“Yama no Susume Next Summit,” which began broadcasting in October 2022, was produced in the eagerly awaited 30-minute format as the fourth season of the series, featuring more sacred sites than ever before. This article provides detailed introductions to pilgrimage spots in the anime’s settings, centered around Saitama Prefecture, along with access methods and shooting points.
About Yama no Susume Next Summit
“Yama no Susume Next Summit” is the fourth season of an anime series based on the manga of the same name by Shiro, themed around mountain climbing. The story depicts Aoi Yukimura, an indoor-loving protagonist, awakening to the charm of mountaineering after reuniting with her childhood friend Hinata Kurakami, and challenging various mountains together with her friends.
In Next Summit, drawing on experience cultivated through previous seasons, the growth of Aoi and her friends as they face higher mountains and new challenges is depicted, with actual mountaineering spots and cityscapes carefully recreated.
The Center of Sacred Site Pilgrimage: Hanno City, Saitama Prefecture
Why Hanno City Was Chosen as the Stage for Yama no Susume
Hanno City in Saitama Prefecture is located approximately 50 km from central Tokyo, offering good access to the city while blessed with abundant nature. Low mountains around 200 meters in elevation are scattered throughout, providing an environment where even beginners can easily enjoy mountaineering.
In the work, the cityscape of Hanno is depicted in detail as the setting for the school the protagonists attend and their daily life, making it possible to enjoy sacred site pilgrimages not only of mountaineering but also of daily scenes. Hanno City itself is actively collaborating with the anime, with character panels and stamp rallies installed throughout the city.
How to Access Hanno City
Access by Train
- Seibu Ikebukuro Line: Express from Ikebukuro Station to Hanno Station takes approximately 40 minutes, limited express approximately 50 minutes
- JR Hachioji Line: Access is also possible from the Hachioji direction
Access by Car
- Approximately 15 minutes from “Sayama Hidaka IC” on the Kanetsu Expressway
- Approximately 30 minutes from “Tsurugashima IC” on the Kan-Etsu Expressway
For sacred site pilgrimage, it is convenient to start from Hanno Station or Higashi-Hanno Station on the Seibu Ikebukuro Line. There is also a bike rental near the station, allowing you to efficiently visit pilgrimage spots.
Main Sacred Site Pilgrimage Spots within Hanno City
1. Seibo Gakuen Junior and Senior High School (Model School)
The model for the school that Aoi and Hinata attend. The exterior of the school building and surrounding scenery appear multiple times in the work. Since it is an actual school facility, entering the grounds is strictly prohibited, but you can take photos from the same angles as the anime from the surrounding roads and railroad crossings.
Shooting Points
- The railroad crossing in front of the school: Frequently appears in scenes of returning from school
- Surrounding slopes: Used as the background for scenes of going to and from school
Access
- Approximately 15 minutes on foot from “Higashi-Hanno Station” on the Seibu Ikebukuro Line
Notes on Pilgrimage
Since it is a school facility, avoid visiting during class time and observe quietly. Care must be taken not to inconvenience students and related parties.
2. Tenranzan Mountain
A low mountain with an elevation of 197 meters and one of the most important sacred sites throughout the entire Yama no Susume series. It is the memorable mountain where Hinata first invited Aoi to climb in the first season, and it serves as the stage for important scenes in Next Summit as well.
Highlights
- Mountain summit observation deck: A scenic spot offering a panoramic view of Hanno City
- Sixteen Rakan Statues: A group of stone Buddhas along the hiking trail
- Mid-level Plateau: A rest spot that appears multiple times in the drama
Hiking Course
- Time required: Approximately 20-30 minutes one way (suitable for beginners)
- Difficulty: Low (well-maintained hiking trail)
- Trailhead: Behind Ninin-ji Temple or from Hanno Central Park
Shooting Points
- Summit observation deck: The place where Aoi and Hinata first reached the peak
- Bench at the mid-level plateau: Appears in rest scenes
- Stairs in front of the Sixteen Rakan: A standard cut in climbing scenes
3. Tonosuya Mountain
An elevation of 271 meters, it can be traversed from Tenranzan Mountain. It appears in Next Summit and offers a more authentic mountaineering atmosphere.
Features
- Traverse course from Tenranzan Mountain: Approximately 1 hour
- View from the summit: A view of the Okumusashi Mountains
- Multiple hiking trails: Various routes can be enjoyed
Access
There is a route to traverse from Tenranzan Mountain, or a route to climb directly from the Hanno River area.
4. Kannon-ji Temple
A temple in Hanno City where it frequently appears as a meeting place in the work. There is a large statue of an elephant in the grounds, which is depicted impressively in the drama.
