Do It Yourself!! -どぅー・いっと・ゆあせるふ- Niigata Prefecture Sanjo City Sacred Site Pilgrimage Complete Guide
In autumn 2022, the original TV anime “Do It Yourself!! -どぅー・いっと・ゆあせるふ-” (hereafter, DIY), set in Sanjo City, Niigata Prefecture, is a coming-of-age story about high school girls engaging in craftsmaking. This article comprehensively covers all information necessary for sacred site pilgrimage, including detailed information about locations featured in the work, access methods, related events, and food information.
Original TV Anime “Do It Yourself!! -どぅー・いっと・ゆあせるふ-“
“Do It Yourself!!” is an original TV anime produced by PINE JAM that aired all 12 episodes from October to December 2022. Set in Sanjo City, Niigata Prefecture, where craftsmaking is thriving, it is a daily-life anime depicting the growth of six high school girls through their DIY club activities.
The protagonist, Yui Serufu, is an unskilled yet passionate high school girl devoted to DIY. Her childhood friend Suride Mika (nicknamed Purin) is an elite student attending a technical college. Centered around these two, six members including Yasa Kurei, Sachi Kokoro, Job-ko K. Brighton (Job-ko), and Sera Takumi (She) deepen their friendship through their activities in the DIY club.
The work’s distinctive feature is its careful depiction of actual DIY tasks. Tool usage and manufacturing processes that even beginners can attempt are described in detail, allowing viewers to learn DIY alongside the characters. Additionally, many actual landscapes and spots in Sanjo City appear throughout, and the work is highly evaluated for promoting the region’s charm.
Sanjo City is known as a “city of craftsmaking” for its metal processing industry, perfectly matching the work’s theme. This regional characteristic adds depth to the narrative and provides persuasive background for the characters’ growth.
Why Sanjo City Was Chosen as the Setting
Located in nearly the center of Niigata Prefecture, Sanjo City is an industrial city with a population of approximately 90,000. With metal processing traditions continuing from the Edo period, it is nationally known as a production site for metal products such as kitchen knives, sickles, and shovels. In modern times, it manufactures a wide range of metal products including outdoor goods and tools.
This characteristic as a “city of craftsmaking” made it ideal as a setting for an anime themed around DIY. In the work, characters visit local tool shops and hardware stores, with Sanjo City’s industrial culture naturally woven into the narrative.
Sanjo City has been recognized as one of “88 Japanese Anime Sacred Sites Worth Visiting,” drawing attention as a hub for anime tourism. The city actively collaborates with the work and has established systems welcoming sacred site pilgrimage visitors.
Detailed Introduction of Locations Featured in the Work
Osaki Mountain Park (Step 1)
Osaki Mountain Park served as an important scene where Serufu and Purin reunite in Episode 1 “Step 1.” From the park’s observation deck, you can overlook the Sanjo cityscape and enjoy the view from the same angle as in the work.
The stairs, railings, benches and other elements leading to the observation deck are faithfully depicted, making it a popular first stop for sacred site pilgrims. The scenery at dusk particularly strongly conveys the work’s atmosphere.
Access: Approximately 15 minutes by car from JR Tsubame Sanjo Station, or approximately 40 minutes on foot. There is a parking lot within the park.
Ichinoki Shopping Arcade
The Ichinoki shopping arcade, appearing multiple times in the work, serves as the central setting for daily scenes where DIY club members shop and stroll. It is a retro shopping arcade retaining Showa-era atmosphere where many stores actually operate.
The arcade, streetlights, and shop exteriors are faithfully depicted in detail. The scene in front of Kanegi Fruits is particularly impressive, with many fans taking photos from the same angle.
The shopping arcade regularly holds collaborative events and stamp rallies, with the entire community supporting the work. Simply walking through the arcade creates the sensation of entering the anime’s world.
Access: Approximately 10 minutes on foot from JR Higashi Sanjo Station.
Kanegi Fruits
An actual fruit shop within the Ichinoki shopping arcade, its exterior is faithfully depicted in the work. The fruits and signage displayed at the shop are identical to those in the anime, making it one of the popular sacred site pilgrimage spots.
Since it is an actively operating store, visitors can enjoy shopping when visiting. It carries seasonal fruits and local specialty products, and purchasing souvenirs here is recommended as a memento of sacred site pilgrimage.
Access: Within the Ichinoki shopping arcade, approximately 10 minutes on foot from Higashi Sanjo Station.
