Meiro no Machi Tonosho Maze Town
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Meiro no Machi Tonosho Maze Town

3.7
·166 reviews·Tonosho, Japan

Step into a charming labyrinth of narrow alleys, a historic town designed for defense and exploration, now a pilgrimage site for anime fans.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds for peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
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Meiro no Machi Tonosho Maze Town

Meiro no Machi Tonosho Maze Town

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds for peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step into a charming labyrinth of narrow alleys, a historic town designed for defense and exploration, now a pilgrimage site for anime fans.

3.7
(166 reviews)

"Lose yourself in the charming, winding streets of this historic maze town."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and potentially getting lost, so comfy footwear is a must! :athletic_shoe:

🗺️ Embrace Getting Lost

The town's maze-like structure is its main appeal. Don't stress about navigation; enjoy the serendipitous discoveries. :compass:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Labyrinthine Alleys

Labyrinthine Alleys

Lose yourself in the charming, narrow streets designed for defense and exploration. Every turn offers a new discovery.

'Teasing Master Takagi-san' Holy Land

'Teasing Master Takagi-san' Holy Land

Follow in the footsteps of anime fans exploring the iconic locations from the beloved series.

Yokai Art Installations

Yokai Art Installations

Discover whimsical and intriguing 'yokai' (Japanese supernatural beings) art pieces hidden throughout the town.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Maze

Meiro no Machi Tonosho Maze Town lives up to its name with intricate, winding alleys. Getting lost is part of the charm, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for delightful detours. It's a unique experience that feels like stepping back in time.

Holy Land & Hidden Art

This town is a significant pilgrimage site for fans of 'Teasing Master Takagi-san.' Keep an eye out for scattered 'yokai' art pieces, adding an unexpected artistic layer to your exploration of the maze-like streets.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds for peaceful exploration
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Enjoy local cafes and shops
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and potentially getting lost, so comfy footwear is a must! :athletic_shoe:

🗺️ Embrace Getting Lost

The town's maze-like structure is its main appeal. Don't stress about navigation; enjoy the serendipitous discoveries. :compass:

📸 Capture the Charm

The narrow alleys and traditional buildings offer fantastic photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:

📚 Seek Local Lore

Inquire about the town's history and the legends behind its maze-like design. :scroll:

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and potentially getting lost, so comfy footwear is a must! :athletic_shoe:

🗺️ Embrace Getting Lost

The town's maze-like structure is its main appeal. Don't stress about navigation; enjoy the serendipitous discoveries. :compass:

📸 Capture the Charm

The narrow alleys and traditional buildings offer fantastic photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:

📚 Seek Local Lore

Inquire about the town's history and the legends behind its maze-like design. :scroll:

What Travellers Say

3.7
(166 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find Meiro no Machi Tonosho Maze Town to be a charming and unique destination, living up to its 'maze' namesake with its intricate alleys. Many appreciate the historical feel and the opportunity to get lost in its winding paths. It's also a significant draw for fans of 'Teasing Master Takagi-san' seeking out filming locations.

"A cluster of Japanese buildings."

Viktor

"Excellent"

Kawing NG

"The town has complicated alleys, and the name was given because they look like a maze. It is said that it was intentionally built to protect the islanders from enemy invasion, but the exact reason is unknown.
Basically, castle towns have complicated streetscapes. This is because they are designed to prevent enemies from charging straight into them. On the other hand, they are designed to allow for interception (when attacking), so the roads are kept wide to a certain extent. However, these streets are too narrow, so could soldiers carrying guns have passed through them? Considering this, it seems that these streets were not designed but rather naturally developed.
By the way, Tokyo has been "redeveloped" recently, and the streets have become much nicer. However, until about 50 years ago, there were many small roads that were not accessible to cars, let alone bicycles. Of course, there were unpaved roads all over the city that smelled of urine and had dog (or maybe human?) s rolling around. The "20th Century Boys" ran around such towns. I wonder if the air raids were the reason why such maze-like alleys were left in Tokyo?

