Kanagawa Prefecture is right next to Tokyo, making it a super-convenient spot, with a wide variety of attractions. Each area has its own unique charm — from the nostalgic port town vibe of Yokohama and the exotic atmosphere of Chinatown, to the rich history and culture of Kamakura, and the relaxing hot springs of Hakone. Don't miss the beautiful beaches of Shonan or the natural beauty of the Miura Peninsula either!

Foodies will also love Kanagawa, with authentic Chinese cuisine in Yokohama's Chinatown, cozy café hopping in Kamakura, and fresh seafood around Enoshima. Plus, places like Hakone and Yugawara offer the perfect mix of sightseeing and relaxing in classic hot spring towns.

In spring, people flock to Kamakura's Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine and Hasedera Temple to enjoy the cherry blossoms. Summer is all about hitting the beaches in Shonan or trying out marine sports around Enoshima. Come fall, Hakone's stunning autumn leaves steal the show. And in winter, it's hard to beat the magical holiday lights in Yokohama or a relaxing soak in Hakone's hot springs.

Must-see spots in Kanagawa include the Yokohama Landmark Tower, the Cup Noodles Museum, the Great Buddha of Kamakura, and the historic Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine.

Kanagawa is full of places where you can really soak in its rich history and culture. In Kamakura, once the seat of power under Minamoto no Yoritomo's Kamakura Shogunate, you'll find countless historic temples and shrines. Highlights include the aforementioned Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine and the Great Buddha of Kamakura, as well as beautiful temples like Kenchoji and Engakuji.

In Yokohama, you can step back in time at the Red Brick Warehouses and explore the charming Western-style houses in the Yamate area, reminders of the city's early days after opening to international trade. In Hakone, you'll not only find centuries-old hot springs, but also cultural gems like the Hakone Open-Air Museum and the Venetian Glass Museum.

Kanagawa is home to many popular hot spring resorts perfect for relaxation. Hakone Onsen is a standout, offering a range of accommodations where you can unwind in natural hot springs while enjoying the charm of the hot spring town and surrounding nature.

Yugawara Onsen is another favorite, where you can relax and rejuvenate in beautiful natural surroundings. There are also plenty of day-use hot spring facilities, making it easy to enjoy a quick, refreshing soak whenever you need it.

Kanagawa's food scene is diverse and delicious. In Yokohama Chinatown, you can enjoy authentic Chinese dishes. Kamakura offers charming cafés and restaurants where you can taste dishes made with local vegetables, as well as traditional Japanese sweets. In Enoshima, fresh seafood is a must-try, with dishes that showcase the bounty of the ocean.

And don't forget about the sweets! From Western-style pastries in Yokohama to traditional Japanese confections in Kamakura, there's something to satisfy every sweet tooth.

To Yokohama
Yokohama offers a wide range of experiences, from shopping and sightseeing to dining. You can easily reach Yokohama from Tokyo in about 30 minutes by taking the JR Tokaido Line or the Keihin-Tohoku Line. Alternatively, you can use the Tokyu Toyoko Line or the Minatomirai Line for convenient access from Shibuya or Shinjuku.

To Hakone and Yugawara
Hakone is famous for its hot springs and beautiful natural scenery. If you're traveling from Shinjuku Station, you can take the Odakyu Romancecar, which will get you to Hakone Yumoto Station in about 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take the JR Tokaido Line from Tokyo Station and reach Yugawara Station in about 1.5 hours. Yugawara is also a popular hot spring destination.

To Kamakura and Enoshima
Kamakura, known for its historical temples and shrines, offers a glimpse of Japan's old-world charm. You can reach Kamakura from Tokyo Station in about 1 hour via the JR Yokosuka Line. To get to Enoshima, take the JR Tokaido Line to Fujisawa Station and transfer to the Enoshima Electric Railway for about 1.5 hours of travel. Enoshima is a popular beach resort, offering stunning coastal views.

For specific routes and timetables, you can use the convenient LIVE JAPAN Route Search.

