Yowamushi Pedal Kanagawa Prefecture Holy Land Pilgrimage Complete Guide｜Hakone・Enoshima Interhigh Route Thorough Explanation
A popular anime and manga “Yowamushi Pedal” featuring bicycle road racing. Kanagawa Prefecture is one of the most important holy sites as the stage for the Interhigh depicted in the story. This article thoroughly explains the holy land pilgrimage spots in Kanagawa Prefecture, from the starting point at Enoshima to the mountain stage in Hakone. We have compiled all the information that Yowamushi Pedal fans must see, including route information for visiting by cycling, access methods using public transportation, and highlights of each spot.
What is Yowamushi Pedal? Why Kanagawa Prefecture Serves as an Important Stage
“Yowamushi Pedal” is a bicycle road racing manga by Wataru Watanabe, serialized in Weekly Shonen Champion since 2008. It’s a hugely popular work that has been adapted into anime, stage productions, and live-action films, continuing to captivate many fans.
The Appeal of the Work and Kanagawa Prefecture’s Positioning
The protagonist, Sakamichi Onoda, is a boy who attends Sohoku High School in Chiba Prefecture and loves anime. Through a chance encounter, he joins the cycling club and pursues the National High School Sports Festival (Interhigh) together with his teammates. The most important episode in the story, the Interhigh, is depicted as a 3-day long-distance race starting from Enoshima in Kanagawa Prefecture and continuing to Hakone and then to the Fuji Fifth Station in Yamanashi Prefecture.
Kanagawa Prefecture is depicted in particular detail as the stage of the first day of the Interhigh, with many real locations appearing in the story, including Enoshima Bridge, National Route 1, and the mountainous area of Hakone. These places have extremely high recreation accuracy from the work and hold special meaning as “holy sites” for fans.
Overview of the Interhigh Route
The first day of the Interhigh route depicted in anime and manga starts from Enoshima and proceeds west along National Route 1, passes through Odawara, and heads into the mountainous area of Hakone. The total distance exceeds 100km, with cyclists facing various terrains ranging from flat sections to steep mountain courses.
This route is also popular among actual cyclists, and on weekends you can see many road bike enthusiasts riding. The number of fans visiting this route as a “holy site pilgrimage” influenced by Yowamushi Pedal has been increasing year by year.
Complete Guide to Major Holy Site Pilgrimage Spots in Kanagawa Prefecture
Enoshima Area｜Interhigh Starting Point
Enoshima Bridge (Enoshima Benten Bridge)
Location: Katase Kaigan, Enoshima, Fujisawa City, Kanagawa Prefecture
Access: 5 minutes walk from “Katase Enoshima Station” on the Odakyu Enoshima Line
Enoshima Bridge, depicted as the starting point of the Interhigh, is the starting point for Yowamushi Pedal holy site pilgrimage. The anime features an impressive scene with many cyclists starting simultaneously. The actual bridge is approximately 389 meters long and is a crucial transportation route connecting Enoshima to the mainland.
Highlights:
- You can see spectacular views of Sagami Bay and Mount Fuji from the bridge (weather dependent)
- Early morning and sunset hours offer particularly beautiful scenery
- Parking lots and tourist information centers are located near the bridge entrance, making it ideal for preparing for the holy site pilgrimage
Shooting Spot: Photographing from near the bridge entrance toward Enoshima gives an angle close to the anime opening scene.
Tourist Spots Around Enoshima
Combined with the holy site pilgrimage, the Enoshima area has many tourist spots. Tsurugaoka Shrine, observation lighthouse, and Iwaya Cave are among the fascinating places scattered throughout, allowing for a full day of exploration. Fresh seafood dishes and famous shirasu bowl are also available, making it recommended to combine sightseeing before and after the holy site pilgrimage.
Odawara Area｜Important Flat Section Spots
Odawara City Hall Front Intersection
Location: 1-chome, Honcho, Odawara City, Kanagawa Prefecture
Access: Approximately 10 minutes walk from Odawara Station (JR/Odakyu)
The site of an important scene where Sakamichi Onoda gets caught up in a crash. The memorable line “Aren’t you in last place right now?” makes this a spot that stays in fans’ memories.
