Kanagawa’s Hidden Gems: From Yokohama to Kamakura

Kanagawa’s Hidden Gems: From Yokohama to Kamakura

Kanagawa—where samurai history, seaside escapes, 
and futuristic skylines collide. One moment, you’re gazing at the neon-lit towers of Yokohama; 
the next, you’re standing before the Great Buddha of Kamakura, a silent witness to centuries of 
history. Whether you’re soaking in Hakone’s legendary hot springs, exploring a samurai 
fortress in Odawara, or savoring Yokohama’s famous ramen, Kanagawa is the perfect blend of 
past and present. Let’s dive into this dynamic prefecture—don’t forget to like, subscribe, 
and hit the bell for more travel adventures! Kanagawa sits on the southeastern edge 
of Kantō—and no, it’s not just Tokyo’s seaside neighbor. This is where Japan’s past and 
future collide, from ancient samurai strongholds to glittering cityscapes along the bay.
Kantō is a land of history, innovation, and breathtaking coastlines, and Kanagawa 
carved out its own legacy—welcoming foreign trade to Yokohama, inspiring artists with 
Hakone’s landscapes, and serving up legendary ramen that keeps people coming back for more.
But Kanagawa’s story hasn’t always been smooth sailing. The 1923 Great Kantō Earthquake nearly 
leveled Yokohama, yet the city rebuilt itself into Japan’s second-largest metropolis. From 
the resilience of its people to the beauty of its landscapes, Kanagawa is a place where
Kanagawa’s name translates to “god sound river” or “divine sound river,” conjuring up images of 
celestial tunes flowing through majestic waters, and it’s where “god sound river” meets modern 
hustle, with a splash of volcanic flair and a side of stunning coastal views. As the second-most 
populous in Japan with over 9.2 million residents, Kanagawa is like Tokyo’s slightly more 
chill neighbor who still knows how to throw a party (and packs its beaches 
with surfers instead of skyscrapers). Wedged between Tokyo, Mount Fuji, and two 
gorgeous bays, Kanagawa is a pint-sized gem. It’s got everything: bustling cities like Yokohama 
(Japan’s second-largest city and snack capital), Kawasaki (industrial but still cool), 
and Sagamihara (the quieter sibling), plus resort towns like Hakone where you can 
bathe in hot springs while pretending to be a mountain hermit. Over a fifth of Kanagawa’s 
land is dedicated to Natural Parks, perfect for when the city gets too loud, and you need to 
zen out with Mt. Hakone’s volcanic vibes. Kanagawa flexes its geographical muscles with 
the Tanzawa Mountain Range, where Mount Hiru (at 1,673 meters) reigns supreme, and lesser 
peaks like Mount Tanzawa and Mount Himetsugi provide stellar hiking opportunities. Closer 
to sea level, the Tama River and Sagami River meander through, offering Instagram-worthy spots 
to pretend you’re in a Japanese painting. Kanagawa is the home of Yokohama, 
Japan’s second-largest city, where you can enjoy a harbor view while eating 
ramen as if it’s a Michelin-starred dish. Oh, and Kamakura? It’s like Japan’s medieval 
version of Washington, D.C., from back when samurai were the original lobbyists.
If that’s too intense, Hakone’s hot springs are there to soothe your lava-related stress. 
Surfers and snorkelers flock to Sagami Bay, while those who prefer sipping cocktails on a yacht 
might prefer Yokohama Bay’s sleek waterfront. Kanagawa might be Tokyo’s neighbor, but 
it’s got its own swagger—less skyscrapers, more scenery, and festivals that’ll 
make you want to call it home. When’s the best time to visit Kanagawa?
Spring bursts with cherry blossoms in Kamakura and Yokohama’s Sankeien Gardens, turning the 
prefecture into a pastel dream. Summer means beach days in Enoshima and mountain breezes in 
Hakone—though hikes might leave you questioning your life choices. Autumn sets the scene 
with fiery foliage, making Odawara Castle and Hakone’s trails feel straight out of a samurai 
film. Winter brings crisp air and crystal-clear views of Mt. Fuji from Lake Ashi, so sharp it’s 
like the mountain got a fresh edge overnight. Today we delve into the fascinating history of 
Kanagawa, discover must-visit spots, savor its delectable cuisine, and find out the best times to 
visit and the perfect souvenirs to bring home. Kanagawa’s history stretches way back to 
the Jōmon period, meaning the prefecture was already hip when cavemen were doodling 
in caves elsewhere. About 3,000 years ago, Mount Hakone decided to throw the ultimate 
volcanic tantrum, creating Lake Ashi. Fast-forward to the 5th century, 
when the imperial dynasty supposedly ruled this area. But let’s be real: they 
probably just liked the view. Back then, Kanagawa’s plains were so sparsely populated that 
spotting a neighbor was more rare than finding a seat on a Tokyo train during rush hour.
During medieval Japan, Kanagawa was split between the provinces of Sagami and Musashi. 
Kamakura in central Sagami became Japan’s capital during the Kamakura period, when samurai roamed 
the streets, and feudal drama was common. The Edo period brought landlords galore. The 
western part of Sagami Province was ruled by the daimyō of Odawara Castle, while the eastern part 
was under direct Tokugawa shogunate control. So, Odawara got castles, while the other 
side got, well, micromanagement. Kanagawa’s modern history kicked off when 
