【A Colorful World Henceforth】 Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture
“A Colorful World Henceforth,” an original anime produced by P.A.WORKS that aired in fall 2018. Set in a slightly mysterious world where magic still exists, the story follows Tsukishiro Hitomi, a girl who has lost her color vision, as she time-slips to Nagasaki sixty years in the past and grows through encounters with her photography club friends.
The greatest appeal of this work is how beautifully the landscapes of Nagasaki are depicted down to the smallest details. The production staff conducted location scouting throughout Nagasaki City over several days, faithfully recreating real locations. This article comprehensively covers all spots featured in the anime, from efficient pilgrimage model courses to photography tips, thoroughly explaining the information necessary for sacred site pilgrimages.
“A Colorful World Henceforth” Explained
“A Colorful World Henceforth” is a coming-of-age fantasy anime set in Nagasaki. The protagonist, Tsukishiro Hitomi, is a second-year high school student who lost the ability to see colors in her childhood. Through magic cast by her grandmother, Tsukishiro Kohaku, she time-slips from 2078 to 2018 in Nagasaki.
In Nagasaki sixty years ago, she meets Aoi Yuisho, Kawai Kurumi, Yamabuki Shota who belong to the photography club, and the young version of Kohaku. Upon touching Yuisho’s paintings, Hitomi is able to perceive “color” for the first time. Through interaction with her photography club friends, Hitomi gradually opens her heart and recovers the lost colors.
Nagasaki City, the setting of the story, is a hilly town full of exotic atmosphere. Real tourist attractions such as Glover Garden, Oranda-zaka, and Nagasaki Waterfront Forest Park appear throughout, creating a mysterious world where small magic remains in daily life.
Preparation and Basic Information for Sacred Site Pilgrimage
How to Get There
The main ways to access Nagasaki City are as follows:
Airplane
- Nagasaki Airport to Nagasaki Station: Approximately 45 minutes by limousine bus
- Direct flights available from major cities to Nagasaki Airport
JR
- Hakata Station to Nagasaki Station: Approximately 2 hours on the limited express “Kamome”
- When using the Shinkansen, transfer at Takeo Onsen Station
Highway Bus
- Direct service from Fukuoka, Kumamoto, Sasebo, and other cities
Transportation Within the City
The streetcar system in Nagasaki is extremely convenient for sacred site pilgrimages. At 130 yen per ride, a one-day pass (600 yen) allows unlimited boarding and alighting. Most major pilgrimage spots are within walking distance from streetcar stops.
Since there are many slopes, comfortable walking shoes are essential. For access to high areas like the Nabekan Mountain Observation Platform, slope-type elevators like Glover Sky Road can also be utilized.
Best Seasons for Pilgrimage
While autumn in Nagasaki is beautifully depicted in the anime, sacred site pilgrimages can be enjoyed year-round.
- Spring (March-May): Cherry blossom season, mild weather
- Autumn (September-November): Same season as the anime, autumn foliage also enjoyable
- Winter (December-February): The most beautiful period for night views
- Summer (June-August): Heat management necessary, but lush greenery is beautiful
Sacred Site Pilgrimage Model Courses
Waterfront Forest Park to Higashiyamate Course (Approximately 3 hours)
This course efficiently covers spots that frequently appear from the early to mid-parts of the anime.
Start: Shinchi Chinatown Streetcar Stop
Nagasaki Waterfront Forest Park
The place where Hitomi and Yuisho first meet, and where many important story scenes are filmed. A spacious area along the sea with the Megami Bridge visible across the water.
In the first episode, immediately after Hitomi arrives in 2018’s Nagasaki, this is where she walks hesitantly along the promenade. The scene of her sitting on a bench overlooking the sea appears again in episodes 3 and 8. The landscape at dusk particularly captures the anime’s atmosphere.
Photography Points: Seaside promenade, areas around benches, composition overlooking the Megami Bridge from the lawn
Oranda Bridge
A small bridge near the Shinchi Chinatown Streetcar Stop where Hitomi and Yuisho have a conversation. The bridge’s railings and surrounding buildings currently retain their original appearance, matching the anime depiction.
