A Guide to Living in Kanagawa Prefecture

Kanagawa Prefecture (神奈川県) is a popular place for Japanese residents to live if they want to be close to Tokyo. Let’s see how life is in Kanagawa and the best places to live and see in this Prefecture.

During the Kamakura period, Kanagawa was Japan’s economic and political center. Currently, with an estimated population of 9.2 million in January 2023, it is Japan’s second-most populated prefecture and borders Tokyo, Yamanashi, and Shizuoka Prefectures.

This beautiful prefecture of Kanagawa may seem like an “urban jungle” to visitors. However, looking past the tall buildings, you’ll see a great balance of urbanity with beautiful nature and historic towns.

As the sight of Commodore Perry’s landing in 1853, Kanagawa also offers a beautiful combination of foreign and Japanese history. Traditional sites such as the Great Buddha of Kamakura co-exist with the large urban hub of Yokohama and Kawasaki. Aside from its cultural significance, Kanagawa is a popular site for a romantic getaway, as views from Hakone and Enoshima are enough to charm anyone.

Compared to Saitama and Chiba, the cost of living in Kanagawa can be similar to that of Tokyo, especially in Yokohama. Depending on the distance and size, the average cost of rent for a single person is ￥70,000. This makes Kanagawa a great place for people looking for a cultural fusion between modernity and tradition.

Where to Live in Kanagawa

As a popular tourist destination, residents will find transferring between Kanagawa and Tokyo relatively easy. Most major stations in Kanagawa have good connectivity with the popular JR and subway lines for transportation. Moreover, there are many beautiful neighborhoods to choose from that offer an easy escape to the beach, accessibility to onsens, and even great food.

Kawasaki

Kawasaki City is an industrial and commercial hub in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan. It lies between Tokyo and Yokohama and is part of the Greater Tokyo Area. As per the 2020 census, the city’s population was 1,538,262.

The city is famous for its thriving economy, comprising heavy industries, manufacturing, and technology companies. It is home to several well-known Japanese corporations, such as Kawasaki Heavy Industries and Toshiba.

Kawasaki City has 7 wards: Saiwai, Nakahara, Takatsu, Miyamae, Asao, and Aso. Each ward has its unique attractions, landmarks, and features.

Some of the popular attractions in Kawasaki City are:

1. Kawasaki Daishi: A famous Buddhist temple founded in 1128, known for its five-story pagoda and the annual Daruma Doll Festival.
2. Nihon Minka-en: An open-air museum showcasing traditional Japanese architecture, particularly farmhouses and rural dwellings from different regions of Japan.
3. Tama River: A scenic river that forms the boundary between Tokyo and Kanagawa Prefecture, offering picturesque parks and walking paths along its banks.
4. Fujiko F. Fujio Museum: The Doraemon Museum is dedicated to the famous manga artist Fujiko F. Fujio, creator of the popular character Doraemon.
5. Kawasaki Marien: A sports and recreational complex with facilities for tennis, swimming, soccer, and more, as well as an observation tower offering panoramic views of the city.

In addition to these attractions, Kawasaki City has a vibrant arts and culture scene, with various museums, galleries, and theaters. The city also hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Kawasaki Halloween Parade and the Kanamara Matsuri, also known as the “Steel Phallus” Festival.

Yurigaoka

Yurigaoka is a residential area in the Asao Ward of Kawasaki City, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan. It is famous for its family-friendly atmosphere, lush greenery, and convenient access to public transportation. The area is primarily serviced by the Odakyu Odawara Line, with Yurigaoka Station being the main transportation hub in the neighborhood.

Yurigaoka was developed as a planned residential community. Therefore, its design focused on creating a comfortable living environment with an emphasis on parks and green spaces. The area has several parks, such as Yurigaoka Park and Yurigaoka Furusato Park, providing residents ample space for outdoor activities, sports, and relaxation.

