Complete Guide to Sacred Sites of “From Up on Poppy Hill” | Thorough Explanation of Filming Locations and Settings in Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture
Released in July 2011, the Studio Ghibli film “From Up on Poppy Hill” is a coming-of-age romance set in Yokohama in 1963. Directed by Goro Miyazaki, this work depicts the cityscape of Yokohama during Japan’s period of high economic growth and the pure love between the protagonist Umi Matsuzaki and Shun Kazama, continuing to captivate many fans.
This article introduces actual filming locations and places that served as models featured in the film. We present a complete guide to visiting the sacred sites of this work, which was created through a partnership with Yokohama City.
“From Up on Poppy Hill”: The Setting of Yokohama
The Reason for Choosing Yokohama in 1963
The year 1963, which serves as the film’s setting, was a time when Japan was in the midst of rapid economic growth, with the Tokyo Olympics scheduled to open the following year. As an international city since its opening to foreign trade, Yokohama possessed a unique atmosphere where Western and Japanese cultures had fused together as a port town.
At that time, Yokohama had both the vitality of postwar reconstruction and the nostalgic landscape of the good old Showa era coexisting side by side. The film features various locations that have been carefully preserved from that era to the present, including the Western-style mansions of Yamashita, the Motomachi shopping street, and Yamashita Park.
Partnership Between Studio Ghibli and Yokohama City
“From Up on Poppy Hill” was officially partnered with Yokohama City, and commemorative events and exhibitions were held at various locations in the city at the time of its release. Currently, a commemorative sign is installed at the Minatomieru Hill Park, serving as a landmark for sacred site pilgrimages.
[Minatomieru Hill Park Area] The Setting of Poppy Hill
Points of Interest at Minatomieru Hill Park
The area around Minatomieru Hill Park is considered the model for “Poppy Hill,” which also appears in the film’s title. Located on a small hill, this park offers a panoramic view of the Yokohama Bay Bridge, Yokohama Port, and the Minato Mirai cityscape.
Within the park, a sign commemorating the film’s setting has been installed, making it a popular photo spot for movie fans. Additionally, the international signal flag “U·W Flag” (meaning “wishing for safe navigation” and “wishing for your good fortune”) that Umi raised every morning is actually displayed.
Access Information:
- 5 minutes on foot from Exit 6 of Motomachi-Chukagai Station on the Minato Mirai Line
- About 20 minutes on foot from JR Ishikawa-cho Station
- Free admission, open 24 hours
Kanagawa Modern Literature Hall and Poppy Hill
The area near the Kanagawa Modern Literature Hall, located at the back of Minatomieru Hill Park, is said to have been the model for the “Poppy Hill” scenery that appears in the film. The view of Yokohama Port from the slope evokes a scene from the movie.
The actual place name “Poppy Hill” does not exist in Yokohama; it was created specifically for the film. However, the atmosphere and landscape of this area have become important elements that shape the world of the work.
Is the Model for the Poppy Hill Dormitory Real?
The boarding house “Poppy Hill Dormitory” where Umi lives with her family is a central location in the film. Set as a Western-style mansion on a hill with a view, there is reportedly no specific model for it.
However, the theory that the former Yanagishita residence within Negishi Nostalgia Park, mentioned later, is closest to its exterior image is the most credible. Additionally, it is thought that the atmosphere of the group of Western-style mansions scattered throughout the Yamashita area (the Diplomat’s House, Bluff 18 Mansion, etc.) were collectively referenced as inspiration.
[Yamashita Area] A Street Full of Foreign Charm and Western-style Mansions
The Group of Western-style Mansions in Yamashita
The Yokohama Yamashita district developed as a foreign settlement after the opening of the port, and many Western architectural structures remain today. The scenery of the Western-style mansions appearing in the film strongly reflects the atmosphere of this area.
Major Mansion Facilities:
- The Diplomat’s House (Important Cultural Property)
- Bluff 18 Mansion
- Behric Hall
- Erisman House
- Yamashita 234 Mansion
These mansions are free to visit and offer the opportunity to experience the lifestyles of that era. It can be said that this is an ideal area for taking a stroll while feeling the world of the film.
Yamashita Main Street and Stone-paved Slopes
Yamashita Main Street is a main street lined with exotic street trees and Western-style mansions. The scenes of slopes appearing in the film are thought to be modeled after the stone-paved slopes around this area.
In particular, Yatosaka is a steep slope that continues from Motomachi shopping street to the Yamashita area, still retaining an atmosphere like that of the film.
[Motomachi Area] The Shopping Street Where Umi and Shun Walked
Motomachi Shopping Street Then and Now
Motomachi shopping street is a representative shopping street of Yokohama with a history since the opening of the port. The film features scenes such as Umi and Shun walking on a date.
While the shops have changed compared to 1963, the basic structure and atmosphere of the shopping street remain intact. The European-style landscape created by the stone-paved street and street trees is the world of the film itself.
