【Angels Have Descended Upon Me! Precious Friends】 Karchari Town, Kyoto County, Fukuoka Prefecture
The movie “Angels Have Descended Upon Me! Precious Friends” (commonly known as Wataten Prefre), released on October 14, 2022, has become a beloved work cherished by many fans as a completely original theatrical version of the popular anime series based on Nanaatsu Mukugi’s original work. The setting for this film is centered around the Chichibu area, particularly Nagatoro Town in Chichibu County, Saitama Prefecture. The beautiful natural landscape and the warm story within the work blend wonderfully, and many fans have visited for sacred site pilgrimages since the release.
In this article, we will provide detailed explanations of all sacred site spots that appear in the movie and comprehensively deliver practical information for actually undertaking a pilgrimage.
About the Movie “Angels Have Descended Upon Me! Precious Friends”
“Angels Have Descended Upon Me! Precious Friends” is a completely original theatrical film based on the television anime “Angels Have Descended Upon Me!” The story depicts five close elementary school fifth-graders—Hana, Hinata, Noa, Koyori, and Natsu—visiting Nagatoro Town in Saitama Prefecture along with Hinata’s older sister Miyako, experiencing a summer festival and river rafting.
Released by Kadokawa ANIMATION, this work received high praise as a healing-type film in which the charm of the characters and the beautiful scenery of Nagatoro perfectly blend, despite its approximately 60-minute runtime. It was also selected for the 2024 edition of “88 Anime Sacred Sites Worth Visiting in Japan,” and Nagatoro Town has gained attention as a new anime sacred site.
Why Nagatoro Town Was Chosen as the Setting
Nagatoro Town is a nature-rich tourist destination located in the northwestern part of Saitama Prefecture in Chichibu County. It is known for its charm throughout the four seasons, including the Iwatadami scenic area—a nationally designated scenic site and natural monument created by the clear Arakawa River—as well as Nagatoro Line rafting, Mount Hodosan, cherry blossom-lined streets, and more.
In the movie, the natural beauty of Nagatoro and the region’s festival culture play important roles, perfectly matching the setting for a story of character growth and friendship among the main characters. The location is also ideal as a sacred pilgrimage site due to good access from the city center, taking approximately 2 hours from Ikebukuro via the Chichibu Railway.
Basic Information and Access for Sacred Site Pilgrimages
How to Access Nagatoro Town
Access by Train
- From Ikebukuro Station to Seibu-Chichibu Station on the Seibu Ikebukuro Line: approximately 80 minutes (express train)
- Transfer to the Chichibu Railway from Seibu-Chichibu Station to Nagatoro Station: approximately 20 minutes
- Total travel time: approximately 2 hours
Access by Car
- Approximately 30 minutes from the “Hanazono IC” on the Kanetsu Expressway via National Route 140
- Multiple parking areas near Nagatoro Station and around Iwatadami (both paid and free)
Best Seasons for Pilgrimages
While the movie is set in summer Nagatoro, actual pilgrimages can be enjoyed year-round.
- Spring (late March to April): Nagatoro is famous as a cherry blossom spot. The cherry-lined street along North Sakura Avenue is impressive
- Summer (July to August): The same season as the movie. The best time to enjoy Nagatoro Line rafting
- Autumn (November): Known for beautiful autumn leaves, particularly spectacular around Iwatadami
- Winter (December to February): Fewer tourists, allowing for quiet pilgrimages. The winter jasmine season is also attractive
Precautions During Pilgrimages
- Absolutely no entry into residential areas or private property
- Be considerate of those around you when taking photographs
- Always take your trash with you
- Never forget gratitude and respect toward local residents
- Consider contributing to the local economy through shopping at stores
Detailed Guide to Major Sacred Site Spots
Nagatoro Station (Chichibu Railway)
Nagatoro Station is where Miyako and her group get off at the beginning of the movie. The Chichibu Railway station building is a charming wooden structure, faithfully reproduced in the film.
Highlights
- Station exterior: retro-looking wooden station building
- Platform: allows recreation of the scene where Hana and friends get off
- Station plaza: has a tourism information office where you can obtain pilgrimage maps
Pilgrimage Points
Photographing the station building from directly in front will give you an angle close to the movie scene. Morning hours provide better lighting for photography.
Surrounding Information
- Tourism information office can provide tourist maps of Nagatoro
- Coin lockers available (convenient for depositing large luggage)
- Restrooms available
Iwatadami (Nagatoro Line Rafting Departure Area)
Iwatadami becomes the most impressive setting in the movie. This is a crystalline schist riverbed created by the Arakawa’s clear current and is designated as a nationally designated scenic site and natural monument.