In addition to its green spaces, Yurigaoka offers a variety of amenities, including shopping centers, supermarkets, restaurants, and educational institutions. Yurigaoka Shopping Street is a popular destination for residents and visitors, offering a range of shops and eateries.

Yurigaoka also boasts several schools, including Yurigaoka Junior High School and Yurigaoka Elementary School, making it suitable for families with children. Moreover, Yurigaoka’s convenient location and well-planned infrastructure have made it a desirable residential area in the Kanagawa Prefecture.

Yokohama

Yokohama is the capital of Kanagawa Prefecture and the second-largest city in Japan by population, following Tokyo. It is located on the eastern coast of Honshu, along Tokyo Bay. It is a major commercial, industrial, and cultural hub in Greater Tokyo.

Yokohama was one of the first Japanese ports to be opened to foreign trade in the mid-19th century, greatly influencing its development and making it a center of international exchange. The city’s population as of 2020 was 3.77 million.

Yokohama’s Key Attractions and Areas of Interest

1. Minato Mirai 21: A modern, futuristic waterfront district featuring shopping centers, hotels, parks, museums, and entertainment venues. Landmarks include the Yokohama Landmark Tower, Japan’s second-tallest building, and the Cosmo Clock 21 Ferris wheel.
2. Chinatown: Yokohama’s Chinatown is the largest in Japan. It is famous for its vibrant streets, colorful gates, and various Chinese restaurants and shops. The area also hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year.
3. Yamashita Park: A popular waterfront park offering views of the Port of Yokohama and the iconic Hikawa Maru. A retired ocean liner now serves as a museum ship in the park.
4. Sankeien Garden: A traditional Japanese-style garden designed by Sankei Hara, featuring historic buildings relocated from various parts of Japan, ponds, and seasonal flora.
5. Yokohama Museum of Art: A contemporary art museum showcasing a diverse collection of Japanese and international works and special exhibitions.
6. Cup Noodles Museum: An interactive museum dedicated to instant ramen’s history and cultural impact. Visitors can also create their custom cup noodles in the museum.
7. Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise is an amusement park and aquarium complex located on a small island in Tokyo Bay. It features attractions, rides, and marine life exhibits.

Yokohama is also famous for its various events and festivals, such as the Yokohama Sparkling Twilight, the Kanagawa Shimbun Fireworks, and the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Christmas Market. The city offers diverse experiences, from modern attractions to historic sites, making it a popular destination for domestic and international travelers.

Sighting seeing Around Kanagawa

(Picture: Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum – picture courtesy: Japan National Tourism Organization)

Kanagawa offers some unique and romantic places to visit. With its proximity to Tokyo, the prefecture offers some great spots for a day trip or a weekend getaway. Here are a few places to consider visiting while in Kanagawa.

Hakone

Hakone is a popular resort town in the mountainous region of Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan. Known for its natural beauty, hot springs (onsen), and stunning views of Mount Fuji, Hakone attracts domestic and international tourists seeking a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Main attractions and areas of interest in Hakone

1. Hakone Open-Air Museum: This unique museum features an extensive collection of contemporary sculptures and artwork displayed in a beautiful outdoor setting with mountains and forests as a picturesque backdrop.
2. Hakone Shrine: Nestled in a dense forest, this Shinto shrine is famous for its iconic red torii gate standing in the waters of Lake Ashi. The shrine offers a serene atmosphere and is said to bring good fortune and protection to visitors.
3. Lake Ashi (Ashinoko): A beautiful crater lake formed by a volcanic eruption; Lake Ashi is a popular sightseeing spot offering stunning views of Mount Fuji on clear days. Visitors can enjoy sightseeing cruises, fishing, or simply relaxing along the lakeshore.
4. Owakudani: A volcanic valley featuring sulfur vents, hot springs, and an otherworldly landscape. Visitors can experience the unique geothermal activity, hike the surrounding trails, and try the famous black eggs. These eggs are hard-boiled in the hot springs and are said to prolong one’s life.
5. Hakone Ropeway: A scenic cable car ride that takes visitors over the Owakudani Valley. You can enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, Lake Ashi, and Mount Fuji.
6. Hakone Tozan Railway: A mountain railway that takes passengers through the picturesque Hakone landscape, featuring switchbacks, tunnels, and bridges. The train ride is trendy during the fall foliage season.
7. Hakone’s Onsen (Hot Springs): The area is famous for its numerous hot springs, many of which are within traditional Japanese inns called Ryokan. Visitors can relax in these natural thermal baths while enjoying stunning views of Hakone’s natural surroundings.

