【Your Color】 Goto City, Nagasaki Prefecture
“Your Color,” the latest film by director Naoko Yamada released on August 30, 2024, is a moving work set against the beautiful landscapes of Nagasaki Prefecture. With the diverse scenery of Nagasaki Prefecture serving as the backdrop for the coming-of-age story depicted by Director Yamada, who has created masterpieces such as “K-On! the Movie” and “A Silent Voice,” the film’s world view is formed. This article provides detailed explanations of sacred sites featured in the film and offers practical information for fans planning to visit.
Work Information for “Your Color” and Its Connection to Nagasaki Prefecture
Outline of the Work
“Your Color” is a coming-of-age story that begins with the encounter between Tatsuko, a girl who can see emotions as colors, and Lui, a boy who loves music. The production committee includes the Nagasaki Prefectural Tourism Association, and from three years before the film’s release, they actively proposed filming locations and developed the project as an undertaking of both the public and private sectors working together.
Nagasaki Prefecture, which serves as the stage for the story, is depicted as a place with diverse faces, including unique terrain with many slopes, historic structures, and beautiful nature of remote islands. The remote island where Tatsuko’s mother lives, the school the main characters attend, the old church that becomes the band’s practice venue—many important scenes in the film are modeled after real locations within Nagasaki Prefecture.
Director Naoko Yamada’s Commitment to Background Art
The characteristic feature of Director Naoko Yamada’s works lies in delicate character design and beautiful background depiction. In “Your Color” as well, the slopes, stone-paved streets, churches, and seascapes of Nagasaki are depicted with meticulous care, and visiting the actual locations allows scenes from the film to vividly come back to life. Even in the approximately 1 minute 30 second preview video, many impressive landscapes are used, including the slopes within Nagasaki City and the coastline of the Goto Islands.
The production committee cooperated with Nagasaki Prefecture and conducted thorough research from the location hunting stage. With the cooperation of local residents, they selected locations optimal for the story. Through this process, the Nagasaki Prefectural Tourism Association went beyond simply supporting filming and became deeply involved in constructing the work’s world view.
Major Sacred Sites within Nagasaki City
Glover Garden Area
Glover Garden is one of the most impressively featured locations in the film. The collection of Western-style buildings, including the nationally designated important cultural property of the former Glover Residence, and the view of Nagasaki Port looking down from there are used multiple times as the background for important scenes in the film.
Access Information
- Address: 8-1 Minamiyamate-cho, Nagasaki City
- Nearest tram stop: 7 minutes on foot from Oura Tenshodo-shita tram stop, 10 minutes on foot from Ishibashi tram stop
- Opening hours: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM (varies seasonally)
- Admission: 620 yen for adults
Glover Street, which leads to Glover Garden, also appears in the film. The souvenir shops lined along the stone-paved slope and retro-atmosphere buildings embody the everyday scenery of Nagasaki, which serves as the setting for the story. Particularly at dusk, the landscape overlaps with the impressive scenes in the film, and it has become a popular photography spot for many fans.
Dondon Slope and Holland Slope
The distinctive slopes within Nagasaki City appear multiple times as the route Tatsuko travels daily. Dondon Slope is a steep stone stairway leading to Kwassui Women’s University and is depicted as the commute route to the main characters’ school.
Holland Slope is a stone-paved slope in the Higashiyamate district, characterized by Western-style architecture from the Meiji period lining the street. In the film, it is used in important scenes, such as when Tatsuko worries about her ability to see emotions as colors.
Points for Visiting
- Multiple slopes can be accessed within walking distance from Ishibashi tram stop
- Sturdy walking shoes are recommended due to steep grades
- Mindful behavior is needed as you pass through residential areas
Higashiyamate No. 13 Building
The Higashiyamate No. 13 Building is a Western-style structure built in the middle of the Meiji period and is now open to the public as a tourist facility. In the film, it appears as the background for scenes where band members gather and where Tatsuko and Lui talk together.
