[We Still Don’t Know the Name of the Flower We Saw That Day] Chichibu City, Saitama Prefecture
“We Still Don’t Know the Name of the Flower We Saw That Day” (commonly known as “Anohana”), which aired in 2011 and captured the hearts of many anime fans. The stage for this moving work is Chichibu City, Saitama Prefecture. In this article, for those planning a pilgrimage to the sacred sites of Anohana, we will thoroughly explain the detailed information of major spots, access methods, efficient ways to visit, and points to make your pilgrimage more enjoyable.
What is Anohana? The Appeal of the Work and Its Connection to Chichibu
“We Still Don’t Know the Name of the Flower We Saw That Day” is an original television anime work produced by A-1 Pictures. The story begins when Menma (Honma Meiko), a member of six childhood friends known as the “Super Peace Busters,” appears as a ghost before the protagonist Jintan (Yushio Jinta) several years after dying in an accident.
Why Was Chichibu Chosen as the Setting?
The production staff actually visited Chichibu City and were captivated by its beautiful natural environment and nostalgic townscape, which led to Chichibu being chosen as the setting. Many real locations appear in the work, and the charm of Chichibu is expressed perfectly through detailed background depictions.
Chichibu City, following the popularity of the work, has established a system to welcome pilgrims to sacred sites, with character panels and signboards from the anime installed throughout the city. Collaboration with local shopping streets is also active, with fans and the community working together to promote the work.
Preparation for Pilgrimage: Basic Information and Access Methods
Accessing Chichibu
By Train
- Approximately 80 minutes from Ikebukuro Station on the Seibu Chichibu Line “Limited Express Red Arrow”
- Approximately 120 minutes from Ikebukuro Station on the Seibu Chichibu Line “Local Train”
- Approximately 90 minutes from Kumagaya Station via JR Hakko Line and Chichibu Railway
By Car
- Approximately 30 minutes from “Hanazono IC” on the Kanetsu Expressway via National Route 140
- Approximately 50 minutes from “Sayama Hidaka IC” on the Enokoku Ring Road via National Route 299
Best Season for Pilgrimage
While Chichibu is beautiful throughout all four seasons, the following periods are especially recommended:
Spring (April – May)
The shibazakura (moss phlox) at Hitsuji Mountain Park comes into bloom, and you can enjoy your pilgrimage alongside the flowers that appear in the work. However, early action is recommended as the shibazakura season is crowded.
Autumn (October – November)
The autumn foliage is beautiful, and the pleasant weather is ideal for walking pilgrimages. The period around the Chichibu Night Festival (December) is especially lively.
Summer (July – August)
You can experience the very season that served as the setting for the work. However, since Chichibu is located in a basin, precautions against heat are necessary.
Packing Checklist
- Sacred site map (available at Chichibu City Tourist Association or via smartphone app)
- Camera/Smartphone (don’t forget chargers)
- Drinks/Light snacks (frequent walking required)
- Comfortable walking shoes (many slopes and stairs)
- Sunscreen/Hat (during summer)
- Rainwear (in case of weather changes)
Must-See! Major Sacred Site Spot Detailed Guide
1. Jorin Temple (Jorinij)
Appearance in the Work
It serves as the location of the Super Peace Busters’ secret base and is an important stage for the story. It is filled with memories of Menma and plays an important role in the climactic scenes.
Highlights
- Staircase behind the main hall: exactly as depicted in the anime
- Atmosphere of the temple grounds: a quiet space where you can immerse yourself in the world of the work
- Cherry blossom tree: beautiful cherry blossoms bloom in spring
Access
Approximately 25 minutes on foot from Seibu Chichibu Station, or approximately 20 minutes on foot from Chichibu Railway’s Chichibu Station. You will need to climb a slope, so allow extra time for your visit.
Etiquette
Jorin Temple is actually used as a place of worship. Please view it quietly so as not to disturb other visitors, and take photographs only within permitted areas.
