Yama no Susume Next Summit Saitama Prefecture Sacred Site Pilgrimage Complete Guide|Full Spot Details Map Included
Broadcasting began in October 2022, “Yama no Susume Next Summit” was produced as the fourth season of the series in the long-awaited 30-minute format, featuring far more sacred sites than ever before. This article provides detailed information about the sacred sites that serve as the stage for the anime centered on Saitama Prefecture, including access methods and photography points.
What is Yama no Susume Next Summit
“Yama no Susume Next Summit” is the fourth season of an anime series based on the manga of the same name by Shiro, with mountain climbing as its theme. The story depicts Aoi Yukimura, an introverted protagonist, awakening to the charm of mountaineering through a reunion with her childhood friend Hinata Kurakami, and tackling various mountains together with her friends.
In Next Summit, leveraging the experience cultivated in previous series, the growth of Aoi and her friends as they face higher mountains and new challenges is depicted, with actual mountain climbing spots and cityscapes carefully recreated.
The Center of Sacred Site Pilgrimage: Hanno City, Saitama Prefecture
Why Hanno City Was Chosen as the Stage for Yama no Susume
Hanno City, Saitama Prefecture, is located approximately 50 km from central Tokyo. While offering excellent accessibility from the city center, it is blessed with abundant nature. Low mountains around 200 meters in elevation are scattered throughout the area, providing an environment where even beginners can enjoy mountain climbing with ease.
In the work, the cityscape of Hanno is depicted in detail as the setting for the school where the protagonists attend and their daily lives, allowing viewers to enjoy sacred site pilgrimage not only for climbing but also for daily scenes. Hanno City itself is actively collaborating with the anime, with character panels and stamp rallies set up throughout the city.
Access Methods to Hanno City
Train Access
- Seibu Ikebukuro Line: About 40 minutes by express from Ikebukuro Station to Hanno Station, about 50 minutes by regular train
- JR Hachioji Line: Also accessible from the Hachioji direction
By Car
- About 15 minutes from “Sayama Hidaka IC” of the Ken-O Expressway
- About 30 minutes from “Tsurugashima IC” of the Kan-etsu Expressway
For sacred site pilgrimage, it is convenient to use Hanno Station or Higashi-Hanno Station on the Seibu Ikebukuro Line as a starting point. There are also rental bicycles available near the stations, allowing visitors to efficiently tour pilgrimage spots.
Major Sacred Site Pilgrimage Spots in Hanno City
1. Seiibo Gakuen Junior and Senior High School (Model School)
The model for the school attended by Aoi and Hinata. The exterior of the school building and surrounding scenery appear multiple times in the work. Since it is an actual school facility, entry onto the premises is strictly prohibited, but the same angle as the anime can be photographed from surrounding roads and railway crossings.
Photography Points
- Railway crossing in front of the school: Frequently appears in after-school scenes
- Surrounding slopes: Used as background for school commute scenes
Access
- About 15 minutes on foot from “Higashi-Hanno Station” on the Seibu Ikebukuro Line
Notes for Pilgrimage
Since it is a school facility, avoid visiting during school hours and observe quietly. Care must be taken not to disturb students and related personnel.
2. Tenran Mountain
A low mountain with an elevation of 197 meters, and one of the most important sacred sites throughout the entire Yama no Susume series. This is the memorable mountain where Hinata first invited Aoi to go mountain climbing in the first season, and it also serves as the stage for important scenes in Next Summit.
Highlights
- Mountain summit observation platform: A spectacular spot overlooking Hanno city
- Sixteen Rakan statues: Stone Buddhist statues along the climbing trail
- Mid-section plaza: A rest spot appearing multiple times in the story
Mountain Climbing Course
- Time Required: About 20-30 minutes one way (beginner-friendly)
- Difficulty: Low (well-maintained hiking trail)
- Trailhead: Behind Nonin-ji Temple or from Hanno Central Park
Photography Points
- Summit observation platform: The place where Aoi and Hinata first reached the summit
- Mid-section plaza bench: Appears in rest scenes
- Stairs in front of the Sixteen Rakan statues: Standard cut in climbing scenes
3. Tonosuyama Mountain
At 271 meters elevation, this mountain can be traversed from Tenran Mountain. It also appears in Next Summit and offers a more authentic mountaineering atmosphere.
Features
- Traverse course from Tenran Mountain: About 1 hour
- Summit view: Overlooks the Okumusashi mountains
- Multiple hiking trails: Various routes to enjoy
Access
You can traverse from Tenran Mountain or climb directly from the Hanno River area.
