The Anime “Super Cub”: A Holy Land Pilgrimage Guide to Yamanashi Prefecture
The anime “Super Cub” is a work set primarily in Hokuto City, Yamanashi Prefecture. The story of the protagonist Oguma meeting a Super Cub and growing through deepening bonds with friends captivated many fans’ hearts. In this article, we provide a detailed introduction to holy land pilgrimage spots in Yamanashi Prefecture, the setting of the work.
What is Super Cub? The Appeal of the Work and Its Connection to Yamanashi Prefecture
“Super Cub” is an adaptation of a light novel by Tone Koken that became a television anime in 2021. Centered on Hokuto City, Yamanashi Prefecture, actual landscapes are carefully depicted, earning high praise not only from anime fans but also from motorcycle enthusiasts.
Yamanashi Prefecture, the setting of the work, is a region rich in nature, surrounded by Mt. Fuji and the Southern Alps. In particular, Hokuto City is located at the base of the Yatsugatake Mountains and is an attractive area featuring beautiful rural landscapes and clear air. In the anime, the everyday scenery of this region is carefully recreated, providing visitors with a special experience of “stepping into the world of the work.”
Major Holy Land Spots in Hokuto City
Yamanashi Prefectural Hokuto High School (Model School)
The model for the high school attended by Oguma and friends is Yamanashi Prefectural Hokuto High School. The school building’s exterior and gate depicted in the anime faithfully recreate the actual Hokuto High School. However, since it is an active educational facility, please refrain from entering the grounds when visiting and limit yourself to viewing the exterior from public roads.
Access Information:
- Approximately 10 minutes by car from “Nagasaka Station” on the JR Chuo Main Line
- Approximately 15 minutes by car from “Nagasaka IC” on the Chuo Expressway
Michi-no-Eki Kobuchisawa
“Michi-no-Eki Kobuchisawa,” which features a memorable scene where Oguma and Reiko visit in the work, is an actual popular rest stop. Fresh local vegetables and specialty products are sold here, making it an ideal place to take a break while touring.
From this roadside station, you can enjoy a magnificent view of the Yatsugatake Mountains, and you can actually experience the beautiful scenery depicted in the anime. The restaurant also serves cuisine using local ingredients, making it recommended for taking a meal break during your holy land pilgrimage.
Business Hours:
- 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (hours vary by season)
- Closed: Open all year (except New Year’s)
Kiyosato Area
Kiyosato is an area known as a tourist destination in Hokuto City and appears in multiple scenes in the anime. Actual tourist spots such as Kiyosato Terrace and Seisenryo are depicted in the anime, making them must-see places for fans.
In particular, the soft-serve ice cream from Seisenryo is mentioned in the work and is a must-try specialty when visiting for a holy land pilgrimage. Eating soft-serve ice cream on a highland at an elevation of 1,400 meters has an exceptionally delicious taste.
Holy Land Spots in Kofu City
Around Kofu Station
The area around Kofu Station, where Oguma and friends visit for shopping, is also an important setting in the work. The scenery of the station and the appearance of the shopping streets are faithfully recreated, providing the joy of discovering the world of the anime within everyday cityscapes.
Kofu Station is a key transportation hub in Yamanashi Prefecture and is also convenient as a starting point for holy land pilgrimage. The area around the station is well-equipped with restaurants and hotels, making it suitable as a base for pilgrimages involving overnight stays.
Motorcycle Shop
A shop that served as the model for the motorcycle shop appearing in the anime actually exists within Kofu City. As the important location where Oguma purchased a Super Cub, it is visited by many fans. The actual motorcycle shop displays and sells Honda vehicles, including Super Cubs.
Scenic Spots Around Mt. Fuji
Lake Motosu
Lake Motosu, which appears in a scene where Oguma and Reiko enjoy camping in the work, is one of the Fuji Five Lakes and is also famous as the filming location for Mt. Fuji depicted on the back of the one-thousand yen bill. The view of Mt. Fuji from the lakeshore is spectacular, and you can enjoy beautiful scenery in every season.
A campground is also available, making it possible to enjoy camping and touring just like in the anime. In particular, the “upside-down Mt. Fuji” reflected on the lake’s surface at dawn is a must-see spectacular view.
Lake Shoji and Lake Sai
Along with Lake Motosu, Lake Shoji and Lake Sai are beautiful lakes that also appear in the anime. The touring route that goes around these lakes is a popular course where you can enjoy the spectacular views of Mt. Fuji while riding.
Recommended Routes and Plans for Holy Land Pilgrimage
Day Trip Course (For Beginners)
Duration: Approximately 6-8 hours
- Start: “Kofu Station” on the JR Chuo Main Line (9:00 a.m.)
- Kofu Station Area Tour (9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.)
- Motorcycle shop visit
- Confirmation of holy land spots at the station
- Travel: Kofu Station → Hokuto City (approximately 40 minutes by car)
- Around Hokuto High School (11:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.)
- Exterior viewing (no entry into the grounds)
- Michi-no-Eki Kobuchisawa (12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.)