2. Chichibu Bridge (Chichibu-bashi)
Appearance in the Work
This symbolic bridge appears in the opening sequence and throughout the main story multiple times. It is used in impressive scenes such as when the Super Peace Busters members walk across it.
Highlights
- View from the bridge: panoramic view of the Arakawa River and Chichibu mountains
- Landscape at dusk: the beauty exactly as depicted in the anime
- Bridge design: beautiful arch-shaped structure
Photography Spots
You can photograph from the same angle as the anime from near the center of the bridge. However, please pay close attention to safety due to traffic.
Access
Approximately 10 minutes on foot from Chichibu Station. Located close to the town center, making it easily accessible.
3. Hitsuji Mountain Park (Hitsuji-yama Koen)
Appearance in the Work
The work features important scenes such as Menma and Jintan watching fireworks. Located on a elevated area, it offers a spectacular view overlooking Chichibu city.
Highlights
- Hill of moss phlox: approximately 400,000 plants bloom from mid-April to early May
- Observation platform: panoramic view of Chichibu city and Buko Mountain
- Spacious park: perfect for picnicking and relaxing
Access
Approximately 20 minutes on foot from Seibu Chichibu Station, or approximately 15 minutes on foot from Yokoze Station. As there are slopes, taxi use is recommended for those without confidence in their stamina.
Admission
There is a fee only during the moss phlox blooming period (300 yen for general admission); it is free during other periods.
4. Chichibu Shrine (Chichibu Jinja)
Appearance in the Work
It appears as a representative shrine of Chichibu in scenes including the Chichibu Night Festival.
Highlights
- Main hall in Gongen style: designated as a National Important Cultural Property
- Carvings attributed to Jingo Lefago Shingorou: includes “Dragon of Binding” and “Tiger of Child-Rearing”
- Chichibu Night Festival: one of Japan’s three major float festivals held on December 2-3
Access
Extremely conveniently located, just about 3 minutes on foot from Chichibu Railway’s Chichibu Station.
5. Old Chichibu Bridge (Kyu Chichibu-bashi)
Appearance in the Work
The bridge appears in daily scenes as one near Jintan’s house.
Highlights
- Retro bridge structure: carries a sense of history
- Riverside walking path: ideal for leisurely strolls
Access
Approximately 15 minutes on foot from Chichibu Station. It can be reached by walking from Chichibu Bridge.
6. Chichibu Muse Park
Appearance in the Work
Various locations within the park, including the observation platform and walking trails, appear in the work.
Highlights
- Observation platform: spectacular view overlooking the Chichibu Basin
- Sky Road: a 1.5 km tree-lined path
- Concert hall: hosts various events
Access
Approximately 20 minutes by bus from Seibu Chichibu Station. Given the vastness of the park, renting a bicycle is also recommended.
7. Model of Jintan’s House
Appearance in the Work
Frequently appears as the protagonist Jintan’s residence.
Important Note
Since this is based on a general private residence:
- Never trespass on the property without permission
- Do not make loud noise
- Always take your trash with you
- Avoid visiting early in the morning or at night
Access
Located in a residential area approximately 15 minutes on foot from Chichibu Station.
8. Anohana Chaya (Pilgrimage Base)
A gift shop and rest area for “Anohana” located near Chichibu Shrine. It is ideal for purchasing official merchandise, obtaining sacred site maps, and gathering pilgrimage information.
