【SLAM DUNK】Kamakura High School Station Crossing Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture
The basketball manga “SLAM DUNK” that dominated the 1990s. The railroad crossing near Kamakura High School Station in Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture, which became the stage for its iconic scenes, is now known as a sacred pilgrimage site visited by fans from around the world. With the massive hit of the movie “THE FIRST SLAM DUNK” released in 2022, its popularity has grown even further, attracting numerous pilgrims from both domestic and international locations.
This article provides detailed explanations of all necessary information for sacred site pilgrimages, including the location of the SLAM DUNK crossing, access methods, best photography spots, visiting etiquette, and surrounding tourist attractions.
What is the SLAM DUNK Crossing? The Charm of Kamakura High School Station No. 1 Crossing
The Stage of the Anime Opening Scene
Kamakura High School Station No. 1 Crossing is a railroad crossing of the Enoshima Electric Railway (Enoden) located in Koshigoe 1-chome, Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture. This location became world-famous as the stage for the opening scene of the anime “SLAM DUNK.”
In the opening, an impressive scene is depicted where Sakuragi Hanamichi, the protagonist, waits for the Enoden to pass in front of the crossing. The Sagami Bay’s blue waters spread out in the background, and the sight of the retro Enoden train passing through has become an image etched in the memories of many fans as a symbol of youth and nostalgia.
Spectacular Views from the Crossing
The greatest charm of Kamakura High School Station No. 1 Crossing lies in its location. Beyond the crossing spreads Sagami Bay, and on clear days, you can see all the way to Enoshima and Mount Fuji. Particularly at dusk, a spectacular landscape unfolds where the sunset sinking into the sea merges with the silhouette of the Enoden, creating an almost painted scene.
This crossing, set at the intersection of National Route 134 and the road leading upward to Hisaka from the Kamakura High School Station intersection, is also known as a photo spot representing the Shonan area.
Detailed Access Methods to the Kamakura High School Station Crossing
Access by Train
When Using Enoshima Electric Railway (Enoden)
Kamakura High School Station is a station on the Enoden, located midway between Kamakura Station and Fujisawa Station.
- From Kamakura Station: Take the Enoden and arrive at Kamakura High School Station in approximately 9 minutes
- From Fujisawa Station: Take the Enoden and arrive at Kamakura High School Station in approximately 20 minutes
Kamakura High School Station is an unmanned station, with the target crossing right after you exit the ticket gate. Walking straight toward the sea side from the station building, the dead end leads to Kamakura High School Station No. 1 Crossing. It’s approximately 100 meters away, about 1-2 minutes on foot.
Access from JR Lines
When coming from the Tokyo direction:
- Approximately 1 hour by JR Yokosuka Line to Kamakura Station
- Transfer to Enoden at Kamakura Station
When coming from the Yokohama direction:
- Approximately 25 minutes by JR Yokosuka Line to Kamakura Station
- Transfer to Enoden at Kamakura Station
Car Access and Parking Information
How to Get There by Car
- Approximately 20 minutes via National Route 134 from “Asahina IC” on the Yokohama-Yokosuka Expressway
- Approximately 50 minutes via National Route 134 from “Atsugi IC” on the Tomei Expressway
About Parking
There are almost no dedicated parking lots around Kamakura High School Station. The few nearby coin parking spaces are limited, and especially on weekends and during tourist seasons, they often reach capacity, making the use of public transportation strongly recommended.
If you must visit by car, it is more reliable to park at large parking lots around Enoshima or Kamakura Station and travel by Enoden.
Also Accessible on Foot from Shichigahama Station
It is also possible to access the site on foot in approximately 10 minutes from Shichigahama Station, the adjacent station to Kamakura High School Station. Since popular cafes mentioned later are located around Shichigahama Station, it is also recommended to visit while exploring the surrounding area.
Best Photography Spots and Photography Tips for Perfect Photos
Recommended Photography Points
① Sea Side of the Crossing (Standard Angle)
The most popular position is shooting from the sea side of the crossing toward the station. From this angle, you can capture the same composition as the anime opening scene, with the passage of the Enoden and the sea landscape together.
② Station Side of the Crossing
Conversely, shooting from the station side toward the sea allows you to capture a photo with Sagami Bay and Enoshima in the background. This is also an extremely popular angle.
