Kanagawa

Introducing Kanagawa

　　Kanagawa Prefecture is located in central Honshu, Japan, adjacent to Tokyo and bordered by Tokyo Bay and Sagami Bay to the south. The prefecture boasts three major commercial ports: Yokohama, Kawasaki, and Yokosuka. Yokohama is the largest. The prefecture also boasts a well-developed education sector. It is a vibrant region that leads Japan's economy. With its diverse natural environment, encompassing mountains, rivers, and oceans, each region has its own distinct history and rich local customs and culture.

Central Japan boasts the Sagami River, known as the "Mother River of Kanagawa," as well as historic tourist destinations like the historic city of Kamakura, the hot spring city of Hakone, and Odawara, a former castle town (a town that developed around a feudal lord's residence). The southern region boasts the beautiful coastline of Shonan and the Miura Peninsula, while the western region boasts the northern mountains of the Tanzawa Mountains.

It can be seen that Kanagawa has both rich natural resources and a futuristic city that showcases trendy trends and has a colorful style.

Climate and best time to travel

Kanagawa Prefecture is influenced by the Pacific warm current, and the temperature is comfortable all year round. It is suitable for tourism in all four seasons, but spring and autumn are the best.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Lake Ashi

Located in Hakone Town, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa Prefecture, this volcanic lake is part of Mount Hakone. Formed approximately 3,000 years ago, it is the largest lake in Kanagawa Prefecture. The ferry on Lake Ashi is named after its design, which resembles a pirate ship. In addition to pirate ships, the ferry also resembles a British warship.

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine

A shrine dedicated to Hachiman-gami in Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan. In 1063 (Kōpei 6), the year after the Battle of the Nine Years Campaign, Minamoto no Yoriyoshi petitioned Iwashimizu Hachiman-gami in Yamashiro Province (Kyoto Prefecture) to establish Hachiman-gami at Tsurugaoka, Yui-godō, Kamakura. In 1180 (Jishō 4), Minamoto no Yoritomo ascended to the throne of Kamakura and relocated the shrine to its present location, naming it Tsurugaoka Wakamiya. Hachiman-gami became the Minamoto clan's patron saint. In 1191 (Kenkyu 2), Hachiman-gami caught fire, and the shogunate rebuilt the main shrine on a hill behind Wakamiya and renovated Wakamiya. Thereafter, Hachiman-gami was revered as the guardian deity of the military clan.

Kamakura High School

Many people believe this is the prototype of Shohoku High School in the movie "Slam Dunk." Near Kamakura High School, the prototype of Ryonan High School, is Kamakura High School Mae Station, which offers beautiful sea views.

Recommended play time: 2-3 days

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Most Popular FAQs for Kanagawa

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Kanagawa is a prefecture in Japan with a rich history as a gateway to international trade and cultural exchange. Cities like Yokohama played key roles in modernizing Japan during the Meiji era, while Kamakura served as the political center in medieval times. It is known for its cultural landmarks, scenic beauty, and hot springs.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Kanagawa Prefecture is south of Tokyo. Major cities like Yokohama and Kamakura are accessible via JR trains, Shinkansen, and private rail lines. Local buses and taxis connect city attractions. Walking is convenient in compact districts like Chinatown and temple areas.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

• Most attractions: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; some shops and restaurants open later.
• Best times: spring (March–May) for cherry blossoms, autumn (October–November) for foliage.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

• Sankeien Garden: around ¥700–¥1,000, tickets available online or at the entrance.
• Hakone museums: ¥1,000–¥2,000, usually purchasable at the site or online.
• Many temples and outdoor attractions are free.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Advance booking is recommended for Hakone museums and certain seasonal events. For most attractions, tickets can be purchased on-site.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

• Yokohama: 1–2 days for main attractions.
• Kamakura: half-day to full day.
• Hakone: 1–2 days for hot springs, museums, and sightseeing.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Yokohama Chinatown
• Red Brick Warehouses
• Sankeien Garden
• Great Buddha of Kamakura
• Hakone Open-Air Museum
• Owakudani Valley
• Shonan Beach

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours and audio guides are available in English, Japanese, Chinese, and occasionally other languages at major attractions like Sankeien Garden and Hakone museums.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Cosmo Clock 21 Ferris wheel in Yokohama
• Owakudani Valley in Hakone
• Enoshima Island coastline
• Hase-dera Temple in Kamakura
• Red Brick Warehouses waterfront area

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start in Yokohama (Chinatown, Red Brick Warehouses, Ferris wheel), then head to Kamakura (Great Buddha, temples), and finish with Hakone for nature, hot springs, and Mount Fuji views.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

• Yokohama: night illuminations at Red Brick Warehouses and Minato Mirai area.
• Special seasonal light shows during Christmas and summer festivals.
• Hakone: some evening hot spring experiences are available.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Weekends, holidays, and cherry blossom/Golden Week periods are crowded. Weekdays in spring and autumn are quieter.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

• Public toilets and convenience stores widely available.
• Restaurants, cafes, and souvenir shops near major attractions.
• Rest areas in parks and gardens like Sankeien and Hakone.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Most urban attractions are accessible. Temples and mountain trails may have uneven paths; wheelchairs may require assistance.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

• Cash is common, especially in smaller shops and temples.
• Credit cards and mobile payments (Suica, Pasmo, PayPay) are widely accepted in urban areas.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Yokohama Chinatown: Chinese restaurants and street food stalls
• Kamakura: local Japanese cafes and noodle shops
• Hakone: traditional ryokan dining and cafes near stations

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at many cafes and temples; halal options exist but are limited, especially outside major cities.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Yokohama: business hotels, luxury hotels, and guesthouses
• Kamakura: guesthouses and small hotels
• Hakone: ryokans, onsen resorts, and hotels near Hakone-Yumoto Station

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Mount Fuji views from Hakone
• Enoshima Island and Shonan Beach
• Odawara Castle

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

• Japanese sweets and snacks
• Traditional crafts and local art
• Hakone woodcrafts and onsen goods
• Chinatown souvenirs in Yokohama

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• JR trains and private rail lines connect Kanagawa cities to Tokyo and other prefectures.
• Buses and taxis are convenient for local travel.
• Car rentals for Hakone and coastal areas allow flexible sightseeing.