Angolmoa: Genkou Kassenki – Complete Guide to Holy Sites in Tsushima, Nagasaki Prefecture
The historical manga “Angolmoa: Genkou Kassenki” by Takagi Nanahiko, which depicts the battles of Tsushima during the Mongol invasions (Genkou) in the Kamakura period, has received high praise from both history fans and anime fans. After being adapted into a television anime in 2018, Tsushima City, Nagasaki Prefecture was selected as one of “88 Japanese Anime Holy Sites to Visit.” This article provides a detailed introduction to the holy pilgrimage sites of Tsushima, where the story takes place, along with historical context.
What is “Angolmoa: Genkou Kassenki”?
“Angolmoa: Genkou Kassenki” is a historical epic romance centered on the battle of Tsushima during the Bunei Campaign of 1274. The protagonist is Kutsui Jinsaburo, an exiled samurai of the Kamakura shogunate, and the story depicts people fighting to protect Tsushima despite overwhelming numerical disadvantages.
The series consists of 10 volumes covering Tsushima, which is now complete, followed by the Hakata arc that was serialized, and currently the Koan Campaign arc is being developed. The original author, Takagi Nanahiko, has visited Tsushima multiple times and conducted meticulous on-site research, resulting in numerous actual historical sites and place names appearing throughout the work.
For the anime adaptation, the production staff also conducted research on Tsushima and faithfully recreated actual landscapes and terrain, achieving high realism. This thorough location recreation further enhances the appeal of holy site pilgrimage.
Historical Background of Tsushima and the Mongol Invasions
Tsushima, situated between Kyushu and the Korean Peninsula, has walked through tumultuous history as a border island. From ancient times, legends of the Dragon Palace have been transmitted, it prospered as a bronze-age kingdom mentioned in the Wei Chronicles of Wei Zhi, and during the Wanyō period, border guards were stationed there.
In October 1274, approximately 30,000 troops from the Mongol-Goryeo alliance invaded Tsushima, marking the beginning of the Bunei Campaign. Tsushima’s guardian representative Sō Suketane, leading about 80 samurai, fought bravely despite the overwhelming numerical disadvantage but was completely destroyed in the Battle of Komoda Beach. This tragic battle becomes the central theme of “Angolmoa: Genkou Kassenki.”
The Mongol invasions represented Japan’s first full-scale invasion by a foreign power, with Tsushima at the front line. Many islanders were sacrificed and Tsushima suffered devastating damage, but the memory of this battle remains in historical sites scattered throughout the island today.
Detailed Explanation of Major Holy Pilgrimage Sites
Sasuo Bay (Komoda Beach) – The Mongol Invasions’ First Battleground
Sasuo Bay is one of the most important settings in “Angolmoa: Genkou Kassenki.” Located in present-day Komoda, Izuhara Town, Tsushima City, it is known as the place where the Mongol-Goryeo alliance first landed on October 5, 1274.
Komoda Beach is a quiet seashore with beautiful sandy beaches, but here fierce combat occurred between the samurai forces led by Sō Suketane and the Mongol army. In the work, the battle scenes on this beach are depicted with powerful brushwork, and the anime reproduces them as impressive scenes.
Visiting the site in person allows one to imagine the intensity of the battle through the quiet atmosphere contrasted with beautiful nature. The seascape viewed from the coastline brings to mind the sight of the Mongol fleet pressing ashore over 740 years ago.
As a photography point, the angle looking out to sea from the beach is recommended. On clear days, the contrast between the blue sea and sky is beautiful, allowing you to enjoy holy site pilgrimage while feeling the world of the work.
Komoda Hama Shrine – Holy Site Dedicated to Mongol Invasion Casualties
Located near Komoda Beach, Komoda Hama Shrine enshrines Sō Suketane and other Tsushima samurai who died in the Mongol invasions. The shrine appears as an important location in “Angolmoa: Genkou Kassenki” and serves as a central holy pilgrimage site.
The shrine sits on a small hill, offering a panoramic view of Komoda Beach from the grounds. Climbing the stone steps reveals a solemn shrine building that inspires respect for the spirits of those who fell in the Mongol invasions.
