Introduction: The Deep Connection Between Bungo Stray Dogs and Kanagawa Prefecture
“Bungo Stray Dogs” (commonly known as “Bungo Stray Dogs”) is a popular manga and anime series created by Kafka Asagiri and illustrated by Harukawa 35. In this work where characters inspired by real literary figures wield supernatural abilities to fight, Kanagawa Prefecture, particularly Yokohama City, is depicted as an important setting for the story.
In the series, the headquarters of organizations like the “Armed Detective Agency” and “Port Mafia” are set in Yokohama, and many actual Yokohama landscapes are reflected in the work. For this reason, Kanagawa Prefecture has become a must-visit pilgrimage destination for Bungo Stray Dogs fans.
This article provides detailed introductions to Bungo Stray Dogs-related spots in Kanagawa Prefecture, including efficient pilgrimage routes and photography tips, delivering comprehensive information to maximize your enjoyment of the location pilgrimage.
Why Kanagawa Prefecture Became the Setting for Bungo Stray Dogs
Historical Background of Yokohama as a Port Town
Since its opening in the late Edo period, Yokohama has developed as an international city symbolizing Japan’s modernization. In the world of Bungo Stray Dogs, this historical port town setting adds depth to the story.
The underworld where supernatural users operate in the shadows, conflicts with international organizations like the “Guild,” and the international nature and history of Yokohama made it the perfect setting for the work.
Retro-Modern Streetscapes and the Work’s World View
Yokohama has many buildings retaining the appearance of the Taisho and early Showa periods, such as the Red Brick Warehouse, Yamashita Park, and the Yokohama Three Towers (King Tower, Queen Tower, and Jack Tower). This retro-modern atmosphere harmonizes beautifully with the worldview of a work featuring literary figures as its characters.
Detailed Major Pilgrimage Spots in the Yokohama Area
Around the Red Brick Warehouse
Appearance Scenes in the Work
The Red Brick Warehouse appears multiple times in the opening sequence and important scenes of anime Season 1. It’s used impressively in scenes where Armed Detective Agency members visit on missions and in confrontation scenes with the Port Mafia.
How to Access
- Approximately 6 minutes walk from “Bashamichi Station” or “Nihon-odori Station” on the Minato Mirai Line
- Approximately 15 minutes walk from “Sakuragicho Station” (JR/Yokohama Municipal Subway)
- Directly under “Red Brick Park” bus stop
Photography Spots
Photographing from the front of the Red Brick Warehouse allows you to recreate the same angle as anime cuts. Especially the illuminated red brick warehouse at dusk is the best time to express the work’s atmosphere.
Shots with the warehouse and sea in the background are also recommended, allowing you to feel Yokohama’s unique port town atmosphere.
Yamashita Park
Importance in the Work
Yamashita Park appears in various scenes, including conversations between characters and tense pre-combat scenes. Shots with the sea as a backdrop are particularly impressive, and it’s also used in scenes where Nakajima Atsushi and Dazai Osamu converse.
Highlights
- Hikawa Maru: A historic passenger ship berthed at Yamashita Park that also appears in the work
- Baybridge Views: A landscape used in the work’s opening sequence
- Around the “Girl in Red Shoes Statue”: Identified as a place where a character stood
Access
A 3-minute walk from Exit 4 of “Motomachi・Chinatown Station” on the Minato Mirai Line, making it ideal as a pilgrimage base.
Yokohama Port Opening Bridge International Passenger Terminal
Appearance in the Work
Osanbashi is featured in anime opening and ending sequences and important scenes in the main story. Particularly the rooftop deck “Whale’s Back” offers a 360-degree panoramic view where you can see the entire Yokohama cityscape.
Photography Tips
- Photography from the rooftop deck with Minato Mirai high-rise buildings in the background
- Shots facing seaward toward the Baybridge
- For night photography, a tripod is useful (though be cautious about usage during crowded times)
Business Information
- Free admission, open 24 hours (rooftop deck)
- Access: Approximately 7 minutes walk from “Nihon-odori Station” on the Minato Mirai Line
Minato Mirai Area
Around Landmark Tower
Landmark Tower, a symbol of Minato Mirai, frequently appears in scenes reflecting Yokohama’s cityscape. From the observation deck “Sky Garden,” you can see the entire Yokohama cityscape that appears in the work.
