by The Amago Sōbe Manga Gallery in Amagasaki has officially been selected as one of the “88 Anime Holy Lands in Japan You’ll Want to Visit” for 2026, solidifying its reputation as a must-visit destination for fans of the long-running anime Nintama Rantaro.
The gallery showcases original artwork from the manga Rantaro the Failed Ninja, the beloved series that inspired the anime. With this recognition, Amagasaki has become a true “sacred place” (seichi) for anime pilgrimage enthusiasts
What Is the Amago Sōbe Manga Gallery?
The gallery is dedicated to manga artist Amago Sobe, creator of Rantaro the Failed Ninja. The manga was serialized in the Asahi Elementary School Student Newspaper and later adapted into the television anime Nintama Rantaro, which has aired since 1993 and remains popular with children and longtime fans alike.
Opened in June 2012, the gallery features:
- Original hand-drawn manga manuscripts
- Character sketches and production materials
- Special exhibitions related to the anime
- Seasonal displays and commemorative illustrations
Because Amago Sōbe was born in Amagasaki and still resides there, the gallery holds deep personal and cultural ties to the city.
Why Amagasaki Is Special for Nintama Fans
One unique aspect of Rantaro the Failed Ninja is its connection to real-life locations in Amagasaki.
Several character surnames in the series—such as:
- Inadera
- Kema
- Kukuchi
—are derived from actual district names within the city. This clever use of local geography has created a strong bond between the fictional ninja academy and the real-world community.
For fans, visiting Amagasaki offers a special thrill: walking the same streets that inspired character names and settings. This practice is part of Japan’s growing trend known as anime pilgrimage (seichi junrei), where fans travel to real locations connected to their favorite series.
Selected as One of Japan’s “88 Anime Holy Lands” (2026)
The “88 Anime Holy Lands” initiative was launched in 2018 by the Anime Tourism Association to promote tourism through anime and manga culture.
The selection process includes:
- Fan votes from Japan and overseas
- Cultural significance
- Tourism potential
- Local support and engagement
Being included in the 2026 list highlights Amagasaki’s importance within Japan’s anime tourism network.
Visitor Numbers and Local Impact
According to the Amagasaki Tourism Bureau, which operates the gallery, interest has remained strong over the years.
In May 2013 alone, the gallery welcomed approximately 10,000 visitors, partly boosted by a related film screening event. Since then, the site has continued to attract fans from across Japan, especially during special exhibitions or anniversary celebrations.
A representative from the tourism bureau commented:
“We aim to create a facility beloved by fans, where visitors can experience both the charm of Amago’s work and the city of Amagasaki.”
The gallery has contributed to:
- Increased local tourism
- Economic benefits for nearby businesses
- Greater recognition of Amagasaki as an anime-friendly city
Other Anime Holy Lands in Hyogo Prefecture
Hyogo Prefecture is home to several well-known anime pilgrimage destinations.
Other selected locations include:
- Nishinomiya – Setting for The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya
- Takarazuka City Tezuka Osamu Manga Museum – Dedicated to manga legend Osamu Tezuka
These destinations form a growing cultural tourism circuit that celebrates Japan’s rich anime and manga heritage.
Why Anime Tourism Continues to Grow
Anime tourism has become a powerful tool for regional revitalization in Japan. Fans are no longer satisfied with simply watching their favorite shows—they want to experience the real-world locations behind them.
For series like Nintama Rantaro, which have spanned multiple generations, this emotional connection is especially strong. Parents who grew up watching the anime now visit the gallery with their children, creating cross-generational fandom.
Planning Your Visit
If you’re new to anime pilgrimage, here’s what you should know:
Location: Amagasaki City, Hyogo Prefecture
Opened: June 2012
Main Attraction: Original artwork from Rantaro the Failed Ninja
Admission: Check official tourism sources for updated hours and fees
Amagasaki is conveniently located between Osaka and Kobe, making it easy to include in a broader Kansai sightseeing itinerary
Final Thoughts
The recognition of the Amago Sōbe Manga Gallery as one of Japan’s “88 Anime Holy Lands” for 2026 confirms its importance to fans of Nintama Rantaro.
More than just a museum, it represents the lasting impact of manga and anime on local communities and national tourism. For fans of ninja adventures and heartfelt comedy, Amagasaki is no longer just a city—it’s a sacred destination.
