【Himi City Shiokaze Gallery】 Toyama Prefecture
Himi City in Toyama Prefecture is known as the hometown of Fujiko A. Fujio, a master of the manga world. The central facility, Himi City Shiokaze Gallery (Fujiko A. Fujio Art Collection), was selected as one of the “88 Japanese Anime Sacred Sites Worth Visiting” by the Anime Tourism Association in 2017, and has become a sacred pilgrimage spot visited by fans across the country. This article introduces the appeal of this facility in full.
What is Himi City Shiokaze Gallery? The Dissemination Base of the Fujiko A. Fujio World
Himi City Shiokaze Gallery is a cultural facility that reopened as the “Fujiko A. Fujio Art Collection” in Heisei 27 (2015), where visitors can experience the world of works by Fujiko A. Sensei. As the core of “Himi City Fujiko A. Fujio Manga World,” it has become a representative tourist spot in Himi, along with character statues and monuments deployed throughout the city.
Significance of Anime Sacred Site 88 Designation
On July 9, 2018, an official certification plaque was awarded by the General Incorporated Association Anime Tourism Association. In Toyama Prefecture, three locations were selected along with Kamiichi Town (the film “Wolf Children Ame and Yuki”) and Nanto City (TV anime “true tears”), but as an exhibition facility, Shiokaze Gallery is the only sacred site designation, proving its high value.
Master from Himi City: Fujiko A. Fujio Sensei
Fujiko A. Fujio (real name: Motoo Abiko) Sensei was born in Himi City in 1934 and produced numerous masterpieces including “Ninja Hattori-kun,” “Monster-kun,” “Pro Golfer Saru,” and “Laughing Salesman.” He spent his youth at the legendary Tokiwa-so apartment in Tokyo alongside Osamu Tezuka and other greats, becoming a legendary figure who built Japanese manga culture.
First Floor Attractions | Immerse Yourself in the Fujiko A. World
Original and Reproduction Artwork Displays of Representative Works
On the first floor main area, numerous original and reproduction artworks from Fujiko A. Sensei’s representative works such as “Ninja Hattori-kun” and “Monster-kun” are displayed. Visitors can see actual pen strokes and detailed work up close, offering a rare opportunity to feel professional technique and passion firsthand.
The displayed works are rotated periodically, so there are always new discoveries with each visit. You can observe the delicate lines of the original artwork and traces of corrections, glimpsing behind-the-scenes manga production.
Monster-kun Welcomes You | The Entrance Filled with Characters
At the gallery entrance, a large three-dimensional Monster-kun statue welcomes visitors. Familiar characters such as Franken, Dracula, and Werewolf are also positioned there, making it a popular photo spot. From the entrance onward, the space is designed to immerse visitors in the Fujiko A. world, naturally bringing smiles to faces from children to adults.
Himi-Depicted Works Corner
A corner displaying reproduction artworks and explanatory materials of comic essays where Fujiko A. Sensei depicted his hometown of Himi is a special space unique to the local area. The sensei’s feelings toward Himi and memories from his childhood are embedded in his works, allowing visitors to experience the touching overlap of Himi’s scenery with the work’s world.
Learning how Himi’s sea, mountains, and townscape are depicted in the works makes the sacred pilgrimage through the city even more enjoyable.
Reconstructed “Tokiwa-so Room 14”
One of the first floor’s centerpiece displays is a reconstruction corner of the legendary apartment “Tokiwa-so Room 14,” where Fujiko A. Sensei spent his youth. A four-and-a-half tatami mat room from the 1950s is faithfully recreated, with period furnishings, desk, bookcases, and other items arranged throughout.
This invaluable corner allows visitors to experience the legendary space where young men who would become Japan’s representative manga artists—Osamu Tezuka, Shōtarō Ishinomori, Fujio Akatsuka, and others—competed and improved their craft. You can sense the passion of these young manga artists dedicated to their work in that small room.
Fujiko A. Studio | Character Goods Sales Corner
On the first floor, there is a goods sales corner called the “Fujiko A. Studio,” where Himi City-exclusive character merchandise available nowhere else is abundantly available. Hattori-kun and Monster-kun plushies, stationery, candies, T-shirts, and other items perfect as souvenirs for sacred pilgrimage are sold in great variety.
