Free! and the Special Relationship with Iwami Town, Tottori Prefecture
“Free!” a popular competitive swimming anime produced by Kyoto Animation, adopted Iwami Town in Tottori Prefecture as a location reference, and the series depicts beautiful coastlines and townscapes as the setting of the work. More than 10 years have passed since the first season began airing in 2013, and even now, Iwami Town continues to be loved as a special sacred site by “Free!” fans.
Iwami Town is a picturesque town that forms part of the Sanin Kaigan Geopark, and the Uradome Coastline featured in the anime is known as one of Japan’s most transparent seas. The places that became models for Iwatobi High School, which the protagonist Haruka Nanase and others attend, and the scenery where the characters spend their daily lives actually exist throughout the town, making it a precious place where fans can experience the world of the work.
About the Anime “Free!” Series
“Free!” is a youth swimming anime produced by Kyoto Animation that depicts the growth and friendship of high school swimmers such as Haruka Nanase, Makoto Tachibana, and Rin Matsuoka. Starting with the television anime first season “Free!” in 2013, it continued with “Free! -Eternal Summer-” and “Free! -Dive to the Future-“, and concluded with the theatrical film “Free! -the Final Stroke-“. The beautiful expression of water, delicate character depiction, and the actual scenery of Iwami Town in Tottori Prefecture add depth to the work.
With related book sales exceeding several million copies in total series sales and multiple theatrical releases, it has become a social phenomenon, and Iwami Town has become a tourist destination visited by many fans from around the world as a sacred site for “Free!”.
Major Sacred Site Pilgrimage Spots in Iwami Town
JR Iwami Station
JR Iwami Station, the gateway to Iwami Town sightseeing, is an important location that appears multiple times in the anime as the nearest station to Haruka Nanase and the others. The exterior of the station building, the station plaza, and the surrounding scenery are faithfully reproduced in the anime, making it an ideal first destination for sacred site pilgrimages.
“Free!” related panels and decorations are installed inside the station and in front of the station, allowing you to take commemorative photos standing in the same places as the characters. At the station’s tourist information office, you can also obtain sacred site maps created by the Iwami Town Tourism Association and information on related goods, so use it as a pilgrimage base.
Access Information
- Direct access from “Iwami Station” on the JR Sanin Main Line
- Approximately 20 minutes by local train from Tottori Station
Uradome Coastline
The Uradome Coastline, a symbolic place in “Free!”, is a scenic spot representing the Sanin Kaigan Geopark. The emerald green sea boasting a transparency of 25 meters and the coastline lined with strange rocks and sea caves appear as the background in scenes where characters swim in the anime.
By taking the Uradome Kaigan Island Tour Boat, you can view the scenery that appears in the anime from the sea, allowing you to experience the world of the work more deeply. During the summer season, you can also enjoy swimming in the sea, making it possible to have the special experience of swimming in the same sea as the “Free!” characters.
Uradome Coastline Sightseeing Boat Information
- Operating period: Mid-March to late November
- Duration: Approximately 40 minutes
- Fare: Adults 1,500 yen, Children 750 yen
- Business hours: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM (varies by season)
- Location: Uradome, Iwami Town, Iwami District, Tottori Prefecture
Ajiro Port and Harbor Café Area
Ajiro Port is the model for a port that appears in the anime, with the fishing village landscape and breakwater depicted directly in the work. The nearby Harbor Café has become a popular rest spot among fans, where you can enjoy local seafood dishes and café menus while overlooking the sea.
The area around the port retains the atmosphere of a quiet fishing village, allowing you to stroll slowly while recalling scenes from the anime. Early in the morning, you can also see fishing boats coming and going, making it a place where you can feel the daily life of Iwami Town.
Other Sacred Sites in Iwami Town
There are many other sacred sites scattered throughout Iwami Town:
- School vicinity area: Area surrounding the location that became the model for Iwatobi High School
- Shopping district: Setting for scenes where characters go shopping
- Roads along the coast: Appearing in scenes of cycling to school
- Municipal swimming pool: Reference location for swimming club practice scenes
Using the official sacred site map issued by the Iwami Town Tourism Association, you can efficiently visit major spots.
Free! × Iwami Town Official Event Information
“Free! × Iwami Town -Starting point for a New Journey-” Held on May 25, 2025
On May 25, 2025 (Sunday), Iwami Town will hold its first official collaboration event with the “Free!” series. This event is a special project commemorating the conclusion of “Free! -the Final Stroke-” and celebrating the 10th anniversary of the series.
Event Overview
- Event date: Sunday, May 25, 2025
- Event time: Starting from 9:00 AM
- Event location: Various locations throughout Iwami Town, Tottori Prefecture
- Organizers: Iwami Town, Iwami Town Tourism Association, Kyoto Animation
Main Contents of the Event
Special Commemorative Illustration for “Free!” Series 10th Anniversary and Iwami Town Limited Original Visual
A special original visual drawn by Kyoto Animation for Iwami Town has been created. Featuring Haruka Nanase and other characters depicted within Iwami Town’s scenery, this special illustration will be featured at event venues and in related merchandise. This original visual can only be seen in Iwami Town, making it essential content for fans.