Outdoor Activities in Hakone

In addition to the above-mentioned attractions, Hakone offers a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, golfing, and water sports. The town’s proximity to Tokyo makes it a popular weekend getaway, especially for those seeking a break from city life and an opportunity to enjoy Japan’s natural beauty.

Odawara

Odawara is a coastal city in the southwest of Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan. It is famous for its rich history, natural beauty, and strategic location along the Tokaido Shinkansen line, which connects Tokyo with Osaka. With a population of 188,856 as of 2020, Odawara is a gateway to the popular Hakone hot springs resort area and provides easy access to the surrounding mountains and coastline.

Main attractions and areas of interest in Odawara

1. Odawara Castle: The city’s most famous landmark, Odawara Castle, was originally built in the 15th century. It was a stronghold for the Hojo Clan. The castle has been reconstructed several times and now houses a museum showcasing the history of the castle and the city. The castle grounds also feature beautiful gardens, especially popular during the cherry blossom season.
2. Odawara Fishing Port: A bustling fishing port is famous for its fresh seafood, especially its signature dish, “Himono” (sun-dried fish). Visitors can enjoy the lively atmosphere of the fish market, dine at local seafood restaurants, or participate in seasonal events and festivals.
3. Odawara Hakone Seiroku Mishima Grand Suspension Bridge: Also known as the “Mishima Sky Walk,” this 400-meter long pedestrian suspension bridge offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, Sagami Bay, and, on clear days, Mount Fuji.
4. Odawara Wanpaku Land: A family-friendly amusement park featuring outdoor activities, such as go-karting, mini-golf, playgrounds, and picnic areas, as well as seasonal flower displays.
5. Odawara Art Foundation: A cultural facility that combines art, nature, and relaxation, featuring an art museum, an outdoor sculpture garden, and a cafe with a beautiful view of the surrounding forest.
6. Tsujimura Botanical Garden: A botanical garden that showcases various species of plants, including many natives to the region, as well as a greenhouse, walking trails, and seasonal flower displays.

In addition to these attractions, Odawara is a convenient base for exploring the nearby Hakone region, the Izu Peninsula, and other areas of interest in Kanagawa Prefecture. The city’s rich history, scenic beauty, and accessibility make it an attractive destination for both domestic and international travelers.

Kamakura

Kamakura is a coastal city in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan, about 50 kilometers southwest of Tokyo. Steeped in history, Kamakura was the political center of Japan during the Kamakura Period (1185-1333). It was the period when the Kamakura Shogunate was established. Today, the city is a popular tourist destination because of its numerous temples, shrines, and historical sites, as well as its beautiful beaches and scenic natural beauty.