Highlights:
- The actual intersection features a characteristic crank-shaped road structure in front of the civic hall
- The landscape remains almost the same as depicted in the manga and anime
- The surrounding area has Odawara Castle and shopping streets, making it easy to combine with tourism
Caution: As this is a place with heavy traffic, please exercise caution when taking photos or viewing. If visiting by bicycle, be sure to follow traffic rules.
Around Odawara Castle
A worthwhile stop during the holy site pilgrimage is Odawara Castle. Known as a famous castle from the Sengoku period, the observation deck offers panoramic views of Odawara city and Sagami Bay. The castle also houses a historical museum where you can learn about Odawara’s history.
Hakone Area｜Mountain Stage Holy Sites
The Hakone area is the most important area for Yowamushi Pedal holy site pilgrimage. As the mountainous area where the climax of the first day of the Interhigh unfolds, it serves as the setting for numerous memorable scenes.
Kanrei Tunnel (Kanrei Domon) Ruins
Location: Hakone Town, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa Prefecture
Access: Get off at “Kanrei Domon” bus stop on the Hakone Tozan Bus
The site of a moving scene where Yusuke Makishima encourages his teammates. A tunnel that once existed on National Route 1, now an old road with a new route opened, but its atmosphere remains.
Highlights:
- Historically valuable old road tunnel (currently passable)
- Surrounding natural scenery of Hakone
- A place that brings to mind Makishima’s memorable line “Sho!”
Access Tips: If visiting by bicycle, you’ll need to climb the steep grade of National Route 1. For those without confidence in their fitness, using the Hakone Tozan Bus is recommended.
National Route 1 Highest Point
Location: Ashino, Hakone Town, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa Prefecture
Access: A walk from “Ashino” bus stop on the Hakone Tozan Bus
The site where Yusuke Makishima and Yuuto Fujido engage in an intense mountain stage battle. Located at an elevation of 874 meters, this point is known as the highest point of National Route 1, with a memorial stone installed.
Highlights:
- “National Route 1 Highest Point” stone monument
- Majestic views of the Hakone outer rim mountains
- A steep grade that recalls the heated battles between climbers
Shooting Spot: Many fans visit to take commemorative photos with the highest point monument. On clear days, you can see far into the distance for a spectacular view.
Onshi Hakone Park (Former Hakone Imperial Villa Site)
Location: 171 Motohakone, Hakone Town, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa Prefecture
Access: Immediately below “Onshi Park Mae” bus stop on the Hakone Tozan Bus
Depicted as the goal point of the first day of the Interhigh. Located on a high plateau overlooking Lake Ashi, this is a historic park that was once used as an imperial retreat.
Highlights:
- Spectacular views of Lake Ashi and Mount Fuji (weather dependent)
- Spacious lawn grounds and Japanese garden
- Open space reminiscent of the goal scene
- Free admission for tourists
Recommended Time: Early morning is relatively uncrowded, with higher chances of enjoying the view of Lake Ashi and Mount Fuji. A place to rest and savor the sense of achievement of reaching the goal.
Hakone Shrine・Torii Gate
Location: 80-1 Motohakone, Hakone Town, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa Prefecture
Access: 10 minutes walk from “Motohakone” bus stop on the Hakone Tozan Bus
The gate in front of Fukao Soba, which appears in scenes where Yamagaku Shinami and Shunsuke Imaizumi pull for their team leader, is known as the first torii gate of Hakone Shrine. The vermillion gate standing on Lake Ashi is also a famous photography spot representing Hakone.
Highlights:
- Water-based torii gate on Lake Ashi (Peace Torii)
- Worshipping at Hakone Shrine’s main hall
- Surrounding Hakone tourist spots (Hakone Checkpoint, cedar tree avenue, etc.)
Holy Site Pilgrimage Point: The anime scenes feature a torii gate along National Route 1. Since there are multiple torii gates around Hakone Shrine, it’s good to check the positional relationships while visiting.
Hakone Kowakien Yunessun Area
Hakone Kowakien Yunessun has hosted past collaboration events such as “Yowamushi Pedal in Hakone,” making it a special place for fans. As a hot spring theme park offering a full day of enjoyment, it’s perfect for relieving the fatigue of the holy site pilgrimage.
Practical Guide to Holy Site Pilgrimage｜Access Methods and Model Routes
Holy Site Pilgrimage Using Public Transportation
For those without bicycles or lacking confidence in their fitness, holy site pilgrimage using public transportation is recommended.
