Introduction: “Zatsu Tabi” and the Charm of Toyama Prefecture
The TV anime “Zatsu Tabi -That’s Journey-” is an adaptation of the popular manga by Kentaro Ishizaka, a travel essay anime that depicts the protagonist Chika traveling around various parts of Japan on a whim. In the 2nd and 3rd journeys, Kurobe City in Toyama Prefecture becomes the stage, with many attractive tourist spots in Toyama Prefecture appearing, including the Kurobe Gorge, Unazuki Hot Spring, and the Ikuji coast.
The work also depicts realistic travel mishaps, such as an episode where Chika was unable to ride the Kurobe Gorge Trolley Train due to insufficient preparation, which paradoxically captures the hearts of fans. This article provides a detailed introduction to all the locations that appeared in Kurobe City, Toyama Prefecture, for fans of “Zatsu Tabi” who are on a pilgrimage to sacred sites.
Overview of “Zatsu Tabi” Toyama Edition
2nd Journey: Miyagi Prefecture & Toyama Prefecture
In the 2nd journey, the story moves from Miyagi Prefecture to Toyama Prefecture, and the narrative unfolds primarily in the Ikuji district of Kurobe City. The story follows Chika and her friend Koyomi visiting Toyama in search of fresh seafood and the magnificent views of the Tateyama mountain range.
3rd Journey: Toyama Prefecture & Kagawa Prefecture
In the 3rd journey, Chika visits Kurobe City in Toyama Prefecture again. This time, centered around Unazuki Hot Spring, she aims for a comeback ride on the Kurobe Gorge Railway trolley train. The picturesque scenery of the hot spring town and delicious local cuisine are depicted carefully in the work.
The Starting Point for Sacred Site Pilgrimage: Kurobe Unazuki Onsen Station
Station Characteristics and Access
Kurobe Unazuki Onsen Station is a stopping point on the Hokuriku Shinkansen that opened in 2015. Located in Kurobe City, Toyama Prefecture, it is accessible from Tokyo Station in about 2.5 hours by shinkansen. The work also depicts Chika arriving by shinkansen from Tokyo Station, making it an ideal starting point for a sacred site pilgrimage.
The station building features modern design and serves as the gateway to the Kurobe Gorge and Tateyama mountain range. There is also a tourist information office in the station, where you can obtain maps and pamphlets necessary for sacred site pilgrimage.
Attractions Around the Station
From the station plaza of Kurobe Unazuki Onsen Station, you can see the magnificent Tateyama mountain range on clear days. The work also includes a scene of this view moving viewers to tears. From the station to Unazuki Hot Spring town is about 10 minutes by car, and local buses also operate.
The station also includes a regional tourism gallery, which features information about Kurobe City’s tourism and displays of local specialties. It is recommended to stop by before your sacred site pilgrimage to preview the charm of the region.
Uohana Fish Station Ikuji and Its Surroundings
The Appeal of Uohana Fish Station Ikuji
“Uohana Fish Station Ikuji (Ikuji)” is a roadside station-like facility that sells fresh seafood caught in Toyama Bay. In the work, the impressive scene of Chika and Koyomi visiting and enjoying local delicious seafood is depicted.
The facility is well stocked with seafood unique to Toyama, such as white shrimp, called the jewel of Toyama Bay, and firefly squid, which reaches its peak season in early spring. A restaurant using fresh fish and shellfish is also attached, allowing you to enjoy local gourmet cuisine during your sacred site pilgrimage.
Strolling Through Ikuji Town
The Ikuji district is a port town that has thrived on fishing since ancient times, with “shimizu” (spring water spots) called “Shimizu” scattered throughout the town. In particular, “Iwase Family’s Shimizu” is famous and appears in the work as a beautiful spring. It has high transparency and is still used by local people as domestic water.
Walking through Ikuji town allows you to feel the atmosphere of an old-fashioned fishing village. The narrow alleys and remaining old buildings are exactly like the atmosphere of the work. Slowly walking and recalling scenes from the work is one of the joys of sacred site pilgrimage.
Face to Face with the Japan Sea! The Ikuji Coast
The Ikuji coast was the stage for the most impressive scene in the 2nd episode of “Zatsu Tabi.” The spectacular scenery created by the endless blue sea and the magnificent Tateyama mountain range rising behind it is breathtaking.
In the work, a scene of Chika arriving at the coast and being moved is depicted, and the beauty of this scenery became a topic among fans. When you actually visit, you can experience a sense of openness and the grandeur of nature beyond what you see in the work. On clear days, the mountains of the Tateyama range come into sharp focus, making it an ideal spot for photography.
A walking path is also developed along the coast, allowing you to enjoy exhilarating walks. The time spent walking in the sea breeze feels as refreshing as if your mind and body are being detoxified.
Shin Kurobe Station and Toyama Chiho Railway Main Line
The Role of Shin Kurobe Station
Shin Kurobe Station is a station on the Toyama Chiho Railway Main Line and an important transportation hub connecting Kurobe Unazuki Onsen Station and Unazuki Onsen. In the work, it is used when moving from the Ikuji district to Unazuki Hot Spring.
The area around the station is part of the local community, where you can see the everyday scenery of Toyama Prefecture different from tourist destinations. When using it as a means of transportation for sacred site pilgrimage, interaction with local people is also one of the pleasures.
Travel on Toyama Chiho Railway
The Toyama Chiho Railway Main Line is affectionately known as “Chiha” by locals. The journey from Shin Kurobe Station to Unazuki Onsen Station takes about 20 minutes. From the windows, you can enjoy the naturally rich scenery along the Kurobe River.
The work also depicts traveling on this line, allowing you to experience the atmosphere unique to local lines. On sacred site pilgrimage, traveling by the same route as the work will allow you to immerse yourself more deeply in the world of the work.
The Charm of Unazuki Hot Spring Town
The History and Characteristics of Unazuki Hot Spring
Unazuki Onsen is Toyama Prefecture’s largest hot spring area, spreading along the Kurobe River. It was opened in 1923 when it was sourced from Kurogane Hot Spring in connection with power generation development of the Kurobe River. It is also known as the “hot spring for beautiful skin,” and is characterized by transparent, silky-smooth weakly alkaline hot spring water.
Many inns and hotels line the hot spring town, serving as the gateway to the Kurobe Gorge and attracting many tourists annually. In the work, the picturesque scenery of the hot spring town and the way visitors enjoy hot spring hopping are depicted carefully.
Kurobe Gorge Railway Unazuki Station
Unazuki Station on the Kurobe Gorge Railway is one of the most important sacred sites in “Zatsu Tabi.” In the work, an episode is depicted where Chika is unable to ride the trolley train due to insufficient preparation, and the scene “I’ll definitely make a comeback next time!” remains in the hearts of fans.
Unazuki Station is the starting station for the Kurobe Gorge Trolley Train, and the station building itself is a charming structure. There is also a foot bath and hot spring facility in front of the station, allowing you to pleasantly spend the waiting time for the trolley train. When on sacred site pilgrimage, it is recommended to take the lesson from the work, confirm the operation status in advance, and make a reservation.
The trolley train operates seasonally from late April to late November, with closures during winter. The autumn foliage season from October to early November is particularly popular, making reservations difficult, so early planning is necessary.
Yumedo Unazuki
“Yumedo Unazuki” is a day-trip hot spring facility near Unazuki Onsen Station. It appears in the work, depicting Chika enjoying the hot spring.
The facility is located along the Kurobe River, and you can bathe in the outdoor bath while viewing the natural scenery of the Kurobe Gorge. It is an ideal place to heal the fatigue from walking during your sacred site pilgrimage, allowing you to easily enjoy the hot spring for beautiful skin. The facility is reasonably priced and loved by local people.
Kajika (Kawamushi)
“Kajika” is a restaurant near Unazuki Onsen Station, famous for its clay pot rice and oden (hot pot dish). In the work, a scene appears of Chika and Koyomi enjoying firefly squid clay pot rice, and the delicious depiction of this dish became a topic among fans.
When you actually visit, you can enjoy dishes made with local ingredients in the warm atmosphere of the restaurant depicted in the work. While firefly squid clay pot rice is a spring-limited menu, various clay pot rice dishes are available depending on the season, allowing you to enjoy Toyama cuisine whenever you visit.
Oden is also a specialty, with abundant ingredients made from local ingredients. This is definitely a place to visit as a dining spot for sacred site pilgrimage.
Yamabiko Observation Deck
“Yamabiko Observation Deck,” located on a hilltop in Unazuki Hot Spring town, is a scenic spot offering a panoramic view of the Kurobe Gorge and the hot spring town. It appears in the work, with its beautiful scenery depicted impressively.
The observation deck is about a 15-minute walk from the hot spring town. While it requires climbing uphill, once you arrive, you are overwhelmed by the magnificent scenery of the Kurobe Gorge spread below. The autumn foliage season is particularly spectacular, with the entire gorge turning red and yellow.
The observation deck also has a rest area where you can leisurely enjoy the scenery. It is an ideal spot for taking commemorative photos during your sacred site pilgrimage.
Other Sacred Sites
Taihi Mountain Kichijo-ji Temple
“Taihi Mountain Kichijo-ji Temple” in the Ikuji district is a temple that appears in the work. The temple grounds have a quiet and calm atmosphere and are revered by local people.
Stopping by during your sacred site pilgrimage allows you to spend peaceful time. The scenery around the temple is also beautiful, and it is recommended to stroll while recalling scenes from the work.
Dentetsu Kurobe Station
“Dentetsu Kurobe Station” on the Toyama Chiho Railway Main Line is also one of the stations appearing in the work. A station closely connected to local life, it allows you to feel the everyday life of Toyama different from tourist destinations.
There is also a shopping arcade around the station, and it is fun to browse local shops. Through sacred site pilgrimage, you can come into contact with the culture and life of the region that became the stage for the work.
Model Courses for Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Day Trip Course
Morning: Kurobe Unazuki Onsen Station → Ikuji District
- 9:00 Arrive at Kurobe Unazuki Onsen Station
- 9:30 View fresh seafood at Uohana Fish Station Ikuji
- 10:30 Stroll through Ikuji town (Iwase Family’s Shimizu, etc.)
- 11:30 Enjoy the spectacular views of the Ikuji coast
Afternoon: Unazuki Hot Spring
- 13:00 Travel by Toyama Chiho Railway from Shin Kurobe Station
- 13:30 Arrive at Unazuki Onsen Station
- 14:00 Visit Kurobe Gorge Railway Unazuki Station
- 15:00 Enjoy firefly squid clay pot rice at Kajika (spring season)
- 16:00 Enjoy spectacular views at Yamabiko Observation Deck
- 17:00 Take a hot spring bath at Yumedo Unazuki
- 18:30 Return home from Kurobe Unazuki Onsen Station
1 Night 2 Days Course
Day 1: Thoroughly Explore Ikuji District
- Morning: Arrive at Kurobe Unazuki Onsen Station, head to Ikuji district
- Afternoon: Leisurely explore Uohana Fish Station Ikuji, Ikuji town, and coast
- Evening: Check in at an inn in Unazuki Hot Spring
- Night: Enjoy the atmosphere of the hot spring town
Day 2: Kurobe Gorge and Unazuki Hot Spring
- Morning: Ride the Kurobe Gorge Trolley Train (requires reservation)
- Afternoon: Explore Yamabiko Observation Deck, Kajika, and other hot spring town attractions
- Evening: Return home
With a 1 night 2 days course, you can visit all the spots that appeared in the work at a leisurely pace. This course is especially recommended if you plan to ride the Kurobe Gorge Trolley Train.
Access Information
From Tokyo Area
Using Shinkansen
- Tokyo Station → Kurobe Unazuki Onsen Station: Hokuriku Shinkansen, approximately 2 hours 30 minutes
- Fare: Regular reserved seat approximately 13,000 yen (one way)
Airplane + Train
- Haneda Airport → Toyama Kitokito Airport: approximately 1 hour
- Toyama Kitokito Airport → Toyama Station: bus approximately 20 minutes
- Toyama Station → Kurobe Unazuki Onsen Station: Hokuriku Shinkansen approximately 20 minutes
From Osaka and Nagoya Areas
Using Shinkansen
- Osaka Station → Kanazawa Station: Limited express Thunderbird, approximately 2 hours 30 minutes
- Kanazawa Station → Kurobe Unazuki Onsen Station: Hokuriku Shinkansen, approximately 1 hour
- Nagoya Station → Kanazawa Station: Limited express Shirasagi, approximately 3 hours
- Kanazawa Station → Kurobe Unazuki Onsen Station: Hokuriku Shinkansen, approximately 1 hour
Local Transportation
Bus
- Kurobe Unazuki Onsen Station → Unazuki Hot Spring: Local bus, approximately 10 minutes
- Fare: approximately 500 yen
Toyama Chiho Railway
- Shin Kurobe Station → Unazuki Onsen Station: approximately 20 minutes
- Fare: approximately 500 yen
Car Rental
- Car rental shops available around Kurobe Unazuki Onsen Station
- Convenient for visiting places in Ikuji district and other locations difficult to access by public transportation
Etiquette and Precautions for Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Photography Etiquette
When taking photographs during sacred site pilgrimage, keep the following points in mind:
- No trespassing on private property: Even if a location appears in the work, do not enter if it is private property
- Photography at operating businesses: Always obtain permission from store staff
- Consideration for other tourists: Do not become so absorbed in photography that you inconvenience other people
- Noise awareness: Act quietly in residential areas
Consideration for Local Residents
Sacred site pilgrimage also involves visiting the living spaces of local people:
- Always take trash with you: To keep the stage of the work beautiful
- Follow local rules: Respect no-parking zones and off-limits areas
- Contribute to the local economy: Support local shops through souvenir purchases and dining
Seasons and Clothing
Spring (March – May)
- Temperature: 10°C – 20°C
- Clothing: Light jacket, comfortable walking shoes
- Highlights: Firefly squid, cherry blossoms, fresh greenery
Summer (June – August)
- Temperature: 20°C – 30°C
- Clothing: Short sleeves, hat, sunscreen
- Highlights: Green Kurobe Gorge, beach swimming
Fall (September – November)
- Temperature: 10°C – 20°C
- Clothing: Long sleeves, jacket
- Highlights: Autumn foliage, new rice, fresh seafood
Winter (December – February)
- Temperature: 0°C – 10°C
- Clothing: Thick coat, gloves, scarf
- Note: Kurobe Gorge Trolley Train is closed
Souvenirs and Gourmet Information
Recommended Souvenirs
White Shrimp Crackers
Crackers made with white shrimp, called the jewel of Toyama Bay. Characterized by a crispy texture and the refined sweetness of white shrimp.
Firefly Squid Seasoned in Oil
A representative spring taste of Toyama. Perfect as a snack with alcohol and a popular item locally.
Kurobe Famous Water
Natural water from the clear Kurobe River. Comes in plastic bottles, making it easy to take home as a souvenir.
Kelp Products
Toyama ranks first nationally in kelp consumption. Various kelp products are available, including kelp-wrapped fish and kelp tea.
Local Cuisine
Firefly Squid Dishes
Limited to spring (March – May). Enjoy in various preparations including firefly squid clay pot rice, firefly squid sashimi, and vinegared miso.
White Shrimp Dishes
White shrimp rice bowl, white shrimp sashimi, white shrimp tempura, etc. Characterized by beautiful, translucent appearance and sweet flavor.
Toyama Black Ramen
Rich-flavored ramen using black soy sauce. Known as Toyama’s soul food and loved by locals.
Trout Sushi
A representative home-style dish of Toyama. Pressed sushi made with cherry salmon, also popular as a station bento.
Collaboration Information and Events
Past Collaboration Projects
During the anime broadcast period, collaboration projects were implemented in Kurobe City and Unazuki Hot Spring. Sacred site pilgrimage maps were distributed, stamp rallies were held, and limited goods were sold, attracting many fans.
How to Get the Latest Information
Official Sites
- TV Anime “Zatsu Tabi -That’s Journey-” Official Site
- Kurobe City Tourism Association Website
- Unazuki Hot Spring Tourism Association Website
SNS
- Check Twitter (X) for “#Zatsu Tabi” and “#Sacred Site Pilgrimage”
- Reports from other fans’ pilgrimages are also helpful
The latest collaboration information and event announcements can be found on these official sites and SNS.
Accommodation Information
Inns and Hotels in Unazuki Hot Spring
Luxury Inns
Guest rooms overlooking the Kurobe Gorge, kaiseki cuisine using local ingredients, hot springs offering the water for beautiful skin and other full amenities. Approximately 20,000 – 40,000 yen per night including two meals.
Business Hotels
There are also reasonably priced business hotels around Unazuki Onsen Station. With room-only or breakfast-included plans, you can stay for approximately 7,000 – 12,000 yen.
Around Kurobe Unazuki Onsen Station
There are also business hotels in the surrounding area, convenient for shinkansen access. Can be used as a base for sacred site pilgrimage.
Reservation Tips
- Book early: Especially during the autumn foliage season (October – November), book 2-3 months in advance due to crowding
- Use weekdays: Weekdays offer cheaper rates and easier reservations than weekends
- Check accommodation plans: Look for special sacred site pilgrimage plans or plans that include trolley train tickets
Nearby Attractions
Kurobe Dam
If you visit Kurobe City, be sure to take a trip to Kurobe Dam. About 1 hour 30 minutes by car from Unazuki Hot Spring. Japan’s largest arch-type dam, you will be overwhelmed by its grand scale.
Sightseeing water discharge is conducted from late June through mid-October, and the spectacle of over 10 tons of water being discharged per second is thrilling.
Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route
Toyama Prefecture’s representative tourist route. Starting from Tateyama Station through to Togawa Station in Nagano Prefecture, it spans mountains with elevations of 3,000 meters and above. Packed with attractions including the Snow Valley, Mikuri Pond, and Kurobe Dam.
Seasonal operations run from mid-April through late November, with the Snow Valley season particularly popular from April through June.
Inside Toyama City
Around Toyama Station, tourist attractions are concentrated, including Toyama Castle, Glass Museum, and Masu Sushi Museum. It is also recommended to stop by before or after your sacred site pilgrimage.
Fan Sacred Site Pilgrimage Experience Reports
Voices from Fans Who Actually Visited
“The scenery I saw in the work was right before my eyes, and I was moved. The Tateyama mountain range viewed from the Ikuji coast was truly beautiful” (Female, 20s)
“Kajika’s firefly squid clay pot rice was delicious just as shown in the work. I was so glad I visited in spring” (Male, 30s)
“I prepared well, and I successfully rode the trolley train. It felt like I achieved the comeback depicted in the work” (Female, 40s)
Tips for Sacred Site Pilgrimage
A common tip raised by many fans:
- Do thorough research in advance: Following the work’s lesson, confirm operating hours and service status
- Take your time: Don’t rush; savor the atmosphere of the work as you visit locations
- Interact with local people: Talking to shop staff may lead to hearing behind-the-scenes stories from the work
- Choose the season: Enjoy seasonal attractions such as spring firefly squid and autumn foliage
Conclusion: The Appeal of “Zatsu Tabi” Toyama Prefecture Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Kurobe City, Toyama Prefecture, the stage for the TV anime “Zatsu Tabi -That’s Journey-,” is a sacred site brimming with charm—magnificent nature, delicious gourmet, and heartwarming hot springs. By visiting the locations that appeared in the work, you can relive the journey of Chika and Koyomi while simultaneously discovering the wonderful nature of Toyama Prefecture.
The sacred site pilgrimage route beginning at Kurobe Unazuki Onsen Station and continuing through the Ikuji coast to Unazuki Hot Spring town is recommended not only for fans of the work but also for hot spring enthusiasts, nature lovers, and food lovers. While cherishing the spirit of “spontaneous travel” that is the theme of the work, also conduct thorough research to enjoy a fulfilling sacred site pilgrimage.
Through your sacred site pilgrimage in Kurobe City, Toyama Prefecture, your love for the work will deepen further, and new travel memories will be created. Please use this article as a guide and experience the world of “Zatsu Tabi” firsthand.