Key attractions and points of interest in Kamakura

1. Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine: A major Shinto shrine and the most important religious site in Kamakura, dedicated to Hachiman, the patron god of the samurai. The shrine complex features beautiful gardens, ponds, and several sub-shrines.
2. The Great Buddha (Daibutsu): An iconic bronze statue of Amida Buddha, located at Kotoku-in Temple. Standing 11.4 meters (37 feet) tall, it is Japan’s second-largest bronze Buddha statue and a symbol of Kamakura.
3. Hasedera Temple: A Buddhist temple known for its beautiful hillside gardens, a large wooden statue of Kannon (the goddess of mercy), and stunning coastline views from its observation platform.
4. Hokokuji Temple: Also known as the “Bamboo Temple,” this serene Zen temple is famous for its beautiful bamboo grove, which creates a peaceful atmosphere for visitors seeking tranquility.
5. Komachi-dori: A bustling shopping street lined with souvenir shops, cafes, and restaurants, offering a variety of local and international cuisine, as well as traditional Japanese sweets.
6. Enoshima Island: A small island off the coast of Kamakura, connected to the mainland by a bridge. It is a popular destination for its shrines, parks, and beaches, offering picturesque views of the ocean and Mount Fuji on clear days.
7. Kamakura’s Beaches: The city is home to several sandy beaches, such as Yuigahama and Zaimokuza, which are popular during the summer months for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Kamakura’s rich history, cultural heritage, and stunning natural beauty make it an appealing destination for travelers interested in Japanese history and traditional architecture. The city’s temples, shrines, and historical sites glimpse Japan’s past. Moreover, its beaches and vibrant shopping streets provide a more contemporary experience for visitors.

Zushi

Zushi is a small coastal city on the eastern coast of the Miura Peninsula in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan. It is famous for its beautiful beaches, scenic natural surroundings, and relaxed atmosphere, which make it a popular destination for domestic and international tourists.

Main attractions and areas of interest in Zushi

1. Zushi Beach: A popular sandy beach that stretches along the Sagami Bay coastline. Zushi Beach is known for its clear waters and stunning views of the surrounding hills. Zushi Beach attracts visitors for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports like windsurfing and paddleboarding. During the summer, the beachfront is lined with seasonal seaside cafes and bars called “umi no ie.”
2. Zushi Marina: A picturesque area offering various recreational activities, such as yacht cruises, sailing lessons, and fishing. Zushi Marina is also home to several waterfront restaurants and shops, making it a pleasant place for a leisurely stroll.
3. Kamakura and Hayama: Zushi is close to the historic city of Kamakura and the seaside town of Hayama. Both these towns offer additional sightseeing opportunities, including ancient temples, shrines, and scenic coastal views.
4. Hiking and nature: Zushi is surrounded by hills and lush greenery, providing ample opportunities for hiking and enjoying nature. Nearby trails, such as the one leading to the summit of Mount Takatori, offer panoramic views of the city, the bay, and, on clear days, Mount Fuji.
5. Local festivals and events: Zushi hosts several annual events and festivals. These festivals include the Zushi Beach Film Festival and the Zushi Summer Fireworks Festival, attracting visitors and locals alike.

The relaxed atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and easy access to nearby attractions make Zushi a good destination for those looking to enjoy a coastal retreat in the Kanagawa Prefecture. Its proximity to major cities like Tokyo and Yokohama allows for convenient day trips or weekend getaways to experience the area’s natural beauty and laid-back charm.

Conclusion

In conclusion, living in Kanagawa Prefecture offers a unique blend of urban convenience and natural beauty.

Cities like Yokohama provide the vibrancy and amenities of a major metropolitan area, while quieter locales such as Kamakura and Zushi offer peaceful retreats with rich cultural heritage and scenic coastlines.

The prefecture’s proximity to Tokyo adds to its appeal, granting residents easy access to the capital while allowing them to enjoy a more relaxed lifestyle.

Additionally, areas like Kawasaki and Sagamihara cater to those seeking industrial and technological hubs. Kanagawa’s diverse range of living environments, cultural attractions, and natural landscapes make it a desirable location for various lifestyles and preferences.

Whether one is attracted to the busy life of city life or the tranquility of seaside towns, Kanagawa Prefecture provides a fulfilling and dynamic living experience.

Jamila Brown

Jamila Brown is a 5-year veteran in Japan working in the education and business sector. Jamila is currently transitioning into the digital marketing world in Japan. In her free time, she enjoys traveling and writing about the culture in Japan.