③ Sidewalk Next to the Crossing
An angle capturing the crossing diagonally is also popular. You can fit the Enoden, crossing, and sea in a single photograph.
Best Timing for Photography
Time of Day
- Early Morning (6:00-8:00): Few people around, and beautiful landscapes illuminated by morning sunlight can be captured
- Evening (16:00-18:00): Sunset and the silhouette of the Enoden create mystical photos
- Weekday Mornings (8:00-11:00): Relatively less crowded, allowing leisurely photography
Season
- Spring: The cherry blossom season enhances the surrounding scenery, allowing fresh photos
- Summer: The contrast between the blue sky and sea is at its best
- Autumn: Clear air increases the probability of seeing Mount Fuji
- Winter: Clear air allows for crisp photography
Enoden Operating Interval
The Enoden operates at approximately 12-minute intervals. If you wish to photograph the moment the Enoden passes, it is efficient to check the arrival time of the next train at the station platform before moving to the photography spot.
Photography Precautions
- Do Not Enter the Railroad Tracks: This is extremely dangerous. Absolutely avoid this
- Do Not Go Into the Road: National Route 134 has heavy traffic and is dangerous
- Minimize Tripod Use: During crowded times, it inconveniences other tourists
- Avoid Occupying Space for Long Periods: Many people are waiting to photograph, so practice the spirit of sharing
Etiquette to Follow During Visits and Current Congestion Status
Serious Manners Problems That Developed
After the release of the movie “THE FIRST SLAM DUNK,” the area around Kamakura High School Station crossing became crowded with visitors from around the world, causing various manners issues.
Main Problems:
- Trespassing on railroad tracks
- Running into roadways
- Loud noise
- Littering
- Impact on nearby residents’ lives
- Traffic congestion
Due to these problems, the friction between the area and residents became severe and was widely covered in the news.
Manners Improvement Efforts
Since 2023, Kamakura City, Enoshima Electric Railway, local residents, police, and others have been working together to improve manners.
Specific Efforts:
- Installation of multilingual warning signs
- Stationing of security guards (during congestion)
- Manners awareness activities on SNS
- Information provision at tourism information centers
Through these efforts, as of 2024, manners have improved significantly, and the area is regaining its charm as a “top-class photo spot.”
Rules Visitors Must Follow
Rules That Must Be Followed:
- Do Not Trespass on Railroad Tracks: When the crossing gates are down, absolutely do not cross
- Do Not Enter the Roadway: Be careful not to venture into the road while absorbed in photography
- Do Not Raise Your Voice: Remember this is a residential area
- Always Take Your Trash With You: There are almost no trash bins in the surrounding area
- Avoid Occupying the Space for Long Periods: Be considerate of other tourists
- Do Not Trespass on Private Property: Areas other than photography spots are residential areas
- Avoid Nighttime Visits: This disturbs residents
Current Congestion Status
Congested Times:
- Weekends from 10:00-16:00
- Holidays
- Spring break, Golden Week, summer vacation, year-end/New Year holidays, and other tourist seasons
Relatively Uncrowded Times:
- Weekday early mornings (6:00-8:00)
- Weekday mornings (8:00-11:00)
- Rainy days
To avoid crowds, early morning visits on weekdays are recommended. Particularly in summer, photographs can be taken around 6 AM with sufficient daylight.
Recommended Tourist Spots and Cuisine in the Surrounding Area
bills Shichigahama
“bills Shichigahama,” a popular cafe located just 2 minutes on foot from Shichigahama Station (1 stop by Enoden from Kamakura High School Station), is a must-visit spot when visiting the SLAM DUNK crossing.
Recommended Menu Items:
- Ricotta Pancakes – Fresh Banana, Honeycomb Butter (2,000 yen): bills’ signature menu item, famous as the world’s best breakfast
- Scrambled Eggs: Fluffily textured and exquisite
- Organic Coffee: Coffee made with careful attention to detail for a moment of rest
The interior features full-length glass, allowing you to enjoy meals while gazing at the expansive Shonan sea. The terrace seating in particular offers an open, spacious feeling, and dining while feeling the sea breeze is exceptional.