Highlights
- Statue of an elephant in the grounds: Appears in the first episode of Next Summit
- Plaza in front of the main hall: The stage for waiting-to-meet scenes
- Stone stairs on the approach: Used as the background in various scenes
Access
- Approximately 10 minutes on foot from “Hanno Station” on the Seibu Ikebukuro Line
Photography Tip
The elephant statue looks the same as in the drama when photographed from the front. The grounds are open for free viewing, but please be considerate of other visitors.
5. Ninin-ji Temple
A Soto Zen temple at the foot of Tenranzan Mountain and the starting point for climbing Tenranzan Mountain. It has a beautiful garden and appears as a background in the work.
Highlights
- Pond-stroll landscape garden: A designated scenic place in Saitama Prefecture
- Main hall: Imposing architecture
- Tenranzan Mountain trailhead: A hiking trail can be accessed from the back
Viewing Information
- Viewing hours: 9:00-17:00 (times may vary by season)
- Viewing fee: Garden viewing is paid (approximately 300 yen)
6. Hanno Ginza-dori Shopping Street
A shopping street that appears in the work as the location of Aoi’s part-time job. A shopping street with a retro atmosphere where various shops appear in the drama.
Sacred Spots
- Cake shop (model store): Aoi’s workplace
- Shopping street arcade: Scenes of returning from school
- Various shops: Appear as backgrounds
Access
- Approximately 5 minutes on foot from “Hanno Station” on the Seibu Ikebukuro Line
Pilgrimage Tips
Since many shops in the shopping street are still in business, care must be taken during photography to avoid disrupting their operations. It is good etiquette to say hello to the shopkeepers before taking photos.
7. Hanno Central Park
A park that appears in the work in important scenes, such as the site of a former jungle gym. It has appeared since the first season as a place of memories for Aoi and Hinata.
Highlights
- Jungle gym site: A memorial has been installed
- Plaza: The stage for various daily scenes
- Tenranzan Mountain trailhead: The hiking trail can be accessed from the park
Access
- Approximately 15 minutes on foot from “Hanno Station” on the Seibu Ikebukuro Line
- Within walking distance from Higashi-Hanno Station as well
8. Hanno City Library
The library that appeared in the first episode of Next Summit. It is used in scenes where Aoi and her friends research information about mountaineering.
Facility Information
- Opening hours: 9:00-19:00 (until 17:00 on Sundays and holidays)
- Closed: Mondays, year-end and New Year periods, etc.
- Usage: Open to the public
Shooting Points
The exterior can be freely photographed, but permission is required for interior photography. Observe quietly when viewing.
Mountaineering Sacred Sites in the Hanno Area
Hiwada Mountain (Hidaka City, Saitama Prefecture)
A mountain with an elevation of 305 meters that appeared in Next Summit Episode 7, “Where Should We Watch the First Sunrise?” Located in Hidaka City, adjacent to Hanno City.
Features
- First sunrise spot: The stage for watching the first sunrise in the work
- Male and female slopes: Two hiking routes
- Kotohira Shrine: A shrine near the summit
Hiking Information
- Time required: Approximately 30-40 minutes one way
- Difficulty: Low to medium (the male slope is somewhat steep)
- Trailhead: Approximately 15 minutes on foot from “Koma Station” on the Seibu Chichibu Line
Shooting Points
- Summit observation deck: The stage for the first sunrise scene
- Male slope stairs: Appear in hiking scenes
- Kotohira Shrine: Appears in worship scenes
Access
Koma Station on the Seibu Chichibu Line is the nearest station, two stations from Hanno Station. The trailhead can be accessed on foot from the station.
Arima Dam (Naguri District, Hanno City, Saitama Prefecture)
A dam where impressive murals appeared in Next Summit Episode 6. Located in the mountainous Naguri district of Hanno City.
Highlights
- Mural on the dam wall: Featured with a large image of a bird
- Dam lake: Enjoyed as Naguri Lake
- Surrounding nature: The abundant natural environment of the Okumusashi region
Access
- From Hanno Station, take the Kokusai Kogyo Bus to “Naguri Depot” or “Yunozawa” for approximately 50 minutes
- By car: Approximately 30 minutes from Hanno Station
Pilgrimage Tips
Access by car is convenient around the dam. Since the number of buses is limited, check the timetable in advance.
Bonomine Mountain (Hanno City, Saitama Prefecture)
An elevation of 969 meters, it appears throughout the series as a serious mountaineering spot. It also serves as an important stage in Next Summit.
Hiking Information
- Time required: Round trip approximately 4-5 hours
- Difficulty: Intermediate to advanced
- Highlights: Shiratani Sawa, Gonziri Pass, etc.
