【Nagi no Asukara】 Kumano City, Mie Prefecture

Introduction: The Deep Connection Between ‘Nagi no Asukara’ and Kumano City, Mie Prefecture

‘Nagi no Asukara’ (Nagi Asu), an anime produced by P.A.WORKS that aired from October 2013 to March 2014, is a work that depicts the wavering romance of adolescents against the backdrop of a world where people live both in the sea and on land. The beautiful seascapes and delicate human drama captured the hearts of many fans, and even more than 10 years after its broadcast, it continues to enjoy strong popularity.

The setting model for this work is Kumano City in Mie Prefecture. Located in the southeastern part of the Kii Peninsula, Kumano City is known for scenic areas such as the World Heritage site “Kumano Kodo” and “Onigajou.” Starting with the former Hatasu Elementary School, which served as the model for Namiji Junior High School in the anime, actual landscapes such as Shinshika Beach, Nigi Island, and Omotomari have been faithfully recreated in the animation.

This article provides comprehensive information for fans planning a pilgrimage to holy sites of ‘Nagi no Asukara,’ including detailed information on 17 major spots, access methods, efficient pilgrimage routes, and the latest collaboration project information.

Complete Map of Kumano City Holy Site Pilgrimage Spots

Distribution and Geographic Characteristics of Holy Sites

The holy sites of ‘Nagi no Asukara’ are scattered along the coastal areas of Kumano City, Mie Prefecture, and the adjacent Kihoku Town Kiinagashima District. The main holy site areas are as follows:

Kumano City Hatasu District: The core of holy sites centered around the former Hatasu Elementary School (model of Namiji Junior High School)
Kumano City Shinshika District: Shinshika Beach, Sayamart Shinshika Store, and other settings for important scenes in the work
Kumano City Nigi Island District: Beautiful coastal scenery reminiscent of the work’s world
Kumano City Omotomari District: Coastal lines around Onigajou appear in the work
Kihoku Town Kiinagashima District: Akahane Stepping Stone Crossing, Kiryuu Shipbuilding, and others

These spots are scattered over more than 20km along Kumano City’s coastline, so planning is crucial for efficient pilgrimage.

【Must-Visit】Former Hatasu Elementary School (Model of Namiji Junior High School and Mihama Junior High School)

The absolute must-see spot on a holy site pilgrimage is the former Hatasu Elementary School, which served as the model for Namiji Junior High School that Hikari and others attend in the work, as well as Mihama Junior High School, the school on land.

Basic Information:

Location: Kumano City Hatasu Town, Mie Prefecture
Access: About 30 minutes by bus from Kumano City Station to “Hatasu-guchi” bus stop, then about 10 minutes on foot
Viewing: Only exterior viewing is possible (no entry into school buildings)
Parking: Limited spaces available nearby

The wooden school building standing on a hill overlooking the sea is exactly as shown in the anime. The exterior of the building, schoolyard, and the sea view from the school can all give you a sense of the work’s worldview. However, it is currently closed and entry into the school building is not permitted. When taking photos from outside the grounds, be considerate of local residents’ lives and view quietly.

Holy Sites in the Shinshika Beach Area

Shinshika Beach

This is the model for the beautiful coastline that appears many times in the work. It is characterized by highly transparent water and white sandy beach, and has been selected as one of the “100 Best Shores of Japan.”

Location: Kumano City Shinshika Town, Mie Prefecture
Access: About 20 minutes by bus from Kumano City Station to “Shinshika Port” bus stop, then immediate arrival
Characteristics: Crowded with many tourists during the swimming season (July-August)

Sayamart Shinshika Store

A local shop believed to be the model for the convenience store where Miumi and others shopped in the work. In reality, it is a privately-owned shop that supports community life.

Notes: Since it is a business shop serving local residents, refrain from extended stays outside of shopping or in-store photography. Be considerate when photographing the exterior, as it may interfere with other customers and the store owner.

Holy Sites in Nigi Island and Omotomari Areas

Nigi Island Fishing Port Vicinity

One of the models for the seascape scenery. Characterized by a small fishing port and an intricate coastline.

Access: About 40 minutes by bus from Kumano City Station to “Nigi Island” bus stop
Highlights: Atmosphere of the fishing port, views from the breakwater

Onigajou Vicinity

The coastline around Onigajou, which is also registered as a World Heritage site, appears in the work. The contrast between rugged rocks and blue sea is striking.