Igarashi River Riverbed
The Igarashi River riverbed appears in scenes where characters take walks and converse. The vast riverbed and distant mountain views are impressive, offering a sense of openness.
Particularly during cherry blossom season, cherry trees beautifully bloom along the riverbed, allowing recreation of spring scenes from the work. A cycling road is also maintained, making it ideal for leisurely strolls.
Access: Approximately 15 minutes on foot from JR Higashi Sanjo Station, with multiple access points.
Hachiman Park
Hachiman Park is an important location appearing multiple times in the work. The park’s stage, playground equipment, benches and other elements are depicted in detail, serving as the setting for characters’ daily scenes.
Particularly around the park’s stage, important event scenes from the work take place, making it a must-see spot for fans. It is also a recreational area for local residents, where you can see children actually playing.
Access: Approximately 20 minutes on foot from JR Higashi Sanjo Station.
Tsubame Sanjo Trike
A facility exhibiting and selling industrial products from the Tsubame Sanjo region, appearing in work scenes related to craftsmaking. Knives, metal products, and outdoor goods manufactured in Sanjo and Tsubame cities are displayed, allowing visitors to learn about the region’s industry.
Tools and materials useful for DIY are also sold, making it ideal for preparing for actual DIY experiences alongside sacred site pilgrimage.
Access: Directly connected to JR Tsubame Sanjo Station, approximately 1 minute walk from the station.
Nozumi Beach
The beach scenes in summer episodes are modeled after Nozumi Beach in Nagaoka City, Niigata Prefecture. While slightly distant from Sanjo City, many fans visit as the setting for memorable scenes of characters enjoying the sea.
With a beautiful sandy beach facing the Japan Sea, you can actually enjoy swimming during summer. It is a spot where you can fully experience the summer atmosphere from the work.
Access: Approximately 40 minutes by car from JR Tsubame Sanjo Station, located in Nagaoka City.
Yahiko Mountain Panorama Tower
The panorama tower near the summit of Yahiko Mountain appears in scenes such as school excursions. From the 634-meter-high Yahiko Mountain, you can overlook the Echigo Plain, with a spectacular view extending to Sado Island on clear days.
You can access the summit by transferring between the ropeway and panorama tower, enjoying scenery changing with each season. The autumn foliage season is particularly beautiful, allowing experience of the work’s seasonal atmosphere.
Access: Approximately 30 minutes by car from JR Tsubame Sanjo Station, using the Yahiko Mountain Ropeway.
Sanjo Spice Research Institute
Appearing as a local restaurant in the work, it is depicted in scenes where characters dine. An actually existing store providing curry and other spice dishes.
The store’s interior and exterior are faithfully reproduced from the work, making it a valuable spot where you can enjoy sacred site pilgrimage while dining.
Access: Within Sanjo City, it is recommended to confirm operating hours in advance.
Featured Food Introductions
Sanjo City is charming not only for craftsmaking but also for food. Local food culture appears in the work, becoming one of the pleasures of sacred site pilgrimage.
Curry Ramen
Curry ramen is famous as a local specialty food of Sanjo City. Said to have originated in the 1950s, it is served at many ramen shops throughout the city. This unique combination of curry soup with Chinese noodles creates a taste you won’t forget once tried.
The work mentions it as a local specialty, and it is a must-try dish during sacred site pilgrimage. Different shops offer different flavors, so visiting multiple shops is another way to enjoy it.
Sanjo Sweets
Around the Ichinoki shopping arcade, beginning with Kanegi Fruits, there are traditional Japanese confectionery shops and fruit shops. Sweets made with seasonal fruits and traditional Japanese confections beloved locally are perfect for rest breaks during sacred site pilgrimage.
Local Sake
Niigata Prefecture is a sake production region, and several sake breweries exist around Sanjo City. For adult sacred site pilgrimage visitors, enjoying local sake is recommended. Local sake can also be purchased at Tsubame Sanjo Trike.
Ongoing Events and Previous Collaborative Campaigns
Since the anime broadcast, Sanjo City has implemented various collaborative events and campaigns.
Stamp Rally
In February 2023, a collaborative stamp rally was held at the Ichinoki shopping arcade, where participants received limited-edition color papers as gifts. The format involved collecting stamps by visiting multiple arcade shops, with many fans participating.
Such events occur irregularly, so it is recommended to check Sanjo City’s official website and tourism association information.