Business Information:
- Hours: 8:30-17:00 (Last order 16:00)
- Closed: Irregular
- Reservations: Not accepted (First come, first served)
On weekends and holidays, lines often form before opening, so visiting early is recommended.
Shichigahama Beach
Shichigahama Beach, which spreads out in front of bills Shichigahama, is a beautiful beach representing Shonan. A sandy shore stretching approximately 4 kilometers is bustling with people enjoying walks and surfing.
At dusk, you can witness the spectacular sight of Mount Fuji and Enoshima’s silhouettes bathed in the sunset. Combined with the SLAM DUNK crossing, this is a spot where you can fully enjoy Shonan’s sea.
Enoshima
Enoshima, approximately 10 minutes by Enoden from Kamakura High School Station, is a standard spot for Shonan tourism.
Main Attractions:
- Enoshima Shrine: A power spot for matchmaking
- Enoshima Sea Candle (Observation Lighthouse): 360-degree panoramic views
- Enoshima Iwaya: Mysterious sea caves
- New Enoshima Aquarium: Recommended for families
At Enoshima, you can also enjoy Shonan cuisine including fresh seafood and shirasu rice bowls.
Kamakura Great Buddha (Kotoku-in Temple)
The Kamakura Great Buddha, approximately 15 minutes by bus from Kamakura Station, is a bronze statue of Amitabha Nyorai standing at a height of 11.3 meters, designated as a National Treasure.
An iconic symbol of Kamakura tourism, you can also enter inside the Great Buddha (additional 20 yen). With many nearby attractions such as Hase-dera Temple, this is an area where you can experience Kamakura’s history and culture.
Kamakura Komachi Street
“Komachi Street,” a shopping district approximately 360 meters long running from Kamakura Station’s East Exit to Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gu Shrine, is a popular spot for Kamakura souvenirs and street food.
Popular Cuisine:
- Kamakura croquettes
- Kamakura vegetable smoothies
- Shirasu crackers
- Matcha sweets
With approximately 250 shops lining the street, it’s also ideal for souvenir shopping.
Other Sacred Sites in SLAM DUNK
In addition to the Kamakura High School Station crossing, there are several locations throughout the Shonan area with ties to SLAM DUNK.
Shonan Kaigan Park
This location is said to be the model for the scene where Sakuragi Hanamichi practices basketball with Haruko. Basketball courts are located by the sea, and you can actually enjoy basketball here.
Koshigoe Fishing Port
Near Koshigoe Station on the Enoden, this fishing port is said to be the model for seaside scenes appearing in the work. A peaceful fishing port landscape spreads out, and you can also purchase fresh seafood.
Kamakura High School
The actual Kanagawa Prefectural Kamakura High School is said to be the model for the “Shohoku High School” that appears in the work. However, since this is an actual school facility, refraining from trespassing on school grounds or photography is important. It is best to view the exterior from a distance.
Model of Ryonan High School
Rival school “Ryonan High School” is said to be modeled after Kanagawa Prefectural Shichigahama High School. Since this is also an actual school, visitors should keep in mind to be respectful.
Model Course for SLAM DUNK Crossing Visit
Half-Day Course (Morning Departure)
9:00 Arrival at Kamakura Station
↓ Travel by Enoden (approximately 9 minutes)
9:15 Arrival at Kamakura High School Station, photograph at crossing (1 hour)
↓ Travel by Enoden (1 stop)
10:30 Arrival at Shichigahama Station, breakfast at bills Shichigahama
↓ Walking
12:00 Explore Shichigahama Beach
↓ Travel by Enoden
13:00 Enoshima sightseeing
15:00 Return trip
Full Day Course
8:00 Arrival at Kamakura Station
8:30 Visit Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gu Shrine
9:30 Street food at Komachi Street
11:00 View Kamakura Great Buddha
↓ Travel by bus/Enoden
13:00 Photograph at Kamakura High School Station crossing
14:00 Lunch at bills Shichigahama
15:30 Explore Shichigahama Beach
16:30 Enoshima sightseeing
18:00 Watch sunset at Enoshima
19:00 Return trip
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Can you visit the Kamakura High School Station crossing 24 hours a day?
