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| Hamanaka - The Hometown of Lupin the Third |
Tucked away in the eastern edge of Hokkaido lies a quiet coastal town that has captured the imagination of anime fans across the globe—Hamanaka (浜中町). Surrounded by untouched wetlands, rugged coastlines, and fields that roll into the horizon, this small town may seem unassuming at first glance. But for fans of Japanese pop culture, Hamanaka holds a special title: The Hometown of Monkey Punch, the legendary manga artist behind Lupin III.
The Origins of a Legend
Monkey Punch, whose real name was Kazuhiko Katō, was born in Hamanaka in 1937. It was here, in the windswept lands of eastern Hokkaido, that he nurtured his creativity and eventually gave life to one of Japan’s most iconic fictional characters: Arsène Lupin III—a witty, charming master thief inspired by Maurice Leblanc’s original French gentleman thief.
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| Arsène Lupin III, more popularly known simply as Lupin III |
Since Lupin III first appeared in manga form in 1967, the character has evolved through countless TV adaptations, movies, and specials. It remains a beloved cultural touchstone in Japan and abroad. And despite the international flair of Lupin’s escapades—from Paris to Monte Carlo—it all traces back to the quiet beginnings in Hamanaka.
Lupin Lives On in Hamanaka
Today, Hamanaka takes pride in being known as the “Hometown of Lupin III.” Visitors can find Lupin-themed installations across the town, including welcome signs and statues that serve as photo spots for fans. The Monkey Punch Collection inside the Hamanaka Town General Cultural Center offers a deeper look at the artist’s life and legacy, displaying original sketches, rare memorabilia, and personal items.
Monkey Punch Collection
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| Monkey Punch Collection |
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| Inside the Monkey Punch Collection |
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| Lupin III's Fiat 500 car inside the Monkey Punch Collection |
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| Lupin III and his gang |
The Monkey Punch Collection, located in the heart of the town, showcases the artist’s legacy with original illustrations, Lupin III memorabilia, and exhibits that trace his creative journey.
Lupin the Third Street
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| Lupin the 3rd Street |
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| Jigen's Bar |
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| Pub Fujiko |
A highlight for visitors is Lupin the Third Street, a road dedicated to the fictional thief. It features Lupin-themed signage, artwork, and photo spots that let fans walk through a living tribute to the character.Lupin the Third Festival
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| Lupin the Third Festival |
AR Stamp Rally and Interactive Fun
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| Lupin the Third AR Stamp Rally |
For those who grew up watching Lupin outsmarting inspectors and stealing hearts, walking through the streets of Hamanaka feels like tracing the roots of a legend. The town has managed to strike a balance between preserving its rustic charm and celebrating its unique contribution to global pop culture.
Other Lupin the Third Spots in Hamanaka
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| Hamanaka Station |
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| Izakaya Goemon |
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| Chanai Station |
Team Nicerio visits Hamanaka
My family and I visited the town of Hamanaka for the first time on September 18, 2023, during the third day of our “3-Day Respect for the Aged Road Trip.” This visit also marked my 686th day in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme.
As a big fan of Lupin III, I had long wanted to visit Hamanaka—the hometown of Monkey Punch and the fictional birthplace of Lupin himself. It was a memorable experience to set foot in the town where it all began, finally. However, I felt that there were only a few spots actually to see and take photos of. Most of the themed sites were abandoned houses with renovated facades featuring Lupin III designs. I hope that in the future, more attractions will be developed—something that can truly draw fans and make them feel excited to visit and explore the world of Lupin in a more immersive way.
Why visit Hamanaka?
Hamanaka, a quiet coastal town in eastern Hokkaido, is best known as the hometown of Monkey Punch, the creator of the globally beloved manga and anime series Lupin III. Though small and remote, Hamanaka has become a meaningful destination for fans of the master thief, offering a glimpse into the birthplace of one of Japan’s most iconic pop culture figures.
Visitors can explore Lupin-themed landmarks scattered throughout the town, including welcome signs and a dedicated Monkey Punch Memorial Room that showcases original artwork and memorabilia. Beyond its cultural connection, Hamanaka’s peaceful setting—surrounded by wetlands and rugged coastlines—offers insight into the environment that may have inspired Monkey Punch’s early creativity. For fans of Lupin III, a visit to Hamanaka is more than just a trip; it’s a chance to trace the roots of a legendary character in the very place where it all began.
Getting to Hamanaka
The best way to explore Hamanaka is by rental car, as it gives you the flexibility to visit various parts of the town that are difficult to reach—or not accessible at all—by public transportation.
However, if you choose to travel by public transport, Hamanaka can be accessed by train via two stations on the JR Nemuro Line (Hanasaki Line): Chanai Station and Hamanaka Station.
The town also operates a local bus service, which runs from Kiritappu Onsen Yuyu, passing through Biwase and Chiruppu, and ending at Nenohi Park (Ayamegahara) in neighboring Akkeshi Town.
From Nenohi Park (Ayamegahara), you can transfer to the Kushiro Bus “Akkeshi–Kushiro Line,” although note that only the first morning bus stops at Ayamegahara.
You can check out the updated timetable and fare on the official website of the town. Here's the LINK.
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.jpg "Team Nicerio visits Hamanaka")
.jpg "Team Nicerio visits Hamanaka")
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