[A Whisper of the Heart] Saitama Prefecture Chichibu City
What kind of work is “A Whisper of the Heart”?
“A Whisper of the Heart” (commonly known as “Kokosake”) is an animated film released in September 2015. It garnered attention as a work in which the “Super Peace Busters” trio—director Tatsuyuki Nagai, screenwriter Mari Okada, and character designer Masayoshi Tanaka—who became famous for “Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day” reunited once again.
The protagonist of the story is Jun Naruse, a high school girl who, due to childhood trauma, is afflicted with a “curse” that causes stomach pain whenever she speaks. As she works on a community exchange musical with her high school classmates Takumi Sakakami, Natsuki Nito, and Daiki Tasaki, she faces her inner wounds and grows through this youth story.
This work is set primarily in the Chichibu region of Saitama Prefecture, particularly Chichibu City and Yokoze Town, and features many real landscapes. Beautiful nature and nostalgic townscapes color the narrative’s world view, and the location has become a popular pilgrimage site that many fans visit.
In 2017, it was also adapted into a live-action film starring Kento Nakajima, with filming also taking place in the Chichibu region. Since the same locations were used in both the anime and live-action versions, the ways to enjoy pilgrimage to sacred sites have expanded.
The Charm of the Chichibu Region of Saitama Prefecture, the Setting of “A Whisper of the Heart”
The Chichibu region of Saitama Prefecture is an area with easy access from central Tokyo via express train in approximately 80 minutes, yet rich nature and historically preserved townscapes remain. Chichibu City and Yokoze Town are adjacent, with the sacred sites of “Kokosake” concentrated in these two municipalities.
The Chichibu region is the setting for all three works of the “Super Peace Busters Trilogy”—”Anohana,” “Kokosake,” and “The Person Who Knows the Blue Sky”—and is nationally famous as an anime sacred site. It was also selected in the 2024 edition of “88 Japanese Anime Sacred Sites Worth Visiting,” and Saitama Prefecture and local municipalities are actively promoting pilgrimage to sacred sites.
The charm of the Chichibu region lies in the beautiful mountain scenery featured in the work, historic temples and shrines, and a warm community spirit. Through pilgrimage to sacred sites, not only can you experience the narrative’s world view, but you can also enjoy the culture and nature of Chichibu, which is a major attraction.
Complete Guide to “A Whisper of the Heart” Sacred Site Pilgrimage Spots
[Yokoze Town Area] Major Sacred Sites
Daiji Temple (Daiji-ji)
Address: 5151 Yokoze, Yokoze Town, Chichibu County, Saitama Prefecture
Daiji Temple is the most important sacred site for “Kokosake” pilgrims. It appears in many important scenes of the narrative as the place where Jun first confessed to Takumi about the curse she received from the “Egg Fairy.”
Daiji Temple is a Rinzai Zen Buddhist temple founded in 1492 with a long history. The stone steps, main hall, and bell tower that appear in the work actually exist within the temple grounds, and you can take photographs from the same angles as shown in the anime.
What is particularly impressive is the stone steps where Jun and Takumi sat and talked. This location has become a popular photography spot visited by many fans. The temple grounds have a quiet and solemn atmosphere, allowing you to experience the work’s world view while taking your time to explore.
When visiting, be mindful of temple etiquette and view the site quietly. At Daiji Temple, “Kokosake”-related merchandise and prayer plaques are also sold, allowing you to acquire mementos of your sacred site pilgrimage.
Yokoze Station and Surrounding Area
Address: Yokoze, Yokoze Town, Chichibu County, Saitama Prefecture
Yokoze Station on the Seibu Chichibu Line is a model of the station used by the characters for commuting in the work. The station building, the front plaza, and the surrounding residential areas appear in the narrative.
Yokoze Station is an ideal base for sacred site pilgrimage. Within walking distance from the station are Daiji Temple and various other spots mentioned later, allowing for efficient pilgrimage. There is also a tourist information center at the station where you can obtain pilgrimage maps and information.
The scenery around the station retains the atmosphere from the work, and you can actually follow the paths the characters walked. Visiting particularly during morning or evening commute times will allow you to feel the work’s world view more strongly.