A1. While physically accessible 24 hours a day, the surrounding area is residential, so nighttime visits cause inconvenience to nearby residents. It is recommended to limit visits to daytime hours (approximately 6:00-18:00). Additionally, the Enoden’s first train departs around 5:30 AM, with the last train around 11:30 PM.
Q2. Is it worth visiting on rainy days?
A2. Rainy days have the advantage of fewer crowds, allowing leisurely photography. Additionally, rain-soaked crossings and misty seas have a unique atmosphere, allowing for impressive photos different from clear days. However, caution is needed as the ground becomes slippery.
Q3. Is the Enoden one-day pass a good deal?
A3. The Enoden’s one-day pass “Noriori-kun” costs 800 yen and allows unlimited boarding between Kamakura and Fujisawa. Since normal one-way fares range from 220-310 yen, it’s a good deal if you ride three or more times. It’s recommended when combining with sightseeing in the surrounding area.
Q4. I’ve heard there are many foreign tourists, but is English spoken?
A4. English-speaking staff are limited around Kamakura High School Station, but multilingual support is progressing at major tourist spots. Additionally, smartphone translation apps are sufficient for communication. Surrounding signage and manners awareness displays have been translated into multiple languages.
Q5. Can you enjoy it in winter?
A5. Winter offers clear air, increasing the chances of seeing Mount Fuji. Additionally, there are fewer tourists compared to summer, allowing leisurely photography. With proper cold-weather preparation, you can enjoy winter’s unique beautiful scenery.
Q6. Can wheelchair users access the site?
A6. Kamakura High School Station is an unmanned station with limited barrier-free accommodations. The station lacks an elevator with stairs present. However, if you arrive by car to the National Route 134 vicinity, the area around the crossing is flat terrain, making it accessible to wheelchair users to reach the photography spot.
Q7. Is drone photography possible?
A7. Drone flight regulations are strict within Kamakura City. Drone flight near densely populated areas and around railroad facilities is regulated under aviation law, making it illegal to fly without permission. Those wishing to conduct drone photography must obtain necessary permits in advance.
Practical Information to Know Before Visiting
Packing Checklist
- Camera/Smartphone: Don’t forget to charge
- Backup Battery/Mobile Battery: Needed for extensive photography
- Sunscreen: Strong sunlight along the coast
- Hat/Sunglasses: Essential, especially in summer
- Beverages: Few vending machines nearby
- Trash Bag: Always take trash with you
- Comfortable Walking Shoes: For exploring the surrounding area
Nearby Restroom Information
- Kamakura High School Station: No restrooms at the station
- Shichigahama Station: Restrooms available
- bills Shichigahama: Restrooms available for customers
- Shichigahama Beach: Public restrooms available (May only be open in summer)
It is recommended to use restrooms before visiting.
Wi-Fi Environment
There are almost no public Wi-Fi services in the area around Kamakura High School Station. Considering SNS posting and map app usage, it is recommended to prepare mobile data service.
Emergency Contact Numbers
- Kamakura Tourism Association: 0467-23-3050
- Enoshima Electric Railway Customer Center: 0466-24-2713
- Kamakura Police Station: 0467-23-0110
- Emergency/Fire: 119
Conclusion: Fully Enjoying the Sacred Site of SLAM DUNK
The railroad crossing at Kamakura High School Station in Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture, is a special place for “SLAM DUNK” fans. The experience of standing where Sakuragi Hanamichi stood in the anime opening scene and waiting for the Enoden to pass moves the hearts of many people across generations.
The beautiful Shonan sea, the retro Enoden, and memories of SLAM DUNK intersect at this place, truly deserving the title of “sacred site.” However, due to its popularity, congestion and manners issues have emerged.
When visiting, remember to be considerate of local residents, pay attention to safety, and show respect to fellow tourists. By each person following proper etiquette, this wonderful place can be preserved for future generations.
The surrounding area is abundant with attractive tourist spots, including bills Shichigahama, Enoshima, and Kamakura’s historically significant landmarks. Starting with a visit to the SLAM DUNK crossing, make the most of the charm the Shonan and Kamakura areas have to offer.
If this article helps make your SLAM DUNK sacred site pilgrimage an unforgettable, wonderful experience, we are delighted. At the stage of this masterpiece, which recorded a page of youth, create your own special memories.
