4 DaysJapan
Kanagawa
Your 4-day travel guide
The ideal times to visit Kanagawa are Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November). Spring offers comfortabl...
Kanagawa•4D•All
Kanagawa, Japan
Duration:4 Days
Activities:12
Best for:All travelers
Kanagawa's Secret: Hot Springs, Buddhas & Bay Views
Embark on an enchanting 4-day journey through Kanagawa Prefecture, a captivating region just south of Tokyo that beautifully blends ancient traditions with modern charm. This itinerary is specially crafted for couples, focusing on immersive cultural experiences and delightful culinary adventures, from the serene mountains of Hakone to the historic streets of Kamakura and the vibrant cityscapes of Yokohama.
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1
Hakone: Art, Nature & Relaxation
Day 1 of your journey
Begin your day by exploring Japan's first open-air museum, showcasing a vast collection of modern and contemporary sculptures set against the stunning backdrop of Hakone's natural landscapes. Don't miss the dedicated Picasso Pavilion and unique interactive exhibits.
Hakone Open-Air Museum
Why Visit
It offers a unique fusion of art and nature, providing a serene and inspiring environment for couples to explore together.
Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking through expansive grounds. Look for the 'Symphonic Sculpture' which you can enter for a unique experience.
2
Kamakura: Ancient Temples & Coastal Charm
Day 2 of your journey
3
Yokohama: Modern Cityscapes & Culinary Delights
Day 3 of your journey
4
Enoshima & Shonan Coast: Island Escape & Ocean Breeze
Day 4 of your journey
Before You Go
Essential Travel Tips
Leverage Public Transportation: Kanagawa boasts an excellent and punctual public transportation network. Consider a Hakone Free Pass for Day 1 and utilize IC cards (Suica/Pasmo) for seamless travel on other days.
Stay Connected: Rent a pocket Wi-Fi device or purchase a local SIM card upon arrival. This is invaluable for navigation, translations, and staying connected on the go.
Comfortable Footwear is Key: You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially when exploring temples, gardens, and hilly areas like Hakone and Enoshima. Prioritize comfortable shoes.
Embrace Local Etiquette: When visiting shrines and temples, observe customs like bowing before entering and purifying hands/mouth at the temizuya. On trains, keep conversations quiet.
Cash for Smaller Establishments: While major cities accept cards, smaller shops, traditional restaurants, and some temples, particularly in Hakone and Kamakura, may prefer or only accept cash.
When to Go
Best Time to Visit
The ideal times to visit Kanagawa are **Spring (March to May)** and **Autumn (September to November)**. Spring offers comfortable weather and the breathtaking beauty of cherry blossoms, while autumn provides pleasant temperatures and spectacular fall foliage. These seasons offer the most favorable conditions for exploring the diverse landscapes and cultural sites.
Local Insights & Tips
Kanagawa is a region where modern urban life harmonizes with rich historical traditions. Embrace the local culinary scene by trying regional specialties such as 'shirasu' (whitebait) in Kamakura and Enoshima, and the unique 'kuro tamago' (black eggs) in Hakone. Be prepared for crowds at popular attractions, especially on weekends and national holidays; visiting during weekdays can offer a more relaxed experience. Tipping is not customary in Japan, and exceptional service is simply part of the culture. Enjoy the blend of serene nature and bustling city life that makes Kanagawa truly special.