Location: Kumano City Kamoto Town, Mie Prefecture
Access: About 5 minutes by car from Kumano City Station, or about 20 minutes on foot
Admission: Free (separate fee for center facility use)

Holy Sites in Kihoku Town Kiinagashima Area

Akahane Stepping Stone Crossing

A model for the level crossing that appears in an impressive scene in the work.

Location: Kihoku Town Kiinagashima Ward, Kitamuro District, Mie Prefecture
Access: About 10 minutes on foot from JR Kiinagashima Station
Note: Since it is a working level crossing, exercise sufficient safety when taking photos

Kiryuu Shipbuilding

The scenery of a shipyard appears in the work. Since it is an operating facility, limit your viewing to outside the grounds.

Complete Access Guide

Access by Public Transportation

From Nagoya Area

Limited Express Nanki (Recommended Route)

Limited Express “Nanki” from Nagoya Station to Kumano City Station takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes
Fare: Approximately 6,000 yen per person (unreserved seat)
Number of trains: 3-4 per day

Conventional Line (If You Have Time)

Nagoya Station → Kameyama Station → Taki Station → Kumano City Station
Travel time: Approximately 5-6 hours
Fare: Approximately 3,000 yen per person

From Osaka/Kansai Area

Kintetsu Limited Express from Osaka-Namba Station to Matsusaka Station takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes
Transfer to JR Kisei Main Line at Matsusaka Station, approximately 2 hours to Kumano City Station
Total travel time: Approximately 4 hours
Fare: Approximately 5,000 yen per person

Secondary Transportation Within Kumano City

Bus Lines

The Kumano City self-operated bus “Oboro Bus” connects various districts in the city.

Operation: Weekdays only (closed on weekends and holidays)
Fare: 200-500 yen per section approximately
Number of buses: Very few, several per day
Schedule: Check Kumano City Tourism Association official website

Note: Since the number of buses is extremely limited, detailed planning is essential for holy site pilgrimage using only public transportation. Missing a bus can result in waiting several hours.

Access by Car (Recommended)

Since holy sites are scattered over a wide area, visiting by rental car or private vehicle is the most efficient method.

From Nagoya Area

Tomei Expressway → Ise Expressway → Kisei Expressway → National Route 42
Travel time: Approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes
Distance: Approximately 200km

From Osaka Area

Hanwa Expressway → Kisei Expressway → National Route 42
Travel time: Approximately 3 hours
Distance: Approximately 180km

Rental Car Information

Around Kumano City Station: Limited rental car shops (advance reservation essential)
Matsusaka Station/Ise City Station: Multiple rental car companies available (alternative option to rent and travel from here)
Estimated cost: Approximately 5,000-8,000 yen per day

Pilgrimage by Bicycle

Some fans conduct pilgrimages by bicycle (including rental bicycles), but the following points require attention:

Long distances between holy sites (just 10km between Hatasu and Shinshika)
National Route 42 along the coast has high traffic volume and no sidewalks in some sections
Steep uphill and downhill sections exist
Recommended for those with ample physical stamina and time

Efficient Holy Site Pilgrimage Model Routes

Day Trip by Car Plan (Recommended)

Total Time Required: Approximately 6-7 hours

“`
8:00 Depart from Kumano City Station (rental car)
8:15 Onigajou (30 minutes)
9:00 Shinshika Beach and Sayamart Shinshika Store (1 hour)
10:30 Former Hatasu Elementary School (1 hour)
12:00 Lunch (around Kumano City Station or michi-no-eki rest stop)
13:30 Nigi Island Fishing Port Vicinity (1 hour)
15:00 Kihoku Town area – Akahane Stepping Stone Crossing, Kiryuu Shipbuilding (1 hour)
16:30 Return to Kumano City Station
“`

This route allows you to efficiently visit major spots. Adjust photography and sightseeing time according to your preferences.

2-Day 1-Night Leisurely Plan

Day 1
“`
Morning: Arrival in Kumano City, information gathering at tourism information center
Afternoon: Pilgrimage centered on Shinshika Beach area and former Hatasu Elementary School
Evening: Check-in at accommodation near Kumano City or Shinshika Beach
Night: Enjoy local seafood cuisine
“`

Day 2
“`
Morning: Holy site pilgrimage in Nigi Island and Omotomari areas
Afternoon: Kihoku Town area, or tourist spots such as Onigajou
Evening: Head back
“`

By staying overnight, you can enjoy the beautiful seascapes at dawn and dusk, and immerse yourself more deeply in the work’s worldview.