Yokoze Town Yokoze Junior High School Area
One of the locations that served as a model for the high school appearing in the work. While it is actually a junior high school, the exterior of the school building and surrounding scenery appear in the narrative.
Since it is a school facility, entry into the grounds is not permitted, but you can view the exterior from surrounding roads. When photographing, it is necessary to be sufficiently considerate of student privacy and the school’s operations.
Hitsujiyama Park
Address: 6360 Omiya, Chichibu City, Saitama Prefecture
Hitsujiyama Park is a representative park of Chichibu City, famous for its beautiful blooming moss pink in spring. In the work, it appears in scenes such as when Jun and her friends prepare for the community exchange event musical.
Within the park is a high point called “the Hill with a View,” from which you can overlook the Chichibu cityscape. This vista also served as a model for scenery in the work and is a standard sacred site pilgrimage spot.
During the moss pink blooming season from mid-April to early May, the park is crowded with many tourists. It is recommended to enjoy sacred site pilgrimage in combination with seasonal flowers.
[Chichibu City Area] Important Sacred Sites
Chichibu Muse Park
Address: 1377 Tamura, Chichibu City, Saitama Prefecture
Chichibu Muse Park is considered a model for “Shiroyama” (Castle Mountain) near the high school that Jun and her friends attend in the work. This vast park features an observation deck offering panoramic views of the Chichibu Basin.
The model for the “castle” appearing in important scenes of the work is believed to be this observation deck. While it is not actually a castle, the landscape viewed from the high point overlaps with the work’s atmosphere.
Within the park there is also a concert hall, deeply related to the work’s theme of “music.” You can traverse the spacious grounds to feel the work’s world view.
Chichibu Shrine
Address: 1-3 Babamachi, Chichibu City, Saitama Prefecture
Chichibu Shrine is known as the chief shrine of the Chichibu region with a long history. While there are few direct appearance scenes in the work, it was used as a background when depicting Chichibu’s townscape.
The Chichibu Night Festival held in December is one of Japan’s three greatest float festivals and is registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. It is a site you will want to visit to learn about the culture of Chichibu, the setting of the work.
Chichibu Bridge
Address: Chichibu City (a bridge spanning the Arakawa River), Saitama Prefecture
Chichibu Bridge is a bridge spanning the Arakawa River and appears in scenes such as when the characters use it as a school commute route. From the bridge, you can view Mount Bukoh and other mountains of Chichibu, representing one of the landscapes symbolizing the work’s world view.
The vista from the bridge changes appearance depending on season and time of day. The scenery at dusk in particular is beautiful and is a popular photography spot.
Other Sacred Sites
Roadside Station Fruit Park Ashigakubo
Address: 1915-6 Ashigakubo, Yokoze Town, Chichibu County, Saitama Prefecture
One of the locations that served as a model for scenery appearing in the work. Functioning as a roadside station, you can enjoy local specialty products and meals. It is also an ideal rest stop during sacred site pilgrimage.
Mount Bukoh
Mount Bukoh, a symbol of Chichibu, appears in the background of the work many times. With an elevation of 1,304 meters, it can be seen from almost any location within Chichibu City.
It is possible to climb the mountain, but for sacred site pilgrimage, it is typical to enjoy the sight of Mount Bukoh from the city streets. Finding the same angles as those appearing in the work while conducting pilgrimage is one way to enjoy it.
Area around Saitama Prefectural Chichibu Agricultural and Technical High School
A location considered to be one of the models for the high school in the work. Since it is a school facility, entry into the grounds is not permitted, but the surrounding scenery appears in the narrative.
Recommended Routes for “A Whisper of the Heart” Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Efficient One-Day Route
We introduce a recommended route for efficiently touring sacred sites in a single day.
