【Seishun Buta Yarō】 Fujisawa City, Kanagawa Prefecture
Introduction: The Deep Connection Between “Seishun Buta Yarō” and Fujisawa City
“Seishun Buta Yarō wa Bunny Girl Senpai no Yume wo Minai” (commonly known as “Aobuta”) is a youth fantasy work adapted into an anime in 2018, based on a light novel by Kamoshida Hajime. The story of high school students caught up in the mysterious phenomenon known as Adolescence Syndrome captured the hearts of many fans.
One of the major attractions of this work is the beautiful landscape of the Shonan area centered around Fujisawa City, Kanagawa Prefecture. The series features numerous real locations that have become popular “sacred site pilgrimage” spots for fans. This article provides a detailed introduction to the charm of Fujisawa City, which served as the stage for Aobuta, and specific sacred sites.
Fujisawa City, Kanagawa Prefecture
Basic Information About Fujisawa City
Fujisawa City, Kanagawa Prefecture, is a core city with approximately 440,000 residents facing Sagami Bay. Located approximately 50 km from central Tokyo and approximately 20 km from Yokohama City, it is known as a charming city where urban functions and natural environments coexist in harmony.
Characteristics of Fujisawa City:
- Central city of the Shonan coast
- Home to Enoshima, a famous tourist attraction
- Excellent transportation networks including the Odakyu Enoshima Line, JR Tokaido Line, and Enoden
- A mecca for surfing and marine sports
- Warm climate and beautiful coastline
Why Aobuta Was Set in This Location
Original author Kamoshida Hajime had connections to the Fujisawa area, which led to this region being chosen as the setting for the work. The open atmosphere of Shonan and the coexistence of urban and natural environments made it ideal as the stage for a youth story.
The expansive seascape serves as an important element reflecting the emotions of the characters, and the real landscapes of Fujisawa City add depth to the work.
Aobuta Sacred Site Pilgrimage: Major Spots in Fujisawa City
Enoshima
Overview of Enoshima
Enoshima is a representative tourist attraction of Fujisawa City and one of the important stages in Aobuta. It is a small island floating in Sagami Bay, connected to the mainland by the Enoshima Benten Bridge (or Enoshima Ohashi Bridge).
Things to See at Enoshima:
- Enoshima Shrine (Hetsumiya, Chutsumiya, Okutsutsumiya)
- Enoshima Sea Candle (observation lighthouse)
- Enoshima Samuel Cocking Garden
- Chigo ga Fuchi
- Iwaya Cave
Appearances in the Work
Enoshima appears in impressive scenes, including a date between the protagonist Azusawa Sakuta and his senior, heroine Sakurajima Mai. Particularly, the view from Enoshima Ohashi, the stone stairs within the island, and the scenery from the observation deck are depicted faithfully to reality.
The sunset view from Enoshima Sea Candle is beautifully portrayed in the work and is a must-visit spot for sacred site pilgrimages.
Access Information
- Odakyu Enoshima Line: About 10 minutes on foot from Katase Enoshima Station
- Enoden: About 15 minutes on foot from Enoshima Station
- Shonan Monorail: About 15 minutes on foot from Shonan Enoshima Station
Shichiri ga Hama
Charm of Shichiri ga Hama
Shichiri ga Hama is a beautiful coastline spanning Kamakura City and Fujisawa City, appearing in particularly impressive scenes in Aobuta. It features approximately 4 km of sandy beach and spectacular views of Enoshima and Mount Fuji.
Characteristics of Shichiri ga Hama:
- A mecca for surfing
- Famous for sunsets
- Fashionable cafes and restaurants scattered throughout
- Enoden train running along the coastline
Importance in the Work
Shichiri ga Hama’s coastline appears in important scenes where Sakuta and Mai connect emotionally. In particular, scenes of them walking along the coastline and scenes with the Enoden and seascape in the background have become popular photo spots among fans.
Points to Note When Visiting
When visiting Shichiri ga Hama, it is recommended to get off at Shichiri ga Hama Station on the Enoden. The beach is just a short walk from the station, and along Route 134, there are many cafes where you can relax while enjoying the ocean view.
Around Kamakura High School Station
Enoden Kamakura High School Station
Kamakura High School Station is one of the stops on the Enoden, known as the station closest to the ocean. Scenes with the Enoden appear frequently in Aobuta, and this station area is also depicted in the work.
