Kamakura Deploys AI Cameras to Manage Slam Dunk Tourism Crowds

A railway crossing near Kamakurakokomae Station in Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecture, has become a major tourist draw because of its association with the popular manga and anime series Slam Dunk. The influx of visitors seeking photos at the recognizable seaside location has also brought unsafe road behavior, blocked access and disruption for residents, highlighting Japan’s broader struggle with overtourism at cultural and pop-culture landmarks.

Kamakura has recently deployed 12 AI-enabled cameras around the area to count visitors in real time and analyze rule-breaking behavior. Crowd conditions are updated every three minutes and published on the municipal government’s website. Officials plan to use the data to improve the timing and placement of security personnel and visitor guidance, aiming to preserve tourism benefits while reducing safety risks and the burden on the local community.