Selecting souvenirs is part of the fun, and attractive products that fans will want to purchase are plentiful.
Second Floor Appeal | Digital Technology and Manga Library
Digital Manga Screen | Enter the Work’s World with Cutting-Edge Technology
On the second floor, a “Fujiko A. Fujio Digital Manga Screen” utilizing the latest digital technology is installed. When visitors stand in front of the screen, they may see themselves transformed into Ninja Hattori-kun, or surprising characters may pop out on the dark screen when directed with a camera flash, allowing for an interactive experience.
This experiential exhibit is particularly popular with children, allowing visitors to feel as though they’ve entered the manga world. Photography is also possible, making it ideal for creating SNS-worthy memories.
Manga Library with 1,000 Books | A Space to Read Works Thoroughly
The “Manga Library” on the second floor houses approximately 1,000 comic books by Fujiko A. Sensei, available for free browsing. From representative works to hidden masterpieces, visitors can slowly read through the sensei’s vast collection of works in this luxurious space.
Chairs and sofas are provided, allowing visitors to lose themselves in the work’s world. Many parent-child pairs can be seen enjoying together, making it a place where the appeal of works beloved across generations can be experienced.
Workshop Space
The second floor also has space where workshops and events are held periodically, with manga classes and character craft activities taking place. Checking the official website for event information before your visit will result in a more fulfilling experience.
Basic Information | Hours, Fees, and Access
Facility Overview
Facility Name: Himi City Shiokaze Gallery (Fujiko A. Fujio Art Collection)
Address: 〒935-0011 Toyama Prefecture, Himi City, Chuo Town 3-4
Phone Number: 0766-72-4800
Hours of Operation and Closure Days
Hours: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (admission until 4:30 PM)
Closure Days:
- Every Monday (next business day if Monday is a holiday)
- Year-end and New Year holidays (December 29 – January 3)
- Other temporary closures during exhibition changes
*Please confirm the latest operating information in advance via the official website or by phone.*
Admission Fees
Standard Admission:
- Adults: 200 yen
- High school students and under: Free
Discounts:
- Disability certificate holders and one caregiver: Free
- Groups of 20 or more: 160 yen (adults only)
The fact that high school students and younger are admitted free reflects Himi City’s desire to pass on manga culture to younger generations. The pricing makes it easy for families to visit.
Access
By Train and Bus:
- Get off at “Himi Station” on the JR Himi Line
- Take the Himi City center loop bus or Kaetsu Nō bus for approximately 6 minutes
- Get off at “Himi Chuo” bus stop, then walk nearby
By Car:
- Approximately 10 minutes from “Himi IC” on the Nōetsu Expressway
- Approximately 30 minutes from “Takaoka IC” on the Hokuriku Expressway
By Foot:
- Approximately 10 minutes on foot from the Michi no Eki (roadside station) “Himi Himibanya-gai”
- Approximately 20 minutes on foot from JR Himi Station
Parking Information
Dedicated Parking: Available (free)
Capacity: Approximately 20 regular vehicles
Notes: During busy seasons and weekends, nearby public parking facilities (paid) are also available. Early arrival is recommended during peak tourist seasons and weekends.
Nearby Sacred Pilgrimage Spots | Fully Enjoy Himi Manga World
Character Statues and Monuments in Himi City
More than 30 character statues and monuments by Fujiko A. Sensei are installed throughout Himi City, making the entire town a “Manga World.”
Major Spots:
- JR Himi Station: Bronze statue of Ninja Hattori-kun
- Manga Road: Various character statues scattered throughout the shopping street
- Along Minato River: Statues of the Monster-kun family
- Bimi no E Park: Statue of Pro Golfer Saru
It’s recommended to obtain a map at Shiokaze Gallery and tour the city in stamp rally format.
Himi Banya-gai
Located a 10-minute walk from Shiokaze Gallery, “Himi Banya-gai” is a roadside station where you can enjoy Himi’s seafood. It features fresh seafood sales, rotating sushi, hot spring facilities, and more, allowing you to fully enjoy Himi tourism along with sacred pilgrimage.