Debut! AR Content for Commemorative Photos with Characters
At five locations within Iwami Town, AR content spots have been set up where you can take commemorative photos with characters using your smartphone. Characters appear against the actual sacred site background, making it possible to take photos as if they are standing with you in that location.
AR Installation Locations (planned)
- JR Iwami Station Plaza
- Uradome Coastline Viewing Spot
- Ajiro Port Area
- Town Shopping District Area
- Iwami Town Tourism Association Area
Different characters appear at each spot, so a stamp rally style approach to visiting all locations is also available.
Original Postcard Gift with Accommodation and Dining Facility Use in Town
Guests who stay at cooperating accommodation facilities or dine at cooperating restaurants during the event period will receive a limited design original postcard. The postcards using the original visual are limited in quantity and will end once supplies are exhausted.
Coordination with Free! Series Orchestra Concert 2025
In May 2025, “Free! Series Orchestra Concert 2025” will also be held in coordination with the Iwami Town event. Voice actor Nobunaga Shimazaki (voice of Haruka Nanase) has been confirmed to appear, and special tours combining both events are being planned.
Iwami Town Limited Merchandise and Souvenir Information
Official Collaboration Merchandise
Multiple “Free!” official collaboration merchandise items are sold in Iwami Town. Merchandise using limited original illustrations supervised by Kyoto Animation are valuable items that can only be obtained in Iwami Town.
Main Limited Merchandise
- Clear files using original illustrations
- Character-specific acrylic stands (Iwami Town version)
- Original design T-shirts
- Towels featuring the Uradome Coastline motif
- Iwami Town limited postcard sets
- Character design tote bags
- Badges and key chains, etc.
Merchandise Sales Locations
Santec Co., Ltd.
A store in Iwami Town that specializes in “Free!” related merchandise. It also plans and sells original products, and the latest merchandise information can be obtained here.
- Address: Uradome, Iwami Town, Iwami District, Tottori Prefecture
- Business hours: Vary by store, advance confirmation recommended
- Products handled: Official merchandise, original products, local specialty collaboration products
Iwami Town Tourism Association
At the tourism association near JR Iwami Station, you can also obtain some “Free!” related merchandise and sacred site maps. Latest event information is provided along with tourism information.
Local Specialty Collaboration Products
Collaboration products between “Free!” and local specialties such as seafood and sweets are also popular:
- “Free!” packaged Iwami Town local seafood (dried fish, seaweed, etc.)
- Character design local sake labels
- Limited package confectioneries
- Seasonings using Uradome Coastline salt
These products are not only appreciated as souvenirs but also serve to convey the charm of Iwami Town.
Access Methods to Iwami Town
Access by Train
From Tokyo
- Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Okayama Station (approximately 3 hours 20 minutes)
- Limited express Super Inaba from Okayama Station to Tottori Station (approximately 2 hours)
- Local train on JR Sanin Main Line from Tottori Station to Iwami Station (approximately 20 minutes)
From Osaka
- Limited express Super Hakuto from Osaka Station to Tottori Station (approximately 2 hours 30 minutes)
- Local train on JR Sanin Main Line from Tottori Station to Iwami Station (approximately 20 minutes)
From Hiroshima
- Shinkansen from Hiroshima Station to Okayama Station (approximately 40 minutes)
- Limited express Super Inaba from Okayama Station to Tottori Station (approximately 2 hours)
- Local train on JR Sanin Main Line from Tottori Station to Iwami Station (approximately 20 minutes)
Access by Airplane
Using Tottori Sakyu Conan Airport
- Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes from Tokyo (Haneda)
- Bus from airport to Tottori Station approximately 20 minutes
- Train from Tottori Station to Iwami Station approximately 20 minutes
Access by Car
From Osaka
- Via Chugoku Expressway and Tottori Expressway approximately 3 hours
- From Tottori IC via National Route 9 to Iwami Town approximately 30 minutes
From Okayama
- Via Okayama Expressway and Tottori Expressway approximately 2 hours 30 minutes
Transportation Within Town
Scheduled Bus Service
Routes operated by Nikkō Bus run through Iwami Town, providing access to major sacred site spots. However, since service frequency is limited, it is recommended to check the timetable in advance.
Rental Bicycles
Rental bicycles are available around JR Iwami Station. You can tour the town by bicycle just like the anime characters, making it the perfect way to visit sacred sites.
- Rate: Approximately 500 to 1,000 yen per day
- Rental location: Iwami Station Plaza Tourist Information Office, etc.
- Reservation: Advance reservation recommended during peak seasons
Taxi
If you want to efficiently visit many spots, consider using taxis. Some local taxi companies have drivers familiar with “Free!” sacred site pilgrimage courses.
