A Complete Guide to Anime Pilgrimage in Tochigi: “Zatsu Tabi” Sacred Sites in Nasu Karasuyama
“Zatsu Tabi -That’s Journey-” is a short anime series featuring Chika-chan, an aspiring manga artist, embarking on spontaneous travels throughout Japan. The sixth episode, set in Nasu Karasuyama City, Tochigi Prefecture, was selected as one of “88 Japanese Anime Sacred Sites Worth Visiting” in the 2026 edition. This article comprehensively introduces essential information for conducting actual pilgrimage visits to this location, covering access methods, detailed information about each spot, efficient pilgrimage routes, and local cuisine—a complete guide for Zatsu Tabi fans to fully enjoy Nasu Karasuyama City.
What is Zatsu Tabi? Why Tochigi Was Selected as a Sacred Site
“Zatsu Tabi -That’s Journey-” is a short anime adaptation of a manga by Kenta Ishizaka. The story follows Chika-chan discovering the appeal of various regions throughout Japan through her unplanned “sloppy travels.”
Nasu Karasuyama City in Tochigi Prefecture, featured in the sixth episode, is a small city of approximately 23,000 residents located about 50 minutes from Utsunomiya Station via the JR Karasuyama Line. The area is dotted with attractive tourism destinations that harmonize history and nature, including the nationally designated historic site “Karasuyama Castle Ruins,” the “Dokutsu Sake Brewery” utilizing an underground factory from the end of World War II, and “Ryumon Falls,” which is also listed in Japan’s Top 100 Waterfalls.
With its selection for the “88 Japanese Anime Sacred Sites Worth Visiting” 2026 edition by the Anime Tourism Association, the city has garnered attention from anime fans nationwide. The unique charms featured in the work—such as extra-thick handmade soba and underground sake brewery—have attracted numerous pilgrims.
Access Methods to Nasu Karasuyama City
Access from the Tokyo Area
The gateway to Nasu Karasuyama City is Karasuyama Station on the JR Karasuyama Line. The distance from the Tokyo area makes day-trip pilgrimages entirely feasible.
Basic Route:
- From Tokyo or Ueno Station to Utsunomiya Station via the Tohoku Main Line (approximately 50 minutes by shinkansen, approximately 1 hour 50 minutes by conventional train)
- Transfer to the JR Karasuyama Line at Utsunomiya Station
- Approximately 50 minutes to Karasuyama Station (a two-car local train)
Important Notes About the Karasuyama Line:
- Train frequency is extremely limited; advance schedule confirmation is essential
- Approximately one to two trains per hour during daytime hours
- Service frequency decreases further on weekends and holidays
- It is recommended to allow adequate time for transfers at Utsunomiya Station
Access by Car
Using a personal vehicle allows for greater freedom in conducting the pilgrimage.
- From the Tohoku Expressway “Utsunomiya IC” via National Route 293, approximately 40 minutes
- From the Joban Expressway “Naka IC” via National Route 293, approximately 50 minutes
Parking is available at each tourist spot, though popular establishments such as Mori Shokudo may experience waiting lines during busy times.
Recommended Pilgrimage Courses
One-Day Pilgrimage Course (Train)
An efficient pilgrimage route using the JR Karasuyama Line is introduced below.
Morning: Taki Station Area
9:00 Depart from Utsunomiya Station
↓
9:50 Arrive at Taki Station
↓ 5 minutes on foot
10:00 Ryumon Falls viewing (30 minutes)
↓ Immediately on foot
10:40 Ryumon Furusato Folk Art Hall and Ryumon Café (40 minutes)
↓ 15 minutes on foot
11:30 Dokutsu Sake Brewery tour and tasting (60 minutes)
Lunch: Mori Shokudo
12:40 Travel from Taki Station to Karasuyama Station (approximately 10 minutes)
↓
13:00 Extra-thick soba at Mori Shokudo (60 minutes)
Afternoon: Karasuyama Station Area
14:10 Karasuyama Station area exploration
↓ 10 minutes on foot
14:30 Yakumo Shrine visit (20 minutes)
↓ 15 minutes on foot
15:00 Karasuyama Castle Ruins (Sanomaru area) viewing (40 minutes)
↓ 20 minutes on foot
15:50 Tsurumasa Tea Shop (30 minutes)
↓
16:30 Depart from Karasuyama Station
↓
17:20 Arrive at Utsunomiya Station
This course allows you to visit the major spots featured in the work without overexertion. However, adjustments according to Karasuyama Line schedules will be necessary.
In-Depth Pilgrimage Course (1 Night 2 Days)
If you have more time available, staying at Karasuyama Hot Spring and taking a leisurely pilgrimage is also recommended.
