【Yuru Camp Pilgrimage】 Tracing the Footsteps of Nadeshiko and Rin on the Oigawa Railway (Complete Guide)

"This is the place where Nadeshiko was running...!"

Have you ever been captivated by the scenery while watching Laid-Back Camp (Yuru Camp)? especially the episodes set in the Oigawa River basin (Season 3 and Manga Vol. 10-11), which are filled with the thrill of suspension bridges, breathtaking views, and delicious local food. It creates a sense of wanderlust that fans just can't resist.

In fact, the Oigawa Railway line is the ultimate anime pilgrimage spot where you can physically feel the atmosphere of the series.

In this article, we will guide you on a journey to "trace the footsteps of Nadeshiko, Rin, and Ayano," capturing the excitement of past collaborations while enjoying a trip that anyone can take today.

Start Your Journey at "Shin-Kanaya Station"

The best place to start your story is Shin-Kanaya Station, the main hub of the Oigawa Railway. Here, you can enjoy the retro station building that appears in the anime. Don't forget to check out the SL Latte and original goods at "Plaza Loco" across from the station.

Adopting Nadeshiko's mindset of "food comes first," picking up the famous "Oigawa Furusato Bento" (station lunch box) is also a great idea. Its rustic flavor will surely heighten your excitement for the journey ahead.

The Fated Meeting Point: "Senzu Station"

After rocking on a steam locomotive or train for over an hour up the Oigawa River, you'll arrive at Senzu Station, a destination for many fans.

This is the key spot where Nadeshiko, Rin, and Ayano finally met up in the story. The moment you step onto the station platform, you'll likely exclaim, "Ah! I've seen this composition in the anime!"

Around the station, you can find shops serving "Dam Curry," which the characters might have enjoyed. If you venture a bit further to KADODE OOIGAWA (connected to Kadode Station), you can try the green soft-serve ice cream featured in the series (spoiler: it might not be wasabi flavor!).

Breathtaking Views and Thrills! "Suspension Bridges"

When talking about the Oigawa arc of Yuru Camp, we cannot forget the suspension bridges. While the anime featured hardcore bridges like the "Death Bridge" (Hatanagi Grand Suspension Bridge), here are two accessible holy sites recommended for sightseeing:

1. Shiogo Suspension Bridge (Koigane Bridge)

A thrilling suspension bridge that spans right over the Oigawa Railway tracks. If you look down, you might see an SL or train passing directly beneath you! Will you cross it coolly like Rin, or fearfully like Nadeshiko? Which type are you?

2. Dream Suspension Bridge (Sumatakyo Onsen)

Located in Sumatakyo Onsen, accessible by bus from Senzu Station, this is a world-famous suspension bridge. Walking over the lake surface, which shines turquoise blue due to the Tyndall effect, is truly an extraordinary experience. There is a romantic legend that if you make a wish in the middle of the bridge, it will come true. But first, just enjoy the sway and the magnificent view with your whole body.

The Secluded Station on the Lake: "Okuoikojo Station"

The highlight of the trip is undoubtedly Okuoikojo Station. This is the place where Nadeshiko gazed from the observatory, breathless at its beauty.

After climbing a steep grade on the Abt system train, this station appears as if it were left alone floating on the lake. It is a mysterious and beautiful space. If you walk a little from the station to the observation spot on the opposite shore, you will see the panorama of the station integrated with the iron bridge known as the "Rainbow Bridge," exactly as it is in the anime.

Take a deep breath here and have a sip of a warm drink you brought along. Isn't this the ultimate luxury in the Yuru Camp style?

Tips for Enjoying Your Pilgrimage

Here are some tips to enjoy your pilgrimage on the Oigawa Railway 120%:

Use the "Oigawa Excursion Ticket" (Shuyu Kippu) For this trip covering a wide area, a free pass ticket is essential. Limited design tickets are sometimes released during collaboration periods.
Keep Your Schedule "Laid-Back" (Yuru) Unlike city trains, the number of trains here is limited. The correct mindset is "If I miss a train, I'll just enjoy the extra time here."
Check Collaboration Info Oigawa Railway regularly holds collaboration events with Yuru Camp (such as stamp rallies and special in-train announcements). Be sure to check the official website before visiting to see if any events are currently being held.

Conclusion: Step Into the Story

An anime pilgrimage isn't just about seeing the sights; it's about walking while imagining, "The characters saw this scenery too."

The nostalgic and warm landscape of the Oigawa Railway matches the world of Yuru Camp surprisingly well. Why not pack your favorite camping gear (or maybe just some cup noodles) in your backpack and head to Oigawa for your next holiday?

You are sure to find your own "best outdoor experience."