Every November 12, the Komoda Hama Shrine Grand Festival is held, and Shinto rituals are performed to honor those who died in the Mongol invasions. The festival is known for selling traditional “dantsuké mochi,” which also appears in the work. Dantsuké mochi is a local Tsushima confection and is something fans will want to try.
Information plaques about the Mongol invasions are installed in the shrine grounds, allowing you to learn about the historical background while paying your respects. It is a place worth visiting for both anime and manga fans as well as those interested in history.
Kokufu and Izuhara Hachiman Shrine – Tsushima’s Central Shrine
Izuhara Hachiman Shrine is enshrined in the Izuhara district, where Tsushima’s ancient provincial government was located, and is one of the most prestigious shrines in the region. In “Angolmoa: Genkou Kassenki,” scenes are depicted where Tsushima’s guardian and samurai visit to pray for victory.
The shrine was founded long ago and has walked through history alongside Tsushima. During the Mongol invasions, it was the object of people’s faith as a guardian of the island. The grounds are spacious, and the impressive shrine buildings and torii gates convey the weight of history.
Izuhara is Tsushima’s central area and flourished as the castle town of Tsushima Domain during the Edo period. Around Hachiman Shrine, traces of samurai residences and other historic sites remain, offering enjoyable historical exploration. Combined with holy site pilgrimage, this is a valuable area to experience Tsushima’s history and culture.
Paying respects at the shrine helps deepen understanding of the work’s world. Standing in the place where samurai offered prayers before battle allows you to re-experience the tension and determination of the time.
Shiratake – Tsushima’s Sacred Peak
Shiratake is a 519-meter sacred peak representing Tsushima and appears as an impressive backdrop in “Angolmoa: Genkou Kassenki.” Since ancient times it has been the object of mountain worship, and the area near its summit features the mystical scenery of connected massive boulders.
In the work, the majestic form of Shiratake is depicted as a symbol of Tsushima, appearing in scenes where characters overlook the island’s terrain. Climbing to the summit allows you to view all of Tsushima, providing valuable perspective for understanding the geography during the Mongol invasions.
Climbing Shiratake is approximately a 3-hour round trip course with well-maintained trails, though the summit area has many rock formations requiring proper equipment. When planning a visit for holy site pilgrimage, carefully consider weather and physical condition.
The view from the summit is spectacular, and on clear days you can see the Tsushima Strait and even the Korean Peninsula. Seeing this landscape makes you vividly realize the geographic importance of Tsushima as a border island. It is an ideal photography spot, with spectacular scenery that captures the work’s world.
Kaneda Castle – Ancient Mountain Fortress Ruins
Kaneda Castle is an ancient mountain fortress in Yoshii Town, Tsushima City, built in the late 7th century and is one of Japan’s oldest mountain fortresses. In “Angolmoa: Genkou Kassenki,” it is depicted as a strategically important location playing a crucial role.
After Japan’s defeat by the Tang-Silla allied forces in the Battle of Baekgang River (663), Japan strengthened its defense system by building mountain fortresses in Tsushima, Iki, and northern Kyushu. Kaneda Castle is a representative example, with magnificent stone ramparts remaining from a fortress built on 276-meter-high Castle Mountain.
The castle ruins are accessible via a maintained mountain trail, forming a trekking course of approximately 2 hours round trip. Along the way, you can see impressive stone walls and castle gates, astonished by the high level of ancient construction technology. In particular, the stone ramparts called “First Gate” and “Second Gate” are spectacular, with preservation remarkably good for structures over 1,300 years old.
From the summit, the beautiful rias coastline of Asahage Bay is in full view, allowing you to imagine how border guards kept watch over the sea from this location. The area around these castle ruins is considered to have been an important defense position during the Mongol invasions.
Kaneda Castle is designated as a Special Historic Site, making it historically valuable ruins. Strongly recommended not only for fans of “Angolmoa: Genkou Kassenki” but also for those interested in Japanese history and castles.
Tomb of Echizen Goro – Honoring Mongol Invasion Heroes
Echizen Goro was one of the samurai who fought in Tsushima during the Mongol invasions, and his tomb remains within Tsushima City. As a historically related figure to “Angolmoa: Genkou Kassenki,” his tomb is sometimes included in holy pilgrimage sites.
