About Kanagawa
Kanagawa Prefecture, nestled between Tokyo and the Pacific Ocean, offers a captivating blend of urban energy, coastal charm, and historical depth. It's home to Yokohama, Japan's vibrant second-largest city, famous for its historic port, sprawling Chinatown, and the futuristic Minato Mirai waterfront with its iconic Ferris wheel and museums. Just south lies the ancient capital of Kamakura, where serene temples like the Great Buddha (Kotoku-in) and the bamboo groves of Hokoku-ji Temple transport visitors back to the samurai era. The prefecture's natural beauty shines along the Miura Peninsula's rugged coastline and in the hot spring resorts of Hakone, part of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, offering stunning views of Mount Fuji. From the trendy beaches of Enoshima and the Shonan coast, popular with surfers, to the historic foreign settlement in Yamate, Kanagawa provides a diverse and accessible escape from Tokyo's intensity, showcasing Japan's ability to harmonize rapid modernity with deep tradition.
Things to do in Kanagawa
Yokosuka Adventure: Explore Uninhabited Island
Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan
Mount Fuji Private Tour By Car With Pick Up From Tokyo
Tokyo, Kanto
Hiking Tour in Enoshima with a Local Guide
Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan
Private Tour to Kamakura and Enoshima in Spanish
Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan
Shonan: Learn Calligraphy from Last Master of 'Hisseki-jutsu' Art
Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan
Yokosuka: Guided Island Tour to Sarushima’s Forgotten Fort
Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan
Kamakura Cherry Blossom Full Day Walking Tour with a Local Guide
Tokyo, Kanto
Easy to Make Healthy Bento Class in Sagamihara
Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan
Food Sample Making Experience with Professionals in Kanagawa
Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan
Traditional Yosegi Coaster Making
Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan
Private Japanese Cooking Experience in Hadano City
Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan
Yakitori Tour
Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan
Private Afuri Shrine Pilgrimage Overnight Stay in Kanagawa
Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan
Kamakura & Shonan Night Izakaya Bar Hopping Tour
Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecture
Battleship Mikasa Guided Tour: History of the Russo-Japanese War
Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan
Travel Tips for Kanagawa
Getting Around
Kanagawa is seamlessly connected by Japan Railways (JR) lines, notably the JR Yokosuka and JR Tokaido lines linking Tokyo to Yokohama, Kamakura, and beyond. The private Odakyu Railway provides access to Hakone (including the Romancecar limited express). Within cities, subways (Yokohama Municipal Subway), buses, and the Enoshima Electric Railway (Enoden) along the coast are efficient. IC cards (Suica, Pasmo) are universally accepted. Taxis are plentiful but expensive. Renting a car is useful for exploring Hakone's mountainous areas but unnecessary for major cities. Popular apps include Google Maps, Japan Travel by Navitime, and Japan Official Travel App.
Best Time To Visit
Late March to early April for cherry blossoms, especially in Kamakura and along Yokohama's Sankeien Garden. October to November for pleasant autumn weather and vibrant fall foliage in Hakone and Kamakura's temples. May and June can be nice but are part of the rainy season (tsuyu). Summer (July-August) is hot and humid but lively with beach culture in Enoshima/Shonan and fireworks festivals. Winter is mild, ideal for onsen (hot springs) in Hakone with fewer crowds.
Local Customs
Standard Japanese etiquette applies. Remove shoes when entering temples, traditional inns (ryokan), and some restaurants. Be quiet and respectful in temples and shrines. Bathing etiquette in onsen (communal hot springs) requires washing thoroughly before entering the bath and not wearing swimsuits. Tipping is not customary and can cause confusion. When giving or receiving items, use both hands as a sign of respect. While casual dress is acceptable in most areas, avoid overly revealing clothing at religious sites.
Safety Information
Kanagawa is very safe with low crime rates. Standard precautions against petty theft in crowded areas like Yokohama Station or Kamakura's tourist sites are advised. Be cautious when swimming at Shonan beaches due to strong currents; heed lifeguard warnings. In Hakone, stay on marked trails when hiking near volcanic areas. Scams are rare, but be wary of overly persistent touts in nightlife districts like Kannai in Yokohama. Natural disaster awareness is key: know tsunami evacuation routes in coastal areas and earthquake safety procedures.
Health Information
Kanagawa has excellent medical facilities, especially in Yokohama. Major hospitals like Yokohama City University Medical Center and Kanagawa Prefectural Cardiovascular and Respiratory Center have international patient services. No specific vaccinations are required beyond routine travel vaccines. Tap water is safe to drink. Be aware of pollen allergies (kafunsho) in spring. Travelers should ensure they have comprehensive health insurance, as medical costs can be high. Pharmacies (yakkyoku) are widely available, but bring a sufficient supply of any prescription medications.
Languages Spoken
Japanese
Quick Facts
Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)
¥
¥
Timezone
Asia/Tokyo +09:00 (GMT)
Calling Code
+81
Electricity
Driving Side
Left
Population
9.2 million
Area
2415.83 km²
Government
Prefectural government with a Governor and elected assembly
ISO Code
14