Kanagawa

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Kanagawa

Located close to Tokyo, Kanagawa Prefecture is one of the must-visit destinations for tourists. The prefecture offers a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity, making it a charming destination for travelers.

Kanagawa is rich in culture, and you can see this reflected in a variety of attractions, ranging from historic landmarks to contemporary marvels. Kanagawa is quite popular among tourists, with Kamakura and Hakone being the two most popular destinations.

Yokohama, Kanagawa's largest city, is home to the iconic Yokohama Landmark Tower and the historic Sankeien Garden, which showcases the region's cultural tapestry. Beyond the urban landscape, Hakone, a popular hot spring town, has the beautiful Lake Ashi and the Hakone Open Air Museum, which provide a quiet retreat amidst the beauty of nature. Enoshima Island, dotted with temples and beaches, adds a touch of coastal charm to Kanagawa's appeal.

Get to Know Kanagawa

Take a tour of this destination's highlights

Travel Tips for Kanagawa

What you need to know before traveling here

Getting Around Kanagawa

A guide to Kanagawa's local transportation

Railway

Subway

Monorail

Ferry Route

Bus

Kanagawa Prefecture has an extensive and well-connected railway network that makes it even easier for tourists to travel around. Major railway operators include East Japan Railway (JR East), Central Japan Railway (JR Central), Keikyu Corporation, Odakyu Electric Railway, Sagami Railway (Sotetsu), Tokyu Corporation, and Keio Corporation.

JR East and JR Central offer high-speed Shinkansen services, connecting travelers to destinations across Japan. Keikyu and Odakyu lines are integral for commuting within Kanagawa and accessing popular spots like Yokohama and Hakone. The Sagami Railway, Tokyu, and Keio lines further enhance the prefecture's connectivity, ensuring convenient travel for both locals and visitors exploring the diverse attractions of Kanagawa.

If you take the Odakyu Romancecar, a limited express train, provides travelers with a luxurious journey to Hakone, you can complete the journey with panoramic views of Mount Fuji.

Practical Tips for Kanagawa

Things to prepare and best way to visit

What are the top tourist attractions in Kanagawa?

Must-visit spots include Yokohama's Chinatown, the historic Kamakura with its Great Buddha, Cup Noodles Museum in Yokohama, Yamashita Park, Fujiko F. Fujio Museum for the Doraemon lovers, Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse, Hakone Shrine, and the enchanting Hakone hot springs. Each destination showcases unique facets of Kanagawa's cultural and natural beauty.

What to do in Kanagawa Prefecture?

Kanagawa Prefecture offers a wide range of activities and events, making it a dynamic destination for travelers. Stroll through the futuristic Minato Mirai district in Yokohama, where modern skyscrapers meet the waterfront. Visit landmarks like the Yokohama Landmark Tower, shop at the Red Brick Warehouse, and enjoy panoramic views from the Cosmo Clock 21 Ferris wheel. The area comes alive at night with illuminated cityscapes and vibrant entertainment options.

If you're interested in culture, you can visit Kamakura, home to the iconic Great Buddha at Kotokuin Temple. Explore the historic Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, wander through traditional Komachi-dori Street with charming shops, and experience a traditional tea ceremony in this culturally significant city.

There are still lots of interesting places and activities that you can enjoy at Kanagawa. Add this prefecture to your travel itinerary now!

How long is the distance from Tokyo to Kanagawa?

The travel time from Tokyo to Kanagawa depends on the specific destination within the prefecture. Generally, it takes around 30 minutes to 1 hour by train, making it an easily accessible and ideal day-trip destination from Tokyo.

What is the nearest international airport to Kanagawa?

Narita International Airport and Haneda International Airport are the nearest international airports to Kanagawa. Both airports provide convenient access to the prefecture, with various transportation options available.

What food is Kanagawa known for?

When you visit Kanagawa, don't forget to try the prefecture's signature "Shirasu" dish, especially in coastal areas like Kamakura and Enoshima. Many restaurants serve "Shirasu-don," a bowl of rice topped with fresh shirasu.

Another culinary gem of Kanagawa is "Kamaboko," a traditional Japanese fish cake that comes in various shapes and flavors. often enjoyed as a standalone snack or as an accompaniment to meals. The process of making kamaboko involves steaming and then slicing a fish paste mixture into distinctive shapes. Travelers can explore local markets and shops to savor different famous food.