“Houkago Teibou Nisshi” Sacred Site Pilgrimage Complete Guide to Kumamoto Prefecture | Location Map and Model Regions Thoroughly Explained
Introduction: What is “Houkago Teibou Nisshi”?
“Houkago Teibou Nisshi” is a manga work by Yasuyuki Kosaka, and a television anime was broadcast from April to September 2020. It tells the story of Hina Tsurugi, the protagonist who moves from the city and joins the Teihou Club, awakening to the joy of fishing.
One of the major appeals of this work is that it faithfully depicts the beautiful coastal scenery of Kumamoto Prefecture. The background art modeled after real locations has become highly popular among fans as a target for “sacred site pilgrimage.”
This article provides a thorough explanation of the sacred site pilgrimage spots in Kumamoto Prefecture that served as the stage for “Houkago Teibou Nisshi.” It covers everything from actual visiting methods to recommended routes and surrounding tourist information—all the information useful for those planning a sacred site pilgrimage.
The Setting of the Work: About Ashikita Town, Kumamoto Prefecture
Overview and Geography of Ashikita Town
The main stage of “Houkago Teibou Nisshi” is Ashikita Town in Ashikita District, southern Kumamoto Prefecture. Ashikita Town is a town with a population of approximately 15,000 facing the Shiranui Sea, a calm inland sea in southern Kumamoto, and is characterized by beautiful coastlines and a warm climate.
The Shiranui Sea is a calm inland sea known as a fishing spot, where the type of fishing depicted in the work—such as pier fishing, sabiki fishing, and cast fishing—can actually be enjoyed.
Why Ashikita Town Was Chosen as the Setting
Original author Yasuyuki Kosaka is from Kumamoto Prefecture and is familiar with the scenery and fishing culture of Ashikita Town. The work features many real locations, and familiar landscapes to local people are carefully recreated in the anime.
During anime production, the production staff actually visited Ashikita Town for location scouting, and building arrangements, the color of the sea, and the atmosphere were faithfully depicted. This thorough realism enhances the charm of sacred site pilgrimage.
Detailed Major Sacred Site Pilgrimage Spots
1. Ashikita Town Hall Area
Appearance: Frequently appears as town scenery in Episode 1 and others
Ashikita Town Hall is located near the place that served as the model for “Unomi High School” in the work and is depicted as the center of town. The actual area around the town hall has an atmosphere quite similar to the townscape shown in the anime.
Access Information:
- Address: 2015 Ashikita, Ashikita Town, Ashikita District, Kumamoto Prefecture
- About 15 minutes on foot from “Shikiji Station” on the Hisatsu Orangeline Railway
- Parking: Public parking lot available near the town hall (use of nearby public parking lots recommended during pilgrimage)
Pilgrimage Points:
Since the town hall itself is a public facility, care must be taken not to interfere with business. You can enjoy the surrounding townscape and photograph the same angles as in the anime.
2. Shikiji Castle Ruins (Shiroki Mountain)
Appearance: Opening image, scenes overlooking the town, etc.
Shikiji Castle Ruins are located on a high point overlooking Ashikita Town and serve as the model for scenes in the work where the entire town is viewed from above. It is particularly impressively used in the opening animation and is a standard sacred site pilgrimage spot.
Access Information:
- Address: Shikiji, Ashikita Town, Ashikita District, Kumamoto Prefecture
- About 10 minutes by car from Shikiji Station, about 40 minutes on foot (mountain trail available)
- Parking: A few spaces available at the foot of the mountain
Pilgrimage Points:
From the mountain summit at approximately 200 meters elevation, you can see a panoramic view of the Shiranui Sea and the Ashikita Town townscape. The view at dusk is particularly spectacular and ideal for recreating a scene from the anime. The mountain trail is well-maintained, but comfortable clothes and shoes are recommended.
3. Otachimisaki Park
Appearance: Fishing scenes in Episode 3, camping scenes in Episode 7, etc.
Otachimisaki Park is a representative tourist spot of Ashikita Town and appears multiple times in “Houkago Teibou Nisshi” as an important stage. Within its vast grounds are a campground, beach, observation tower, and other facilities, and it is depicted in the work as a place where Teihou Club members are active.
Access Information:
- Address: 145 Taura Town, Ashikita Town, Ashikita District, Kumamoto Prefecture
- About 15 minutes on foot from “Tanoura Otachimisaki Park Station” on the Hisatsu Orangeline Railway
- About 10 minutes by car from “Taura IC” on the Kyushu Expressway
- Parking: Free parking available (approximately 500 spaces)
Pilgrimage Points:
The pier within the park is a spot where you can actually fish, and you can enjoy sabiki fishing and cast fishing just like in the work. However, if you do fish, it is important to prepare fishing equipment and follow local fishing rules.