Day 1:
- Arrive at Nasu Karasuyama City in the afternoon
- Tour tourist spots around Karasuyama Station
- Stay overnight at Karasuyama Hot Spring (known as a beautiful skin hot spring—an alkaline simple hot spring)
Day 2:
- Conduct morning pilgrimage around the Taki Station area
- Have lunch at Mori Shokudo
- Move to Utsunomiya Station in the afternoon and enjoy Utsunomiya gyoza
Detailed Guide to Major Sacred Sites
Taki Station (JR Karasuyama Line)
An unmanned station where Chika-chan alights. The station building, depicted impressively in the work, retains the strong atmosphere of a local railway line.
Highlights:
- Retro station building exterior
- Rural scenery visible from the platform
- Quiet atmosphere at the station front
Photography Points:
The angle from the front of the station building closely matches the composition in the work. Since train frequency is limited, the times of arrival and departure become opportunities for photography.
Ryumon Falls
A signature tourist attraction of Nasu Karasuyama City introduced in the work. This large waterfall measures 65 meters in width and 20 meters in height and is listed among Japan’s Top 100 Waterfalls.
Access:
- Approximately 5 minutes on foot from Taki Station on the JR Karasuyama Line
- Parking available (free)
Highlights:
- Magnificent waterfall scenery
- Legend of a large serpent residing in the falls
- Natural beauty changing with the seasons (particularly popular during fresh greenery and autumn foliage seasons)
- Walking trails descending to near the waterfall basin
Usage Information:
- Free to view
- No admission fee
- Open year-round
Water volume at the falls varies by season and rainfall. For an impressive display, the period right after rain or during spring snowmelt is recommended.
Ryumon Furusato Folk Art Hall and Ryumon Café
A facility located immediately near Ryumon Falls that combines regional folk art exhibits with a rest area.
Business Information:
- Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Café: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM)
- Closed: Mondays (following days if Monday is a holiday), year-end and New Year
- Admission: Free
Facility Contents:
- First floor: Folk art exhibits, souvenir section
- Second floor: Ryumon Café (light meals and beverages)
From the Ryumon Café, you can relax while enjoying views of the waterfall. Light meals and sweets using local ingredients are available, making it an ideal rest stop during pilgrimage.
Dokutsu Sake Brewery (Shimazaki Sake Brewery)
A nationally rare underground cave sake brewery visited by Chika-chan in the work.
History:
During the final period of World War II, this underground facility was excavated for tank manufacturing. After the war, the stable temperature and humidity maintained in the underground environment proved ideal for Japanese sake storage, leading Shimazaki Sake Brewery to begin utilizing it as a sake brewery.
Viewing Information:
- Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Closed: Irregular (confirmation recommended)
- Viewing fee: Free
- Tasting: Available (not available for drivers)
Access:
- Approximately 15 minutes on foot from Taki Station
- Approximately 10 minutes on foot from Ryumon Falls
- Parking available
Highlights:
- Underground cave approximately 600 meters in length
- Environment maintained at approximately 10-15°C year-round
- Japanese sake storage scenery
- Historical value as a war relic
Popular Products:
- “Tourikishi” series
- Limited-edition cave-aged sake
- Products using sake lees
The interior offers ample space, but weekends and tourism seasons attract many visitors. For leisurely viewing, weekday mornings are recommended. The tasting corner allows sampling of multiple varieties, enabling visitors to find favorites and make purchases.
Mori Shokudo
A long-established eatery where extra-thick handmade soba is the specialty, depicted most impressively in the work.
Business Information:
- Hours: 11:00 AM to approximately 2:00 PM (closing time when sold out)
- Closed: Irregular (advance confirmation recommended)
- Seating: Approximately 30 seats including tatami seating
Access:
- Approximately 5 minutes on foot from Karasuyama Station
- Parking: Several spaces in front of the establishment
Menu:
- Mori Soba (extra-thick handmade): Around 800 yen
- Kake Soba: Around 750 yen
- Tempura Soba: Around 1,200 yen
Characteristics:
The Nasu Karasuyama area is known as a production region for “Yakumo Soba,” and Mori Shokudo serves traditional extra-thick rustic soba. The noodles are approximately two to three times thicker than standard soba and very filling. The broth has a sweet flavor profile, which may appeal to some more than others, but it is a taste treasured by local residents over many years.
Important Notes:
- As a popular establishment, expect crowds during lunch hours
- Early opening time (around 11:00 AM) or after 1:00 PM is comparatively less crowded
- Early closure due to sell-outs is possible, so late hours should be avoided
- The tatami seating featured in the work is highly popular and often fully booked
Among pilgrimage enthusiasts, visiting this establishment has become a standard “concluding ritual” for Zatsu Tabi pilgrimages.
Karasuyama Station
The terminus of the JR Karasuyama Line and the gateway to Nasu Karasuyama City.
