![[After School Fishing Log] Ashikita Town, Ashikita District, Kumamoto Prefecture](https://anime-place.site/cms/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/places-1414-放課後ていぼう日誌-熊本県-聖地巡礼.jpg)
【After School Patrol Log】 Ashikita Town, Ashikita District, Kumamoto Prefecture
Introduction: What is “After School Patrol Log”?
“After School Patrol Log” is a manga work by Yasuyuki Kosaka that was broadcast as a television anime from April to September 2020. It tells the story of the protagonist Hina Tsurugi (鶴木陽渚), who moves from the city and joins the patrol club, awakening to the joy of fishing.
One of the major attractions of this work is its faithful depiction of the beautiful coastal scenery of Kumamoto Prefecture. The background art, modeled on real locations, is highly popular among fans as a “sacred site pilgrimage” destination.
This article will provide a thorough explanation of the sacred sites related to “After School Patrol Log” in Kumamoto Prefecture. It includes information about actual visit methods, recommended routes, and surrounding tourism information, covering everything useful for those planning a sacred site pilgrimage.
The Setting of the Work: About Ashikita Town, Kumamoto Prefecture
Overview and Geography of Ashikita Town
The main setting of “After School Patrol Log” is Ashikita Town (芦北町) in Ashikita District, Kumamoto Prefecture. Located in southern Kumamoto Prefecture facing the Shiranui Sea (不知火海), Ashikita Town is a town of approximately 15,000 residents, characterized by beautiful coastlines and a warm climate.
The Shiranui Sea is a calm inland sea known as a fishing spot, where the types of fishing shown in the work—such as breakwater fishing, saury fishing, and casting—can actually be enjoyed in a well-equipped environment.
Why Ashikita Town Was Chosen as the Setting
Original author Yasuyuki Kosaka is from Kumamoto Prefecture and is familiar with the landscapes and fishing culture of Ashikita Town. The work features numerous real locations, with familiar local scenery faithfully recreated in the anime.
During anime production, the production staff actually visited Ashikita Town for location scouting, faithfully depicting everything from building layouts to ocean colors and atmosphere. This meticulous attention to reality enhances the appeal of sacred site pilgrimages.
Detailed Major Sacred Site Pilgrimage Spots
1. Ashikita Town Hall and Surrounding Area
Appearance: Frequently appears in Episode 1 and other episodes as the town scenery
Ashikita Town Hall is located near the model for “Unino High School” in the work and is depicted as the town center. The actual area surrounding the town hall has a similar atmosphere to the town depicted in the anime.
Access Information:
- Address: 2015 Ashikita, Ashikita Town, Ashikita District, Kumamoto Prefecture
- About 15 minutes walk from “Shajiki Station” on the Hisatsu Oranges Railway
- Parking: Public parking lot available near town hall (parking lot use is recommended for sacred site pilgrims)
Pilgrimage Points:
The town hall itself is a public facility, so care must be taken not to interfere with operations. You can enjoy the surrounding streetscape and take photos from the same angles as in the anime.
2. Shajiki Castle Ruins (Shiraki Mountain)
Appearance: Opening images, scenes overlooking the town, etc.
Shajiki Castle Ruins are located on a high point with a panoramic view of Ashikita Town and served as a model for scenes in the work where the entire town is viewed from above. It’s particularly memorable in the opening images and is a must-see spot for sacred site pilgrimages.
Access Information:
- Address: Shajiki, Ashikita Town, Ashikita District, Kumamoto Prefecture
- About 10 minutes by car from Shajiki Station, or about 40 minutes on foot (hiking trail available)
- Parking: A few parking spaces available at the base of the mountain
Pilgrimage Points:
From the mountaintop at approximately 200 meters in elevation, you can see a panoramic view of the Shiranui Sea and Ashikita Town. The scenery at dusk is particularly spectacular and perfect for recreating scenes from the anime. The hiking trail is well-maintained, but comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended.
3. Otachi Misaki Park (御立岬公園)
Appearance: Fishing scenes in Episode 3, camping scenes in Episode 7, etc.
Otachi Misaki Park is one of Ashikita Town’s representative tourist attractions and appears in the work as an important setting multiple times. Within its vast grounds are a campground, beach, observation deck, and other facilities, depicted as the location where patrol club members are active.