The campground can also be actually used, allowing you to re-experience the camping scenes from the work. Reservations may be required depending on the season, so check in advance.
Facility Information:
- Hours: Vary by facility (Campground check-in 14:00, check-out 10:00)
- Admission: Free entry; campground use is paid (tent site 3,000 yen per section and up)
- Inquiries: 0966-87-0737 (Otachimisaki Park Management Office)
4. Michi-no-Eki Tanoura
Appearance: Shopping and rest scenes by members in Episode 5, etc.
Michi-no-Eki Tanoura is a service area along National Route 3, appearing in the anime as a place where club members stop by for fishing preparation and rest. Fresh local seafood and local specialty products are sold, and it is also an ideal rest spot for sacred site pilgrimages.
Access Information:
- Address: 162-1 Taura, Ashikita Town, Ashikita District, Kumamoto Prefecture
- About 3 minutes on foot from “Tanoura Otachimisaki Park Station” on the Hisatsu Orangeline Railway
- Along National Route 3
- Parking: Free parking available (73 regular cars, 7 large vehicles)
Pilgrimage Points:
The facility includes a tourism information corner for Ashikita Town where you may obtain sacred site pilgrimage maps. The restaurant area also offers local seafood cuisine, and you can enjoy regional limited gourmet items such as dekopon soft serve ice cream.
Operating Information:
- Hours: 9:00–18:00 (varies by store)
- Closed: Second Wednesday (no closure in August)
- Inquiries: 0966-87-9737
5. Shikiji Port and Tsuru-ga-Hama Beach Area
Appearance: Pier fishing scenes in Episode 1, beach scenes in Episode 6, etc.
The area around Shikiji Port is the stage for important scenes where the protagonist Hina first tries pier fishing. The actual pier configuration and surrounding buildings are faithfully reproduced in the anime, making this a core sacred site pilgrimage spot.
Access Information:
- Address: Shikiji, Ashikita Town, Ashikita District, Kumamoto Prefecture
- About 10 minutes on foot from “Shikiji Station” on the Hisatsu Orangeline Railway
- Parking: A few spaces available near the port
Pilgrimage Points:
The pier is an actual fishing spot, but care must be taken not to disturb local fishermen. Photography should be restrained, especially on weekends and early mornings when there are many fishermen.
The coastal walking path allows you to enjoy views of the calm Shiranui Sea and fully appreciate the atmosphere of the work.
6. Ashikita Kaihama Comprehensive Park
Appearance: Fishing competition scenes in Episode 9, etc.
Ashikita Kaihama Comprehensive Park is a park featuring vast lawn areas and a coastline, appearing in the work as a location where a fishing competition is held. There are areas where fishing is actually possible, and it is also popular with families.
Access Information:
- Address: 1400 Tsurugiyama, Ashikita Town, Ashikita District, Kumamoto Prefecture
- About 5 minutes by car from “Umioura Station” on the Hisatsu Orangeline Railway
- Parking: Free parking available
Pilgrimage Points:
Well-maintained walking paths throughout the park allow you to recall scenes from the anime while walking along the coastline. Picnic areas are also available, and bringing a packed lunch to spend a leisurely time is recommended.
7. Hisatsu Orangeline Railway Stations
Appearance: Opening, ending, travel scenes, etc.
The Hisatsu Orangeline Railway connects Yatsushiro Station to Sendai Station in Kagoshima Prefecture and appears in the work as the means of transportation used by club members during travel. In particular, stations such as “Shikiji Station,” “Tanoura Otachimisaki Park Station,” and “Umioura Station” appear in the work.
Access Information:
- Main stations: Shikiji Station, Tanoura Otachimisaki Park Station, Umioura Station
- Operating frequency: 1–2 trains per hour
- Fares: Vary by section (approximately 320 yen one-way between Shikiji and Tanoura Otachimisaki Park)
Pilgrimage Points:
Actually riding the Hisatsu Orangeline Railway and enjoying the same scenery as characters in the work is one of the charms of sacred site pilgrimage. Through the train windows, the beautiful scenery of the Shiranui Sea unfolds, and the view is particularly spectacular at dusk.
Some trains have featured collaboration projects with “Houkago Teibou Nisshi,” and posters and panels may be displayed in stations.
Model Courses for Sacred Site Pilgrimage
1-Day Course: Conquer Major Spots Plan
Duration: Approximately 8 hours (including travel time)
9:00 – Arrival at Shikiji Station
Arrive at Shikiji Station on the Hisatsu Orangeline Railway. Enjoy the atmosphere around the station and head toward the town hall area on foot.