Queens Square Yokohama
A convenient spot for shopping and cafe breaks, ideal as a rest point during pilgrimage.
Rinko Park
A spacious park along the sea, used as a location for open scenes in the work.
Yokohama Chinatown Area
Relevance in the Work
Yokohama Chinatown is set as the location of the Port Mafia headquarters, serving as an important stage that evokes the atmosphere of the underworld. The actual atmosphere of Chinatown adds depth to the work’s world view.
Recommended Spots
- Zen’in Gate (East Gate): An iconic gate of Chinatown
- Guandi Temple: Its solemn atmosphere matches the work’s world view
- Chinatown Main Street: The lively atmosphere of the street is reflected in the work
Gourmet Information
Between pilgrimages, you can enjoy authentic Chinese cuisine and street food. Xiaolongbao, steamed buns, and tapioca drinks are perfect for refueling energy.
Motomachi・Yamatearea
Western Buildings and the Work’s World View
The Yamate area is dotted with Western buildings from the Meiji and Taisho periods, perfectly matching the retro-modern world view of Bungo Stray Dogs.
- Foreign Cemetery: The historical atmosphere resonates with the work’s time period setting
- Park with a View of the Harbor: A viewing spot overlooking Yokohama Port
- Bluff 18 Bancho and other Western buildings: Architecture filled with Taisho romance
Access
Within walking distance via Motomachi Shopping Street from Exit 6 of “Motomachi・Chinatown Station” on the Minato Mirai Line.
Around Yokohama Station
Appearance in the Work
Yokohama Station is depicted as a hub where characters move through. Its modern urban atmosphere expresses the work’s contemporary nature.
Convenience
Ideal as a starting or ending point for pilgrimages, with numerous train lines servicing it, making access extremely convenient.
Efficient Pilgrimage Model Courses
1-Day Course: Complete Yokohama City Center Conquest Plan
Morning (9:00-12:00)
- Start at Yokohama Station (9:00)
- Travel to “Motomachi・Chinatown Station” via Minato Mirai Line (9:15)
- Yamashita Park exploration and photography (9:30-10:30)
- Yokohama Port Opening Bridge International Passenger Terminal (10:45-11:30)
- Walk to Red Brick Warehouse (11:45)
Lunch (12:00-13:00)
Rest at a restaurant or cafe inside the Red Brick Warehouse
Afternoon (13:00-17:00)
- Minato Mirai area exploration (13:30-15:00)
- Around Landmark Tower
- Rinko Park
- Move to Motomachi・Chinatown area (15:30)
- Yokohama Chinatown exploration and photography (15:45-16:45)
- Motomachi・Yamate area (Western building tour) (17:00-18:00)
Evening and Beyond (18:00-)
- Night photography: Return to Osanbashi or Red Brick Warehouse (18:30-19:30)
- Return to Yokohama Station (20:00)
Half-Day Course: Essential Spots Selection Plan
Required Time: Approximately 4-5 hours
- Start at “Nihon-odori Station” on Minato Mirai Line
- Osanbashi (30 minutes)
- Yamashita Park (40 minutes)
- Red Brick Warehouse (40 minutes)
- Minato Mirai area (60 minutes)
- Return to Yokohama Station
This course efficiently covers the most important pilgrimage sites, making it recommended for those with limited time.
2-Day Course: Kanagawa Prefecture-Wide Pilgrimage Plan
Day 1: Central Yokohama
Main pilgrimage sites in Yokohama following the above 1-day course
Day 2: Expanded Surrounding Areas
- Kamakura area: Sites connected to literary figures (the footsteps of real authors such as Osamu Dazai and Ryunosuke Akutagawa)
- Enoshima: Image source for seaside scenes
- Kawasaki area: Industrial atmosphere related to some scenes in the work
Preparation and Essentials for Pilgrimage
Essential Items
Camera/Smartphone
Essential for taking commemorative photos at pilgrimage sites. Remember to bring spare batteries or a mobile battery.