Commodore Matthew Perry showed up uninvited in 1853 and 1854. Armed with his infamous “Black 
Ships” and a knack for aggressive diplomacy, Perry coerced Japan into signing the Convention 
of Kanagawa. Cue Yokohama opening its doors to international trade in 1859, quickly transforming 
into the largest trading port in Japan—and the birthplace of Kanagawa’s global hustle.
Of course, Kanagawa couldn’t resist a little drama. In 1923, the Great Kantō earthquake 
hit with the fury of a samurai army. The epicenter was conveniently located 
under Izu Ōshima Island in Sagami Bay, ensuring maximum chaos. Kamakura saw over 2,000 
deaths, while Odawara experienced 90% of its buildings collapsing in the quake’s wake.
Then came 1945, when U.S. bombing raids turned Yokohama and Kawasaki into piles of smoldering 
wreckage. Kanagawa’s resilience shone, though, as it became the landing spot for General 
Douglas MacArthur after Japan’s surrender. Today, U.S. military bases like Camp Zama, 
Yokosuka Naval Base, and Atsugi Naval Air Facility remind us that Kanagawa’s modern 
history still comes with a global twist. Kanagawa’s history isn’t just something you 
read about—it’s something you experience. And what better way to dive in than through 
its festivals? The Kamakura Festival in April is where samurai legends come to life, while the 
Odawara Hōjō Godai Festival in May is where you can cosplay as a feudal lord without judgment. And 
who can forget the Yokohama Pikachu Outbreak? Yes, an actual army of dancing Pikachus takes over 
the city like it’s a Pokémon episode gone rogue. Hot springs, museums, Mount Fuji views, and just 
the right amount of culture—Hakone has it all. Stay in a ryokan, soak in the onsen, and feel your 
stress melt away. The Hakone Open-Air Museum turns art into an adventure, with sculptures so bold you 
won’t know whether to admire them or climb them. Not enough art for you? Okada Museum of Art is A 
stunning blend of ancient masterpieces and sleek modern design. Even if art isn’t your thing, the 
architecture alone is worth a spot on your feed. Over at Hakone Shrine, the iconic floating 
torii on Lake Ashi adds instant serenity (and Instagram cred). For epic views, take the Hakone 
Ropeway—part cable car, part volcanic adventure, with Owakudani’s sulfur clouds making it feel like 
you’ve stepped onto another planet. Or hop on the Hakone Tozan Railway, a zigzagging mountain ride 
so twisty, it feels like a rollercoaster designed by a stunt driver. Before you leave check out 
Owakudani Valley where you’ll find a steaming, otherworldly landscape where volcanic fumes 
fill the air, and jet-black eggs promise seven extra years of life—assuming you don’t 
lose a few from the sulfuric stench first! Kamakura is the Kyoto of Kanto—packed with 
temples, history, and enough rice crackers to fill a suitcase. Its star attraction? The Great 
Buddha of Kotoku-in, a 13th-century bronze giant that’s been meditating longer than any of us ever 
could. Kencho-ji is Japan’s oldest Zen monastery, where ancient halls and towering cedar trees 
radiate such deep tranquility, even the loudest travel buddy might find their inner peace. 
Hase-dera offers stunning views, a wooden Kannon statue, and enough hydrangeas to turn your 
camera roll purple. At Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, you’ll climb historic steps, admire endless torii 
gates, and wonder why samurai needed such intense leg workouts. Step into a Zen dream at Hokoku-ji 
where towering bamboo sways in the breeze and every path feels like a living postcard. Sip 
matcha in the teahouse—it’s not just a suggestion, it’s a ritual. Spending all your yen in Japan? 
Ugafuku Shrine (Zeniarai Benten Shrine) is a mystical cave shrine where washing your money in 
sacred spring water is said to double it—if not in reality, at least in optimism! Before leaving, 
hit Komachi Street, where matcha everything, street food, and sweet potato soft 
serve make the crowds totally worth it. Yokohama is Tokyo’s cooler, laid-back cousin—the 
one who throws epic parties and always knows the best food spots. It’s where a bustling port city 
meets futuristic skyscrapers, ramen museums, and waterfront cafés perfect for people-watching.
At Minato Mirai 21, skyscrapers scrape the sky, shopping malls empty your wallet, and the 
massive Ferris wheel lets you scream with a view. Head up to the Landmark Tower Sky Garden 
for a cityscape so stunning, you’ll briefly forget how much you just spent. Feeling creative? 
The Cup Noodles Museum lets you design your own instant ramen—because nothing says “culinary 
genius” like adding hot water. Over in Chinatown, Japan’s largest, you’ll find lantern-lined 
streets packed with dumplings, bao, and the eternal challenge: how much dim sum is too much? 
For thrill-seekers, Hakkejima Sea Paradise is an aquarium meets amusement park, where you can ride 
roller coasters, wave at penguins, and pretend you’re not terrified of deep-sea creatures. If 
that’s not enough, Cosmo World delivers more adrenaline, with its Ferris wheel doubling as a 
city landmark. For a more relaxed vibe, Osanbashi Pier offers futuristic design and perfect 
sunset views, while the Red Brick Warehouses blend history with trendy shops, cafés, and that 
irresistible urge to buy artisanal everything. At Yamashita Park enjoy a breezy seaside escape 