Access from Shinjuku to Hakone
Odakyu Hakone Express Bus:
- Approximately 2 hours from Shinjuku to Hakone
- Fare: Around 2,000 yen one-way (varies by season)
- Reservation system for comfortable travel
- Stops at major Hakone spots
Odakyu Romance Car:
- Approximately 85 minutes from Shinjuku to Hakone Yumoto
- Around 2,500 yen including express charge
- Comfortable seats to enjoy the scenery
- Transfer to Hakone Tozan Bus from Hakone Yumoto
Moving Within the Hakone Area
Purchasing a Hakone Free Pass (valid for 2 or 3 days) makes unlimited travel on many transportation systems in the Hakone area. Hakone Tozan Bus, Hakone Tozan Railway, Hakone Ropeway, Pirate Ship, and more are included, allowing efficient touring of holy sites.
Holy Site Pilgrimage by Cycling
For those wanting to fully experience the world of Yowamushi Pedal, actual cycling holy site pilgrimage is recommended.
Recommended Model Route (1-Day Course)
Enoshima Start → Hakone Goal Route:
- Enoshima Bridge (Starting point) – Recommended departure at 7:00 AM
- National Route 134 heading west – Enjoy scenery along Sagami Bay
- Odawara City Hall Front Intersection – Crash scene location (approximately 30km point)
- National Route 1 – Start of serious climbing from here
- Kanrei Tunnel Ruins – First mountain stage point (approximately 50km point)
- National Route 1 Highest Point – Site of mountain stage battle (approximately 60km point)
- Onshi Hakone Park – Goal point (approximately 70km point)
Duration: 5-7 hours (including breaks)
Difficulty: Intermediate to advanced (Hakone climb with approximately 800m elevation gain)
Beginner-Friendly Route
For those lacking confidence in their fitness or beginners, routes touring only the Enoshima area or only the Hakone area are recommended.
Enoshima Area Route:
- Enoshima Bridge → Katase Beach → Enoshima sightseeing → Kamakura direction
- Distance: Approximately 20-30km
- Difficulty: Beginner
Hakone Area Route:
- Rent a bicycle in Hakone Yumoto to tour the Hakone old highway or around Lake Ashi
- Electric assist bicycle recommended
- Distance: Approximately 15-25km
- Difficulty: Beginner to intermediate
Rental Bicycle Information
There are many rental bicycle shops throughout Kanagawa Prefecture.
Enoshima・Shonan Area:
- Multiple rental shops around Katase Enoshima Station
- Wide selection of road bikes, cross bikes, electric bicycles, etc.
- Rates: Around 2,000-5,000 yen per day
Hakone Area:
- Rental shops available around Hakone Yumoto Station
- Electric assist bicycles are popular
- Rates: Around 2,000-3,500 yen per day
Caution: Advance reservation is essential during peak seasons (Golden Week, summer vacation, autumn foliage season). Also, wearing a helmet is strongly recommended.
Seasonal Recommendations for Visiting
Spring (March-May)
Recommended Degree: ★★★★★
- Mild climate perfect for cycling
- Cherry blossom season (late March-early April) is particularly beautiful
- Fresh greenery in Hakone with clear, refreshing air
- Golden Week is crowded; mid-April is the best timing
Summer (June-August)
Recommended Degree: ★★★☆☆
- Experience the atmosphere of the work during Interhigh season
- Enoshima area crowded with beach swimmers
- Hakone pleasant as a summer resort, but heat protection essential in flat areas
- Rainy season (June) requires rain gear preparation
Autumn (September-November)
Recommended Degree: ★★★★★
- Autumn foliage season (late October-mid-November) makes Hakone especially beautiful
- Cooler temperatures ideal for cycling
- High clear-day rate, increased chance of seeing Mount Fuji
- Hakone crowded during foliage season; early morning departure recommended
Winter (December-February)
Recommended Degree: ★★☆☆☆
- Fewer tourists allow leisurely touring of holy sites
- Clear air with beautiful Mount Fuji visibility
- Possibility of snow and ice in Hakone mountain areas
- Cold weather protection essential; cycling for advanced users only
Useful Trivia for Enjoying the Holy Site Pilgrimage More
Work Preview Points
Previewing relevant scenes before the holy site pilgrimage enhances enjoyment.