Station Building Characteristics:
- Relatively new station building (renovated in 2014)
- Tourist information office attached
- Local tourism information posted in the waiting room
Nearby Facilities:
- Convenience stores (within 5 minutes on foot)
- Tourist map distribution
- Bicycle rental (advance reservation required)
A Nasu Karasuyama City tourism map is placed at the station front, providing useful information for first-time visitors. Speaking with station staff may also yield recommendations for local favorite spots.
Karasuyama Castle Ruins (Sanomaru Area)
A nationally designated historic mountain castle site visited by Chika-chan in the work.
History:
Constructed in the 14th century, during the Edo period it served as the administrative center of Karasuyama Domain. Following the Meiji Restoration, it was abandoned, and today stone walls and some earthworks remain.
Access:
- Approximately 15 minutes on foot from Karasuyama Station
- Approximately 20 minutes on foot from the castle entrance to the main keep ruins
Highlights:
- Stone wall remains
- Sanomaru area plaza
- Views from the main keep ruins
- Development as a castle mountain park
Important Notes:
- Mountain trails require appropriate clothing and footwear
- Summer heat prevention measures recommended (hydration, hat, etc.)
- Winter requires thermal protection and caution regarding frozen surfaces
- Ground near Ryumon Falls is slippery; exercise caution
The Sanomaru area is relatively easily accessible, allowing visitors to experience the castle ruins atmosphere without ascending to the main keep. Time permitting, climbing to the main keep offers stunning panoramic views of Nasu Karasuyama City.
Yakumo Shrine
A shrine in Karasuyama’s central district that draws local devotion.
Access:
- Approximately 10 minutes on foot from Karasuyama Station
Characteristics:
- Quiet grounds
- Local people’s place of worship
- Oshuin (shrine seal stamp) available (may not be available if the shrine priest is absent)
Though only briefly featured in the work, this location allows visitors to experience the region’s history and has become a visitation spot for pilgrims.
Tsurumasa Tea Shop
A long-established tea shop in the area that appeared in the work.
Business Information:
- Hours: 9:00 AM to approximately 6:00 PM
- Closed: Sundays (confirmation recommended)
Product Range:
- Various Japanese teas
- Tea implements
- Regional specialty products
This shop retains the atmosphere of a traditional teahouse—a rare gem. Conversation with the proprietor is enjoyable and can yield local information.
Kanagata Tunnel
A historic tunnel allowing visitors to feel Karasuyama’s castle town history.
Characteristics:
- Retro atmosphere
- Value as a historic structure
- Passable on foot or bicycle
The tunnel was depicted impressively as background in the work and is popular as a photography spot.
Points for Enhancing Pilgrimage Enjoyment
Utilizing the Official Zatsu Map
The anime official website publishes a “Zatsu Map” as a detailed map of spots featured in the work. Accessing it via smartphone while conducting the pilgrimage allows greater immersion in the work’s worldview.
Creating a Pilgrimage Notebook
The Nasu Karasuyama Tourism Association provides special maps and information for pilgrimage visitors. Prior inquiry enables efficient pilgrimage route planning.
Seasonal Points of Interest
Spring (March to May):
- Abundant water volume at Ryumon Falls
- Beautiful fresh greenery at Karasuyama Castle Ruins
- Comfortable weather
Summer (June to August):
- “Yamaage Festival” (outdoor kabuki with over 460 years of history) in late July
- Lush green scenery
- Pleasant coolness at Dokutsu Sake Brewery
Autumn (September to November):
- Ryumon Falls amid autumn foliage—spectacular views
- New soba season (new soba available at Mori Shokudo)
- Comfortable weather
Winter (December to February):
- Enchanting frozen Ryumon Falls (during severe cold periods)
- Fewer tourists, allowing leisurely pilgrimage
- Warm soba tastes exceptional
Enjoying Local Cuisine
Yakumo Soba:
Beyond Mori Shokudo, multiple establishments around Nasu Karasuyama serve Yakumo soba. Each offers distinctive characteristics, making taste comparisons enjoyable.
Local Sake:
Including “Tourikishi” from Dokutsu Sake Brewery, Tochigi Prefecture is known as a Japanese sake production region. Perfect for souvenirs.
Utsunomiya Gyoza:
A standard course includes stopping at Utsunomiya Station on the return journey to enjoy the famous Utsunomiya gyoza. The “Utsunomiya Gyoza-kan Paseo branch” in the station building allows sampling gyoza from multiple renowned establishments simultaneously.
