Are you looking to explore beyond the bustling city of Tokyo during your stay in Japan? Kanagawa prefecture, located just south of Tokyo, offers a plethora of scenic day trip options that are sure to satisfy your wanderlust.
From historic temples to breathtaking mountain views, Kanagawa has something for everyone. One of the most popular day trip destinations from Kanagawa is Kamakura. Known for its numerous temples and shrines, the city offers a glimpse into Japan’s rich history and culture.
Take a stroll through the serene bamboo groves of Hokokuji Temple or marvel at the towering bronze statue of Buddha at Kotokuin Temple. Another must-visit attraction is Enoshima, a small island connected to the mainland by a bridge. Here you can take in stunning views of the ocean and visit the Enoshima Shrine, dedicated to the goddess of music and entertainment.
Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a peaceful escape, Kamakura and Enoshima are not to be missed.
Key Takeaways
- Kanagawa prefecture offers a variety of options for scenic day trips from Tokyo, including Kamakura, Hokokuji Temple, Kotokuin Temple, Enoshima, Hakone, Lake Ashi, Owakudani, Hakone Shrine, and Hakone Ropeway.
- Yokohama is a port city with a blend of modernity and tradition, offering attractions such as Yokohama Landmark Tower, Yamate historic district, and Yokohama Chinatown.
- Mount Takao, located just a short train ride from Kanagawa, offers lush greenery and scenic hiking trails with varying difficulty levels, as well as a cable car ride and Yakuoin Temple.
- Kamakura, a charming coastal town, offers a rich cultural experience with attractions such as the Great Buddha of Kamakura, Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Hasedera Temple, Enoshima Sea Candle, and Enoshima Shrine.
Kamakura
Looking for a scenic day trip from Kanagawa? Kamakura is the perfect destination!
This charming coastal town is just a short train ride away and offers a rich cultural experience. Start your day by visiting the Great Buddha of Kamakura, a massive bronze statue that stands at over 40 feet tall. This iconic landmark is a must-see and is surrounded by peaceful gardens.
After visiting the Great Buddha, take a stroll through the charming streets of Kamakura and visit the many temples and shrines. The Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine is particularly stunning, with its grand red torii gate and beautiful architecture. You can also visit the Hasedera Temple and its stunning gardens or head to the beach and catch some waves.
Kamakura has something for everyone and is the perfect day trip from Kanagawa.
Enoshima
As you explore Enoshima, you’ll be enchanted by the island’s stunning views and rich cultural history. This small island off the coast of Kamakura is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
Enoshima is renowned for its beautiful beaches, lush gardens, and ancient shrines. The island is also home to a variety of shops and restaurants, making it the perfect spot for a day trip.
One of the must-see attractions on Enoshima is the Enoshima Sea Candle, a towering lighthouse that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding coastline. Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse for a small fee, and the views are well worth it.
Another popular spot is the Enoshima Shrine, a complex of shrines and temples dedicated to the goddess Benzaiten. The shrine is located on the island’s highest point, and visitors can enjoy stunning views of Sagami Bay from the top of the hill.
Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or just a relaxing day at the beach, Enoshima is definitely worth a visit.
Hakone
Hakone is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a relaxing getaway from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo. This charming town is located in the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and is known for its natural hot springs, stunning nature trails, and breathtaking views of Mount Fuji. Whether you are looking to soak in a traditional Japanese hot spring, explore scenic hiking trails, or indulge in local cuisine, Hakone has something for everyone.
To help plan your day trip to Hakone, here is a table of some must-see attractions and activities:
| Attraction | Description |
|---|---|
| Hakone Open-Air Museum | A unique outdoor art museum featuring sculptures, installations, and other works of art |
| Lake Ashi | A scenic lake that offers boat tours and stunning views of Mount Fuji |
| Owakudani | A volcanic valley known for its hot springs, sulfur vents, and black eggs |
| Hakone Shrine | A beautiful Shinto shrine located on the shores of Lake Ashi |
| Hakone Ropeway | A cable car that takes visitors on a scenic ride over the mountains and valleys of Hakone |
With so much to see and do in Hakone, it’s easy to see why it’s such a popular day trip destination from Kanagawa. So, why not take a break from city life and immerse yourself in the natural beauty and tranquility of Hakone?
Yokohama
If you’re in the mood for a change of scenery from the busy city streets of Tokyo, Yokohama is the perfect destination for a day trip. Just a short train ride from Kanagawa, Yokohama is a beautiful port city that offers a perfect blend of modernity and tradition.
One of the must-visit attractions in Yokohama is the stunning Yokohama Landmark Tower, which stands tall at 296 meters and offers breathtaking views of the bay area and the city skyline.
For a more traditional experience, head to the historic district of Yamate, where you can explore the charming European-style houses and gardens.