Access Information:
- Address: 145 Taura-cho, Ashikita Town, Ashikita District, Kumamoto Prefecture
- About 15 minutes walk from “Tanoura Otachi Misaki Park Station” on the Hisatsu Oranges Railway
- About 10 minutes by car from “Taura IC” on the Kyushu Expressway
- Parking: Free parking available (approximately 500 spaces)
Pilgrimage Points:
The breakwater in the park is an actual fishing spot where you can enjoy the same types of fishing as in the work—saury fishing and casting. However, if you fish, you must prepare fishing equipment and follow local fishing rules.
The campground is also available for actual use, allowing you to experience the camping scenes from the work. Reservations may be required during certain periods, so check in advance.
Facility Information:
- Operating hours: Vary by facility (Campground check-in 14:00, check-out 10:00)
- Admission: Free, campground use fee (tent site 3,000 yen per section and up)
- Inquiries: 0966-87-0737 (Otachi Misaki Park Management Office)
4. Michi no Eki Tanoura (Roadside Station Tanoura)
Appearance: Shopping and rest scenes in Episode 5 and other episodes
Michi no Eki Tanoura is a roadside station along National Route 3, appearing in the anime as a place where members stop to prepare for fishing or take a break. Local specialties and fresh seafood are sold there, making it an ideal rest stop for sacred site pilgrims.
Access Information:
- Address: 162-1 Taura, Ashikita Town, Ashikita District, Kumamoto Prefecture
- About 3 minutes walk from “Tanoura Otachi Misaki Park Station” on the Hisatsu Oranges Railway
- Along National Route 3
- Parking: Free parking available (73 regular vehicles, 7 large vehicles)
Pilgrimage Points:
The facility has a tourism information corner for Ashikita Town where you may be able to obtain sacred site pilgrimage maps. There’s also a dining area serving local seafood, and you can enjoy local gourmet foods such as dekopon soft-serve ice cream.
Business Information:
- Operating hours: 9:00-18:00 (varies by store)
- Closed: Second Wednesday of each month (open year-round in August)
- Inquiries: 0966-87-9737
5. Shajiki Port and Tsurugahama Beach Surrounding Area
Appearance: Breakwater fishing scenes in Episode 1, beach scenes in Episode 6, etc.
The area around Shajiki Port is the setting for important scenes where protagonist Hina attempts breakwater fishing for the first time. The actual breakwater shape and surrounding buildings are faithfully recreated in the anime, making this a core pilgrimage spot.
Access Information:
- Address: Shajiki, Ashikita Town, Ashikita District, Kumamoto Prefecture
- About 10 minutes walk from Shajiki Station on the Hisatsu Oranges Railway
- A few parking spaces available around the port
Pilgrimage Points:
The breakwater is an actual fishing location, but care must be taken not to disturb local fishers. Especially on weekends and early mornings when many fishers are present, keep photography subdued.
From the coastal walking path, you can enjoy views of the calm Shiranui Sea and fully experience the atmosphere of the work.
6. Ashikita Seaside Comprehensive Park
Appearance: Fishing tournament scenes in Episode 9, etc.
Ashikita Seaside Comprehensive Park is a park with vast grassland and a coastline, appearing in the work as a location where fishing tournaments are held. Fishing is actually possible in some areas, and it’s popular with families.
Access Information:
- Address: 1400 Tsurugiyama, Ashikita Town, Ashikita District, Kumamoto Prefecture
- About 5 minutes by car from “Minoura Station” on the Hisatsu Oranges Railway
- Parking: Free parking available
Pilgrimage Points:
The park has well-maintained walking paths where you can stroll along the coast and recall scenes from the anime. There are also picnic areas, making it recommended for a leisurely day out with a packed lunch.
7. Hisatsu Oranges Railway Stations
Appearance: Opening, ending, travel scenes, etc.
The Hisatsu Oranges Railway connects Yatsushiro Station to Sendai Station in Kagoshima Prefecture and appears in the work as the transportation method used by club members when traveling. Stations such as “Shajiki Station,” “Tanoura Otachi Misaki Park Station,” and “Minoura Station” appear in the work.
Access Information:
- Main stations: Shajiki Station, Tanoura Otachi Misaki Park Station, Minoura Station
- Frequency: 1-2 trains per hour
- Fares: Vary by section (approximately 320 yen one-way between Shajiki and Tanoura Otachi Misaki Park)
Pilgrimage Points:
Riding the Hisatsu Oranges Railway and enjoying the same scenery as the work’s characters is part of the appeal of sacred site pilgrimages. The view from the train window of the beautiful Shiranui Sea is particularly spectacular, especially at dusk.
Some trains have collaborated with “After School Patrol Log,” and posters and panels may be displayed at stations.