Access:
- Right near Exit 5 of Motomachi-Chukagai Station on the Minato Mirai Line
- 5 minutes on foot from JR Ishikawa-cho Station
Film Appearance Spots Around Motomachi
The Motomachi area features fine details from the film scattered throughout. The appearance of old buildings, landscapes of back alleys, and views of the port from slopes are among the many places where visitors can recall scenes from the film while taking a stroll.
[Yamashita Park Area] An Unchanging Symbol of Yokohama
Points of Interest at Yamashita Park
Yamashita Park, where the memorable scene of Umi and Shun walking appears, retains an almost unchanged landscape more than 10 years after the film’s release. From this park facing Yokohama Port, one can see the Osanbashi, the Hikawa Maru, the Marine Tower, and other landmarks.
Main Points of Interest:
- Hikawa Maru (Important Cultural Property): A historic passenger ship that also appears in the film
- Red Shoes Girl Statue
- Indian Water Tower
- View of Yokohama Port
The Hikawa Maru and the Landscape of Yokohama Port
The Hikawa Maru, moored at Yamashita Park, is a cargo-passenger ship built in 1930 that was still in service in 1963, the film’s time period. It appears multiple times in port scenes in the film, serving as an important element in creating the atmosphere of Yokohama at that time.
The Hikawa Maru is now open to the public as a museum ship, and visitors can tour the interior (fee required). It is a valuable spot where one can experience the interior decoration of a luxurious passenger ship from the early Showa period.
Hikawa Maru Viewing Information:
- Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Last admission at 4:30 PM)
- Closed: Mondays (If Monday is a holiday, closed the following weekday)
- Admission: General ¥300, Senior (65 years and older) ¥200, Elementary, Middle, and High School Students ¥100
Yokohama Marine Tower
The Yokohama Marine Tower that appears in the film opened in 1961 as a symbol of Yokohama. It also functioned as a lighthouse at that time. Currently, after a renovation in 2022, it has become a tourist attraction offering observation floors and restaurants.
[Sakuragichō and Kannai Area] Key Transportation Hub
The Area Around Sakuragichō Station
Sakuragichō Station, which appears in the film, was the terminal station of the Tōyoko Line in 1963. While the current Sakuragichō Station has undergone significant changes, the view of Yokohama Port from the station remains intact.
In the film, scenes such as Umi and Shun commuting by train appear around Sakuragichō Station. While the original station building no longer remains, the topography and distance to the port still allow visitors to feel the atmosphere of the film.
The Tōyoko Line Route and Tunnel
In 1963, the Tōyoko Line operated to Sakuragichō Station, and the film features scenes of trains running under a bridge and entering a tunnel. Currently, this section has been abandoned, and part of it has been developed into a promenade.
[Isogo Ward] Model Candidate for Poppy Hill Dormitory
Negishi Nostalgia Park and the Former Yanagishita Residence
The former Yanagishita residence within “Negishi Nostalgia Park” in Isogo Ward, Yokohama is known as the building most closely resembling the exterior of Poppy Hill Dormitory. This wooden Western-style mansion was built in the 1920s and has an atmosphere similar to that of Poppy Hill Dormitory in the film.
Facility Information:
- Location: 5-127 Nishi-chō, Isogo Ward, Yokohama
- Access: About 15 minutes on foot from JR Negishi Station, or by bus to “Takigashira” stop
- Viewing: Exterior only (interior of building is not open to the public)
- Free admission
The former Yanagishita residence is located on a high ground and once offered a view of Tokyo Bay. While the sea is no longer visible due to surrounding development, the building’s appearance retains the world of the film.
The Area Around Negishi Forest Park
Near Negishi Nostalgia Park is the vast Negishi Forest Park. Located on the site of a former racecourse, it is a park featuring an open grass plaza and historic structures. While not a setting in the film, it is recommended as a stop during a sacred site pilgrimage as a spot where visitors can feel the Showa atmosphere.
Fine Details Appearing in the Film
The Meaning of the International Signal Flag “U·W Flag”
The international signal flag that Umi raises every morning is a combination of two flags.
- U Flag (Uniform): “You are proceeding into danger” → by extension, “wishing for safe navigation”
- W Flag (Whiskey): “Medical assistance is required” → by extension, “wishing for your good fortune”
This flag combination expresses thoughts toward her late father and prayers for those traveling at sea. At Minatomieru Hill Park, this flag is actually displayed and has become a photo spot for movie fans.
Yokohama Details from 1963
The film incorporates fine descriptions symbolic of Yokohama in 1963 throughout.
- Construction boom ahead of the Tokyo Olympics
- Landscape of streetcars (city trams)
- Early Showa period modern architecture
- Uniforms and lifestyles of the era
- Landscape of the old shopping street
These details give the film realism and nostalgia.
Recommended Sacred Site Pilgrimage Routes
Half-Day Course (Approximately 4 hours)
- Start at Motomachi-Chukagai Station (9:00 AM)
- Minatomieru Hill Park (9:10 AM – 10:00 AM): Commemorative sign, international signal flag, observation spots
- Touring Yamashita Mansions (10:00 AM – 11:30 AM): Diplomat’s House, Bluff 18 Mansion, etc.