9:30 – Ashikita Town Hall Area Exploration
Explore the center of town and photograph the townscape appearing in the anime.
10:30 – Shikiji Port and Pier
Head to the pier, which was the stage for an important scene in Episode 1. Immerse yourself in the world of the work while gazing at the sea.
12:00 – Lunch at Michi-no-Eki Tanoura
Travel and visit Michi-no-Eki Tanoura. Enjoy local cuisine and check out souvenirs.
13:30 – Otachimisaki Park
Spend the afternoon leisurely at Otachimisaki Park. Enjoy the view from the observation tower, and if possible, experience fishing at the pier.
16:00 – Shikiji Castle Ruins (if time and energy permit)
If time allows, climb Shikiji Castle Ruins before dusk and enjoy the spectacular panoramic view of the town.
17:30 – Return journey from Shikiji Station
Half-Day Course: Compact Pilgrimage Plan
Duration: Approximately 4 hours
13:00 – Arrival at Tanoura Otachimisaki Park Station
13:15 – Michi-no-Eki Tanoura
Light meal, rest, and information gathering.
14:00 – Otachimisaki Park
Thoroughly explore the main spot.
16:00 – Shikiji Station Area
Travel by train and explore the area around Shikiji Port and town hall.
17:00 – Return journey
2-Day Course: Thorough Enjoyment Plan
Day 1:
- Morning: Shikiji Station area, town hall, Shikiji Castle Ruins
- Afternoon: Shikiji Port, Tsuru-ga-Hama Beach area
- Evening: Camping at Otachimisaki Park (overnight stay)
Day 2:
- Morning: Early morning fishing experience at Otachimisaki Park
- Afternoon: Ashikita Kaihama Comprehensive Park, Michi-no-Eki Tanoura
- Evening: Return journey on the Hisatsu Orangeline Railway while enjoying the sunset
Access Methods and Transportation
Access from Kumamoto City
By Train:
- JR Kagoshima Main Line from Kumamoto Station to Yatsushiro Station (express in about 40 minutes)
- Transfer to Hisatsu Orangeline Railway at Yatsushiro Station
- Travel to Shikiji Station or Tanoura Otachimisaki Park Station (approximately 30–40 minutes)
Total Travel Time: Approximately 1.5–2 hours
Fare: Approximately 1,500–2,000 yen one-way
By Car:
- Use the Kyushu Expressway
- Exit at Matsushiro IC or Yatsushiro IC
- Head south on National Route 3 to Ashikita Town
Travel Time: Approximately 1–1.5 hours from Kumamoto City
Distance: Approximately 70 km
Access from Fukuoka and Kagoshima Areas
From Fukuoka:
- Kyushu Shinkansen to Shin-Yatsushiro Station (about 1 hour from Hakata)
- From Shin-Yatsushiro Station by taxi or rental car to Ashikita Town (about 30 minutes)
From Kagoshima:
- Head north on the Hisatsu Orangeline Railway
- About 1.5 hours from Sendai Station to Shikiji Station
Rental Car Information
There are few rental car shops in Ashikita Town, so it is recommended to rent around Yatsushiro Station or Kumamoto Station. Major rental car companies have offices in front of the stations.
Advantages of Rental Car:
- Can efficiently visit multiple spots
- Easier luggage transportation
- Less time constraints
Advantages of Public Transportation:
- Better appreciate the atmosphere of the work
- No driving fatigue
- Environmentally friendly
Precautions When Experiencing Fishing
Necessary Preparations and Equipment
Many people wish to experience actual fishing while doing a sacred site pilgrimage of “Houkago Teibou Nisshi.” The following preparations are necessary.
Basic Equipment:
- Fishing rod and reel (can also be rented or purchased locally)
- Rigging (sabiki rigging, cast fishing rigging, etc.)
- Bait (akameshi, okiami, etc.)
- Cooler box (for bringing caught fish home)
- Bucket
- Towel
Clothing:
- Clothes that don’t mind getting dirty
- Hat (sun protection)
- Non-slip shoes
- Sunscreen
How to Obtain Fishing Equipment
Local Fishing Shops:
Fishing shops in the Ashikita Town area sell rigging and bait. The staff can also tell you about recommended spots for the day and information about what fish are being caught.
Michi-no-Eki Tanoura:
Simple fishing equipment sets may be sold there.
Rental:
Otachimisaki Park may offer fishing rod rental services (check in advance).
Fishing Rules and Etiquette
- Always take trash with you: Fishing line and rigging garbage are dangerous for marine life.
- Do not enter no-entry areas: Some places like port facilities are off-limits for fishing.
