“Kokuhaku” Saitama Pilgrimage Complete Guide | Full Introduction to All Spots in Chichibu and Yokoze Town
What kind of work is “Kokuhaku”?
“Kokuhaku” (officially titled “Kokoro ga Sakebitagatterunda,” meaning “The Heart Wants to Cry Out”) is an anime film released in September 2015. It gained attention as a work that reunited the “Ultra Peace Busters” trio: director Tatsuyuki Nagai (known for “Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day”), screenwriter Marori Okada, and character designer Masuga Tanaka.
The protagonist of the story is Jun Naruse, a high school girl who has been cursed with “stomach pain whenever she speaks” due to childhood trauma. Together with her classmates Takumi Sakakami, Natsuki Nito, and Daiki Tasaki, she works on a community exchange musical while confronting her emotional wounds and growing as a person. This is a coming-of-age story that unfolds through their journey.
This work is primarily set in the Chichibu area of Saitama Prefecture, particularly in Chichibu City and Yokoze Town, and features many real landscapes. The beautiful nature and nostalgic townscapes enhance the story’s world view, making it a popular pilgrimage destination for many fans.
In 2017, it was adapted into a live-action film starring Kento Nakajima, also filmed in the Chichibu area. Since both the anime and live-action versions use the same locations, the ways to enjoy the pilgrimage expand even further.
The Charm of Saitama Prefecture’s Chichibu Area, the Setting of “Kokuhaku”
The Chichibu area of Saitama Prefecture offers excellent access—just about 80 minutes by express train from central Tokyo—while retaining abundant natural beauty and historic streetscapes. Chichibu City and Yokoze Town are adjacent municipalities, and the pilgrimage sites of “Kokuhaku” are concentrated in these two areas.
The Chichibu area serves as the setting for all three works in the “Ultra Peace Busters” trilogy: “Anohana,” “Kokuhaku,” and “The Blue Sky Is for You,” making it nationally famous as an anime pilgrimage destination. In 2024, it was selected as one of “88 Japanese Anime Pilgrimage Sites Worth Visiting,” and Saitama Prefecture and local municipalities actively promote pilgrimage tourism.
The charm of the Chichibu area lies in the beautiful mountain landscapes featured in the work, historic temples and shrines, and the warm sense of community. Through pilgrimage tourism, you can experience the world of the work while also enjoying Chichibu’s culture and nature—a major attraction.
“Kokuhaku” Pilgrimage Sites Complete Guide
[Yokoze Town Area] Main Pilgrimage Spots
Daiji Temple (Daiiji)
Address: 5151 Yokoze, Yokoze Town, Chichibu District, Saitama Prefecture
Daiji Temple is the most important pilgrimage spot for “Kokuhaku” fans. It appears multiple times as a crucial location in the story, particularly as the place where Jun first tells Takumi about the curse from the “egg fairy.”
Daiji Temple is a Rinzai Zen Buddhist temple founded in 1492 with a long history. The stone steps, main hall, and bell tower that appear in the work actually exist within the temple grounds, and you can take photos from the same angles as shown in the anime.
The stone steps where Jun and Takumi sat talking are particularly memorable and have become a popular photography spot for fans. The temple grounds have a quiet, solemn atmosphere, allowing for leisurely pilgrimage while experiencing the work’s world view.
When visiting, be respectful of proper temple etiquette and observe quietly. Daiji Temple sells “Kokuhaku”-related merchandise and ema (prayer tablets), allowing you to obtain souvenirs from your pilgrimage.
Yokoze Station and Surroundings
Address: Yokoze, Yokoze Town, Chichibu District, Saitama Prefecture
Yokoze Station on the Seibu Chichibu Line is the model for the station the characters use to commute in the work. The station building, station plaza, and surrounding residential areas all appear in the story.
Yokoze Station is an ideal base for pilgrimage tourism. Many pilgrimage spots, including Daiji Temple and others mentioned below, are within walking distance, making it possible to tour efficiently. The station plaza also has a tourist information center where you can obtain pilgrimage maps and information.
