Nagi no Asukara: Mie Prefecture Holy Site Pilgrimage Complete Guide | All Spots, Access, Model Routes, Thorough Explanation
Introduction: The Deep Connection Between “Nagi no Asukara” and Kumano City, Mie Prefecture
“Nagi no Asukara” (Nagi Asu), produced by P.A.WORKS and aired from October 2013 to March 2014, is a work depicting the wavering romantic feelings of adolescent boys and girls set in a world where people live both in the sea and on land. The beautiful seascapes and delicate human drama captured the hearts of many fans, and over 10 years after its broadcast, it continues to enjoy strong popularity.
The setting model for this work is Kumano City, Mie Prefecture. Located in the southeast of the Kii Peninsula, Kumano City is known for the World Heritage Site “Kumano Kodo” and “Onigajo,” among other scenic areas. Beginning with the former Hatasu Elementary School, which became the model for Namiji Middle School appearing in the work, actual landscapes such as Shingashira Beach, Futakijima, and Ōdomari are faithfully recreated in the anime.
This article comprehensively explains detailed information for 17 major spots, access methods, efficient pilgrimage routes, and the latest collaboration project information for fans planning a holy site pilgrimage of “Nagi no Asukara,” covering all necessary information for an actual visit.
Complete Map of Holy Sites in Kumano City, Mie Prefecture
Distribution and Geographic Characteristics of Holy Sites
The holy sites of “Nagi no Asukara” are scattered along the coastal areas of Kumano City, Mie Prefecture, and the adjacent Kii Nagashima District of Kihoku Town. The main holy site areas are as follows:
- Hatasu District, Kumano City: The core of holy sites centered around the former Hatasu Elementary School (model of Namiji Middle School)
- Shingashira District, Kumano City: Shingashira Beach, Sayamart Shingashira Branch, and other important scenes from the work
- Futakijima District, Kumano City: Beautiful coastal scenery reminiscent of the work’s world
- Ōdomari District, Kumano City: The coastline around Onigajo appears in the work
- Kii Nagashima District, Kihoku Town: Akahane Crossing, Kiryū Shipyard, etc.
These spots are dispersed over 20km or more along Kumano City’s coastline, so careful planning is extremely important for an efficient pilgrimage.
[Must-Visit] Former Hatasu Elementary School (Model of Namiji Middle School and Mihama Middle School)
The absolute must-see for holy site pilgrimage is the former Hatasu Elementary School, which became the model for Namiji Middle School, where Hikari and others attended, and Mihama Middle School, the land-based school.
Basic Information:
- Location: Hatasu Town, Kumano City, Mie Prefecture
- Access: About 30 minutes by bus from Kumano City Station, get off at “Hatasu-guchi,” then about 10 minutes on foot
- Viewing: Only exterior viewing is possible (entry into the school building is prohibited)
- Parking: Several spaces available in nearby areas
The wooden school building standing on a high ground overlooking the sea is precisely as shown in the anime. The exterior of the building, the schoolyard, and the sea view from the school can all be experienced in the work’s atmosphere. However, it is now a closed school, and entry into the building is not permitted. When photographing from outside the grounds, please be considerate of local residents’ lives and view quietly.
Holy Site Spots in the Shingashira Beach Area
Shingashira Beach
The model for the beautiful coastline that appears many times in the work. Characterized by highly transparent water and white sand, it has also been selected as one of “Japan’s 100 Best Shores.”
- Location: Shingashira Town, Kumano City, Mie Prefecture
- Access: About 20 minutes by bus from Kumano City Station, get off at “Shingashira Port” immediately
- Features: Crowded with many tourists during the swimming season (July-August)
Sayamart Shingashira Branch
This local shop is considered the model for the convenience store where Mikai and others shopped in the work. It is actually a private shop that supports the daily lives of local residents, an important community infrastructure.
Notes: As it is an operating private shop, please refrain from staying a long time for purposes other than shopping, and avoid photography inside the store. Exterior photography should also be conducted with consideration for the shop owner and other customers.
Holy Sites in the Futakijima and Ōdomari Areas
Futakijima Fishing Port Vicinity
One of the models for the sea village scenery. Characterized by a small fishing port and intricate coastlines.
- Access: About 40 minutes by bus from Kumano City Station, get off at “Futakijima”
- Highlights: Fishing port atmosphere, views from the breakwater
Onigajo Vicinity
The coastline around Onigajo, registered as a World Heritage Site, also appears in the work. The contrast between the rugged rock formations and blue sea is striking.