Public Transportation Plan (Advanced Users)

Preconditions: Possible on weekdays only, advance confirmation of bus schedule required

“`
8:00 Kumano City Station
8:30 Bus to Shinshika Port (approximately 20 minutes)
9:00-11:00 Explore Shinshika Beach area
11:30 Bus to Hatasu-guchi (approximately 10 minutes)
12:00-14:00 View former Hatasu Elementary School (including walking)
14:30 Bus back to Kumano City Station
“`

Note: With limited bus numbers, visiting Nigi Island and Kihoku Town using only public transportation is extremely difficult. Have extra time and consider using taxis.

Kumano City Tourism Association Official Collaboration Projects

Latest Collaboration Information for 2025

The Kumano City Tourism Association continues to implement official collaborations with ‘Nagi no Asukara.’ During the 10th anniversary event in 2024, more than 1,500 fans visited, creating a major buzz.

Collaboration Initiatives for 2025 (Starting January 25, 2025)

Original merchandise sales
Holy site pilgrimage map distribution (Kumano City Tourism Information Center)
Collaboration wrapped bus operation (limited period)
Panel and life-size standee displays
Digital stamp rally

For details, check the latest information on the Kumano City Tourism Association official website (https://www.kumano-kankou.info/).

Utilization of Kumano City Station and Tourism Information Center

Kumano City Tourism Information Center

Location: Inside Kumano City Station
Business hours: 9:00-17:00 (varies by season)
Services:
Distribution of holy site pilgrimage maps
Sales of collaboration merchandise
Provision of tourism information
Confirmation of bus schedules

I strongly recommend gathering information here as the starting point for your holy site pilgrimage.

Kumano City Station Front Specialty Store “Umihikari”

Business hours: 9:00-18:00 approximately
Products: Local specialties, souvenirs, some collaboration merchandise

You can purchase local specialty products and use it as a rest area.

Notes and Etiquette for Holy Site Pilgrimage

Basic Etiquette

Do not enter private property or restricted areas

Former Hatasu Elementary School – exterior viewing only
Never enter local residents’ property

Be mindful of noise

Refrain from loud conversation in residential areas
Avoid visiting early morning or late night

Take all garbage with you

There are almost no trash cans around holy sites
Always take garbage with you to protect the natural environment

Consider impact when photographing

Be careful not to photograph local residents
Obtain permission before photographing inside operating shops
Safety comes first when photographing on roads or level crossings

Consideration for the Community

The holy sites of Kumano City are places where local people actually live. Shops like Sayamart Shinshika Store are not tourist facilities but essential infrastructure for community life. When visiting:

If possible, purchase something to contribute to the local economy
Be considerate not to interfere with business
Use polite language when interacting with local residents

Appropriate behavior by fans will support the continuation of holy site pilgrimage culture in the future.

Safety Precautions

Caution at the coast

The water’s edge is slippery
Be careful of high waves during bad weather
Take heat stroke countermeasures thoroughly in summer

Roads and traffic

National Route 42 has heavy traffic and no sidewalks in some sections
Avoid parking on roadsides as it inconveniences following vehicles
Exercise care when driving on winding mountain roads

Mobile phone coverage

In some areas, signal is weak or non-existent
Download maps in advance
Ensure means of emergency contact

Kumano Sightseeing That Combines Well with Holy Site Pilgrimage

World Heritage Site: Kumano Kodo

When visiting Kumano City, you’ll want to experience the World Heritage Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes. If combining with holy site pilgrimage:

Matsumoto Pass: Relatively close to Kumano City Station, approximately 2 hours round trip
Onigajou: Scenic spot that’s also included in the holy site pilgrimage route

Hot Springs

Iruka Onsen Hotel Shoryuuso: Hot spring inn in Kumano City
Yunouchi Onsen: Day-use bathing available

Perfect for soothing tired bodies after holy site pilgrimage.

Gourmet

Kumano Specialties

Sanma Sushi: Regional cuisine of the Kumano area
Meharie Sushi: Onigiri wrapped in takana leaves
Fresh Seafood: Dishes using local fish and seafood

Available at Kumano City Station vicinity and michi-no-eki “Kumano – Itaya Kurobei no Sato.”