4. Kannon-ji Temple
A temple in Hanno city where it frequently appears as a meeting place in the work. A large elephant statue stands in the temple grounds and is depicted impressively in the anime.
Highlights
- Elephant statue in the grounds: Appears in Next Summit Episode 1
- Plaza in front of the main hall: The stage for meeting scenes
- Stone steps on the approach: Used as background in various scenes
Access
- About 10 minutes on foot from “Hanno Station” on the Seibu Ikebukuro Line
Photography Tips
Photographing the elephant statue from the front creates the same composition as in the anime. The temple grounds are open for free viewing, but please be considerate of other visitors.
5. Nonin-ji Temple
A Soto Zen temple at the foot of Tenran Mountain, serving as the starting point for Tenran Mountain climbing. It has a beautiful garden and appears in the work as background scenery.
Highlights
- Pond landscape garden: Designated as a scenic spot in Saitama Prefecture
- Main hall: Impressive architecture
- Tenran Mountain trailhead: Accessible to the hiking trail from the rear
Admission Information
- Visiting Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (varies by season)
- Admission Fee: Garden viewing is paid (approximately 300 yen)
6. Hanno Ginza Street Shopping District
Appears in the work as a shopping district where Aoi’s part-time job is located. A shopping district retaining a retro atmosphere, with various stores appearing in the anime.
Sacred Spots
- Cake shop (model store): Aoi’s part-time job location
- Shopping district arcade: After-school scenes
- Various shops: Appear as background in many places
Access
- About 5 minutes on foot from “Hanno Station” on the Seibu Ikebukuro Line
Pilgrimage Tips
Since many shops in the shopping district are still operating, care must be taken not to interfere with business when photographing. It is good manners to speak to shop owners before taking photos.
7. Hanno Central Park
A park appearing in important scenes from the work, including the jungle gym ruins site. It has been featured since the first season as a memorable place for Aoi and Hinata.
Highlights
- Jungle gym ruins site: Monument has been installed
- Plaza: The stage for various daily scenes
- Tenran Mountain trailhead: Can access the hiking trail from the park
Access
- About 15 minutes on foot from “Hanno Station” on the Seibu Ikebukuro Line
- Also within walking distance from Higashi-Hanno Station
8. Hanno City Library
Appeared in Next Summit Episode 1. Used in scenes where Aoi and friends research mountain climbing information.
Facility Information
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM (until 5:00 PM on Sundays and holidays)
- Closed: Mondays, year-end and New Year holidays, etc.
- Access: Free for anyone to use
Photography Points
The exterior can be freely photographed, but permission is required for interior photography. Please view quietly.
Mountain Climbing Sacred Sites Around Hanno City
Hiwada Mountain (Hidaka City, Saitama Prefecture)
Featured in Next Summit Episode 7, “Where Should We Watch the First Sunrise?” This 305-meter mountain is located in Hidaka City, adjacent to Hanno City.
Features
- First sunrise viewing spot: The stage for first sunrise climbing in the work
- Male and female slopes: Two climbing routes
- Kotohira Shrine: A shrine near the summit
Mountain Climbing Information
- Time Required: About 30-40 minutes one way
- Difficulty: Low to moderate (male slope is somewhat steep)
- Trailhead: About 15 minutes on foot from “Koma Station” on the Seibu Chichibu Line
Photography Points
- Summit observation platform: The stage for the first sunrise scene
- Male slope stairs: Appear in climbing scenes
- Kotohira Shrine: Prayer scenes
Access
“Koma Station” on the Seibu Chichibu Line is the nearest station, two stations from Hanno Station. The trailhead is accessible on foot from the station.
Arima Dam (Hanno City, Naguri District, Saitama Prefecture)
A dam where a mural impressively appeared in Next Summit Episode 6, located in the mountainous Naguri District of Hanno City.
Highlights
- Dam wall mural: Featuring a giant bird painting
- Dam lake: Enjoyed as Naguri Lake
- Surrounding nature: The rich natural environment of Okumusashi
Access
- About 50 minutes by Kokusai Kogyo Bus from Hanno Station to “Naguri Depot” or “Yu no Sawa”
- By car: About 30 minutes from Hanno Station
Pilgrimage Tips
Car access is convenient around the dam. Since buses are infrequent, check the schedule in advance.
Bono Mountain (Hanno City, Saitama Prefecture)
At 969 meters elevation, this is a serious mountain climbing spot featured throughout the series. It also serves as an important stage in Next Summit.
Mountain Climbing Information
- Time Required: About 4-5 hours round trip
- Difficulty: Intermediate level
- Highlights: Shiratani Gorge, Gojiri Pass, etc.