where you can stroll along the waterfront, soak in the skyline views, and race against time 
to finish your ice cream before the sun does. Need more greenery? Sankeien Gardens is a serene 
oasis where historic teahouses, koi-filled ponds, and seasonal blooms transport you to old 
Japan—just minutes from Yokohama’s urban buzz. Sail across a stunning volcanic lake at Lake 
Ashinoko, where postcard-perfect views of Mount Fuji might just make you question why you 
didn’t pursue a career in landscape painting. Enoshima is a mystical mix of 
seaside shrines, hidden caves, and an army of resident cats who clearly run 
the place. Come for the adventure, stay for the seafood—because let’s be real, you’re leaving 
with a full stomach and at least one cat photo. Odawara Castle – Once the mighty stronghold of 
the Hojo clan, this castle withstood sieges, outlasted samurai wars, and now stands as a 
beautifully reconstructed tribute to its feudal past. Walk its storied halls, climb the towering 
keep, and relive the days when Odawara was the last line of defense against Japan’s unifiers.
Samukawa Shrine is a hidden sanctuary where ancient rituals cleanse your soul, the crowds stay 
blissfully low, and the peaceful atmosphere feels like a spiritual spa day for the mind.
One of Japan’s most visited temples, Kawasaki Daishi is the ultimate spot for warding 
off bad luck. Whether you’re here for spiritual protection or just the irresistible aroma 
of traditional sweets, this temple delivers blessings—and some seriously good snacks.
Deep in the mountains, Daiyuzan Saijo-ji offers spiritual serenity—with a side of 
leg day. Climb its endless stone steps, pass towering cedar trees, and embrace the temple’s 
peaceful energy (once you catch your breath). Step into a world of nostalgia at Fujiko F. Fujio 
Museum, where Doraemon’s coolest gadgets come to life, childhood dreams resurface, and you finally 
get to see the future you always wanted as a kid! Sagamiko Illumination is a dazzling winter 
wonderland where millions of LED lights transform the night into pure magic—so breathtaking, your 
phone’s storage won’t survive the photo spree. From fresh seafood in Enoshima to Yokohama’s 
Chinatown offering dumplings that could bring tears to your eyes, Kanagawa’s culinary 
game is strong. Top it off with seasonal treats at its festivals, and you’ve got 
a menu that rivals Tokyo’s finest. Shirasu-don is a bowl of rice piled high 
with tiny, silver-white sardines—because why settle for one fish when you can have 
hundreds? Go for boiled shirasu for a light, delicate flavor, or raw shirasu for a chewy, briny 
kick that reminds you the ocean is in charge. Yokohama Iekei Ramen is thick, chewy noodles 
swimming in a rich, porky broth so creamy it could be a latte—only way better. Add a splash of 
soy sauce, a slab of marinated pork, and a heap of chopped spinach, and you’ve got the ramen 
equivalent of a warm hug with extra umami. Imagine biting into a fluffy, cloud-like bun. 
Now imagine that cloud is stuffed with juicy, seasoned pork. That’s nikuman—steamy, 
pillowy, and so satisfying it doesn’t need a single topping to be perfect.
Kaigun Kare (Yokosuka Navy Curry) is a bold, spiced-up beef curry with a side of naval 
history. Inspired by the British Royal Navy, this hearty dish fueled Japanese sailors 
back in the day—and now it’s fueling your taste buds with rich, savory goodness.
After indulging in Kanagawa’s incredible flavors—from steaming bowls of Yokohama ramen to 
fresh seafood on Enoshima—you’ll probably wish you could take the taste of Kanagawa home with you. 
While packing a bowl of ramen might be tricky, don’t worry—this prefecture has plenty 
of souvenirs that capture its flavors, culture, and charm. Let’s dive into the 
best take-home treasures from Kanagawa! Kurumicco is one of Kamakura’s signature 
treats—rich caramel packed with crunchy walnuts, wrapped in buttery dough for the perfect balance 
of sweetness. Decadent yet not overpowering, its firm texture adds the perfect bite. Try it chilled 
in summer for a refreshing seasonal twist! Hato Sablé is Kamakura’s most iconic cookie—a 
buttery, dove-shaped delight that melts in your mouth with every bite. Crisp, rich, and perfectly 
golden, it’s a nostalgic treat that’s been winning hearts (and stomachs) for over a century!
Owakudani Kurotamago Kan is the only place where eating a black egg supposedly adds 
seven years to your life—just don’t think too hard about how it got that color or why the 
sulfur smell makes you question your choices! Kiyoken’s Shu Mai is Yokohama’s ultimate 
bite-sized indulgence—juicy, flavorful pork dumplings wrapped in a delicate skin, packed with 
umami in every bite. A staple since 1928, it’s the perfect mix of tradition and taste, best enjoyed 
with their signature mustard and soy sauce! And there you have it—Kanagawa! A prefecture 
where samurai history, seaside escapes, and some of Japan’s most legendary eats come 
together in one unforgettable adventure. Whether you’re soaking in Hakone’s hot springs, 
devouring Yokohama ramen, or striking a pose with the Great Buddha, Kanagawa is packed with 
experiences you won’t want to leave behind. If you enjoyed this journey, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more travel 
adventures. See you in the next adventure!