- Location: Kimoto Town, Kumano City, Mie Prefecture
- Access: About 5 minutes by car from Kumano City Station, or about 20 minutes on foot
- Admission: Free (separate fees for center facility use)
Holy Sites in Kii Nagashima District, Kihoku Town
Akahane Crossing
The model for a crossing that appears as an impressive scene in the work.
- Location: Kii Nagashima Ward, Kihoku Town, Kita-Muro District, Mie Prefecture
- Access: About 10 minutes on foot from JR Kii Nagashima Station
- Caution: This is an active crossing, so please be extremely careful about safety during photography
Kiryū Shipyard
The scenery of the shipyard appears in the work. As it is an operating facility, viewing should be limited to outside the grounds.
Complete Access Method Guide
Access by Public Transportation
From the Nagoya Area
Using Limited Express Nanki (Recommended Route)
- Limited Express “Nanki” from Nagoya Station to Kumano City Station in about 3 hours 30 minutes
- Fare: About ¥6,000 per person (unreserved seat)
- Frequency: 3-4 trains per day approximately
Using Local Lines (When You Have Time to Spare)
- Nagoya Station → Kameyama Station → Taki Station → Kumano City Station
- Travel time: About 5-6 hours
- Fare: About ¥3,000 per person
From Osaka and Kansai Area
- Kintetsu Limited Express from Osaka-Namba Station to Matsusaka Station in about 1 hour 40 minutes
- Transfer to JR Kisei Main Line at Matsusaka Station, about 2 hours to Kumano City Station
- Total travel time: About 4 hours
- Fare: About ¥5,000 per person
Secondary Transportation Within Kumano City
Route Bus
Kumano City operates the “Oboro Bus” connecting various districts in the city.
- Operation: Weekdays only (closed Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays)
- Fare: About ¥200-500 depending on the section
- Frequency: Only a few buses per day
- Schedule: Check the Kumano City Tourism Association’s official website
Caution: With very limited bus frequency, thorough planning is essential for holy site pilgrimage using only public transportation. Missing a bus can result in several hours of waiting.
Access by Car (Recommended)
Since holy sites are scattered over a wide area, visiting by rental car or personal vehicle is the most efficient.
From Nagoya Area
- Tomei Expressway → Ise Expressway → Kisei Expressway → National Route 42
- Travel time: About 3 hours 30 minutes
- Distance: About 200km
From Osaka Area
- Hanwa Expressway → Kisei Expressway → National Route 42
- Travel time: About 3 hours
- Distance: About 180km
Rental Car Information
- Around Kumano City Station: Limited rental car shops (advance reservation essential)
- Matsusaka Station / Ise City Station: Multiple rental car companies available (option to rent here and travel)
- Estimated daily fee: About ¥5,000-8,000
Pilgrimage by Bicycle
Some fans conduct pilgrimages by bicycle (including rental bikes), but the following points require attention:
- Long distances between holy sites (about 10km between Hatasu and Shingashira alone)
- National Route 42 along the coast has heavy traffic, and some sections lack sidewalks
- Significant ups and downs in some areas
- Suited for those with time and physical stamina to spare
Efficient Holy Site Pilgrimage Model Routes
One-Day Car Plan (Recommended)
Total Time: About 6-7 hours
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8:00 Depart from Kumano City Station (rental car)
8:15 Onigajo (30 minutes)
9:00 Shingashira Beach, Sayamart Shingashira Branch (1 hour)
10:30 Former Hatasu Elementary School (1 hour)
12:00 Lunch (around Kumano City Station or rest stop)
13:30 Futakijima Fishing Port vicinity (1 hour)
15:00 Kihoku Town, Akahane Crossing, Kiryū Shipyard (1 hour)
16:30 Arrive back at Kumano City Station
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This route allows you to efficiently cover major spots. Adjust photography and viewing time according to your own preferences.
Two-Day Leisurely Plan
Day 1
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Morning: Arrive at Kumano City, gather information at tourism information center
Afternoon: Pilgrimage focusing on Shingashira Beach area and former Hatasu Elementary School
Evening: Check in at accommodation near Kumano City or Shingashira Beach
Night: Enjoy local seafood cuisine
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Day 2
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Morning: Pilgrimage of holy sites in Futakijima and Ōdomari areas
Afternoon: Kihoku Town area or sightseeing at Onigajo and other scenic spots
Evening: Head home
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By staying overnight, you can enjoy beautiful sea views at sunrise and sunset, and immerse yourself more deeply in the work’s atmosphere.