Free! Wrapped Bus
During the event period, wrapped buses designed with “Free!” characters may operate. The in-vehicle announcements feature voice actors in a special format, making the journey itself an enjoyable experience.
Accommodation and Dining Information in Iwami Town
Recommended Accommodation Facilities
Iwai Hot Spring Area
Adjacent to Iwami Town, Iwai Hot Spring is the oldest hot spring in the San’in region with a history of 1,300 years. It is ideal for relieving fatigue from sacred site pilgrimages, and many inns welcome “Free!” fans.
- Hot spring inn: 10,000 to 20,000 yen per night with two meals
- Minshuku: 7,000 to 12,000 yen per night with two meals
- Business hotel: 5,000 to 8,000 yen per night without meals
Minshuku Near Uradome Coastline
Minshuku (small inns) serving fresh seafood are scattered along the coast. Fishermen’s inns offer dishes prepared with freshly caught fish and shellfish.
Famous Cuisine of Iwami Town
Seafood Dishes
Located on the Sea of Japan, Iwami Town is famous for fresh seafood:
- Matsuba crab: Winter specialty (November to March)
- Iwami oysters: Summer specialty (June to August), large and flavorful
- White squid: Clear with high transparency and sweet taste
- Nodoguro: Fatty premium fish
- Seafood rice bowl: Lavishly prepared with local fish and shellfish
Cafés and Restaurants
Several cafés and restaurants, including Harbor Café, allow you to dine while overlooking the sea. Some establishments offer menus collaborating with “Free!”, so check before visiting.
Sacred Site Pilgrimage Precautions and Etiquette
Consideration for Local Residents
Iwami Town is a place where people actually live. When enjoying sacred site pilgrimages, please note the following points:
- Do not enter private property: Do not enter restricted areas such as schools or private homes
- Be mindful of noise: Avoid loud conversations and activities in residential areas early in the morning or late at night
- Always take trash with you: Cooperate in environmental conservation and keep the town clean
- Obey traffic rules: Be careful not to obstruct vehicles or pedestrians when taking photos on roads
- Confirm parking locations: Absolutely avoid parking on streets and use designated parking areas
Photo Taking Etiquette
Photo taking at sacred sites is free, but please follow these rules:
- Share spaces with other tourists and fans
- Be considerate if people appear in photos
- When using a tripod, do so in a location that does not obstruct passage
- Prohibition of commercial use or photography for resale purposes
- Be cautious about sharing location information on SNS posts
Prevention of Troubles Between Visitors
Many fans will visit during the event period:
- Follow the rules for waiting in line
- Comply with purchase limits for merchandise
- Avoid occupying AR photography spots for extended periods
- Interact with other fans with discretion
Notes on Facility Use
- Confirm business hours: Check business hours of each facility before visiting
- Check for closed days: Pay special attention to closed days, particularly for restaurants and shops
- Make advance reservations: Advance reservations are recommended for popular facilities
- Follow COVID-19 measures: Follow each facility’s guidelines
Continuation of Series 10th Anniversary Commemorative Project
The “Free!” series 10th anniversary commemorative project that started in 2023 will continue in 2025. Iwami Town plans to continue collaboration with “Free!” on a long-term basis, aiming to create a town where fans can discover something new with each visit.
Year-Round Enjoyable Projects
- Permanent exhibition spots: Character panels and memorial monuments at various locations throughout town
- Stamp rally: Stamp rally touring sacred sites is conducted year-round
- Regular updates of limited merchandise: New merchandise appears with each season
- Collaboration café menus: Special menu offerings at cooperating stores
Seasonal Events
Iwami Town plans “Free!” related events throughout the seasons:
- Spring: New life support campaign, special projects during cherry blossom season
- Summer: Beach opening events, summer vacation special projects
- Autumn: Sacred site pilgrimage tours during autumn foliage season
- Winter: Collaboration with crab season, year-end and New Year special projects
Summary: Iwami Town, an Essential Sacred Site for “Free!” Fans
Iwami Town in Tottori Prefecture is the only place where fans can actually experience the world of the “Free!” series. The beautiful scenery of Uradome Coastline, limited original visuals created by Kyoto Animation, official events, and the warm hospitality of the local community provide fans with an unforgettable experience.
The “Free! × Iwami Town -Starting point for a New Journey-” event held on May 25, 2025, is a special project commemorating the conclusion of the series, with unprecedented scale plans including AR experiences and coordination with orchestra concerts.
Starting from JR Iwami Station, visiting sacred sites throughout the town including Uradome Coastline and Ajiro Port, enjoying fresh seafood, and relaxing in hot springs. Such a fulfilling sacred site pilgrimage journey can be realized in Iwami Town. We encourage you to visit Iwami Town, where you can immerse yourself in the world of “Free!” while simultaneously enjoying the nature and culture of Tottori Prefecture.
Official information is regularly updated on the Iwami Town Tourism Association website and the “Free!” official site, so we recommend checking the latest information before your visit. Experience the beginning of a new journey in the same scenery as the characters.
