette
- Be considerate so residents and other tourists don’t appear in photos
- Always obtain permission before photographing inside shops
- Photograph from locations that don’t obstruct traffic
- Always Take Garbage Home
- To preserve the beautiful island environment
- Prepare to take trash home as garbage bins are limited
- Contributing to Local Economy
- Utilize local restaurants and shops
- Purchase souvenirs to support the region
Time-Based Considerations
- School Areas: Avoid during school arrival/departure times (7:30~8:30, 15:00~17:00)
- Residential Areas: Avoid early morning or nighttime visits
- Shops: Visit during business hours and avoid meal breaks
Shodoshima Gourmet and Souvenirs
Must-Try Gourmet
Olive-Related
- Olive Somen: Specialty product of Shodoshima
- Olive Oil Dishes: Offered at many island restaurants
- Olive Soft-Serve Ice Cream: Available at Olive Park and elsewhere
Soy Sauce-Related
- Soy Sauce Soft-Serve Ice Cream: Surprisingly delicious
- Dishes Using Soy Sauce: Tsukudani, simmered dishes, etc.
- Soy Sauce Ramen: Available at island ramen shops
Seafood
- Fresh Seto Inland Sea fish and shellfish
- Seafood Rice Bowl: At restaurants near the port
- Conger Eel Dishes: A specialty of Shodoshima
Other
- Shio Donburi: Specialty bowl dish from the soy sauce village area
- Tsukudani: Shodoshima is one of the birthplaces of tsukudani
Recommended Souvenirs
- Olive Oil: High-quality olive oil from Shodoshima
- Olive Cosmetics: Soap and cream using olives
- Soy Sauce: Traditionally wooden barrel-brewed soy sauce
- Somen: Shodoshima hand-drawn somen noodles
- Tsukudani: Assorted tsukudani collections
- Olive Chocolate: Popular souvenir
- Work-Related Goods: Available at some tourist facilities and shops
Accommodation Information
Hotels and Resorts
- Shodoshima International Hotel: Near Angel Road, has hot springs
- Resort Hotel Olivian Shodoshima: Near Olive Park, full resort atmosphere
- Shodoshima Grand Hotel Suimei: Near Tonosho Port, convenient access
Minshuku and Guest Houses
- Minshuku: Located throughout the island, home-like atmosphere and reasonable prices
- Guest Houses: Popular with young travelers, good for socializing
- Farm Minshuku: Accommodations where agricultural experience is possible
Campgrounds
- Shodoshima Furusato Village Campground: Seaside campground
- Auto Campground: Facilities allowing vehicle entry
Reservation Tips
- Early reservations essential during peak season (Golden Week, summer vacation, fall foliage season)
- Prioritize locations convenient for pilgrimage
- Compare room-only plans and meal-included plans
- Choose based on customer reviews
Highlights by Season
Spring (March~May)
- Cherry Blossom Blooming: Cherry blossoms enjoyable at various island locations
- Fresh Greenery at Kankakei: Vibrant green scenery beautiful
- Comfortable, mild climate
- Olive Flowers: Small white flowers bloom late May to early June
Summer (June~August)
- Sea Bathing Season: July~August is best
- Summer Festivals: Traditional festivals held in various districts
- Blue Sea and Sky: Recreate summer scenes from the work
- Strong sunlight, heat stroke prevention essential
Autumn (September~November)
- Fall Foliage at Kankakei: Best viewed mid to late November
- Olive Harvest: October~November
- Pleasant climate ideal for pilgrimage
- Autumn Festivals: Traditional performances enjoyable
Winter (December~February)
- Warm Climate: Relatively warm due to Seto Inland Sea climate
- Few Tourists: Can pilgrim quietly
- Clear Air: Scenery clear
- Winter Delicacies: Enjoy seasonal flavors like oysters
- Some facilities may have shortened hours or closures
Background Knowledge to Enhance Enjoyment of the Work
About “Teasing Master Takagi-san”
The original is a manga by Soichiro Yamamoto, serialized in “Gesssan” (Shogakukan) since 2013. It depicts the bittersweet middle school daily life of Nishikata, who is teased every day by his seatmate Takagi-san, and Takagi-san, who loves teasing Nishikata.
The anime aired its first season in 2018, second season in 2019, and third season in 2022, with a theatrical film also released in 2022. In season 3, the relationship between the two deepens further, becoming a major topic of discussion among fans.
Why Shodoshima Was Chosen as the Setting
Creator Soichiro Yamamoto is a native of Kagawa Prefecture, and it is said that Shodoshima’s peaceful atmosphere and beautiful nature perfectly matched the worldview of the work, leading to its selection as the story setting model. Locations actually visited during research are faithfully depicted in the work, with realistic background art being one of the attractions of the piece.
