Best Places to Visit in Kanagawa Prefecture | Travel Guide (2024) | Things to Do, See & Eat
Kanagawa Prefecture Travel Guide
Quick overview of Kanagawa Prefecture with our expert tips and insights. Jump to any section.
- Kanagawa Prefecture Travel Videos
- Plan Kanagawa Prefecture Trip
- Best Places To Visit In Kanagawa Prefecture
- Hotels Map Of Kanagawa Prefecture
- Tours And Activities In Kanagawa Prefecture
- Food And Drinks To Try In Kanagawa Prefecture
- Best Time To Visit Kanagawa Prefecture
- Flight Calendar For Kanagawa Prefecture
- Transportation To Kanagawa Prefecture
Welcome to Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan! Located just south of Tokyo, this vibrant region offers a perfect blend of traditional Japanese culture and modern attractions. Kanagawa is home to the iconic city of Yokohama, known for its stunning waterfront, bustling Chinatown, and the famous Yokohama Landmark Tower. Nature enthusiasts will be delighted by the breathtaking views of Mount Fuji from the shores of Lake Ashinoko in Hakone, while history buffs can explore the ancient temples and shrines in Kamakura. With its diverse range of experiences, Kanagawa Prefecture is a must-visit destination for any traveler seeking an authentic taste of Japan.
Kanagawa Prefecture Travel Videos
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Best Places To Visit in Kanagawa Prefecture
1. Yokohama : Yokohama is the second largest city in Japan and is known for its beautiful port area, Chinatown, and numerous museums. The city is also home to the famous Yokohama Landmark Tower, which offers stunning views of the city from its observation deck.
2. Kamakura : Kamakura is a small coastal town known for its numerous temples and shrines, including the famous Great Buddha of Kamakura. The town is also home to beautiful beaches and hiking trails, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
3. Hakone : Hakone is a mountainous town known for its hot springs and stunning views of Mount Fuji. Visitors can take a scenic cable car ride, visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum, or relax in one of the town's many hot springs.
4. Enoshima : Enoshima is a small island town known for its beautiful beaches and stunning views of Mount Fuji. Visitors can explore the island's numerous shrines and temples, or take a boat tour around the island.
5. Odawara : Odawara is a historic castle town known for its beautiful Odawara Castle, which dates back to the 15th century. Visitors can also explore the town's numerous museums and parks, or take a scenic hike through the nearby mountains.
6. Fujisawa : Fujisawa is a coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and surfing culture. Visitors can also explore the town's numerous shrines and temples, or take a scenic bike ride along the coast.
7. Zushi : Zushi is a small coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and stunning views of Mount Fuji. Visitors can also explore the town's numerous shrines and temples, or take a boat tour around the nearby islands.
8. Yugawara : Yugawara is a small hot spring town known for its beautiful natural scenery and relaxing hot springs. Visitors can also explore the town's numerous museums and parks, or take a scenic hike through the nearby mountains.
9. Atsugi : Atsugi is a small town known for its beautiful parks and gardens, including the famous Nanasawa Forest Park. Visitors can also explore the town's numerous museums and temples, or take a scenic bike ride through the nearby countryside.
10. Sagamihara : Sagamihara is a large city known for its beautiful parks and gardens, including the famous Sagamihara Asamizo Park. Visitors can also explore the city's numerous museums and temples, or take a scenic hike through the nearby mountains.
Hotels Map Of Kanagawa Prefecture
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Tours And Activities In Kanagawa Prefecture
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Food & Drinks To Try In Kanagawa Prefecture
1. Ramen: Kanagawa Prefecture is known for its delicious ramen. Be sure to try the local specialty, Yokohama-style ramen, which features a rich and savory pork-based broth with thin noodles and various toppings such as chashu (braised pork), menma (bamboo shoots), and nori (seaweed).
2. Yokohama Curry: Another must-try dish in Kanagawa is Yokohama curry, a unique fusion of Indian and Japanese flavors. This curry is typically thicker and sweeter than traditional Indian curry and often includes ingredients like beef, vegetables, and even fruits like apples and bananas.
