【From Up On Poppy Hill】(Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture)
“From Up On Poppy Hill,” a Studio Ghibli work released in July 2011, is a coming-of-age romance film set in Yokohama in 1963 (Showa 38). Directed by Goro Miyazaki, this work depicts the streetscapes of Yokohama during the period of rapid economic growth and the pure romance between the protagonist Umi Matsuzaki and Shun Kazama, continuing to captivate many fans even today.
This article provides detailed introductions to actual filming locations and places that served as models in the film. We present a complete guide to visiting the sacred sites of this work, which was created through a partnership with Yokohama City.
The Setting of “From Up On Poppy Hill”: Yokohama
Why 1963 Yokohama Was Chosen
1963, the year the film is set, was a time when Japan was in the midst of rapid economic growth with the Tokyo Olympics just one year away. As an international city since its opening to foreign trade, Yokohama possessed a unique atmosphere where Western and Japanese cultures were fused together in this port town.
The Yokohama of that era was characterized by the coexistence of the vigor of post-war reconstruction and the nostalgic scenery of the old, good Showa period. The film features various locations that have been carefully preserved from that time to the present, such as Western-style mansions in the Yamate district, Motomachi shopping street, and Yamashita Park.
Studio Ghibli and Yokohama City Partnership
“From Up On Poppy Hill” was officially partnered with Yokohama City, and commemorative events and exhibitions were held throughout the city at the time of release. Even now, a commemorative sign is installed in Minato no Mieru Oka Park (Harbor View Park), serving as a landmark for sacred site pilgrimages.
【Harbor View Park Area】The Stage of Poppy Hill
Highlights of Harbor View Park
The area around Harbor View Park is believed to be the model for “Poppy Hill” (Kokuriko-zaka), which is the title of the film itself. Located on a small elevated hill, this park offers a panoramic view of the Yokohama Bay Bridge, Yokohama Port, and the Minato Mirai skyline.
Within the park, a sign commemorating the film has been installed, making it a popular photography spot for film fans. Additionally, the international signal flag “U・W Flag” (wishing for safe passage and your good fortune) that Umi raises each morning is actually displayed here.
Access Information:
- 5 minutes on foot from Exit 6 of Motomachi-Chukagai Station on the Minato Mirai Line
- About 20 minutes on foot from JR Ishikawa-cho Station
- Free admission, open 24 hours
Kanagawa Modern Literature Museum and Poppy Hill
The area near the Kanagawa Modern Literature Museum, located further into Harbor View Park, is said to be the model for the “Poppy Hill” scenery depicted in the film. The view of Yokohama Port from the slope evokes a scene from the movie.
There is actually no place named “Poppy Hill” in Yokohama; it is a fictional location created for the film. However, the atmosphere and scenery of this surrounding area became important elements in shaping the work’s world.
Is the Model for Kokuriko-so Real?
The boarding house “Kokuriko-so” where Umi lives with her family is a central location in the film. It is set as a Western-style mansion on Poppy Hill, but it is said that no specific model actually exists.
However, the theory that the Old Yanashita Residence within Negishi Nostalgia Park, described later, is closest to the external appearance is the most compelling. Additionally, it is thought that the atmosphere of the Western-style mansion groups scattered throughout the Yamate district (such as the Diplomat’s Residence and Bluff No. 18) was comprehensively referenced.
【Yamate Area】A Street of Western-Style Mansions Full of Foreign Charm
Groups of Western-Style Mansions in Yamate
The Yokohama Yamate district developed as a foreign settlement after the port’s opening, and many Western architectural structures remain there today. The Western-style mansion scenery depicted in the film strongly reflects the atmosphere of this area.
Main Western-Style Mansion Facilities:
- Diplomat’s Residence (Important Cultural Property)
- Bluff No. 18
- Berrick Hall
- Erismane Residence
- Yamate No. 234
These Western-style mansions can be viewed for free and are invaluable spots where visitors can experience the lifestyle of that era. This area is ideal for strolling while immersing oneself in the film’s world.
Yamate Main Street and Stone-Paved Slopes
Yamate Main Street is a main street lined with exotic street trees and Western-style mansions. The scenes of slopes in the film are believed to be modeled after the stone-paved slopes in this area.
In particular, Yato Slope is a steep slope that continues from Motomachi shopping street to the Yamate district and still retains the atmosphere of the film.
【Motomachi Area】The Shopping Street Where Umi and Shun Walked
Motomachi Shopping Street: Then and Now
Motomachi shopping street is a representative shopping street in Yokohama with a history dating back to the port’s opening. The film features scenes where Umi and Shun walk there on a date.
Although the stores have changed compared to 1963, the basic structure and atmosphere of the shopping street remain intact. The European-style landscape created by stone-paved streets and street trees is the very world of the film.