Access
- To Sawarabi-no-yu (trailhead): Approximately 1 hour by bus from Hanno Station
Efficient Sacred Site Pilgrimage Model Courses
Day Trip within Hanno City (Duration: Approximately 6-8 hours)
Morning: Focus on Climbing
- Arrival at Hanno Station (9:00)
- Tenranzan Mountain climbing via Ninin-ji Temple (9:30-11:00)
- Traverse to Tonosuya Mountain (11:00-12:00)
- Lunch at Hanno River after descending (12:30-13:30)
Afternoon: City Sightseeing
- Kannon-ji Temple (14:00-14:30)
- Hanno Ginza-dori Shopping Street (14:30-15:30)
- Hanno Central Park (15:30-16:00)
- Around Seibo Gakuen (16:30-17:00)
- Return journey from Hanno Station or Higashi-Hanno Station (17:30)
1-Night, 2-Day Comprehensive Course
Day 1: Complete Hanno City Tour
- Morning: Tenranzan and Tonosuya Mountain climbing
- Afternoon: City sacred site pilgrimage
- Evening: Rest at Hanno River
- Accommodation: Within Hanno City or around Hanno Station
Day 2: Expanded Surrounding Area
- Morning: Hiwada Mountain climb (access from Koma Station)
- Afternoon: Arima Dam area or Bonomine Mountain (choose based on fitness level)
Running Pilgrimage Course (Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours)
In Next Summit Episode 5, there is a scene of running through Hanno City, and a course recreating this is also popular.
- Start at Hanno Station
- Kannon-ji Temple
- Hanno Ginza-dori
- Hanno Central Park
- Ninin-ji Temple
- Tenranzan Mountain mid-point (as far as running allows)
- Hanno River
- Goal at Hanno Station
Distance: Approximately 8-10 km
Tips for More Enjoyable Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Prior Preparation
Watching the Anime
If possible, watch from the first season onward in addition to Next Summit; this deepens the emotional connection to each spot. Taking screenshots of specific scenes beforehand will make comparative photography at the location smooth.
Using Map Apps
It is efficient to pin the sacred sites in Google Maps in advance. Downloading offline maps ensures safety even in mountainous areas.
Mountaineering Equipment
Although Tenranzan is a low mountain, minimum mountaineering equipment is necessary:
- Easy-to-walk shoes (sneakers or better recommended)
- Drinking water (500 ml or more)
- Towel
- Rain gear (folding umbrella, etc.)
- Energy food (chocolate, etc.)
Photography Tips
Matching Angles
To photograph from the same angle as in the work, adjust your position and height while referring to screenshots. Particularly for building and landscape photography, using landmarks such as utility poles or signs as reference points makes matching easier.
Choosing Time of Day
Depending on the angle of light in the morning or evening, you can recreate the same atmosphere as in the work. Particularly, the Tenranzan summit is beautiful at dusk and overlaps with scenes in the drama.
Considering Seasons
Next Summit depicts scenes throughout the four seasons. Visiting during the same season as the work—cherry blossom season, fresh green season, fall foliage season—allows for a more immersive pilgrimage experience.
Collaboration with Local Community
Hanno City’s Initiatives
Hanno City actively promotes tourism using “Yama no Susume” and conducts the following efforts:
- Installation of character panels (throughout the city)
- Stamp rally events (seasonal)
- Sales of collaboration goods (tourist information centers, etc.)
- Distribution of sacred site maps
Using Tourist Information Center
At the tourist information center in front of Hanno Station, you can obtain sacred site pilgrimage maps and the latest collaboration information. Staff members are knowledgeable about sacred sites and can suggest recommended routes.
Etiquette and Precautions
Consideration for Private Property
Some spots, such as Seibo Gakuen, are private property or school facilities. Absolutely avoid entering the grounds and view with restraint from public roads.
Photography in Residential Areas
Many scenes feature residential areas as backgrounds. Be considerate of residents’ privacy and avoid visiting in the early morning or late night.
Photography at Shops
When photographing at shops and shopping streets, care must be taken not to disrupt business. If possible, obtain permission from the shop owner before photographing.
Mountaineering Etiquette
- Greet other climbers you pass
- Take all trash with you
- Stay on the hiking trail
- Do not touch wild plants or animals
- Keep noise levels down
Caution When Posting on Social Media
When posting photos you have taken on social media, check that personal identifying information (car license plates, nameplate, etc.) is not visible in the shots.