Access
- To Sawarabi no Yu (trailhead): About 1 hour by bus from Hanno Station
Efficient Sacred Site Pilgrimage Model Courses
Day Trip Hanno City Course (Time Required: About 6-8 Hours)
Morning: Mountain Climbing Focus
- Arrival at Hanno Station (9:00 AM)
- Mountain climbing Tenran Mountain via Nonin-ji Temple (9:30 AM-11:00 AM)
- Traverse to Tonosuyama Mountain (11:00 AM-12:00 PM)
- Lunch at Hanno River after descent (12:30 PM-1:30 PM)
Afternoon: City Area Tour
- Kannon-ji Temple (2:00 PM-2:30 PM)
- Hanno Ginza Street Shopping District (2:30 PM-3:30 PM)
- Hanno Central Park (3:30 PM-4:00 PM)
- Around Seiibo Gakuen (4:30 PM-5:00 PM)
- Return from Hanno Station or Higashi-Hanno Station (5:30 PM)
1-Night 2-Day Comprehensive Course
Day 1: Complete Hanno City Tour
- Morning: Tenran Mountain and Tonosuyama Mountain climbing
- Afternoon: City area sacred site pilgrimage
- Evening: Rest at Hanno River
- Overnight: In Hanno City or near Hanno Station
Day 2: Expanded Surrounding Area
- Morning: Hiwada Mountain climbing (access from Koma Station)
- Afternoon: Arima Dam area or Bono Mountain (choose according to fitness level)
Running Pilgrimage Course (Time Required: About 2-3 Hours)
Next Summit Episode 5 features running scenes in Hanno City, and recreating this course is also popular.
- Start at Hanno Station
- Kannon-ji Temple
- Hanno Ginza Street
- Hanno Central Park
- Nonin-ji Temple
- Tenran Mountain mid-section (as far as possible)
- Hanno River
- Goal at Hanno Station
Distance: About 8-10 km
Tips to Enjoy Sacred Site Pilgrimage More
Advance Preparation
Watching the Anime
If possible, watch from the first season onward, not just Next Summit. Taking screenshots of specific scenes in advance makes comparative photography at the actual sites smoother.
Utilizing Map Apps
Pin sacred sites in advance on Google Maps for efficiency. Download offline maps to feel secure in mountainous areas.
Mountain Climbing Gear
Although Tenran Mountain is a low mountain, basic mountain climbing equipment is necessary:
- Comfortable shoes (sneakers or better)
- Drinking water (500ml or more)
- Towel
- Rain gear (folding umbrella, etc.)
- Trail snacks (chocolate, etc.)
Photography Tips
Matching Angles
To photograph at the same angle as in the work, adjust your position and height while referencing screenshots. Especially for building or landscape photography, using landmarks such as utility poles or signs as reference points makes matching easier.
Time of Day Selection
The light angle at morning or evening can help recreate the same atmosphere as the work. The Tenran Mountain summit in particular is beautiful at twilight and coincides with scenes in the anime.
Seasonal Considerations
Next Summit depicts scenes from all four seasons. Visiting during the same season as the work—cherry blossom season, fresh green season, or autumn foliage season—allows for more immersive pilgrimage.
Local Collaboration
Hanno City’s Initiatives
Hanno City actively promotes tourism using “Yama no Susume,” implementing the following:
- Character panel installations (throughout the city)
- Stamp rally events (limited time)
- Collaborative merchandise sales (tourist information centers, etc.)
- Sacred site map distribution
Using Tourist Information Centers
The tourist information office in front of Hanno Station provides sacred site pilgrimage maps and the latest collaboration information. Staff are knowledgeable about sacred sites and will suggest recommended routes.
Etiquette and Precautions
Consideration for Private Property
Some spots, such as Seiibo Gakuen, are private property or school facilities. Absolutely refrain from entering the premises and view with discretion from public roads.
Photography in Residential Areas
Many scenes feature residential areas as background. Be considerate of residents’ privacy and avoid visiting early morning or late night.
Photography at Shops
When photographing on the shopping street, care must be taken not to disturb business at operating shops. With permission if possible, take photos after speaking to shop owners.
Mountain Climbing Etiquette
- Greeting hikers you meet
- Always take garbage with you
- Do not leave the hiking trail
- Do not touch wild plants and animals
- Do not shout loudly
SNS Posting Precautions
When posting photographed pictures on SNS, check that personally identifying information (vehicle license plates, name plates, etc.) is not visible in the shot.