The scenery around the station retains the atmosphere of the work, allowing you to literally walk the paths the characters took. Visiting during morning or evening commute hours will allow you to feel the work’s world view even more strongly.
Yokoze Town Yokoze Junior High School Surroundings
This is one of the models for the high school that appears in the work. While it’s actually a junior high school, the school building’s exterior and surrounding scenery appear in the story.
Since this is a school facility, entry onto campus is not permitted, but you can view the exterior from surrounding roads. When photographing, be sure to show appropriate consideration for students’ privacy and the school’s operations.
Hitsujiyama Park
Address: 6360 Omiya, Chichibu City, Saitama Prefecture
Hitsujiyama Park is a representative park of Chichibu City, famous for its beautiful moss phlox blossoms in spring. In the work, it appears in scenes where Jun and her friends prepare for the community exchange event.
Within the park is a high point called “Lookout Hill” from which you can see a panoramic view of Chichibu City. This vista served as a model for landscapes in the work and is a standard pilgrimage spot.
During the moss phlox bloom season from mid-April to early May, the park is crowded with tourists. Combining pilgrimage tourism with seasonal flowers is recommended.
[Chichibu City Area] Important Pilgrimage Spots
Chichibu Muse Park
Address: 1377 Tamura, Chichibu City, Saitama Prefecture
Chichibu Muse Park is believed to be the model for “Shiroyama” (Castle Mountain) near the high school the characters attend. This vast park contains an observation platform with panoramic views of the Chichibu Basin—a spectacular spot.
The “castle” model that appears in important work scenes is considered to be this observation platform. While there’s no actual castle, the landscape visible from the high point overlaps with the work’s atmosphere.
The park also features a concert hall, deeply related to the work’s music theme. You can enjoy the work’s world view while strolling through the expansive grounds.
Chichibu Shrine
Address: 1-3 Baba-cho, Chichibu City, Saitama Prefecture
Chichibu Shrine is known as the main shrine of the Chichibu region with a long history. While direct appearance scenes in the work are limited, it’s used as background in depicting Chichibu’s streetscape.
The Chichibu Night Festival held in December is one of Japan’s three major float festivals and is registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. It’s a must-visit spot to understand Chichibu’s culture, the work’s setting.
Chichibu Bridge
Address: Chichibu City (bridge spanning the Arakawa River)
Chichibu Bridge spans the Arakawa River and appears in scenes where characters use it as a school commute route. From the bridge, you can see Bukoh Mountain and other Chichibu peaks—symbolic of the work’s world view.
The view from the bridge changes with seasons and times of day. The sunset view is particularly beautiful and popular for photography.
Other Pilgrimage Spots
Michi-no Eki Kajuen Park Ashigakubo
Address: 1915-6 Ashigakubo, Yokoze Town, Chichibu District, Saitama Prefecture
One of the models for scenery appearing in the work. It functions as a roadside station where you can enjoy local specialties and meals. It’s also an ideal rest spot during pilgrimage.
Bukoh Mountain
Bukoh Mountain, Chichibu’s symbol, appears multiple times in the work’s background. At 1,304 meters high, it’s visible from virtually anywhere in Chichibu City.
You can climb the mountain, but for pilgrimage purposes, viewing Bukoh Mountain from the city streets is standard. Finding the same angles as those in the work while touring is one way to enjoy pilgrimage.
Saitama Prefectural Chichibu Agricultural and Industrial Science High School Surroundings
Believed to be one of the models for the high school in the work. Since this is a school facility, entry is not permitted, but surrounding scenery appears in the story.
“Kokuhaku” Recommended Pilgrimage Routes
Efficient One-Day Route
Here’s a recommended route for efficiently touring pilgrimage sites in one day.