The grave site is in a quiet location and transmits memories of samurai who fought in the Mongol invasions to the present. While not large in scale, it is an important historical site showing how the people of Tsushima have continued to treasure memories of the Mongol invasions.
Historical sites related to the Mongol invasions are scattered throughout Tsushima, and visiting these allows you to feel the layering of history and the continuation of islanders’ memory. The tomb of Echizen Goro, as one such site, has value adding to the holy pilgrimage itinerary.
Izakaya Taigen – A Resting Spot for Holy Pilgrimage
A place you’ll want to stop at during holy site pilgrimage is a local restaurant. “Izakaya Taigen” is known as a restaurant where you can enjoy Tsushima’s local cuisine and is popular with holy pilgrimage visitors.
Tsushima is rich in marine products, and dishes made with fresh seafood are the specialty. Fish caught in waters near Tsushima are particularly excellent, enjoyed through various cooking methods including sashimi, grilled fish, and simmered dishes. You can also enjoy Tsushima soba, stone-grilled dishes, and other local Tsushima cuisine.
The work “Angolmoa: Genkou Kassenki” also depicts the food culture of the time, and experiencing Tsushima’s cuisine helps deepen understanding of the work. Resting after tiring from walking during holy site pilgrimage, enjoying local dishes and drinks is one of the pleasures of the journey.
Emperor Antoku’s Tomb Reference Site – A Place of Heike Legend
Tsushima retains legends related to Emperor Antoku, and a tomb reference site exists. While Emperor Antoku is said to have entered the sea at the Battle of Dan-no-ura (1185), legend has it that he actually escaped to Tsushima, with an alleged tomb existing in the island.
The setting of “Angolmoa: Genkou Kassenki” (1274) is about 90 years after the fall of the Heike, but Tsushima retains strong Heike refugee legends and Emperor Antoku legends, becoming part of the island’s historical culture.
The tomb reference site sits in a quiet forest enveloped in solemn atmosphere. As a place to feel historical romance, adding it to your holy pilgrimage itinerary allows you to experience Tsushima’s multilayered history.
Holy Pilgrimage Events and Stamp Rally
To commemorate the 2018 anime broadcast, Tsushima City held a stamp rally for “Angolmoa: Genkou Kassenki.” This event became a topic of discussion as having “excessively high participation barriers,” which was due to the need to travel to Tsushima, a remote island.
The stamp rally ran until March 20, 2019, with courses set to visit historical sites and scenic spots within Tsushima. The kickoff event featured appearances by original author Takagi Nanahiko and voice cast members, generating significant excitement.
The participation barrier was indeed high, yet because of it the sense of achievement was also substantial, and many fans who actually visited Tsushima reported “the experience was even better than imagined.” The remote island location paradoxically created a special feeling, elevating the value of holy site pilgrimage.
While regular stamp rallies are not currently held, Tsushima City and tourism associations continue various forms of collaborative tourism promotions with “Angolmoa: Genkou Kassenki.” Checking official sites and SNS for the latest information before visiting is recommended.
Wata Tomi Shrine – Holy Site of Dragon Palace Legend
Wata Tomi Shrine is an ancient shrine in Toyotama Town, Tsushima City, known for its mystical scenery with torii gates standing in the sea. It is considered the birthplace of Dragon Palace legend and has long been worshipped as a shrine dedicated to Princess Toyotama.
While “Angolmoa: Genkou Kassenki” does not directly feature this as a setting, it is an important place for understanding Tsushima’s mythological background and spiritual culture. As a holy site where you can feel Tsushima’s history continuing from the age of gods, it has value adding to the pilgrimage itinerary.
The five torii gates standing in the sea appear to float on water at high tide, creating a fantastical landscape. It is popular as a photography spot and is one of the highlights of Tsushima tourism.
The area around the shrine faces a quiet inlet, and the gentle sound of waves soothes the heart. The peaceful scenery contrasting with memories of fierce Mongol invasion battles makes you feel Tsushima’s multifaceted nature.
Practical Advice for Holy Site Pilgrimage
Access Methods
Access to Tsushima is approximately 35 minutes by plane from Fukuoka Airport or about 4.5 hours by ferry from Hakata Port. Flights also operate from Nagasaki Airport.
