Zatsu Tabi -That’s Journey- Niigata Prefecture Sacred Site Pilgrimage Complete Guide
“Zatsu Tabi -That’s Journey-” is a popular manga work by Kenta Ishizaka that depicts the main character Chika traveling freely throughout Japan. With a TV anime adaptation confirmed for 2025, the popularity of sacred site pilgrimage is increasing. This article provides a comprehensive explanation of sacred site pilgrimage spots in Niigata Prefecture, the setting of the work, with a focus on Awashima Ura Village.
What is Zatsu Tabi -That’s Journey-?
“Zatsu Tabi -That’s Journey-” is a travel manga serialized in Dengeki Maoh, with 12 volumes published to date. The protagonist, Chika Suzugamori, visits various locations throughout Japan on a whim, and the work’s charm lies in enjoying travel that includes “failures” where things don’t go as planned.
The work’s characteristic feature is its faithful depiction of real tourist destinations. The landscape artwork is beautiful, character emotions are richly expressed, and the work overflows with charm that makes readers think “I actually want to go there.” The protagonist’s attitude of positively accepting travel happenings—such as the expected shop being closed or missing the planned train—embodies a modern travel style.
Episodes Featuring Niigata Prefecture
Niigata Prefecture is an important setting that appears multiple times in “Zatsu Tabi.” In Journey 5, Niigata Prefecture is depicted alongside Tochigi Prefecture, and in Journey 6, Niigata Prefecture and Tokyo are the setting. Particularly impressive is the episode featuring a visit to Awashima Island in Niigata Prefecture’s Awashima Ura Village.
Awashima is a small island with a circumference of approximately 23 km, located in northern Niigata Prefecture, even further north than Sado Island, and is known as Niigata Prefecture’s only inhabited island. The entire island belongs to Awashima Ura Village and offers blue seas and abundant nature. The work depicts this island’s charm without reservation.
Basic Information About Awashima Ura Village and Access Methods
About Awashima Ura Village
Awashima Ura Village is a small village with a population of approximately 300 people, floating in the Sea of Japan with abundant natural scenery. Beautiful coastlines and peaceful rural landscapes spread out, allowing visitors to spend quiet time away from urban hustle and bustle. The island’s main settlements are divided between Uchiura District on the east coast and Kamaya District on the west coast.
The island’s industries center on fishing and tourism. Particularly during the spawning season from May to June, sea bream gather in nearby waters, reaching peak catch season. The local dish “wappa-ni” made with fresh sea bream during this period is known as Awashima’s signature gourmet.
Access Methods
Access to Awashima is via ferry or high-speed boat from Iwafune Port in Murakami City, Niigata Prefecture.
Access to Iwafune Port:
- Approximately 15 minutes by local bus from JR Murakami Station
- Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes by car from Niigata Airport
- Approximately 1 hour by car from central Niigata City
From Iwafune Port to Awashima Port:
- Ferry: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes travel time (2 round trips daily)
- High-speed boat: Approximately 55 minutes travel time (2 round trips daily, operates April-November)
Services may be cancelled due to weather, so it is recommended to check operating conditions in advance. Particularly in winter, the sea tends to be rough, increasing the likelihood of cancellation. When planning sacred site pilgrimage, it is important to create a schedule with adequate buffer time.
Detailed Sacred Site Pilgrimage Spots on Awashima
Uchiura District
Uchiura District is a settlement located on Awashima’s east coast and is home to Awashima Port, the island’s main port. As the tourism hub, accommodations and restaurants are concentrated in this area.
Awashima Port functions as the island’s gateway and an important facility. The work features an impressive scene of the protagonist arriving at the island. Around the port are waiting areas and a tourist information center where you can obtain information about the island.
Along the road leading from the port to the settlement, old-fashioned houses line the way, where you can feel the island’s peaceful atmosphere. Comparing the scenery depicted in the work with the actual landscape as you walk is the essence of sacred site pilgrimage.
Food stalls in Uchiura District are popular eating places for locals and tourists alike. At the area’s oldest restaurant, you can enjoy dishes made with fresh seafood. Dishes made with locally caught squid and sea bream are particularly excellent and appear in the work as signature gourmet items.
Kamaya District
Kamaya District is a settlement located on Awashima’s west coast, with fewer people than Uchiura and a more pristine natural setting. In this quiet environment, you can enjoy the island’s original landscape.