You can also visit the iconic Yokohama Chinatown, which is the largest Chinatown in Japan and is famous for its bustling streets, lively atmosphere, and delicious food.
Mount Takao
You can easily escape the city and immerse yourself in nature by taking a short train ride to Mount Takao, where you’ll be greeted by lush greenery and scenic hiking trails.
Located just 50 minutes away from Kanagawa, Mount Takao is a popular destination for nature lovers and hikers alike. With its numerous trails varying in difficulty, you can choose whether to take a leisurely stroll or challenge yourself with a more difficult hike.
One of the highlights of Mount Takao is the cable car ride that takes you up to the peak. From there, you can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and Tokyo cityscape.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also climb up to the summit on foot. Along the way, you’ll encounter a variety of temples and shrines, including the Yakuoin Temple, which is believed to house a powerful deity that grants wishes.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an active adventure, Mount Takao offers something for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of year to visit Kamakura?
The best time of year to visit Kamakura depends on your preferences. If you prefer warm weather, then the summer months of June to August are ideal, but it can get quite crowded during this time.
If you prefer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, then the best time to visit would be during the fall months of September to November. During this time, you can also witness the beautiful autumn foliage that Kamakura is known for.
If you’re interested in experiencing Kamakura’s traditional festivals, then plan your visit during the spring months of March to May. Whatever time of year you choose to visit, there’s always something to see and do in Kamakura.
Are there any popular hiking trails near Enoshima?
Yes, there are several popular hiking trails near Enoshima that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
One of the most popular trails is the Enoshima Ten Hiking Course, which takes you through lush forests and up to the top of a hill where you can enjoy panoramic views of the coast.
Another great option is the Kamegaoka Trail, which is a bit more challenging but rewards hikers with stunning views of Sagami Bay and Mt. Fuji in the distance.
Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a leisurely stroll, there are plenty of options for exploring the natural beauty of Enoshima and its surroundings.
How long does it take to reach Hakone from Kanagawa by train?
To get to Hakone from Kanagawa by train, it can take anywhere from 45 minutes to 2 hours depending on your starting point and the train you take. The quickest way is to take a direct train from Odawara Station, which takes about 45 minutes.
If you’re starting from Yokohama, you’ll need to transfer at Odawara, which adds about 30 minutes to the trip.
If you’re looking for a more scenic route, you can take the Hakone Tozan Railway from Odawara Station, which winds through the mountains and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. This route takes about 90 minutes, but it’s definitely worth the extra time.
Once you arrive in Hakone, there are plenty of things to see and do, including soaking in hot springs, exploring the beautiful gardens, and taking a scenic boat ride on Lake Ashi.
What are some must-try local dishes in Yokohama?
Yokohama is a food lover’s paradise, and there are plenty of local dishes that you simply can’t miss out on.
Start with the famous ‘shumai,’ a pork dumpling that’s steamed and served with soy sauce and mustard.
You should also try the ‘yokohama curry,’ a spicy Japanese curry that’s been around since the early 1900s.
Another must-try is the ‘ramen,’ a noodle soup dish that’s popular all over Japan but has its own unique twist in Yokohama.
Finally, don’t leave without trying the ‘chinatown steamed buns,’ filled with juicy pork and vegetables.
These dishes are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Yokohama’s culinary scene, so be sure to explore and try as much as you can.
Is there a cable car or ropeway available to reach the top of Mount Takao?
Yes, there is a cable car and ropeway available to reach the top of Mount Takao. The cable car takes you up halfway, where you can then transfer to the ropeway to reach the summit.
This is a popular option for those who want to enjoy the stunning views of the mountain without the hassle of hiking all the way up. The cable car and ropeway are both operated by the Keio Corporation and run from early morning to late afternoon. Be sure to check the schedule beforehand to plan your trip accordingly.
Once you reach the top, you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area, visit the temple and shrine, and even grab a bite to eat at one of the restaurants. It’s a great way to spend a day trip from Kanagawa and experience the beauty of Mount Takao.
Conclusion
Well done! You’ve now discovered some of the most scenic day trip destinations from Kanagawa.
Kamakura, with its ancient temples and shrines, is perfect for history buffs.
Enoshima, with its beautiful beaches and island views, is perfect for nature lovers.
Hakone, with its hot springs and stunning views of Mount Fuji, is perfect for those seeking relaxation.
Yokohama, with its vibrant atmosphere and delicious food scene, is perfect for anyone who wants to experience a modern Japanese city.
And finally, Mount Takao, with its scenic hiking trails and breathtaking views of Tokyo, is perfect for adventure seekers.
No matter what your interests are, these day trip destinations from Kanagawa have something for everyone.
So pack your bags, get ready to explore, and enjoy the beauty of Japan!