Sacred Site Pilgrimage Taxi
Hinomaru Kanko Taxi Co., Ltd. operates dedicated taxis for “Do It Yourself!!” sacred site pilgrimage. With anime-designed wrapping taxis, you can efficiently visit major sacred sites.
Drivers are knowledgeable about the work, guiding you to highlights and photography spots at each location, providing peace of mind even for first-time sacred site pilgrims. Advance reservations are required, so inquiring before your visit is recommended.
Sacred Site Certification Plates
Sanjo City is recognized as one of “88 Japanese Anime Sacred Sites Worth Visiting,” with certification plates installed throughout the city. These plates are also popular as memorial photography spots, with many fans photographing them as proof of sacred site pilgrimage.
Permanent Exhibitions
Some tourist facilities and public facilities in Sanjo City display panels and goods related to the work. The latest exhibition information can be confirmed on Sanjo City’s official website.
“Do It Yourself!! -どぅー・いっと・ゆあせるふ-” Location Exploration Navigation
Here are model courses for efficient sacred site pilgrimage.
1-Day Course (Using Public Transportation)
Morning:
- Arrival at JR Tsubame Sanjo Station (9:00)
- Tsubame Sanjo Trike visit (9:15-10:00)
- Move to JR Higashi Sanjo Station (10:30)
- Ichinoki shopping arcade exploration (11:00-12:30)
- Lunch at Kanegi Fruits or arcade shops
Afternoon:
- Hachiman Park (13:30-14:30)
- Igarashi River riverbed (15:00-16:00)
- Shopping at Ichinoki shopping arcade (16:30-17:30)
- Return journey from JR Higashi Sanjo Station
1-Day Course (By Car)
Morning:
- Osaki Mountain Park (9:00-10:00)
- Tsubame Sanjo Trike (10:30-11:30)
- Lunch at Ichinoki shopping arcade (12:00-13:00)
Afternoon:
- Hachiman Park (13:30-14:30)
- Igarashi River riverbed (15:00-15:30)
- Sanjo Spice Research Institute (16:00-17:00)
- Heading toward Yahiko Mountain area (if time permits)
2-Day Course
Day 1:
Visit sacred sites in the city center, staying overnight near the Ichinoki shopping arcade. In the evening, enjoy Niigata sake and local cuisine at a local izakaya.
Day 2:
Visit Yahiko Mountain Panorama Tower, Nozumi Beach, and other more distant spots. If time allows, also visit metalworking facilities in Tsubame City.
Other Ways to Enjoy Sanjo City
Beyond sacred site pilgrimage, Sanjo City offers charming spots and experiences.
Sanjo Blacksmith Training Hall
A facility where you can experience traditional metalworking, Sanjo’s heritage industry. Under craftspeople’s guidance, you can actually create paper knives or kitchen knives. As a “craftsmaking experience” aligned with DIY spirit, it allows deeper understanding of the work’s theme.
Michi-no-Eki Tsubame Sanjo Local Products Center
A large facility where you can purchase local specialty products and industrial goods. Knives, metal products, and outdoor goods from the Sanjo and Tsubame regions are abundantly available. Perfect for souvenir shopping.
Sanjo Marche
A local morning market held on the first Sunday of every month. Fresh vegetables, fruits, and processed foods are displayed, and you can enjoy interaction with local people. Visiting on event days allows fuller experience of the region’s charm.
Hot Spring Facilities
The Sanjo area has several day-use hot spring facilities. After tiring from sacred site pilgrimage, relaxing at a hot spring is recommended.
Access Information
By Train
From Tokyo area:
- Joetsu Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Tsubame Sanjo Station (approximately 2 hours)
- Conventional line from JR Higashi Sanjo Station (approximately 5 minutes)
From Osaka/Nagoya area:
- Combining Hokuriku Shinkansen and Joetsu Shinkansen to Tsubame Sanjo Station
By Car
From Kanto area:
- Kan’etsu Expressway to Hokuriku Expressway Sanjo Tsubame IC (approximately 3.5 hours from Tokyo)
From Kansai area:
- Hokuriku Expressway to Sanjo Tsubame IC (approximately 6 hours from Osaka)
By Air
Approximately 1 hour by car from Niigata Airport, or approximately 1.5 hours via airport limousine bus and train transfers.
Sacred Site Pilgrimage Precautions and Etiquette
Observing certain precautions and etiquette is important for enjoying sacred site pilgrimage.
Consideration for Private Property
Among spots featured in the work are private lands and operating businesses. When photographing or visiting, be mindful not to cause trouble to surroundings. Particularly in residential areas, attention to noise is necessary.
