Great KanaGawa Day tripsEnjoy a variety of delightful one-day trips from Haneda Airport, Tokyo or Yokohama into Japan’s most diverse and accessible prefecture—Kanagawa

EnoshimaYokosukaOdawara

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Published by Kanagawa Prefectural Government - March 2013

KanagawaPrefecture

Jogashima Island Hiking

Course

YokohamaMiura

Kamakura

Hakone

02

1h, 10min

Mt. Fuji

Mt. Tanzawa

Mt. Ogusu

Tokyo

Shizuoka

Chiba

Sagami Bay

Tokyo Bay

Shinagawa

KamataMachida Haneda Airport

Keikyu line

Shinkansen

Odakyu line

ShonanShinjuku line

Keikyu line

Tokyo

Shinjuku

Enoshima

Lake AshiKomagatake

OdawaraHakone

Yokosuka

Miura

Kanagawa

Jogashima

Shonan Shinjuku line

KamakuraFujisawa

Yokohama

http://kanagawa-travel-info.com

if you’ve got a free day or two and are wondering what to do or where to go, you’re in luck. this guide introduces a number of enjoyable one-day trips in Kanagawa prefecture—perfect for anyone venturing out from tokyo, Haneda airport, or yokohama.

so, get ready to do a bit of traveling, and have your camera ready—you’re going to need it!

• Yokohama Station Tourist Information Center Tel: 045-441-7300 9:00~19:00 • Shin-Yokohama Station Tourist Information Center Tel: 045-473-2895 10:00~18:00 • Minatomirai Station Tourist Information Center (from Apr 1) Tel: 045-211-0111 9:00~18:00 • Yokohama Doll Museum Tourist Information Center (from Apr 1) Tel: 045-641-4759 9:30~17:00 (Closed Mon or Tues when Mon is a hol.)• Kamakura City Tourist Information Center Tel: 0467-22-3350 9:00~17:30 (Apr-Sep), 9:00-17:00 (Oct-Mar, closed Dec 29-31)• Fujisawa City Tourist Information Center Tel: 0466-22-4141 8:30~17:00• Odawara Station Tourist Information Center Tel: 0465-22-2339 9:00~17:00 (Closed Dec 29-Jan 1)• Hakone-machi Synthesis Tourist Information Center Tel: 0460-85-5700 9:00~17:45 • Tokyo International Airport Terminal Tourist Information Corner Tel: 03-6428-0652 5:30~25:00• Haneda Airport Keikyu Tourist Information Center Tel: 03-5789-8686 7:30-21:00 Weekends & Hols 9:00-17:00• Haneda AIrport JR EAST Travel Service Center http://www.jreast.co.jp/e/customer_support/service_center_haneda.html

tourist information Center

How to Get tHere

SHInAgAWA

TOKYO

TOKYO

SHInJuKu

30min

30min

1h

1h

2h

1h, 30min

•Keikyu Line or Keikyu Limosine Bus

•JR Tokaido or Keihin Tohoku or Yokosuka line

•Keikyu > JR > Hakone Tozan line

•Odakyu Romance Express

•Odakyu bus or Keikyu bus

•Odakyu bus or Keikyu bus

•Keikyu & JR Yokosuka line

•Keikyu line Limited Express

•JR Yokosuka line

HAnEDA

HAnEDA

HAnEDA

HAnEDA

YOKOHAMA

MIuRA

HAKOnE

KAMAKuRA

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The part of Kanagawa closest to Tokyo includes the great cities of Kawasaki and Yokohama, and is considered to be part of the Greater Tokyo Area. One of the most densely populated regions in the world,

it is therefore, as you might imagine, a bustling, living, breathing center of life and art, with plenty of things to do! As you go further west in Kanagawa, it becomes more rural with seascapes, mountains and hot spring spas (known as onsen) in abundance. Kamakura, Enoshima, Miura, Odawara and Hakone are the main places of interest here.

Kanagawa has quite a history. The Kamakura Shogunate (1185-1333) was one of the most famous in Japan’s history. Kamakura, as a result, became the center of culture and religion, and the city is still home to so many beautiful temples it is widely considered to be a little Kyoto.

In 1853, Commodore Matthew Perry landed in Kanagawa with his famous black ships and proceeded to force open Japan’s ports to the rest of the world. Over the next 100 years, Kanagawa thus become a source of Western life and influence in Japan. Sports, art, cuisine, engineering, transport, and technology: all of these in their many forms first made their way into Japan via Kanagawa. Things have never been quite the same since then!

Today, Yokohama and its sparkling Minato Mirai is a beehive of great architecture, wonderful museums, fantastic restaurants, one of the largest Chinatowns in the world, and a public transport system that is clean, safe and incredibly efficient. Yokohama has become a cultural and business hub, mainly due to the beauty of her port, gently rolling hills, and efficient rail and bus systems.

The Miura peninsula features beautiful seascapes, great seafood, and great hiking.

The Hakone area is famous for the abundance of relaxing and healthy natural hot water spas, where bathers can enjoy an outdoor soak under the clear blue sky and night stars.

As visitors, you will be welcomed with open arms by the people of this region; people who over the decades have come to embrace outside cultures and the delights they have brought. There is so much to do and enjoy here, and no trip to Japan would be complete without spending a few action-packed days exploring the nooks and crannies of what is Japan’s most diverse and accessible prefecture.

