Kanagawa Prefecture

Nestled amidst ancient cedars on the shores of Lake Ashi, Hakone Shrine offers a serene spiritual experience and a stunning photo opportunity with its iconic 'floating' torii gate. Visitors praise its tranquil atmosphere, historical depth, and the picturesque setting that blends nature with traditional Japanese architecture.

The Kanamara Matsuri Festival in Kawasaki is an annual spring event celebrating fertility, prosperity, and protection from illness, famously featuring phallic imagery. Visitors can experience a vibrant parade with large phallus-shaped mikoshi, enjoy themed street food, and participate in a festive atmosphere that blends ancient traditions with modern revelry.

Step into the whimsical world of Doraemon at the Fujiko F. Fujio Museum, a heartwarming tribute to the beloved cartoonist. Visitors consistently praise the immersive exhibits, original artwork, and delightful themed cafe, making it a nostalgic journey for fans of all ages.

Step into a nostalgic 1950s Tokyo streetscape at the Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum, where you can explore the history of ramen and sample diverse regional varieties from across Japan. This unique indoor theme park combines culinary delight with an immersive historical atmosphere, making it a popular spot for both foodies and families.

Yokohama Cosmo World is a vibrant amusement park known for its iconic Cosmo Clock 21 Ferris wheel and thrilling rides like the Vanish! roller coaster. Visitors appreciate its free entry and pay-per-ride system, allowing for a flexible experience, especially enjoyable in the evening for stunning city and bay views.

Hokokuji Bamboo Grove is ideal if you're tired of crowds and architecture. If you arrive right at opening, there's a chance to stroll the grove's paths alone and quietly enjoy tea. Entrance is 400 yen; matcha with traditional sweets is 600. If you plan to visit Kyoto as well, you can skip its famous bamboo grove — it's very crowded there.

Shichirigahama is a 7-kilometer stretch of black-sand coastline in Kamakura, famous as one of Japan's 100 best beaches and a pilgrimage site for anime fans (Slam Dunk, Squid Girl). Visitors consistently praise the dramatic sunset views, the retro Enoden coastal railway, and the relaxed atmosphere with cafes and shops, though the beach itself is often cluttered with seaweed and debris.

If you get off a little before Kamakurakōkō‑Mae Station, you can watch local surfers — they usually hang out on Yuigahama and Shichirigahama beaches.

The town lies on the shore of Sagami Bay, along which runs a scenic railway line served by a small retro train of two carriages. The most famous station is Kamakurakōkō‑Mae — where the tracks run close to the shore — and passing trains look very picturesque against the sea.