Accommodation Information

Main Accommodation Facilities in Kumano City

Hotels and Inns

Kumano Club: Luxury resort facility
Iruka Onsen Hotel Shoryuuso: Hot spring enjoyment available
Several business hotels: Around Kumano City Station

Minshuku and Guesthouses

Vicinity of Shinshika Beach: Multiple minshuku for swimming tourists
Relatively reasonable price range

Notes

Limited number of accommodation facilities, early reservations essential for weekends and summer
Expect crowds during collaboration event periods
Without a car, accommodations near Kumano City Station are more convenient

Accommodation in Surrounding Cities

If accommodations in Kumano City are fully booked:

Owase City: North of Kumano City, approximately 30 minutes by car
Kiinagashima: Central area of Kihoku Town, part of some holy sites
Shingu City: South of Kumano City, Wakayama Prefecture side

Recommended Visiting Seasons

Spring (March-May)

Climate: Warm and pleasant
Advantages: Relatively few tourists, beautiful fresh greenery
Disadvantages: Rainy season in some periods

Summer (June-August)

Climate: Hot and humid
Advantages: Can also enjoy swimming, experience summer scenes from the work
Disadvantages: Many tourists, accommodations crowded, heat stroke risk

Autumn (September-November)

Climate: Cool and comfortable
Advantages: Most comfortable season, sea relatively calm
Disadvantages: Overlaps with typhoon season

Most Recommended: Late September to November offers the best climate

Winter (December-February)

Climate: Mild but strong winds on some days
Advantages: Fewer tourists, cheaper accommodations, experience the harshness of winter sea
Disadvantages: Shorter daylight hours, some facilities closed

Packing Checklist

Essential Items

Smartphone (maps, camera, holy site comparison)
Mobile battery (high battery consumption in weak signal areas)
Drinking water (few vending machines)
Hat and sunscreen (summer)
Rain gear (folding umbrella)
Cash (many shops don’t accept cashless payment)

Useful Items

Anime screenshots (for holy site comparison)
Tripod or selfie stick
Towel (sweat wiping, beach exploration)
Change of clothes (summer)
Garbage bags
Insect repellent spray (summer)

When Using Public Transportation

Printed copy of bus schedule (backup for no signal areas)
Taxi company contact information memo
Flexible schedule with plenty of time

To Enjoy the Work More Deeply

Prior Preparation

Rewatching the work before your holy site pilgrimage will give you deeper emotional satisfaction:

Watch all 26 episodes: Particularly check scenes featuring holy sites
Review character relationships: Recall what happened at each location
Collect screenshots: Save holy site comparison images

How to Enjoy at Holy Sites

Photograph from the same angle: Compare anime and reality
Put yourself in characters’ shoes: Imagine what the character felt at that place
Align the time of day: Visit during the same time as scenes in the work
Match the season: If possible, visit during the same season as in the work

Fan Interaction

Information sharing on SNS (hashtags: #凪のあすから #凪あす聖地巡礼)
Interaction with other fans encountered on location
Conversation with local residents (convey your feelings about the work)

Conclusion: Making Your ‘Nagi no Asukara’ Holy Site Pilgrimage a Success

Kumano City, Mie Prefecture, the holy site of ‘Nagi no Asukara,’ is a wonderful place where you can experience the work’s beautiful worldview exactly as depicted. However, because holy sites are scattered over a wide area and public transportation is limited, meticulous prior planning is key to success.

Points for Success:

Secure transportation: Use a rental car if possible
Allow plenty of time: 1-2 nights recommended over day trip
Gather prior information: Check official Kumano City Tourism Association information
Follow etiquette: Remember to be considerate of local community
Visit with love for the work: Maintain pride as a fan in your actions

The beautiful sea of Kumano City and the warm welcome of local residents will surely create wonderful memories of your holy site pilgrimage. I hope you will deepen your love for the work while immersed in the world of ‘Nagi no Asukara,’ and also enjoy the nature and culture of Kumano.

Through holy site pilgrimage, deepen your love for the work while getting to know Kumano City, a wonderful area. And by following proper etiquette, each of us can contribute to ensuring that this remains a holy site where many fans can visit with confidence in the future.