Kanagawa Prefecture

Kanagawa Prefecture is located in the southwestern part of Japan’s Kanto region, with its capital in Yokohama City. With a population of about 9.2 million, it is Japan’s second most populous prefecture after Tokyo. The prefectural territory roughly corresponds to the entirety of the ancient Sagami Province and part of Musashi Province. It borders Tokyo and Tokyo Bay to the east, while the Tanzawa Mountains and Mount Hakone separate it from Yamanashi and Shizuoka Prefectures in the west. At its southern end, the Miura Peninsula stretches into Sagami Bay, creating a diverse and scenic landscape.

The prefecture comprises 33 municipalities, including three government-designated cities: Yokohama, Kawasaki, and Sagamihara—making Kanagawa the only prefecture in Japan with three such cities. Yokohama alone has over 3.7 million residents, making it the most populous basic municipality in Japan. The eastern part of the prefecture, encompassing Yokohama and Kawasaki, forms a major portion of the Keihin Industrial Zone. Yokohama, in particular, developed from a small fishing village into an international port city following the opening of its harbor in the modern era. The central area, including Sagamihara, Atsugi, and Ebina, is characterized by industry and new residential districts. In the west, the mountainous Tanzawa and Hakone areas boast abundant natural resources and hot spring tourism. The southern Shonan region is renowned for its coastal scenery, surfing culture, and relaxed atmosphere.

Economically, Kanagawa ranks among the top prefectures in Japan, with a gross prefectural product placing fourth nationwide. It has the second-highest number of corporate headquarters after Tokyo, and both businesses and population have long shown a net inflow, highlighting its ongoing attractiveness. Many residents live in Kanagawa but commute to Tokyo for work, a phenomenon known as “Tokyoites of Kanagawa,” giving much of the prefecture the character of a commuter belt for the capital.

In terms of tourism, Kanagawa offers both urban and natural attractions. Yokohama’s Minato Mirai 21 skyscraper district, Red Brick Warehouse, and Chinatown showcase its international flair. Kamakura, the birthplace of medieval samurai governance, is home to historic temples such as Tsurugaoka Hachimangū, Kenchō-ji, and Engaku-ji, as well as nationally designated Zen gardens. Fujisawa’s Enoshima and the Shonan Coast are iconic summer resort destinations. Hakone, with its hot springs and Lake Ashi, attracts visitors year-round and is one of Japan’s most famous hot spring resorts. The Miura Peninsula and Yokosuka retain both naval port culture and seaside landscapes, combining harbor cruises with seafood cuisine to form a growingly popular travel route.

Kanagawa also blends cultural heritage with modern urban life. Yokohama’s Sankeien Garden and the Western-style houses in the Yamate district reflect the cosmopolitan atmosphere following the port’s opening. Odawara is famous for Odawara Castle and its history in the Sengoku period. The prefecture’s highest peak, Mount Hiru (1,673 meters), is ideal for hiking, while Lake Tanzawa, Lake Miyagase, and Lake Sagami offer opportunities for recreation and water activities.