To make your Kanagawa trip even better, we recommend using the Hakone Freepass or the Enoshima-Kamakura Freepass. These passes make it easy to get to popular attractions and allow you to explore Kanagawa efficiently. Take advantage of these great deals and enjoy all the amazing sights and experiences Kanagawa has to offer!

There are also various JR passes available that offer great value for your trip. Be sure to check them out and find the one that best suits your travel needs!

Spring in Kanagawa is mild, with average temperatures around 10°C (50°F) in March, rising to about 17–19°C (63–66°F) in April and May. During the day, a light jacket or cardigan should be enough, but it can still get chilly in the mornings and evenings, so having a thin coat or scarf is a good idea. The region is also home to many famous cherry blossom spots, making it the perfect time to enjoy the beauty of spring.

Summer in Kanagawa can be very hot, with average temperatures around 28–29°C (82–84°F), and highs sometimes exceeding 35°C (95°F). Humidity is also high, so it’s important to take precautions against heatstroke. Dress lightly and be sure to stay hydrated throughout the day.

Autumn in Kanagawa brings cooler, more comfortable weather. In September, the average temperature is around 26°C (79°F), dropping to about 14°C (57°F) in November. However, in recent years, September has seen lingering heat, so it's important to be prepared for temperature fluctuations during the day. By mid-October, the autumn breeze becomes pleasant, making it the perfect time to enjoy the stunning fall foliage.

The average temperature in Kanagawa during winter is around 8°C (46°F). You'll need a warm coat or down jacket, along with gloves and a scarf to stay comfortable. Nights can be especially cold, so be sure to bundle up. Many indoor places are well-heated, so wearing layers that let you adjust to temperature changes is a good idea.

The Hakone and Odawara Area is a region where the charm of hot springs meets historic landmarks. You can visit attractions like Hakone Yumoto Onsen, Owakudani, and Odawara Castle, making it an excellent destination for both relaxation and sightseeing.

Hakone Yumoto Onsen, sourced from the slopes of Mount Yusaka, has a 1,200-year history and is known as the gateway to the Hakone hot springs. While there are many ryokan (traditional inns) and hot spring facilities, there are also plenty of day-use hot springs, making it easy to enjoy the relaxing waters even if you're just visiting for the day.

Owakudani is an area known for its active volcanic activity, where you can see the rising volcanic steam up close. It's also famous for its 'black eggs,' which are said to extend your life if you eat them.

Lake Ashi is a beautiful lake in Hakone, where you can enjoy sightseeing cruises and boat rides. From the lakeside, you can also catch a stunning view of Mount Fuji, and the scenery changes with the seasons, offering something special year-round.

Odawara Castle is famous as the residence of the Hojo clan, a prominent samurai family from the Sengoku period. From the castle keep, you can get a panoramic view of Odawara city and immerse yourself in its rich history. The castle also houses a museum, providing a chance to explore the area's history and culture.

The Kamakura and Shonan Area is a region where history, nature, and the sea all come together. It's home to popular attractions like the Great Buddha of Kamakura, Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, and Enoshima. Places like Hase-dera Temple and Yuigahama Beach offer beautiful scenery throughout the year, making them popular with visitors.

The Great Buddha of Kamakura, officially known as the Amida Buddha at Kotoku-in Temple, is a symbol of Kamakura. You can even enter the inside of the statue, allowing you to experience its immense scale up close.

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine is a prominent shrine in Kamakura, founded by Minamoto no Yoritomo. The grounds are expansive and famous for their beautiful cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant fall leaves. During the New Year's visit and festival seasons, the shrine becomes busy with worshippers.

Hase-dera Temple is known for its beautiful gardens and Kannon Hall, and it's especially well-known as a spot to see hydrangeas in bloom. From the observation deck, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Kamakura's streets and the ocean.

Yuigahama Beach is a popular seaside spot in Kamakura, attracting beachgoers and surfers in the summer. Along the coastline, you'll find plenty of cafes and restaurants, where you can relax and enjoy the sea breeze.