Pilgrimage Etiquette and Safety Notes
Photography Etiquette
- Obtain permission from shop proprietors before photographing at dining establishments such as Mori Shokudo
- Exercise consideration to avoid inconveniencing other patrons
- Note photography prohibition areas at shrines and temples
- Avoid loud voices or extended stays in residential areas
Traffic Etiquette
- The Karasuyama Line is also a lifeline for local residents; observe proper conduct during use
- Remain quiet on station platforms and train cars
- Exercise caution to avoid obstructing traffic when photographing on roads
Consideration for the Community
- Always take trash with you when leaving
- Do not enter private property
- Make a point of greeting local residents
- Confirm facility business hours and closure dates in advance
Safety Considerations
- Karasuyama Castle Ruins involves mountain trails; wear appropriate clothing and footwear
- Summer requires heat prevention measures (hydration, hat, etc.)
- Winter requires thermal wear and caution regarding icy surfaces
- Ground near Ryumon Falls is slippery; exercise caution
Surrounding Tourist Spots
Meguro Sacred Site
Nasu Karasuyama City is also known as the birthplace of “Meguro,” a once-popular motorcycle manufacturer. The location holds value for motorcycle enthusiasts.
Yamaage Festival
Held annually in late July, this traditional event with over 460 years of history is registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. Planning a visit around this period is also recommended.
Karasuyama Hot Spring
An alkaline simple hot spring known as a beautiful skin hot spring. Day-use bathing is available at some facilities, making it ideal for soothing pilgrimage fatigue.
Worthwhile Stops in Utsunomiya
Utsunomiya Gyoza
Featured in the work, Utsunomiya gyoza. Numerous gyoza specialty shops are located around the station.
Recommended Establishments:
- Utsunomiya Gyoza-kan Paseo branch (in the station building; enjoy gyoza from multiple shops at once)
- Minmin Main Branch (long-established Utsunomiya gyoza establishment)
- Masashi (popular restaurant with long queues)
Futarasan Shrine
Known as Utsunomiya’s chief shrine. If time permits, a visit is recommended.
Souvenir and Merchandise Information
Nasu Karasuyama City Souvenirs
Dokutsu Sake Brewery:
- Tourikishi series Japanese sake
- Cave-aged limited-edition sake
- Products using sake lees
Ryumon Furusato Folk Art Hall:
- Regional folk art
- Ryumon Falls-related merchandise
- Local specialty products
Mori Shokudo:
- Dried soba for souvenirs
Anime-Related Merchandise
The Nasu Karasuyama Tourism Association distributes special maps and pamphlets for pilgrimage visitors. Downloadable pilgrimage maps are also available on the official website.
Lodging Information
Within Nasu Karasuyama City
Karasuyama Hot Spring:
- Day-use bathing also available
- Several accommodation facilities
- Early reservation recommended
In Utsunomiya City
Due to limited lodging in Nasu Karasuyama City, staying in Utsunomiya and conducting day-trip pilgrimages is also common practice.
Advantages:
- Abundant lodging options
- Enjoy Utsunomiya gyoza in the evening
- Expanded tourism options the following day
Latest Information Confirmation Methods
Official Websites
- TV Anime “Zatsu Tabi -That’s Journey-” Official Website: latest sacred site information, Zatsu Map
- Nasu Karasuyama Tourism Association Official Website: tourism information, event information
- Anime Tourism Association: information on 88 sacred sites
Social Media
- Official Twitter account for latest information
- Reference information from other pilgrims using hashtags “#ざつ旅” “#ざつ旅聖地巡礼”
On-Site Information Collection
- Tourist information office at Karasuyama Station
- Nasu Karasuyama Tourism Association (telephone inquiries also available)
- Direct confirmation of facility business information is most reliable
Conclusion: The Appeal of Zatsu Tabi’s Tochigi Chapter
Nasu Karasuyama City in Tochigi Prefecture, the setting for the sixth episode of “Zatsu Tabi -That’s Journey-,” is a captivating sacred site within day-trip distance from Tokyo, offering abundant natural beauty, history, and distinctive cuisine.
The majestic landscape of Ryumon Falls, the uniqueness of Dokutsu Sake Brewery utilizing war-era remains, the extra-thick soba at Mori Shokudo, and the views from Karasuyama Castle Ruins overlooking the city. These spots, depicted through the work, bring new discoveries and moving experiences upon actual visitation.
Swaying aboard the local Karasuyama Line, enjoy a “sloppy journey” just like Chika-chan. Things may not proceed as planned, but that too is the essence of “Zatsu Tabi.”
Selected for “88 Japanese Anime Sacred Sites Worth Visiting,” Nasu Karasuyama City draws attention from anime fans nationwide. The entire region welcomes pilgrims warmly.
Using the information in this article, please enjoy pilgrimage to Nasu Karasuyama City in Tochigi Prefecture. Your journey will become an experience through which you sense the work’s worldview while rediscovering the region’s appeal.