Higashiyamate Tsuitatenban House 13
A historic district with Meiji-era Western-style buildings. Tsuitatenban House 13 is a historical structure that can actually be visited. The anime carefully depicts its exterior as a symbol of Nagasaki’s exotic atmosphere.
The building’s interior can be viewed for free and features displays recreating life from that era. The slope in front of the building is also popular as a photography spot.
Opening Hours: 9:00-17:00
Closed: New Year’s period
Oranda-zaka
One of Nagasaki’s representative tourist spots, appearing many times in the anime. The stone-paved slope and Western-style buildings on both sides are beautiful, depicted as the route the characters take after school.
In episode 5, the scene where Hitomi and Kurumi walk while having a conversation; in episode 9, scenes where the photography club members gather—there are many impressive moments. The atmosphere is particularly close to the anime during the late afternoon when light filters through.
Goal: Ishibashi Streetcar Stop
Minami-yamate to Nabekan Mountain Course (Approximately 4 hours)
A course covering spots with many climactic anime scenes and emotionally moving locations.
Start: Ishibashi Streetcar Stop
Glover Sky Road
A 160-meter slope-type elevator that allows easy passage through the steep slopes of Minami-yamate. Episode 4 features Hitomi and Yuisho riding it, with the glass-enclosed car providing beautiful views of Nagasaki’s streetscape.
Free to use and regularly used by locals as part of daily life. The view from inside the elevator is also a photography point.
Operating Hours: 6:00-23:00
Glover Garden
Nagasaki’s representative tourist destination and an important stage in the anime. A vast garden featuring the Glover Mansion, designated as a national important cultural property, alongside Meiji-era Western-style buildings.
The scene in episode 10 where Hitomi and Yuisho visit alone is an unforgettable moment for fans. The panoramic view of Nagasaki Harbor visible from the garden’s observation platform, the stone-paved areas in front of the buildings, flower beds—all are faithfully recreated down to the finest details.
The view from the terrace in front of the Old Glover Residence is especially a must-see. You can photograph the same composition as the anime.
Operating Hours: 8:00-18:00 (varies by season)
Admission: 620 yen for adults
Oura Observation Park
A small park on a hilltop in Minami-yamate with a panoramic view of Nagasaki Harbor. In episode 7, Hitomi visits alone to face her feelings, which appear in this scene.
The composition of sitting on a bench gazing at the sea is one of the anime’s important motifs. With few tourists, you can quietly enjoy the scenery. The atmosphere is particularly beautiful at dusk, strongly evoking the anime’s mood.
Kinen-zaka
A stone-paved slope connecting Glover Garden toward the Nabekan Mountain Observation Platform. A quiet road through a residential area, appearing multiple times in scenes where Hitomi and others walk as part of their daily routine.
The views of Nagasaki’s cityscape and sea visible from points along the slope are beautiful, with photography-worthy spots throughout.
Nabekan Mountain Observation Platform
An observation platform overlooking Nagasaki’s night view and one of the anime’s most critical spots. It appears in episode 12 (final episode) as the place where Hitomi and Yuisho reunite at the climax.
From the observation platform at 169 meters elevation, you can see the Nagasaki Harbor, Inasa Mountain, and the city center in all directions. The night view is particularly striking—Nagasaki is renowned as the “1 million dollar night view,” and night scenes are impressively depicted in the anime, making this a highlight of the pilgrimage.
The platform is accessible by bus from Ishibashi Streetcar Stop or on foot (approximately 30 minutes, quite steep).
Access: From Ishibashi bus stop, approximately 10 minutes by bus, then 5 minutes walk from the observation platform entrance
Goal: Ishibashi Streetcar Stop
Ishibashi to Izumo Neighborhood Park Course (Approximately 2.5 hours)
This course covers areas where photography club activities and daily scenes frequently appear.