Morning: Yokoze Town Area
- Arrival at Seibu Chichibu Station (around 9:00)
- Approximately 80 minutes via Seibu Express Red Arrow from Ikebukuro
- Begin by renting a bicycle at the station or moving by bus and on foot
- Yokoze Station (9:30)
- View the station building appearing in the work
- Obtain a sacred site map at the tourist information center
- Daiji Temple (10:00-11:00)
- Thoroughly view the most important spot
- Photography of stone steps and temple grounds
- Worship and offering of prayer plaques
- Residential neighborhoods in Yokoze Town (11:00-12:00)
- Explore while searching for scenery appearing in the work
- Visit photography spots with Mount Bukoh in the background
Lunch: Chichibu City Area (12:00-13:00)
- Enjoy Chichibu specialties such as wara-ji katsudon (large cutlet over rice) or Chichibu buckwheat noodles
- Confirm the sacred site map while planning the afternoon
Afternoon: Chichibu City Area
- Chichibu Shrine (13:30-14:00)
- Experience Chichibu’s history and culture
- Explore the townscape that served as background for the work
- Chichibu Bridge (14:30)
- Enjoy the view from the bridge
- Photograph the scenery of Mount Bukoh and the Arakawa River
- Hitsujiyama Park (15:00-16:00)
- View Chichibu cityscape from the Hill with a View
- Enjoy seasonal flowers
- Chichibu Muse Park (16:30-17:30)
- Enjoy the sunset scenery from the observation deck
- Memorial photography at the location that served as the model for the “castle”
- Seibu Chichibu Station (18:00)
- Take a hot spring bath at “Matsuri no Yu” in front of the station (optional)
- Purchase souvenirs
- Depart for return journey
Two-Day Route for Leisurely Exploration
For those with more time, a two-day sacred site pilgrimage is also recommended.
Day 1: Yokoze Town Area Centered
- Morning: Thoroughly tour around Yokoze Station and Daiji Temple with detailed attention to minor spots
- Afternoon: Explore Roadside Station Fruit Park Ashigakubo and the Ashigakubo area
- Evening: Stay in Chichibu city area, visit tourist facilities such as the Chichibu Night Festival Hall
Day 2: Chichibu City Area Centered
- Morning: Tour Chichibu Shrine, Chichibu Bridge, and detailed spots in the city area
- Afternoon: Tour Hitsujiyama Park, Chichibu Muse Park, and scenic viewpoints
- Evening: Relax at a hot spring, then depart for return journey
Advice by Transportation Method
Pilgrimage on Foot
- Sacred sites in Yokoze Town are concentrated within walking distance of the station
- Main spots in Chichibu city are also walkable distances
- However, some locations such as Chichibu Muse Park are difficult to reach on foot
Rental Bicycle
- Rental available at Seibu Chichibu Station or Yokoze Station and surrounding areas
- Electric-assist bicycles are recommended (due to many hills)
- Allows for efficient touring of a wide area in one day
Local Bus
- Buses operate from Seibu Chichibu Station to various spots
- Confirm timetables in advance for smooth travel
- Using a one-day pass is economical
Rental Car or Personal Vehicle
- Offers the greatest freedom and efficient use of time
- Convenient access to highland spots such as Chichibu Muse Park
- Verify parking availability in advance
The Appeal of the Characters and Story in “A Whisper of the Heart”
Main Character Introductions
Jun Naruse (Naruse Jun)
- Voice: Inori Minase (anime version) / Played by: Sena Nakajima (live-action version)
- The protagonist of this work. A high school girl afflicted with a “curse” where speaking causes stomach pain due to childhood trauma, rendering her unable to talk with others
- She believes she was cursed by the “Egg Fairy” living on top of a castle
- Since singing does not cause pain, she expresses her feelings through the musical
Takumi Sakakami (Sakakami Takumi)
- Voice: Aoki Uchiyama (anime version) / Played by: Kento Nakajima (live-action version)
- Jun’s childhood friend. Was an ace on the baseball team but gave up baseball due to an arm injury
- Assigned to the community exchange planning committee, he reunites with Jun
- With a kind and sincere personality, he gradually opens Jun’s heart
Natsuki Nito (Nito Natsuki)
- Voice: Amayu Amemiya (anime version) / Played by: Kyoko Yoshine (live-action version)
- A member of the cheerleading club, a bright and active high school girl
- Has feelings for Takumi
- Works on the musical as a planning committee member with Jun and the others
Daiki Tasaki (Tasaki Daiki)
- Voice: Yoshimasa Hosoya (anime version) / Played by: Anna Ishii (live-action version)
- A member of the concert band, a model student
- In a relationship with Natsuki, but holds complex feelings
- Handles the music for the musical
The Theme and Appeal of the Story
“A Whisper of the Heart” is a work centered on the themes of “words” and “communication.” The process by which Jun, who has lost her voice, conveys her feelings through music as an alternative expression method is carefully portrayed.