Business Hours
10:00 – 17:00 (Closed: Irregular)
Access
Approximately 5 minutes on foot from Chichibu Railway’s Chichibu Station
Efficient Pilgrimage Model Routes
Half-Day Course (Approximately 4 hours)
9:00 Arrival at Seibu Chichibu Station
↓ 5-minute walk
9:05 Information gathering and merchandise purchase at Anohana Chaya
↓ 3-minute walk
9:30 Visit Chichibu Shrine
↓ 10-minute walk
10:00 Explore around Chichibu Bridge and Old Chichibu Bridge
↓ 20-minute walk
11:00 Visit Jorin Temple
↓ 25-minute walk
12:00 Lunch around Chichibu Station
↓ 20-minute walk
13:00 Stroll through Hitsuji Mountain Park
Full-Day Experience Course (Approximately 8 hours)
9:00 Arrival at Seibu Chichibu Station
↓ 5-minute walk
9:05 Information gathering at Anohana Chaya
↓ 3-minute walk
9:30 Visit Chichibu Shrine
↓ 10-minute walk
10:00 Explore around Chichibu Bridge and Old Chichibu Bridge
↓ 15-minute walk
10:45 Around Jintan’s house (from a distance)
↓ 20-minute walk
11:30 Visit Jorin Temple
↓ 25-minute walk
12:30 Lunch around Chichibu Station
↓ 20-minute walk
14:00 Stroll through Hitsuji Mountain Park
↓ 20-minute bus ride
16:00 Chichibu Muse Park
↓ 20-minute bus ride
17:30 Purchase souvenirs around Seibu Chichibu Station
Two-Day Comprehensive Course
Day 1
Visit sacred sites centered in the town and stay at a Chichibu hot spring in the evening. You can enjoy the pilgrimage slowly while savoring local cuisine.
Day 2
Combine visits to suburban sacred sites with Chichibu tourist attractions (Nagatoro, Mitsumine Shrine, etc.) for a comprehensive experience of Chichibu’s charm.
Points to Make Your Pilgrimage More Enjoyable
Rewatch the Anime Before Visiting
Reviewing the work before your pilgrimage multiplies the emotion at each spot many times over. Confirming which location specific scenes were depicted will allow you to immerse yourself more deeply in the world of the work.
Participate in Pilgrimage Notebooks and Stamp Rallies
The Chichibu City Tourist Association and local shopping streets regularly hold “Anohana”-related stamp rallies and events. Participating in these makes your pilgrimage more fun and provides exclusive merchandise as bonuses.
Enjoy Local Cuisine Too
Savor Chichibu’s famous local dishes alongside your pilgrimage:
- Chichibu Soba: aromatic local buckwheat noodles
- Waraji Katsudon: Chichibu specialty featuring large cutlets
- Miso Potato: steamed potatoes with sweet and spicy miso sauce
- Chichibu Hormon: locally beloved meat dish
- Chichibu Whiskey: famous for Ichiro’s Malt
Share Information on Social Media
Post using hashtags such as “#AnohanaHolyLandPilgrimage” or “#Chichibu” to interact with other fans, discover new places, and exchange information.
Aim for Seasonal Limited Events
Chichibu hosts various events throughout the year:
- Chichibu Night Festival (December 2-3): one of Japan’s three major float festivals
- Moss Phlox Festival (mid-April to early May): moss phlox at Hitsuji Mountain Park in full bloom
- Ryusei Festival (October): homemade rocket fireworks festival
Visiting during these event periods allows you to enjoy both the pilgrimage and Chichibu’s traditional culture.
Pilgrimage Etiquette and Rules
No Trespassing on Private Property
Some locations appearing in the work are modeled after general residences or private property. At these locations:
- Never trespass on property without permission
- Do not make loud noise
- Always take your trash with you
- Avoid visiting early in the morning or at night
Photography Precautions
- Check photography-prohibited areas at shrines and temples
- Be considerate so other tourists and locals don’t appear in shots
- Take photographs in locations that don’t obstruct traffic
- Judge tripod use based on surrounding conditions
Consideration for Local Residents
Chichibu City warmly welcomes pilgrims because visitors display good manners. Never forget gratitude toward the local residents and conduct yourself with restraint.
