Let's Visit the Models of That Bridge and Pastry Shop! A Report on Visiting the Model Locations of ‘SHOSHIMIN: How to become Ordinary’ with the Cast (1)

The TV anime 'SHOSHIMIN: How to become Ordinary,' based on 'The Case of the Spring-Exclusive Strawberry Tart' and 'The Case of the Summer-Exclusive Tropical Parfait' by Naoki Prize-winning author Honobu Yonezawa, renowned for his Classic Literature Club series including 'Hyouka,' aired starting in July 2024.

Following the broadcast, the announcement was made for the second season of the TV anime, based on the sequels and the conclusion to the quartet—'The Case of the Autumn-Exclusive Chestnut Kinton' and 'The Case of the Winter-Exclusive Bonbon Chocolat,' which will air from April 2025.

In the opening, ending sequences, and throughout the actual episodes of 'SHOSHIMIN: How to become Ordinary,' the streets of Gifu City, Gifu Prefecture, which served as the models in the series, make a striking appearance. This article details the visit with the cast, including Shuichiro Umeda as Jogoro Kobato, Hina Yomiya as Yuki Osanai, and Makoto Furukawa as Kengo Dojima, to the model locations of the series.

Chusetsu Bridge

Chusetsu Bridge, which spans the Nagara River flowing through Gifu City, appears in scenes such as where Kobato and Osanai move by bicycle in episode 1, as well as in various conversational imagery sequences. The nearby steel tower is also a notable sight.

Gifu North Senior High School

Gifu North High School served as the model for Funado High School, where Kobato and his friends attend. There’s the notice board where the three meet in episode 1, and the bench near the school entrance where Osanai waits for Kobato. Note that Gifu North Senior High School does not allow entry or unauthorized photography by outsiders.

Princess Branche Patisserie KURA

Serving as the model for the pastry shop "Humpty Dumpty," visited by Kobato and Osanai in episode 3 and elsewhere. The colorful chairs, which also made an impression in the series, stand out even from outside the shop.

Yanagase Shopping Street

Appearing in episodes 2 and 7, the Yanagase Shopping Street is also one of the spots featured in a stamp rally being held in Gifu City through November 10, where you solve mysteries while touring different locations.

'Minna no Mori' Gifu Media Cosmos

Also a spot in the stamp rally, it’s a complex cultural facility comprising the municipal central library and the civic activity exchange center, among others. Inside the library, there are panels and special corners dedicated to the 'SHOSHIMIN: How to become Ordinary' series. Additionally, a statue of Osanai in progress is on display for a limited time.

Gifu City Tourist Information Center (inside JR Gifu Station)

Similarly, until November 10, a quiz featuring exclusive voices of Kobato, Osanai, and Dojima can be enjoyed on the Tokaido Shinkansen. Participants in the quiz can receive a bookmark with a QR code to listen to special voices and an original clear file, obtainable at the Gifu City Tourist Information Center. Be sure to check them out when using the Tokaido Shinkansen while visiting the model locations.

A Scenic Spot Overlooking Gifu City! A Report on the 'SHOSHIMIN: How to become Ordinary' Model Location Tour with the Cast (2)

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Interview/Text/Photography by kato
(C)米澤穂信・東京創元社／小市民シリーズ製作委員会