Highlights
- Expansive rocky riverbed: the setting for scenes where Hana and friends walk
- Chichibu Red Cliff on the opposite bank: beautiful reddish-brown rock cliff
- Clear Arakawa River: pristine flowing water
Pilgrimage Points
You can actually walk on the rocks of Iwatadami. The movie features multiple scenes of the five girls—Hana, Hinata, Noa, Koyori, and Natsu—walking across Iwatadami. Standing in the same spot as the scenes on flat rocks along the river will bring the movie’s emotions back to life.
Photography Tips
- Afternoon hours provide better forward lighting for photography
- Rocks are slippery, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended
- Avoid getting too close to the water’s edge during high water periods, as it’s dangerous
Access
Approximately 5 minutes on foot from Nagatoro Station. Head right from the station exit and proceed through the shopping street to reach it.
Nagatoro Line Rafting
The Nagatoro “Line rafting” plays an important role in the climactic scenes of the movie. The film depicts Hana and friends riding in a traditional boat down the Arakawa River.
Experience Information
- Operating period: year-round (closed during floods and severe weather)
- Duration: Course A approximately 20 minutes, Course B approximately 20 minutes, full course approximately 40 minutes
- Fees: 1,800 yen to 3,300 yen for adults (varies by course)
- Reservations: recommended during busy periods
Pilgrimage Points
Actually experiencing the line rafting allows you to relive the movie’s scenes. Listening to the boatman’s explanations while viewing Iwatadami and the Chichibu Red Cliff from the water’s surface will be the greatest highlight of your sacred site pilgrimage.
Photography Spots
- Departure area: ideal for commemorative photos before boarding
- Views from the boat: Iwatadami, surrounding mountains
- After disembarking at Iwatadami: can photograph at angles similar to the movie scenes
Nagatoro Shopping Street
Along the path from Nagatoro Station to Iwatadami, a charming shopping street spreads out. It appears in the movie as background scenery, with scenes of Miyako and friends walking depicted.
Highlights
- Retro-atmosphere shop buildings
- Chichibu specialty souvenir stores
- Dining establishments (soba, udon, shaved ice, etc.)
Dining Information
- “Asami Reizou”: famous for natural ice shaved ice (long waits in summer are common)
- “Soba-dokoro Tajima”: hand-pulled soba is popular
- “Chouseikan”: Chichibu specialty pork miso rice bowl
Souvenirs
- Chichibu specialty confections
- Wataten collaboration goods (during tie-up periods)
- Local sake from Nagatoro
Hodosan Shrine
This is a representative shrine of Nagatoro and appears as an important location in the movie. It received one star in the Michelin Green Guide Japan.
Highlights
- Main hall: beautifully carved shrine architecture
- Approach path: charming stone steps
- View from the grounds: overlooks the town of Nagatoro
Pilgrimage Points
The movie features scenes around the shrine during festival settings. Visiting during the actual Nagatoro Funatama Matsuri (August 15) will allow you to feel the movie’s atmosphere more keenly.
Access
Approximately 15 minutes on foot from Nagatoro Station. Exit through the shopping street and climb a gentle slope.
Hodosan Ropeway
To continue to the summit from the shrine, using the Hodosan Ropeway is convenient. From the summit, you can enjoy spectacular views of the Chichibu Basin.
Spots Within Chichibu City
While the movie centers on Nagatoro Town, some spots in the neighboring city of Chichibu also appear.
Chichibu Shrine
An ancient shrine known as the primary shrine of the Chichibu region. The December Chichibu Night Festival is one of Japan’s three largest festival parades.
Chichibu Festival Hall
Displays festival floats and materials from the Chichibu Night Festival. Helps with understanding the background of the festival scenes in the movie.
Michi-no-Eki Chichibu
A souvenir spot featuring Chichibu specialty products. Ideal for rest breaks as well.
Areas Around Minano Town
Minano Town, which adjoins Nagatoro Town to the south, partially appears as a setting in the movie.
Oyahana Bridge
A Chichibu Railway iron bridge spanning the Arakawa River. Appears as a distant view in the movie.
Bi no Yama Park
A famous cherry blossom and autumn leaf viewing spot. An observation point overlooking the Nagatoro area, serving as reference for landscape scenes in the movie.
