【Makoto Shinkai Works】Complete Guide to the Sacred Site of Kuzushima from “Weathering with You” | Thorough Explanation from Access to All Filming Locations
Director Makoto Shinkai’s blockbuster film “Weathering with You” (released in 2019) centers its story primarily on Tokyo, but the Tokyo Kuzushima Village plays an important role as the hometown of the protagonist Hodaka Morishima. This small island, located near the center of the Izu Islands, appears in opening scenes and important flashback sequences of the film, serving as the stage that shapes Hodaka’s character.
In this article, we provide a complete guide to the sacred site pilgrimage of Kuzushima for “Weathering with You” fans. We comprehensively explain all necessary information for visiting the actual filming locations, access methods, efficient pilgrimage routes, and accommodation information.
About Kuzushima | The Remote Island of Tokyo That Became the Setting for “Weathering with You”
Basic Information About Kuzushima
Kuzushima is a volcanic island with an area of approximately 18.87 km² located about 180 km south of Tokyo, near the center of the Izu Islands. Despite being a small island with a population of about 1,800, it is known for its beautiful sea with transparency once selected as Japan’s best, and abundant spring water.
Administratively, it belongs to Tokyo Kuzushima Village and is officially part of “Tokyo.” The scene in the film where Hodaka boards a ship saying “I’m going to Tokyo” represents a transfer within the same Tokyo administrative region.
The Relationship Between “Weathering with You” and Kuzushima
When the preview before the film’s release showed “Sarvia Maru No. 2” and a ship fare memo, people in Izu Islands circles discussed “which island is the setting.” After the film’s release in July 2019, it was revealed that Hodaka’s hometown was Kuzushima, and the island suddenly attracted considerable attention.
Director Makoto Shinkai conducted actual location scouting on Kuzushima during the production of this work. He carefully researched the island’s landscapes and atmosphere and reflected them in the film. The locations appearing in the movie are faithfully depicted as real spots, creating an ideal environment for sacred site pilgrimage.
Detailed Access Guide to Kuzushima
Ferry Service from Takeshiba Passenger Terminal
The main access to Kuzushima is by ferry from Tokyo’s Takeshiba Pier (Takeshiba Passenger Terminal). This is the location where an important scene of Hodaka boarding a ship appears in the film, and it is also the starting point for sacred site pilgrimage.
Large Passenger Ships (Sarvia Maru, Tachibana Maru)
- Travel time: Approximately 10 hours
- Operation: Departs around 22:00 at night, arrives the next morning
- Fares: 2nd class Japanese-style room approximately ¥5,000~, Special/1st class approximately ¥15,000~25,000
- Features: Overnight stay on ship saves accommodation costs. The view of passing under Rainbow Bridge from inside the ship also allows you to re-experience scenes from the movie
High-Speed Jet Ferry (Seven Island)
- Travel time: Approximately 3 hours 45 minutes
- Operation: Daily in summer, approximately 3-4 times per week in winter
- Fares: Approximately ¥9,000~10,000
- Features: Day trips are possible, but overnight accommodation is recommended for sacred site pilgrimage
The “Sarvia Maru No. 2” that Hodaka rode in the film (retired in 2020) is no longer in service, but the “Sarvia Maru No. 3” currently operates. The atmosphere inside the ship evokes the scenes depicted in the film.
Air Route from Chofu Airport
New Central Aviation Small Propeller Aircraft
- Travel time: Approximately 40 minutes
- Operation: 1-2 flights per day (subject to cancellation due to weather)
- Fares: One way approximately ¥14,000
- Capacity: Small aircraft with 19 seats
- Reservations: Early booking is essential
Since weather impacts are significant, ferry service is recommended if you need reliability.
Access Notes
- Cancellations due to weather: Particularly in winter, seas are rough and both ferry and air routes may be cancelled
- Importance of reservations: Summer, Golden Week, and Obon periods are crowded, so early reservations are essential
- Securing round-trip travel: We strongly recommend pre-booking your return journey as well
- Checking operational status: Check the latest information on Tokai Kisen’s official website or by phone
Complete Guide to Sacred Site Pilgrimage Spots in Kuzushima
1. Tokyo Metropolitan Kuzushima High School
Scenes in the Movie
The exterior of the high school where Hodaka studied appears in the opening graduation ceremony scene of the film. Scenes of Hodaka in uniform conversing with junior students and the distinctive building structure are impressively depicted.