Model Courses for Sacred Site Pilgrimages
1-Day Course: Conquering Major Spots Plan
Duration: Approximately 8 hours (including travel time)
9:00 – Arrival at Shajiki Station
Arrive at Shajiki Station on the Hisatsu Oranges Railway. Enjoy the area around the station and walk toward the town hall.
9:30 – Stroll Around Ashikita Town Hall
Explore the town center and photograph the streetscapes appearing in the anime.
10:30 – Shajiki Port and Breakwater
Visit the breakwater, the setting for important scenes in Episode 1. Spend time gazing at the sea and immersing yourself in the world of the work.
12:00 – Lunch at Michi no Eki Tanoura
Travel to the roadside station and enjoy local cuisine while checking out souvenirs.
13:30 – Otachi Misaki Park
Spend the afternoon leisurely at the park. Enjoy the views from the observation deck and try fishing if possible.
16:00 – Shajiki Castle Ruins (if time and energy permit)
Hike to Shajiki Castle Ruins before sunset to enjoy the spectacular panoramic views of the town.
17:30 – Return Journey from Shajiki Station
Half-Day Course: Compact Pilgrimage Plan
Duration: Approximately 4 hours
13:00 – Arrival at Tanoura Otachi Misaki Park Station
13:15 – Michi no Eki Tanoura
Light refreshments, rest, and information gathering.
14:00 – Otachi Misaki Park
Thoroughly explore the main spot.
16:00 – Shajiki Station Area
Travel by train and explore the Shajiki Port area and surroundings.
17:00 – Return Journey
2-Day Course: Thorough Enjoyment Plan
Day 1:
- Morning: Shajiki Station area, town hall, Shajiki Castle Ruins
- Afternoon: Shajiki Port, Tsurugahama Beach surrounding area
- Evening: Camping at Otachi Misaki Park (overnight stay)
Day 2:
- Morning: Early morning fishing experience at Otachi Misaki Park
- Afternoon: Ashikita Seaside Comprehensive Park, Michi no Eki Tanoura
- Evening: Return by Hisatsu Oranges Railway while viewing the sunset
Access Methods and Transportation
Access from Kumamoto City
By Train:
- JR Kagoshima Main Line from Kumamoto Station to Yatsushiro Station (about 40 minutes on express)
- Transfer to Hisatsu Oranges Railway at Yatsushiro Station
- To Shajiki Station or Tanoura Otachi Misaki Park Station (approximately 30-40 minutes)
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours
Fare: Approximately 1,500-2,000 yen one-way
By Car:
- Use the Kyushu Expressway
- Exit at Matsushige IC or Yatsushiro IC
- Head south on National Route 3 toward Ashikita Town
Duration: Approximately 1-1.5 hours from Kumamoto City
Distance: Approximately 70 km
Access from Fukuoka and Kagoshima Areas
From Fukuoka:
- Kyushu Shinkansen to Shin-Yatsushiro Station (about 1 hour from Hakata)
- From Shin-Yatsushiro Station by taxi or rental car to Ashikita Town (about 30 minutes)
From Kagoshima:
- Head north on Hisatsu Oranges Railway
- From Sendai Station to Shajiki Station (approximately 1.5 hours)
Rental Car Information
As there are few rental car outlets in Ashikita Town itself, renting at Yatsushiro or Kumamoto stations is recommended. Major rental companies have offices near the stations.
Rental Car Advantages:
- Efficiently visit multiple spots
- Easier luggage transportation
- Less time constraints
Public Transportation Advantages:
- Better experience of the work’s atmosphere
- No driving fatigue
- Environment-friendly
Precautions When Fishing
Necessary Preparations and Equipment
Many sacred site pilgrims want to experience actual fishing. The following preparations are necessary.
Basic Equipment:
- Fishing rod and reel (can rent or purchase locally)
- Tackle (saury tackle, casting tackle, etc.)
- Bait (brine shrimp, krill, etc.)
- Cooler box (to bring caught fish home)
- Bucket
- Towel
Clothing:
- Clothes you don’t mind getting dirty
- Hat (sun protection)
- Non-slip shoes
- Sunscreen
How to Obtain Fishing Equipment
Local Fishing Supply Shops:
There are fishing shops around Ashikita Town where you can purchase tackle and bait. The staff can also tell you about recommended spots and what fish are catching that day.
Michi no Eki Tanoura:
Simple fishing equipment sets may be sold there.
Rentals:
Otachi Misaki Park may offer fishing rod rental services (verify in advance).