Kamaya District is accessible from Uchiura on foot or by bicycle. Bus routes operate on the island, but with limited frequency, renting a bicycle is recommended. The distance from Uchiura to Kamaya is approximately 3 km, taking about 40 minutes on foot.
The west coast is known for its beautiful sunsets, where you can view the sun setting over the Sea of Japan—a scenic spot. The work also features impressive sunset scenes, making this a must-see point for sacred site pilgrims.
Awashima Ranch
Awashima has a ranch offering experiences such as horse rides. This ranch, which appears in the work, is a popular tourism spot on the island.
The ranch offers beginner-friendly horse ride experiences and horse riding experiences for experienced riders. Interacting with horses amidst the island’s peaceful landscape is a special memory that cannot be found in the city.
Operating hours and experience fees vary by season, so confirmation before visiting is recommended. Particularly during summer vacation periods, it may be crowded, so advance reservation is advisable.
Awashima’s Specialty Dish “Wappa-ni”
When visiting Awashima, be sure to taste “wappa-ni,” a local specialty dish. This dish appears in the work and is an important element of sacred site pilgrimage.
What is Wappa-ni?
Wappa-ni is a hearty fisherman’s dish where fresh seafood is placed in a cypress wooden vessel with miso-flavored broth, and heated stones are added to bring it to a boil at once. It originated from traditional Awashima cooking methods and is said to derive from a dish fishermen once ate aboard ships.
By adding heated stones, the broth boils instantly, and the concentrated umami of the fish is exquisite. Particularly during the sea bream spawning season from May to June, wappa-ni made with fresh, fatty sea bream can be savored at its finest.
Where to Eat Wappa-ni
Food stalls and inns in Uchiura District serve wappa-ni. However, advance reservation is often necessary, so it is recommended to contact accommodations or restaurants beforehand to confirm.
Prices vary by establishment, but typically range from 2,000 to 3,000 yen per serving. This luxurious dish using fresh local seafood is well worth the price.
Accommodations on Awashima
To fully enjoy sacred site pilgrimage on Awashima, it is recommended to stay overnight on the island. While day trips are possible, with limited ferry operations, overnight stays are ideal for leisurely exploring the island.
Inns
Awashima has several inns where you can experience island life in a homey atmosphere. Most inns serve dishes made with fresh seafood, allowing you to taste Awashima’s specialties including wappa-ni.
Inn rates with two meals included typically range from 8,000 to 12,000 yen per night. During peak seasons (summer vacation, Golden Week, etc.), reservations become difficult to obtain, so early booking is recommended.
Campground
Awashima also has a campground where you can camp in nature with your own tent. The beauty of the starry sky is exceptional, offering a view of a night sky full of stars that cannot be seen in cities.
Campground usage fees are relatively reasonable, typically ranging from 500 to 1,000 yen per tent. However, facilities are minimal, so it is better suited for experienced campers than beginners.
Sacred Site Pilgrimage Spots on Niigata’s Main Island
“Zatsu Tabi” features spots on Niigata’s main island besides Awashima. Incorporating these into your pilgrimage itinerary will make for a more fulfilling journey.
Murakami City
Murakami City, the gateway to Awashima, is also an important setting that appears in the work. Landscape scenes depicted in the work are scattered around Iwafune Port and Murakami’s city area.
Murakami City is famous as the town of salmon, with many restaurants serving salmon dishes. The townscape retaining castle town character is also appealing and enjoyable for a stroll.
Main sights:
- Landscape around Iwafune Port
- Castle town area in Murakami city center
- Restaurants serving salmon dishes
- Murakami Station (the station building appears in the work)
Other Niigata Prefecture Spots
Various locations throughout Niigata Prefecture appear in the work. Creating your own pilgrimage route with reference to sacred site maps is part of the fun.
Unofficial sacred site pilgrimage support websites provide detailed map information where you can confirm spots that appeared in each episode of the work. Bringing the e-book version of the volumes allows you to compare the work with actual landscapes at the locations, deepening your enjoyment of sacred site pilgrimage.
Planning and Preparation for Sacred Site Pilgrimage
How to Make Reservations
When planning sacred site pilgrimage to Awashima, the following reservations are necessary:
- Ferry and high-speed boat reservations: Early booking is recommended as seats may sell out during peak seasons
- Accommodation reservations: Since island accommodations are limited, aim to book a month in advance
- Bicycle rental reservations: Convenient for efficiently exploring the island (advance reservation may not be required, but confirmation is advisable)
Some travel agencies offer sacred site pilgrimage tours to Awashima. If you’re uncertain about making individual arrangements, consider using package tours.