The Charm of Hanno That Can Be Enjoyed Along With Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Gourmet Spots
Hanno Specialties
- Suito-n: Local traditional cuisine
- Hanno suito-n: A dumpling soup made of kneaded wheat flour
- Dishes using local vegetables
Recommended Cafes
Around Hanno Station and in the shopping street, there are cafes scattered throughout, ideal for resting after climbing. You can enjoy lunch and sweets made with local ingredients.
Hot Springs and Bathing Facilities
Sawarabi-no-yu
A day-trip hot spring facility in the Naguri district. Ideal for stopping by after climbing Bonomine Mountain.
Hanno River
In summer, a spot where you can enjoy river activities. A barbecue area is also available.
Event Information
Throughout the year, various events are held in Hanno City:
- Hanno New Green Two-Day March (May)
- Hanno Festival (November)
- Yama no Susume-related events (irregular)
Visiting during event times allows for a more fulfilling sacred site pilgrimage.
Lodging Information
Accommodations within Hanno City
Business Hotels
There are several business hotels around Hanno Station, offering affordable lodging.
Guesthouses
Guesthouses in converted old farmhouses are also available, allowing you to enjoy interaction with local people.
Campgrounds
Multiple campgrounds in the Naguri district allow you to fully enjoy the outdoors.
Lodging in Surrounding Areas
If accommodations cannot be found in Hanno City, alternative is to lodge in nearby cities along the Seibu Line, such as Tokorozawa or Kawoe, and move to Hanno the next day.
Recommended Pilgrimage Plans by Season
Spring (March-May)
Highlights
- Cherry blossom season (late March to early April)
- Beginning of the hiking season for fresh greenery
- Mild weather making it easy to walk
Recommended Spots
- Cherry blossoms on Tenranzan
- Cherry blossom avenue along Hanno River
- Flowers in Central Park
Summer (June-August)
Highlights
- River activities at Hanno River
- Deep green mountains
- Early morning climbing to avoid heat
Cautions
- Heat stroke prevention is essential
- Frequent hydration
- Insect repellent measures
Autumn (September-November)
Highlights
- Fall foliage season (mid to late November)
- Optimal climbing weather
- Autumn festivals and other events
Recommended Spots
- Fall foliage on Tonosuya Mountain
- Ninin-ji Temple gardens
- Fall foliage around Arima Dam
Winter (December-February)
Highlights
- First sunrise climbing (Hiwada Mountain)
- Clear air providing excellent views from mountaintops
- Quiet winter mountain walks
Cautions
- Cold weather protection is essential
- Sunset comes early, requiring careful time management
- Watch for icing (particularly on the male slope of Hiwada Mountain)
Summary of Main Sacred Sites for Each Episode of Next Summit
Episode 1
- Kannon-ji Temple (elephant statue)
- Hanno City Library
- Hanno Central Park
- Road to Tenranzan Mountain
Episode 5
- Hanno City running course
- Tenranzan Mountain
- Hanno River and surrounding area
Episode 6
- Arima Dam
- Naguri district
Episode 7
- Hiwada Mountain
- Around Koma Station
- Kotohira Shrine
Episodes 11-12
- Mount Fuji (Mount Fuji climbing arc)
Apps and Tools Useful for Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Map Apps
- Google Maps: As a basic map
- YAMAP: Hiking map app, available for offline use
- Mountain and Highland Maps: Detailed hiking maps
Sacred Site Pilgrimage Support Apps
- Butai Meguri: Dedicated anime sacred site pilgrimage app
- Instagram: Information gathering using the hashtag “#YamaNoSusume Sacred Site Pilgrimage”
Transportation Apps
- Seibu Line App: Service information and timetables
- Jorudan Transfer Guide: Also check bus timetables
Conclusion: The Charm of Yama no Susume Next Summit Sacred Site Pilgrimage
The sacred site pilgrimage of “Yama no Susume Next Summit” is not only an opportunity to re-experience the anime’s world but also a valuable experience through actual mountaineering and city walking to feel the work’s theme of “the charm of mountains” firsthand.
The sacred sites centered on Hanno City in Saitama Prefecture have good access from the city center and can be easily visited even by beginners. Starting with low mountains like Tenranzan and gradually challenging more serious mountaineering, allowing you to experience the same growth process depicted in the work, is one of the attractions.
Through sacred site pilgrimage, not just anime fans but anyone can discover the joy of mountaineering, the beauty of nature, and the charm of the region. Please enjoy the same scenery as Aoi and Hinata while respecting etiquette and prioritizing safety.
Hanno City displays different faces throughout the four seasons, so there is a new discovery every time you visit. By all means, create your own sacred site pilgrimage plan and immerse yourself in the world of “Yama no Susume.” This coming weekend, why not aim for your own new summit in Hanno’s mountains?
