A Journey to Kamakura: Our First Trip Together

Kamakura is one of those places that feels like stepping into a different era—where history, culture, and nature blend seamlessly into an unforgettable experience. For my girlfriend and me, our first trip to Kamakura was more than just a day out; it was the beginning of many cherished memories. From walking along the shimmering coastline to capturing the legendary Enoden train, and ending the day with a new culinary adventure, our journey was nothing short of magical.

Walking by the Water: A Peaceful Start

Our adventure began with a scenic stroll along Kamakura’s coastline. The rhythmic crashing of the waves, the salty breeze in the air, and the distant view of Enoshima Island created the perfect backdrop for a romantic walk. There’s something incredibly calming about being next to the ocean, where time seems to slow down, and every step feels meaningful.

One of the first things we noticed was the unique black sand on the beach. Unlike the typical golden or white sand found on most beaches, Kamakura’s sand has a striking dark color due to its volcanic origin. The region’s geological activity, combined with the erosion of basalt and other volcanic minerals from nearby mountains, contributes to the distinctive black hue. It gives the beach an almost mystical appearance, especially when the sunlight reflects off its fine grains.

As we walked, we spotted surfers gliding across the waves, families enjoying picnics, and photographers trying to capture the essence of Kamakura’s beauty. The beach here isn’t just about sand and sea; it holds a charm that brings people together, offering a rare sense of serenity despite the occasional crowd.

The Famous Slam Dunk Train: A Nostalgic Moment

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One of the highlights of our trip was undoubtedly the Enoshima Electric Railway, better known as the Enoden train. This charming old-fashioned tram, painted in its signature green and yellow, winds its way through coastal landscapes, tunnels, and narrow streets. But for anime fans, there’s one particular spot along this route that holds legendary status—the famous railroad crossing from Slam Dunk.

For those unfamiliar, Slam Dunk is one of the most beloved basketball anime series from the ’90s. The anime’s opening sequence features the protagonist, Hanamichi Sakuragi, standing near a railroad crossing as the Enoden train passes by, with the sea in the background. This moment became an iconic scene, inspiring fans from all over the world to visit the exact spot and recreate it in their own photos.

As a fan of the anime, I couldn’t resist doing the same. With the sun casting a golden glow over the tracks, we managed to capture some incredible shots of the train passing by. The combination of nostalgia and reality blending together made this experience truly special.

Sunset Magic: The Best Time to See the Train

While the Enoden train is beautiful at any time of day, there’s something extraordinary about seeing it during sunset. The way the evening light reflects off the train’s windows, the sky painted in hues of orange and purple, and the gentle sea breeze make for a breathtaking moment.

As the sun dipped lower, the entire scene turned into a dreamlike spectacle. The train glided along the tracks, the ocean shimmering in the distance, and for a moment, it felt as if we were inside an anime ourselves. If you ever visit Kamakura, I highly recommend timing your trip so you can witness this magical sight.

Tsunami Warnings: A Reminder of Nature’s Power

While Kamakura’s coastline is stunning, it’s also a region prone to natural disasters, particularly tsunamis. Given its location along the Pacific Ring of Fire, earthquakes are not uncommon, and with them comes the potential for tsunami threats.

Throughout the coastal areas, you’ll find clearly marked tsunami evacuation signs, guiding people to higher ground in case of an emergency. Many locals are well aware of the risks and have evacuation drills in place. Visitors should also stay informed by checking for any tsunami advisories when traveling to the area. Though such occurrences are rare, it’s always best to be prepared and know the nearest evacuation routes just in case.

Korean Dinner: A Culinary First for My Girlfriend

After a day filled with walking, photography, and nostalgia, we were ready for a delicious meal. Though Kamakura is known for its local delicacies like shirasu-don (whitebait rice bowl) and matcha-flavored sweets, we decided to end the day with something different—Korean food.

We found a cozy Korean restaurant in Kamakura’s bustling streets, where the aroma of sizzling meats and spicy stews filled the air. The restaurant had a welcoming atmosphere, with warm lighting and Korean music playing in the background.

For my girlfriend, it was her first time trying soju beer—a classic Korean combination where you mix soju (a distilled rice liquor) with beer for a refreshing and slightly sweet drink. Watching her take her first sip was a moment of pure joy. Her eyes widened as she took in the flavors, and after a moment of hesitation, she nodded in approval. “It’s stronger than I expected, but I like it!” she laughed.

We enjoyed a feast of Korean BBQ, kimchi pancakes, and spicy tteokbokki (rice cakes). The balance of flavors—savory, spicy, and slightly sweet—was the perfect way to end our day.

Why Kamakura is a Must-Visit

Kamakura is more than just a tourist destination; it’s a place that carries stories, emotions, and unique experiences. Whether you’re a history buff exploring the Great Buddha (Daibutsu), a nature lover hiking through its scenic trails, or an anime fan retracing the footsteps of Slam Dunk, Kamakura has something for everyone.

For us, this trip was about making memories together. It was about the quiet moments by the ocean, the excitement of seeing a familiar anime scene come to life, and the joy of trying something new. Kamakura, with its blend of tradition and modern charm, gave us the perfect backdrop for our first adventure as a couple.

As we boarded the train back home, the city lights twinkling in the distance, we couldn’t help but smile. This was just the beginning of many more trips to come.

Author

Max
Max lives in Tokyo, where he's studying Computer Science while also exploring the world through travel. His adventures lead him to discover new cultures and experiences.