Packing Checklist
Since Awashima is an island, shopping cannot be done as casually as on the mainland. Preparing the following items provides peace of mind:
- Single volumes or e-books: Essential for sacred site pilgrimage. Digital versions are convenient for carrying
- Camera and smartphone: For landscape photography. Bring extra batteries
- Sunscreen and hat: The island has strong sunlight
- Comfortable walking shoes: Essential for exploring the island
- Rain gear: For dealing with weather changes typical of the Sea of Japan coast
- Over-the-counter medications: Since there are no pharmacies on the island, bring necessary medicines
- Cash: Since there are no ATMs on the island, bring sufficient cash
Best Season
The best season to visit Awashima varies depending on your purpose:
Spring (April-June):
- Sea bream spawning season, when wappa-ni tastes best
- High-speed boat service begins (from April)
- Mild weather makes tourism convenient
Summer (July-August):
- Ocean swimming is available
- Peak tourist season
- Reservations are difficult to obtain, requiring early planning
Autumn (September-November):
- Fewer tourists allow for quieter island enjoyment
- High-speed boat operates through November
- Marine products taste excellent
Winter (December-March):
- Lowest tourist traffic
- Seas are rough and cancellations are likely
- Experience the island’s quiet atmosphere
Spring through autumn is the most convenient time for sacred site pilgrimage.
How to Enjoy Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Comparing the Work with Actual Landscapes
One appeal of “Zatsu Tabi” is its faithful depiction of real landscapes. Bringing volumes or e-books and comparing the panels depicted in the work with actual landscapes allows you to re-experience the author’s perspective when visiting. Particularly, Awashima’s beautiful coastline and peaceful settlements are depicted impressively in the work. Photographing the same angles and sharing on SNS is also part of pilgrimage enjoyment.
Following the Protagonist’s Footsteps
Following the same route as protagonist Chika Suzugamori allows you to immerse yourself more deeply in the story’s world. Eating the same dishes at restaurants the protagonist visited or taking photos in the same locations deepens your attachment to the work.
Fansite “VisitSuzugamori” allows you to trace the protagonist’s footsteps on a map, helping with pilgrimage planning.
Enjoying “Zatsu Tabi” Style Travel
Incorporating the work’s theme of “zatsu (casual) travel” into your pilgrimage is another way to enjoy it. Rather than making perfect plans, embracing a flexible attitude where some schedule changes or unexpected events are “part of the trip” aligns with the work’s worldview.
For example, if your target restaurant is closed, search for another option. If you miss your planned bus, try walking and exploring. Such flexibility can lead to unexpected discoveries and encounters.
Sacred Site Pilgrimage-Related Goods and Information Sources
Official and Unofficial Sacred Site Pilgrimage Maps
Several helpful resources are available for “Zatsu Tabi” sacred site pilgrimage:
Official website’s “Zatsu Map”:
The TV anime official website offers “Zatsu Map,” introducing spots that appeared in the work. Awashima and other regional tourism spots are introduced alongside scenes from the work.
Unofficial sacred site pilgrimage map:
Unofficial sites like “Map of That’s Journey” provide detailed maps of spots appearing through volume 12. Linked with Google Maps, they are extremely helpful for actual pilgrimage planning.
Sacred Site Pilgrimage Doujinshi
At events like Comic Market, fan-created sacred site pilgrimage travel journals are sold. Multiple volumes are published in the “Zatsu Tabi -That’s Journey- Sacred Site Pilgrimage” series, available on platforms like BOOTH.
These fan-made publications contain experienced pilgrims’ accounts and photos, providing valuable reference material. Typical formats are B5-sized, full-color, around 24 pages.
Collaboration Projects and Pamphlets
Alongside the work’s popularity, regional collaborations have expanded. Awashima Ura Village and Niigata Prefecture tourism associations may create “Zatsu Tabi” collaborative pamphlets and maps.
These official collaborative goods can often be obtained at local tourism information centers and accommodations. Some have limited designs, making them enjoyable to collect as pilgrimage souvenirs.
Explore Sacred Sites in Other Prefectures Too
Since “Zatsu Tabi” features locations throughout Japan, numerous sacred sites exist beyond Niigata Prefecture. Planning long-term travel to all sites is a unique way for work fans to enjoy the series.
