Key Points
- Perfect for: Anime fans, otaku travelers
- Duration: 1-2 days
- Budget: ¥5,000-10,000
- Best season: Year-round
- Focus: Anime locations, sacred sites
Overview
Kanagawa Prefecture has served as the setting for numerous popular anime series and films. This guide covers the best anime pilgrimage spots, from real-life locations featured in famous series to anime-themed attractions.
Top Anime Pilgrimage Spots
1. Kamakura (Slam Dunk)
Budget: Free (location viewing) Duration: 2-3 hours Anime: Slam Dunk The iconic railroad crossing from Slam Dunk's opening sequence is located at Kamakurakokomae Station. This is one of Japan's most famous anime pilgrimage spots.
Location Details:
- Station: Kamakurakokomae Station (Enoden Line)
- Spot: Railroad crossing near the station
- Best Time: Early morning (fewer crowds)
- Photo Tips: From the platform, capture the crossing Nearby Spots:
- Shichirigahama Beach (featured in episodes)
- Kamakura High School area
- Yuigahama Beach scenes
Visitor Tips:
- Respect local residents
- Don't block traffic
- Visit early morning or late afternoon
- Combine with Kamakura temple visits
2. Enoshima (Tari Tari, Aquarion)
Budget: Free-¥1,000 Duration: 2-3 hours Anime: Tari Tari, Aquarion Enoshima Island has been featured in multiple anime series, with recognizable locations throughout the island.
Location Details:
- Enoshima Shrine: Featured in Tari Tari
- Sea Candle: Observatory scenes
- Beach areas: Multiple anime settings
- Shopping street: Daily life scenes Photo Opportunities:
- Shrine approach stairs
- Ocean view points
- Sunset locations
- Shopping street scenes
3. Yokohama (Various Anime)
Budget: Free-¥2,000 Duration: 3-4 hours Anime: Multiple series Yokohama's futuristic Minato Mirai district and historic areas have appeared in numerous anime productions.
Featured Locations:
- Minato Mirai 21: Futuristic cityscapes
- Red Brick Warehouse: Historic settings
- Yokohama Station: Urban scenes
- Chinatown: Cultural backgrounds Anime Connections:
- Durarara!! (urban settings)
- Baccano! (historical Yokohama)
- Various mecha anime (futuristic cityscapes)
4. Hakone (Evangelion, Various)
Budget: Free-¥3,000 Duration: 3-4 hours Anime: Neon Genesis Evangelion, others Hakone's dramatic mountain scenery and Lake Ashi have inspired numerous anime backgrounds and settings.
Featured Locations:
- Lake Ashi: Evangelion settings
- Owakudani: Volcanic valley scenes
- Hakone Shrine: Traditional architecture
- Mountain roads: Scenic routes
Photo Tips:
- Lake Ashi with Mount Fuji
- Hakone Shrine torii gate
- Owakudani volcanic valley
- Ropeway views
Anime-Themed Attractions
1. Cup Noodles Museum (Yokohama)
Budget: Free entry, ¥500 activities Duration: 1-2 hours While not anime-specific, this museum appeals to anime fans interested in Japanese pop culture and food history. Highlights:
- Instant ramen history
- Custom cup noodle creation
- Photo opportunities
- Anime-style exhibits
2. Yokohama Anime Stores
Budget: ¥2,000-5,000 (shopping) Duration: 1-2 hours Several anime goods stores in Yokohama offer exclusive Kanagawa-themed merchandise. Store Locations:
- Yokohama Station area: Multiple anime shops
- Minato Mirai: Character goods
- Chinatown: Unique anime-Chinese crossover items Must-Buy Items:
- Kanagawa anime postcards
- Location-specific keychains
- Exclusive collaboration goods
- Limited edition items
Anime Pilgrimage Routes
Route 1: Kamakura Anime Day
Budget: ¥3,000-5,000 Duration: Full day Morning:
- Kamakurakokomae Station (Slam Dunk crossing)
- Shichirigahama Beach (anime scenes) Lunch:
- Kamakura Komachi-dori (¥1,000-1,500) Afternoon:
- Enoshima Island (Tari Tari locations)
- Enoshima Shrine
- Sea Candle observatory Evening:
- Sunset at Enoshima
- Return via Enoden Line (scenic anime route)
Route 2: Yokohama Anime Day
Budget: ¥4,000-6,000 Duration: Full day Morning:
- Minato Mirai 21 (futuristic anime settings)
- Cup Noodles Museum Lunch:
- Yokohama Chinatown (¥1,500-2,000) Afternoon:
- Red Brick Warehouse (anime backgrounds)
- Yokohama Station area (anime shops) Evening:
- Night view from Landmark Tower
- Anime shopping at Yokohama stores
Budget Guide
Budget Pilgrimage (¥3,000-5,000)
- Transport: ¥1,500-2,000
- Food: ¥1,500-2,000
- Attractions: Free-¥1,000
- Total: ¥3,000-5,000
Mid-Range Pilgrimage (¥6,000-10,000)
- Transport: ¥2,000-3,000
- Food: ¥2,500-3,500
- Attractions: ¥1,500-3,500
- Total: ¥6,000-10,000
Premium Pilgrimage (¥12,000+)
- Transport: ¥3,000-4,000
- Food: ¥4,000-5,000
- Attractions: ¥5,000+
- Shopping: ¥3,000+
- Total: ¥12,000+
Photography Tips
Cherry Blossom Spots:
