【MF Ghost】 Odawara City, Kanagawa Prefecture

‘MF Ghost’ is a popular racing manga and anime work by Shigeno Shuichi, the author of ‘Initial D’. The story is set in “MFG,” a public road race in near-future Japan, and many of its courses are modeled after real roads that actually exist in Kanagawa Prefecture. This article provides a detailed introduction to sacred sites in Kanagawa Prefecture that MF Ghost fans should visit.

What is MF Ghost? Overview of the work and its connection to Kanagawa Prefecture

‘MF Ghost’ began serialization in ‘Young Magazine’ in 2017 and was adapted into a television anime in 2023, becoming a popular work. The protagonist, Kanata Rivington Katagiri, returns to Japan from England and participates in the public road race “MFG (M.F.G.)”.

The “MFG” that serves as the setting for the work is a public road race that unfolds mainly in the Hakone area of Kanagawa Prefecture, and features many real mountain passes and scenic roads. It is positioned as a sequel to ‘Initial D’, and with characters from the previous work also appearing, it is a must-see work for longtime fans.

Kanagawa Prefecture, particularly the Hakone area, is a treasure trove of some of Japan’s finest winding roads and has long been cherished by street racer culture and motorsports enthusiasts. MF Ghost creates realism and excitement by faithfully depicting these real roads.

Major Sacred Sites in the Hakone Area

Hakone Turnpike (Anest Iwata Turnpike Hakone)

One of the most important sacred sites in MF Ghost is the Hakone Turnpike (official name: Anest Iwata Turnpike Hakone). This 15.752 km toll road connects Odawara City to Hakone Town.

In the series, it frequently appears as “Turnpike” and is depicted as part of the MFG race course. When you actually visit, you can experience the sharp curves and elevation changes depicted in the work. In particular, the view from the Daikaiyama Observation Deck is spectacular, and on clear days you can see Mount Fuji and Sagami Bay in their entirety.

Access Information:

Fee: ¥930 for regular vehicles (as of 2024)
Operating hours: 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (varies by season)
Entrance: Odawara Main Line Toll Plaza (along National Route 1)
Note: Observe speed limits and drive safely

Ashi Lake Skyline

The Ashi Lake Skyline is a 10.75 km scenic toll road that runs along the ridge of the Hakone outer volcanic rim. In MF Ghost, it appears as the setting for important racing scenes.

Running at an elevation of around 1,000 meters, this road is also known as a scenic spot featuring Mount Fuji. The view near Mikuni Pass is particularly wonderful, allowing you to see both Lake Ashi and Mount Fuji simultaneously.

Points of Interest:

Shakushi Pass Observation Deck: A spectacular spot with views of Mount Fuji and Lake Ashi
Restaurant House Lake View: A facility for rest and dining
Connection point with Hakone Skyline

Access Information:

Fee: ¥860 for regular vehicles
Operating hours: 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (varies by season)
The road may be closed to traffic during winter due to snow and ice

Hakone Skyline

Hakone Skyline is a free scenic road that runs along the border between Kanagawa and Shizuoka Prefectures. Approximately 5 km in length, it connects with the Ashi Lake Skyline. In MF Ghost, this area is also depicted as part of the race course.

Features:

Free to use
Excellent views of Mount Fuji
A winding road from Mikuni Pass to Kosushi Pass
Popular as a night view spot

Area around Lake Ashi

Lake Ashi is the center of Hakone tourism and appears as an important location in MF Ghost. The area around Lake Ashi is depicted in pre-race scenes and daily scenes of the characters.

Points to Visit:

Hakone Shrine: Famous as a power spot
Lake Ashi Sightseeing Cruise: Enjoy Hakone scenery from the lake
Hakone Sekisho: A historical facility that recreates an Edo period checkpoint
Hakone Tozan Ropeway: The boarding point for the ropeway, with access to Owakudani

Sacred Sites in the Shonan and Odawara Areas

Odawara City Center

Odawara City is the gateway to Hakone and appears frequently in MF Ghost. City streets are depicted in scenes of the protagonists’ lives and race preparations.