- Prioritize local fishermen: Be considerate not to occupy spots where regular anglers fish.
- Be quiet: Especially at dawn and dusk.
- Handle caught fish properly: Release fish you don’t plan to eat; release small fish to protect resources.
- Safety first: Watch for falls from piers; life jacket use is recommended.
Fish Types by Season (Seasonal Availability)
Spring (March–May):
- Matsufish, horse mackerel, whiting, black sea bream
Summer (June–August):
- Horse mackerel, mackerel, whiting, small migratory fish
Fall (September–November):
- Horse mackerel, mackerel, cutlassfish, Japanese squid
Winter (December–February):
- Matsufish, rockfish, flounder
The fish that club members catch in the work can actually be caught during these seasons.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Yunoji Hot Spring
Located in the southern part of Ashikita Town, this hot spring area offers spectacular open-air baths with views of the Shiranui Sea. It is ideal for relieving the fatigue of sacred site pilgrimage.
Access: About 15 minutes by car from Shikiji Station
Day-trip bathing: Available at many inns (500–1,000 yen approximately)
Tsunagi Town Museum of Art
An art museum in the neighboring town of Tsunagi, centering on contemporary art displays. Located on a high point overlooking the sea, the building itself is beautiful.
Access: About 15 minutes on foot from “Tsunagi Station” on the Hisatsu Orangeline Railway
Hours: 10:00–17:00 (closed Tuesdays)
Admission: 500 yen for general admission
Hitoyoshi/Kuma Region
If you have time, extending to Hitoyoshi City inland is also recommended. You can fully enjoy the charms of southern Kumamoto Prefecture, including Kuma River boat rides, Hitoyoshi Castle ruins, and hot springs.
Access: About 1 hour from Yatsushiro Station on JR Hisatsu Line
Accommodation Information
Lodging Facilities in Ashikita Town
Otachimisaki Park Campground:
- Most atmospheric way to experience the work
- Tent sites, bungalows, log houses available
- Rates: Tent sites 3,000 yen and up, bungalows 5,000 yen and up
- Reservations: By phone or website
Minshuku and Ryokan:
There are several minshuku and ryokan in Ashikita Town offering cuisine with fresh seafood.
- Rates: Approximately 7,000–10,000 yen for 1 night with 2 meals
Lodging in Nearby Areas
Hotels in Yatsushiro City:
About 30 minutes by car from Ashikita Town, Yatsushiro City has numerous business and city hotels.
- Rates: Single rooms approximately 5,000–8,000 yen
- Advantage: Many restaurants for evening dining
Inns at Yunoji Hot Spring:
Hot spring inns offering hot springs and seafood cuisine.
- Rates: Approximately 10,000–20,000 yen for 1 night with 2 meals
- Advantage: Can relax in hot springs
Gourmet Information: Local Specialties of Ashikita Town
Fresh Seafood
Fish and shellfish caught in the Shiranui Sea are exquisite. Particularly recommended items follow.
Cutlassfish:
A specialty of Ashikita Town, richly flavored cutlassfish is excellent as sashimi or salt-grilled. Available at Michi-no-Eki Tanoura and local restaurants.
Horse Mackerel and Mackerel:
Fish frequently caught in the work. Fresh horse mackerel sashimi and salt-grilled mackerel are exceptional.
Oysters:
Seasonal (winter only), oysters from Ashikita Town are large and richly flavored. Oyster huts offering all-you-can-eat are also popular.
Dekopon
Kumamoto Prefecture, including Ashikita Town, is known as the birthplace of dekopon. Michi-no-Eki Tanoura sells sweets and juice made with dekopon.
Recommendation: Dekopon soft-serve ice cream (available at Michi-no-Eki Tanoura)
Local Restaurants
Seafood Restaurants:
Around Shikiji Station and along National Route 3, there are restaurants offering set meals with fresh seafood.
- Prices: Seafood set meals approximately 1,000–1,500 yen
Ramen Shops:
Shops serving rich tonkotsu ramen following the Kumamoto ramen tradition.
Souvenir Information
Work-Related Merchandise
Michi-no-Eki Tanoura:
Collaboration goods with “Houkago Teibou Nisshi” may be sold. Check for limited items such as postcards and clear files.
Hisatsu Orangeline Railway Stations:
Some stations display posters and panels from the work, becoming memorial photo spots.
Local Specialty Products
Processed Seafood Products:
- Dried cutlassfish
- Shirasu (whitebait)
- Seaweed
- Salted fish roe
Dekopon-Related Products:
- Dekopon jelly
- Dekopon juice
- Dekopon jam
Local Sake:
Abundant selection of Kumamoto Prefecture sake and shochu.