- Tsurugaoka Hachimangu (Kamakura)
- Yamashita Park (Yokohama)
- Hakone Gora Park (mountain views)
- Komachi-dori Street (traditional atmosphere)
Evening Views:
- Minato Mirai illumination
- Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse
- Hakone onsen town lights
- Kamakura temple illuminations
Camera Settings
Smartphone Tips:
- Use HDR mode for landscapes
- Grid lines for composition
- Tap to focus on subjects
- Edit with free apps (Snapseed, VSCO)
DSLR/Mirrorless:
- Wide lens for landscapes (16-35mm)
- Portrait lens for people (50-85mm)
- Tripod for low light
- Polarizing filter for water/sky
Hidden Gems
Local Favorites
Secret Beaches:
- Shichirigahama (less crowded than Yuigahama)
- Isshiki Beach (Hayama, local favorite)
- Morito Beach (Zushi, quiet) Quiet Temples:
- Hokokuji Temple (bamboo grove, Kamakura)
- Jufukuji Temple (hidden, Kamakura)
- Myohonji Temple (peaceful, Kamakura) Local Cafes:
- Cafe Rhine (Hayama, ocean views)
- Bill's Shonan (famous pancakes)
- Cafe La Mer (Zushi, beachfront)
Seasonal Secrets
Spring:
- Cherry blossoms at lesser-known temples
- Avoid Golden Week (late April-early May)
- Book accommodations 3 months ahead Summer:
- Early morning beach visits (before 9 AM)
- Evening fireworks festivals
- Indoor museums for hot afternoons Autumn:
- Fall foliage at Hakone (mid-November)
- Harvest festivals at local shrines
- Best photography light in October Winter:
- Clear Mount Fuji views (January-February)
- Onsen with snow views
- Fewer crowds, better prices
Pro Tips from Locals
Money-Saving Secrets
- Supermarket discounts: 7-8 PM, 20-30% off bento
- Convenience store coffee: ¥100 vs cafe ¥400
- Free walking tours: Yokohama, Kamakura (tip-based)
- Museum discounts: First Sunday of month (many free)
- Train passes: Purchase online for 10% discount
Time-Saving Secrets
- Luggage forwarding: Send bags from Tokyo hotels (¥2,000)
- Early temple visits: 8 AM opening, no crowds
- Restaurant reservations: Book 1-2 days ahead
- Offline maps: Download before arriving
- IC cards: Suica/Pasmo for all transport
Safety Secrets
- Emergency numbers: 110 (police), 119 (ambulance)
- Hotel business cards: Carry for taxi returns
- Cash backup: Keep ¥10,000 emergency cash
- Translation apps: Google Translate works well
- Tourist info centers: Free maps, advice, Wi-Fi
Local Insider Tips
Best Times to Visit
Early Morning (6-8 AM):
- Fewer crowds at popular locations
- Best photography light (golden hour)
- Cooler temperatures during summer months
- Peaceful atmosphere for relaxation
- Local residents' favorite time
Late Afternoon (4-6 PM):
- Golden hour for stunning photography
- Sunset views over ocean and mountains
- Romantic atmosphere for couples
- Cooler temperatures after hot days
- Evening illumination begins
Weekdays vs Weekends:
- 30-50% fewer crowds on weekdays
- Better photo opportunities without crowds
- More relaxed pace at temples and museums
- Easier restaurant reservations
- Lower accommodation prices
Money-Saving Strategies
Transportation:
- Purchase day passes for unlimited travel
- Use IC cards (Suica/Pasmo) for small discounts
- Walk between nearby attractions (free, healthy)
- Avoid taxis (extremely expensive in Japan)
- Rent bicycles for local exploration
Food:
- Supermarket bento after 7 PM (20-30% discounts)
- Convenience store coffee (¥100 vs cafe ¥400)
- Lunch specials at restaurants (30% cheaper than dinner)
- Local markets for fresh, affordable seafood
- Standing soba shops for quick, cheap meals
Attractions:
- First Sunday of month: Many museums free
- Temple grounds often free to enter
- Parks and beaches completely free
- Combination tickets for multiple attractions
- Student discounts with valid ID
Top Photo Locations:
- Enoshima Sea Candle for 360-degree panoramic views
- Yuigahama Beach for ocean sunset photography
- Lake Ashi with Mount Fuji backdrop (winter clearest)
- Kamakura Great Buddha for iconic shots
- Yokohama Minato Mirai for night cityscapes
Seasonal Photography:
- Spring: Cherry blossoms at temples (late March-early April)
- Summer: Beach scenes, fireworks festivals
- Autumn: Fall foliage at Hakone (mid-November peak)
- Winter: Clear Mount Fuji views, illuminations
Hidden Gems Only Locals Know
Secret Spots
Quiet Beaches:
- Shichirigahama (less crowded than Yuigahama)
- Isshiki Beach in Hayama (local favorite)
- Morito Beach in Zushi (peaceful, clean)
Hidden Temples:
- Hokokuji Temple bamboo grove (early morning best)
- Jufukuji Temple (hidden, rarely visited)
- Myohonji Temple (peaceful garden, few tourists)
Local Cafes:
- Cafe Rhine in Hayama (ocean views, local art)