Work Materials
- Anime screenshots (saved on your phone)
- Relevant manga scenes
- Pilgrimage maps (downloaded in advance or printed)
Maps/Navigation
Downloading navigation apps like Google Maps is convenient. Make use of offline map features.
Helpful Items to Have
- Comfortable shoes: You may walk over 10km in a day
- Hat and sunscreen: For outdoor photography in summer
- Rain gear: To prepare for weather changes
- Notebook and pen: For recording visits and impressions
- Drinks and light snacks: Important for regular hydration
Advance Preparation
Review of the Work
Rewatching anime or re-reading manga before your visit will double the emotional impact at the site. Particularly, knowing which scenes are filmed where is efficient.
Weather Check
Since Yokohama is coastal, there can be windy days. Check the weather forecast and prepare appropriate clothing.
Confirmation of Business Hours and Closed Days
Some facilities have limited business hours or days. Particularly, many Western buildings are closed on Mondays, so attention is needed.
Photography Etiquette and Rules
Basic Etiquette
Adherence to Private Property and Facility Rules
Refrain from photography in prohibited areas and follow facility rules. Some locations like shops inside the Red Brick Warehouse have photography restrictions.
Consideration for Other Tourists
Besides pilgrims, many general tourists visit these areas. Avoid occupying locations for extended periods or speaking loudly, showing consideration for surroundings.
Tripod Usage
Using tripods in crowded places or on sidewalks may obstruct other pedestrians. If using one, select less crowded times and locations.
Notes on SNS Posts
Spoiler Consideration
When posting about the latest episodes with potential spoilers, be sure to include a spoiler warning.
Handling Location Information
Avoid sharing real-time location information due to privacy and safety risks. Judge carefully before posting.
Copyright Awareness
When using images from the work, be mindful of copyright and practice appropriate citation and usage.
Recommended Visiting Seasons
Spring (March-May)
Merits
- Mild weather ideal for walking tours
- Cherry blossom season (late March-early April) features beautiful blossoms at Yamashita Park and Motomachi Park
- Relatively uncrowded before Golden Week
Notes
- Very crowded during Golden Week
- Hay fever measures needed for sufferers
Summer (June-August)
Merits
- Summer events and fireworks displays may occur
- Longer evening photography hours
- Pleasant sea breeze along the coast
Notes
- Heat countermeasures and heat stroke prevention essential
- Rain gear necessary during rainy season (June-mid July)
- Sun protection important
Fall (September-November)
Merits
- The most comfortable season weather-wise
- Beautiful autumn foliage (November)
- Clear air ideal for photography
- Many events held
Notes
- Crowded during peak season
- Typhoon season (September-October) requires attention to weather changes
Winter (December-February)
Merits
- Beautiful illuminations (late November-February)
- Clear air ideal for night photography
- Relatively uncrowded
- Special Christmas season atmosphere
Notes
- Cold weather countermeasures necessary
- Early sunset (around 16:30)
- Some facilities closed during New Year period
Accommodation Information and Access
Recommended Accommodation Areas
Around Yokohama Station
- Best transportation convenience
- Wide hotel options
- Price range: Business hotel ¥5,000~, city hotel ¥10,000~
Minato Mirai Area
- Closest to pilgrimage sites
- Mostly high-end hotels
- Night views enjoyable
- Price range: ¥10,000~¥30,000+
Kannai・Sakuragicho Area
- Good access to pilgrimage sites
- Many business hotels at relatively reasonable prices
- Price range: ¥4,000~¥10,000
Motomachi・Chinatown Area
- Atmosphere full of exotic charm
- Convenient for Chinatown dining
- Price range: ¥7,000~¥15,000
Access from Outside Kanagawa Prefecture
From Tokyo
- JR Tokaido Line / Yokosuka Line: Approximately 25 minutes from Tokyo Station to Yokohama Station