Fishing Rules and Etiquette
- Always take trash with you: Fishing line and tackle waste are dangerous to marine life.
- Do not enter off-limits areas: Some port facilities prohibit fishing.
- Respect local fishers: Don’t take spots used by regulars.
- Keep quiet: Be especially quiet in early mornings and evenings.
- Handle caught fish carefully: Release fish you won’t eat; return small fish to the water to conserve resources.
- Safety first: Beware of falling from breakwaters; wearing a life jacket is recommended.
Fish by Season (What You Can Catch)
Spring (March-May):
- Rockfish, horse mackerel, sand eel, black sea bream
Summer (June-August):
- Horse mackerel, mackerel, sand eel, small migratory fish
Autumn (September-November):
- Horse mackerel, mackerel, cutlassfish, Japanese squid
Winter (December-February):
- Rockfish, false scorpionfish, flatfish
The fish caught by club members in the work can actually be caught in these seasons.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Yunoko Onsen
Located in southern Ashikita Town, this hot spring area offers spectacular open-air baths overlooking the Shiranui Sea. It’s perfect for relaxing after sacred site pilgrimage activities.
Access: About 15 minutes by car from Shajiki Station
Day-trip Bath: Available at most inns (approximately 500-1,000 yen)
Tsunagi Town Museum of Art
Located in the neighboring town of Tsunagi, this museum features contemporary art. It sits on a high point overlooking the sea, and the building itself is beautiful.
Access: About 15 minutes walk from “Tsunagi Station” on the Hisatsu Oranges Railway
Hours: 10:00-17:00 (Closed Tuesdays)
Admission: 500 yen for general admission
Hitoyoshi and Kuma District
If time permits, consider traveling inland to Hitoyoshi City. You can enjoy Kumase River boat rides, Hitoyoshi Castle ruins, hot springs, and other attractions of southern Kumamoto.
Access: About 1 hour from Yatsushiro Station on JR Hisatsu Line
Accommodation Information
Lodging Facilities in Ashikita Town
Otachi Misaki Park Campground:
- The most immersive way to experience the work’s atmosphere
- Tent sites, bungalows, log houses available
- Cost: Tent sites from 3,000 yen, bungalows from 5,000 yen
- Reservations: By phone or website
Minshuku and Inns:
Several minshuku and inns in Ashikita Town offer meals featuring fresh seafood.
- Cost: 1 night with 2 meals approximately 7,000-10,000 yen
Lodging Facilities in Nearby Areas
Hotels in Yatsushiro City:
Yatsushiro City, about 30 minutes by car from Ashikita Town, has numerous business and city hotels.
- Cost: Singles approximately 5,000-8,000 yen
- Advantage: Many dining options available at night
Inns at Yunoko Onsen:
Hot spring inns offering both hot springs and fresh seafood.
- Cost: 1 night with 2 meals approximately 10,000-20,000 yen
- Advantage: Can relax in a hot spring
Gourmet Information: Specialties of Ashikita Town
Fresh Seafood
Fish and shellfish from the Shiranui Sea are delicious. Particularly recommended are:
Cutlassfish:
A specialty of Ashikita Town, oily cutlassfish is excellent as sashimi or salt-grilled. You can enjoy it at roadside stations and local restaurants.
Horse Mackerel and Mackerel:
Frequently caught in the work, fresh horse mackerel sashimi and salt-grilled mackerel are exceptional.
Oysters:
Available seasonally in winter, Ashikita oysters are large and rich-tasting. Oyster shacks offering all-you-can-eat are popular.
Dekopon
Kumamoto Prefecture, including Ashikita Town, is known as the birthplace of dekopon (a citrus variety). At Michi no Eki Tanoura, sweets and juices using dekopon are sold.
Recommendation: Dekopon soft-serve ice cream (available at Michi no Eki Tanoura)
Local Restaurants
Seafood Restaurants:
Around Shajiki Station and along National Route 3 are restaurants where you can enjoy seafood set meals.
- Cost: Seafood set meals approximately 1,000-1,500 yen
Ramen Shops:
Following Kumamoto ramen tradition, shops serving rich tonkotsu ramen are available.
Souvenir Information
Work-Related Merchandise
Michi no Eki Tanoura:
Collaboration merchandise with “After School Patrol Log” may be sold, including postcards, clear files, and limited edition items. Check them out!
Hisatsu Oranges Railway Stations:
Some stations display posters and panels from the work, making them memorial photo spots.