Actual Location
Tokyo Metropolitan Kuzushima High School is the only high school on the island, located in the central area. It is a small school with one class per grade, serving the island’s children and deeply rooted in the local community.
- Address: 904 Kuzushima, Kuzushima Village, Tokyo
- Access: Approximately 15-minute walk from Kuzushima Port, or by village bus
- Photography tips: Since the school is an educational facility, avoid entering the grounds and photograph the exterior only from public roads
Sacred Site Pilgrimage Notes
Care must be taken, especially on weekdays, not to interfere with school lessons and events. Photograph only from public roads and avoid loud voices or extended stays, respecting proper manners.
2. Haruka Observation Deck
Scenes in the Movie
This is an important spot appearing in scenes where Hodaka overlooks the island. The spectacular panoramic view of the entire island and blue sea is beautifully depicted in the film.
Actual Location
Located on a high plateau in the northwestern part of Kuzushima at approximately 100 meters elevation, the observation deck is situated near the entrance of the Tenjyo Mountain hiking trail. It offers a panoramic view of Kuzushima Port, settlements, and surrounding sea, and is loved by islanders as a spectacular spot.
- Access: Approximately 10 minutes by car from Kuzushima Port, approximately 30 minutes on foot
- Parking: Available (free)
- Highlights: On clear days, Mount Fuji, the Izu Peninsula, and surrounding islands can be seen
Best Timing for Photography
Morning to early afternoon provides ideal lighting for beautiful photos. Evening becomes backlit, but sunset silhouette photography is also attractive. To recreate the film’s scenes, a sunny daytime visit is recommended.
3. Takouwan (多幸湾) / Miura Port
Scenes in the Movie
Appears as the scenery of Kuzushima’s port. Used in scenes before Hodaka boards the ship and in scenes depicting the island’s daily life.
Actual Location
A quiet inlet on the southeastern part of Kuzushima, once a major port. It currently functions as a fishing port with a peaceful fishing village landscape.
- Access: Approximately 15 minutes by car from Kuzushima Port, also accessible by rental bicycle
- Features: Calm waves and transparent seawater, fishing boats moored in the harbor
Nearby Attractions
Around Takouwan Bay is the “Akasaki Promenade,” a wooden boardwalk set in the sea, allowing you to enjoy the crystal-clear water up close. It is worth visiting as part of your sacred site pilgrimage.
4. Road Leading to Senryouike
Scenes in the Movie
Appears as a naturally rich road landscape on the island. Scenes of walking through verdant surroundings are impressive.
Actual Location
Senryouike is a natural pond in the southern part of Kuzushima, and the road leading there is a quiet walking path surrounded by trees.
- Access: Approximately 20 minutes by car from Kuzushima Port, approximately 1 hour on foot
- Features: A peaceful path where you can feel the island’s nature
Hiking Tips
The area around Senryouike is rich in nature, making it suitable for birdwatching and plant observation. Taking a leisurely stroll while recalling scenes from the movie is recommended.
5. Gazebo Above Maehama Beach Swimming Area
Scenes in the Movie
The beach scenery and the gazebo appear in the film.
Actual Location
Maehama Beach, close to the center of Kuzushima, is popular with both islanders and tourists. The gazebo above it offers a panoramic view of the entire beach.
- Access: Approximately 10-minute walk from Kuzushima Port
- Features: White sandy beach and highly transparent seawater; crowded with swimmers in summer
Appeal as a Photography Spot
From the gazebo, you can overlook the entire Maehama Beach, making it easy to recreate scenes from the film. A beautiful sunset can also be enjoyed in the evening.
6. Kuzushima Port and Surroundings
Scenes in the Movie
The port exterior appears in scenes when Hodaka leaves the island.
Actual Location
Kuzushima Port is currently the gateway to the island, where large passenger ships and jet ferries depart and arrive.