Public Transportation Plan (Advanced Users)
Prerequisites: Only possible on weekdays, advance confirmation of bus schedules essential
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8:00 Kumano City Station
8:30 Bus to Shingashira Port (about 20 minutes)
9:00-11:00 Explore Shingashira Beach area
11:30 Bus to Hatasu-guchi (about 10 minutes)
12:00-14:00 View former Hatasu Elementary School (including round-trip walk)
14:30 Bus back to Kumano City Station
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Caution: With limited bus frequency, it is extremely difficult to visit Futakijima and Kihoku Town areas using only public transportation. Have plenty of time and consider using taxis.
Kumano City Tourism Association Official Collaboration Projects
Latest Collaboration Information for 2025
The Kumano City Tourism Association continues official collaborations with “Nagi no Asukara.” At the 10th anniversary event in 2024, over 1,500 fans visited, creating a major buzz.
2025 Collaboration Measures (Starting January 25, 2025)
- Original merchandise sales
- Distribution of holy site pilgrimage maps (Kumano City Tourism Information Center)
- Collaboration-wrapped bus operation (limited period)
- Display of panels and life-size standees
- Digital stamp rally
For details, check the latest information on the Kumano City Tourism Association’s official website (https://www.kumano-kankou.info/).
Utilizing Kumano City Station and Tourism Information Center
Kumano City Tourism Information Center
- Location: Inside Kumano City Station
- Business hours: 9:00-17:00 (varies by season)
- Services:
- Distribution of holy site pilgrimage maps
- Sales of collaboration merchandise
- Provision of tourism information
- Bus schedule confirmation
We strongly recommend gathering information here as your starting point for holy site pilgrimage.
Kumano City Station Front Specialty Hall “Umihikari”
- Business hours: About 9:00-18:00
- Products handled: Local specialties, souvenirs, some collaboration merchandise
You can purchase local specialties and use it as a rest area.
Precautions and Etiquette for Holy Site Pilgrimage
Basic Etiquette
- Do not enter private land or no-entry zones
- Former Hatasu Elementary School viewing is exterior only
- Never enter local residents’ property
- Be mindful of noise
- Keep conversations quiet in residential areas
- Avoid visiting early morning or late night
- Always take your trash with you
- There are almost no trash bins around holy sites
- To protect the natural environment, take all trash with you
- Show consideration when photographing
- Be careful not to include locals in photos
- Obtain permission before photographing inside operating shops
- Road and crossing photography should prioritize safety
Consideration for the Community
The holy sites of Kumano City are places where local people actually live. Shops like Sayamart Shingashira Branch are not tourist facilities but essential community infrastructure. When visiting:
- If possible, make a purchase to contribute to the local economy
- Be mindful not to interfere with business operations
- Use polite language when interacting with locals
Appropriate behavior by fans will support the continuation of holy site pilgrimage culture in the future.
Safety Precautions
- Caution at the Beach
- The waterline is slippery
- Watch for high waves on bad weather days
- Take full heat stroke precautions in summer
- Roads and Traffic
- National Route 42 has heavy traffic with some sections lacking sidewalks
- Avoid parking on shoulders as it inconveniences following vehicles
- Be careful driving on the winding mountain road
- Mobile Phone Signal
- Some areas have weak signal or no service
- Download maps in advance
- Prepare alternative emergency contact methods
Kumano Sightseeing That Can Be Enjoyed Together with Holy Site Pilgrimage
World Heritage Kumano Kodo
If you visit Kumano City, you should experience the World Heritage Kumano Kodo. To combine it with holy site pilgrimage:
- Matsumoto Pass: Relatively close to Kumano City Station, about 2 hours round trip
- Onigajo: A scenic spot also included in the holy site pilgrimage route
Hot Springs
- Iruka Onsen Hotel Shotorysou: Hot spring inn in Kumano City
- Yunokuchi Onsen: Day-trip bathing available
Perfect for relaxing your body tired from holy site pilgrimage.
