Anime Pilgrimage Guide to Kyushu | Spots in Fukuoka, Kumamoto, and Nagasaki

Kyushu: A Hidden Gem for Anime Pilgrimages

Compared to the Kanto and Kansai regions, Kyushu flies under the radar, but it is full of compelling anime pilgrimage destinations. Many titles are set against the region's lush natural scenery and historic townscapes, making it easy to combine pilgrimage visits with general sightseeing. That dual appeal is what makes Kyushu special.

This article covers recommended spots in Fukuoka, Kumamoto, and Nagasaki. Use the trip planner to build an efficient route that ties everything together.

Fukuoka Prefecture

Kamado Shrine (Dazaifu) -- Demon Slayer

Kamado Shrine shares its name with the protagonist Kamado Tanjiro, making it a place of special significance for fans of "Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba." Located at the foot of Mt. Homan behind Dazaifu Tenmangu, the shrine is also known as a place of worship for matchmaking blessings.

• Highlights -- A modern-design amulet hall, votive tablets (ema) drawn by Demon Slayer fans, and the hiking trail up Mt. Homan
• Access -- About 10 minutes by community bus from Dazaifu Station on the Nishitetsu Dazaifu Line
• Time needed -- About 1 to 2 hours (half a day if combined with Dazaifu Tenmangu)

Pairing a visit here with Dazaifu Tenmangu makes for a route that covers both general sightseeing and anime pilgrimage in one go.

Hita City -- Attack on Titan

Hita City in Oita Prefecture is the hometown of "Attack on Titan" creator Isayama Hajime, and has gained attention as a pilgrimage destination for the series. The Oyama district of Hita is home to the Attack on Titan Museum, featuring character bronze statues and original artwork on display.

• Highlights -- Attack on Titan Museum, bronze statues including Levi, and the historic Mameda-machi district
• Access -- About 20 minutes by car from Hita Station on the JR Kyudai Main Line
• Tip -- Do not miss the local specialty, Hita yakisoba (stir-fried noodles)

Kitakyushu City -- Galaxy Express 999

Kokura, in Kitakyushu City, has deep ties to the late manga artist Matsumoto Leiji. Character statues from "Galaxy Express 999" and "Captain Harlock" are scattered throughout the streets. A simple stroll around Kokura Station is enough to immerse yourself in the Matsumoto Leiji universe.

Kumamoto Prefecture

Hitoyoshi City -- Natsume's Book of Friends

Hitoyoshi, the model for the setting of "Natsume's Book of Friends" (Natsume Yuujin-cho), is a quiet town along the Kuma River surrounded by beautiful rural landscapes. The scenery depicted in the anime remains largely untouched, and fans will find countless moments that stir deep emotion.

• Okoba Station -- The model for a station in the series. Japan's only station that combines both a loop line and a switchback
• Hitoyoshi Castle Ruins -- A historic site that captures the atmosphere of the series
• Kuma River scenery -- The backdrop for scenes where Natsume walks through the countryside

Visiting Hitoyoshi, which has been recovering from devastating flooding in 2020, also serves as a way to support the local community.

Kumamoto City -- One Piece

Kumamoto Prefecture is the birthplace of "One Piece" creator Oda Eiichiro, and bronze statues of Luffy and his crew have been installed at locations throughout the prefecture. Built to support recovery after the 2016 Kumamoto earthquakes, these statues have become a new sightseeing route connecting disaster-affected areas.

• Luffy statue at the Prefectural Office -- The first and most iconic statue
• Sabo statue in Aso -- Located in front of Aso Station
• Nami statue at Grandmesse Kumamoto -- A symbol of reconstruction
• Zoro statue in Mashiki Town -- Placed in one of the hardest-hit areas

Nagasaki Prefecture

Goto Islands -- Barakamon

The Goto Islands, the setting of "Barakamon," captivate visitors with their stunning ocean views and the simple rhythms of island life. The laid-back pace depicted in the series is something you can experience firsthand.

• Fukue Island -- The main model for the setting. The historic churches and beautiful beaches are additional draws
• Access -- About 1 hour 25 minutes by jetfoil from Nagasaki Port, or about 40 minutes by plane from Fukuoka Airport
• Best season -- Summer (July to September), when the sea is at its most beautiful

Nagasaki City -- Iroduku: The World in Colors

The anime "Iroduku: The World in Colors" by P.A.WORKS features many real locations in Nagasaki City. Glover Garden, Megane Bridge, and the sloping streets of Nagasaki are depicted faithfully, making pilgrimage here feel like a leisurely city walk.

Getting Around Kyushu: Transportation Tips

JR Kyushu Rail Passes

JR Kyushu's rail passes are an excellent deal for getting around the region.

• Northern Kyushu Pass (3 days) -- Unlimited rides in the Fukuoka, Saga, Nagasaki, and Oita areas
• All Kyushu Pass (3 or 5 days) -- Unlimited rides on all JR lines across Kyushu
• Sightseeing trains -- Scenic trains like the "Yufuin no Mori" and "Kawasemi Yamasemi" are an experience in themselves

Renting a Car

Bus service to some rural spots can be infrequent, so renting a car is worth considering. Having a vehicle is especially helpful for visiting Hitoyoshi and making the rounds of the One Piece statues.

Suggested 3-Day Itinerary

2-Night / 3-Day Kyushu Anime Pilgrimage

1. Day 1 -- Arrive at Fukuoka Airport, visit Dazaifu and Kamado Shrine, stay overnight in Fukuoka
2. Day 2 -- Hita (Attack on Titan) then Hitoyoshi (Natsume's Book of Friends), stay overnight in Kumamoto
3. Day 3 -- Kumamoto City (One Piece statue tour), depart from Fukuoka Airport

For a more detailed, customized route based on your schedule and budget, use the AI trip planner.

Wrapping Up

Kyushu is a captivating region where rich natural scenery, incredible food culture, and anime pilgrimages all come together. It takes a bit more effort to reach, but the sense of discovery when you arrive is all the greater. Build your travel plan and start mapping out a Kyushu pilgrimage today.