【Yama no Susume】 Hanno City, Saitama Prefecture
“Yama no Susume Next Summit,” which began airing in October 2022, is the fourth series in the franchise, produced in the long-awaited 30-minute time slot, and features more sacred sites than ever before. This article provides detailed introductions to sacred site pilgrimage spots that serve as the stage for the anime centered in Saitama Prefecture, along with access methods and photography points.
What is Yama no Susume Next Summit?
“Yama no Susume Next Summit” is the fourth series of an anime work themed on mountain climbing, based on the manga of the same name by Shiro. The story depicts Aoi Yukimura, an indoor-oriented protagonist, awakening to the charm of mountain climbing as a trigger for reuniting with her childhood friend Hinata Kurasawa, and challenging various mountains together with her friends.
In Next Summit, drawing on experience cultivated through previous series, the growth of Aoi and her companions as they face higher mountains and new challenges is depicted, with actual climbing spots and cityscapes carefully recreated.
The Center of Sacred Site Pilgrimage: About Hanno City, Saitama Prefecture
Why Hanno City Was Chosen as the Stage for Yama no Susume
Hanno City, Saitama Prefecture, is located approximately 50km from central Tokyo and, while offering excellent access from the city center, is blessed with abundant nature. Low mountains around 200m elevation are scattered throughout the area, with an environment where even beginners can enjoy mountain climbing at their leisure.
In the work, the cityscape of Hanno is depicted in detail as the setting for the school the protagonists attend and their daily lives, making it a characteristic feature to enjoy sacred site pilgrimages not only of climbing but also of daily scenes. Hanno City itself is proactive in collaboration with the anime, with character panels and stamp rallies installed throughout the city.
How to Access Hanno City
By Train
- Seibu Ikebukuro Line: Approximately 40 minutes by limited express from Ikebukuro Station to Hanno Station, approximately 50 minutes by local train
- JR Hachioji Line: Also accessible from the Hachioji direction
By Car
- Approximately 15 minutes from “Sayama-Hidaka IC” on the Kanto Ring Expressway
- Approximately 30 minutes from “Tsurugashima IC” on the Kan-Etsu Expressway
For sacred site pilgrimages, it is convenient to use Hanno Station or Higashi-Hanno Station on the Seibu Ikebukuro Line as a starting point. There are also bicycle rental shops in the station area, allowing you to efficiently visit pilgrimage spots.
Major Sacred Site Pilgrimage Spots in Hanno City
1. Seiboh Gakuen Junior and Senior High School (Model School)
This is the model for the school that Aoi and Hinata attend. In the work, the school building’s exterior and surrounding scenery appear repeatedly. Since it is an actual school facility, entering the grounds is strictly prohibited, but you can take photos from the same angles as in the anime from the surrounding roads and railway crossings.
Photography Points
- Railway crossing in front of school: Appears frequently in scenes of coming home from school
- Surrounding slopes: Used as background in scenes of students going to and from school
Access
- Approximately 15 minutes walk from “Higashi-Hanno Station” on the Seibu Ikebukuro Line
Pilgrimage Notes
Since it is a school facility, avoid visiting during class hours and observe quietly. Care must be taken not to cause inconvenience to students and related personnel.
2. Tenran Mountain
A low mountain with an elevation of 197m, it is 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 also serves as the stage for important scenes in Next Summit.
Highlights
- Mountain summit observation deck: A spectacular spot overlooking Hanno cityscape
- Sixteen Arhat Statues: Stone Buddha group in the middle of the climbing trail
- Mid-level Plaza: A rest spot that appears repeatedly in the work
Climbing Course
- Time Required: Approximately 20-30 minutes one way (beginner-friendly)
- Difficulty: Low (well-maintained climbing trail)
- Trailhead: Behind Ninin Temple or from Hanno Central Park
Photography Points
- Summit observation deck: Where Aoi and Hinata first reached the peak
- Mid-level Plaza bench: Appears in rest scenes
- Stairs in front of Sixteen Arhat: Standard shot in climbing scenes
3. Tonosuya Mountain
With an elevation of 271m, it is a mountain that can be traversed from Tenran Mountain. It also appears in Next Summit and offers a more authentic mountain climbing atmosphere.
Characteristics
- Traverse course from Tenran Mountain: Approximately 1 hour
- Views from the summit: Panoramic views of the Okumusashi mountains
- Multiple climbing trails: Various routes to enjoy
Access
You can traverse from Tenran Mountain or take a route that climbs directly from the Hanno River area.
