Kanagawa Prefecture is a diverse region south of Tokyo offering everything from the cosmopolitan port city of Yokohama to the ancient temples of Kamakura and the volcanic hot springs of Hakone. It combines urban sophistication with natural beauty, including stunning views of Mount Fuji and the rugged Shonan coastline.
Top attractions
The most popular and significant attractions in Kanagawa.
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1
Kotoku-in Great Buddha (Kamakura Daibutsu)
The iconic 13.35-metre bronze Great Buddha of Amida, cast in 1252, is Japan's second-tallest bronze Buddha and one of Kanagawa's most recognizable landmarks. Visitors can enter the hollow interior of the statue for an additional fee.
Tip: Arrive early to beat tour groups · combine with nearby Hasedera Temple.
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2
Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
Kamakura's most important Shinto shrine, founded in 1063 and rebuilt by shogun Minamoto no Yoritomo. The grand approach lined with stone lanterns and lotus ponds leads to a striking vermilion main hall on a hilltop.
Tip: Visit during peony garden season (mid-January) or the late-September Yabusame horseback archery festival.
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3
Yokohama Chinatown (Chukagai)
The largest Chinatown in Japan and one of the largest in the world, with over 600 restaurants, shops, and temples in a dense labyrinthine quarter. The ornate Kanteibyo Temple at its heart is a spiritual anchor for the Chinese community.
Tip: Try the freshly steamed dim sum and Peking duck. Busiest on weekends — visit on a weekday for a calmer experience.
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4
Minato Mirai 21
Yokohama's futuristic waterfront district featuring the Landmark Tower, Cosmo World amusement park, the Cup Noodles Museum, MARK IS shopping mall, and one of Japan's most beautiful nighttime cityscapes.
Tip: Go at sunset · the view from the Landmark Tower observatory turns golden then blazes with city lights.
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5
Hakone Open-Air Museum (Chokoku no Mori)
Japan's first open-air art museum, established in 1969, set across 70,000 sqm of landscaped grounds. Features over 120 sculptures by Rodin, Henry Moore, Niki de Saint Phalle, and Japanese masters, plus five indoor galleries including a dedicated Picasso Pavilion with 300 works.
Tip: Free foot onsen within the grounds — bring a towel! IC card accepted.
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6
Owakudani Volcanic Valley
An active volcanic area created by the eruption of Mt. Hakone 3,000 years ago. Famous for its sulfurous vents, bubbling pools, and the kuro-tamago — black eggs hard-boiled in the volcanic springs, said to add seven years to your life.
Tip: Check hazard level before visiting — site occasionally closes due to elevated volcanic gas. Clear days offer Mt. Fuji views.
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7
Enoshima Island
A small tidal island connected to the mainland by a bridge, home to Enoshima Shrine, sea caves, botanical gardens, and coastal lookout points. At low tide the rocky shores reveal fascinating tidal pools.
Tip: Wear comfortable shoes for the many stairs. Try fresh shirasu-don (whitebait on rice) at one of the hilltop restaurants.
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8
Hasedera Temple
One of Kamakura's most atmospheric temples, housing an 11-faced gilded wooden Kannon statue nearly 9 metres tall. The terraced gardens offer panoramic views of Kamakura Bay, and the temple grounds feature a cave with hundreds of small Jizo statues.
Tip: Stunning in hydrangea season (June). Combine with the Great Buddha (a 10-minute walk).
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9
Kencho-ji Temple
Japan's oldest Zen training monastery, founded in 1253. The imposing Sanmon gate leads into a complex of ancient buildings, including the Butsuden main hall and a tranquil karesansui dry garden. The Hansobo shrine behind the temple involves a scenic hillside hike.
Tip: The hike up to Hansobo offers sweeping views over Kamakura. Combine with Engakuji Temple nearby.
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10
Engakuji Temple
A major Zen temple founded in 1282 by Hojo Tokimune, one of Japan's most important Rinzai Zen training centers. The grounds include ancient bell tower, moss-covered stone lanterns, and a peaceful lotus pond.
Tip: Located right outside Kita-Kamakura Station — easy first stop on the temple trail.
Tips for visiting attractions
Make the most of your sightseeing time.
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and harsh midday light.
Book tickets online in advance for major attractions to skip long queues and sometimes save money.
Many cities offer multi-attraction passes that include public transport. Calculate whether they save you money based on your itinerary.