Access:
- Right at Exit 5 of Motomachi-Chukagai Station on the Minato Mirai Line
- 5 minutes on foot from JR Ishikawa-cho Station
Film Appearance Spots Around Motomachi
The Motomachi area contains fine details from scenes appearing in the film scattered throughout. The appearance of old buildings, the scenery of back alleys, the view of the port from slopes—various places are found where one can reminisce about scenes from the film while strolling.
【Yamashita Park Area】A Symbol of Unchanging Yokohama
Highlights of Yamashita Park
Yamashita Park, where the memorable scene of Umi and Shun walking together appears, preserves an almost unchanged landscape more than 10 years after the film’s release. From this park facing Yokohama Port, one can see the Osanbashi, the Hikawa Maru, the Marine Tower, and more.
Main Highlights:
- Hikawa Maru (Important Cultural Property): A historic passenger ship that also appears in the film
- Statue of the Girl in Red Shoes
- Indian Water Tower
- Yokohama Port Scenery
The Hikawa Maru and Yokohama Port Scenery
The Hikawa Maru, moored in Yamashita Park, is a cargo-passenger ship built in 1930 and was still in service in 1963, the period setting of the film. In the film, it appears many times in port scenes and serves as an important element in creating the atmosphere of Yokohama at that time.
The Hikawa Maru is now open to the public as a museum ship, and visitors can explore its interior (admission fee). It is a precious spot where one can experience the luxurious interior of an early Showa-era passenger ship.
Hikawa Maru Viewing Information:
- Hours: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last admission 4:30 PM)
- Closed: Mondays (if a holiday, the following weekday)
- Admission: General ¥300, Seniors (65+) ¥200, Elementary/Middle/High School Students ¥100
Yokohama Marine Tower
The Yokohama Marine Tower that appears in the film opened in 1961 and is a symbol of Yokohama. At the time, it also functioned as a lighthouse. It has since undergone renovation that reopened in 2022 and is now a tourist destination with observation floors and restaurants.
【Sakuragi-cho/Kannai Area】A Transportation Hub
Around Sakuragi-cho Station
Sakuragi-cho Station, which appears in the film, was the terminal station of the Toyoko Line in 1963. The current Sakuragi-cho Station has changed dramatically, but the view of Yokohama Port from the station remains.
In the film, scenes of Umi and Shun commuting by train appear around Sakuragi-cho Station. While the station building from that era no longer exists, the terrain and distance to the port allow one to feel the atmosphere of the film.
The Toyoko Line Site and Tunnels
In 1963, the Toyoko Line operated up to Sakuragi-cho Station, and the film features scenes of tracks running under bridges and trains entering tunnels. This section is now defunct, and parts of it have been developed into promenades.
【Isogo Ward】Model Candidates for Kokuriko-so
Negishi Nostalgia Park and the Old Yanashita Residence
The Old Yanashita Residence within “Negishi Nostalgia Park” in Isogo Ward, Yokohama, is known as the building most similar to the exterior of Kokuriko-so. Built in the 1920s, this wooden Western-style mansion shares an atmosphere similar to the Kokuriko-so in the film.
Facility Information:
- Location: 5-127 Nishi-cho, Isogo Ward, Yokohama
- Access: About 15 minutes on foot from JR Negishi Station, or by bus to “Takigashira” stop
- Viewing: Exterior only (building interior is not open to the public)
- Free admission
The Old Yanashita Residence sits on elevated ground and once commanded a view of Tokyo Bay. While the sea is no longer visible due to surrounding development, the appearance of the building retains the film’s world vividly.
Negishi Forest Park Area
Near Negishi Nostalgia Park is the expansive Negishi Forest Park. Built on the site of a former racetrack, it features spacious lawns and historic structures. While not a film setting, it is recommended as a stop during sacred site pilgrimages for those wishing to feel the Showa-era atmosphere.
Fine Details Appearing in the Film
The Meaning of the International Signal Flag “U・W Flag”
The international signal flags that Umi raises every morning are a combination of two flags.
- U Flag (Uniform): “You are standing into danger” → by extension, “Wishing for safe passage”
- W Flag (Whiskey): “Medical assistance is needed” → by extension, “Wishing for your good fortune”
This flag combination expresses thoughts of her deceased father and prayers for those traveling at sea. At Harbor View Park, this flag is actually displayed and has become a popular photography spot for film fans.
Showa 38 Yokohama Trivia
The film incorporates fine descriptions symbolizing Yokohama in 1963 throughout.
- Construction boom ahead of the Tokyo Olympics
- Street railway (municipal tram) scenery
- Early modern architectural structures of the Showa period
- Period-appropriate school uniforms and lifestyle
- Nostalgic scenery of old shopping streets
These details give the film realism and nostalgia.
Recommended Sacred Site Pilgrimage Routes
Half-Day Course (About 4 hours)
- Start at Motomachi-Chukagai Station (9:00)
- Harbor View Park (9:10-10:00): Commemorative sign, signal flag, viewing spot
- Yamate Mansion Tour (10:00-11:30): Diplomat’s Residence, Bluff No. 18, etc.
