Letter 8
Literally meaning “four pillars”, the name Yohashira was derived from the existence of four gods within the shrine. A shrine with so many deities gathered in one place is rare even in Japan. Thus, this shrine is known as a place where wishes can be granted, and the protagonists come to make a wish here as well in book 2. They return here to make a promise here in book 6.
A number of festivals are held on or near this shrine’s grounds throughout the year. See our Events page for further details.

Letter 7
The students can be found discussing their New Year’s plans in front of the traditional storehouse Kurassic-kan in book 4.

Letter 18
Built in 1339, the shrine is painted an inviting shade of bright orange. A number of festivals take place here throughout the year, and in book 5, the shrine serves as a rendezvous point for the students.

Letters 2 and 8
The background for the covers of books 1 and 2, this sprawling forested park is the setting for a number of important discussions between characters both in the books and the movie. You should also check out the Former High School Memorial Hall.

In the spring, you can stroll along cherry blossom lined trails like in the movie. You can also have a picnic here like two of the characters do in book 2.

The symbol of Matsumoto, the castle not only makes an appearance in the story, but appears on the cover of book four. Climb the ancient steps of one of the oldest castles in Japan.

Letter 20
In the springtime, the hill is decorated with cherry blossoms against a backdrop of the snow-capped Japan Alps. In the manga, one of the final scenes involving a time capsule plays out at this location.