Characteristics of Kamakura High School Station:
- Spectacular view of Sagami Bay spreading out directly ahead
- Scenic views of the ocean and Enoden from the crossing
- Also famous as a sacred site for “SLAM DUNK”
Notes on Photography
The area around Kamakura High School Station is a popular tourist spot, and the crossing area in particular is crowded. Keep the following points in mind when photographing:
- Be considerate not to obstruct traffic
- Never enter the tracks—it is strictly prohibited
- Respect that this is a residential area for local residents
- Early morning or weekday visits are recommended
Around Fujisawa Station
Role of Fujisawa Station
Fujisawa Station is a major station served by the Odakyu Enoshima Line and JR Tokaido Line, appearing in daily scenes throughout the work. It is also depicted as a commuting route to the school attended by the protagonists.
Things to See Around Fujisawa Station:
- Station-front commercial facilities
- Fujisawa Citizens’ Hall
- Yugyoji Temple (the head temple of Jishu School)
- Shirohata Shrine
Experiencing Daily Life
The charm of Aobuta lies in the contrast between the extraordinary “Adolescence Syndrome” and daily life. The ordinary scenery around Fujisawa Station serves as an important stage in coloring the everyday portions of the story.
Part of the fun of sacred site pilgrimage is searching for family restaurants, convenience stores, and other locations around the station that may appear in the work.
Katase Enoshima Station
Station Building Like the Dragon Palace
Katase Enoshima Station, the terminal station of the Odakyu Enoshima Line, is known for its unique station building designed after the Dragon Palace. It was renovated in 2020 and has become even more beautiful.
Characteristics of Katase Enoshima Station:
- Architecture inspired by the Dragon Palace
- Nearest station to Enoshima
- Crowded with many tourists during the swimming season
Appearances in the Work
Katase Enoshima Station appears when the characters visit Enoshima in Aobuta. The distinctive exterior of the station building is depicted as architecture symbolizing the nature of Shonan.
Shonan Coast Park
Shonan Coast Park is located on Katase Beach West Shore and is a spot where you can spend relaxing time while gazing at the ocean. It may appear in the work through coastline walking scenes and similar sequences.
Park Features:
- Spacious grass areas
- Open space with a full view of the sea
- Perfect for walks and jogging
- Sunset viewing spot
Model Courses for Aobuta Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Efficient Course to Complete in One Day
Here is a model course to efficiently visit Aobuta sacred sites in Fujisawa City in one day.
Morning (9:00 AM-12:00 PM):
- Start at Fujisawa Station (explore the surrounding area)
- Take the Odakyu Enoshima Line to Katase Enoshima Station
- Photograph the station building
- Head to Enoshima and cross Enoshima Ohashi Bridge
- Visit Enoshima Shrine
- Enjoy the view from Enoshima Sea Candle
Afternoon (12:00 PM-3:00 PM):
- Lunch at a restaurant on Enoshima
- Leave Enoshima and head to Enoshima Station on Enoden
- Take Enoden to Shichiri ga Hama Station
- Explore the Shichiri ga Hama coastline
- Take a break at a seaside cafe
Evening (3:00 PM-6:00 PM):
- Take Enoden to Kamakura High School Station
- Explore and photograph the area around Kamakura High School Station
- Aim for sunset time for coastal photography
- Return to the Fujisawa direction by Enoden
Half-Day Course (Centered on Enoshima)
If time is limited, a half-day course centered on Enoshima is recommended.
Time Required: Approximately 4 hours
- Gather at Katase Enoshima Station
- Cross Enoshima Ohashi Bridge (photo opportunity)
- Visit Enoshima Shrine
- View from Enoshima Sea Candle
- Lunch on the island
- Extend to Chigo ga Fuchi if time permits
- Leave Enoshima and disperse
Enoden Full Experience Course
A course that visits sacred sites along the Enoden line.
Time Required: Approximately 6 hours
- Board Enoden from Fujisawa Station
- Get off at Enoshima Station, visit Enoshima
- Get off at Shichiri ga Hama Station, explore the coastline
- Get off at Kamakura High School Station, photography time
- Continue to Kamakura by Enoden (visit Kamakura if time permits)
- Return to the Fujisawa direction by Enoden
How to Enjoy Sacred Site Pilgrimage and Etiquette
Photography Tips
Choosing the Right Time
The time of day is important for recreating the atmosphere of scenes in the work.