Izumo Neighborhood Park
A frequently appearing location where photography club members gather for photo sessions and meet after school. Episode 6’s photography session scene is particularly memorable.
A quiet park in a residential area where the slide and benches remain in the same arrangement as the anime. It’s a daily-life park where local children play, but an important spot for pilgrims.
Nagasaki Minami High School Surroundings
The high school that serves as a model for the school with the magical science department where Hitomi and others study. The actual Nagasaki Minami High School is, of course, off-limits to unauthorized visitors, but the exterior and surrounding landscapes can be confirmed from the anime.
The school opens to the public during cultural festivals, providing rare opportunities to enter the campus. During normal times, photography should be limited to areas outside the property, being mindful not to disturb students or neighborhood residents.
Forest Witch Cafe
The “Forest Witch Cafe” run by Hitomi’s grandmother, Tsukishiro Kohaku, is an important base for the story. The actual model location is not definitively identified, but it’s believed multiple Nagasaki cafes inspired the design.
In the anime, it’s depicted as a single-family cafe surrounded by forest, with warm interior decor and Kohaku’s homemade sweets being memorable. The place where the magic sending Hitomi time-slipping from the present to the past is activated.
Scattered throughout Nagasaki are old house cafes and retro coffee shops with similar atmospheres, recommended as rest stops during pilgrimage.
Other Important Spots
Nagasaki Penguin Aquarium
The aquarium visited by photography club members for photography in episode 2. The actual Nagasaki Penguin Aquarium serves as the model, with the interior displays and penguins depicted faithfully.
The Penguin Beach scene is especially moving when actually visited. This rare Japanese facility allows close viewing of penguins swimming naturally in the sea.
Operating Hours: 9:00-17:00
Admission: 520 yen for adults
Access: Approximately 30 minutes by bus from Nagasaki Station
Io Island
An important setting in episode 11. Located approximately 30 minutes by boat from Nagasaki Harbor, it features beautiful coastlines and churches.
In the anime, Hitomi and Yuisho visit together, and it appears as a place where they have an important conversation. The island’s lighthouse surroundings are impressively depicted. Day trips are possible, and resort facilities are well-equipped.
Access: Approximately 19 minutes by high-speed boat from Nagasaki Harbor, or accessible by car via bridge
Shinchi Chinatown
One of Japan’s three major Chinatowns, featured in episode 4 when the photography club members visit. The colorful Chinese restaurants are depicted beautifully from Hitomi’s perspective as she begins recovering her color vision.
Perfect as a lunch or dinner break spot. You can enjoy Nagasaki specialties like champon and sara udon.
Eyeglass Bridge
Japan’s oldest arch stone bridge and a Nagasaki tourist attraction. It appears in the anime as background scenery, with Hitomi and others using it as a school route.
Named for how its shadow on the water resembles eyeglasses, searching for heart-shaped stones is another tourist enjoyment.
Complete Night View Spot Guide
In “A Colorful World Henceforth,” Nagasaki’s beautiful night views are depicted as an important story element.
Inasa Mountain Observation Platform
Counted among the world’s new three largest night views, representing Nagasaki. While direct appearance scenes are limited in the anime, it’s referenced in panoramic night view scenes.
From the 333-meter observation platform, you can see Nagasaki City Center in all 360 degrees. Accessible by ropeway, the time from dusk to night is particularly crowded.
Operating Hours: 9:00-22:00
Ropeway Fare: 1,250 yen round trip
Nabekan Mountain Observation Platform (Night View)
As previously mentioned, the final episode’s crucial scene setting. Closer to the city center than Inasa Mountain, offering more immersive night views.
The platform is open 24 hours, allowing free access at night. However, limited nighttime lighting makes carrying a flashlight recommended.
Glover Garden (Night Opening Hours)
During specific periods, night openings allow enjoying both illuminated Western buildings and Nagasaki’s night views simultaneously. The most fantastically anime-like atmosphere can be experienced here.