- Tokyu Toyoko Line: Approximately 30 minutes from Shibuya to Yokohama (direct connection to Minato Mirai Line)
- JR Shonan Shinjuku Line: Approximately 35 minutes from Shinjuku to Yokohama
From Kansai Region
- Shinkansen: Approximately 2 hours 10 minutes from Shin-Osaka to Shin-Yokohama, then approximately 11 minutes by JR Yokohama Line to Yokohama
- Night bus: Approximately 8 hours from Osaka/Kyoto to Yokohama Station (budget option)
From Chubu Region
- Shinkansen: Approximately 1 hour 40 minutes from Nagoya to Shin-Yokohama
From Other Regions
- Airplane: Approximately 30 minutes by Keikyuu Line from Haneda Airport to Yokohama Station
- Express bus: Direct buses from throughout Japan to Yokohama Station
City Transportation
Minato Mirai Line
The most convenient line for pilgrimage. Major stations:
- Yokohama Station
- Shin-Takashima Station
- Minato Mirai Station
- Bashamichi Station
- Nihon-odori Station
- Motomachi・Chinatown Station
1-Day Pass
- Minato Mirai Line “Minato Burari Ticket”: ¥460 for adults (weekends/holidays only)
- Yokohama Municipal Subway / Bus Combined “Minato Burari Ticket Wide”: ¥500 for adults
Using these tickets saves on transportation costs.
Walking
Since major pilgrimage spots are concentrated within walking distance, walking between sites on nice weather days is recommended. You can enjoy Yokohama’s streetscapes while traveling.
Merchandise Purchase and Collaboration Cafe Information
Permanent Merchandise Retailers
Animate Yokohama
Located a 5-minute walk from Yokohama Station’s west exit, with Bungo Stray Dogs-related merchandise always in stock.
- Address: 2-8-16 Minami-Saiwai, Nishi Ward, Yokohama, Kanagawa
- Hours: 11:00-20:00
Toranoana Yokohama Store
Offers doujinshi, official merchandise, and limited items.
Bookstores Around Yokohama Station
Yurindo, TSUTAYA, Kinokuniya Bookstore, etc. carry original manga and anime DVDs/Blu-rays.
Limited-Time Collaboration Information
Bungo Stray Dogs regularly holds collaboration events and collaboration cafes around Yokohama.
Past Collaboration Examples
- Collaboration events at Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse
- Stamp rally in Minato Mirai area
- Limited-time collaboration cafes (around Yokohama Station)
- Yokohama Municipal Subway collaboration projects
How to Get Latest Information
- Official Twitter (@bungosd_anime)
- Official website
- Yokohama Tourism Information Website
- Store information from Animate, etc.
Checking for latest collaboration information before your visit enables a more fulfilling pilgrimage experience.
Nearby Literary Figure Heritage Sites
Since Bungo Stray Dogs features real literary figures as characters, visiting sites related to actual authors offers an intriguing experience.
Kamakura Area
Sites Connected to Ryunosuke Akutagawa
Kamakura features the remains of inns where Ryunosuke Akutagawa stayed. The Kanagawa Literature Museum allows visitors to see resources about literary figures.
Osamu Dazai and Kamakura
Osamu Dazai also stayed in Kamakura, with the area serving as a setting for his works.
Literary Spots within Yokohama City
Kanagawa Modern Literature Museum
Located within Harbor View Park, this museum exhibits materials related to literary figures from Kanagawa. You can view materials about authors like Soseki Natsume, Ryunosuke Akutagawa, and Osamu Dazai, whose works inspired Bungo Stray Dogs characters.
- Address: 110 Yamatecho, Naka Ward, Yokohama
- Access: 10 minutes walk from Exit 6 of “Motomachi・Chinatown Station” on Minato Mirai Line
- Hours: 9:30-17:00 (last entry 16:30)
- Closed: Mondays (if Monday is a holiday, closed the following weekday)
How to Maximize Your Pilgrimage Enjoyment
Deepening Your Understanding of the Work
Recreation Photography of Scenes
Photographing specific anime or manga scenes from the same angle allows you to experience being immersed in the work’s world. Preparing screenshots in advance lets you compare with the actual location during photography.
