Zatsu Tabi made its debut with episode 1 on April 7, 2025, immersing viewers in the life of Chika Suzugamori, an aspiring mangaka determined to carve out her place in the competitive world of manga. Despite her passion and talent, she faces continual setbacks as her editor finds her drafts lacking an essential spark. To rekindle her creativity, Chika embarks on a journey aimed at revitalizing her artistic spirit.
This inaugural episode adeptly sets the tone for Chika’s adventure, as she boards a train bound for a picturesque town. The episode focuses on her exploration of the unfamiliar surroundings and the simple joys of travel, culminating in a rewarding challenge as she ascends 1,225 steps to a temple, symbolizing her personal growth and reflection.
Chika’s Journey: A Quest for Inspiration
The episode begins in the bustling office of Kadokawa, where Chika presents her latest manga draft to her editor. Although the work shows promise, it ultimately fails to captivate, leading to her third consecutive rejection. Frustrated yet determined, Chika reflects on her past success—having once been recognized as a promising young mangaka and awarded one million yen—but feels the pressure to produce something extraordinary.
In a bid for inspiration, she turns to her social media followers, launching a poll to decide her next travel destination. The unexpected popularity of the poll, boosted by a well-connected friend, culminates in a majority vote for an option labeled “Up.” Confused but undeterred, she sets off on her adventure.
Embracing Adventure: Chika’s Experiences
The latter half of episode 1 captures the essence of slice-of-life storytelling as Chika navigates her journey via two trains, taking in the scenic views and tourist highlights along the way. Upon arriving in her destination, she eagerly approaches a hotel to book a room without prior reservations, reminiscent of tales she’s heard in her favorite stories.
Chika indulges in soothing hot springs and local cuisine, while also reflecting on her life choices, especially after observing an older woman’s relationship with alcohol—prompting her inner dialogue about her own path. The episode reaches its peak as she tackles the daunting 1,225 steps to the temple’s summit. Exhausted but fulfilled, Chika discovers that the true reward lies not in the view but in the experience of the journey itself.
By the episode’s conclusion, Chika’s revitalized spirit is evident, rekindling her motivation to create. However, a time jump reveals her struggles persist, as another draft is rejected, signaling that her travels might not be over just yet.
Concluding Thoughts
Episode 1 of Zatsu Tabi effectively establishes Chika Suzugamori’s struggles as she seeks inspiration for her manga, while simultaneously introducing the captivating premise of her travels. Viewers can anticipate future episodes to delve deeper into her journeys and further explore the characters that support her along the way.