- Lunch and break
- Purchase of local specialties
- Kiyosato Area (2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.)
- Soft-serve ice cream at Seisenryo
- Kiyosato Terrace tour
- Return Journey: Hokuto City → Kofu Station (expected arrival 5:00 p.m.)
This course makes pilgrimage possible even for those who don’t have a motorcycle by combining public transportation and a rental car.
1-Night, 2-Day Course (For Serious Enthusiasts)
Day 1:
- Morning: Gather at Kofu Station, tour holy land spots in Kofu City
- Afternoon: Move to Hokuto City, visit Hokuto High School and Michi-no-Eki Kobuchisawa
- Evening: Explore the Kiyosato area
- Accommodation: Hotel or pension in Kiyosato or Obuchisawa
Day 2:
- Morning: Move toward the Fuji Five Lakes area
- Tour Lake Motosu campground and photograph
- Touring around Lake Shoji and Lake Sai
- Afternoon: Return toward Kofu area and purchase souvenirs
- Evening: Dissolve at Kofu Station
This course covers almost all major settings in the anime and allows you to immerse yourself in the world of the work at a leisurely pace.
Motorcycle Touring Course (For Advanced Riders)
A route for those planning a holy land pilgrimage by Super Cub or moped.
Recommended Route:
Kofu Station → National Route 20 → Hokuto City → Prefectural Route 11 → Kiyosato → National Route 141 → Nobesama → National Route 299 → Lake Motosu → Lake Shoji → Lake Sai → Return to Kofu City
Total Distance: Approximately 150 km
Duration: 8 to 10 hours including breaks
This route allows you to actually experience the roads that Oguma and friends rode in the anime. However, since it includes mountain roads, it is recommended for those confident in their driving skills and physical ability.
Precautions and Etiquette for Holy Land Pilgrimage
Photography Etiquette
When taking photographs during a holy land pilgrimage, pay attention to the following points:
- No unauthorized entry onto private property: Schools and residences in particular are active facilities
- Be considerate not to obstruct traffic: Avoid long photography sessions on roads
- Consideration for local residents: Refrain from visiting early in the morning or late at night, and avoid loud conversations
- Always take your trash with you: Keeping the setting of the work beautiful is also the responsibility of fans
Precautions When Touring by Motorcycle
When touring by motorcycle such as a Super Cub:
- Prioritize safe driving: Be careful not to have an accident by being distracted by the scenery
- Proper equipment: Safety gear such as helmets and gloves are essential
- Fuel planning: Since there are few gas stations in mountainous areas, confirm refueling points in advance
- Weather check: Since weather can change rapidly in mountainous areas, check beforehand
- Winter precautions: From November to March, there is a possibility of snow and icing, so be careful with tires and route selection
Consideration for the Community
Holy land pilgrimages are welcomed as part of regional tourism, but please be considerate of the following:
- Contributing to the local economy: Use roadside stations and restaurants to put money into the community
- Compliance with traffic rules: Observe speed limits and no-parking areas
- Noise consideration: Be mindful of engine and exhaust noise from motorcycles
- Confirm business hours of facilities: Especially roadside stations and tourist facilities vary in business hours depending on the season
Best Seasons and Seasonal Appeal
Spring (March to May)
Spring is a season of beautiful cherry blossoms and new greenery. In Hokuto City, cherry blossoms come into bloom from mid to late April. The contrast between snow still remaining on the Yatsugatake Mountains and cherry blossoms is spectacular. However, mornings and evenings can be cold, so take precautions against the cold.
Summer (June to August)
Summer is the best season to enjoy the cool climate of the highlands. The Kiyosato area has a high elevation, so it is cooler and more comfortable than urban areas. It is also an optimal time for camping at the Fuji Five Lakes. However, from July to August, there are many tourists, so early reservations for accommodations are necessary.
Fall (September to November)
Fall is a beautiful season for autumn leaves and is optimal for touring. From mid-October to early November, autumn leaves come into bloom around the Yatsugatake Mountains and the Fuji Five Lakes. Mt. Fuji seen in the clear air has an exceptionally beautiful appearance.
Winter (December to February)
While winter has beautiful snowy landscapes, motorcycle touring becomes difficult. Snow accumulation and icy road surfaces can cause some roads to be closed to traffic. Car touring is recommended, but preparation of studless tires or chains is essential.
Recommended Seasons: May, June, September, October
During these periods, the weather is stable, temperatures are comfortable, and there are relatively fewer tourists.
Accommodations and Gourmet Information
Recommended Accommodation Areas
Kiyosato and Obuchisawa Area:
- Well-equipped with pensions and hotel-style mountain lodges
- Enjoy the nature of the Yatsugatake Mountains
- Price Range: Approximately 8,000 to 15,000 yen per night with two meals
Kofu City:
- Well-equipped with business hotels at relatively reasonable prices
- Convenient access by public transportation
- Price Range: Approximately 5,000 to 8,000 yen per night without meals
Around the Fuji Five Lakes:
- Wide selection from campgrounds to luxury resorts
- Enjoy spectacular views of Mt. Fuji
- Price Range: Campgrounds from 1,000 yen, hotels from 10,000 yen
Local Cuisine
Houtou:
A famous miso-based noodle dish as a local specialty of Yamanashi Prefecture. There are many famous restaurants in Hokuto City.