Accommodation and Access Information in Chichibu
Recommended Accommodations
Hot Spring Inns
- Manganon no Yu: hot spring facility with day-use bathing available
- Chichibu Yumoto Bukoh Onsen: hot spring near Chichibu city center
- Natural Farm City Farm Hotel: resort surrounded by nature
Business Hotels
- Hotel Route Inn Chichibu: near Seibu Chichibu Station
- Chichibu Hotel: near Chichibu Shrine
Guest Houses
- Chichibu Guest House: for backpackers
- Chichibu Kotabi: guest house in renovated traditional house
Bicycle Rental Information
Several locations in Chichibu offer bicycle rental services:
- Seibu Chichibu Station Tourist Information Office: electric-assist bicycles available
- Chichibu Railway Chichibu Station: regular bicycles
- Rates: approximately 500 yen to 1,500 yen per day
Using a bicycle allows you to efficiently visit places that would take too long on foot. However, electric-assist bicycles are recommended due to numerous slopes.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Tourist spots in Chichibu worth visiting alongside your pilgrimage:
Nagatoro (Nagatoro)
A scenic area approximately 20 minutes away by Chichibu Railway. Famous for line boating and stone slabs, it is perfect for enjoying natural beauty.
Mitsumine Shrine (Mitsumine Jinja)
A power spot ranked among Japan’s finest, located on a mountain at 1,100 meters elevation. The mysterious atmosphere and scenic views are its charm. Approximately 75 minutes by bus from Seibu Chichibu Station.
Buko Mountain (Bukoh-san)
Chichibu’s symbolic mountain. Climbing is possible, and the view from the summit is exceptional.
Chichibu Festival Museum
A facility where you can learn about the history and culture of the Chichibu Night Festival. Full-sized floats and elaborate portable shrines are on display.
Pilgrimage Essentials and Attire
Recommended Clothing by Season
Spring (March – May)
- Long-sleeved shirt + thin jacket
- Bring something to wear as it gets cold in the morning and evening
- Hat recommended as sunlight becomes strong
Summer (June – August)
- Breathable clothing
- Sunscreen and hat are essential
- Bring plenty of drinks for hydration
- Insect repellent spray
Autumn (September – November)
- Long-sleeved shirt + cardigan or jacket
- Bring cold-weather gear by November
- Early action recommended as autumn foliage season is crowded
Winter (December – February)
- Thick outerwear such as down jackets
- Gloves, scarf, hat
- Non-slip shoes as snow may fall
Essential Items
- Smartphone (map app, camera function)
- Portable battery charger
- Drinks (vending machines scarce outside town center)
- Coins (for buses and vending machines)
- Sacred site map (paper version convenient as backup)
- Adhesive bandages (for long walks)
Souvenir Information in Chichibu
Anohana-Related Merchandise
- Anohana Chaya: official merchandise, limited items
- Chichibu Anime Tourism Base Facility: various merchandise
- Local shopping streets: collaboration merchandise, etc.
Chichibu Local Products
- Chichibu Meisen: traditional silk fabrics
- Chichibu Maple Syrup: 100% domestic maple sap
- Chichibu Mochi: local Japanese sweets
- Chichibu Whiskey-Related Products: mini bottles, etc.
- Chichibu Soba: dried or fresh noodles
Conclusion: Have a Memorable Experience Through Anohana Sacred Site Pilgrimage
The pilgrimage to the sacred sites of “We Still Don’t Know the Name of the Flower We Saw That Day” is a special experience beyond mere sightseeing. By immersing yourself in the world of the work while touching Chichibu’s beautiful nature and culture, new discoveries and emotions await.
Keys to making your pilgrimage successful:
- Thorough advance preparation: confirm access methods, pilgrimage routes, business hours
- Follow etiquette: never forget consideration for local residents
- Allow extra time: take it slow and savor the world of the work
- Enjoy local attractions too: experience cuisine, hot springs, and other tourist spots
- Keep records: create memories through photos and journals
Chichibu remains a special place for Anohana fans. More than 10 years since the work aired, many fans continue to visit with new encounters and discoveries.
Why not visit Chichibu yourself and experience the world of “the flower we saw that day”? It will surely become a wonderful memory that stays with you.
The town of Chichibu welcomes your visit with open arms. In the place where Menma and the Super Peace Busters spent their time, create your own story.