Morning: Yokoze Town Area
- Arrival at Seibu Chichibu Station (around 9:00 AM)
- About 80 minutes by Seibu Express Red Arrow from Ikebukuro
- Begin moving by renting a bicycle at the station or using buses and walking
- Yokoze Station (9:30 AM)
- View the station building featured in the work
- Obtain a pilgrimage map at the tourist information office
- Daiji Temple (10:00-11:00 AM)
- Thoroughly view the most important spot
- Photography of the stone steps and temple grounds
- Prayer and ema tablet offering
- Residential Streets of Yokoze Town (11:00 AM-12:00 PM)
- Stroll while searching for scenery from the work
- Photography at spots featuring Bukoh Mountain in the background
Lunch: Chichibu City (12:00-1:00 PM)
- Enjoy local Chichibu specialties like wristband cutlet rice bowl or Chichibu buckwheat noodles
- Confirm the pilgrimage map and plan the afternoon
Afternoon: Chichibu City Area
- Chichibu Shrine (1:30-2:00 PM)
- Experience Chichibu’s history and culture
- Stroll through streetscapes that served as story backgrounds
- Chichibu Bridge (2:30 PM)
- Enjoy the view from the bridge
- Photography of Bukoh Mountain and the Arakawa River scenery
- Hitsujiyama Park (3:00-4:00 PM)
- Panoramic view of Chichibu City from Lookout Hill
- Enjoy seasonal flowers
- Chichibu Muse Park (4:30-5:30 PM)
- Enjoy sunset views from the observation platform
- Memorial photography at the “castle” model location
- Seibu Chichibu Station (6:00 PM)
- Optional: hot spring bath at Matsuri-no-Yu near the station
- Souvenir shopping
- Return to Tokyo
Two-Day Leisurely Route
For those with more time, a two-day pilgrimage tour is recommended for enjoying at a relaxed pace.
Day 1: Focus on Yokoze Town Area
- Morning: Thoroughly tour Yokoze Station area and Daiji Temple, visiting smaller spots
- Afternoon: Explore Michi-no Eki Kajuen Park Ashigakubo and Ashigakubo area
- Evening: Overnight in Chichibu City, visit tourism facilities like the Chichibu Night Festival Hall
Day 2: Focus on Chichibu City Area
- Morning: Chichibu Shrine, Chichibu Bridge, detailed tours of downtown spots
- Afternoon: Hitsujiyama Park, Chichibu Muse Park, view point tours
- Evening: Relax at hot springs before returning
Advice by Transportation Method
Walking
- Yokoze Town area has concentrated spots within walking distance from the station
- Chichibu downtown is also walkable between main sites
- However, some spots like Chichibu Muse Park are difficult to reach on foot
Rental Bicycle
- Available for rent at Seibu Chichibu Station and Yokoze Station areas
- Electric-assist bicycles recommended (due to many hills)
- Allows efficient coverage of wide areas in one day
Local Bus
- Buses operate from Seibu Chichibu Station to various spots
- Check schedules in advance for smooth travel
- One-day free passes offer good value
Rental Car or Personal Vehicle
- Maximum freedom and efficient time use
- Convenient access to hilltop spots like Chichibu Muse Park
- Confirm parking availability beforehand
Characters and Story Appeal of “Kokuhaku”
Main Character Introductions
Jun Naruse (Naruse Jun)
- Voice: Inori Minase (anime) / Actress: Sena Nakajima (live-action)
- The work’s protagonist. A high school girl cursed by childhood trauma with “stomach pain when speaking,” unable to communicate with others
- Believes she was cursed by the “egg fairy” living atop a castle
- Can sing without pain, so she expresses herself through the musical
Takumi Sakakami (Sakakami Takumi)
- Voice: Koki Uchiyama (anime) / Actor: Kento Nakajima (live-action)
- Jun’s childhood friend. Former baseball team ace who gave up baseball due to elbow injury
- Assigned to community exchange implementation committee, reuniting with Jun
- Kind and sincere in character, gradually opening Jun’s heart
Natsuki Nito (Nito Natsuki)
- Voice: Sora Amemiya (anime) / Actress: Kyoko Yoshine (live-action)
- Cheerleading club member, bright and lively high school girl
- Has feelings for Takumi
- Works on the musical as implementation committee member
Daiki Tasaki (Tasaki Daiki)
- Voice: Yoshimasa Hosoya (anime) / Actress: Aina Ishii (live-action)
- Brass band club member, honor student
- Dating Natsuki but harboring complex feelings
- Handles the musical’s music
Story Themes and Appeal
“Kokuhaku” centers on “words” and “communication.” The story carefully depicts Jun, who has lost speech, conveying her feelings through music as an alternative form of expression.