4. Kannon Temple
A temple in Hanno City, it frequently appears in the work as a meeting place. The temple grounds feature a large elephant statue, which is depicted impressively in the work.
Highlights
- Elephant statue on temple grounds: Appears in Next Summit Episode 1
- Plaza in front of main hall: Stage for meeting scenes
- Stone steps on the approach: Used as background in various scenes
Access
- Approximately 10 minutes walk from “Hanno Station” on the Seibu Ikebukuro Line
Photography Tips
The elephant statue creates the same composition as in the anime when photographed from the front. The temple grounds are free to view, but please be considerate of worshippers.
5. Nenin Temple
A Soto Zen temple at the foot of Tenran Mountain, it serves as the starting point for climbing Tenran Mountain. It features a beautiful garden and appears as background in the work.
Highlights
- Pond-viewing garden with walking path: Designated scenic spot in Saitama Prefecture
- Main hall: Imposing architecture
- Tenran Mountain trailhead: Access to climbing trail from behind
Viewing Information
- Viewing hours: 9:00-17:00 (varies by season)
- Viewing fee: Garden viewing is paid (approximately 300 yen)
6. Hanno Ginza Shopping Street
This shopping street appears in the work as the setting for the protagonist’s part-time job location. The street retains a retro atmosphere, and various stores appear in the work.
Sacred Sites
- Cake shop (model store): Aoi’s part-time job location
- Shopping street arcade: Scenes of walking home from school
- Various stores: Appear as background in numerous scenes
Access
- Approximately 5 minutes walk from “Hanno Station” on the Seibu Ikebukuro Line
Pilgrimage Tips
Since many actual businesses operate on the shopping street, care must be taken not to interfere with their operations during photography. It is good manners to say hello to the shop owners before taking pictures.
7. Hanno Central Park
A park that appears in important scenes of the work, such as the former jungle gym site. It appears from the first season as a place of memories for Aoi and Hinata.
Highlights
- Jungle gym site: Monument has been erected
- Plaza: Stage for various daily scenes
- Tenran Mountain trailhead: Access to climbing trail from the park
Access
- Approximately 15 minutes walk from “Hanno Station” on the Seibu Ikebukuro Line
- Also within walking distance from Higashi-Hanno Station
8. Hanno Municipal Library
The library that appeared in Next Summit Episode 1. It is used in scenes where Aoi and her friends research climbing information.
Facility Information
- Hours: 9:00-19:00 (until 5:00 PM on Sundays and holidays)
- Closed: Mondays, New Year’s, etc.
- Use: Free for anyone to use
Photography Points
The exterior can be photographed freely, but permission is required for interior photography. View quietly.
Climbing Sacred Sites Around Hanno City
Hiwa Mountain (Hidaka City, Saitama Prefecture)
A mountain with an elevation of 305m that appeared in Next Summit Episode 7 “Where Should We Watch the First Sunrise?” Located in Hidaka City, neighboring Hanno City.
Characteristics
- First sunrise viewing spot: Stage for sunrise climbing in the work
- Men’s path and women’s path: Two climbing routes
- Kotohira Shrine: Shrine near the summit
Climbing Information
- Time Required: Approximately 30-40 minutes one way
- Difficulty: Low to medium (men’s path is somewhat steep)
- Trailhead: Approximately 15 minutes walk from “Koma Station” on the Seibu Chichibu Line
Photography Points
- Summit observation deck: Stage for sunrise scene
- Men’s path stairs: Appear in climbing scenes
- Kotohira Shrine: Worship scenes
Access
Koma Station on the Seibu Chichibu Line is the nearest station, two stations from Hanno Station. The trailhead can be reached on foot from the station.
Arima Dam (Hanno City, Naguri District, Saitama Prefecture)
A dam where murals appear impressively in Next Summit Episode 6. Located in the mountainous Naguri district of Hanno City.
Highlights
- Dam wall murals: Characterized by huge bird imagery
- Dam lake: Known as Naguri Lake
- Surrounding nature: Rich natural environment of Okumusashi
Access
- Approximately 50 minutes by Kokusai Kogyo bus from Hanno Station to “Naguri Bus Terminal” or “Yunosawa”
- By car: Approximately 30 minutes from Hanno Station
Pilgrimage Tips
Car access is convenient around the dam. Since bus frequency is limited, check the schedule in advance.
Bonoyane Peak (Hanno City, Saitama Prefecture)
With an elevation of 969m, it is a full-fledged climbing spot that appears throughout the series. It also serves as an important stage in Next Summit.
Climbing Information
- Time Required: Approximately 4-5 hours round trip
- Difficulty: Intermediate level
- Highlights: Shiratani Gorge, Gonjiri Pass, etc.