Points of Interest:

Odawara Castle: A historic structure and tourist attraction
Around Odawara Station: City streetscapes that may appear in the work
National Route 1: The main road heading toward Hakone

Shonan Coast Area

The Shonan Coast appears as the hometown of MF Ghost characters and as background to the story. In particular, Shonan scenery is depicted in seaside driving scenes and daily life scenes.

Major Spots:

Nishi-Shonan Bypass: An expressway running along the coast
Around Oiso Long Beach
Ninomiya and Oiso Town area

Practical Model Courses for MF Ghost Sacred Site Tours

Day Trip Course (by car)

Total time: approximately 8 hours

9:00 AM Depart from Odawara Station

Rent a car or depart in your own vehicle
Light sightseeing at Odawara Castle (30 minutes)

10:00 AM Hakone Turnpike Drive

Enter at Odawara toll plaza
Rest and photo session at Daikaiyama Observation Deck (30 minutes)

12:00 PM Lunch around Lake Ashi

Lunch at a lakeside restaurant
Visit Hakone Shrine (1 hour)

2:00 PM Ashi Lake Skyline Drive

Mount Fuji photography at Shakushi Pass Observation Deck
Rest at Restaurant House

4:00 PM Hakone Skyline Drive

Stroll around Mikuni Pass area

5:00 PM Begin descent

Head toward Odawara via Hakone Turnpike or National Route 1

1 Night 2 Days Course

Day 1:

Morning: Arrive in Odawara, explore city center
Afternoon: Hakone Turnpike drive, Daikaiyama Observation Deck
Evening: Check in to hotel around Lake Ashi
Night: Enjoy Hakone hot springs

Day 2:

Morning: Ashi Lake Skyline and Hakone Skyline drives
Noon: Lunch in Hakone area
Afternoon: Sightseeing around Hakone (Owakudani, Gora, etc.)
Evening: Head back toward Odawara Station

Precautions and Manners for Sacred Site Tours

Strict Safe Driving

MF Ghost is a work featuring public road racing, but engaging in racing activity on actual public roads is absolutely prohibited. Please note the following:

Strictly observe speed limits
Be careful not to speed on winding roads with sharp curves
Absolutely no crossing into the opposing lane
Many motorcycles and bicycles use these roads, so be cautious when overtaking
Drive according to weather and road conditions

Consideration for Local Residents

The Hakone area is both a tourist destination and a place where residents live:

Be mindful of noise during early mornings and late nights
No parking on roadsides
Always take your trash with you
Avoid trespassing on private property
When taking photos, be mindful not to inconvenience other tourists or vehicles

Use of Toll Roads

Hakone Turnpike and Ashi Lake Skyline are toll roads
They cannot be accessed outside operating hours
Winter snow and ice may result in closures
Check the official website for the latest road information

Photography Etiquette

Never take photos while driving; it is extremely dangerous
Take photos only in safe locations such as parking lots and observation decks
Be considerate of other tourists appearing in photos
Drone photography requires permission in most locations; exercise caution

Best Seasons and Seasonal Highlights for Sacred Site Tours

Spring (March to May)

Recommendation: ★★★★☆

Mild weather makes for easy driving
Cherry blossom season (early April) offers flower viewing in Hakone
Golden Week can be crowded; best avoided
Beautiful contrast between snowy Mount Fuji and fresh green vegetation

Summer (June to August)

Recommendation: ★★★☆☆

Higher elevations are cooler than lowlands
Poor visibility during rainy season (June); exercise caution
Summer vacation brings crowds of tourists
Early morning driving is recommended

Autumn (September to November)

Recommendation: ★★★★★

The most suitable season for sacred site tours
Autumn leaves are beautiful (late October to mid-November)
Clear air provides excellent views of Mount Fuji
Comfortable temperatures and easy driving conditions

Winter (December to February)

Recommendation: ★★☆☆☆

Frequent closures due to snow and ice
Winter tires or chains necessary
Fewer tourists; peaceful atmosphere
Winter Mount Fuji is particularly beautiful
Recommended for experienced drivers only

Ways to Enjoy the MF Ghost World More Deeply

Prepare by Reviewing the Work

Reviewing the manga and anime before the tour will make it more enjoyable:

