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Kanagawa Prefecture | A Culturally Diverse Region Where Cities and the Sea Intertwine

神奈川県

 

 

Kanagawa Prefecture | A Culturally Diverse Region Where Cities and the Sea Intertwine

 

Kanagawa Prefecture offers a unique blend of convenience due to its proximity to Tokyo, rich natural beauty from both sea and mountains, and a diverse urban culture.

Home to major cities like Yokohama and Kawasaki, as well as renowned destinations such as Shonan and Hakone, Kanagawa is a region that appeals to both residents and visitors alike.

 

The capital city, Yokohama, is one of Japan’s leading port cities and has grown as a center of international exchange since its opening to foreign trade. The cityscape, where exotic charm and modernity coexist—seen in areas like the Red Brick Warehouse, Minato Mirai, and the historic Western-style homes of Yamate—makes Yokohama both a popular tourist destination and a desirable place to live.

 

In contrast, historic locations like Kamakura and Enoshima offer a fusion of ancient atmosphere and seaside charm. Kamakura is known for landmarks such as the Great Buddha and Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, and its streets are lined with traditional houses, quaint cafés, and artisan shops, inviting visitors to experience culture simply by strolling around.

 

Hakone is also a major draw, renowned as one of Japan’s top hot spring areas. Its accessibility from central Tokyo makes it a popular weekend getaway. The region boasts not only natural beauty, but also numerous museums and scenic attractions like Lake Ashi cruises, allowing visitors to enjoy both art and nature.

 

Kanagawa Prefecture strikes a perfect balance across industry, culture, tourism, and residential life. It’s a region where global perspectives and local character coexist, offering a wealth of experiences and opportunities.

 

kanagawa map

Prefectural Capital
  • Yokohama City

 

Major Cities
  • Yokohama City
  • Kawasaki City
  • Sagamihara City

 

Population
  • Approximately 9.2 million people

 

Major Tourist Attractions and Events
  • Yokohama China Town
  • Minato Mirai
  • Great Buddha of Kamakura
  • Enoshima
  • Hakone Hot Springs

 

Local Cuisine
  • Sanma-men – Yokohama-style ramen with stir-fried vegetables
  • Shūmai [Kiyōken] – steamed pork dumplings from Kiyōken
  • Kenchin-jiru, a traditional Japanese vegetable soup with miso broth

 

Craft Works
  • Hakone yosegi zaiku – Hakone parquetry
  • Kamakura-bori – Kamakura woodcarving lacquerware

 

 

 

⇒ Read Posts about Kanagawa

 

 

みなとみらい21地区。横浜港に面した近代的な都市景観が広がる。

The Minato Mirai 21 district features a modern urban landscape along Yokohama Port.

 

横浜中華街。東アジア最大規模の中華街として、国内外から観光客が訪れる。

Yokohama Chinatown, the largest Chinatown in East Asia, attracts tourists from across Japan and around the world.

 

鎌倉大仏。奈良の大仏に次ぐ規模を誇る青銅製仏像で、国宝に指定されている。

The Great Buddha of Kamakura is a bronze statue, second in size only to the Great Buddha of Nara, and is designated as a National Treasure.

 

箱根神社。芦ノ湖畔に立つ鳥居は『平和の鳥居』として知られる。

Hakone Shrine’s torii gate, located on the shore of Lake Ashi, is known as the ‘Peace Torii’.

 

江の島周辺の海。サーフィンやマリンスポーツが盛んなエリア。

The waters around Enoshima are popular for surfing and various marine sports.