- Facilities: Waiting room, shops, tourist information center
- Features: The area bustles with islanders and tourists when ships arrive
Starting Point for Sacred Site Pilgrimage
This is where most pilgrims first set foot on the island, and rental cars and rental bicycles can be arranged here. Visitors can also obtain maps and pamphlets of the island at the tourist information center.
Efficient Sacred Site Pilgrimage Model Courses
Day-Trip Course (Using Jet Ferry)
8:00 Depart Takeshiba Pier (high-speed jet ferry)
11:45 Arrive at Kuzushima Port
12:00-13:00 Lunch around port, arrange rental bicycle
13:00-14:00 View Tokyo Metropolitan Kuzushima High School exterior
14:00-15:00 Maehama Beach and gazebo
15:00-16:00 Haruka Observation Deck
16:00-17:00 Takouwan / Miura Port
17:30 Return to Kuzushima Port, return rental bicycle
18:15 Depart Kuzushima Port (high-speed jet ferry)
22:00 Arrive at Takeshiba Pier
Day-Trip Notes
With limited time, pilgrimage covers only major spots. Weather-related cancellation risks are also present, making schedules with flexibility important.
1-Night-2-Day Course (Using Large Ferry – Recommended)
[Day 1]
22:30 Depart Takeshiba Pier (large ferry – overnight service)
- Experience passing under Rainbow Bridge from inside the ship
- Overnight stay on ship (recreating the movie’s atmosphere)
[Day 2]
8:30 Arrive at Kuzushima Port
9:00-10:00 Check in at accommodation, breakfast
10:00-11:00 Tokyo Metropolitan Kuzushima High School exterior
11:00-12:00 Maehama Beach and gazebo
12:00-13:00 Lunch
13:00-14:30 Haruka Observation Deck (leisurely enjoy the scenery)
14:30-16:00 Takouwan / Miura Port, Akasaki Promenade
16:00-17:30 Road leading to Senryouike
18:00- Hot spring, dinner, enjoy the island’s evening
[Day 3]
9:00-11:00 Tenjyo Mountain hiking or other tourist spots
11:00-12:00 Lunch, souvenir shopping
13:00 Depart Kuzushima Port (large ferry)
23:00 Arrive at Takeshiba Pier
Advantages of 1-Night-2-Day Course
You can visit each spot leisurely, and can also enjoy the island’s nature, hot springs, and starry sky. This recommended course allows for a deeper experience of the film’s worldview.
Transportation Methods in Kuzushima
Rental Cars
- Fares: Approximately ¥5,000~8,000 per day
- Advantages: Can visit spots efficiently, luggage transport is easy, less affected by weather
- Reservations: Early booking is essential during peak seasons
- Notes: Only one gas station on the island; pay attention to operating hours
Rental Bicycles
- Fares: Approximately ¥1,000~2,000 per day
- Advantages: Easy to rent, environmentally friendly, enjoy the island breeze
- Notes: Some areas have steep slopes requiring physical stamina; electric-assist bicycles are recommended
Village Bus
- Fares: Approximately ¥200 per trip
- Service: Few buses, making advance timetable confirmation essential
- Advantages: Low cost
On Foot
Major spots are within walking distance of the port, but spots like Haruka Observation Deck and Takouwan are distant, making combination with other transportation methods recommended.
Accommodation Information in Kuzushima
Minshuku (Private Lodges) and Pensions
The island has about 30 accommodations, most of which are family-run minshuku with a warm atmosphere.
Price Range
- 1 night with 2 meals: Approximately ¥7,000~10,000
- Room only: Approximately ¥5,000~7,000
Recommended Points
- Cuisine featuring fresh seafood from the island
- Friendly atmosphere with opportunities to interact with islanders
- Some accommodations are knowledgeable about sacred site pilgrimage information
Representative Accommodations
- Shimayado Hamano Ie: Near the port, convenient for sightseeing, abundant sacred site pilgrimage information
- Many other minshuku and pensions scattered throughout
Reservation Notes
- Peak season (July-August, Golden Week, Obon): Reservations recommended 2-3 months in advance
- Regular season: Availability often found with one month’s advance notice
- Contact methods: Phone reservations are reliable for many accommodations
Campgrounds
- Sawajiri Bay Campground: Free, requires reservation
- Takouwan Family Campground: Paid, well-equipped facilities
Tourism Information and Nearby Spots in Kuzushima
Tenjyo Mountain
The highest peak of Kuzushima at 572 meters elevation. Multiple pools including “Heavenly Pool” near the summit create a mystical landscape. Hiking requires approximately 4-5 hours round trip.