Enoshima is a top tourist destination in the Shonan area, home to points of interest like the Enoshima Sea Candle observation tower and Enoshima Shrine. The entire island is a popular sightseeing spot, with plenty of seafood restaurants and souvenir shops.

Nearby, you'll also find the New Enoshima Aquarium, which is especially popular with families.

Yokohama is a vibrant city known for its charm as a port town and international atmosphere. Popular sights in the area include the Red Brick Warehouse and the Landmark Tower in the Minato Mirai 21 district. There are also many places where you can enjoy diverse cultures and delicious cuisine, like Chinatown and Yamashita Park, making it a favorite spot for tourists.

The Red Brick Warehouse is a shopping mall housed in a historic building, featuring numerous shops, cafés, and restaurants. The venue also hosts seasonal events, with the Christmas market being particularly popular.

Minato Mirai 21 is a futuristic area lined with skyscrapers, home to attractions like the Landmark Tower and Cosmo World. The nighttime views are stunning, making it a popular spot for dates.

Yokohama Chinatown is one of the largest in Japan, lined with numerous Chinese restaurants and shops. You can enjoy authentic Chinese cuisine, and food lovers will especially enjoy strolling around and trying various street foods.

Yamashita Park is a spacious park facing Yokohama Harbor, perfect for a stroll or a picnic. You'll also find tourist ships including the Hikawa Maru docked here, offering a relaxing atmosphere where you can enjoy the sea breeze.

Shirasu Don (Shirasu Rice Bowl)
A popular dish in the Shonan area, especially in Kamakura and Enoshima, shirasu don features fresh, freshly caught young anchovies piled high on top of rice. It's a must-try for seafood lovers!

Dim Sum in Yokohama Chinatown
Yokohama Chinatown, one of the largest in Japan, offers a variety of delicious dim sum. You can enjoy authentic Chinese flavors right in the heart of this bustling area.

Tuna from Misaki
Don't miss out on the fresh tuna caught at Misaki Harbor on the Miura Peninsula. There are many restaurants around the harbor serving fresh tuna sashimi and rice bowls, making it a treat for seafood enthusiasts.

Onsen Manju from Yugawara
Yugawara Onsen is famous for its soft, sweet onsen manju (steamed buns filled with red bean paste). Strolling through the hot spring town while enjoying one of these delicious treats is a great way to take in the local atmosphere.

Hayama Beef
Hayama beef, a brand of beef raised in Hayama, Kanagawa, is known for its tenderness and juiciness. Whether as steak or yakiniku (Japanese BBQ), it's a must-try for meat lovers.

Yokohama Harbour
Yokohama Harbour is a popular Western-style pastry featuring a moist chestnut cream filling inside a baked treat shaped like a ship. Beloved for many years, this simple yet delicious sweet is enjoyed by people of all ages.

Hato Sabure
Hato Sabure is a popular cookie from the long-established Japanese sweets shop Toshimaya in Kamakura. Shaped like a dove, these butter-flavored sable cookies have a crispy texture and a gentle sweetness. It's a must-try souvenir when visiting Kamakura.

Kiyoken Shumai
Kiyoken Shumai is a famous dish representing Yokohama's Chinese cuisine. Made with pork and scallops, these juicy dumplings are perfect as a gift or for a packed lunch.

Hakone Yosegi Zaiku
Hakone Yosegi Zaiku is a traditional craft from Hakone, consisting of beautiful geometric patterns on wooden items. These practical yet stunning pieces, such as small boxes and puzzle boxes, reflect the warmth of handmade craftsmanship and make excellent gifts.

Enoshima Tako Senbei
Enoshima Tako Senbei is a popular snack souvenir from Enoshima. Made with whole fresh octopus baked into crispy rice crackers, these senbei are fragrant and rich in flavor.

Kanagawa is home to a wide range of attractions that can be enjoyed no matter the season. When planning your trip, be sure to consider the events and activities that take place during the season in which you'll be visiting!

(Note: The information in this article is accurate as of April 2025. Please check official websites for the latest details.)