3. Kamaboko: Kanagawa is famous for its production of kamaboko, a type of fish cake made from pureed white fish. This delicacy is often served as a topping for ramen or enjoyed on its own as a snack. Look out for different shapes and colors of kamaboko, as they make for an interesting and tasty experience.
4. Shirasu: As a coastal prefecture, Kanagawa offers an abundance of fresh seafood. One popular local specialty is shirasu, tiny white fish that are typically served boiled or raw as a topping for rice bowls or salads. These small fish are packed with flavor and provide a unique taste of the sea.
5. Yokohama Chinatown: While not a specific dish, a visit to Yokohama Chinatown is a must for food lovers. This vibrant neighborhood is home to numerous Chinese restaurants and street food stalls, offering a wide range of delicious treats such as xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), jianbing (Chinese crepes), and mooncakes.
6. Sake: Kanagawa Prefecture is also known for its production of high-quality sake. Take the opportunity to visit a local brewery and sample different types of sake, ranging from dry to sweet. Sake tasting is a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture and appreciate the craftsmanship behind this traditional Japanese beverage.
7. Green Tea: Kanagawa is home to the famous Hakone region, known for its picturesque landscapes and hot springs. While exploring Hakone, be sure to try the local green tea, which is grown in the region's fertile volcanic soil. Whether it's a cup of hot matcha or a refreshing iced green tea, this beverage offers a soothing and authentic taste of Japan.
8. Yokohama Craft Beer: For beer enthusiasts, Yokohama offers a thriving craft beer scene. Visit one of the many craft breweries or beer bars in the city to sample a variety of locally brewed beers. From hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts, Yokohama's craft beer scene has something for everyone.
9. Yokan: Yokan is a traditional Japanese sweet made from red bean paste, agar, and sugar. In Kanagawa Prefecture, you can find various flavors and variations of yokan, including matcha (green tea) yokan and fruit-infused yokan. These sweet treats make for a delightful dessert or snack during your visit.
10. Hakone Black Eggs: While in Hakone, don't miss the opportunity to try the famous Hakone black eggs. These eggs are boiled in hot springs, turning their shells black and giving them a unique flavor. Legend has it that eating one of these eggs will add seven years to your life, making them a popular and symbolic snack in the area.
Overall, Kanagawa Prefecture offers a diverse range of food and drink options that showcase the region's culinary traditions and local specialties. From savory ramen to sweet yokan, there is something to satisfy every palate.
Best Time To Visit Kanagawa Prefecture
The best time to visit Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these times, the weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The cherry blossoms in spring and the vibrant foliage in autumn add to the beauty of the region. Additionally, the crowds are generally smaller compared to the peak tourist season in summer, allowing visitors to enjoy the attractions without feeling overwhelmed. However, it is important to note that weather conditions can vary, so it is advisable to check the forecast before planning a trip.
Flight Calendar For Kanagawa Prefecture
Use our flight calendar to discover the Cheapest Days and Months to Book Flight to Kanagawa Prefecture.
Transportation To Kanagawa Prefecture
There are several transportation options to Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan.
1. By Air: The nearest international airport is Tokyo Haneda Airport, which is located in Tokyo but provides easy access to Kanagawa Prefecture. From the airport, you can take a train or bus to your destination in Kanagawa.
2. By Train: Kanagawa Prefecture is well-connected by train. The most convenient way to reach the prefecture is by taking a train from Tokyo. The Shinkansen (bullet train) and regular train services are available to various cities in Kanagawa, such as Yokohama, Kawasaki, and Kamakura.
3. By Bus: There are also bus services available from Tokyo and other major cities to Kanagawa Prefecture. These buses provide a more affordable option for transportation.
4. By Car: If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car and take the expressways to reach Kanagawa Prefecture. However, keep in mind that traffic can be heavy, especially during peak hours.
Once you are in Kanagawa Prefecture, there are local transportation options such as trains, buses, and taxis to help you navigate within the prefecture and reach your specific destination.