Access
- To Sawarabi-no-Yu (trailhead): Approximately 1 hour by bus from Hanno Station
Efficient Sacred Site Pilgrimage Model Courses
Day Trip Hanno City Course (Time: Approximately 6-8 hours)
Morning: Mountain Climbing Main
- Arrival at Hanno Station (9:00)
- Climb Tenran Mountain via Nenin Temple (9:30-11:00)
- Traverse to Tonosuya Mountain (11:00-12:00)
- Lunch at Hanno River after descent (12:30-13:30)
Afternoon: City Tour
- Kannon Temple (14:00-14:30)
- Hanno Ginza Shopping Street (14:30-15:30)
- Hanno Central Park (15:30-16:00)
- Around Seiboah Gakuen School (16:30-17:00)
- Return trip from Hanno or Higashi-Hanno Station (17:30)
1-Night, 2-Day Full Experience Course
Day 1: Complete Hanno City Pilgrimage
- Morning: Climb Tenran Mountain and Tonosuya Mountain
- Afternoon: Sacred site pilgrimage in the city
- Evening: Rest at Hanno River
- Accommodation: Hanno City or near Hanno Station
Day 2: Expanded Surrounding Areas
- Morning: Hiwada Mountain climbing (access from Koma Station)
- Afternoon: Arima Dam area or Bonoyane Peak (choose based on energy level)
Running Pilgrimage Course (Time: Approximately 2-3 hours)
Episode 5 of Next Summit features a scene of running through Hanno City, and a course to recreate this is also popular.
- Start at Hanno Station
- Kannon Temple
- Hanno Ginza Shopping Street
- Hanno Central Park
- Nenin Temple
- Tenran Mountain mid-level (as far as running allows)
- Hanno River
- Goal at Hanno Station
Distance: Approximately 8-10 km
Tips to Enhance Your Sacred Site Pilgrimage Experience
Advance Preparation
Anime Viewing
If possible, watch not just Next Summit but also from the first season, which deepens your appreciation of each spot. Taking screenshots of specific scenes in advance allows for smooth comparative photography at locations.
Using Map Apps
Pre-pinning sacred sites in Google Maps is efficient. Downloading offline maps provides peace of mind even in mountainous areas.
Climbing Equipment
While Tenran Mountain is a low mountain, minimum climbing equipment is necessary:
- Comfortable hiking shoes (sneakers or better recommended)
- Drinking water (500ml or more)
- Towel
- Rain gear (fold-up umbrella, etc.)
- Snacks (chocolate, etc.)
Photography Tips
Angle Matching
To photograph from the same angle as the work, adjust your standing position and height while referring to screenshots. Especially for building and landscape photography, it becomes easier to match by using landmarks like telephone poles or signs as reference points.
Time Selection
The angle of light in the morning and evening can recreate the same atmosphere as the work. Particularly, the Tenran Mountain summit is beautiful at dusk and overlaps with scenes in the work.
Seasonal Considerations
Next Summit depicts scenes of all four seasons. Visiting during the same period as the work, such as cherry blossom season, fresh greenery season, or autumn foliage season, allows for pilgrimage with greater realism.
Collaboration with Local Community
Hanno City’s Initiatives
Hanno City is proactive in tourism promotion utilizing “Yama no Susume,” undertaking the following:
- Placement of character panels (various locations throughout the city)
- Stamp rally events (limited time)
- Sale of collaboration merchandise (tourism information office, etc.)
- Distribution of sacred site maps
Utilizing the Tourism Information Office
The tourism information office in front of Hanno Station provides sacred site pilgrimage maps and the latest collaboration information. Staff are also knowledgeable about sacred sites and will recommend routes.
Etiquette and Precautions
Consideration for Private Property
Some spots, such as Seiboah Gakuen, are private property or school facilities. Never enter the grounds, and view with restraint from public roads.
Photography in Residential Areas
Many scenes have residential areas as background. Please be considerate of residents’ privacy and avoid visiting during early morning or late night.
Photography in Stores
When photographing on shopping streets and similar locations, care is needed not to inconvenience operating stores. If possible, obtain permission from the shop owner before photographing.
Mountain Climbing Etiquette
- Greet other climbers you pass
- Always take trash with you
- Do not leave marked trails
- Do not touch wildlife or plants
- Do not shout loudly
SNS Posting Precautions
When posting photos taken to SNS, check that personally identifying information (car license plates, nameplate addresses, etc.) is not captured in the shot.