Embodying Characters
Stand where your favorite character stood, strike the same poses, and experience the work’s world firsthand.
Interaction Between Fans
Information Sharing via SNS
Posting with hashtags like “#BungoStrayDogsPilgrimage” or “#BungoSt Pilgrimage” on Twitter or Instagram allows interaction with fellow fans.
Meeting Fans at Pilgrimage Sites
You may encounter fellow fans visiting for the same purpose at these locations. Following etiquette while enjoying social interaction is one of the highlights of pilgrimage.
Record Keeping
Pilgrimage Notebook
Recording visit dates and times, weather, and impressions creates cherished memories when reviewed later.
Photo Albums
Organizing visit records, whether digitally or physically, provides future enjoyment.
SNS Posting
Posting visit records in real-time or later allows interaction with other fans and information sharing.
Budget Guide
Day Trip Plan (From Greater Tokyo Area)
- Transportation: ¥1,000-2,000
- Meals: ¥2,000-3,000
- Facility admission: ¥500-1,000 (observation decks, etc.)
- Merchandise purchase: ¥3,000-10,000 (optional)
- Total: Approximately ¥7,000-15,000
1-Night 2-Day Plan (From Greater Kanto Area)
- Transportation: ¥2,000-5,000
- Accommodation: ¥5,000-15,000
- Meals: ¥4,000-6,000 (2 days)
- Facility admission: ¥1,000-2,000
- Merchandise purchase: ¥3,000-10,000 (optional)
- Total: Approximately ¥15,000-40,000
2-Night 3-Day Plan From Distant Locations
- Transportation: ¥10,000-50,000 (varies greatly by region)
- Accommodation: ¥10,000-30,000 (2 nights)
- Meals: ¥6,000-10,000 (3 days)
- Facility admission: ¥1,500-3,000
- Merchandise purchase: ¥5,000-15,000 (optional)
- Total: Approximately ¥30,000-100,000
Money-saving tips include using advance booking discounts for transportation and accommodation, staying at business hotels, and purchasing food from convenience stores or supermarkets.
For Safe and Comfortable Pilgrimage
Health Management
Hydration
Especially in summer, regular water intake is crucial for heat stroke prevention. While convenience stores and vending machines are plentiful, carry beverages with you.
Appropriate Rest Breaks
Don’t overexert with unrealistic schedules. Take regular rest breaks at cafes or benches.
Valuables Management
Tourist areas can become crowded, so carefully manage valuables. Effective measures include wearing backpacks in front and carrying valuables in separate locations.
Emergency Response
In Case of Illness
Numerous medical facilities exist throughout Yokohama. For sudden illness, purchase medicine at nearby pharmacies or convenience stores, or seek medical attention as needed.
If Lost or Confused About Directions
Use your smartphone’s GPS feature. Also, obtaining maps from stations or tourist information centers provides peace of mind.
Conclusion: How to Maximize Your Bungo Stray Dogs Pilgrimage
Kanagawa Prefecture, particularly Yokohama City, is the ultimate pilgrimage destination to experience the Bungo Stray Dogs world. Visiting various locations featured in the work—the Red Brick Warehouse, Yamashita Park, Osanbashi, and Minato Mirai area—deepens both your understanding and affection for the series.
Careful route planning, proper preparation, and adherence to etiquette ensure safe and fulfilling pilgrimage experiences. Check seasonal attractions and collaboration event information to create your own special pilgrimage memories.
Please experience this special time where Yokohama’s beautiful streets blend with the world of Bungo Stray Dogs. For all fans devoted to the work, pilgrimage in Kanagawa Prefecture will surely become an unforgettable memory.
Finally, while pilgrimage is a wonderful way to express your love of the work, remember to show consideration for local residents and other tourists. Practice respectful etiquette and enjoy a safe and pleasant pilgrimage.
