Hi, this is Izumitani from the Ehime Film Commission (Ehime FC).
From a film commission perspective, the Mitsu area in Matsuyama Ehime is the ultimate holy ground for Ganbatte Ikimasshoi (Give It All). In the drama version, Etsuko’s house (played by Anne Suzuki) was located in Mitsu, and many scenes with Sekimoto (played by Ryo Nishikido) were also filmed here.
First Stop: Baishinji Station
Getting off at Baishinji Station, I first paid respects to the famous “Handkerchief Tying” tradition from Tokyo Love Story (1991, Fuji TV).
It’s incredible that, even 33 years after the show aired, people still tie handkerchiefs here! Is it the generation carrying on the tradition, or is it new fans discovering the classic? Either way, it shows the lasting impact of a masterpiece.
Walking Towards Minatoyama Station
Passing Mican Park, I walked along Prefectural Route 9 toward Minatoyama Station—this scene is also depicted in the anime!
If you’re interested in history, I recommend stopping by the Akiyama Brothers’ Statue in Baishinji. They were the main characters in the historical drama Saka no Ue no Kumo (Clouds above the Hill ) (2009–2011).
Heading Towards Baishinji Beach
Walking along Prefectural Route 19, you’ll notice a sign pointing to Takahama Community Center. If you turn right into the narrow path, you’ll see Baishinji Beach ahead. But before you get there, you’ll cross a railway crossing—so be careful! Once you pass the crossing, you’ll see a café Buena Vista on your left, and soon, you’ll arrive at Baishinji Beach. Standing by the shoreline, then turning around, you’ll see the exact scenery depicted in the anime.
Perfect Photo Moment
Every 15 minutes, the bright orange Iyo Railway train passes by, contrasting beautifully with the white of Buena Vista, the green of nature, and the blue of the sky—a perfect shot! 📸✨
I was amazed by the attention to detail in the anime, down to “Blue Angel,” a resort apartment used for filming!
Imagining Etsuko and her friends rowing their boat on the sea, I made my way back to Prefectural Route 19.
Next Stop: Soft Time!
Besides Takahama Community Center, there’s another railway crossing with a great atmosphere—I highly recommend stopping there! Continuing along Prefectural Route 19, you’ll spot Soft Time in the distance after a large left curve! I can’t wait for the next stop!