Local Specialties
Seafood Products:
- Dried cutlassfish
- Whitebait (chirimen-jako)
- Seaweed
- Salted seafood
Dekopon-Related Products:
- Dekopon jelly
- Dekopon juice
- Dekopon jam
Local Sake:
Kumamoto Prefecture sake and shochu are abundant.
Precautions and Etiquette When Visiting
Consideration for Local Residents
Sacred site pilgrimages are enjoyable, but Ashikita Town is first and foremost where local people live. Please note the following:
- Do not trespass on private property: Even if a location appears in the work, it may be private.
- Keep noise levels down: Be especially quiet in early mornings and evenings.
- Take trash with you: Always dispose of garbage properly to keep the town beautiful.
- Follow traffic rules: Avoid illegal parking and dangerous photo locations.
- Patronize local shops: Using local stores for meals and shopping supports the local economy.
Photography Etiquette
- Respect privacy: Be considerate to avoid including local residents in photos.
- Follow facility rules: Do not photograph in photography-prohibited areas.
- Avoid tripod use: Using tripods on sidewalks or narrow areas obstructs foot traffic.
- Avoid monopolizing spaces: Be considerate of other tourists and pilgrims.
Safety Precautions
- Prevent sea accidents: Breakwaters and rocks are slippery; wearing a life jacket is recommended.
- Heat stroke prevention: Hydrate frequently, especially in summer.
- Check weather: Coastal weather changes rapidly; check forecasts beforehand.
- Confirm sunset times: Plan early activities, especially in winter when daylight is shorter.
Recommended Visiting Season by Season
Spring (March-May)
Advantages:
- Mild, comfortable weather
- Spring flowers available
- Beginning of fishing season
Disadvantages:
- Possible crowding during Golden Week
Recommendation: ★★★★★
Summer (June-August)
Advantages:
- Beach swimming available
- Same seasonal feeling as anime broadcast
- Summer fishing season
Disadvantages:
- Extremely hot (heat stroke risk)
- Rainy rainy season (June-early July)
Recommendation: ★★★☆☆
Autumn (September-November)
Advantages:
- Most comfortable weather
- Autumn cuisine available
- Cutlassfish and fall fishing season
- Autumn leaves viewable (November)
Disadvantages:
- Typhoon season (September-October)
Recommendation: ★★★★★
Winter (December-February)
Advantages:
- Few tourists, peaceful
- Winter cuisine like oysters delicious
- Clear air, beautiful views
Disadvantages:
- Cold (though Kumamoto’s south is relatively warm)
- Short days
- Possible facility closures
Recommendation: ★★★☆☆
Overall Best Seasons: Spring (April-May) and Autumn (October-November) are recommended.
Hints for Enjoying Sacred Site Pilgrimages More
Prior Preparation
- Rewatch the anime: Revisiting the anime before visiting increases the emotional impact.
- Obtain pilgrimage maps: Gather information from the internet and fan sites.
- Research shooting angles: Saving anime screenshots helps you photograph from the same angles.
- Check weather forecasts: Coastal weather is changeable.
Ways to Enjoy at the Destination
- Take your time: Enjoy the town’s atmosphere slowly rather than rushing.
- Interact with locals: Conversations with shop owners and restaurant staff are enjoyable.
- Try actual fishing: Experiencing the work’s world is the best way.
- Enjoy seasonal scenery: Appreciate landscapes unique to your visit season.
Social Media Sharing
When sharing your sacred site pilgrimage on social media, these hashtags are helpful:
- #放課後ていぼう日誌
- #ていぼう日誌
- #聖地巡礼
- #芦北町
- #熊本
- #肥薩おれんじ鉄道
You can also reference other fans’ posts and exchange information.
Conclusion: The Appeal of “After School Patrol Log” Sacred Site Pilgrimage
The sacred site pilgrimage of “After School Patrol Log” offers value beyond simply visiting anime filming locations. Beautiful nature, warm people, delicious seafood, and the experiential joy of fishing in Ashikita Town—when combined, these create a truly special trip.
Visiting a town discovered through anime deepens your understanding of the work and allows you to rediscover the charm of Japan’s rural areas. It may also introduce you to fishing as a new hobby.
Ashikita Town is not a major tourist destination, but that’s precisely why it preserves simple Japanese scenery and a calm pace of life. Why not escape your busy daily routine, immerse yourself in the world of “After School Patrol Log,” and spend peaceful moments there?
Through sacred site pilgrimages, your love for the work deepens, and Ashikita Town may become a precious new place in your heart. Remember to maintain respect for the community and practice courteous pilgrimage.
May your sacred site pilgrimage create wonderful memories.
