Kanagawa Prefecture

Kanagawa Prefecture is located in the southwestern part of the Kanto region of Japan and is one of the key prefectures that make up the Greater Tokyo Area. Its capital is Yokohama City, with a population of approximately 9.21 million as of February 2025, making it the second most populous prefecture in Japan after Tokyo. Covering an area of 2,416.55 square kilometers, it ranks 43rd in size nationwide. Despite its relatively small area, Kanagawa has an extremely high population density and is highly urbanized.

Geography and Terrain

Kanagawa Prefecture faces Tokyo Bay to the east and Sagami Bay to the south, while the western border is defined by the Tanzawa and Hakone mountain ranges, separating it from Yamanashi and Shizuoka Prefectures. The prefecture can be broadly divided into the following regions:

  • Eastern Region (Yokohama and Kawasaki): A highly urbanized and industrialized area forming part of the Keihin Industrial Zone. Facing Tokyo Bay, it is an economic hub where many domestic and international companies are located.

  • Shonan and Miura Peninsula Area: A warm coastal region that includes the Shonan area with cities like Fujisawa and Chigasaki, as well as the Miura Peninsula, home to Kamakura and Yokosuka. This region is rich in history, tourism, and resort attractions.

  • Western Region (Central, Ashigara, and Seisho Areas): Includes inland cities such as Sagamihara and Atsugi, as well as scenic areas like Hakone and Odawara. The region is well known for its natural beauty and is a popular tourist destination.

The highest peak is Mount Hiru (1,673 meters) in the Tanzawa Mountains. Major rivers include the Sagami River, Sakai River, and Nakatsu River. There are also many lakes, such as Lake Ashi, Lake Miyagase, and Lake Sagami, highlighting the region's unique blend of natural and urban landscapes.

Industry and Urban Functions

Kanagawa Prefecture serves as a major center of industry and economy. It is the only prefecture in Japan that hosts three designated cities: Yokohama, Kawasaki, and Sagamihara. Notably, Yokohama is Japan’s largest municipality by population, with around 3.7 million residents.

  • Industry and Commerce: As part of the Keihin Industrial Zone, Kanagawa has a diverse industrial base ranging from heavy industries like automobile manufacturing, steel, and chemicals to high-tech industries. The number of corporate headquarters relocating here ranks among the highest in Japan.

  • Tourism: The prefecture offers a wide range of tourist attractions, including urban spots like Minato Mirai 21, Red Brick Warehouse, and Chinatown in Yokohama, as well as historical and natural sites such as Hakone, Enoshima, Shonan, and Kamakura, known for hot springs and scenic beauty.

  • Residential and Commuter Belt: With excellent access to central Tokyo, the entire prefecture functions as a commuter town for the capital. The daytime-to-nighttime population ratio is around 90%, reflecting that many residents commute to Tokyo for work or study.

Climate Characteristics

Most of Kanagawa Prefecture has a humid subtropical climate, offering mild weather throughout the year. However, the climate characteristics differ between coastal and inland areas.

Eastern Region (Yokohama, Kawasaki, Shonan, Miura Peninsula)

  • Strong maritime climate influence, with relatively cool summers and mild winters.

  • High annual rainfall, with the summer season occasionally affected by typhoons.

  • Popular as a tourist and resort destination, particularly the Shonan and Miura Peninsula areas.

Western Region (Sagamihara, Central, Ashigara, Seisho)

  • Inland climate influence, resulting in hot and humid summers and cold winters.

  • Areas around the Tanzawa Mountains and Hakone have a marine west coast climate or humid continental climate, offering cooler mountain weather.

  • Snowfall is common in Hakone and around Lake Sagami, presenting a stark contrast to the milder coastal urban areas.

Summary

Kanagawa Prefecture is a region where urban development, industry, nature, history, and tourism coexist in harmony. From the metropolitan areas of Yokohama and Kawasaki to coastal and mountain resorts like Shonan, Hakone, and the Miura Peninsula, and the nature-rich regions of Tanzawa and Ashigara, Kanagawa offers a diverse array of attractions. It holds significant economic importance as part of the Greater Tokyo Area while also being a popular tourist destination drawing visitors from all over Japan.

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