Confirming Operating Hours
When visiting shops or facilities, confirm their operating hours and days off in advance. Individual shops in the Ichinoki shopping arcade may have irregular closures.
Taking Trash Home
To keep sacred sites beautiful, always take trash with you. Sacred site pilgrimage is only possible through the cooperation of local residents.
Obeying Traffic Rules
Avoid being so absorbed in photography that you dart into roads or hinder traffic. Particularly in shopping arcades where bicycles and pedestrians are numerous, consideration for surroundings is necessary.
Gratitude to the Community
Remember to be grateful for the warm welcome local residents give pilgrims, and contribute to the local economy by enjoying shopping and dining at local shops.
Accommodation Information
Within Sanjo City and surrounding areas, various types of accommodation are available.
Business Hotels
Several business hotels near JR Higashi Sanjo Station offer affordable accommodations, convenient as sacred site pilgrimage bases.
Hot Spring Inns
Hot spring inns exist in surrounding areas including Yahiko Hot Spring and Iwamuro Hot Spring. Enjoying hot springs by traveling slightly further is recommended.
Guest Houses
Guest houses are increasingly appearing in Sanjo City, allowing interaction with other sacred site pilgrims.
Nearby Tourist Spots
Here are nearby tourist spots to visit alongside sacred site pilgrimage.
Yahiko Shrine
One of Niigata Prefecture’s representative shrines, located at the base of Yahiko Mountain. Popular as a power spot surrounded by august shrine buildings and beautiful nature.
Teradomari Fish Market Street
A market street displaying fresh seafood from the Japan Sea, known as the “Uogyo Ame Yokocho.” Approximately 30 minutes by car from Sanjo City.
Tsubame City Industrial History Museum
A facility in adjacent Tsubame City where you can learn about the region’s metal processing history. It allows deeper understanding of the Sanjo and Tsubame regions’ craftsmaking culture.
Best Seasons
Sacred site pilgrimage can be enjoyed year-round, with different charms in each season.
Spring (March-May)
The cherry trees along Igarashi River are beautiful, allowing recreation of spring scenes from the work. The mild climate is ideal for strolling.
Summer (June-August)
You can actually experience beach swimming from scenes at Nozumi Beach. However, Niigata summers are humid, requiring heatstroke precautions.
Autumn (September-November)
Yahiko Mountain’s autumn foliage is beautiful, coinciding with the anime’s broadcast period. Pleasant weather makes it the ideal season for sacred site pilgrimage.
Winter (December-February)
Sacred site pilgrimage in snowy scenery has charm, but caution against heavy snow and icy road surfaces is necessary. Prepare winter gear.
SNS Usage Tips
Points for sharing sacred site pilgrimage memories on SNS.
Hashtags
Using hashtags like “#DIY Sacred Site Pilgrimage,” “#DoItYourself,” “#Sanjo City” allows interaction with other fans.
Comparison Posts
Posting anime scenes alongside actual photos conveys high reproduction accuracy. However, consider copyright and minimize screenshot use.
Location Information
Adding location information to each spot provides reference for other sacred site pilgrims.
Conclusion
Sanjo City, Niigata Prefecture, a sacred site of “Do It Yourself!! -どぅー・いっと・ゆあせるふ-,” is a charming city where you can fully savor the work’s world. With traditions of craftsmaking alive in the streets, actual locations featured in the work, local residents warmly welcoming visitors, and delicious food, sacred site pilgrimage offers abundant pleasures.
While the city center area centered on the Ichinoki shopping arcade can be explored on foot, visiting somewhat distant spots like Osaki Mountain Park and Yahiko Mountain is convenient by car or taxi. Using the sacred site pilgrimage taxi allows efficient visits to major spots.
Through the work’s depiction of DIY spirit, the joy of craftsmaking, and the importance of friendship, sacred site pilgrimage allows you to actually feel these themes. Visiting Sanjo City deepens sympathy with the activities of Serufu, Purin, and other characters, further enriching understanding of the work.
Sanjo City is recognized as one of “88 Japanese Anime Sacred Sites Worth Visiting,” with diverse events and collaborations anticipated. While checking official websites and tourism association information, create your own sacred site pilgrimage plan.
Enjoy the special experience of the anime world and reality intersecting in Sanjo City, the “city of craftsmaking.” Surely, your affection for the work will deepen and interest in DIY will grow.