- Morning (6:00 AM-9:00 AM): Few people around, fresh atmosphere
- Midday (10:00 AM-3:00 PM): Ideal for recreating bright daily scenes
- Evening (4:00 PM-6:00 PM): Beautiful sunset and seascape
- Night: Illuminated Enoshima and similar scenes
Camera Settings
- Set saturation slightly higher to emphasize the blue of the ocean
- Use HDR function during backlighting
- Use continuous shooting mode for Enoden photography
- Use wide-angle lens to express the expanse of sea and sky
Etiquette to Follow
Consideration for Local Residents
Fujisawa City is both a tourist destination and a place where many people live.
- Behave quietly in residential areas
- Do not trespass on private property
- Always take trash with you
- Be careful about noise during early morning and nighttime hours
Observing Traffic Rules
- When photographing at crossings or on roads, ensure you do not obstruct traffic
- Never enter the tracks when photographing the Enoden
- Do not interfere with bicycle and vehicle traffic
- Avoid crossing roads outside of designated crossings
Facility Usage Etiquette
- Observe proper shrine etiquette when visiting religious facilities like Enoshima Shrine
- Photography permission may be required at commercial facilities
- Behave appropriately as a patron when using cafes and restaurants
- Avoid occupying spaces for extended periods during busy times
Practical Information for Enjoying Fujisawa City
Access Information
From Tokyo Area
Train:
- About 50 minutes by JR Tokaido Line to Fujisawa Station (from Tokyo Station)
- About 60 minutes by Odakyu Enoshima Line to Katase Enoshima Station (from Shinjuku Station)
Car:
- About 30 minutes from Atsugi IC on the Tomei Expressway
- About 10 minutes from Fujisawa IC on the New Shonan Bypass
From Yokohama Area
Train:
- About 20 minutes by JR Tokaido Line to Fujisawa Station
- About 30 minutes via Sotetsu Line and JR Line
Transportation Methods
Enoden
The Enoden (Enoshima Electric Railway) connects Fujisawa Station and Kamakura Station and is an essential transportation method for sacred site pilgrimage.
Characteristics of Enoden:
- Total length of 10 km, 15 stations
- Travel time: Approximately 34 minutes (Fujisawa-Kamakura)
- Retro vehicles and seaside scenery
- “Noriori-kun” day pass is convenient (650 yen for adults)
Bicycle Rental
Bicycle rental services are well-established in Fujisawa City and Kamakura City.
Advantages:
- Travel at your own pace
- Comfortable cycling along the coast
- Easy access to smaller spots
Notes:
- Strong sunlight in summer requires sun protection
- Some areas have steep slopes
- Confirm parking locations before using
Accommodations
Hotels in Fujisawa City
- Around Fujisawa Station: Business hotels are abundant, convenient access
- Around Enoshima: Resort hotels and ryokans, close to the ocean
- Katase Beach: Many accommodations for swimmers in summer
Surrounding Areas
- Kamakura City: Historic ryokans and temple lodgings
- Chigasaki City: Hotels near Sazan Beach
- Yokohama City: City hotels abundant, about 20 minutes by train to Fujisawa
Food Information
Shonan Specialties
Shirasu (whitebait):
- Numerous specialty shops around Enoshima and Katase Beach
- Fresh shirasu bowl is in season from mid-March to December
- Kamaage shirasu can be enjoyed year-round
Seafood Dishes:
- Fresh fish and shellfish caught in Sagami Bay
- Many seafood restaurants on Enoshima
Shonan Pancakes:
- Served at cafes in Shichiri ga Hama
- Cafe time while viewing the ocean is popular
Recommended Cafes
Shichiri ga Hama Area:
- bills Shichiri ga Hama: Ocean view pancake specialty restaurant
- AMALFI DELLA SERA: Italian restaurant, spectacular terrace seating
- Pacific DRIVE-IN: Casual Hawaiian-style cafe
Enoshima Area:
- LONCAFE: Inside Enoshima Island Spa, overlooking the ocean
- Cafe Madu: On Enoshima island, popular for shirasu dishes
Seasonal Highlights
Spring (March-May)
- Cherry blossoms on Enoshima (late March-early April)
- Fresh shirasu fishing begins (mid-March)
- Warm weather ideal for exploration
- Golden Week is very crowded
Summer (June-August)
- Katase Beach Swimming Area Opens (July-August)
- Enoshima Lanterns (August)
- Marine sports season
- Evening strolls on Enoshima
- Extremely crowded—early morning visits recommended
Autumn (September-November)
- Comfortable weather
- Autumn flavors (saury, etc.)