- Bill's Shonan (famous soufflé pancakes)
- Cafe La Mer in Zushi (beachfront, sunset views)
Essential Planning Checklist
Before You Go
Book in Advance:
- Accommodations (especially weekends, holidays)
- Popular restaurants (1-2 days ahead)
- Activity tours (onzen, cycling, cooking)
- Transport passes (online discounts)
Pack Smart:
- Comfortable walking shoes (essential)
- Weather-appropriate clothing layers
- Portable phone charger (long days out)
- Cash (many places cash-only)
- IC card (Suica/Pasmo for transport)
Download Apps:
- Google Maps (offline maps available)
- Google Translate (camera translation)
- Japan Travel by Navitime (route planning)
- Gurunavi (restaurant discounts)
- Hyperdia (train schedules)
Daily Planning
Morning Routine:
- Check weather forecast
- Confirm transport schedules
- Reserve lunch spots if needed
- Charge camera and phone
- Pack water and snacks
Evening Routine:
- Review next day's itinerary
- Charge all devices overnight
- Confirm restaurant reservations
- Check transport for morning
- Organize day's photos
Emergency Preparedness
Important Numbers:
- Police: 110
- Ambulance/Fire: 119
- Coast Guard: 118
- Tourist Info: Use the official Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) website for current visitor support options.
Emergency Kit:
- Hotel business card (for taxi returns)
- Emergency cash (¥10,000 minimum)
- Basic first aid supplies
- Portable phone charger
- Copy of passport and insurance
Kanagawa offers world-class anime pilgrimage experiences, from the iconic Slam Dunk crossing in Kamakura to the futuristic cityscapes of Yokohama. Whether you're a hardcore anime fan or simply interested in pop culture tourism, these locations provide unique insights into the real-world settings that inspired your favorite anime. For more Kanagawa guides, explore our other articles on Hakone, Kamakura, Yokohama, and the Miura Peninsula.
Related Articles:
⏰ Best Time to Visit
Early morning (8-10 AM): Peaceful atmosphere, fewer crowds, perfect for photos Late afternoon (4-6 PM): beautiful lighting, local life, less crowded than midday
What I Recommend
- Don't rush: Take your time to explore the side streets and hidden spots
- Talk to locals: They often know the best hidden gems that aren't in guidebooks
- Try the local specialties: Each area has its own unique food and souvenirs
Things to Watch Out For
- Some shops close on weekdays or have irregular hours
- Parking can be challenging during peak seasons
- Cash is still king at many smaller establishments
Yokohama Area
| Restaurant | Type | Official Website | Hours | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ringer Hat Yokohama | Ramen | 🔗 Official Website | 11:00-23:00 | ¥800-1,500 |
| Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Cafes | Cafe | 🔗 Official Website | 10:00-20:00 | ¥1,000-2,000 |
Ringer Hat Yokohama
- 🏷️ Type: Ramen
- 🌐 Official Website: https://www.ringerhut.jp/
- 📞 Phone: +81-45-XXX-XXXX
- ⏰ Hours: 11:00-23:00
- 💰 Price: ¥800-1,500
- 📍 Area: Yokohama Station
- 📅 Reservation: Book a Table (recommended for weekends)
Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Cafes
- 🏷️ Type: Cafe
- 🌐 Official Website: https://www.redbrick.or.jp/
- 📞 Phone: +81-Use the official Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) website for current visitor support options.
- ⏰ Hours: 10:00-20:00
- 💰 Price: ¥1,000-2,000
- 📍 Area: Minato Mirai
- 📅 Reservation: Book a Table (recommended for weekends)
Best Times to Visit
- Lunch: 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM (busiest, make reservations)
- Cafe: 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM (relaxed atmosphere)
- Dinner: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM (popular spots fill up quickly)
Payment Methods
- Credit Cards: Widely accepted at major restaurants
- Cash: Still preferred at smaller establishments and ramen shops
- IC Cards (Suica/Pasmo): Accepted at chain restaurants and cafes
Dietary Requirements
- Vegetarian options: Limited but available at larger restaurants
- Halal: Very limited, check in advance
- Allergies: Most restaurants can accommodate with advance notice
Useful Apps
- Tabelog: Japan's largest restaurant review site (English available)
- Google Maps: Check reviews and hours
- Omakase: Restaurant reservations
Conclusion
kanagawa anime fans pilgrimage offers a unique window into the diverse attractions of Kanagawa Prefecture. Whether you're drawn by history, nature, cuisine, or culture, this destination promises an authentic Japanese experience that will stay with you long after you've returned home.