Planes are operated by ANA (All Nippon Airways) and Oriental Air Bridge with several daily flights. Ferries are operated by Kyushu Yusen with both overnight and daytime service. If time permits, ferry travel is also recommended for enjoying travel atmosphere.
Renting a car is most convenient for getting around the island. Since major holy pilgrimage sites are scattered throughout the island, it is difficult to efficiently visit all of them using only public transportation. Car rental companies are available near Tsushima Airport and Izuhara Port.
Recommended Length of Stay and Pilgrimage Route
To fully enjoy holy site pilgrimage, a minimum stay of 2 nights and 3 days is recommended. While it is possible to efficiently visit major sites in 1 night and 2 days, 3 nights and 4 days is ideal if you want to take time for climbing and site visits.
An example of a recommended route:
Day 1
- Arrival at Tsushima Airport
- Pay respects at Izuhara Hachiman Shrine
- Stroll through Izuhara district
- Visit Komoda Beach and Komoda Hama Shrine
- Stay around Izuhara
Day 2
- Kaneda Castle trekking
- Visit Wata Tomi Shrine
- Tour other tourist spots in northern Tsushima
- Stay in northern or central area
Day 3
- Climb Shiratake (depending on physical condition and weather)
- Visit other historical sites
- Purchase souvenirs
- Depart from Tsushima Airport
This route is merely an example and should be customized according to interest and physical ability.
What to Bring and What to Wear
Prepare the following items for holy site pilgrimage:
- Comfortable walking shoes (trekking shoes if planning to climb)
- Easy-to-move clothing
- Rain gear (weather in Tsushima changes frequently)
- Sunscreen, hat
- Drinking water
- Camera/smartphone
- Mobile battery
- Maps or guidebooks
- “Angolmoa: Genkou Kassenki” comics (rereading on site increases emotional impact)
If planning to climb Kaneda Castle or Shiratake, full climbing equipment is necessary. Shiratake in particular has many rock formations, so gloves are helpful for safety.
Photography Etiquette and Notes
While photographing is a fun part of holy site pilgrimage, please follow this etiquette:
- Prioritize prayers at shrines and temples, being considerate of other worshippers
- Never trespass on private property
- Respect the lives of local people
- Always take trash with you
- Protect the natural environment (do not pick plants, do not write on rocks, etc.)
Tsushima is an island where rich nature and history remain. While enjoying holy site pilgrimage, do not forget environmental protection and respect for the community.
To Deepen Understanding of Tsushima’s History and Culture
Tsushima’s Multilayered History
The Mongol invasions depicted in “Angolmoa: Genkou Kassenki” are just one part of Tsushima’s history. As a border island since ancient times, Tsushima has inscribed unique history from ancient to modern times.
Ancient Era: As the “Tsushima Province” mentioned in Wei Chronicles, it was a trade hub with the continent. Bronze-age culture flourished, leaving many archaeological sites.
Asuka and Nara Periods: After the Battle of Baekgang River, defensive facilities like Kaneda Castle were built. Border guards were stationed, with poems mentioning Tsushima appearing in the Wanyō Poetry Collection.
Heian Period: Heike refugee legends and Emperor Antoku legends were born.
Kamakura Period: The Mongol invasions caused devastating damage, but the area recovered afterward.
Muromachi and Sengoku Periods: The area became a base for pirates, significantly affecting Japanese-Korean relations.
Edo Period: Tsushima Domain monopolized foreign relations and trade with Korea, playing important roles such as hosting “Korean Diplomatic Missions.”
Modern Era: The Tsushima Strait battle during the Russo-Japanese War made it a stage of conflict, and the Tsushima Fortress was built.
Understanding this multilayered history allows deeper appreciation of Tsushima as the setting for “Angolmoa: Genkou Kassenki.”
Legacy Left by the Mongol Invasions on Tsushima
While the Mongol invasions left deep scars on Tsushima, they were simultaneously an important event shaping the island’s identity. From memorial facilities like Komoda Hama Shrine to transmitted legends and even modern creative works like “Angolmoa: Genkou Kassenki,” the memory of the Mongol invasions is inherited in various forms.
The people of Tsushima have not forgotten the tragedy of the Mongol invasions, while simultaneously valuing exchange with the continent as a border island. This complex historical awareness creates the cultural richness of Tsushima.