Main Sacred Sites List
The work features the following prefectures:
- Journey 1: Fukushima Prefecture
- Journey 2: Miyagi Prefecture, Toyama Prefecture
- Journey 3: Toyama Prefecture, Kagawa Prefecture
- Journey 4: Kyoto Prefecture
- Journey 5: Tochigi Prefecture, Niigata Prefecture
- Journey 6: Niigata Prefecture, Tokyo
- Journey 7: Mie Prefecture
- Journey 8: Hiroshima Prefecture
- Journey 9: Aomori Prefecture, Wakayama Prefecture
- Journey 10: Wakayama Prefecture, Iwate Prefecture
- Journey 11-12: Shimane Prefecture
Shimane Prefecture appears across multiple episodes, featuring scenic spots like Miho Shrine, Miho Seki Lighthouse, and Izumo Taisha. Izumo Taisha, dedicated to Okuninushi no Mikoto, is renowned for matchmaking beliefs, with Miho Shrine serving as its head shrine. Miho Seki Lighthouse, designated as a registered tangible cultural property, appears impressively in the work.
Planning Trips Across Multiple Prefectures
For efficiently visiting geographically dispersed sacred sites, grouping visits by region is recommended:
- Hokuriku area: Combining Toyama Prefecture (like Kurobe Gorge Trolley Train) with Niigata Prefecture
- Sanin area: Spending several days visiting various Shimane spots
- Shikoku area: Visiting Takamatsu City and surrounding Kagawa areas
The appeal of “Zatsu Tabi” is discovering each region’s unique tourism spots through the work.
Expansion of Sacred Site Pilgrimage Through TV Anime Adaptation
With the TV anime adaptation confirmed for 2025, “Zatsu Tabi” sacred site pilgrimage is experiencing further growth. The anime’s stunning visualization of the original’s beautiful landscapes attracts new fans interested in pilgrimage, and anime adaptation motivates travel to these locations.
Changes Following Anime Broadcast
Anime adaptation typically increases interest in featured tourism spots, leading to actual visitor increases. For small remote islands like Awashima Ura Village, anime-driven tourism promotion carries significant meaning.
Regions actively collaborate with anime, with possibilities for limited merchandise sales, stamp rallies, and various initiatives.
Value as Anime Tourism
“Zatsu Tabi” receives attention from the Anime Tourism Association, which operates “88 Anime Sacred Sites.” The work highly values the fusion of real tourism destinations with anime culture and regional revitalization.
Through the work, visitors discover previously unknown regional attractions and contribute to local economies through actual visits. This cycle represents ideal anime tourism.
Manners and Precautions for Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Enjoying sacred site pilgrimage appropriately requires consideration for local residents and proper etiquette.
Basic Etiquette
- Strictly no trespassing on private property: Even if featured in the work, do not enter private land
- Be mindful of noise: In residential areas, move quietly
- Take trash with you: Particularly on islands, waste disposal becomes burdensome
- Be considerate when photographing: Avoid capturing other tourists or residents
- Show consideration in operating establishments: Obtain permission before photographing
Awashima-Specific Precautions
Since Awashima is a small island where life continues with limited resources:
- Conserve water: Island water is precious, avoid wasteful use
- Honor reservations: Always keep ferry and accommodation reservations
- Protect the natural environment: Avoid damaging plants on coasts and trails
- Support the local economy: Use local establishments whenever possible
Emergency Response
Since medical facilities are limited on remote islands, health management requires particular attention:
- Always bring medications: No pharmacies exist on the island
- Don’t push yourself when feeling unwell: Consider returning to the mainland if necessary
- Confirm emergency contacts: Keep contact information for accommodations and village offices
Conclusion: Rediscover Niigata’s Charm Through Zatsu Tabi Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Through “Zatsu Tabi -That’s Journey-” sacred site pilgrimage, you can deeply understand Niigata Prefecture’s Awashima Ura Village’s charm. Beautiful nature, fresh seafood, and encounters with warm island people offer precious experiences unavailable in cities.
The work’s spirit of enjoying “imperfect travel” offers fresh perspective on modern travel styles. Enjoying travel as it unfolds, including when plans go awry—this “Zatsu Tabi” spirit invites you to embark on Niigata Prefecture’s sacred site pilgrimage.
The way Awashima, a small island, has become known and visited by many through the work exemplifies wonderful fusion of anime/manga with regional tourism. Dive into the “Zatsu Tabi” world yourself and discover Niigata Prefecture’s new charms.
Sacred site pilgrimage is not mere tourism but should be conducted with love for the work and respect for the region. Following proper etiquette while enjoying memorable travel like protagonist Chika’s, create lasting memories.