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.
Current safety advisory
Generally Safe With Normal Precautions
Essential safety tips
Practical advice that applies everywhere.
Japan is earthquake-prone. Familiarise yourself with earthquake safety: drop to your knees, take cover under a sturdy table, hold on, and stay away from windows. Many hotels display evacuation routes.
Typhoon season runs July–October. Monitor forecasts via the Japan Meteorological Agency (jma.go.jp) or the Safety Tips app. If a typhoon warning is issued, stay indoors, avoid coastal and river areas.
Coastal areas including Kamakura, Enoshima, and Yokohama have tsunami risk after major earthquakes. Know the location of tsunami evacuation signs (blue signs with wave icon) and move to higher ground immediately if a warning is issued.
Hakone's Owakudani volcanic valley occasionally restricts access due to increased sulfuric gas emissions. Check Kanagawa Prefecture's official hazard level before visiting. Those with respiratory conditions should take extra precautions.
Traffic drives on the left in Japan. Pedestrians cross at designated crossings only; jaywalking is uncommon and can be dangerous in busy Yokohama intersections. Be alert for cyclists on footpaths.
Summers (July–September) can be dangerously hot and humid (30–35°C). Drink water regularly, wear sunscreen, seek shade during midday, and be alert for heat stroke symptoms. Convenience stores are everywhere and sell cold drinks cheaply.
Pickpocketing is rare in Japan but can occur in crowded tourist spots like Yokohama Chinatown and Kamakura during peak season. Keep valuables in a front pocket or zipped bag. Lost property is frequently turned in to police boxes (koban).
Japan has very low scam rates. Be cautious of touts near some Yokohama nightlife areas who may invite you into overpriced bars or clubs. Reputable establishments do not solicit on the street.
Stand behind the yellow tactile line on train platforms. Priority seats near train doors are reserved for elderly, pregnant, and disabled passengers — vacate them if needed. Do not eat on local trains (fine on shinkansen).
Hakone and Kamakura hiking trails can become slippery after rain. Wear appropriate footwear, carry water, and download offline maps before setting out. Some trails near Owakudani may be closed without notice.
Yokohama has excellent hospitals; Yokohama City University Hospital and Yokohama Municipal Citizen's Hospital both have international patient departments. In emergencies dial 119 for ambulance/fire, 110 for police.
Remove shoes when entering temples, traditional ryokan, and some restaurants. Tattoos may restrict access to some onsen. Avoid speaking loudly on trains or public transport. Tipping is not customary and can be considered rude.
Download the free 'Safety Tips' app (JNTO) for real-time earthquake, tsunami, and weather alerts in English, Chinese, Korean, and other languages.
Safety for specific travellers
Tailored advice for different groups.