- Strolling Motomachi Shopping Street (11:30 AM – 12:30 PM): Lunch and shopping
- Yamashita Park (12:30 PM – 1:30 PM): Viewing the Hikawa Maru, seaside stroll
- Around Sakuragichō Station (1:30 PM – 2:00 PM): Station area scenery
Full-Day Course (Approximately 7 hours)
In addition to the half-day course:
- Negishi Nostalgia Park (3:00 PM – 4:00 PM): Viewing the former Yanagishita residence
- Negishi Forest Park (4:00 PM – 5:00 PM): Strolling
When using public transportation, it is efficient to utilize Yokohama City buses and the Minato Mirai Line.
How to Enjoy Sacred Site Pilgrimages
Enjoying the Comparison Between Film and Reality
The joy of sacred site pilgrimages lies in comparing scenes from the film with actual landscapes. It is a popular way to save film scene photos on a smartphone or tablet and photograph the same angles.
Differences in Scenery by Season
Yokohama’s streets display different faces throughout the four seasons.
- Spring: Cherry blossoms on Yamashita slopes, roses in Minatomieru Hill Park
- Summer: Blue sea and sky, lively port scenery
- Autumn: Contrast of autumn foliage with Western-style mansions
- Winter: Illuminations, port views in clear winter air
While the film is a summer story, visiting any season can reveal different attractions.
Enjoy Yokohama Cuisine Too
During sacred site pilgrimages, also savor cuisine unique to Yokohama.
- Motomachi: Long-established Western restaurants, cafes
- Chinatown: Authentic Chinese cuisine
- Around Yamashita Park: Seafood restaurants
- Sakuragichō: Minato Mirai commercial facilities
Visiting long-established restaurants that existed during the film’s era is also one of the pleasures of sacred site pilgrimages.
Access and Transportation Information
Access From Major Stations
From Tokyo:
- JR Tokaido/Yokosuka Lines to Yokohama or Sakuragichō Station (approximately 30 minutes)
- Tōyoko/Minato Mirai Lines to Motomachi-Chukagai Station (approximately 40 minutes)
From Haneda Airport:
- Keikyu Line to Yokohama Station (approximately 30 minutes)
- Limousine bus to Minato Mirai area (approximately 40 minutes)
Transportation Within the City
- Minato Mirai Line: Convenient route connecting Motomachi-Chukagai Station to Yokohama Station
- City Buses: Well-equipped routes connecting major tourist attractions
- Akaikutsu: Sightseeing bus circulating major attractions (¥100~)
- Walking: Yamashita–Motomachi–Yamashita Park area is within walking distance
Recommended Visiting Period
Weekdays: Relatively fewer tourists, allowing for leisurely strolling.
Weekends/Holidays: Lively atmosphere, but be cautious of crowds.
Periods to Avoid: Golden Week, Obon, and year-end/new year periods are very crowded.
Related Nearby Attractions
Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse
While not a film setting, this is a shopping and dining spot created from refurbished warehouses from the Meiji and Taisho periods. The atmosphere of historic structures shares common ground with the film’s world.
Nippon Yusen Hikawa Maru and Nippon Yusen History Museum
Museums where one can learn about maritime history and gain a deeper understanding of the film’s historical backdrop.
Yokohama Opening to Foreign Countries Archives
A museum where visitors can learn detailed information about Yokohama’s history. It also displays materials about Yokohama as it was in 1963.
Notes for Sacred Site Pilgrimages
Enjoy While Observing Etiquette
- Photography in residential areas: Do not speak loudly, do not enter private property
- Mansion visits: Follow facility rules, confirm whether photography is permitted
- Parks: Take trash with you, do not damage plants
- Shopping streets: Do not interfere with shop operations
For Safe Strolling
- The Yamashita area has many slopes, so comfortable shoes are recommended
- Summer has strong sunlight, so hats, umbrellas, and hydration are advised
- Utilize map apps and guidebooks
- Confirm operating hours and closed days in advance
Conclusion: Feeling Yokohama’s Charm Through “From Up on Poppy Hill”
Yokohama, which serves as the setting for “From Up on Poppy Hill,” is a charming city where the history and culture since its opening to foreign trade continue to breathe. Many of the landscapes appearing in the film have been carefully preserved and remain to show traces of that era more than 60 years later.
By visiting the actual filming locations such as Minatomieru Hill Park, Yamashita mansions, Motomachi shopping street, and Yamashita Park, one can experience the film’s world more deeply. Also not to be missed are places said to be models for the film, such as the former Yanagishita residence in Negishi Nostalgia Park.
Among Studio Ghibli works, “From Up on Poppy Hill,” set in a real location, can be said to be an ideal work for sacred site pilgrimages. The experience becomes even more enjoyable if you rewatch the film before visiting.
Yokohama, where Showa nostalgia and modern vitality coexist. Through sacred site pilgrimages of “From Up on Poppy Hill,” discover this port town’s multifaceted charm. If you actually walk the slopes where Umi and Shun walked, the emotion of the film will revive, and you will surely encounter new charm in Yokohama.