Course 1

Kamakura “Traditional Japan”Known as a mini version of Kyoto, Kamakura is wonderfully rich in history, religion, and authentically traditional Japanese beauty. Enjoy a few of Kamakura’s most important and truly impressive places of interest!

Course 2

Yokohama “Minato Mirai Fantasy”With its beautiful modernism, dynamic skyline and proximity to the sea, the Minato Mirai area offers up a wonderful fantasy of things to see and activities to enjoy.

Course 3

Miura “Enjoy the Sea”Enjoy the living, breathing sea! This Course offers up a wonderful combination of hiking, relaxation and beauty. And don’t forget the fresh sushi!

Course 4

Hakone “Nature” Hakone abounds in wild nature and is a hot springs wonderland. Enjoy the unique power of volcanic Owakudani Valley, the lovely beauty of Lake Ashi, the impressive shrines around every turn, and of course some stunning views of Mt. Fuji.

Pg 04~07

Pg 08~09

Pg 10~13

Pg 14~15

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Kamakura is the place to visit if you are interested in traditional Japan. The ancient temples and shrines here are too numerous

to count, and their simple, quiet beauty will wash over you and cleanse your spirit. Kamakura is also where the first samurai government was established in 1185. The very first shogun, Minamoto no Yoritomo, was handsome, fashionable and sophisticated. He built a political powerhouse that worked through logic, systems and contracts. These concepts seem quite reasonable to us now, but at the time his way—the Kamakura way— was a new style of governing in Japan and quite advanced for its time. His spirit can still be found in the residents living here today. They are cool, dignified and reliable.

Seasonal Tip: On the third Sunday of April and the 16th of September, a yabusame festival takes place at the dirt road crossing just below Hachimangu Shrine. There are interesting festival activities going on all day long, but the highlight is the yabusame—where riders on horseback dressed up in special samurai costumes thunder by the crowds of onlookers, while shooting arrows at targets set up along the path. Come early to get a good

viewing spot. You can also enjoy the walk from Kamakura Station up to the shrine along the pedestrian path (dankazura) running through the center of Wakamiya Oji Street. We recommend taking the dankazura, as several hundred cherry trees will be in full bloom—not to be missed!

A tiny tram nicknamed the Enoden (Enoshima Electric Railway), winds its way through west Kamakura. It is also quite enjoyable. The tram passes over a single track that runs between old Japanese houses soon after leaving Kamakura station. It then runs very close to the coast before finally reaching Enoshima.

Known as a mini version of Kyoto, Kamakura is wonderfully rich in history, religion, and authentically traditional Japanese beauty. enjoy a few of Kamakura’s most important and truly impressive places of interest!

Hokokuji Temple

Yabusame

Kamakura “Traditional Japan”

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1  Hokokuji Temple BamBoo GroveBamboo is rare in the west, but commonplace in the east. Even here in Japan, however, it is rare to find a grove of bamboo like this one. Enter the cool, calm collection of exquisite green, crane your neck towards the tops of the tall straight trees and feel the sun streaming in. For the full effect of its beauty, try to go early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when streams of light filter in through the trees and create a truly magical space. A walkway of small white stone wedges winds its way through the grove, allowing you to see it from various angles and perspectives. You are so close to these magnificent trees that you can actually reach out and touch them. One thing that will strike you as you look up into the tops of the bamboo is how many shades of green there are: from the deepest dark, to a cool refreshing light, green is everywhere you look! Finally, relax with a cup of traditional hot green tea, looking out over the grove. Yes, you are really in Japan!

25 min walk from kamakura stn’s east exit, or take the keikyu bus #23, #24 or #36 to jomyoji bus stop.

9:00 -16:00, close (Dec 29-jan 3) ¥200

2  TsuruGaoka HacHimanGu sHrineThe main shrine of the Kamakura Emperor, Tsurugaoka Hachimangu is located in the center of Kamakura proper. The buildings are simple and elegant, but what really catch your eye are the summer lotus ponds. In July and August, these ponds are full of the most beautiful lotus you will ever hope to see. Japanese lotus leaves are large, soft and round, and the pink or white flowers are full and lovely. The shrine is also home to traditional Japanese Shinto weddings throughout the year. Wedding party

members, decked out in full splendor—special elegant kimonos—often arrive by rickshaw. It is a true traditional Japanese spectacle.

Seasonal Tip: To beat the summer heat (and the crowds), come very early in the morning. It’s quiet and tranquil, and the air is fresh. Some people say that when lotus open in the morning, they actually make a kind of popping sound. In any case, you will be in your element as a photographer with all the time and space in the world to find those perfect shots. Lotus are sometimes very shy, so we sometimes like to get down low—below the level of the flowers—to see what we can find hiding beneath that huge canopy of green leaves. A lot of factors will influence what kinds of pictures you end up with. The angles you shoot from, combinations, background, lighting, shadow, and so on. Too much bright sunlight is not good, but a bit of sun can create interesting shadows.

10-15 min walk from kamakura stn’s east exit. From Hokokuji Temple, take bus for kamakura stn and get off at Hachimangu bus stop.