The building’s interior can be viewed free of charge, and the second floor offers a panoramic view of Nagasaki Port. It is also a sacred site for the anime “A World That Paints Its Colors Tomorrow,” making it an important base in Nagasaki’s anime pilgrimage route.
Nagasaki Waterfront Forest Park
An urban park facing Nagasaki Port, characterized by an open lawn plaza and seascapes. In the film, it is used in scenes where the main characters talk about music and in impressive shots where the color of emotions is reflected on the sea.
With easy access—5 minutes on foot from Shinchi-Chinatown tram stop—it is also an ideal rest spot. The walking trail that continues from the area around Oranda Bridge to the park allows you to leisurely stroll while experiencing the film’s world view.
Nabeboshi Mountain Park Observation Deck
An observation spot that overlooks the entire Nagasaki City and is also known as a famous night-view location. In the film, it appears in a scene where Tatsuko, looking down at the city of Nagasaki, confronts her own emotions.
Access to the observation deck is possible without climbing the slopes by using Glover Sky Road. The atmosphere from dusk through night offers a special feeling where you can re-experience scenes from the film.
Sacred Sites in the Goto Islands
Oni-dake (Goto City)
Oni-dake, a symbol of Goto City, is a volcano with a height of 315 meters, characterized by gentle grassy slopes. In the film, it appears as the iconic landscape of the remote island where Tatsuko’s mother lives and is used in scenes that serve as important turning points in the story.
Access Information
- Approximately 20 minutes by car from Fukue Airport
- Approximately 15 minutes by car from Fukue Port
- Parking available; approximately 15 minutes on foot to the observation point
The Oni-dake observation point offers a 360-degree panoramic view, and on clear days, you can see all the way to the horizon of the East China Sea. The vast sky and grassy landscape depicted in the film become all the more real when you actually visit.
Church Group on Fukue Island
Numerous churches are scattered throughout the Goto Islands, and in the film, an old church appears as the band’s practice venue. Historic churches such as Dosaki Church and Mizunouira Church become important stages in the story.
Precautions When Visiting
- Understand that churches are places of worship and act with respect
- Do not take photographs in areas where photography is prohibited
- Avoid loud conversations and excessive noise
- Refrain from visiting during times of mass or ceremonies
- Act with consideration for the lives of community residents
Hamaguri Beach (Shinkami-Goto Town)
Hamaguri Beach in Shinkami-Goto Town is a beautiful beach with highly transparent water and white sand. In the film, it becomes the stage for an important scene where Tatsuko and Lui talk by the sea, with impressive footage of the color of emotions melting into the sea being filmed.
Access Information
- Approximately 30 minutes by car from Arikawa Port
- Open as a swimming beach during summer (mid-July to late August)
- Parking, restrooms, and shower facilities available
The calm sea with its gentle slope is depicted in the film as a place of peace. The changing colors of the sea at dusk offer an excellent opportunity to experience the work’s theme of “color.”
Sacred Sites in Sasebo City
Ninety-Nine Islands Tourist Park (Ninety-Nine Islands Pearl Sea Resort)
The Ninety-Nine Islands, a representative tourist spot in Sasebo City, are characterized by beautiful multi-island seascapes created by 208 islands. In the film, scenes of ships connecting remote islands and the landscape of sea and islands are impressively used.
Ways to Enjoy
- Tour the islands on the Ninety-Nine Islands sightseeing boat (approximately 50 minutes)
- Overlook the multi-island seascape from the observation deck
- Observe marine life at the aquarium “Umikira”
The landscape of the Ninety-Nine Islands becomes a key element in forming the image of “remote islands” in the story. Taking the sightseeing boat allows you to experience traveling between the islands depicted in the film.
Ishidake Observation Deck
An scenic viewing spot that overlooks the Ninety-Nine Islands; it is highly likely this location was used in the film’s poster and visuals. The panorama created by 208 islands symbolizes the diverse natural landscape of Nagasaki Prefecture.
