Zatsu Tabi: That's Journey

ZatsuTabi -That's Journey-

Characters

Chika Suzugamori

MAIN

Koyomi Hasunuma

SUPPORTING

Yui Unoki

SUPPORTING

Riri Tenkuubashi

SUPPORTING

Fuyune Koujiya

SUPPORTING

Yoshimoto-san

SUPPORTING

Narrator

SUPPORTING

Zatsu Tabi: That’s Journey – Season 1: A Heartfelt Odyssey of Self-Discovery

Zatsu Tabi: That’s Journey, a slice-of-life anime adapted from Kenta Ishizaka’s manga, premiered on April 7, 2025, and concluded its 12-episode run in June 2025. Produced by Makaria, this charming series follows Chika Suzugamori, an 18-year-old aspiring manga artist, as she embarks on an impromptu journey across Japan to find inspiration after facing repeated rejections in her career. With its blend of humor, heartwarming moments, and stunning visuals, Zatsu Tabi Season 1 offers a refreshing take on the themes of self-discovery, friendship, and the beauty of unplanned adventures.

A Unique Premise Rooted in Spontaneity

The story centers on Chika Suzugamori, a college student and rookie manga artist who, after having three drafts rejected in a single day, feels stuck in a creative rut. Advised by her editor to incorporate her interests into her work, Chika struggles to find inspiration as an indoor enthusiast obsessed with manga. On a whim, she posts a poll on social media, letting her followers decide her next destination. This spontaneous decision sends her on a journey northward from Tokyo, kicking off a series of adventures that form the heart of Zatsu Tabi. The title itself is a playful pun: “zatsu” (ざつ) means “rough” or “slipshod” in Japanese, while sounding like “that’s” in English, reflecting the show’s theme of embracing imperfect, unplanned travels.

Each episode follows Chika as she visits real-world locations across Japan, from the historic Mount Haguro in Aizu-Wakamatsu to the scenic landscapes of Hiroshima’s Miyajima. Her travels are guided by social media polls, a unique gimmick that blurs the line between fiction and reality, as the manga’s creator, Kenta Ishizaka, reportedly used real X polls to determine Chika’s destinations. This meta approach adds authenticity, making the series feel like a travelogue brought to life.

A Journey of Growth and Connection

At its core, Zatsu Tabi is about Chika’s personal growth. Her initial trip to Mount Haguro, with its grueling 1,225-step climb, symbolizes her struggle to overcome creative and emotional hurdles. The physical exertion and the serene beauty of the shrine at the summit leave her refreshed and motivated, setting the tone for the season’s exploration of how travel can heal and inspire.

Chika is joined by a small but vibrant cast of characters, including her free-spirited friend Koyomi “Hassu” Hasunuma and their studious junior, Fuyune. The chemistry between the trio is a highlight, with their banter and camaraderie providing both humor and emotional depth. The season finale, in particular, showcases their bond, as Riri and Fuyune join Chika, reinforcing the theme of friendship as a source of strength. Fans on platforms like Reddit have praised the show’s “cute girls doing cute things” (CGDCT) vibe, with some noting subtle yuri undertones that add warmth to the group dynamic.

The series also introduces a mellow-voiced narrator, Hitoshi Kubota, whose commentary provides historical context and gentle encouragement, enhancing the leisurely pace. His presence, reminiscent of narrators in Yuru Camp and Ranking of Kings, adds a comforting layer to the storytelling.

Visual and Musical Brilliance

One of Zatsu Tabi’s standout features is its breathtaking animation, particularly the backgrounds. Studio Makaria, known for providing background art for series like Kino’s Journey and Wandering Witch: The Journey of Elaina, makes its debut as a lead production studio with this series. The photorealistic depictions of Japan’s landscapes, from forested shrines to bustling shopping streets, are a visual treat, inviting viewers to explore the country alongside Chika. However, some fans have noted that the animation occasionally relies on edited photographs, which can feel jarring.

The music, composed by Yoshiaki Fujisawa (A Place Further Than the Universe), complements the series’ serene tone. Gentle scores and birdsong accompany Chika’s travels, creating a restful atmosphere that aligns with the show’s themes of relaxation and reflection.

Themes and Reception

Zatsu Tabi excels as a love letter to Japan’s lesser-known destinations and the idea of embracing spontaneity. Each episode serves as a mini-travel guide, highlighting local cultures, foods, and landmarks, making it particularly appealing to viewers interested in Japanese travel. Fans have compared it to Yuru Camp for its slow-paced, cathartic storytelling and focus on exploration, though some argue it lacks the standout spark of more dramatic anime in the Spring 2025 season.

The series has garnered a modest but dedicated following, with a 6.355 weighted mean rating on Anime News Network and a 7/10 from some fans on MyAnimeList. Reviewers appreciate its authenticity, noting that Chika’s struggles as a manga artist mirror Ishizaka’s own experiences, lending depth to her character. The meta twist, where Ishizaka draws Chika’s fictional manga Ashita no Ashita under her name in real life, adds a delightful layer of creativity.

Critics have pointed out minor flaws, such as the occasional overuse of static backgrounds and a lack of narrative surprises, as the show prioritizes atmosphere over plot twists. Still, its charm lies in its simplicity and relatability, offering a “great and simple anime for a Monday evening after a long day at work,” as one MyAnimeList user put it.

Where to Watch

Zatsu Tabi Season 1 aired on Japanese networks like AT-X, Tokyo MX, BS11, and YTV, with a premiere on April 7, 2025, at 10:00 PM JST. Internationally, fans can stream the English-subbed and dubbed versions on Crunchyroll and HiAnime, though a subscription is required. The first episode was also previewed on Kadokawa’s YouTube channel on March 1, 2025.

Final Thoughts

Zatsu Tabi: That’s Journey Season 1 is a delightful blend of slice-of-life charm and travelogue inspiration. Chika’s journey, driven by social media polls and a desire to break free from creative stagnation, resonates with anyone who’s ever felt stuck and sought solace in new experiences. With its gorgeous visuals, endearing cast, and heartfelt exploration of Japan’s hidden gems, the series is a perfect pick for fans of Yuru Camp or anyone craving a relaxing, uplifting anime. While it may not dominate the Spring 2025 season, its quiet authenticity and focus on personal growth make it a journey worth taking.

As Chika herself learns, “A good traveler has no fixed plans and is not intent on arriving.” Zatsu Tabi invites viewers to embrace the beauty of the unexpected, one spontaneous step at a time.

Rating: 7.5/10
Recommended for: Fans of slice-of-life anime, travel enthusiasts, and those seeking a feel-good story of self-discovery.

Sources: MyAnimeList, Anime News Network, Reddit, IMDb, Crunchyroll, and the official Zatsu Tabi website.