24hrs Free www.tsurugaoka-hachimangu.jp/

Bamboo grove

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Lotus

Komachi Dori StreetKamakura’s main shopping street, this is the place to do some serious souvenir shopping! no one who visits Kamakura for the first time can resist passing through Komachi-dori Street. Komachi Street is a long, narrow shopping street that leads from Kamakura Station to very near Hachimangu shrine. There is a red shrine gate at the start of the street, and many small but interesting shops here. On most days, tons of tourists jam this area of Kamakura. It really bustles! Along the street, look for traditional souvenirs such as washi paper, tenugui cloth, umbrellas, ceramic and tableware pieces, and so on. And try the purple colored sweet potato ice cream—you’ll love it!

1 min from Kamakura stn’s East Exit.

Zaimokuza BeachThe best place to shoot photos of Mt. Fuji is from the far left side of the beach in Kamakura (a 15-20 minute walk from Kamakura stn’s east exit) Mt. Fuji, with Enoshima Island sitting boldly in front of it make for a very photogenic pairing. If you are a serious photographer, this is the place to go. Winter is the best season.

Take the Keikyu bus #40 to Zaimokuza Beach bus stop, 10 min walk from bus stop.

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3  koToku-in Temple’s GreaT BuDDHaA favorite of American President Barack Obama, this magnificent mid-thirteenth-century bronze statue of Buddha is majestic and impressive. At 11.38 meters (almost 37.5 feet), the Great Buddha (or Daibutsu) sits peacefully under the open sky and stars for all to gaze at and meditate upon. Starting in the early 13th century, the Kamakura shogunate began to regulate the city’s institutions and facilities. Buddhism ruled the country in that day and age, so they first built temples at the north, south, east and west corners of Kamakura city in order to receive the protection of the gods. They then thought they needed a symbol of the newly established capital and inevitably chose the Daibutsu. Interestingly, the original Daibutsu was actually a huge wooden statue housed inside a large temple building, but it was soon destroyed by what was probably a typhoon and then again later by a tsunami. In the mid 13th century, the statue was rebuilt using a more durable bronze cast. This is the same Daibutsu that we still have with us now, making it almost 760 years old!

Come in the early morning, when the sky is clean and clear and before the crowds show up. Give yourself enough time to view the statue from various angles—you’ll see something different in the face each time.

Enoshima stn

Kamakura stnKamakura stn

Fujisawa stn

2. Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine

1. Hokokuji Temple

4. Ryukoji Temple

Kamachi Dori

5. Enoshima

Sagami Bay

Zaimokuza BeachKamakura

Prince Hotel

KamakuraPark

H

3. Kotoku-in Temple’s Great Buddha

Kamakura “Traditional Japan”

Kotoku-in Temple’s great Buddha

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Seasonal Tip: There is a Kamakura hiking trail (Daibutsu-Kuzuhara-ga-oka Course) that begins near the Daibutsu. It’s most beautiful in the autumn when the leaves are at their most beautiful. The course has fine scenery and is a relatively easy 1.5 hour hike. After visiting the Daibutsu, come out and turn right. Walk along the road towards the tunnel in front of you. On the right side of the road just before the tunnel

Enoden

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine

Sazae

Kamakura

MORNINGHokokuji Temple Enjoy the sublime bamboo grove and some frothy green teaTsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine Famous, busy shrine with summer lotus ponds

AFTERNOON & EVENINGKotoku-in Temple’s Great Buddha The “Daibutsu” statue is simply amazingRyukoji Temple Antique Market Held the third Sunday of every month. Find some real bargainsEnoshima Lots to do and see. go all the way to the top for a great view. Or visit the caves OpTIONAl SpOTS

Shonan Tatsunokuchi Antique Fair

you will find some steep steps. This is your starting point. The hike finishes near Kita-Kamakura’s Jochiji Temple.

Take the enoden from kamakura stn, 7 min walk from Hase stn.

8:00 -17:30 (apr-sep), 8:00-17:00 (oct-mar)

¥200 (adult), ¥150 (6-12yrs) www.kotoku-in.jp/en/top.html

4 sHonan TaTsunokucHi anTique FairHeld the third Sunday of every month from early in the morning until sundown at Ryukoji Temple, this is an awesome antique market. Depending on the season (and weather) you might find as many as 80 dealers plying their wares here—some quite good and others pure junk! But that’s the fun of it. There is no charge, and sellers’ tables are spread out around the temple grounds. Ryukoji itself is a fairly modest temple. It’s not really old, or really big, or really majestic like some temples are. But apparently, the space here used to be used for the carrying out of executions. In 1271, famous priest Nichiren was one second from death by execution when a lightning bolt and loud peal of thunder boomed through the sky overhead. The execution was halted and he was eventually sent into exile instead. To commemorate this miracle, the temple was established 50 years later. Just a few minutes from Enoshima, it’s a great way to start or finish the day.

Take the enoden from kamakura stn, 3 min walk from enoshima stn.

7:00 -15:00 (3rd sunday of every month)

Free

5  enosHimaYou could spend a whole day here. Enjoy the aquarium before crossing over to the island, or on the island itself visit the Iwaya Caves or the Samuel Cocking Garden at the top (beautifully illuminated at night for Valentine’s Day and from mid- to late-December). This “candle light” illumination was chosen as one of the Top 3 Illumination Displays for the entire Kanto region in 2012. The tako sembei (octopus rice crackers) sold on the shopping street slope fairly near the front of the island are a real treat!

