Kanagawa Prefecture, located near Tokyo, offers many varied tourist attractions. Yokohama, the prefectural capital, is famous for its modern Minato Mirai 21 district and Chinatown. Kamakura is renowned for its historic temples and the Great Buddha. Hakone is a popular destination for its hot springs and views of Mount Fuji. The Shonan region attracts beach and water sports enthusiasts. Kanagawa also offers cultural activities, festivals, museums, and rich local cuisine.
1. Yokohama
- Minato Mirai 21: A futuristic seaside district with skyscrapers, shopping centers, museums, and an amusement park (Cosmo World).
- Chinatown: Japan’s largest Chinatown, known for its authentic Chinese cuisine, colorful temples and festivities.
- Yokohama Art Museum: A diverse collection of modern and contemporary art.
- Sankeien Garden: A traditional Japanese garden with historic buildings moved from Kyoto and Kamakura.
- Landmark Tower: One of the tallest buildings in Japan with a panoramic view from its observatory.
2. Kamakura
- Great Buddha (Daibutsu): A massive bronze statue of Amida Buddha, dating from the 13th century.
- Hasedera Temple: Known for its beautiful gardens and large statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy.
- Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine: An important Shinto shrine with beautiful gardens and seasonal festivals.
- Yuigahama Beach: A popular spot for sunbathing and water sports.
3. Hakone
- Hot Springs (Onsen): Many ryokan (traditional inns) offering hot spring baths.
- Lake Ashi: Scenic cruises with views of Mount Fuji on a clear day.
- Hakone Open-Air Museum: An open-air sculpture museum with works by world-renowned artists.
- Owakudani: A volcanic valley with sulfur fumaroles and hot springs. Black eggs cooked in the springs are a local specialty.
- Hakone Shrine: A shrine located on the shore of Lake Ashi, famous for its floating torii.
4. Shonan
- Shonan Beach: Known for its surf-friendly waves and magnificent views of Mount Fuji.
- Enoshima: A small island accessible by bridge, with a shrine, botanical gardens and sea caves.
5. Culture and Festivals
- Yokohama Fireworks Festival: A spectacular annual event with fireworks over Yokohama Bay.
- Kamakura Matsuri: Various traditional festivals, including street dances, processions and horseback archery competitions.
- Hakone Daimyo Gyoretsu Festival: A colorful historical re-enactment of a parade of feudal lords.
6. Gastronomy
- Yokohama Ramen: Try Iekei Ramen, a local specialty with a thick, rich broth.
- Shirasu: Small white fish, often served raw or cooked, a specialty of the Shonan region.
- Kaiseki Ryori: A traditional Japanese multi-course meal, often served in Hakone ryokan.
Kanagawa Prefecture offers a unique combination of modernity, historical culture, nature, and culinary pleasures, making it an essential destination for visitors to Japan. For more information and details on upcoming activities and events, it is recommended to check the official Kanagawa Tourism website.
For more information, visit the official website Kanagawa Tourism.