- Motomachi Shopping Street Stroll (11:30-12:30): Lunch and shopping
- Yamashita Park (12:30-13:30): Hikawa Maru viewing, seaside stroll
- Around Sakuragi-cho Station (13:30-14:00): Station area scenery
Full-Day Course (About 7 hours)
In addition to the half-day course:
- Negishi Nostalgia Park (15:00-16:00): Old Yanashita Residence viewing
- Negishi Forest Park (16:00-17:00): Strolling
When using public transportation, utilizing Yokohama city buses and the Minato Mirai Line makes for efficient travel.
How to Enjoy Sacred Site Pilgrimages
Enjoying Comparisons Between Film and Reality
The pleasure of sacred site pilgrimages lies in comparing scenes from the film with actual landscapes. A popular way to enjoy this is saving scene photos from the film on a smartphone or tablet and photographing the same angles.
Seasonal Differences in Scenery
Yokohama’s streets present different faces with each season.
- Spring: Cherry blossoms on Yamate streets, roses at Harbor View Park
- Summer: Blue sea and sky, lively port scenery
- Autumn: Autumn foliage and mansion contrasts
- Winter: Illuminations, harbor views in crisp air
Though the film is a summer story, visits during any season reveal different charms.
Enjoy Yokohama Cuisine Too
Between sacred site visits, savor Yokohama’s unique cuisine.
- Motomachi: Long-established Western restaurants, cafés
- Chinatown: Authentic Chinese cuisine
- Around Yamashita Park: Seafood restaurants
- Sakuragi-cho: Minato Mirai commercial facilities
Visiting long-established restaurants that existed in the film’s era is itself part of the pilgrimage experience.
Access and Transportation Information
Access from Major Stations
From Tokyo:
- JR Tokaido/Yokosuka Line to Yokohama or Sakuragi-cho Station (approximately 30 minutes)
- Tokyu Toyoko Line/Minato Mirai Line to Motomachi-Chukagai Station (approximately 40 minutes)
From Haneda Airport:
- Keikyu Line to Yokohama Station (approximately 30 minutes)
- Limousine bus to Minato Mirai area (approximately 40 minutes)
Transportation Within the City
- Minato Mirai Line: Convenient line connecting Motomachi-Chukagai and Yokohama Stations
- City Buses: Excellent routes connecting major attractions
- Red Shoe Bus: Sightseeing bus connecting tourist sites (¥100~)
- On Foot: The Yamate-Motomachi-Yamashita Park area is within walking distance
Recommended Visiting Times
Weekdays: Relatively fewer tourists, allowing for leisurely strolling.
Weekends/Holidays: Can enjoy a lively atmosphere, but note crowds.
Times to Avoid: Golden Week, Obon, and year-end/New Year periods are extremely crowded.
Related Nearby Spots
Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse
Though not a film setting, this former warehouse from the Meiji and Taisho periods has been renovated into a shopping and dining destination. The atmosphere of the historic structure resonates with the film’s world.
Nippon Yusen Hikawa Maru・Nippon Yusen History Museum
A facility where visitors can learn the history of shipping, providing deeper understanding of the film’s historical context.
Yokohama Port Opening Museum
A museum where one can learn about Yokohama’s history in detail. It displays materials about Yokohama in 1963.
Precautions for Sacred Site Pilgrimages
Follow Etiquette and Enjoy
- Photography in residential areas: No loud voices, don’t enter private property
- Mansion viewing: Follow facility rules, confirm photography permissions
- Parks: Take trash with you, don’t damage plants
- Shopping streets: Don’t impede store operations
For Safe Strolling
- The Yamate district has many slopes; comfortable shoes are recommended
- Strong sun in summer; hats, parasols, and hydration advised
- Utilize map apps and guidebooks
- Confirm business hours and closed days in advance
Conclusion: Experiencing Yokohama’s Charm Through “From Up On Poppy Hill”
Yokohama, the setting for “From Up On Poppy Hill,” is a charming city where history and culture since its opening to foreign trade continue to thrive. Many of the landscapes appearing in the film have been carefully preserved and retain the traces of that era more than 60 years later.
By visiting actual filming locations such as Harbor View Park, Yamate mansions, Motomachi shopping street, and Yamashita Park, one can more deeply experience the film’s world. One should not miss places like the Old Yanashita Residence in Negishi Nostalgia Park, believed to be a model for the film.
Among Studio Ghibli works, “From Up On Poppy Hill,” which is set in real locations, is an ideal film for sacred site pilgrimages. Revisiting the film before visiting enhances the experience.
Yokohama, where Showa-era nostalgia and modern vitality coexist in this port town. Through sacred site pilgrimages of “From Up On Poppy Hill,” discover the multifaceted charm of this city. Walking the slopes where Umi and Shun once walked will revive the film’s emotional impact and allow you to encounter new charms of Yokohama.