Efficient Sacred Site Pilgrimage Model Courses
Nagasaki City Course in One Day
Morning (9:00 AM to 12:00 PM)
- Start at Ishibashi tram stop
- Holland Slope and Higashiyamate No. 13 Building (60 minutes)
- Dondon Slope (30 minutes)
- Glover Garden (90 minutes)
Afternoon (1:00 PM to 5:00 PM)
- Lunch on Glover Street (60 minutes)
- Nagasaki Waterfront Forest Park (45 minutes)
- Explore Shinchi-Chinatown (45 minutes)
- View evening scenery from Nabeboshi Mountain Observation Deck (60 minutes)
The main spots in Nagasaki City can be efficiently covered in one day using the streetcar and Glover Sky Road. Purchasing a one-day pass (600 yen) is recommended.
Nagasaki Prefecture-Wide Course Over 2 Nights and 3 Days
Day 1: Nagasaki City
Follow the one-day course outlined above to visit sacred sites in the city
Day 2: Goto Islands (Fukue Island)
- Travel by jet foil from Nagasaki Port to Fukue Port (approximately 1 hour 25 minutes)
- Use rental car to visit Oni-dake, Dosaki Church, and the Fukue Island coastline
- Overnight on Fukue Island
Day 3: Sasebo City
- Travel from Fukue Port to Sasebo via Nagasaki Port
- Visit Ninety-Nine Islands Tourist Park and Ishidake Observation Deck
- Lunch with Sasebo burgers, then head to Nagasaki Airport
Comprehensive Pilgrimage Course Including Remote Islands (3 Nights and 4 Days)
Island travel requires time, so a flexible schedule is necessary. When visiting Hamaguri Beach in Shinkami-Goto Town, consider either traveling by ship from Fukue Island or traveling directly from Nagasaki Port to Arikawa Port.
Practical Advice for Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Using Location Maps
The Nagasaki Prefectural Tourism Association distributes location maps to commemorate the film’s first anniversary. They can be obtained at major tourist information offices, Nagasaki Station, and the airport. The maps are also available for download from the official website, allowing you to check them on your smartphone while visiting.
Special limited-time campaigns such as scene postcard giveaways are also running, so check the Nagasaki Prefectural Tourism Association’s official website for the latest information before your visit.
Photography Manners and Considerations
In sacred site pilgrimages, consideration for community residents is most important. Please pay attention to the following points:
When Visiting Churches
- Understand that they are places of worship and act respectfully
- Never photograph in areas where photography is prohibited
- Avoid loud conversations and unnecessary noise
- Refrain from visiting during times of mass or other ceremonies
- Act with consideration for the lives of community residents
Behavior in Residential Areas
- Do not trespass on private property
- Avoid visiting early in the morning or at night
- Be mindful not to obstruct traffic with long stops on roads
- Always take your trash with you
On Slopes and Narrow Alleys
- Give priority to local residents passing through
- Do not spread out while walking
- Be mindful of vehicle traffic
Recommended Visiting Seasons
Spring (March to May)
- Mild climate and easy to walk
- Cherry blossom season (late March to early April) offers beautiful scenery
- Be aware of crowds during Golden Week
Summer (June to August)
- Can enjoy swimming at Hamaguri Beach
- Coincides with the film’s release period; special events may be held
- High temperatures require heat stroke prevention measures
- Ships to remote islands may be suspended due to typhoon season
Autumn (September to November)
- Most stable climate; ideal for pilgrimages
- Local festivals such as Nagasaki Kunchi are held
- Autumn foliage can be enjoyed until early December at some locations
Winter (December to February)
- Fewer tourists; allows for leisurely visits
- Night views are especially beautiful
- Strong winds on the Goto Islands; ships frequently suspended
- Warm clothing is necessary
Transportation and Travel Tips
Within Nagasaki City
- Streetcar: A convenient transportation connecting major sites in the city
- One-day pass (600 yen) for unlimited rides
- Glover Sky Road: A cable-stayed elevator allowing easy traversal of slopes (free)
Access to the Goto Islands
- Airplane: Approximately 30 minutes from Fukuoka Airport to Fukue Airport
- Jet foil: Approximately 1 hour 25 minutes from Nagasaki Port to Fukue Port
- Ferry: Approximately 3 hours 10 minutes from Nagasaki Port to Fukue Port (vehicle transport available)
- Travel within the islands is convenient by rental car (advance reservations recommended)
Access to Sasebo City
- JR Train: Approximately 1 hour 40 minutes from Nagasaki Station to Sasebo Station on the express train
- Bus: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes by highway bus from Nagasaki Airport to Sasebo
- Travel around the Ninety-Nine Islands area is convenient by rental car or taxi
Nagasaki Cuisine to Enjoy Alongside Sacred Site Pilgrimages
Recommended Cuisine in Nagasaki City
Nagasaki Champon and Saradon
Many old-fashioned Chinese restaurants are located around Glover Garden, allowing you to enjoy authentic flavors between sacred site visits. Historic establishments such as Shiokn Bridge Ramen and Shikaitei are scattered throughout the city.