From futuristic cityscapes to ancient temples by the sea, Kanagawa Prefecture is a place where Japan’s modern energy and timeless tradition collide. In this video, we take you on a journey from the glittering skyline of Yokohama, to the historic streets of Kamakura, and the laid-back island vibes of Enoshima.

Discover hidden gems you won’t find in most guidebooks: secret photo spots, peaceful shrines, underrated food spots, and scenic coastlines—all just a short train ride from Tokyo.

Whether you’re planning a trip, reminiscing about your travels, or dreaming of Japan, this guide to Kanagawa has something for everyone.

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more unique travel stories from Japan!

00:00 Introduction
00:43 Overview
05:13 History
08:10 Where to Visit
16:26 Culinary Delights
18:06 Souvenirs
19:58 Conclusion

References:
BYTHEWAY, S. J., & CHAIKLIN, M. (2016). Reconsidering the Yokohama “Gold Rush” of 1859. Journal of World History, 27(2), 281–301. http://www.jstor.org/stable/43901851
CHAIKLIN, M. (2010). Monopolists to Middlemen: Dutch Liberalism and American Imperialism in the Opening of Japan. Journal of World History, 21(2), 249–269. http://www.jstor.org/stable/20752949
Cullen, L. M. (2010). Statistics of Tokugawa Coastal Trade and Bakumatsu and Early Meiji Foreign Trade, Part 2: Trade in Bakumatsu and Early Meiji Times. Japan Review, 22, 59–102. http://www.jstor.org/stable/25791342
https://trip.pref.kanagawa.jp/see-and-do/history