Precautions and Etiquette When Visiting
Consideration for Local Residents
Sacred site pilgrimage is an enjoyable experience, but Ashikita Town is a place where local people live before it is a tourist destination. Keep the following points in mind.
- Do not trespass on private property: Some locations appearing in the work may be private property.
- Avoid noise: Be especially quiet during early morning and night hours.
- Take trash with you: Always take your trash home to keep the town beautiful.
- Follow traffic rules: Avoid illegal parking and photography in dangerous locations.
- Use local shops: Where possible, eat and shop at local businesses to contribute to the local economy.
Photography Etiquette
- Respect people’s privacy: Be considerate that local residents don’t appear in your photos.
- Follow facility rules: Do not photograph in areas where photography is prohibited.
- Avoid tripod use: Using tripods on sidewalks or narrow spaces obstructs pedestrian traffic.
- Avoid prolonged occupation: Be considerate of other tourists and pilgrims.
Safety Precautions
- Prevent accidents at sea: Piers and rock areas are slippery, so be careful. Life jacket use is recommended.
- Heat stroke prevention: Especially in summer, drink water frequently.
- Check weather: Coastal weather changes quickly, so check the forecast in advance.
- Note sunset times: Especially in winter when days are short, act early.
Seasonal Recommendations for Visiting
Spring (March–May)
Advantages:
- Mild, pleasant climate
- Enjoy spring flowers and blossoms
- Beginning of fishing high season
Disadvantages:
- Possible crowding during Golden Week
Recommendation Level: ★★★★★
Summer (June–August)
Advantages:
- Can enjoy beach swimming
- Experience the same seasonal atmosphere as the anime broadcast
- Summer fishing season
Disadvantages:
- Very hot (heat stroke caution)
- Rainy rainy season (early June–early July)
Recommendation Level: ★★★☆☆
Fall (September–November)
Advantages:
- Most comfortable climate
- Enjoy autumn delicacies
- Cutlassfish and other fall fishing season
- Enjoy autumn foliage (November)
Disadvantages:
- Typhoon season (September–October)
Recommendation Level: ★★★★★
Winter (December–February)
Advantages:
- Fewer tourists, quieter
- Delicious winter cuisine like oysters
- Clear air with beautiful scenery
Disadvantages:
- Cold (though relatively warm in southern Kumamoto)
- Short days
- Possible facility closures
Recommendation Level: ★★★☆☆
Overall Best Season: Spring (April–May) and Fall (October–November) are recommended.
Tips for Enjoying Sacred Site Pilgrimage More
Prior Preparation
- Rewatch the anime: Watching the anime again before visiting enhances the emotional impact at the location.
- Obtain sacred site pilgrimage maps: Research information on the internet and fan sites.
- Research photography angles: Save anime screenshots to make it easier to photograph from the same angles.
- Check weather forecast: Coastal weather is changeable, so check carefully.
How to Enjoy On Site
- Take your time: Rather than rushing, savor the atmosphere of the town slowly.
- Interact with locals: Enjoying conversation with locals at tackle shops and restaurants is recommended.
- Try actual fishing: It is the best way to experience the world of the work.
- Enjoy seasonal scenery: Appreciate the landscape unique to the time of year you visit.
Social Media Sharing
The following hashtags are useful when sharing your sacred site pilgrimage records on social media.
- #放課後ていぼう日誌
- #ていぼう日誌
- #聖地巡礼
- #芦北町
- #熊本
- #肥薩おれんじ鉄道
You can also reference posts by other fans and exchange information.
Conclusion: The Appeal of “Houkago Teibou Nisshi” Sacred Site Pilgrimage
The sacred site pilgrimage of “Houkago Teibou Nisshi” has value beyond merely visiting anime filming locations. The beautiful nature of Kumamoto Prefecture’s Ashikita Town, warm people, delicious seafood, and the experiential joy of fishing—all these combine to create a special journey.
By actually visiting the town you learned about through anime, your understanding of the work deepens, and you can rediscover the appeal of rural Japan. It may also become an opportunity to encounter a new hobby like fishing.
Ashikita Town is not a large tourist destination, but precisely because of this, it retains unspoiled Japanese landscape and an unhurried flow of time. Why not step away from your busy daily life and spend leisurely time immersed in the world of “Houkago Teibou Nisshi”?
Through sacred site pilgrimage, your love for the work will deepen further, and Kumamoto Prefecture’s Ashikita Town will become a new “special place” to treasure. And remember to conduct your pilgrimage with respect for the region and adherence to proper etiquette.
May your sacred site pilgrimage become a wonderful memory.