Seasonal Tip: In the summer, Enoshima is a great place to relax on the beach and go swimming. The waves are calm and the water is warm. Food stalls and beach bars line the shore, surfers ride the waves, and young kids hang out. The main beach is located to the left of the bridge before it crosses over to the island. You probably won’t be able to see Mt. Fuji in this weather—that’s best done in the winter—but nothing’s perfect, right?!

Take the enoden from kamakura stn, 25 min walk from enoshima stn.

Enoshima Lighthouse Observation Tower

Enoshima

Komachi Dori Street Souvenir shoppingRickshaw Tour English tours availableBicycle Rental A great way to see the city (Just outside the East Exit, on the right)Kamakura Hiking Courses One course begins/finishes very near Daibutsu

GIFT

Enoshima Tako Sembei Try the tasty, local “octopus cracker”!

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Views, views, and more heart-thumping views! That’s what Yokohama’s Minato Mirai is all about. Come in the daytime, or

come at night—in either case, you won’t be disappointed. In fact, you will more than likely feel that you have stepped off the train straight into a unique fantasy world.

Getting around here is really easy. The JR Keihin Tohoku Line/Negishi Line stops at JR Yokohama, Sakuragicho, Kannai, and Ishikawacho stations. The Minato Mirai subway line, coming in from Shibuya, stops at Yokohama, Minato Mirai, Nihon Odori, and Motomachi-Chukagai stations. And a little red bus dubbed “Akai Kutsu” (Red Shoe) loops around the entire area for only 100 yen a ride! The Japanese train system is deservedly famous. These trains come frequently, and on time. They are extremely safe—even at night—so don’t hesitate to go anywhere.

Seasonal Tip: A walk along the sea is always fun and refreshing. Beginning at the water’s edge just beyond the large hotels that mark the Minato Mirai-Sakuragicho area, a series of small parks string their way along the port all the way to Yamashita Park. This makes for some very pleasant exercise, and a good place to rest, relax over coffee, or to have a picnic in the spring and the autumn.

1  lanDmark Tower sky GarDen oBservaToryLike a good observation deck should, Sky Garden offers perfect 360-degree views of Yokohama, the shining blue sea, faraway Tokyo, and even Mt. Fuji. At an impressive 273 meters, the 69th-floor vantage point is your perch in the sky!

In front of each of the huge floor-to-ceiling windows that stretch the entire side of observatory space, there are signs provided that tell you what you are looking at. Can’t quite make out Tokyo Tower or Chiba Prefecture? It’s probably a cloudy day! Wind up your visit here by relaxing in some of the comfortable chairs placed in front of the windows, sipping coffee or beer, and looking out over a vista that stretches for miles and miles. Truly breathtaking!

Seasonal Tip: For the clearest views, winter seems to be the best season, although it really depends on the day. Magnificent views of faraway Tokyo Sky Tree, or Mt. Fuji can be had during any season—if you’re lucky. Of course, Mt. Fuji is most beautiful in winter, when her peaks are capped with snow.

5 min walk from jr sakuragicho stn and 3 min walk from minatomirai stn.

10:00 – 21:00, 10:00 – 22:00 (sat and during the summer)

¥1000 (adult), ¥800 (high school and over 65), ¥500 (6-15yrs), ¥200 (4-5yrs)

www.yokohama-landmark.jp/skygarden/web/english/

2  nippon maru (scHooner)Docked just below the Landmark Tower, this gorgeous schooner nicknamed “Swan of the Pacific” adds a perfect touch of nostalgia to a cityscape that is otherwise very, very modern. Seeing her sitting there (magnificent full sail display—she has 29 sails that are featured 12 times a year) always brings a smile to visitors’ faces—what a stroke of genius! Board the ship, go below deck, and check out the

Yokohama “Minato Mirai Fantasy”

with its beautiful modernism, dynamic skyline and proximity to the sea, the minato mirai area offers up a wonderful fantasy of things to see and activities to enjoy.

Chinatown

Marine Tower

Minato Mirai

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view. It all clicks. Built in 1930 as a training vessel for the Merchant Marines, the ship served for 54 years before it was finally retired in 1984. During her 54 years in service, she was used to train over 11,000 cadets, logging almost 12 million km—a distance of more than 45 times around the earth. It is a beautiful ship with lots of finely polished wood and brass, intricate knot displays, and wide decks. The nearby Yokohama Port Museum is chock full of interesting displays, and has a gift shop selling toy ships and other clever souvenirs.

5 min walk from jr sakuragicho stn, minatomirai stn, or Bashamichi stn.

10:00 – 17:00 (last entry 16:45) ¥600 (16yrs-adult), ¥300 (13-15yrs

and over 65) www.nippon-maru.or.jp/

guidebook/201009guidebook-english.pdf

3  cosmo clock 21 (Ferris wHeel)One of the world’s largest Ferris Wheels operating inside the city’s downtown area? Wow! Go ahead, give it a try. The gondola cars are spacious enough for six people, and the 15-minute ride provides yet another stunning view of Minato Mirai and Yokohama Bay. At night, the towering wheel brightens up the sky with an incredible light show that can be seen for miles. One interesting feature is the glass-bottoms cars the gondolas are equipped with! If you want to ride one of these, just tell the staff and they’ll take care of you, but you may have to wait a bit for one to come ‘round. These, of course, are not for the faint of heart! Multilingual audio is piped into the cars and gives a good explanation of everything you are viewing.