Attractions of Hanno That Can Be Enjoyed Alongside Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Gourmet Spots
Hanno Specialties
- Suuiton: Local home cooking
- Hanno Suuiton: Soup with kneaded wheat flour dumplings
- Dishes using local vegetables
Recommended Cafes
Cafes are scattered around Hanno Station and the shopping district, perfect for rest after climbing. Enjoy lunch and sweets using local ingredients.
Hot Springs and Bathing Facilities
Sawarabi no Yu
A day-use hot spring facility in the Naguri District. Perfect to visit after Bono Mountain climbing.
Hanno River
A summer swimming spot. Barbecue facilities are also available.
Event Information
Throughout the year, various events are held in Hanno City:
- Hanno New Green Two-Day March (May)
- Hanno Festival (November)
- Yama no Susume Related Events (irregular)
Planning a visit during event times makes for more fulfilling sacred site pilgrimage.
Accommodation Information
Accommodation Facilities in Hanno City
Business Hotels
Several business hotels near Hanno Station offer reasonably priced accommodation.
Guest Houses
Guest houses renovated from old private homes allow interaction with locals.
Campgrounds
Multiple campgrounds in the Naguri District offer full outdoor experiences.
Accommodation in Surrounding Areas
If accommodation cannot be found in Hanno City, alternative options include staying in Tokorozawa or Kawagoe, cities on the Seibu Line, and traveling to Hanno the next day.
Seasonal Recommended Pilgrimage Plans
Spring (March-May)
Highlights
- Cherry blossom bloom time (late March to early April)
- Start of new green mountain climbing season
- Mild weather makes walking easier
Recommended Spots
- Cherry blossoms on Tenran Mountain
- Cherry blossom lined paths at Hanno River
- Flowers at Central Park
Summer (June-August)
Highlights
- Swimming at Hanno River
- Deep green mountains
- Early morning climbing to avoid heat
Precautions
- Heat stroke prevention essential
- Frequent hydration breaks
- Insect repellent
Autumn (September-November)
Highlights
- Autumn foliage season (mid to late November)
- Ideal weather for climbing
- Autumn festivals and events
Recommended Spots
- Autumn foliage on Tonosuyama Mountain
- Nonin-ji Temple garden
- Autumn foliage in the Arima Dam area
Winter (December-February)
Highlights
- First sunrise climbing (Hiwada Mountain)
- Crystal clear air and mountain summit views
- Quiet winter mountain walks
Precautions
- Cold weather protection essential
- Time management important due to early sunset
- Watch for ice (especially Hiwada Mountain male slope)
Next Summit Episode Main Sacred Sites Summary
Episode 1
- Kannon-ji Temple (elephant statue)
- Hanno City Library
- Hanno Central Park
- Road to Tenran Mountain
Episode 5
- Hanno City running course
- Tenran Mountain
- Hanno River area
Episode 6
- Arima Dam
- Naguri District
Episode 7
- Hiwada Mountain
- Around Koma Station
- Kotohira Shrine
Episodes 11-12
- Mount Fuji (Mount Fuji climbing edition)
Apps and Tools Useful for Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Map Apps
- Google Maps: As basic map
- YAMAP: Mountain map app, can be used offline
- Mountains and Highland Map: Detailed hiking maps
Sacred Site Pilgrimage Support Apps
- Butai Meguri: Anime sacred site pilgrimage dedicated app
- Instagram: Information gathering using hashtag “#ヤマノススメ聖地巡礼”
Transportation Apps
- Seibu Line App: Service updates and timetables
- Jorudan Route Search: Also check bus timetables
Conclusion: The Appeal of Yama no Susume Next Summit Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Sacred site pilgrimage for “Yama no Susume Next Summit” is not only about re-experiencing the anime world but also a valuable experience to feel the “charm of mountains,” the theme of the work, through actual climbing and city walks.
Sacred sites centered on Hanno City, Saitama Prefecture are easily accessible from the city center and can be visited casually even by beginners. The ability to experience the same growth process as in the work by starting with low mountains like Tenran Mountain and gradually moving to more serious mountain climbing is also one of its attractions.
Through sacred site pilgrimage, not just anime fans but anyone can discover the joy of mountain climbing, the beauty of nature, and the charm of the region. While observing etiquette and prioritizing safety, enjoy the same scenery as Aoi and Hinata.
Hanno City shows different faces through the four seasons, so you will make new discoveries even if you visit multiple times. Please create your own sacred site pilgrimage plan and jump into the world of “Yama no Susume.” Why not set your own summit this coming weekend in Hanno’s mountains?