Tie-up Projects with Nagatoro Town
Aligned with the movie’s release, Nagatoro Town actively pursued tie-up projects.
Stamp Rally
During the movie’s release, a stamp rally visiting major spots throughout Nagatoro Town was held. Participants were presented with limited-edition goods, which was well-received by fans.
Collaboration Goods
- Original clear files
- Pilgrimage maps
- Limited badge pins
- Postcard sets
These were sold at Nagatoro Station’s tourism information office and cooperating stores throughout town.
Life-Size Panel Installation
Life-size character panels were installed at Nagatoro Station and around Iwatadami, becoming popular commemorative photo spots.
Local Store Cooperation
Restaurants and souvenir shops on the shopping street provided “Wataten” collaboration menus and goods. Efforts to boost the work were undertaken throughout the region.
Efficient Pilgrimage Model Courses
Half-Day Course (approximately 4 hours)
9:00 Arrival at Nagatoro Station
↓ 5 minutes on foot
9:10 Iwatadami sightseeing and photography (60 minutes)
↓ 5 minutes on foot
10:15 Shopping street exploration and shopping (45 minutes)
↓ 15 minutes on foot
11:15 Hodosan Shrine visit (30 minutes)
↓ 15 minutes on foot
12:00 Lunch at shopping street (60 minutes)
↓ 5 minutes on foot
13:05 Departure from Nagatoro Station
Full-Day Experience Course (approximately 8 hours)
9:00 Arrival at Nagatoro Station
↓ 5 minutes on foot
9:10 Iwatadami exploration (60 minutes)
↓ Immediately
10:10 Nagatoro Line rafting experience (60 minutes)
↓ 5 minutes on foot
11:15 Shopping street exploration (45 minutes)
↓ Immediately
12:00 Lunch (60 minutes)
↓ 15 minutes on foot
13:15 Hodosan Shrine visit (30 minutes)
↓ Using ropeway
14:00 Hodosan summit sightseeing (60 minutes)
↓ Using ropeway
15:15 Shopping street souvenir shopping and café rest (90 minutes)
↓ 5 minutes on foot
16:45 Departure from Nagatoro Station
Chichibu Area Touring Course (1 night, 2 days)
Day 1
- Morning: pilgrimage of major Nagatoro spots
- Afternoon: line rafting experience, Hodosan sightseeing
- Evening: move to Chichibu city, overnight stay
- Night: enjoy Chichibu hot springs
Day 2
- Morning: visit Chichibu Shrine and Chichibu Festival Hall
- Afternoon: sacred site spots around Minano Town
- Evening: purchase souvenirs at rest stop before heading home
Tips for Enjoying Sacred Site Pilgrimages Even More
Movie Preview and Review
Watching the movie beforehand via Blu-ray, DVD, or streaming services (such as Amazon Prime Video) and memorizing scenes and locations in your mind will make the pilgrimage more enjoyable. You will discover many new things while at the actual locations.
Camera and Photography Equipment
- Smartphones work adequately, but a single-lens reflex or mirrorless camera will produce more beautiful photographs
- A wide-angle lens makes it easier to express the vastness of Iwatadami
- Extra batteries are essential (especially in winter)
- Use tripods carefully in crowded areas
Clothing and Supplies
- Comfortable walking shoes (Iwatadami rocks are slippery)
- Seasonal appropriate clothing (heat protection in summer, cold protection in winter)
- Hat, sunscreen (in summer)
- Beverages (vending machines are concentrated near the station)
- Rain gear (to prepare for weather changes)
Information Gathering via SNS
Searching hashtags like “#watatenholysite” or “#nagatoro” on Twitter and Instagram will reveal current information and photography spots from other pilgrims.
Interaction with Locals
Shopping street owners and tourism information office staff are experts in the region’s attractions. Active communication can yield information not found in guidebooks.
