Things To Do
in Kawasaki

Kawasaki, Japan, is a vibrant city situated between Tokyo and Yokohama, known for its industrial heritage and cultural attractions. The city boasts a mix of modernity and tradition, highlighted by its bustling shopping districts and historical temples. Kawasaki is also famous for its annual events, including the Ikuta River Fireworks Festival and the Kawasaki Halloween Parade.

As a growing urban center, it offers visitors a unique glimpse into both contemporary Japanese life and its rich history.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Kawasaki's Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Kawasaki Daishi, a significant temple known for its stunning architecture and spiritual atmosphere. Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast at a nearby café.

afternoon
:

Head to the Fujiko F. Fujio Museum, dedicated to the creator of the beloved Doraemon character. Explore the exhibits and enjoy a light lunch at the museum café.

evening
:

Stroll through Lazona Kawasaki Plaza, a large shopping and entertainment complex, and enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants featuring local cuisine.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Leisure
morning
:

Visit the Nihon Minka-en, an open-air museum showcasing traditional Japanese farmhouses. Take a leisurely walk around the beautiful grounds.

afternoon
:

Explore the serene Ikuta Park, where you can enjoy a picnic or rent a bicycle to ride along the scenic paths.

evening
:

Experience Kawasaki's nightlife by visiting the local izakayas (Japanese pubs) in the Nakanobu area for dinner and drinks.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$15
🍜Ramen$8
Coffee$4
🚆Train Ticket$2
🏨Hotel Night$100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Centrally located between Tokyo and Yokohama.
  • Rich cultural experiences and events.
  • Delicious local food and vibrant markets.
  • Can be crowded, especially during festivals.
  • Limited English signage in some areas.
  • Higher prices in popular tourist spots.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me
  • "トイレはどこですか?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "メニューを見せてください" - Please show me the menu.

Places to Visit in Kawasaki

Visit one of these nice places.

Kawasaki Daishi

Capture the stunning architecture and serene atmosphere of this historic temple.

Nihon Minka-en

Photograph traditional Japanese farmhouses set against a picturesque backdrop.

Ikuta Park

A beautiful park with seasonal flowers, perfect for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Kawasaki

Kawasaki is a delightful destination for food lovers, offering a variety of local specialties that reflect the region's culinary heritage. From street food to fine dining, there is something for everyone.

Kawasaki Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kawasaki Soba

A unique style of buckwheat noodles served cold with a dipping sauce.

Must-Try!

Kawasaki Curry

A local take on Japanese curry, often featuring seasonal vegetables and meat.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Kawasaki Market

A lively market where you can find fresh seafood, produce, and local snacks.

Ikuta Park Food Stalls

During festivals, food stalls serve a variety of traditional street foods such as takoyaki and yakitori.

Climate Guide

Weather

Kawasaki experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are hot and humid, with temperatures averaging between 25-35°C (77-95°F). Winters (December to February) are mild, with temperatures ranging from 0-10°C (32-50°F). Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) feature moderate temperatures, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Bowing

A common greeting; the deeper the bow, the more respect is shown.

Shoes Off Indoors

Always remove your shoes when entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments.

Quiet Public Spaces

Keep noise to a minimum on public transport and in public places.

Safety Guide

Safety

Kawasaki is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it is always wise to stay alert in crowded areas and keep personal belongings secure. In case of emergencies, dial 110 for police assistance or 119 for fire and medical services. Additionally, be aware of natural disasters such as earthquakes and flooding, and familiarize yourself with safety protocols.

Tipping in Kawasaki

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan; exceptional service is already included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are increasingly used in restaurants and shops.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Enjoy cherry blossoms in parks and temples, with mild weather ideal for outdoor activities.

Summer

Expect hot and humid conditions; participate in local festivals and enjoy fireworks.

Autumn

Witness beautiful fall foliage; the weather is cooler, making it perfect for hiking.

Winter

Temperatures drop, but the city is less crowded; enjoy winter illuminations and hot springs.

Nightlife Guide

Kawasaki at Night

Kawasaki's nightlife is vibrant, offering a mix of traditional izakayas, modern bars, and karaoke joints. The Nakanobu and Kawasaki Station areas are particularly lively, with a plethora of dining options that cater to all tastes. From casual eateries to more upscale dining experiences, you'll find something to suit your mood. Additionally, there are several clubs and live music venues for those looking to dance the night away.

Hiking in Kawasaki

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Tama River Trail

A scenic trail along the Tama River, perfect for walking, jogging, and cycling, offering beautiful views of the river and surrounding nature.

Mount Oyama

Located a short train ride away, this mountain offers multiple hiking trails with stunning views of the surrounding area and seasonal flowers.

Airports

How to reach Kawasaki by plane.

Haneda Airport

Located approximately 15 km from Kawasaki, Haneda Airport is one of the primary airports serving Tokyo, offering both domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Kawasaki is quite walkable, especially in its downtown area where major attractions, shops, and restaurants are located within walking distance. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian crossings are frequent. However, some suburban areas may require public transport or a bike to access attractions.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

Many young professionals live in Kawasaki, attracted by its proximity to Tokyo and a lower cost of living.

Families

Kawasaki is home to many families, thanks to its parks, schools, and family-friendly amenities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is extremely popular in Kawasaki, with local teams and youth leagues engaging fans of all ages.

Soccer

Soccer holds a significant place in the region, with the Kawasaki Frontale team being a major contender in the J-League.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Kawasaki can be heavy during rush hours, particularly near train stations. However, the city is well-served by public transportation, including trains and buses, making it easy to navigate without a car. The public transport system is reliable, punctual, and connects seamlessly with Tokyo and Yokohama.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kawasaki.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check with staff.

Halal Food

Halal options are available in some restaurants; it's best to ask in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Kawasaki is of high quality, with numerous hospitals and clinics available for residents and visitors. Emergency services are efficient, and many medical professionals speak basic English. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, especially for non-residents.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide