【mono】 Yamanashi Prefecture Usui City
The TV anime “mono” is a coming-of-age story set in Yamanashi Prefecture, with beautiful depictions of real landscapes throughout the prefecture. This article comprehensively introduces information necessary for “mono” pilgrimage sites in Yamanashi Prefecture, including all 53 model locations featured in the anime, efficient pilgrimage routes, and how to obtain pilgrimage maps.
The Relationship Between TV Anime “mono” and Yamanashi Prefecture
“mono” is an anime work where the story unfolds primarily in Yamanashi Prefecture, with tourist spots and everyday scenes from various parts of the prefecture, including the Ken’ō Net Yamanashi area, carefully depicted. In Yamanashi Prefecture, which serves as the stage for this work, the region as a whole is developing collaboration projects with the anime and actively supports fan pilgrimage activities.
What is Ken’ō Net Yamanashi?
Ken’ō Net Yamanashi is a broad tourism area composed of seven cities and towns: Kofu City, Kai City, Chuo City, Showa Town, Minami-Alps City, Nirasaki City, and Hokuto City. This area contains numerous model locations that appear in important scenes of “mono,” making it the center of pilgrimage activities. Tourist associations from each municipality coordinate to distribute pilgrimage maps and provide tourism information, creating an environment where fans can enjoy pilgrimages with peace of mind.
How to Use the “mono” Pilgrimage Site Digital Map
Features of the Digital Map
Through official collaboration between Ken’ō Net Yamanashi and “mono,” a digital map featuring all 53 spots from the anime has been released. This map includes the following features:
- GPS-linked function: Search for the nearest model locations from your current position
- Scene comparison: Display which scenes from the anime are depicted at each spot
- Route guidance: Suggest optimal routes between selected spots
- Photo upload function: Community features to record your visits
- Digital stamp rally: Record visited spots with digital stamps
How to Access the Digital Map
The digital map can be accessed free of charge from the “Ken’ō Net Yamanashi × TV Anime ‘mono’ Official Site.” Open it in your smartphone browser to use it in real-time with GPS connectivity at each location. Bookmarking it in advance allows smooth use even in mountainous areas with unstable signal reception.
Distribution Locations for Paper Version Pilgrimage Maps
In addition to the digital map, paper versions of pilgrimage maps are distributed at various locations throughout the prefecture. The paper map includes detailed tourism information and recommended courses, making it popular as a commemorative item.
List of Major Distribution Locations
Hokuto City Area
- Kiyosato Station Front Tourism Comprehensive Information Center
- Hokuto City Tourism Association Branch Offices
Kofu City Area
- Kofu City Tourism Information Office (inside JR Kofu Station)
- Kofu City Hall Tourism Division
Minami-Alps City Area
- Minami-Alps City Tourism Association
- Michi-no-Eki Shirane
Other Distribution Locations
- Mitama-no-Yu (reception desk)
- Major Michi-no-Eki stations throughout the prefecture
- Tourism information offices in each municipality
Distribution may be limited in quantity, so it is recommended to call ahead to confirm inventory if you want to ensure you obtain a copy.
Introduction to “mono” 53 Major Model Location Spots
Model Locations within Kofu City
Isawa Onsen Station
An important spot appearing in the anime’s opening scene. The scenery around the station is faithfully reproduced, making it the first place many fans visit. With many hot spring inns around the station, it’s also an ideal lodging base.
Yamanashi Prefectural Science Museum
Appears in an episode where characters challenge science experiments. The museum’s exhibits are well-equipped, allowing you to enjoy actual science experiences while enjoying the pilgrimage. The planetarium is also popular, letting you gaze at the starry sky while immersed in the anime’s worldview.
Kofu Station Vicinity Shopping Street
A shopping street that frequently appears in everyday scenes. Real shops are depicted in the anime, and locals warmly welcome fans. When photographing, be considerate not to disturb business operations.
Model Locations in Hokuto City and Kiyosato Area
Kiyosato Station
A station used in scenes featuring the refreshing atmosphere of a highland area. The station building’s exterior and surrounding natural scenery are beautifully depicted in the anime. From spring to autumn, flowers bloom abundantly, making it ideal for photography.
Kiyosato Terrace
A spot offering spectacular views from an altitude of 1,900 meters, serving as the stage for important scenes in the anime. A panorama lift takes about 10 minutes to reach the summit, from which you can see the Yatsugatake and Mount Fuji in full view.
Moegi-no-Mura
A tourist spot with a whimsical atmosphere. In the anime, it appears in a scene where characters enjoy shopping. Cafes and restaurants are well-equipped, making it ideal for a break.
Model Locations in Minami-Alps City Area
Minami-Alps City Fruit Park
A spot depicting landscapes of fruit orchards. You can enjoy the scenery of fruit cultivation unique to Yamanashi Prefecture. Seasonal fruit picking experiences are available, allowing you to savor Yamanashi’s flavors while enjoying the pilgrimage.
Kushigata Mountain
A mountain appearing in a hiking scene. Beginner-friendly hiking courses are well-maintained, and the summit views are spectacular. Known as a blooming area for irises in June, with a blanket of purple flowers.
Model Locations in Chuo City and Nirasaki City Area
Linear Vision Center
Appears in an episode where characters experience cutting-edge technology. With exhibits of actual superconducting linear vehicles and experience corners, you can recreate scenes from the anime.
Nirasaki Central Park
Depicted as a place of rest in everyday life. A familiar spot used by local residents, allowing you to feel the everyday sense of the anime.
Recommended Pilgrimage Model Courses
Full Day Enjoyment Course (by car)
Duration: Approximately 8 hours
- 9:00 Isawa Onsen Station Start (30 minutes stay)
- 9:45 Yamanashi Prefectural Science Museum (90 minutes stay)
- 12:00 Lunch in Kofu City (60 minutes)
- 1:30 PM Minami-Alps City Fruit Park (60 minutes stay)
- 3:00 PM Move to Kiyosato Area (90 minutes)
- 4:30 PM Kiyosato Station/Moegi-no-Mura (90 minutes stay)
- 6:00 PM Mitama-no-Yu Hot Spring Bath (90 minutes)
This course allows you to efficiently visit major model locations while also enjoying Yamanashi’s tourism. Car travel is the foundation, but distances between each spot are about 30 minutes apart, making for a manageable schedule.
Public Transportation Course (2 days)
Day 1: Kofu City Concentrated Course
- Use JR Kofu Station as a base to tour city model locations on foot and by bus
- About 30 minutes by bus to Yamanashi Prefectural Science Museum
- Kofu Station vicinity shopping street is within walking distance
- Accommodation: Isawa Onsen or a Kofu City hotel
Day 2: Kiyosato Area Course
- Travel from JR Kobuchizsawa Station to Kiyosato Station
- Tour model locations around Kiyosato Station on foot
- Use taxi or local bus to Kiyosato Terrace
- Return: Travel from Kiyosato Station via Kobuchizsawa Station homeward
Half Day Easy Course
Duration: Approximately 4 hours
A beginner-friendly course focusing on major spots in Kofu City. Efficiently tour by foot and bus starting from JR Kofu Station.
- Kofu Station (start)
- Station vicinity shopping street (15 minutes on foot)
- Yamanashi Prefectural Science Museum (30 minutes by bus)
- Return to Kofu Station for lunch
Best Times to Visit by Season
Spring (March to May)
Cherry blossoms can be enjoyed at each spot during the blossom season. Particularly in the Kiyosato area, late April through early May is peak viewing season, allowing you to experience the spring landscape depicted in the anime. Daytime temperatures around 15-20 degrees Celsius are comfortable, making this the ideal season for pilgrimage.
Summer (June to August)
The high-altitude Kiyosato area is comfortable as a summer retreat. The Kofu basin becomes hot, but early morning and evening pilgrimages are recommended. It’s also the fruit picking season, allowing you to combine peach and grape harvesting experiences with your pilgrimage.
Autumn (September to November)
A season of beautiful autumn leaves. The autumn foliage from Kiyosato Terrace and Kushigata Mountain is spectacular. The weather is stable, making this arguably the best season for pilgrimage. Grape and pear harvests are also available.
Winter (December to February)
A season where you can recreate snow-covered scenes. However, mountainous areas have snowfall, requiring winter tires for vehicle travel. Incorporating breaks at hot spring facilities allows comfortable pilgrimage.
Transportation Access for Pilgrimage
By Car
From Tokyo
- Approximately 2 hours via Chuo Expressway
- Exit at Kofu Showa IC or Kofu Minami IC
- Car rentals available at multiple locations near Kofu Station
From Nagoya
- Approximately 3 hours via Chuo Expressway
- Nirasaki IC or Suyama IC exits are also convenient
Parking Information
Parking lots for tourists are set up at each model location, but weekends and holidays can be crowded. The Kiyosato area especially gets crowded in summer, so visiting early is recommended.
By Public Transportation
Railway
- Limited express from Shinjuku Station to Kofu Station on JR Chuo Line in approximately 90 minutes
- Use JR Koumi Line from Kofu Station toward Kiyosato
- About 10 minutes by Chuo Line from Kofu Station to Isawa Onsen Station
Local Buses
- Local buses available from Kofu Station toward Yamanashi Prefectural Science Museum
- Tourist shuttle buses operate from Kiyosato Station (seasonal operation)
- Bus routes connecting major tourist destinations are well-established
Taxis
Taxi stands at each station make travel between model locations convenient. Particularly useful for moving to spots difficult to access by public transportation.
Yamanashi Tourism Enjoyable Alongside Pilgrimage
Gourmet Information
Houtou
Yamanashi Prefecture’s regional cuisine. Many houtou specialty shops operate in Kofu City, ideal for lunch during pilgrimage.
Fruit Parfaits
Parfaits and sweets using fresh Yamanashi-produced fruits are popular. Seasonal fruits can be enjoyed throughout the year.
Wineries
With approximately 80 wineries in the prefecture, tastings and tours are possible. Many wineries can be visited between pilgrimage stops.
Hot Spring Facilities
Isawa Onsen
A hot spring town that also appears in the anime. Many facilities offer day-use bathing, helping you recover from pilgrimage fatigue.
Mitama-no-Yu
A day-use hot spring facility that also distributes pilgrimage maps. The outdoor bath views are wonderful and relaxing.
Kiyosato Onsen
A highland hot spring ideal for resting after Kiyosato area pilgrimage. Accommodations are well-equipped.
Pilgrimage Manners and Rules
Precautions When Photographing
- No unauthorized entry to private property: Some model locations include private property. Never enter areas marked with entry prohibitions
- Consideration for operating shops: In shopping streets and similar areas, photograph in places that don’t obstruct traffic or business
- Tripod use: Minimize tripod use during crowded times or in narrow spaces
- Noise control: Avoid loud conversations and early morning or late evening visits in residential areas
Consideration for the Region
- Always take trash with you: Keep the area around model locations clean
- Support local shops: Contributing to the local economy through dining and shopping
- Obey traffic rules: Illegal parking and stopping in dangerous locations are strictly prohibited
- Greet residents: Be polite if you have the opportunity to interact with locals
Wrapped Bus and Collaboration Project Information
Kofu City Wrapped Bus
In Kofu City, wrapped buses featuring “mono” characters are in operation. They serve as regular route buses for actual use, popular both as transportation and photography spots.
Operation Information
- Operating routes: Major routes in the city centered on Kofu Station
- Operating period: Check the official site for latest information
- Fares: Standard local bus fares
Other Collaboration Projects
- Stamp Rally: Period-limited digital stamp rallies
- Exclusive Merchandise Sales: Limited goods sold at each tourist information office
- Collaboration Cafes: Some shops offer anime collaboration menus during limited periods
Recommended Accommodations
Isawa Onsen Area
Ideal as a pilgrimage base. Conveniently located for access to both Kofu City and the Kiyosato area. A wide range of options from hot spring inns to business hotels.
Kofu City Hotels
Business hotels are abundant around JR Kofu Station. Convenient for public transportation pilgrimage, with numerous dining options.
Kiyosato Area Pensions
Pensions and small hotels offering a highland resort atmosphere. Enjoy a leisurely stay surrounded by nature.
Useful Items Checklist for Pilgrimage
Essential Items
- Smartphone (for digital map)
- Mobile battery
- Paper pilgrimage map (as backup)
- Camera (smartphone acceptable)
- Drinks and light snacks
- Comfortable walking shoes
Handy Items
- Sunscreen and hat (summer)
- Warm clothing (winter/high altitude)
- Rain gear (folding umbrella)
- Notebook and pen (record keeping)
- Binoculars (to enjoy scenery)
Conclusion: Maximizing Enjoyment of “mono” Pilgrimage
The “mono” anime pilgrimage offers not only the opportunity to recreate the anime’s world but also a valuable chance to experience Yamanashi Prefecture’s rich nature and culture. Success comes from using both digital and paper maps and exploring at your own pace without rushing.
The 53 model locations centered on the Ken’ō Net Yamanashi area each have unique attractions. Visiting all of them in one day is challenging, so splitting visits over multiple trips is recommended. Yamanashi Prefecture’s landscape displays different faces with each season, offering new discoveries with every visit.
Pilgrimage activities are realized through the cooperation of local residents. By observing proper manners and visiting with a grateful spirit, positive relationships between anime fans and the community will continue. Enjoy the “mono” world fully while discovering Yamanashi’s charm on a wonderful journey.
The official site and SNS continuously update latest collaboration and event information. Be sure to check before departure and plan a fulfilling pilgrimage trip.