Castella Cake
Famous shops such as Bunmeido and Fukusaya are located throughout the city and make excellent souvenirs. Many shops around Glover Street offer tastings, and you can enjoy comparisons.
Turkish Rice
A Western-style dish originating in Nagasaki with pilaf, spaghetti, and breaded pork cutlet all served on one plate—a filling meal. It is served at cafes around Shinchi-Chinatown.
Recommended Cuisine in the Goto Islands
Goto Udon
Goto udon is characterized by thin noodles with a strong bite and is a local specialty. The traditional way to eat it is with a broth made from ago (flying fish) stock.
Fresh Seafood
Fish and shellfish caught in waters near the Goto Islands are supremely fresh. Particularly excellent are Japanese horse mackerel, mackerel, and squid. They can be enjoyed at dining establishments near Fukue Port.
Kankoromochi
A traditional Goto confection made with sweet potato, characterized by simple sweetness. It is popular as a souvenir.
Recommended Cuisine in Sasebo
Sasebo Burger
After enjoying the sights of the Ninety-Nine Islands, savor an authentic Sasebo burger. Famous establishments such as Log Kit, Big Man, and Hikari are scattered throughout the city.
Lemon Steak
Thin-sliced beef grilled on an iron plate and eaten with a lemon-based sauce—a specialty dish of Sasebo.
How to Choose Accommodations
Within Nagasaki City
As a base for sacred site pilgrimages, hotels near streetcar stations are convenient. Hotels are concentrated around Nagasaki Station, the Shiokn Bridge and Hamachi area, and the Inasayama area.
Recommended Areas
- Around Nagasaki Station: Good access; many new hotels
- Shiokn Bridge and Hamachi area: Close to entertainment district; abundant dining options
- Inasayama area: High-end hotels offering night-view experiences
Goto Islands
Fukue Island has various types of accommodations including private inns, business hotels, and resort hotels. Private inns where you can enjoy fresh seafood unique to remote islands are recommended.
Notes on Reservations
- Early reservations are essential during busy seasons (summer, holidays)
- Private inn plans typically include dinner and breakfast
- Arrange car rentals simultaneously with accommodation reservations
Sasebo City
Accommodations are concentrated around Sasebo Station. The Ninety-Nine Islands area also features resort hotels overlooking the sea, allowing for a leisurely stay.
“Your Color” Related Events and Campaign Information
First Anniversary Commemorative Initiatives
Special events commemorating the film’s first anniversary are being held throughout Nagasaki Prefecture. These include distribution of location maps, giveaways of scene postcards, and opening of collaboration cafes—various limited-time initiatives are being implemented.
The latest information can be found on the Nagasaki Prefectural Tourism Association’s official website “Nagasaki Travel Net.” Details about special event schedules, participation methods, and distribution locations are updated regularly.
Collaboration Projects
Local restaurants and souvenir shops sometimes offer limited-edition menus and goods in collaboration with the film. They are being promoted at key tourist bases such as the Glover Garden area, Nagasaki Station, and Fukue Port.