History of Pilgrimage
Following the broadcast of the first anime season, fans visiting Shodoshima increased, and the local area came to recognize “Teasing Master Takagi-san” as a pilgrimage site. The tourism association also created pilgrimage maps and established systems welcoming fans.
Surrounding Tourist Attractions
Naoshima Island
An island of contemporary art accessible by boat from Shodoshima. Internationally famous as the Benesse Art Site Naoshima.
- From Shodoshima: Tonosho Port~Naoshima (Miyaura Port) about 20 minutes
- Yayoi Kusama’s “Red Pumpkin” and “Yellow Pumpkin” and other art works
- Underground Museum, Benesse House Museum, etc.
Teshima Island
An island where art works are scattered, with the “Teshima Art Museum” particularly famous.
- From Shodoshima: Tonosho Port~Teshima (Ieura Port) about 25 minutes
- Peaceful island atmosphere
- Island touring by rental bicycle recommended
Takamatsu City
Kagawa Prefecture’s prefectural capital and gateway to Shodoshima.
- Ritsurin Garden: Garden designated as a national special place of scenic beauty
- Takamatsu Castle Ruins (Tamamo Park)
- Udon Tour: The birthplace of Sanuki udon
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
Q: Can I complete the pilgrimage in one day?
A: It’s possible if visiting only major spots, but 1 night 2 days is recommended for enjoying leisurely. Consider travel time within the island and plan with ample time.
Q: Can I do the pilgrimage without a driver’s license?
A: It’s possible. By combining rental bicycles (electric bicycles), local buses, and taxis, you can visit major spots. However, as bus service is limited, check the timetable in advance.
Q: What’s the best season for pilgrimage?
A: Spring (April~May) and autumn (October~November) are recommended for comfortable weather. Summer allows sea bathing but requires heat precautions; winter has fewer tourists and allows quiet pilgrimage.
Q: Can I visit Tonosho Junior High School?
A: As an active school facility, entry onto the grounds is not permitted. Viewing the exterior from the front gate or surrounding public roads is only permitted. Act considerately toward school personnel and students.
Q: When can I walk on Angel Road?
A: The passable time is approximately 2 hours before and after low tide. Low tide times change daily, so check the Shodoshima Tourism Association website or local information centers.
Q: Are there souvenirs only available on Shodoshima?
A: Shodoshima-produced olive oil, hand-drawn somen noodles, and traditionally wooden barrel-brewed soy sauce are representative. Some shops also sell “Teasing Master Takagi-san” related goods.
Q: Is accommodation reservation necessary?
A: Essential during peak season (Golden Week, summer vacation, fall foliage season). Even during off-season, weekends may be crowded, so advance reservation is recommended.
Q: Can I use Wi-Fi on the island?
A: Free Wi-Fi is available at major tourist facilities, hotels, and cafés, but island-wide coverage is not complete. Prepare offline-usable map apps for peace of mind.
Conclusion: Points for Successful Pilgrimage
Shodoshima, the pilgrimage site of “Teasing Master Takagi-san³” in Kagawa Prefecture, is a fascinating place where you can fully experience the worldview of the work. Here are the points for successful pilgrimage:
Advance Preparation is Important
- Confirm ferry timetables and secure round-trip reservations
- Research low tide times and plan Angel Road visits
- Make accommodation reservations early
- Prepare work screenshots and pilgrimage maps
- Make rental car or electric bicycle reservations
Enjoy While Following Manners
- Do not enter school facilities or private land
- Remember consideration for residents and other tourists
- Act quietly and avoid loud voices
- Always take garbage home
- Support the region by using local shops
Efficient Route Planning
- Make realistic plans considering travel time
- Incorporate Angel Road timed with low tide
- Prioritize major spots
- Set schedule with ample time
Experience Unique to Shodoshima
- Savor local cuisine (olives, soy sauce, seafood)
- Enjoy beautiful natural scenery
- Interact with local people
- Spend time leisurely immersed in the work’s worldview
Pilgrimage on Shodoshima is not just visiting the anime setting but also experiencing many attractions: the beautiful nature of the Seto Inland Sea, warm climate, delicious gourmet, and warm encounters with island people. Witnessing the actual landscapes where Nishikata and Takagi-san spent their days will deepen your understanding and affection for the work.
Please enjoy a wonderful pilgrimage trip while following etiquette and showing respect for the region. I hope Shodoshima becomes a special place for you.