Gourmet
Kumano Specialties
- Saury Sushi: Regional specialty of Kumano area
- Mehri Sushi: Onigiri wrapped in takana leaf
- Fresh Seafood: Dishes using local fish and shellfish
Available at Kumano City Station vicinity and “Michi no Eki (Roadside Station) Kumano Itaya Kurobei’s Place.”
Accommodation Information
Major Accommodation Facilities in Kumano City
Hotels and Inns
- Kumano Club: Luxury resort facility
- Iruka Onsen Hotel Shotorysou: Enjoy hot springs
- Several business hotels: Around Kumano City Station
Minshuku and Guest Houses
- Vicinity of Shingashira Beach: Multiple minshuku for swimmers
- Relatively reasonable price range
Precautions
- Limited number of accommodation facilities, so advance booking is essential for weekends and summer
- Especially crowded during collaboration event periods
- Without a car, accommodations near Kumano City Station are convenient
Accommodations in Surrounding Cities
When hotels in Kumano City are fully booked:
- Owase City: North of Kumano City, about 30 minutes by car
- Kii Nagashima: Center of Kihoku Town, also part of holy sites
- Shingu City: South of Kumano City, Wakayama Prefecture side
Recommended Visiting Periods by Season
Spring (March-May)
- Climate: Warm and comfortable
- Merits: Relatively few tourists, beautiful fresh greenery
- Demerits: Higher frequency of rainy days
Summer (June-August)
- Climate: Hot and humid
- Merits: Can also enjoy swimming, experience the summer scenes of the work
- Demerits: Many tourists, accommodations crowded, heat stroke risk
Autumn (September-November)
- Climate: Cool and comfortable
- Merits: Most pleasant season, relatively calm sea
- Demerits: Typhoon season overlaps
Most Recommended: Late September through November is the best season climatically
Winter (December-February)
- Climate: Mild but strong winds some days
- Merits: Few tourists, inexpensive accommodations, experience the harsh winter sea
- Demerits: Short daylight hours, some facilities closed
Packing Checklist
Essential Items
- Smartphone (maps, camera, anime scene comparison)
- Mobile battery (battery drains quickly in areas with weak signal)
- Drinking water (few vending machines)
- Hat and sunscreen (summer)
- Raincoat (folding umbrella)
- Cash (many shops don’t accept cashless payment)
Nice to Have
- Anime screenshots (for scene comparison)
- Tripod or selfie stick
- Towel (sweat wipe and beach exploration)
- Change of clothes (summer)
- Garbage bags
- Insect repellent spray (summer)
When Using Public Transportation
- Printed bus schedule (for use without signal)
- Taxi company contact information memo
- Flexible schedule
To Enjoy the Work More Deeply
Prior Preparation
Rewatching the work before a holy site pilgrimage provides deeper emotion:
- Watch all 26 episodes: Pay special attention to scenes with holy sites
- Review character relationships: Recall what happened at each location
- Collect screenshots: Save for site comparisons
Ways to Enjoy at Holy Sites
- Photograph from the same angle: Compare anime and reality
- Put yourself in the character’s shoes: Imagine what they felt at that place
- Match the time of day: Visit at the same time of day as scenes in the work
- Match the season: Visit in the same season as the work if possible
Fan Exchange
- Information sharing on SNS (hashtags: #凪のあすから #凪あす聖地巡礼)
- Interaction with other fans met on site
- Conversation with locals (share your feelings about the work)
Conclusion: Making Your “Nagi no Asukara” Holy Site Pilgrimage Successful
Kumano City, Mie Prefecture, the holy site of “Nagi no Asukara,” is a wonderful place where you can experience the anime’s beautiful world just as it is. However, with holy sites scattered over a wide area and limited public transportation, careful advance planning is the key to success.
Points for Success:
- Securing transportation: Use a car (rental car) if possible
- Allow extra time: One or two nights is better than a day trip
- Research beforehand: Check official information from Kumano City Tourism Association
- Follow etiquette: Remember to show consideration for locals
- Travel with love for the work: Conduct yourself with pride as a fan
The beautiful sea of Kumano City and the warm welcome from local people will surely create wonderful holy site pilgrimage memories for you. Immerse yourself in the world of “Nagi no Asukara” while also enjoying Kumano’s nature and culture, and I hope your trip becomes an enriching experience.
Through holy site pilgrimage, deepen your love for the work and at the same time discover the wonderful region of Kumano City. By each person following proper etiquette, we can ensure that many more fans will be able to visit this holy site with confidence in the future. Let’s all contribute to that together.