Seasonal Tip: The Gondolas are air-conditioned in the summer and heated in the winter, so the ride is comfortable year-round.

yokohama

MORNINGSankei-en Garden Enjoy a leisurely stroll around these lovely large gardens. Opens at 9am

AFTERNOON & EVENINGLandmark Tower’s Sky Garden Enjoy the magnificent 69th floor viewNippon Maru Schooner Huge sailing ship just in front of Landmark TowerCosmo Clock 21 Ferris Wheel Enjoy another great view from hereOsanbashi Pier Enjoy a great view of Minato Mirai, the setting sun, and if you’re lucky, Mt. Fuji

OpTIONAl SpOTSCuP NOODLES MuSEuM A fun, interesting, hands-on museum. You even get to design and eat your own ramen

8 min walk from JR Sakuragicho stn or Minatomirai stn, or take the Akai Kutsu Bus to the “CuP NOODLES MuSEuM Mae” bus stopYokohama Chinatown Hundreds of great restaurants to choose fromYokohama Marine Tower Another great view of Minato Mirai and Yokohama BayYamashita Park nice park right on the bay. Boat cruises also leave from here

2 min walk from minatomirai stn or 10 min walk from jr sakuragicho stn.

11:00 - 20:00 or 22:00 (varies) ¥700 (3yrs-adult)

4  osanBasHi yokoHama inTerna-Tional pier anD passenGer TerminalAnother incredible addition to the Minato Mirai area, this pier, nicknamed “The Whale”, gives even more stunning views of the city and the sea. But here you’re out in the open on decks covered with beautiful wood planks and luscious green grass. Enjoy the strong breeze and the smell of the sea, as well as the screech of seagulls flying overhead. Sit and have a lunchtime picnic, or better yet, come in the evening and enjoy watching the sun go down, followed by the twinkling lights of one of the world’s most beautiful skylines.

Seasonal Tip: Join the professional cameramen who flock to this spot at sunset in the winter to catch perfect views of Mt. Fuji contrasted against the beautiful evening sky. But dress warmly—it can get really cold.

7 min walk from nihon odori stn (exit 3). or take the akai kutsu Bus to “osanbashi kokusai Terminal” bus stop.

rooftop plaza is open 24hrs. 2F open from 9:00 - 21:30

Free www.osanbashi.com/en/index.html

5  sankei-en GarDenThis hidden gem is a little bit far from the station, but worth the visit. Depending on the season, the views and activities change, but it’s always beautiful, and always interesting.

Take Bus #8 or #148 from jr sakuragicho stn or yokohama stn’s east exit to sankei-en bus stop. or a short taxi ride from jr yamate stn.

9:00 – 17:00 (last admission 16:30) ¥500 (adult), ¥300 (65+), ¥200

(children) www.sankeien.or.jp/pdf/guidemap_

english.pdf

GIFT

Yokohama Nassen Visit Tenugui souvenir shop on the 5th floor of Landmark Tower

1. Landmark Tower

Minatomirai stn

Sakuragicho stn Bashamichi stn

Nihon Odori stn

3. Cosmo Clock 21

2. Nippon Maru

4. Osanbashi

Osanbashi

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If you’re in the mood to get away from it all with an escape to the sea, then we recommend a jaunt down to Miura. Again, Japan’s wonderful train system

shines here: Keikyu Railways has an excellent-value one-day pass that covers all Keikyu network train and bus travel, a number of leisure activities, and a delicious fresh sushi lunch, with as much deep blue sea and bright sunshine as you can handle! The peninsula, which juts out into the most southern point of Tokyo Bay, reaching into the edge of the Pacific Ocean, is where Perry first anchored his ships in 1853. It is still a relatively unknown area for foreign tourists, mainly because the trains here do not continue all the way across to the island. Instead, buses whisk people there from the station. Road traffic can sometimes be very heavy, so the best time to visit is on weekdays. If you can only visit on a weekend, get there as early as possible.

1  misaki-ko porT Tuna aucTion, seaFooD markeT, resTauranTsSushi is one of the most popular foods worldwide. And why not—it is truly delicious. But where does all that fish

Jogashima Park

Jogashima Keikyu Hotel

Kainan Jinja Shrine

Umanose DomonUmiu Bird Sanctuary

1. Misaki-ko Port

Urari Fish Market

Miura “Enjoy the Sea”

enjoy the living, breathing sea! the miura peninsula offers up a wonderful combination of hiking, relaxation and beauty. and don’t forget the fresh sushi!

Jogashima

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come from, and how is it all handled? Observe pros plying their trade at the Misaki-ko Port auction house. Although a variety of seafood is handled here, the main catch is tuna. They open at 5:30 in

the morning, but auctions run from about 8:00 to 10:30. An observation deck on the 2nd floor puts you right there over the action. This is not one of those “shout as loud as you can auction houses”, but rather a “bid by paper” system where buyers come early to look over the fish, and then enter written bids for the catches they are interested in—highest bid wins. It’s like watching a chess match as buyers try to outsmart each other. It’s a big floor and there are a large number of auctions going on throughout the morning, so there is never a dull moment.

Next door is the Misaki Regional Fisheries Wholesale Market, also called “Urari”. Here you can sample, buy or just enjoy browsing the hundreds of kinds of seafood, both dried and fresh, for sale. It is simply amazing. For lunch, drop in at one of the numerous seafood restaurants in the neighborhood, and enjoy tuna as fresh and tasty as you are ever likely to eat! Small cruise ships (called wataribune) tour the port area a few times a day. A ride on one of these might be the best way to explore and appreciate the total beauty of the region.

