Zatsu Tabi Episode 3: The Joys of Off-Season Travel with Friends

The third episode of Zatsu Tabi highlights the benefits of traveling with companions, even though the author of these lines tends to prefer solo trips. The episode showcases Chika, Koyomi, and Yui on their journeys, creating a pleasant, relaxing atmosphere without becoming dull.

Relaxed Off-Season Travel: Chika's Exploration of Kagawa

Although my knowledge of traveling in Japan is limited, it seems logical to avoid peak travel times. Nevertheless, Chika and her Kouhai, Yui, set out to explore Kagawa. This region of Japan, known for Udon noodles, soy sauce ice cream, cultural attractions, and the Kankakei Gorge, seems like a relaxed travel destination.

My enthusiasm for anime, Japanese food, and the nature of Japan still doesn't lead me to put Japan on my top travel destinations list. It doesn't even crack my top 15. Therefore, I haven't put much thought into how to get around in Japan. However, Zatsu Tabi gives the impression that Japan is very pedestrian and public transportation-friendly.

The focus of this review, however, is the third episode of Zatsu Tabi. Although not much exciting happens, two essential insights can be drawn from this episode: traveling during peak season is often unpleasant, and we are rarely aware of how much appreciation others have for us.

The first point is self-explanatory. Those who want to save money and avoid crowds are best off traveling during the off-season. Most places are still accessible then, allowing for cheaper trips and better experiences. The second point, however, particularly got me thinking.

Unexpected Appreciation: The Perspective of Others

It's a simple fact that we rarely truly consider: the perception others have of us is always different from our self-perception. Small actions that may seem insignificant to us can be admired by others. The scene in which Yui tells Chika her admiration and the significance of her actions for her was one of the highlights of the series so far.

Often, it's difficult to express certain feelings in familiar surroundings. However, a new environment can help to say things that are otherwise difficult to articulate.

Conclusion: A Niche Anime Experience

It's conceivable that Zatsu Tabi will become a niche anime over the course of the season. While travel appeals to most people, cultural travel doesn't necessarily share this broad appeal, and that's what the series focuses on. Viewers who don't like slow travel might therefore drop off more easily. Despite the repetitive plot, "That's Journey" remains one of the best slice-of-life series of the current season.

The series reminds us that it's worth taking on new perspectives and appreciating the little things in life, both when traveling and in everyday life. Perhaps Zatsu Tabi will inspire us to wander off the beaten path ourselves and gather unexpected encounters and insights along the way.

Sources: Screenshots via Crunchyroll ©Kenta Ishizaka 2023/KADOKAWA/”Zatsu Tabi” Production Committee