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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