- Beautiful sunsets
- Relatively fewer crowds, ideal for sacred site pilgrimage
Winter (December-February)
- Enoshima Sea Candle lighting display (Shonan Jewels)
- Clear winter air with distinct views of Mount Fuji
- Fresh shirasu fishing prohibited (January-mid-March)
- Fewer tourists, can visit leisurely
Deepening Enjoyment of the Aobuta Work
Preparing for the Series
It is recommended to review the work beforehand to better enjoy sacred site pilgrimage.
Anime Version
- TV Anime: 13 episodes total (broadcast October-December 2018)
- Film: “Seishun Buta Yarō wa Yumemiru Shoujo no Yume wo Minai” (released June 2019)
Original Light Novel
- Published by Dengeki Bunko
- Illustrations by Mizoguchi Kage
- Series cumulative circulation exceeds 2 million copies (as of 2023)
Manga Version
- Multiple manga adaptations exist
- Character-specific spinoffs also available
Corresponding Scenes and Locations
When viewing the work, it is helpful to note which scenes are depicted at which locations for a more fulfilling sacred site pilgrimage.
Major Scenes and Locations:
- Conversation scenes on the beach → Shichiri ga Hama, Katase Beach
- Enoshima date → Various locations on Enoshima
- Commuting scenes → Fujisawa Station, Enoden
- Daily conversations → School (model school location not disclosed)
Related Merchandise
Official Merchandise
- Blu-ray/DVD
- Character goods
- Original books
- Soundtracks
Region-Limited Merchandise
Enoshima and Fujisawa City tourism facilities occasionally sell limited merchandise collaborating with Aobuta. Be sure to check during your visit.
Other Attractions of Fujisawa City
History and Culture
Yugyoji Temple (Seijokoji Temple)
The head temple of the Jishu School, it is a representative temple of Fujisawa City. The vast grounds and historical structures are noteworthy.
Fujisawa-juku
This location flourished as a post town on the Tokaido Road of the Edo period. Remnants of that era can be found in various locations today.
Nature and Leisure
Hikiji River Waterfront Park
A park along the Hikiji River that flows through the city, also known as a cherry blossom viewing spot.
Shinrin Park
A nature-rich park featuring a historic folk house and pond, allowing you to enjoy seasonal scenery.
Marine Sports
Fujisawa City is a mecca for surfing, windsurfing, SUP, and other marine sports. Many experience schools are available.
Events
Enoshima Lanterns (August)
A summer tradition where the entire Enoshima is decorated with approximately 1,000 lanterns.
Shonan Jewels (November-February)
One of the three largest illuminations in Kanto, featuring beautiful lighting centered on Enoshima Sea Candle.
Fujisawa Enoshima Fireworks Festival (October)
A fireworks display held on Katase Beach West Shore, where approximately 3,000 fireworks light up the night sky.
Conclusion: Rediscovering Fujisawa’s Charm Through Aobuta Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Fujisawa City, Kanagawa Prefecture, the setting for “Seishun Buta Yarō wa Bunny Girl Senpai no Yume wo Vinai,” is a charming city that combines beautiful coastlines, historic tourist sites, and modern convenience.
Through sacred site pilgrimage, you can experience the world of the work while also fully enjoying the unique attractions of Fujisawa City, including Shonan’s natural beauty, regional culture, and delicious cuisine.
As you visit sites featured in the work such as Enoshima, Shichiri ga Hama, and the Enoden line, confirming the landscapes the characters saw with your own eyes creates an unforgettable memory for fans.
When visiting, please remember to be considerate of local residents and enjoy sacred site pilgrimage while following proper etiquette. We hope your visit becomes a wonderful experience where you can fully enjoy both the world of Aobuta and the charm of Fujisawa City.
The Shonan sea and sky changing with the seasons, and the youth story that unfolded there. Why not visit Fujisawa City and immerse yourself in the world of Aobuta?
