ZatsuTabi -Thats Journey- [Season 1 Episode 1]

“Zatsu Tabi: That’s Journey” Episode 1 Review – A Wholesome Start to a Traveler’s Tale

Introduction
Spring 2025 brought us Zatsu Tabi: That’s Journey, an anime adaptation of Kenta Ishizaka’s manga, produced by Makaria. The first episode, titled Adventure Awaits, introduces us to Chika Suzugamori, an aspiring mangaka whose drafts keep getting rejected by her editor. Frustrated and in need of inspiration, she embarks on an unplanned journey across Japan, guided by a social media poll. The result? A cozy, visually stunning premiere that’s already drawing comparisons to Yuru Camp—and for good reason.

The Premise: A Journey Without a Map

Chika’s journey begins with a simple yet relatable premise: she’s stuck in a creative rut. Winning a Newcomer Award for manga didn’t guarantee her success, and her editor keeps rejecting her drafts. Sound familiar? It’s the classic struggle of any artist trying to find their voice. But instead of wallowing, Chika takes a leap of faith—literally. A random TV show inspires her to travel, and a social media poll decides her destination: Aizuwakamatsu in Fukushima Prefecture.

What follows is a mix of solo travel, scenic beauty, and small but meaningful discoveries. From climbing 1,225 steps at Haguro Shrine to enjoying local delicacies, Chika’s adventure feels like a love letter to Japan’s hidden gems.

What Fans Are Saying

The online buzz around Zatsu Tabi’s first episode is overwhelmingly positive, with many praising its Yuru Camp-esque vibes. Here’s what stood out to viewers:

1. “Comfy Vibes Galore”
   Fans are calling this the ultimate iyashikei (healing) anime of the season. The slow pacing, breathtaking backgrounds, and Chika’s childlike curiosity make it perfect for unwinding after a long day. One MyAnimeList user summed it up: “This is the kind of anime I like to watch when I get home from work.”

2. “Tourism Ad or Anime?”
   The show’s attention to real-life locations—like Koriyama Station and Haguro Shrine—has some joking that it’s a “tourism ad disguised as an anime.” But hey, if it inspires people to explore Japan, that’s a win.

3. “Chika’s Relatable Struggles”
   Chika’s creative burnout resonates with many. As one Redditor noted: “Her journey isn’t just about sightseeing—it’s about rediscovering her passion.” Her determination to keep improving her manga, despite setbacks, adds depth to what could’ve been a simple travelogue.

4. “The Yuru Camp Comparisons”
   The Yuru Camp parallels are inevitable, but fans are divided. Some love the similarities (“Welcome back, Yuru Camp!”), while others argue Zatsu Tabi has its own charm. One thing’s clear: if you loved Laid-Back Camp, you’ll likely enjoy this.

5. “The Animation & Soundtrack”
   Studio Makaria’s visuals are gorgeous. The backgrounds are so detailed, they almost look like real photos. The OST, though subtle, complements the serene atmosphere perfectly.

Criticisms? A Few.

Not everyone was sold on the premiere. Some criticisms include:
– “Too Slow”: A handful of viewers found the pacing “boring” and wished for more character interactions.
– “Where’s the Hook?”: One MAL user pointed out that while the episode was beautiful, it lacked a “memorable story hook.”
– “More Than Just Sightseeing?”: A few hope future episodes delve deeper into Chika’s growth as a mangaka, not just her travels.

Final Thoughts: A Promising Start

Zatsu Tabi: That’s Journey Episode 1 delivers exactly what it promises: a relaxing, visually stunning travel anime with a relatable protagonist. It’s not groundbreaking, but it doesn’t need to be. Sometimes, all we want is a cozy escape—and this show nails that.

If you’re a fan of Yuru Camp, A Place Further Than the Universe, or just love travel-themed anime, Zatsu Tabi is worth adding to your watchlist. Here’s hoping Chika’s journey keeps inspiring wanderlust—and maybe even a few real-life trips!

Rating: 8.5/10 – A comfy, wholesome debut with room to grow.

What did you think of the first episode? Let me know in the comments!