Nagatoro’s Four Seasons and Annual Events
Spring (March to May)
- Late March to early April: Cherry blossoms bloom. The cherry-lined North Sakura Avenue displays approximately 3,000 blooming cherry trees
- Mid-April: Nagatoro Cherry Blossom Festival held
- May: Fresh green season. Ideal for hiking
Summer (June to August)
- July to August: Peak season for line rafting
- August 15: Nagatoro Funatama Matsuri (model for the festival scene in the movie)
- Mid-August: Lantern floating
Autumn (September to November)
- Early to late November: Peak autumn foliage. Particularly beautiful around Iwatadami
- Mid-November: Nagatoro Autumn Foliage Festival held
- November 23: Chichibu Night Festival (Chichibu City)
Winter (December to February)
- Late December to February: Hodosan winter jasmine in full bloom
- January to February: Ice pillar light-up displays (various locations in Chichibu area)
- Fewer tourists, allowing for quiet pilgrimages
Accommodation Information
Accommodations Within Nagatoro Town
Inns and Hotels
- Chouseikan: long-established inn, Chichibu cuisine available
- Yohoutei: traditional Japanese inn along Arakawa River
- Hana no Omotenashi Chouseikan: recently renovated comfortable facility
Bed and Breakfasts and Pensions
- Relatively affordable price range
- Homey atmosphere
Accommodations in Chichibu City
More options available, ranging from business hotels to hot spring inns.
Hot Spring Inns
- Seibu Chichibu Station-Front Hot Spring Matsuri no Yu: day-use hot spring also available
- Natural Farm City Hotel: accommodations in pristine nature
Business Hotels
- Multiple options around Chichibu Station and Seibu-Chichibu Station
- Relatively affordable
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Here are nearby spots worth visiting alongside sacred site pilgrimages.
Mitsumine Shrine
A mountain shrine at an altitude of 1,100m in the depths of Chichibu. Known as one of the Kanto region’s leading power spots. Approximately 1 hour by car from Nagatoro.
Chichibu Muse Park
A vast park facility. The observation platform offers spectacular views, and seasonal flowers can be enjoyed throughout the year.
Hitsujiyama Park
Famous for spring phlox flowers. From mid-April to early May, the entire park becomes covered in a pink carpet of blooms.
Chichibu Pilgrimage Site Touring
Touring the 34 Chichibu Kannon temples. Offers an experience of history and culture.
The Work’s Appeal and Its Relationship to the Sacred Site
One reason “Angels Have Descended Upon Me! Precious Friends” is beloved by many fans is that the charm of the characters and the beauty of Nagatoro as the setting blend perfectly. The story of five distinctive elementary school girls—Hana, Hinata, Noa, Koyori, and Natsu—deepening their friendship in Nagatoro’s natural setting warms the hearts of viewers. In particular, the scenes at Iwatadami and the river rafting scenes bring out the charm of actual Nagatoro to the maximum, leading many who watched the movie to feel, “I want to actually visit.”
The warm world created by original author Nanaatsu Mukugi and the healing nature of Nagatoro produce a synergistic effect, generating a flow of many fans visiting Nagatoro in the form of sacred site pilgrimages. It is also notable that Nagatoro Town itself has been actively pursuing tie-ups with the work, establishing favorable relationships between fans and the community.
Contributing to the Local Economy and Sustainable Sacred Site Pilgrimages
By being selected for “88 Anime Sacred Sites Worth Visiting in Japan” in the 2024 edition, Nagatoro Town gained a new pillar of tourism. Many voices from local shopping streets welcome fans of “Wataten,” with comments from local shop owners such as “it feels like we’ve gained grandchildren” being reported.
Sacred site pilgrimages carry meaning beyond mere tourism. Fans visit the region with love for the work, make purchases at local shops, and use restaurants, thereby contributing to the local economy. Simultaneously, the region’s charm is disseminated nationwide through the work, creating a favorable cycle of attracting new tourists.
For sustainable sacred site pilgrimage, mutual understanding and respect between fans and the community are essential. Pilgrimages observing etiquette, gratitude toward the community, and active contributions to the local economy will enhance the long-term value of sacred sites.
Conclusion: Journey to Nagatoro Where Angels Have Descended
Nagatoro Town in Saitama Prefecture, the sacred site of “Angels Have Descended Upon Me! Precious Friends,” is an ideal sacred site pilgrimage spot where beautiful natural scenery, warm local people, and the work’s world beautifully harmonize.
The majestic Iwatadami landscape, the Arakawa’s clear current, historic shrines and temples, and delicious Chichibu cuisine. All of these allow you to feel Hana and her friends’ story even more deeply. By reliving the experience of watching the movie in the actual locations, your love for the work will deepen further.
Good access from the city center—approximately 2 hours—is also an appealing feature. You can enjoy it thoroughly in a day trip, but if you have time, spending a night and leisurely touring the Chichibu area is also recommended. Nagatoro, showing different faces with each season, offers new discoveries with every visit.
Why not venture on a sacred site pilgrimage to Nagatoro, where the angels of “Wataten” have descended? Surely a heartwarming and wonderful experience awaits you.