Interhigh Arc:
- Anime Season 1・2 Interhigh arc
- Original manga relevant volumes (around volumes 27-50)
- Particularly many Hakone scenes in Season 2
Important Characters and Scenes:
- Sakamichi Onoda’s catch-up after crash
- Yusuke Makishima’s “Sho!” scene
- Makishima vs. Fujido mountain stage battle
- Shinami Yamagaku’s first appearance scene
Photography Manners and Cautions
Follow the following etiquette when enjoying the holy site pilgrimage.
Strict Traffic Rule Compliance:
- National Route 1 has heavy traffic; drive safely
- Bicycles travel on the left side of the road
- Stop in safe locations for photography
Consideration for Surrounding Residents:
- Avoid loud conversations and noise
- No trespassing on private property
- Always take garbage with you
Facility Use Etiquette:
- Follow facility rules at tourist attractions
- Yield to others during crowded times
- Observe manners as a customer at commercial facilities
Recommended Gear and Equipment
For Cycling:
- Helmet (essential)
- Gloves
- Sunglasses
- Water bottles for hydration (2 or more recommended)
- Supplementary food (energy bars, gels, etc.)
- Puncture repair kit
- Smartphone holder (for navigation)
- Lights (front and rear)
For Walking・Public Transportation:
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Camera/Smartphone
- Mobile battery
- Work references (manga/anime screenshots, etc.)
- Hakone Free Pass
Collaboration with Yowamushi Pedal Holy Sites Outside Kanagawa Prefecture
After enjoying holy site pilgrimage in Kanagawa Prefecture, try visiting holy sites in other areas.
Chiba Prefecture｜Around Sohoku High School
Around Sohoku High School, which is the model in Chiba Prefecture’s Sakura City, there are many settings for the protagonists’ daily life scenes. The area around Keisei Sakura Station and Inba Swamp cycling road are known as holy sites.
Tokyo｜Akihabara
Akihabara, the “holy site” where Sakamichi Onoda goes. Various locations symbolizing Sakamichi’s hobbies, such as anime shops and maid cafes, are scattered throughout. Access from Kanagawa Prefecture is also convenient.
Shizuoka Prefecture・Yamanashi Prefecture｜Interhigh Day 2 and Beyond
The Interhigh continues from Kanagawa Prefecture into Shizuoka and Yamanashi Prefectures. Fuji Five Lakes area, Fuji Mountain Fifth Station and other important holy sites are known, with some fans taking 2-3 days to tour them in combination with the Kanagawa Prefecture pilgrimage.
Accommodations and Dining Information in Hakone
Recommended Accommodations
Hakone Yumoto Hot Spring:
- Good transportation access as Hakone’s gateway
- Diverse price range of accommodations
- Can soothe fatigue with hot springs
Around Lake Ashi:
- Convenient to goal point and holy site pilgrimage
- Can enjoy lakeside scenery
- Wide selection from luxury resorts to inns
Odawara:
- More affordable accommodations than Hakone
- Easy to combine with Odawara Castle sightseeing
- Perfect base camp to head to Hakone the next day
Local Cuisine
Hakone Specialties:
- Hakone soba (natural yam soba)
- Hot spring dumplings
- Hakone Bakery bread
- Black eggs (Owakudani specialty)
Odawara Specialties:
- Fish cake (many established shops like Suzuhiro)
- Odawara don
- Seafood dishes
Enoshima Specialties:
- Shirasu bowl
- Turban shell grilled in shell
- Enoshima beer
Summary｜Experience the World of Yowamushi Pedal in Kanagawa Prefecture
Kanagawa Prefecture is one of the most important areas for Yowamushi Pedal holy site pilgrimage. You can visit numerous real spots featured in the work, from the starting point at Enoshima to the mountain stage in Hakone.
You can enjoy the holy site pilgrimage in various styles, from tourism-style using public transportation to full-scale cycling holy site pilgrimage that actually rides a bicycle. Spring and autumn are particularly recommended seasons, but each season has its own unique charm.
Through the holy site pilgrimage, you can deepen your understanding of the work’s world and experience the road where the characters ran, making your love for Yowamushi Pedal even deeper. Enjoy the holy site pilgrimage safely while following traffic rules and etiquette.
The majestic nature of Hakone, the beautiful coast of Enoshima, and the numerous memorable scenes from the work will surely become unforgettable memories. Using this article as a reference, why not embark on your own Yowamushi Pedal holy site pilgrimage journey in Kanagawa Prefecture?
