Big Buddha Sea View & Chase Slam Dunk Scenes: A Day Trip Exploring Kamakura

By MOOK Jingjia Editorial Team
 
The ancient city of Kamakura, just an hour from Tokyo, is not only home to many temples and shrines but is also famously known as the location of classic scenes from the beloved anime Slam Dunk. Below is an introduction to Kamakura’s one-day itinerary—come stroll through Kamakura with us!

Kamakura High School Front Station (Kamakura Kōkōmae-eki)
 
The ultra-classic sports anime “Slam Dunk” is a childhood memory for those born in the '60s and '70s. Its story is set in Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture, and one of its most popular filming spots is the Kamakura Enoden train line—the level crossing where Haruko and Sakuragi Hanamichi first meet.

In the anime, Sakuragi Hanamichi stands in front of the level crossing waiting for a dark green train to pass. On the other side of the tracks, the ocean glimmers, and Haruko waves at him. It’s a nostalgic, passionate memory for many anime fans and has made the crossing Kamakura’s most famous spot.

But due to its immense popularity, every year huge crowds flock to Kamakura just to snap photos at the “Slam Dunk level crossing.” They crowd both sides of the road, leading to severe congestion. Just getting into the station can involve a wait of at least an hour, and some even trespass into nearby schools and cemeteries, causing inconvenience and distress to local residents.

Seven Riviera Beach Scenery (Seven Riviera Station)
 
As one of Japan’s “Top 100 Beaches,” Seven Riviera Beach not only offers views of the endless blue ocean but also vistas of Mount Fuji, Enoshima Island, and the Miura Peninsula. Another highlight of Seven Riviera is the world-renowned breakfast spot “Bills,” where you can enjoy a delicious meal while taking in the beautiful seaside view.