Attractions of Hanno That Can Be Enjoyed Together with Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Gourmet Spots
Hanno Specialties
- Suiemon: Local specialty cuisine
- Hanno Suiton: Dumpling soup with kneaded wheat flour
- Cuisine using local vegetables
Recommended Cafes
Various cafes dot the area around Hanno Station and in the shopping street, ideal for relaxing after climbing. You can enjoy lunch and sweets made with local ingredients.
Hot Springs and Bath Facilities
Sawarabi-no-Yu
A day-use hot spring facility in the Naguri district. Perfect for stopping by after climbing Bonoyane Peak.
Hanno River
A spot where you can enjoy river activities during summer. A barbecue area is also available.
Event Information
Various events are held in Hanno City throughout the year:
- Hanno New Greenery Two-Day March (May)
- Hanno Festival (November)
- Yama no Susume Related Events (irregular)
Visiting during event periods allows for a more fulfilling sacred site pilgrimage.
Accommodation Information
Accommodation in Hanno City
Business Hotels
Several business hotels are located around Hanno Station, offering reasonable accommodation.
Guest Houses
Guest houses converted from old private houses are also available, allowing you to enjoy interaction with local people.
Campgrounds
Multiple campgrounds are located in the Naguri district, allowing you to fully enjoy outdoor activities.
Accommodations in Surrounding Areas
If accommodation cannot be found in Hanno City, you can stay in cities along the Seibu Line such as Tokorozawa or Kawagoe and travel to Hanno the next day.
Seasonal Recommended Pilgrimage Plans
Spring (March-May)
Highlights
- Cherry blossom blooming period (late March to early April)
- Mountain climbing season beginning with new greenery
- Pleasant climate, easy to walk
Recommended Spots
- Cherry blossoms at Tenran Mountain
- Cherry blossom tree-lined avenue at Hanno River
- Flowers in Central Park
Summer (June-August)
Highlights
- River activities at Hanno River
- Deep green mountains
- Early morning climbing to avoid heat
Precautions
- Heat stroke prevention essential
- Frequent water replenishment
- Insect repellent measures
Autumn (September-November)
Highlights
- Autumn foliage season (mid to late November)
- Ideal climate for mountain climbing
- Autumn festivals and other events
Recommended Spots
- Autumn foliage at Tonosuya Mountain
- Nenin Temple garden
- Autumn foliage around Arima Dam
Winter (December-February)
Highlights
- First sunrise climbing (Hiwa Mountain)
- Clear mountain views from peaks with crisp air
- Quiet mountain walks in winter
Precautions
- Cold weather protection essential
- Time management important due to early sunset
- Caution regarding ice (especially men’s path of Hiwa Mountain)
Summary of Major Sacred Sites by Next Summit Episodes
Episode 1
- Kannon Temple (elephant statue)
- Hanno Municipal Library
- Hanno Central Park
- Roads to Tenran Mountain
Episode 5
- In-city running course
- Tenran Mountain
- Hanno River area
Episode 6
- Arima Dam
- Naguri district
Episode 7
- Hiwa Mountain
- Around Koma Station
- Kotohira Shrine
Episodes 11-12
- Mt. Fuji (Mt. Fuji climbing edition)
Apps and Tools Useful for Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Map Apps
- Google Maps: As basic map
- YAMAP: Mountain climbing map app, offline usage possible
- Mountains and High Plateaus Map: Detailed mountain climbing map
Sacred Site Pilgrimage Support Apps
- Butai Meguri: Dedicated anime sacred site pilgrimage app
- Instagram: Gather information from other pilgrims using hashtag “#ヤマノススメ聖地巡礼”
Transportation Apps
- Seibu Line App: Operation information and timetable
- Jorudan Transfer Guide: Also confirm bus schedules
Conclusion: The Appeal 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 world but also a precious experience to feel the theme of the work—”the charm of mountains”—through actual mountain climbing and city walks.
Sacred sites centered in Hanno City, Saitama Prefecture, have good access from the city center and can be visited easily even by beginners. The ability to experience the same growth process as the work—beginning with low mountains like Tenran Mountain and gradually tackling more authentic climbing—is also part of its appeal.
Through sacred site pilgrimages, not only anime fans but anyone can discover the joy of mountain climbing, the beauty of nature, and the charm of the region. Please observe manners, exercise safety precautions, and enjoy the same scenery as Aoi and Hinata.
Hanno City shows different faces in each season, so there are new discoveries with each visit. By all means, plan your own sacred site pilgrimage and immerse yourself in the world of “Yama no Susume.” Why not head to the mountains of Hanno this coming weekend and aim for a new summit yourself?