Read the manga to confirm which locations appear in which scenes
Compare real scenery with anime depictions
Watching ‘Initial D’ as well deepens understanding of the Hakone area

Attention to Vehicle Details

Various vehicles appear in MF Ghost. If possible, driving in a vehicle similar to those in the series enhances the atmosphere:

Protagonist Kanata’s vehicle: Toyota 86 (ZN6)
Renting a sports car is one option
However, safe driving takes priority over vehicle choice

Photography Tips

Commemorate your tour by taking photos from the same angles as the work:

Prepare screenshots from manga and anime
Find the same location and angle
Scenic views from observation decks are particularly easy to recreate
Matching lighting at dawn and dusk enhances the atmosphere

Enjoy Surrounding Tourist Attractions

Hakone is one of Japan’s premier tourist destinations. Enjoy surrounding attractions as well as sacred sites:

Hakone Hot Springs: Many day-use hot spring facilities
Hakone Museum of Art, Pola Museum of Art: Art appreciation
Hakone Ropeway: Spectacular Owakudani views
Hakone Tozan Railway: Particularly popular during hydrangea season
Hakone Gora Park: Ideal for strolling

Access Methods and Transportation

Access by Public Transportation

Train:

From Tokyo: JR Tokaido Line and Odakyu Line to Odawara Station (approximately 1 hour)
From Shinjuku: Odakyu Romance Car to Hakone-Yumoto Station (approximately 1 hour 30 minutes)
From Hakone-Yumoto: Hakone Tozan Bus to each destination

Note:
Public transportation does not allow for the experience of driving the Hakone Turnpike or Ashi Lake Skyline. Using a sightseeing bus tour or renting a car is recommended.

Access by Car

From Tokyo:

Tomei Expressway → Atsugi IC → Odawara-Atsugi Road → Hakone (approximately 1 hour 30 minutes)
Tomei Expressway → Gotemba IC → National Route 138 → Hakone (approximately 1 hour 30 minutes)

From Nagoya:

Tomei Expressway → Gotemba IC → National Route 138 → Hakone (approximately 3 hours)

Rental Car Information

A rental car is the most convenient option for sacred site tours in the Hakone area:

Major Rental Car Companies:

Around Odawara Station: Toyota Rent-a-Car, Nissan Rent-a-Car, Orix Rent-a-Car, etc.
Around Hakone-Yumoto Station: Times Car Rental, Nippon Rent-a-Car, etc.

Price Range:

Compact car: ¥6,000–/day
Sports car: ¥15,000–/day (limited to certain locations)

Booking Tips:

Early reservations are essential for weekends and holidays
Choose vehicles with built-in navigation systems
Bringing an ETC card smooths high-speed toll payments

How to Choose Accommodations

Hakone-Yumoto Area

The gateway to Hakone with numerous hot spring inns:

Features:

Convenient location near the station
Enjoy the atmosphere of a hot spring town
Price range: ¥10,000–30,000/night

Area around Lake Ashi

Close to the center of sacred site tours, convenient for sightseeing:

Features:

Enjoy views of Lake Ashi
Luxury resort hotels abound
Price range: ¥15,000–50,000/night

Odawara City Center

More affordable than the Hakone area:

Features:

Business hotels predominate
Can depart for Hakone area early the next morning
Price range: ¥5,000–15,000/night

Car Camping

Possible Locations:

Rest areas and certain parking areas
Paid parking (24-hour facilities)

Precautions:

Idling is prohibited (noise and exhaust)
Always take trash with you
Extended parking is prohibited in some locations
Winter cold-weather preparation is essential

Stores carrying official MF Ghost merchandise are limited in the Hakone area, but can be obtained through:

Specialty shops such as Animate (near Odawara Station)
Advance purchase through online shops
Event-exclusive merchandise (note operating dates)

Hakone Souvenirs

For keepsakes of your sacred site tour, Hakone specialty souvenirs are recommended:

Popular Souvenirs:

Hakone Yosegi Zaiku: Traditional crafts
Hot spring buns: Hakone-Yumoto specialty
Moon Rabbit: Popular traditional sweets
Hakone Beer: Local craft beer
Black eggs: Owakudani specialty (legend says eating one extends your lifespan by seven years)

