Live Your Best Lives
The Kanto region, which includes Tokyo and its surrounding areas, offers a wide range of activities. Visit Tokyo Disneyland, explore historical sites like the Meiji Shrine and Asakusa’s Sensoji Temple, and enjoy the nature of Mount Takao. Don’t miss the shopping districts of Shibuya and Harajuku, or relax in the hot springs of Hakone.
The Kanto region (also known as the Kanto region) is a large region within Japan. It encompasses the Pacific Ocean in central Honshu, Japan, and is comprised of Ibaraki, Tochigi, Gunma, Saitama, Chiba, Tokyo, and Kanagawa prefectures. Centered around the capital, Tokyo, it forms the Tokyo metropolitan area, one of Japan's three major metropolitan areas. It is Japan's most densely populated region, home to over a third of the country's population.
Subtropical monsoon climate, suitable for all seasons
The Kanto region is Japan’s political, economic, and cultural heart, with Tokyo as the capital city. Historically, it has been the center of Japan's industrial and technological development, as well as the location of many significant historical events, such as the Edo period (1603-1868) when the Tokugawa Shogunate ruled Japan.
The Kanto region is located on the eastern coast of Japan’s main island, Honshu. Tokyo, the capital, is the central hub. You can travel to the region via the Shinkansen (bullet train), local trains, metro systems, buses, taxis, or by walking within the cities themselves.
The Kanto region is accessible year-round. The best times to visit are spring (March-May) for cherry blossoms, and autumn (September-November) for the fall foliage. Summer can be crowded, especially in Tokyo, and winter provides opportunities for skiing in nearby regions like Nikko and Hakone.
The entrance fees for attractions vary. For example, Tokyo Disneyland tickets range from ¥7,400 to ¥8,200 for adults, while entry to temples like Sensoji in Asakusa is free. Tickets for most attractions can be bought online or at the venues themselves.
Booking tickets in advance is highly recommended for popular attractions like Tokyo Disneyland, museums, and special events. A few days to a week in advance should suffice, especially during peak tourist seasons.
It typically takes 3-5 days to explore the major attractions in the Kanto region, including Tokyo, Yokohama, and surrounding areas. For a more relaxed visit, a week is ideal to cover additional sights like Hakone or Nikko.
Must-see highlights in the Kanto region include Tokyo Disneyland, Meiji Shrine, the Imperial Palace, Sensoji Temple, and the shopping districts of Shibuya and Ginza. Don’t miss the views from the Tokyo Skytree and the nature at Mount Takao.
Guided tours are available for most major attractions in the Kanto region, especially in Tokyo. These tours are offered in English and Japanese, and often include audio guides for historical sites like temples and shrines.
Best viewpoints include the observation decks at Tokyo Skytree and Tokyo Tower, as well as Mount Takao for panoramic views of Tokyo. In Yokohama, the Minato Mirai waterfront offers great photo opportunities, especially at sunset.
A recommended route includes starting in Tokyo for the first few days, visiting Tokyo Disneyland, Asakusa, and the Meiji Shrine. Then, take a day trip to Yokohama, and if time permits, head to Hakone or Nikko for a mix of nature and history.
Night visits and light shows are available in places like Odaiba, where you can enjoy the Rainbow Bridge and Palette Town. Tokyo Disneyland also offers evening parades and shows. Special tours are available at places like Roppongi Hills, where you can enjoy a night view of the city skyline.
Tokyo can be very crowded, especially on weekends and during national holidays (e.g., Golden Week in May). The least crowded times are weekdays in the early morning or late evening, and during off-peak months like January and February.
Most tourist sites in the Kanto region have modern facilities, including toilets, food courts, and rest areas. Shopping malls and stations provide convenience stores, while large attractions like Disneyland have restaurants and snack shops.
Most major attractions in the Kanto region are accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, with wheelchair rentals and elevators available at many sites. Family-friendly facilities are also common, with stroller rentals and kid-friendly areas in places like Tokyo Disneyland.
Cash is widely used in Japan, though major shopping malls, restaurants, and attractions accept credit cards and mobile payments (e.g., Suica, Apple Pay). It's advisable to carry some cash, especially in smaller shops or rural areas.
Restaurants and cafes abound throughout the Kanto region. In Tokyo, you can find everything from high-end dining in Roppongi to traditional sushi bars in Tsukiji. Yokohama is known for its Chinatown and waterfront dining. In Hakone, enjoy local hot spring cuisine.
Vegetarian, vegan, and halal options are available in many parts of the Kanto region. Tokyo and Yokohama, in particular, offer diverse international cuisine and dedicated vegetarian/vegan restaurants.
Tokyo offers a range of accommodations, from luxury hotels like the Park Hyatt to budget-friendly hostels. In Yokohama, you can find hotel options in the Minato Mirai district, while Hakone offers traditional ryokan (Japanese inns) with hot springs.
Nearby attractions include Yokohama (with its waterfront and Chinatown), Nikko (known for its shrines and UNESCO World Heritage Sites), and Mount Fuji (for hiking and sightseeing). Hakone is perfect for hot springs and views of Mount Fuji.
Souvenir shops are plentiful, especially in places like Asakusa, Akihabara, and Kyoto. Typical souvenirs include traditional items like kimonos, Japanese tea sets, and handcrafted goods, as well as anime merchandise and sweets.
After visiting the Kanto region, the best options are the Shinkansen (bullet train) to other major cities like Kyoto and Osaka. Buses and local trains are also efficient for traveling to nearby areas like Nikko and Hakone.