The appeal of the work lies in the realistic depiction of the heart wounds and conflicts that each character bears. Not only Jun, but Takumi, Natsuki, and Daiki each carry worries and regrets. As the four engage in the community exchange musical, they face each other’s true feelings and grow—a portrayal with which many viewers deeply empathized.
Music is also a major appeal of this work. The musical numbers performed in the film enhance the narrative’s emotional impact many times over. Particularly, the song “My Voice” that Jun sings at the climax has become a memorable piece for many fans.
Access Methods and Preparations for Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Access from Tokyo
Access by Train
- Seibu Ikebukuro Line and Chichibu Line
- Approximately 80 minutes from Ikebukuro Station to Seibu Chichibu Station via express Red Arrow train
- Fare: Approximately ¥1,500 per direction (including express fare)
- Frequency: 1-2 trains per hour
- The most convenient and recommended route
- Via JR Hachioji Line
- Take the Takasaki Line to Kumagaya Station, transfer to Chichibu Railway to Chichibu Station
- Takes longer, but allows you to enjoy the atmosphere of the local Chichibu Railway line
Access by Car
- Approximately 30 km, about 50 minutes from Hanazono IC on the Kan-Etsu Expressway via National Route 140
- Approximately 40 km, about 70 minutes from Sayama Hidaka IC on the Circular Expressway via National Route 299
- Be cautious of traffic congestion on weekends and tourist season
Preparations for Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Packing Checklist
- Sacred site pilgrimage map (available locally, can also be confirmed online in advance)
- Work image data (save to smartphone for convenient comparative photography)
- Camera/smartphone (do not forget chargers)
- Comfortable walking shoes (due to many slopes and stone steps)
- Beverages and light snacks
- Clothing appropriate to weather (sun protection in summer, warm clothing in winter)
Things to Confirm in Advance
- Weather forecast (rainy days make outdoor spot photography difficult)
- Opening hours and holidays of each spot
- Bus timetables (if planning to travel by bus)
- Accommodation reservations (if staying overnight)
Manners and Rules
- Absolutely no trespassing on private property
- School facilities are view-only from outside; avoid disrupting classes
- Respect temple and shrine etiquette
- Be mindful of noise in residential areas
- Always dispose of garbage properly
- Respect the lives of community residents
Tourist Spots in Chichibu That Can Be Enjoyed Alongside Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Three Major Chichibu Sites
Chichibu Night Festival Hall
- A facility where you can experience Chichibu’s traditional “Chichibu Night Festival” year-round
- Displays of actual floats and decorative umbrellas used in the festival
- Learn about Chichibu’s history and culture
Nagatoro Line Descent
- An activity where you can enjoy the scenic canyon beauty of the Arakawa River by boat
- The landscape is beautiful throughout the seasons: cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in summer, autumn foliage in fall
- Approximately 20 minutes by Chichibu Railway from Chichibu Station
Mitsumine Shrine
- A shrine located 1,100 meters above sea level, one of the Kanto region’s leading power spots
- Features a mystical atmosphere and spectacular views
- Access is by bus for approximately 90 minutes; recommended if time permits
Chichibu Cuisine
Waraji Katsudon
- Chichibu’s signature dish with two large cutlets over rice
- Named from the resemblance to sandals (waraji) in size
- Served at multiple eateries throughout the city
Chichibu Buckwheat Noodles
- Noodles prepared with Chichibu’s pure water
- High fragrance with excellent texture
- Many long-established noodle shops
Miso Potato
- A local dish of steamed potatoes topped with a sweet and spicy miso sauce
- Readily available at roadside stations and eateries
Chichibu Wine
- Wine made from Chichibu-grown grapes
- Winery tours are also available
Hot Spring Facilities
Matsuri no Yu
- A complex hot spring facility at Seibu Chichibu Station
- Ideal for soothing tired muscles from sacred site pilgrimage
- Includes food court and product hall
Chichibu Hot Spring Mangannoyu
- A day-use hot spring facility in the Nagatoro area
