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Slam Dunk Location in Kamakura: Visit Kamakurakokomae Station
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Along the Enoden local line in Kamakura, you will find Kamakurakōkōmae Station, which appeared at the end of the hit anime Slam Dunk. Read on to learn more about this popular location.
Written by
Lives in Kanagawa Prefecture. I am a writer who pursues good old Japanese spots and things, regardless of genre. I enjoy traveling with themes such as shrines and temples, hot springs, long-established bars, and vehicles such as trains. Other than traveling, my hobbies include drinking alcohol, watching sumo, art, and reading.
Kanagawa prefecture's popular tourist spots Kamakura station and Fujisawa station are connected by the local train nicknamed the Enoden. More than just a means of transportation to Kamakura, this train takes the scenic route and runs along the coastline, and is an excellent means of reaching Enoshima.
This Crossing Appeared in Slam Dunk
A certain stop along the Enoden was first recognized by a visitor from Taiwan, and has quickly become a rather unusual yet popular sightseeing spot. This railway crossing is found at Kamakurakōkōmae Station, and was used as the model for a scene in the opening to the well-liked Japanese anime Slam Dunk. On weekends and holidays you are sure to see an endless number of people stopping here to take photos.
"Slam Dunk" was first published in the 1990s in a manga series for boys, and is the story of a high school boys' basketball team, the main character being a delinquent named Hanamichi Sakuragi. Sakuragi and his newfound love for basketball take center stage in the manga, and the uniqueness of all the characters is what drew so many fans to this series. It was later made into an anime and broadcast not only in Japan but also in Taiwan, other parts of Asia and even in Europe; it would be fair to say that it has become internationally known.
"Slam Dunk" was broadcast on TV in Japan in the 1990s. Though about 20 years have passed since its last broadcast, this stop near the station has been continuously visited by photographers ever since.
How to Get to Kamakurakōkōmae
It takes 16 minutes on the Enoden from Fujisawa station to reach Kamakurakōkōmae, and costs 260 yen. By the way, you can reach Fujisawa station on the JR Tōkaidō line from either Ueno or Tokyo station, or via Shinjuku or Ikebukuro on the Odakyū lines. Or, you can reach Kamakurakōkōmae from Kamakura station, which takes 18 minutes and also costs 260 yen.
How to Reach the Photo Spot
It is a 1-2 minute walk from Kamakurakōkōmae station to the photo spot. After passing through the ticket gates, walk straight down the road directly in front of you.
On weekends and holidays, you are sure to see a lot of people gathered here with cameras, making it an easy spot to find.
On the day we visited, there were plenty of people stopping to take pictures!
But then, just ahead you see the shot from the anime: the same sea, railway tracks, and crossing. Fans of Slam Dunk, you're sure to really start to feel excited by this sight.
Photo by Pixta
This is also a popular photo spot for train fans hoping to catch a shot of the Enoden as it runs along its coastal route, which is by itself also quite lovely. From the hill next to the tracks and crossing you can see the whole scene as it spreads out before you; this hill is also the perfect place to take photos.
At the crossing, it goes without saying that there are some people there to take pictures of the Enoden train itself too.
Though it has become a popular photography spot, the hill you are standing on is still an active road so please keep an eye out for cars and other vehicles trying to make their way through.
Top 100 Stations in Eastern Japan
Other than Slam Dunk, Kamakurakōkōmae has appeared in other anime series, and has been featured in a music video by the Japanese duet Yuzu. And, in 1997, the Japanese Ministry of Transport (now the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism), listened to the public appeal and selected Kamakurakōkōmae as one of the representative top 100 best stations for the Kanto region.
Other than this famous anime spot, the charms of the station building, the beauty of the sea, the cool sight of the Enoden as it travels by, the brilliance of the sunset... There are so many things to see and take photos of in this one place, you just might wear yourself out from the beauty of it all.
When on your way to Kamakura or Enoshima, why not take a few minutes out of your schedule to see this famous photography spot?
FAQ
Where is the famous place in Slam Dunk?
The famous place in the anime and manga series "Slam Dunk" is Kamakurakokomae Station, located near Kamakura in Kanagawa Prefecture. This notable location serves as a vital spot featured in each episode's opening sequence, adding to the storyline's charm and emphasizing its importance in the characters' basketball journey and overall development throughout "Slam Dunk." The inclusion of Kamakurakokomae Station in the anime's opening serves to capture the essence of the characters' experiences and the picturesque setting of Kamakura, enhancing the series' ambiance and nostalgia.
What to do in Kamakurakōkōmae?
Kamakurakokomae Station near Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan, serves as a gateway to exploring the historic town and its attractions. Activities include visiting iconic temples like Kotokuin and Hasedera, relaxing at Yuigahama Beach, hiking Komachi-dori Street, sampling local cuisine, and exploring lush hills. A short train ride to Enoshima Island offers scenic views while tea ceremonies and strolls through historic streets add to the cultural experience. Zeniarai Benten Shrine's unique ritual enhances the visit, providing a rich exploration of Kamakura's heritage and charm.
What is Kamakura famous for?
Kamakura, Japan, is renowned for its historical significance as the former political center during the Kamakura period, characterized by samurai influence and the first shogunate. The city boasts iconic Buddhist temples like Kotokuin with its Great Buddha statue, alongside Shinto shrines such as Tsurugaoka Hachimangu. Kamakura's coastal location adds to its charm with popular beaches like Yuigahama, while its green hills offer hiking opportunities. Local cuisine featuring seafood like shirasu don adds to the city's appeal, making it a cultural and natural haven for visitors.
How do I get to Kamakurakōkōmae station?
To reach Kamakurakōkōmae Station in Kamakura, Japan, begin by taking the JR Yokosuka Line from Tokyo Station or Shinagawa Station to Kamakura Station. Upon arrival at Kamakura Station, transfer to the Enoshima Electric Railway (Enoden) Line. Board a train heading towards Fujisawa on the Enoden Line, and disembark at Kamakurakōkōmae Station. This station is conveniently located near popular attractions like Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine and the Great Buddha, offering visitors easy access to key landmarks in Kamakura. Be sure to confirm train schedules and any transit details to ensure a smooth journey.
Why is Slam Dunk so popular in Japan?
Slam Dunk attains its widespread popularity through a combination of factors. Its success stems from its authentic portrayal of basketball, meticulously capturing the sport's intensity and teamwork. The series boasts strong character development, notably seen in protagonist Hanamichi Sakuragi's growth from a delinquent to a devoted basketball player, resonating with audiences. Combining sports drama with emotional storytelling, "Slam Dunk" explores themes of friendship, rivalry, perseverance, and personal evolution, creating a captivating and emotionally rich narrative. Furthermore, the series' impact on Japanese popular culture during its 1990s serialization, coupled with its timeless appeal and enduring influence, solidifies its status as a beloved classic in the worlds of sports manga and anime.
Can you swim at Kamakura Beach?
Kamakura has several beaches where swimming is permitted, with Yuigahama Beach being one of the most popular options for swimming. Swimmers can enjoy the waters at Yuigahama Beach during the summer months, typically from July to August, when the weather is warmer. However, it's important to be cautious and observe any posted signs or advice regarding swimming conditions, as safety measures can vary based on factors like tides and weather.
Lives in Kanagawa Prefecture. I am a writer who pursues good old Japanese spots and things, regardless of genre. I enjoy traveling with themes such as shrines and temples, hot springs, long-established bars, and vehicles such as trains. Other than traveling, my hobbies include drinking alcohol, watching sumo, art, and reading.
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