The work’s appeal lies in how each character’s emotional wounds and conflicts are portrayed realistically. Not only Jun, but Takumi, Natsuki, and Daiki each carry worries and regrets. Watching the four confront each other’s true feelings while working on the community exchange musical, growing in the process, resonated deeply with many viewers.
Music is another major appeal. The musical numbers performed throughout enhance the story’s emotional impact. Particularly, Jun’s closing song “My Voice” became a memorable piece for many fans.
Access Methods and Pilgrimage Preparation
Access from Tokyo
By Train
- Seibu Ikebukuro Line / Chichibu Line
- About 80 minutes by limited express Red Arrow from Ikebukuro to Seibu Chichibu Station
- Fare: Approximately 1,500 yen per direction (including limited express surcharge)
- Frequency: 1-2 trains per hour
- Most convenient and recommended route
- Via JR Takasaki Line
- Takasaki Line to Kumagaya Station, transfer to Chichibu Railway to Chichibu Station
- Takes longer but allows enjoying local train atmosphere
By Car
- About 50 minutes, 30km from Hanazono IC on Kan-Etsu Expressway via Route 140
- About 70 minutes, 40km from Sayama-Hidaka IC on Enoshima Expressway via Route 299
- Note traffic congestion on weekends and peak tourist seasons
Pilgrimage Preparation
Packing Checklist
- Pilgrimage map (available locally or check online beforehand)
- Work images (save to phone for comparison photography)
- Camera / smartphone (don’t forget charger)
- Comfortable walking shoes (due to hills and stone steps)
- Beverages and light snacks
- Weather-appropriate clothing (sunscreen for summer, warm layers for winter)
Things to Confirm Beforehand
- Weather forecast (rainy days make outdoor photography difficult)
- Opening hours and holidays for each spot
- Bus schedules (if planning bus transportation)
- Accommodation reservations (if staying one night or longer)
Etiquette and Rules
- Strictly prohibited: trespassing on private property
- School facilities: view only from outside, don’t disrupt classes
- At temples and shrines: observe proper prayer etiquette
- In residential areas: be mindful of noise
- Take all trash with you
- Respect community residents’ lives
Chichibu Tourism Spots Enjoyable with Pilgrimage
Chichibu’s Three Major Attractions
Chichibu Night Festival Hall
- Facility where you can experience Chichibu’s traditional “Chichibu Night Festival” year-round
- Display of actual festival floats used in the celebration
- Learn about Chichibu’s history and culture
Nagatoro Line Boat Tours
- Enjoy gorge scenery of Arakawa River by boat
- Beautiful seasonal landscapes: spring cherry blossoms, summer greenery, autumn foliage
- About 20 minutes by Chichibu Railway from Chichibu Station
Mitsumi Shrine
- Premier power spot at 1,100 meters elevation
- Mystical atmosphere and spectacular views
- About 90 minutes by bus—recommended for those with time
Chichibu Cuisine
Wristband Cutlet Rice Bowl
- Chichibu specialty with two large cutlets on rice
- Named for resembling a wristband due to its size
- Available at multiple city restaurants
Chichibu Buckwheat Noodles
- Buckwheat made with Chichibu’s pure water
- Fragrant with excellent texture
- Many long-established noodle shops
Miso Potato
- Steamed potato topped with sweet-spicy miso sauce—traditional local cuisine
- Available at roadside stations and eateries
Chichibu Wine
- Wine made from Chichibu-grown grapes
- Winery tours available
Hot Spring Facilities
Matsuri-no-Yu
- Complex hot spring facility in front of Seibu Chichibu Station
- Perfect for soothing pilgrimage fatigue
- Food court and souvenir shop also included
Chichibu Hot Spring Manganoyū
- Day-use hot spring facility in Nagatoro area
- Popular outdoor bath with gorge views
“Kokuhaku” Related Events and Merchandise Information
Regularly Held Events
Anime Sacred Sites 88 Stamp Rally
- Saitama Prefecture-sponsored pilgrimage stamp rally
- Includes 2 “Kokuhaku” spots among prefecture sites
- Participants receive limited merchandise
Chichibu Anime Tourism
- Chichibu City Tourism Association’s anime pilgrimage initiative
- Pilgrimage map distribution, signage placement, etc.