Seasonal Tip: This marketplace throngs with visitors in late December when there are bargains galore to be had. Join in the excitement as sellers compete with each other in loud voices for the attention of customers who are there to pick up large volumes of fish for the New Year holidays.

A short walk away from Misaki-ko is the Kainan Jinja Shrine, a local shrine for the area’s fisherman. Every year on January 15th (Adult Day), a colorful festival takes place. It features local young ladies (beach maidens) dressed in traditional wear, taking part in various dances in the morning and afternoon.

From shinagawa stn or yokohama stn take the keikyu line to keikyu misakiguchi stn. Take a keikyu bus from there to misaki-ko bus stop, 3 min walk from misaki-ko bus stop

Tuna auction: 8:00-10:30 market: 9:00-17:00 (mon-sat), 7:00-17:00 (sun)

MORNINGMisaki-ko Port Tuna Auction The auction starts at 8:00-10:30. Market: 9:00-17:00 (Mon-Sat), 7:00-17:00(Sun)Kainan Jinja Shrine Local shrine where local fishermen go to pray. Short walk from fish market

AFTERNOON & EVENINGJogashima Hiking Course A nice walk with great views of the seaJogashima Spa Bath Enjoy a soak with a view of the sea. Located inside the Keikyu Hotel

OpTIONAl SpOTS

miura

Seafood restaurants near the fish market

Tuna auction at fish market

Misaki-ko Port

Miura fresh sushi

Freshly caught tuna

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urari Fish Market great market right next door to the tuna auction house

Jogashima Ferry Hakushu or the underwater sightseeing boat Nijiiro Sakana Located at urari Dock. Cruise the area or take the boat to JogashimaMisaki-ko Port Local Restaurants Enjoy fresh tunaMisaki Showakan Museum See what life was like in Japan back in the good old daysKeikyu Aburatsubo Marine Park and Aquarium Lots of sea animals to enjoy hereYokosuka Verny Park See battleships right in front of JR Yokosuka StationYokosuka Museum of Art great museum with a sensational view of the bay

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2  joGasHima islanD HikinG courseIf you feel like a hike after your early morning trip to the fish market, then head on over to Jogashima Island. Jogashima features a wonderful hiking course (it takes about two hours at a slow pace) connecting the eastern and western shores of the island. Along the way, enjoy craggy rock cliffs, blue ocean waves, fields of daffodils, nearby Chiba Prefecture, Misaki-ko Port, and on clear days, Mt. Fuji. A bamboo grass hedge lines both sides of the trail, but you can enjoy the view at several points where the hedge has been cut away. Two-thirds of the south seashore face a wide bare rock and craggy mountains. You can go down to the rock surface and enjoy fishing, picture drawing, and just playing around. Fill your lungs with the fresh smell of the sea.

Interestingly, before the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923, the famous Umanose Domon rock was sitting in the sea and people could pass through the hole in a small boat. But in 1923, due to the earthquake, the reef that the rock rested on suddenly elevated, and so the rock now stands about 8 meters high.

Seasonal Tips: From January to February, white daffodils along the trail give off a lovely sweet fragrance.

There are also souvenir shops, quaint restaurants, and the hotel’s spa-type hot spring outdoor bath. Don’t worry—the men’s and women’s baths are separate. This is a treat that you really should try! If you have never tried this kind of communal bath here in Japan, please remember one rule: Wash and rinse your body thoroughly BEFORE you enter the water.

5 min on the jogashima Ferry Hakushu Boat from urari. or take the keikyu bus to jogashima from keikyu misakiguchi stn.

24hrs Free

3  keikyu aBuraTsuBo marine park anD aquariumA good marine park with dolphin, seal and penguin shows, as well as a very nice aquarium. The park is a bit on the small side, and because of the animals, there are tons of kids around, but there are some quiet corners as well. There is a rest area at the far end of the park where from up on a rooftop observation deck, using high-powered binoculars for 100 yen, you can look out across at beautiful Sagami Bay and Mt. Fuji. The park’s neighborhood also includes some very nice hiking trails that wind up and down hills and valleys along the local inlets. There are not many people around, so it is peaceful and quiet—a very nice way to unwind and relax after an hour at the crowded, busy park.

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A. Jogashima Keikyu Hoteland Spa BathThe bus stops here, both the starting and ending point of the hiking course. After finishing your hike, you might want to enjoy a spa bath in the hotel, or a tasty tuna lunch at a nearby restaurant.

B. umanose Domon(Arched Rock) and CaveThis arch-like rock is eight meters high. The cave was formed through a long process of erosion. From here, the hiking course proceeds along a very rocky shoreline. Enjoy the sea breeze on your face!

C. umiu Bird Sanctuary and Observation Deck for Japanese CormorantFrom november to April, vast numbers of the unique Japanese Cormorant (the official bird of Kanagawa Prefecture) nest here.

D. Suisen Daffodil FieldThis large field of daffodils is most beautiful from Jan-Feb, when the flowers are in full bloom. The path leading up to the field is also lined with daffodils.

E. Awasaki LighthouseThis white lighthouse sits a mere two meters from the water’s edge. Its strong light reaches 20km out to sea, and 250 meters along the rocky shore.