Photo Spots
Photo spots that recreate scenes from the film may be set up at major sacred sites. Designed as photography spots for SNS sharing, they are ideal for taking commemorative photos of your visit.
Nagasaki Prefecture as an Anime Sacred Site
Synergy with “A World That Paints Its Colors Tomorrow”
Before “Your Color,” Nagasaki Prefecture was already the setting for the P.A.WORKS anime “A World That Paints Its Colors Tomorrow,” establishing it as an anime sacred site. Many locations appear in both works, allowing fans to enjoy both works’ world views simultaneously.
At spots featured in both works such as Ishibashi tram stop, Nabeboshi Mountain, and Higashiyamate No. 13 Building, there is the added enjoyment of recalling scenes from both works.
“88 Japanese Anime Sacred Sites Worth Visiting”
Nagasaki Prefecture has been selected as part of the “88 Japanese Anime Sacred Sites Worth Visiting” chosen by the Anime Tourism Association. With the release of “Your Color,” it has garnered even more attention, and visits from domestic and international fans have increased.
Nagasaki Prefecture’s Sacred Site Pilgrimage Promotion Efforts
Nagasaki Prefecture actively works to attract anime productions, implementing comprehensive support systems including participation in production committees, support for location hunting, and post-release promotional cooperation.
The long-term effort of proposing filming locations three years before release has drawn attention as a pioneering example of content tourism promotion by local governments. As a result, a high level of fusion between the work’s world view and the actual appeal of the region has been realized, providing fans with a satisfying sacred site pilgrimage experience.
Experiencing “Your Color’s” World View Through Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Perceiving “Color” in Nagasaki’s Landscape
The film’s theme of “color” is deeply connected to Nagasaki Prefecture’s diverse landscape. The blue sea and sky, green mountains, gray of stone pavements, white of churches, and orange of sunset—the colors woven by Nagasaki’s nature and architecture overlap with the colors of emotions that Tatsuko sees.
By actually visiting the sacred sites, you can experience the colored world depicted in the film with all your senses. The changing colors of the landscape over time and seasons help provide deeper understanding of the story’s theme.
Harmony of Music and Landscape
Music and band activities, important elements of the story, are depicted in harmony with Nagasaki’s landscape. Each location—the serene space of a church, the openness of a beach, the everyday nature of a slope—has an atmosphere that connects with the characters’ music and emotions.
When visiting sacred sites, listening to the film’s soundtrack while exploring deepens the sense of immersion. Particularly at beaches or observation decks where music was featured in important film scenes, you can re-experience the work’s world view.
The Significance of Remote Islands
In the story, the remote island where Tatsuko’s mother lives is depicted as an important place where the protagonist confronts her past. The quiet sea, vast sky, and simple village landscape of the Goto Islands evoke a different passage of time compared to urban Nagasaki City.
Actually visiting a remote island allows you to truly appreciate the significant role islands play in the story. The travel time on ships connecting the mainland and remote islands becomes a precious moment experiencing the story’s setting.
Conclusion: Deepened Understanding Through Sacred Site Pilgrimage
“Your Color’s” sacred site pilgrimage holds value beyond ordinary tourism. The Nagasaki Prefecture landscapes carefully selected by Director Naoko Yamada are important elements forming the story’s world view, and actually visiting them deepens your understanding of the work.
Each location—the slopes and churches of Nagasaki City, the sea and sky of the Goto Islands, and the multi-island seascape of Sasebo—possesses unique appeal connected to the characters’ emotions and the story’s development. The “sacred sites” created through cooperation between the production committee and Nagasaki Prefecture become special places where fans can enter the world of the work.
When visiting, remember to act considerately toward community residents and maintain respectful pilgrimage conduct. Utilize the location maps and event information provided by the Nagasaki Prefectural Tourism Association for an efficient and fulfilling sacred site pilgrimage experience.
With the film’s themes of “color” and “music” in your heart, find your own unique “Your Color” experience within Nagasaki’s beautiful landscapes.
