What is Kanagawa Prefecture?

Kanagawa Prefecture is located in the southwestern part of the Kanto region and is a region with a wide variety of attractions. Its origins date back to the opening of Kanagawa Port in 1986, at the end of the Edo period. This is where the shogunate set up the Kanagawa Magistrate's Office upon the opening of the port, and can be said to be the beginning of modern Kanagawa Prefecture.

Kanagawa Prefecture has a total area of ​​2,416.17 square kilometers, occupies a corner of the Tokyo metropolitan area, and has a total population of approximately 9.23 million people (as of May 1, 2023). The region's diversity is also evident in its geographical characteristics.

The eastern part of the prefecture, centered on Yokohama City, is home to many vibrant companies and forms part of the Keihin Industrial Zone. On the other hand, in the western part of the prefecture, the Tanzawa Mountains, the Ashigara Mountains, and Mt. Hakone are surrounded by lush greenery, and Odawara City, the historic castle town of Odawara Castle, is located on the Ashigara Plain, where the Sakawa River flows.

Kanagawa Prefecture also has many attractions in terms of tourism. You can enjoy beautiful cityscapes such as Yokohama Minato Mirai 21 in the new city center, Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse, and Motomachi/Yokohama Chinatown. Furthermore, there are mountain and sea resorts such as Hakone and Enoshima, which are visited by tourists from all over Japan.

Three handpicked sightseeing locations in Kanagawa Prefecture

1. Samukawa Shrine

● Attractions

Samukawa Shrine is known for its spacious precincts and lush environment, offering a serene atmosphere to its visitors. Surrounded by beautiful nature, the shrine provides a peaceful place for reflection and relaxation. The main hall and worship hall are excellent examples of traditional Japanese architecture, captivating many tourists with their elegant construction.

In addition to worship, the shrine hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, offering opportunities to experience local culture and traditions. The area around Samukawa Shrine is ideal for strolling, with many souvenir shops and eateries along the approach, providing enjoyable experiences for visitors.

● History

The history of Samukawa Shrine is very ancient, and although the exact year of establishment is unclear, it is said to have been worshipped as a deity protecting the ancient provincial government office. Over its long history, the shrine has undergone numerous renovations and restorations. Especially during the Edo period, it was protected by the shogunate and established its status as an important shrine attracting many worshippers.

There are several important cultural properties within the precinct, each telling the story of the shrine's historical and cultural significance. Samukawa Shrine has also been a center of faith for the local community, significantly influencing the regional society over the years.

● Access

• Address: 3916 Miyayama, Samukawa-cho, Koza District, Kanagawa Prefecture
• Access by car: Parking available nearby.
• Access by train: About 15 minutes on foot from Samukawa Station on the JR Sagami Line.
• Google Maps: Samukawa Shrine
• Official Website: Samukawa Shrine Official Website

3. The Great Buddha of Kamakura

● Attractions

The Great Buddha of Kamakura (Kotoku-in) is a historic temple located in Kamakura City, Japan, and is home to a magnificent bronze statue of the Great Buddha. This statue boasts an impressive scale with a sitting height of about 11.3 meters and a weight of approximately 121 tons, making it one of Japan's most renowned tourist attractions and drawing attention from around the world.

Surrounding the Great Buddha is a spacious garden, where visitors can experience a fusion of history and art in a tranquil atmosphere. Additionally, it is possible to enter inside the Great Buddha, offering a unique opportunity to closely observe its immense structure.

● History

While not as large as the Great Buddha of Nara's Todai-ji Temple, the Great Buddha of Kamakura has retained its original appearance since its construction, holding significant value in the history of Japanese Buddhist art. According to the "Azuma Kagami," the construction began in 1252, initiated by the monk Joko who also led the fundraising efforts. The original hall housing the statue was damaged in strong winds in 1334 and 1369, and by an earthquake in 1498. It was later restored in the mid-Edo period with the support of a merchant from Asakusa, Shonin Nogami. Today, the Great Buddha of Kamakura continues to draw the devotion of many Buddhists.

Kotoku-in is a temple of the Jodo (Pure Land) sect, founded by the priest Honen. Honen preached salvation for all people and devotion to Amitabha Buddha. According to his teachings, devotion to Amitabha Buddha leads to rebirth in the Pure Land, forming the core of Jodo sect beliefs.

● Access

• • Address: 4-2-28 Hase, Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture
  • By car: Parking available nearby.
  • By train: About a 5-minute walk from Hase Station on the Enoden Line.
  • By bus: About 10 minutes by bus from the east exit of Kamakura Station.
  • Google Maps: The Great Buddha of Kamakura
  • Official Website: The Great Buddha of Kamakura Official Website