F. Jogashima Lighthouse (Jogashima Toudai)This lighthouse, built by the Frenchman, Verny, was completed in 1870. It was Japan’s fifth lighthouse. Destroyed in the great Kanto Earthquake of 1923, it was rebuilt using reinforced concrete.

D

B

F

C

Jogashima Island Hiking Course

E

Miura “Enjoy the Sea”

A

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Keikyu Aburatsubo Marine Park and Aquarium

Seasonal Tips: In the summer, Miurakaigan Beach is the one to go to if you want to take a swim. The one-kilometer long beach features very shallow water, so the waves are gentle and the sand soft—great for young kids. Wind surfing, barbecuing, and fishing are also popular.

Summers in Kanagawa, and indeed all over Japan, are famous for the lovely local fireworks festivals. This is a real treat.

Beautiful young ladies dress up in summer kimono called yukata, and stalls are set up that sell all kinds of yummy foods and drinks. Japan has some of the most sophisticated fireworks design artists in the world, so you are in for quite a show. Be sure to show up early to grab a good viewing spot, although there’s something to be said for viewing the display from a bit farther away so that you can make a quick getaway when the final fabulous sparks of color leave the sky.

Take the keikyu Bus to aburatsubo bus stop from keikyu misakiguchi stn. 5 min walk from aburatsubo bus stop.

9:30-16:30 (weekday), 9:00-17:00 (weekend), 8:00-16:00 (jan 1), 9:00-17:00 (jan 2-3)

¥1700 (adult), ¥1300 (13-15yrs), ¥850 (6-12yrs), ¥450 (ages 4+)

www.aburatsubo.co.jp/language/english/

Kainan Jinja ShrineKainan Jinja is a local shrine for fishermen. Every year on January 15th (Adult Day), a colorful festival takes place where the gods are asked to bless the fishermen and their families. Young girls in traditional costumes take part in dances. Most famous is “Chakkirako”, performed with bamboo sticks.

3 min walk from Misaki-ko bus stop.

Yokosuka Museum of Art

Yokosuka u.S. naval base

Yokosuka

yokosuka naval Base, verny park, kannonzaki capeJust outside JR Yokosuka Station, Verny Park features a peek into the Yokosuka U.S. Naval Base. Verny, a Frenchman, came to Japan in the final days of the Tokugawa Shogunate, and then worked as a specialist for the manufacture of steel and shipbuilding right here in Yokosuka until the new Meiji government eventually took over the project.

Large warships, submarines, and other vessels line the docks in front of the park. You feel like you are suddenly in another world here. Tour boats zoom around the bay, giving you a close-up look at these sea-going giants. Jump on a bus to Kannonzaki Cape and enjoy a stroll along a boardwalk, or above the beach. The shore winds its way around the cape, providing great views. Visit the lighthouse (one of three in Miura) up on the hill for even more spectacular looks over the entire region. And climb all the way up for a majestic view of Mt. Fuji.

Just down the road is the Yokosuka Museum of Art, which former Prime Minister Koizumi cites as his favorite place in Yokosuka—the town he grew up in.

The museum, admired for its incredible architecture as well as its art exhibitions, also includes a top-notch restaurant and an outdoor deck with view of the sea. Enjoy the art, the building, the food, and the ships rolling by in the bay.

Take the keikyu bus #24 to kannonzaki cape bus stop from jr yokosuka stn. yokosuka museum of art is 5 min walk from kannonzaki cape bus stop.

opening hours vary ¥300 (adults), ¥200 (students), free

(under 16) http://www.yokosuka-moa.jp/

information_english

Misaki Showa-kan MuseumThis Showa Era museum is just a short walk from Kainan Jinja Shrine. Enjoying a peek at what life was like in Japan from the 1920s to the 1960s—a period in history when the Japanese lifestyle was still relatively simple. In the museum, rooms are displayed in the same way typical Japanese families lived, and included old TVs, old-style baths, sewing machines, clothing, tatami mat rooms, posters, and so on. Very charming!

5 min walk from Misaki-ko bus stop.

Keikyu Misaki Maguro TicketKeikyu Railways has an excellent-value one-day pass that covers all train, boat and bus travel, a number of leisure activities, and a delicious fresh maguro lunch with as much deep blue sea and bright sunshine as you can handle! (Another Freepass is provided by Izu Hakone Bus company. Ask at the their bus terminal for more details)

Adults ¥2980 (from Shi-nagawa) ¥2880 (from Yokoha-ma) Children ¥2240/¥2190

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A trip to Hakone will leave you refreshed and wanting more! There is much to see and do here besides soaking in the therapeutic hot springs. Situated near Mt. Fuji, the entire area is remote and refreshing, yet still close enough to Tokyo to visit and enjoy in a day.

The Hakone Freepass is an “all-in-one” ticket that allows you to use 7 different means of transportation, including the Hakone Ropeway and Japan’s oldest mountain railway, the Hakone Tozan Line—all starting from Tokyo. Most visitors to Hakone get there by train, either from Shinjuku on the Odakyu Line, or Odawara (JR Tokaido Line) and from there to Hakone Yumoto Station by local train. The pass is available at any Odakyu Line stations in Tokyo and Kanagawa. Another Freepass is provided by Izu Hakone Bus company. Ask at the their bus terminal for more details.

