by Chichibu is one of Japan’s must-visit destinations for anime lovers!
While Akihabara is well known as the heart of anime and pop culture, Chichibu offers a more immersive experience—you can actually visit the real-life locations featured in popular anime series.
As Japanese anime has become a major part of modern culture, many international visitors come to Japan to explore these iconic spots. If you’re planning an anime-themed trip, make sure to include Chichibu on your itinerary for an authentic taste of Japan’s vibrant pop culture!
1. Visit “Anohana”
Jorin-Temple
(The above image is from Google Map)
Jorin-Temple is the meeting place for Cho-Heiwa-Busters. Anohana version “Ema”(Wooden plaque that you write on in what you wish in the future) is also sold at this temple.
The Cho-Heiwa-Busters members were playing hide-and-seek here.
Keyaki Park
(The above image is from Google Map)
The main character, Jintan, struggles to find his path after failing his high school entrance exam—a key moment in Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day. The park where this scene takes place is just a few minutes’ walk from Jorin Temple.
Many Anohana fans visit this spot to relive the emotion of the series, often sitting on the same bench as Jintan to take photos and recreate the memorable scene.
Chichibu Shrine
(The above image is from Google Map)
The photo above was taken right in front of the shrine gate, where Jintan once waited for Yukiatsu.
Nearby, you can also find the pathway where the Anohana friends walked together—it runs alongside the Chichibu Railway, not far from Chichibu Shrine. When you visit, take a moment to walk this path and relive the touching scenes from the anime!
(The below image is from Google Map)
2. Walk through “Kokosake”
Bokusui Falls
If you walk up to Hitsujiyama Park from Seibu Chichibu Station, you’ll notice a small path along the way that leads to a charming little waterfall. This spot plays a special role in The Anthem of the Heart (Kokosake)—it’s where the main character, Jun, has her voice sealed away by the fairy.
It’s a quiet, beautiful place that captures the emotional essence of the film, making it a must-visit for Kokosake fans.
Yokoze Station
(The above image is from Google Map)
The peaceful atmosphere perfectly matches the natural scenery surrounding Yokoze Station. Located just one stop from Seibu Chichibu Station on the Seibu Chichibu Line, this quiet spot captures the charm of the countryside.
Fans of The Anthem of the Heart (Kokosake) will recognize Yokoze Station as the place where Natsuki and Taiki have their memorable conversation in the movie—a must-see location for anyone retracing the film’s story.
Daiji-Temple
(The above image is from Google Map)
In The Anthem of the Heart (Kokosake), this is the spot where local residents were preparing decorations for the festival. It’s also where Jun opens up to Takumi and confesses the secret behind why her voice was sealed.
Visiting this location brings the film’s emotional climax to life—you can almost feel the same heartfelt atmosphere that made this scene so unforgettable.
3. Go to “Sora Ao”
Chichibu City Hall
(The above image is from Google Map)
Chichibu City Hall was heavily damaged during the major earthquake in March 2011, but it was beautifully rebuilt in 2017 with a fresh, modern design.
In The Anthem of the Heart (Kokosake), this building is featured as Akane’s workplace. For fans of the movie, it’s another meaningful stop that connects the real city of Chichibu with the world of the film.
Chichibu Muse Park Music Hall
(The above image is from Google Map)
This location also appears in The Anthem of the Heart (Kokosake) as the venue for the music festival scene. It’s here that Shinnosuke and Akane share a quiet conversation, adding a heartfelt touch to the story.
Standing at this spot, you can almost imagine the sounds of the festival and the emotions that filled the air during that memorable scene.
Tomoe River Bridge
(The above image is from Google Map)
About a 20-minute walk from Kagemori Station on the Chichibu Railway, you’ll come across a striking red bridge spanning the Arakawa River.
This bridge appears in the final scene of The Anthem of the Heart (Kokosake), where Akane and Shinno are seen flying over it—a powerful and emotional moment that beautifully captures the film’s theme of hope and connection. It’s a perfect spot for fans to visit and relive the magic of the movie’s ending.