Himi City Seaside Botanical Garden
Positioned along the coast, the botanical garden offers views of flowers throughout the seasons and spectacular views of Toyama Bay. It’s approximately 15 minutes by car from Shiokaze Gallery.
Tips for Enjoying Your Sacred Pilgrimage More
Recommended Visiting Seasons
Spring (April–May): Cherry blossom season with beautiful Himi scenery and mild weather
Summer (July–August): Many events like the Himi Gion Festival with a lively atmosphere
Autumn (October–November): Premium cold yellowtail season with the finest seafood
Winter (December–February): Experience winter delicacies in Himi, though watch the weather
Estimated Visit Duration
- Gallery only: 1–2 hours
- Including character statue tour: 3–4 hours
- Full-day course with surrounding tourism: 5–6 hours
Those wishing to thoroughly read works in the manga library should plan with extra time.
Photography Etiquette
Photography is permitted in most areas of the gallery, with the following precautions:
- Do not use flash in areas marked with “no flash photography” signs
- Pay special attention in original artwork display areas
- Do not interfere with other visitors’ viewing
- Exercise caution regarding copyright when posting to SNS
Discount Pass Information
Himi City occasionally issues discount passes and coupons for touring tourist facilities. Check the latest information at the Himi City Tourism Association or station information office.
Model Course | Enjoy Himi Sacred Pilgrimage in One Day
【Morning】Manga World Enjoyment Course
9:30 Arrive at JR Himi Station, take commemorative photo at the station plaza Hattori-kun statue
10:00 Enter Himi City Shiokaze Gallery at opening, thoroughly view first floor original artwork displays
11:00 Read works in the second floor manga library, experience the digital manga screen
12:00 Purchase souvenirs at the goods shop
【Afternoon】Himi Gourmet & Street Walk Course
12:30 Himi seafood lunch at Himi Banya-gai (Himi udon, rotating sushi, etc.)
14:00 Tour character statues on Manga Road, participate in stamp rally
15:30 Enjoy Toyama Bay scenery at Bimi no E Park
16:30 Relax in hot springs (hot spring facilities at Himi Banya-gai, etc.)
18:00 Depart from Himi Station
This course allows you to efficiently enjoy both sacred pilgrimage and Himi tourism.
Visitor Feedback | Impressions from Actual Sacred Pilgrims
“I was overwhelmed by the power of the original artworks. The reconstructed Tokiwa-so corner was deeply moving, conveying the passion of young Fujiko Sensei and his contemporaries” (30s male)
“My child was captivated by the digital manga screen and experienced it multiple times. The manga library was well-stocked, and our whole family enjoyed it” (40s female)
“As befits a site selected as one of the anime sacred sites 88, this is an unmissable facility for fans. The Himi-exclusive merchandise was excellent and made for great souvenirs” (20s male)
“I’m grateful that admission is free for high school students and younger. I was able to visit easily with my three children. The character statue tour throughout the city was also enjoyable” (30s female)
Summary | Experience Fujiko A. World Sacred Pilgrimage at Himi City Shiokaze Gallery
Himi City Shiokaze Gallery (Fujiko A. Fujio Art Collection) is a sacred site representing Toyama Prefecture where visitors can experience the world of works by Fujiko A. Fujio, a master of the manga world. With diverse content including original artwork displays, reconstructed Tokiwa-so, digital manga screens, and a 1,000-book manga library, it is enjoyable for everyone from children to adults.
At this valuable facility designated as one of the “88 Japanese Anime Sacred Sites Worth Visiting,” combined with touring character statues scattered throughout Himi City, you can truly immerse yourself in the “Manga World.” The facility’s kind admission pricing with free entry for high school students and younger is also appealing.
Himi’s beautiful nature, delicious seafood, and the warm world of Fujiko A. Sensei’s works. With these three elements combined in Himi City, why not create special sacred pilgrimage memories? Check the official website before your visit and plan an enriching trip.
Shiokaze Gallery is a must-see sacred site for fans, made possible only because it is in Himi, Fujiko A. Fujio Sensei’s hometown. Please visit and enjoy the luxurious time immersed in the manga world.