“Angolmoa: Genkou Kassenki” Work Information
About the Original Manga
The original manga by Takagi Nanahiko is published by KADOKAWA Kadokawa Comics Ace.
- Tsushima Arc: 10 volumes complete
- Hakata Arc: 12 volumes published (serialization ongoing)
- Koan Campaign Arc: Launched 2024
The Tsushima arc depicts the battle of Tsushima during the Bunei Campaign, while the Hakata arc shows the Mongol forces ravaging Tsushima advancing to Hakata, depicting protagonist Kutsui Jinsaburo avenging Tsushima.
The work’s characteristics are thorough historical research and creation of compelling characters and narratives based on historical facts. It is highly praised for the power of combat scenes, the depth of character psychology, and the sense of historical weight in the brushwork.
About the Anime Version
A television anime was broadcast from July to September 2018. The 12-episode series depicts the Tsushima arc story, evaluated as faithfully recreating the original’s atmosphere.
The cast features skilled voice actors, with the leading role of Kutsui Jinsaburo voiced by a capable voice actor, breathing life into each character. Web programs were also produced, offering appreciated content such as discussions between voice actors and the original author.
Blu-ray and DVD box sets (upper and lower volumes) have been released with special features included. Official sites carried various campaign information.
Related Books and Materials
The following resources are helpful for further enjoying holy site pilgrimage:
- Tourism pamphlets issued by Tsushima City
- History books about the Mongol invasions
- Books about Tsushima’s history and culture
- Special features on Nagasaki Prefecture’s official tourism site “Nagasaki Island Trip”
Reading these materials beforehand enriches the holy pilgrimage experience.
Tsushima Tourism Association and Holy Pilgrimage Support
The General Incorporated Association Tsushima Tourism Products Association provides information and support for holy site pilgrimage related to “Angolmoa: Genkou Kassenki.” The official blog contains location introduction articles with detailed photos and commentary serving as references for holy pilgrimage.
The tourism association provides maps and guide materials for tourism spots including Mongol invasion related historical sites. Using this information when visiting makes efficient and enriching holy pilgrimage possible.
Additionally, guided tours by local guides are sometimes organized, allowing specialist explanations while visiting sites. Most guide tours require advance reservations, so check the official site.
Significance of Selection as “88 Japanese Anime Holy Sites to Visit”
In 2018, Tsushima City’s selection as one of “88 Japanese Anime Holy Sites to Visit” has significant meaning from an anime tourism perspective. This is a project by the General Incorporated Association Anime Tourism Association selecting regions as settings for anime works.
Tsushima’s selection demonstrates that “Angolmoa: Genkou Kassenki,” beyond mere entertainment, serves to transmit regional history and culture. When anime fans visit Tsushima through holy site pilgrimage, opportunities arise to experience historical events like the Mongol invasions and Tsushima’s culture.
Such cultural exchange contributes to regional development. Increased holy pilgrimage visitors revitalize the tourism industry while heightening interest in regional history and culture. The relationship between “Angolmoa: Genkou Kassenki” and Tsushima exemplifies anime and regions mutually enhancing their value.
Conclusion: Special Experience Gained from Holy Site Pilgrimage
Holy site pilgrimage for “Angolmoa: Genkou Kassenki” is not merely visiting the settings of anime and manga. It is a journey tracing memories of the Mongol invasions, an historically important event in Japanese history, while experiencing the multilayered history and culture of border island Tsushima.
Standing on Komoda Beach, reflecting on fierce battles fought here over 740 years ago, history becomes not merely past events but a story continuing to the present. Looking up at Kaneda Castle’s stone ramparts, gazing at the Tsushima Strait from Shiratake’s peak, you understand the weight of roles this island has carried.
Through pilgrimage, understanding of the work deepens while interest in Japanese history and culture expands. The experience of the world of “Angolmoa: Genkou Kassenki” and actual history intersecting in this special place of Tsushima becomes a lifelong memory.
Holy site pilgrimage to Tsushima in Nagasaki Prefecture may indeed have “high participation barriers.” However, the experience gained in return is special and valuable. In Tsushima, where beautiful nature, deep history, and warm people await, enjoy your unique holy pilgrimage journey.