- Periodic collaborative events
Merchandise and Souvenirs
Daiji Temple Original Goods
- Ema prayer tablets with “Kokuhaku” designs
- Amulets and goshuin (shrine stamps)
- Postcards and more
Seibu Chichibu Station Souvenir Hall
- Work collaboration regional-limited merchandise
- Available alongside Chichibu specialties
Pilgrimage Maps
- Free distribution at tourist information centers
- Includes detailed location information and access methods
Recommended Pilgrimage Seasons
Spring (March-May)
- Recommendation: Hitsujiyama Park moss phlox bloom season (mid-April to early May)
- Climate: Pleasant weather, ideal for walking tours
- Note: Peak bloom period is crowded—start early
Summer (June-August)
- Recommendation: Beautiful fresh greenery, full enjoyment of Chichibu nature
- Climate: Hot but cooler than central Tokyo
- Note: Don’t forget sunscreen and stay hydrated
Autumn (September-November)
- Recommendation: Beautiful autumn foliage, most ideal for pilgrimage
- Climate: Cool and comfortable, often excellent photography weather
- Note: Peak season—book accommodations early
Winter (December-February)
- Recommendation: Special atmosphere during Chichibu Night Festival (December 2-3)
- Climate: Cold but clear winter skies show Bukoh Mountain clearly
- Note: Dress warmly, watch for ice
Differences Between Anime and Live-Action Versions
The live-action film released in 2017 was also filmed in the Chichibu area with Kento Nakajima as lead, alongside Kyoko Yoshine and Aina Ishii in a star-studded cast.
Similarities Between Anime and Live-Action
- Same basic storyline
- Chichibu and Yokoze Town settings
- Shared major pilgrimage sites like Daiji Temple
Differences
- Variations in detailed settings and character portrayal
- Live-action includes additional filming locations
- Different musical and theatrical scene direction
Viewing both works before pilgrimage enhances enjoyment. The same locations offer different angles and direction between anime and live-action—double the fun.
Summary: The Appeal of “Kokuhaku” Pilgrimage Tourism
“Kokuhaku” pilgrimage tourism is a wonderful experience that allows you to experience the work’s world view while touching the beautiful nature and culture of Saitama’s Chichibu area.
The pilgrimage sites centered on Daiji Temple in Yokoze Town, and Chichibu Muse Park and Hitsujiyama Park in Chichibu City, are each connected to important work scenes. Each visit revives the story’s emotional impact.
The good accessibility—about 80 minutes by express from Tokyo—is another appeal, making day trips viable for covering major spots. With extra time, staying overnight to enjoy Chichibu’s hot springs and cuisine while leisurely exploring pilgrimage sites is recommended.
Through pilgrimage, literally walking paths Jun and friends traveled and witnessing the scenery they saw deepens understanding and affection for the work. The warm welcome from local residents is also a major pilgrimage appeal.
With proper etiquette and respect for the community, fully enjoy “Kokuhaku” pilgrimage tourism. You’ll discover the work’s message—”the courage to convey true feelings”—at these sacred sites.