Local Food Information

Odawara Cuisine

Seafood:

Odawara fishing port morning market (weekends)
Seafood rice bowls at local eateries
Dried local fish

Kamaboko (fish cake):

Suzuhiro Kamaboko no Sato: Factory tours available
Fresh kamaboko tasting

Hakone Cuisine

Soba:

Hakone Soba: Multiple locations
Mountain vegetable soba is recommended

Cafes:

Lake view cafes around Lake Ashi
Daikaiyama observation restaurant

Hot Spring Buns:

Long-established confectioneries in Hakone-Yumoto
Enjoy fresh ones as street food

Hashtag Usage

When sharing sacred site tour records on social media, use the following hashtags:

#MFゴースト
#MFゴースト聖地巡礼
#箱根
#箱根ターンパイク
#芦ノ湖スカイライン
#聖地巡礼
#頭文字D

Posting Precautions

Set location information accurately
Be mindful of spoilers in captions
Enjoy interaction with fellow fans
Never forget your appreciation and respect for the work

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I do a sacred site tour without a driver’s license?

A: It is possible but with limitations. Using Hakone Tozan Bus or sightseeing bus tours, you can visit major tourist attractions. However, you cannot experience driving the Hakone Turnpike or Ashi Lake Skyline yourself. Chartering a taxi is another option but costs more.

Q: Is it possible to visit all major sacred sites in one day?

A: It is possible but requires a very tight schedule. Starting early and planning routes efficiently, you can visit the Hakone Turnpike, Ashi Lake Skyline, Hakone Skyline, and the Lake Ashi area in one day. However, for leisurely photography and sightseeing, 1 night and 2 days is recommended.

Q: Can I do a sacred site tour in winter?

A: It is possible but requires caution. The Hakone area experiences snow and ice in winter, and the Hakone Turnpike and Ashi Lake Skyline may close. Winter tires or chains are essential, and those without confidence in winter driving should avoid the area. Check road information in advance.

Q: Can I rent a car matching the vehicle in the series?

A: Some vehicles like the Toyota 86 can be rented from sports car specialty rental companies. However, standard rental companies have limited selection, and prices are higher. Reservations fill quickly, requiring advance booking. Options include Omega Rent-a-Car and Phantom Rent-a-Car.

Q: Is it better to do a sacred site tour on weekdays or weekends?

A: Weekdays are recommended. Weekends, especially holidays and vacation periods, are crowded with tourists and experience road congestion. Toll plazas also have wait times. Weekdays are relatively uncrowded, allowing for leisurely sacred site tours. However, even weekdays are busy during autumn foliage season (late October to mid-November).

Q: How much budget is needed for a sacred site tour?

A: For a day trip, budget approximately ¥15,000 including rental car (approximately ¥8,000), toll road fees (Hakone Turnpike ¥930 + Ashi Lake Skyline ¥860), gasoline (approximately ¥2,000), and meals (approximately ¥3,000). For 1 night and 2 days, add accommodation costs (¥10,000–30,000). Additional expressway fees apply if using highways.

Summary: Making the Most of Your MF Ghost Sacred Site Tour

An MF Ghost sacred site tour is a precious opportunity to experience the work’s world firsthand. The Hakone area of Kanagawa Prefecture attracts with beautiful natural scenery and winding roads and is worth visiting even for non-series fans.

Key points for a successful sacred site tour are:

Thorough Preparation: Review the work and confirm locations to visit
Safe Driving as Top Priority: Never imitate public road racing
Never Forget Consideration for Local Residents: Follow proper etiquette
Consider Weather and Season: Autumn is ideal, but each season has appeal
Plan a Relaxed Schedule: 1 night and 2 days is recommended
Enjoy Surrounding Attractions: Hakone has many sights

Enjoy the beautiful Hakone scenery and the MF Ghost world simultaneously on your sacred site tour. Drive safely, follow proper etiquette, and create wonderful memories. Approach the experience with love and respect for the work, and savor Hakone’s charms to the fullest.

Although MF Ghost is set in near-future Japan, the Hakone that serves as its backdrop retains its timeless beauty. Please visit in person and experience the roads that Kanata and others traveled. Surely your understanding of the work will deepen, and you will discover something new.