Top 3 anime to inspire sustainable travel in rural Japan

Ready for an unforgettable adventure? Embark on a unique journey through the enchanting landscapes of rural Japan, guided by the spirit of anime. In this column, discover how anime serves as a source of inspiration for sustainable travel. They can unveil hidden gems and cultural treasures that weave seamlessly into the tapestry of Japan’s countryside. Let the vibrant world of anime illuminate your path as you explore the sustainable beauty and rich traditions that await in these lesser-known destinations.

“Only Yesterday (Omohide poroporo)” fosters appreciation for country living and its culture

Only Yesterday (1991) is a feature-length animated film produced by Studio Ghibli, released in 1991. The story follows Taeko, a 27-year-old Tokyo native who has always longed for the countryside. Together with her fifth-grade self, she revisits her past and rediscovers herself in the rural landscapes of Yamagata. The film was also released in the United States in February 2016.

In the movie, the process of cultivating safflowers is meticulously depicted, from flower picking to the creation of the red rice cakes used as dye. The protagonist, who feels a sense of unease in the city, embarks on a journey of self-discovery, seeking a new place of belonging while being healed by the rich nature and warmth of rural life. The first destination she heads to is a safflower field.

The actual location that served as inspiration is the Takase area in Yamagata City. It’s approximately a 30-minute train and walk or a little over 15 minutes by car from Yamagata Station. Presently, around 17 to 18 farming households cultivate safflowers on about two hectares of land. In July, the peak season, the district hosts an annual safflower festival featuring flower picking, safflower dyeing experiences, cut flower sales and local performances.

“Laid-Back Camp (Yuru kyan△)” depicts outdoor girls’ adventure at foot of Mt. Fuji

Laid-Back Camp (2018) is an outdoor anime that portrays the daily lives of high school girls enjoying outdoor hobbies at a campsite in Yamanashi Prefecture. The English version of the manga is available, both in paperback and Kindle editions.

True to its title, the series is a heartwarming depiction of high school girls leisurely enjoying camping. In Laid-Back Camp, the season depicted is winter. Considered the off-season, the campsites are less crowded, allowing for a more private and enjoyable experience. Beyond that, the winter setting enhances the appeal of camping, with the warmth of camp meals tasting even more delicious in the chilly outdoors. Hot springs also provide a comforting respite for the cold body, and breathtaking sunsets and sunrises shine even more vividly in the clear winter air. The charm of winter camping, offering these delightful experiences, is a highlight of this anime.

Whether you’re a camping enthusiast or a complete beginner to the outdoors, the content is enjoyable. The work offers a charming mix of specialized knowledge and camping know-how. You’ll find solace in the heroines as they cook outdoors amidst the majestic scenery of Yamanashi Prefecture.

“Sakura Quest” illustrates the reality of community revitalization projects

Sakura Quest (2017) is a work-themed anime that follows Yuno, who is in the midst of job hunting, as she plans revitalization projects in the rural town of Manoyama with her friends. The English version of the series is available on Blu-ray.

Manoyama, once bustling with tourists, has now fallen into decline, becoming a desolate countryside town. The unique and innovative setting, where heroines appointed as rural tourism ambassadors take center stage, adds to the charm. The anime realistically portrays the challenges and struggles of regional revitalization.

The rural town of Manoyama, portrayed in the series, is modeled after Nanto City in Toyama Prefecture. The western part of Nanto City is mostly mountainous, featuring notable peaks such as Mount Iō, Ningyō-yama, and Ōkasa-yama, which are part of the New Japan Alps.

Interestingly, Manoyama City and Nanto City established a sister city relationship through a signing ceremony in 2019. This unique connection between a fictional town in an anime and a real city marked the first time such a sister-city relationship was formed.

Remember, sustainable travel is not just about minimizing your carbon footprint. It’s about forging meaningful connections with the places you visit and leaving a positive impact on the communities that welcome you. So, pack your bags, set out on your adventure. Let the magic of anime inspire a journey that not only explores the beauty of rural Japan but also contributes to its preservation for generations to come.