Immediately after the war, Tokyo was bombed by the US military and turned into a wasteland, with many lands where entire families were killed and owners unknown. I think that because other people "owned and developed" such lands without permission, the streets separated by narrow private roads were created. In any case, the "handwritten registration documents" of the time could have been easily rewritten...

This area is described in detail in Matsumoto Seicho's "Suna no Utsuwa" (Vessel of Sand), so if you are interested, please check it out.

2025.6.15"

只見荘一郎

What People Like

Charming maze-like alleys
Unique atmosphere
'Teasing Master Takagi-san' holy land

What People Dislike

Can be difficult to navigate
Narrow sidewalks

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Meiro no Machi Tonosho Maze Town is located on Tonosho Island in Kagawa Prefecture. Access typically involves taking a ferry from mainland Japan, such as from Takamatsu Port to Tonosho Port. From the port, the maze town is usually a short walk or bus ride away. Check ferry schedules in advance as they can vary.

Navigating Maze Town is intentionally challenging due to its winding, narrow alleys. While it's designed to be a maze, many visitors find it part of the fun. Having a basic map can help, but embracing the experience of getting a little lost is recommended.

The best way to explore Maze Town is on foot. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking. Take your time, wander through the alleys, and discover hidden shops, cafes, and art pieces.

Maze Town itself is best explored on foot due to its narrow streets. However, to reach the town from Tonosho Port, you can utilize local buses or taxis. Once inside the maze, walking is the primary mode of transport.

Driving a car through Meiro no Machi Tonosho Maze Town is generally not feasible or recommended. The alleys are very narrow, often too small for vehicles, and parking can be extremely limited. It's designed for pedestrian exploration.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Meiro no Machi Tonosho Maze Town itself does not typically require an entrance ticket. It's a public area with shops and streets. However, individual attractions within the town, like the art museum or specific shops, may have their own admission fees.

The town's alleys are generally accessible at all times. However, individual shops, cafes, and the art museum will have their own operating hours, usually from morning to late afternoon. It's best to check specific business hours if you have particular places in mind.

Yes, the art museum located within Meiro no Machi Tonosho Maze Town usually has an admission fee. The cost can vary, so it's advisable to check their official website or inquire locally for the most current pricing.

You can visit Maze Town on public holidays, but expect it to be busier than on a regular weekday. Shops and attractions will likely be open, but it's always a good idea to confirm their holiday operating hours beforehand.

While not as widely publicized as some larger festivals, local events or seasonal decorations might occur in Maze Town. Keeping an eye on local tourism information or community boards upon arrival can reveal any special happenings.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Explore the winding alleys, discover unique shops selling local crafts and souvenirs, enjoy meals at charming cafes, and visit the art museum. It's also a popular spot for fans of 'Teasing Master Takagi-san' to find filming locations.

Maze Town can be an interesting experience for families, but the narrow, winding alleys might be challenging with strollers. Younger children might enjoy the sense of adventure and discovery. Keep a close eye on them as it's easy to get separated.

You'll find a variety of shops, including those selling local crafts, handmade goods, souvenirs, and perhaps some unique local delicacies. It's a great place to find distinctive items not readily available elsewhere.

Yes, Maze Town has several charming cafes and small restaurants where you can enjoy local food and drinks. It's a perfect place to take a break, refuel, and soak in the atmosphere.

Meiro no Machi Tonosho Maze Town is recognized as a 'holy land' or filming location for the popular anime and manga series 'Teasing Master Takagi-san.' Fans often visit to find and photograph spots featured in the series.

📸 📸 Photography

The narrow, winding alleys themselves are the main attraction for photography. Look for interesting architectural details, the play of light and shadow, and any unique 'yokai' art installations. The 'Teasing Master Takagi-san' locations also offer iconic photo opportunities.

Taking photos can be challenging due to the narrowness of the alleys and the potential for crowds. Be mindful of other visitors and try to capture the atmosphere by focusing on the textures, patterns, and the sense of depth within the maze.

Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer light and fewer people, making for better photographic conditions. The 'golden hour' can create dramatic shadows and highlights within the narrow passages.

Generally, there are no specific restrictions on photography in the public alleys of Maze Town. However, always be respectful of private property and any 'no photography' signs within shops or the art museum.

A versatile camera, whether a smartphone or a dedicated camera, is ideal. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the narrowness of the alleys, while a prime lens can help with low-light conditions often found in shaded passages.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Meiro no Machi Tonosho Maze Town offers a sense of adventure that can appeal to families. The maze-like streets can feel like a treasure hunt for children, encouraging exploration and discovery. However, parents should be aware that the alleys are very narrow, which can be challenging with strollers or for very young children who might wander off. Keeping a close eye on children and perhaps using a carrier for infants is advisable. The scattered 'yokai' art can also add an element of fun and surprise for younger visitors.

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Explorers

This town is ideal for solo travelers who enjoy independent exploration and getting lost. The maze-like structure provides a sense of personal discovery with every turn. It's a place where you can truly immerse yourself in the atmosphere without feeling rushed. The historical context and the 'Teasing Master Takagi-san' connection offer plenty of points of interest for a solo journey of discovery.

🎬 'Teasing Master Takagi-san' Fans

For fans of the anime, this is a must-visit destination. Come prepared with screenshots or a list of iconic locations from the series to recreate your favorite scenes. The town's layout provides a perfect backdrop for this pilgrimage. Embrace the opportunity to walk the same paths as Takagi-san and Nishikata and feel a deeper connection to the beloved characters and their world.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Design of the Maze

Meiro no Machi Tonosho Maze Town, translating to 'Maze Town' in Tonosho, is renowned for its intricate network of narrow, winding alleys. The exact origins of this unique layout are debated, with theories suggesting it was intentionally designed for defense against enemy invasions during historical periods. The town's structure would have made it difficult for attackers to navigate and easy for defenders to ambush them. This defensive design is a common feature in many historical Japanese castle towns, where strategic street planning was crucial for security.

However, some observations suggest that the streets may have developed more organically over time rather than being strictly planned. The narrowness and complexity are noted as being potentially too restrictive for soldiers carrying weapons, leading to speculation that the layout evolved naturally from residential and commercial development. This organic growth, influenced by land ownership and community needs, could have resulted in the labyrinthine character that defines the town today. The historical context, whether planned or organic, imbues the maze with a sense of mystery and resilience.

This historical context is further enriched by literary connections, such as its mention in Matsumoto Seicho's novel "Suna no Utsuwa" (Vessel of Sand). The town's complex layout and the stories it holds make it a fascinating destination for those interested in history, urban planning, and Japanese culture. The blend of defensive strategy and natural development creates a unique urban landscape that continues to intrigue visitors.

A Pilgrimage for Anime Fans

For fans of the popular anime and manga series 'Teasing Master Takagi-san', Meiro no Machi Tonosho Maze Town is a significant 'holy land'. The town's distinctive alleys and charming atmosphere served as inspiration and filming locations for many scenes in the series. Visitors often come with the specific goal of finding and recreating iconic moments from the anime, making it a unique blend of tourism and fandom.

Fans meticulously identify and photograph the spots where Takagi-san and Nishikata often walked, talked, or had their playful interactions. This pilgrimage aspect adds another layer of engagement to exploring the maze. It's not just about wandering through historical streets; it's about connecting with a beloved fictional world and experiencing it firsthand. The town's natural charm perfectly complements the slice-of-life narrative of the anime, making the connection feel authentic and special.

This connection has brought a new wave of visitors to Maze Town, drawn by their affection for the characters and their stories. It highlights how cultural phenomena can revitalize interest in local destinations, offering a unique experience for both long-time residents and new fans alike. The presence of 'yokai' art scattered throughout the town also adds a touch of whimsical fantasy that resonates with the spirit of anime.

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