- Outdoor bath with views of the Arakawa River canyon is popular
“A Whisper of the Heart” Related Events and Merchandise Information
Regularly Held Events
Anime Sacred Site 88 Stamp Rally
- A stamp rally organized by Saitama Prefecture for sacred site pilgrimage
- Includes two “Kokosake” spots among sacred sites throughout the prefecture
- Participants receive limited-edition merchandise as prizes
Chichibu Anime Tourism
- An initiative by the Chichibu City Tourism Association to promote anime sacred site pilgrimage
- Distribution of sacred site maps, installation of guide signs, and more
- Collaboration events held periodically
Merchandise and Souvenirs
Daiji Temple Original Merchandise
- Prayer plaques with “Kokosake” designs
- Protective amulets and temple seals
- Postcards and more
Seibu Chichibu Station Product Hall
- Region-limited merchandise in collaboration with the work
- Available for purchase alongside Chichibu specialty products
Sacred Site Pilgrimage Maps
- Distributed free at tourist information centers
- Include detailed location information and access directions
Recommended Pilgrimage Times by Season
Spring (March – May)
- Recommendation Points: Moss pink blooming season at Hitsujiyama Park (mid-April to early May)
- Climate: Pleasant weather, ideal for foot-based pilgrimage
- Cautions: Arrive early during moss pink season due to crowding
Summer (June – August)
- Recommendation Points: Beautiful fresh greenery, full enjoyment of Chichibu’s nature
- Climate: Hot, but cooler than central Tokyo
- Cautions: Do not forget sunscreen and hydration
Fall (September – November)
- Recommendation Points: Beautiful autumn foliage, the most suitable season for sacred site pilgrimage
- Climate: Cool and comfortable, with mostly ideal weather for photography
- Cautions: Peak season requires early accommodation reservations
Winter (December – February)
- Recommendation Points: Special atmosphere during Chichibu Night Festival (December 2-3)
- Climate: Cold, but Mount Bukoh stands out clearly in the crisp winter air
- Cautions: Bundle up warmly; be careful on snowy ground
Differences Between the Anime and Live-Action Versions and Points for Enjoying Both
The live-action film released in 2017 was also filmed in the Chichibu region, featuring an impressive cast including Kento Nakajima, Kyoko Yoshine, and Anna Ishii.
Similarities Between Anime and Live-Action Versions
- The basic storyline remains the same
- Chichibu and Yokoze Town serve as the setting
- Major sacred sites such as Daiji Temple are shared
Differences
- Fine details and character portrayal differ
- The live-action version features additional filming locations
- Music and musical scene direction differ
Prior viewing of both works before pilgrimage allows for deeper enjoyment. The same location offers different angles and direction in anime versus live-action, providing twice the enjoyment.
Conclusion: The Appeal of “A Whisper of the Heart” Sacred Site Pilgrimage
The sacred site pilgrimage for “A Whisper of the Heart” is a wonderful experience that not only allows you to experience the narrative’s world view but also lets you touch upon the beautiful nature and culture of the Chichibu region of Saitama Prefecture.
The sacred sites—centered on Daiji Temple in Yokoze Town area, and including Chichibu Muse Park and Hitsujiyama Park in Chichibu City area—each tie in with important narrative scenes, and visiting them revives the work’s emotional impact.
The ease of access—just approximately 80 minutes by express from Tokyo—is another appeal, allowing you to tour major spots even on a day trip. If time permits, a one-night stay to enjoy Chichibu hot springs and cuisine while leisurely touring sacred sites is also recommended.
Through sacred site pilgrimage, by actually following the paths that Jun and her friends walked and confirming the scenery they saw with your own eyes, your understanding of and affection for the work will deepen further. The warm welcome from community members is also a major appeal of Chichibu sacred site pilgrimage.
Respect manners and community spirit as you fully enjoy your pilgrimage to the sacred sites of “A Whisper of the Heart.” You will be able to feel the work’s message of “the courage to convey one’s true feelings” at these sacred locations.