Seisenryo Soft-Serve Ice Cream:
A specialty of Kiyosato that also appears in the anime. An exquisite sweet made with rich Jersey milk.
Koshu Wine Beef:
Beef raised with grape pomace (leftover from wine production) mixed into the feed. Characterized by tender meat and rich flavor.
Shingan Mochi:
A standard souvenir. The combination of kinako (roasted soybean flour) and black molasses is exquisite.
Access Methods and Transportation
Public Transportation
Train:
- From Tokyo area: JR Chuo Main Line to “Kofu Station” or “Obuchisawa Station”
- Travel Time: Limited express from Shinjuku Station to Kofu Station takes approximately 90 minutes, approximately 120 minutes to Obuchisawa Station
Bus:
- Bus routes from Kofu Station to the Hokuto City area available
- However, service is limited, so check the timetable in advance
Automobile and Motorcycle
From Tokyo Area:
- Use the Chuo Expressway
- Exit at “Kofu Showa IC” or “Nagasaka IC”
- Travel Time: Approximately 2 hours (depending on traffic)
From Nagoya Area:
- Use the Chuo Expressway
- Travel Time: Approximately 3 hours
Car Rental and Motorcycle Rental
There are multiple car rental companies around Kofu Station. Additionally, some motorcycle shops also offer motorcycle rental services. Rental services for Super Cubs are available at some shops, making it recommended for those who want to experience the same thing as the work.
Rental Fee Estimates:
- Car rental (light vehicle): From 5,000 yen per day
- Motorcycle rental (moped): From 3,000 yen per day
- Motorcycle rental (Super Cub): From 4,000 yen per day
Apps and Tools for Holy Land Pilgrimage
Location Scouting Map Apps
Using apps and websites that share information about anime holy land sites allows for efficient pilgrimage. Photos and location information posted by fans are helpful references.
Touring Support Apps
- Google Maps: Basic navigation
- Touring Supporter: Route search for motorcycles
- NAVITIME: Transfer information for public transportation
Weather Forecast Apps
Since weather changes rapidly in mountainous areas, using detailed weather forecast apps is important. In particular, “tenki.jp” and “Weather News” are strong in weather forecasting for mountainous areas.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
We introduce nearby tourist attractions to visit along with holy land pilgrimage.
Yamanashi Prefectural Art Museum
Houses masterpieces including Millet’s “The Sower.” Located in Kofu City with convenient access.
Suntory Hakushu Distillery
A popular spot where you can observe the whiskey manufacturing process. You can also enjoy tastings (reservations required).
Shosenkyo Gorge
A scenic spot boasting one of Japan’s finest gorge beauty. Located in the north of Kofu City, it is especially spectacular during the autumn foliage season.
Yatsugatake Resort Outlet
An outlet mall in Obuchisawa. Enjoy shopping and dining.
Ways to Preserve Memories of Your Holy Land Pilgrimage
Creating a Pilgrimage Notebook
Recording the places visited, photographs taken, and what you felt in a pilgrimage notebook brings back happy memories when reviewed later.
Sharing on Social Media
Posting on Twitter and Instagram with hashtags such as “#SuperCubHolyLandPilgrimage” and “#YamanashiPrefecture” allows you to connect with fans of the same work.
“Holy Land Stamps” Like Temple Stamps
Commemorative stamps are often placed at roadside stations and tourist facilities. Bringing a stamp collection booklet and collecting stamps is also a fun way to record your visit.
Deepening Exchange with the Community
Participation in Local Events
Various events are held year-round in Hokuto City. Participating in local festivals and markets allows you to more deeply understand the culture of the region that became the setting for the work.
Conversation with Local People
If you have an opportunity to chat with local people at a roadside station or café, try asking them about their impressions of the anime. Local people are also pleased that the work has drawn attention to their region.
Conclusion: The Appeal of Super Cub Holy Land Pilgrimage
A holy land pilgrimage of the anime “Super Cub” is not only an opportunity to experience the world of the work but also a wonderful chance to touch the beautiful nature and culture of Yamanashi Prefecture. The setting centered on Hokuto City has charm in every season, and new discoveries can be made with each visit.
Through holy land pilgrimage, you can experience the freedom and joy of adventure that Oguma and friends felt on their Super Cub. Even if you don’t have a motorcycle, you can fully enjoy it by utilizing public transportation or car rentals.
While respecting the community and following proper etiquette, spend a special time in the beautiful scenery of Yamanashi Prefecture with love for the work in your heart. Surely, you will encounter emotions that exceed the scenery you saw in the anime.
Holy land pilgrimage is not mere tourism but a special experience that connects works, communities, and fans. Why not spin your own story while feeling the wind of Yamanashi Prefecture, riding a Super Cub (or imagining that you are)?