Hakone is also known for its wood craft products, yosegi-zaiku. These wood boxes and chests are created in traditional mosaics or inlaid patterns. Hakone has also been designated as one of the GeoPark Projects in Japan. And don’t miss seeing the famous Fujiya Hotel, a classic Western style hotel that can boast of being visited in its heyday by the likes of Charlie Chaplin, Helen Keller, and John Lennon and Yoko Ono.

Seasonal Tip: A visit to a hot springs spa or hotel (there are many to choose from in Hakone) is probably best done in the winter. The water is often very hot—too hot for the summer season!

1  owakuDani (Hakone ropeway)Ride in over the valley on the Hakone Ropeway and be ready to feel amazed and a bit scared: This region is extremely volcanic, and there is no better place to feel the power of the earth than here. Hot steam pours out of vents everywhere, creating a unique, bleak atmosphere. Hike up the mountain a bit to see it all up close, and be sure to eat the region’s famous black eggs that are boiled in steaming hot natural sulphur pools.

Take the Hakone Tozan line from Hakone yumoto stn, switch to the Hakone Tozan cable car at Goura stn for sounzan stn. Then take the Hakone ropeway to owakudani stn.

8:30-17:00 ropeway day pass: ¥2340 www.owakudani.com/index-e.html,

www.hakoneropeway.co.jp/foreign/en/index.html

Hakone “Nature”

Hakone abounds in wild nature and is a hot springs wonderland. enjoy the unique power of volcanic owakudani Valley, the lovely beauty of Lake ashi, the impressive shrines around every turn, and of course some stunning views of mt. fuji.

Owakudani

Hakone

Sightseeing cruise

MORNINGOwakudani Come in over the valley on the Hakone RopewayLake Ashi Enjoy a stroll along the shore or try a row boatMt. Komagatake Ropeway up to the top of the mountain. Shrine and incredible view of entire Hakone-Odawara region AFTERNOON & EVENINGSightseeing Cruise Take a replica pirate boat ride to the end of the lakeRow Boats Take a swan-shaped boat onto the lakeHakone Jinja Shrine Magnificent ancient cedar treesNarukawa Museum High up on a hill with views of Lake Ashi and Mt. Fuji OpTIONAl SpOTSHot Spring Baths Many inns and hotels feature great bathsFujiya Hotel Japan’s most famous classic western styleOpen Air Museum Fascinating art displayed outside in nature

Odawara Castle Climb to the top of this castle-museum or enjoy Samurai Cosplay

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2  lake asHiLake Ashi is 723m above sea level, and 21.1km around. Because of the easy access from Tokyo, her great beauty, and the breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji sitting majestically above the lake, the entire Lake Ashi area is well developed and has become one of Japan’s most popular hot springs resort areas. Stay at a hotel on her shores, have lunch overlooking the clear water, or enjoy a boat ride from one end to the other.

Take the Hakone ropeway to Togendai stn from sounzan stn or owakudani stn. 10 min walk from the stn.

3  mT. komaGaTake ropewayMt. Komagatake is a mountaintop shrine standing under the gaze of Mt. Fuji. You reach it by glass-enclosed ropeway cars from Hakone-en. Going up and facing the mountain, you’ll see Mt. Fuji and other Hakone mountains on the left; Odawara, Yokohama, Ohshima Island, and Sagami Bay on the right; and Lake Ashi and Suruga Bay behind you. Below is a forest of Japanese cedars. The shrine, red and beautiful against the deep blue sky, is best to visit in the morning when priests are chanting and the air in the entire region is crisp and clear.

10 min walk from Togendai stn to lake ashi. Take the Ferry at lake ashi kojiri Terminal to Hakone-en Terminal. 5-10 min walk from Hakone-en Terminal.

9:00 – 17:00 ¥1050 (adult), ¥530 (children)

(roundtrip) www.izuhakone.co.jp/ropeway_

e2.pdf

4  Hakone jinja sHrineHakone Shrine is a famous “power spot”, and people who visit say that they sense the presence of a divine being all over the area. The approach to the shrine is

lined with huge, truly impressive cedar trees that are over 800 years old. They create an atmosphere of wonder and beauty. They purify the shrine’s grounds and create a holy environment, pure and majestic.

Take the Ferry on lake ashi to moto Hakone-ko Terminal. 5 min walk from the Terminal. or take the Hakone Tozan Bus from Hakone yumoto to moto Hakone-ko bus stop . 10 min walk from the bus stop.

24hrs Free

5  oDawara casTleClimb to the top of this castle-museum or enjoy Samurai Cosplay. Odawara is a rather sleepy town in Kanagawa except for its historic castle, which is beautiful in the springtime around cherry blossom season and full of life year round. The castle itself is a replica, and has been turned into a museum with lots of samurai swords and other paraphernalia of the age. There is also a costume shop in front of the castle that rents out kimonos and samurai uniforms—a lot of fun!

Take the odakyu or jr Tokaido line to odawara stn. 10 min walk from the stn.

9:00 – 16:30 ¥400

Narukawa Art Museum

2. Lake Ashi

1. Owakudani

Hakone Yumoto stn

Odawara stn

SagamiBay

Ferry Terminal

5. Odawara Castle

4. Hakone Jinja Shrine

3. Mt. Komagatake Ropeway

GIFT

Hakone Wooden Mosaic Doll Figurine Ballpoint Pen Take home a fine pen of traditional Japanese craftsmanship

Lake Ashi