Photography Tips and Etiquette
Comparative Photography Points
The essence of sacred site pilgrimages involves comparing anime scenes with actual landscapes. Saving anime screenshots on smartphones or tablets allows efficient finding of the same angles on-location.
- Match the time of day: Visiting during the same time as the anime scene makes the lighting similar
- Consider the season: Since the anime is set in autumn, visiting September-November makes the landscape closer
- Camera height: Anime camera angles are often slightly below eye level
Black and White Photography Enjoyment
Some fans photograph certain shots in black and white to experience Hitomi’s perspective. Comparing both color and monochrome versions deepens appreciation of the anime’s worldview.
Pilgrimage Etiquette
- Don’t trespass on private property: Particular caution needed around schools
- Keep quiet in residential areas: Avoid loud conversation and visits during early morning or late night
- Follow traffic rules: Don’t get so absorbed in photography that you ignore traffic safety
- Always take your trash: Preserving the pilgrimage site’s beauty is key to continued visitation
Nagasaki Cuisine and Souvenirs
Cuisine to Enjoy During Pilgrimage
Champon and Saraundo
Nagasaki’s representative noodle dishes. Experience authentic flavors at Shinchi Chinatown or city restaurants.
Castella
Nagasaki’s signature confection. Numerous long-established shops like Bunmeido and Fukusaya.
Toruko Rice
Nagasaki-origin Western food with pilaf, spaghetti, and pork cutlet on one plate.
Milk Shake
In Nagasaki, served as a sherbet-like dessert, not a beverage.
Recommended Souvenirs
- “A Colorful World Henceforth” Related Goods: Available at select bookstores and information centers in Nagasaki
- Nagasaki Castella: A classic not to miss
- Yori-yori: Fried confection from Chinatown
- Nagasaki Champon (Souvenir Version): Enjoy Nagasaki’s taste at home
Accommodation and Access Information
Recommended Accommodation Areas
Around Nagasaki Station
Convenient transportation with diverse options from business hotels to luxury hotels. Easy access to streetcars and buses.
Around Shian Bridge and Doza
Close to entertainment districts with abundant dining. Walking distance to sightseeing spots.
Around Inasa Mountain
Recommended for night view enjoyment. Quiet environment for relaxing stays.
Convenient One-Day Passes
Streetcar One-Day Pass: 600 yen
Unlimited boarding on streetcars. Covers most major pilgrimage spots.
Nagasaki City Tourism One-Day Pass: 800 yen
In addition to streetcars, select bus routes are available.
Seasonal Highlights
Spring (March-May)
Cherry blossom season makes Glover Garden and Izumo Neighborhood Park especially beautiful. While not depicted in the anime, spring cherry blossoms against new greenery are charming.
Summer (June-August)
Events like the Nagasaki Pairon Championship (July) and Shoro Nagashi (August 15) occur. Heat management is essential, but you experience vibrant Nagasaki.
Autumn (September-November)
The same season as the anime, most suitable for pilgrimage. Nagasaki Kunchi (October 7-9) is Nagasaki’s largest festival, making this particularly lively. Autumn foliage is beautiful and ideal for photography.
Winter (December-February)
The most beautiful season for night views. Clear air makes views from Nabekan Mountain and Inasa Mountain particularly spectacular. The Nagasaki Lantern Festival (lunar new year period) beautifully illuminates Chinatown.
Conclusion: A Journey to Experience the Colorful World
A pilgrimage to “A Colorful World Henceforth” isn’t merely visiting an anime’s setting but also deeply experiencing Nagasaki’s charm. Just as Hitomi recovered her colors, each visitor can discover new colors in Nagasaki’s beautiful scenery.
Sloped streets, exotic atmosphere, beautiful night views, warm people—Nagasaki overflows with reasons it became the story’s stage. Using the spots and model courses introduced in this article, plan your unique pilgrimage journey.
Walking Nagasaki’s streets while recalling memorable anime scenes will surely leave vivid memories in your heart. Follow the roads Hitomi and Yuisho walked, visit the places the photography club members spent time, and embark on a special journey to experience the “colorful world.”