Hot Springs
Kuzushima Hot Spring Relaxation Center
- Admission: Adults ¥300
- Operating hours: 10:00~21:00 (varies by season)
- Spring quality: Sodium chloride hot spring
- Features: Outdoor bath with ocean views
Stargazing
Kuzushima, despite being within Tokyo, has minimal light pollution and offers a starry sky. This connects with the “weather” theme of “Weathering with You,” allowing you to experience the beauty of nature.
Diving and Snorkeling
The highly transparent sea offers exceptional underwater scenery. Many diving shops offer tours combining sacred site pilgrimage activities.
Notes and Etiquette for Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Basic Manners
- No trespassing on private property: Avoid photographing from places other than public roads, such as schools and residences
- Noise consideration: Respect the island’s quiet environment and avoid loud voices and noise
- Take trash with you: Always take trash with you to protect the island’s beautiful nature
- Consideration for residents: Remember this is a living community, not just a tourist destination
- Photography permissions: Always obtain permission before photographing people or shops
Weather and Clothing
- Summer (July-September): Strong sunlight requires hat and sunscreen. Swimming is also possible
- Spring and autumn (April-June, October-November): Pleasant weather; light jacket recommended for security
- Winter (December-March): Strong winds and cold temperatures require winter clothing. Seas are rough with frequent cancellations
Packing Checklist
- Camera / smartphone (charger included)
- Comfortable shoes (sneakers recommended)
- Drinks (vending machines are limited)
- Sunscreen, hat
- Rain gear (weather changes easily)
- Cash (many shops don’t accept credit cards)
- Motion sickness prevention (seasickness medicine)
The Charm of “Weathering with You” and Kuzushima
The Island’s Essence as Depicted in the Film
Director Makoto Shinkai depicted Kuzushima as the origin of protagonist Hodaka. The conflict of a young man departing from a small island to the metropolis of Tokyo, complex feelings about his hometown, and the island’s beautiful and harsh nature become important themes in the film.
Actually visiting Kuzushima allows you to feel not just the landscapes depicted in the film, but also the warmth of islanders, abundant nature, transparent sea, and a flow of time completely different from the urban world, despite being within Tokyo.
Experience Beyond Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Pilgrimage to the sacred sites of “Weathering with You” is not merely reexperiencing scenes from the film. It is a journey to feel the environment where Hodaka was born and raised, understand why he longed for Tokyo, and comprehend what he treasured about the island.
Since the film’s release, the number of fans visiting Kuzushima has increased, and the island welcomes sacred site pilgrims. However, an attitude respecting the island’s daily life and protecting the natural environment while enjoying it is required.
Conclusion: Making Your Kuzushima Sacred Site Pilgrimage the Best Experience
Despite being approximately 180 km from Tokyo, Kuzushima, the sacred site of “Weathering with You,” is an island where abundant nature and quiet time flow differently from the urban world. Visiting actual locations featured in the film, such as Tokyo Metropolitan Kuzushima High School, Haruka Observation Deck, and Takouwan, deepens understanding of the work.
When planning a sacred site pilgrimage, keep these points in mind:
- Access: Book ferry service from Takeshiba Pier early (especially during peak seasons)
- Accommodation: Recommend staying one or more nights for leisurely pilgrimage
- Transportation: Rental cars or electric-assist bicycles are most efficient
- Weather confirmation: Plan flexible schedules considering cancellation risks
- Etiquette compliance: Prioritize consideration for residents and natural environment protection
Sacred site pilgrimage in Kuzushima will become a journey not only to reexperience the film’s world but also to discover the island’s natural attractions, hot springs, starry sky, and seafood delicacies. Viewing the beautiful landscapes depicted by director Makoto Shinkai in person and contemplating Hodaka’s emotions will surely be a special time.
For fans of the film “Weathering with You,” Kuzushima is a sacred site worth visiting at least once. We hope this article helps make your sacred site pilgrimage the best possible experience.
