Kamurozaka Slope – A Pathway Through Blossoms and Tragedy
Stretching from the foot of Yamate-dori Avenue to the crest of Kirigaya-dori, Kamurozaka Slope (かむろ坂) is one of Shinagawa’s most atmospheric sloped roads. In spring, it bursts into colour as its flanking cherry trees bloom, forming a soft canopy over the pedestrian path. The slope is beloved locally and holds a place in the Shinagawa Hyakkei (100 Views of Shinagawa) for its beauty and folklore.
🌸 Cherry Blossom Splendour
Each year, Kamurozaka becomes one of Shinagawa’s best local spots for enjoying cherry blossoms in a calm, uncrowded environment. The trees line both sides of the slope for nearly 500 metres, creating a tunnel of blossoms that gently flutter onto the pavement. An annual sakura festival is sometimes held here, offering modest food stalls and community events. At night, the trees are softly lit, offering a magical nocturnal experience.
🏯 Kamurozaka – Historical Origins
The slope’s name, “Kamurozaka,” comes from a tragic Edo-period legend. It refers to a kamuro (young attendant) of a courtesan who, after her mistress took her own life out of love and grief, followed in kind. The story of Komurasaki and Shirai Gonpachi became widely known through kabuki and literature. Their tale, connected to a nearby grave and memorial temple, lends the slope a quiet poetic dignity.
🚶 Local Life and Access
Kamurozaka is located in a residential neighbourhood in Nishigotanda, which retains a nostalgic charm with local greengrocers, bakeries, and traditional houses tucked alongside apartment blocks. The slope is part of the daily lives of local schoolchildren and commuters. While not a tourist hub, its subtle elegance makes it a perfect detour for visitors looking to explore the everyday beauty of Tokyo.
🧭 Visitor Information
Address: Kamurozaka, Nishigotanda 4-chome, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo
Best season: Late March – Early April
Admission: Free
Official Info: Shinagawa City – Kamurozaka Slope
Note: As this is a residential area, please be respectful of locals and maintain a low noise level.
Where is Kamurozaka?
| what3words | ///amber.dispose.tweeted |
| latitude longitude | 35.62533 139.71167 |
| Nearest station(s) | Fudōmae Station (Tokyu Meguro Line) Gotanda Station (Yamanote and Asakusa lines) |
| Nearest public conveniences | Public toilets in nearby Rinshi no Mori Park |
Show me a sign.
It’s at the bottom of the road, where it meets the main road, on the east pavement.
Withervee says…
There isn’t much going on there. It’s quite a busy road daytime. But yes, it has a lot of cherry trees.
- Lifestyle 生活 (Seikatsu): ✔️
- Historical Significance 歴史 (Rekishi): ✔️
- Atmosphere/Natural Features 風土 (Fūdo): ✔️
Who in their right mind would vote for this?
- Local walkers
- Cherry blossom fans
- History lovers
- Quiet romantics
- Resident voters
