Things To Do
in Kawasaki
Kawasaki, located in the Kanagawa Prefecture of Japan, is a prominent industrial city nestled between Tokyo and Yokohama, making it a key player in the Greater Tokyo Area. It is famous for its diverse cultural landscape, which includes traditional festivals like the Kanamara Matsuri, and modern attractions such as the Kawasaki Daishi Temple and the innovative Fujiko F. Fujio Museum, dedicated to the creator of Doraemon.
Despite its industrial roots, Kawasaki offers pockets of greenery and waterfront areas along the Tama River, providing a blend of urban and natural environments.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $80
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the Kawasaki Daishi Temple, a sacred site known for its beautiful architecture and soothing atmosphere. Take a stroll in the nearby gardens to enjoy the tranquility before the crowds arrive.
Head to the Kawasaki Warehouse, a unique entertainment complex resembling a dilapidated warehouse. Spend your afternoon playing arcade games or enjoying the themed attractions.
Wrap up your day with a delicious dinner at a local izakaya, where you can savor traditional Japanese dishes. Explore the vibrant nightlife around the area and grab a drink to unwind.
Visit the Ikuta Ryokuchi Park in the morning for a refreshing walk among the lush greenery. Enjoy the scenery and spot some unique wildlife as you explore the park's paths.
After lunch, visit the Tamagawa Josui Historic Site to learn about the history of the region while enjoying a peaceful environment. Don't forget to take some pictures of the charming canals.
Dine at a riverside restaurant with views of the sunset. It's the perfect spot to relax and reflect on the day's natural beauty.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Kawasaki is strategically located between Tokyo and Yokohama, making it a convenient place for commuters working in both cities.
- The city boasts a rich industrial history and is home to numerous corporations, providing ample job opportunities.
- Kawasaki has a variety of cultural attractions, including the Kawasaki Daishi temple and several museums.
- The city has beautiful parks and waterfront areas, offering recreational activities and relaxation spots.
- Kawasaki hosts various annual festivals and events, enriching the local culture and community spirit.
- As a heavily industrialized area, Kawasaki may suffer from pollution and environmental concerns.
- Public transportation, while generally efficient, can be congested during peak hours due to the influx of commuters.
- Housing costs in certain areas may be high, especially for those looking for proximity to Tokyo.
- The city may lack some of the more traditional Japanese cultural experiences found in other regions.
- Kawasaki can be seen as less attractive compared to neighboring cities like Tokyo or Yokohama, which may affect tourism.
Best Activities in Kawasaki
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy cycling, walking, or picnicking along the beautiful Tama River, which runs through Kawasaki. There are also boat cruises available during certain seasons.
Visit the Kawasaki Daishi temple and its surrounding area for a peaceful and culturally enriching outdoor experience. The temple grounds are adorned with beautiful gardens and traditional architecture.
Explore the Nihon Minka-en open-air museum, which features a collection of historic Japanese houses and gardens, providing a serene and educational outdoor setting.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kawasaki with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kawasaki
Visit one of these nice places.
Picturesque river with views of the city skyline and cherry blossoms during spring.
Scenic valley with a tranquil atmosphere, lush greenery, and a beautiful waterfall.
A Buddhist temple with stunning architecture and beautiful gardens, offering panoramic views of the city.
An open-air museum showcasing traditional Japanese buildings and landscapes, perfect for photography enthusiasts.
Food in Kawasaki
Kawasaki Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Savor the authentic flavors of Kawasaki through a steaming bowl of tonkotsu or shoyu ramen at Yamaguchike and Kenshin
Must-Try!
Indulge in skewers of perfectly grilled chicken and other delectable bites at Toriyoshi and Sumiyakitori Yamamoto
Experience traditional sushi crafted with fresh, seasonal ingredients at Fujimi Sushi, a celebrated local spot
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kawasaki better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore this bustling street market offering a wide array of street food delicacies such as takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and various grilled skewers
Discover a vibrant market near Kawasaki Daishi Temple, featuring an array of local street food and snacks, perfect for a leisurely stroll
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Kawasaki, bowing is an important cultural norm and a sign of respect. When greeting someone, it's customary to bow as a sign of acknowledgment and politeness.
In Japanese homes, it's customary to remove your shoes before entering. When visiting someone's home or certain traditional establishments, it's important to follow this custom as a sign of respect for their space.
Being mindful of your behavior in public spaces is important in Kawasaki. Keep noise levels down, refrain from eating while walking, and adhere to proper public behavior to show respect for others.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Kawasaki with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Kawasaki
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Japan, including Kawasaki. It is generally not expected or required to tip at restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments.
In Kawasaki, Japan, payment is commonly done through cash or electronic methods such as credit cards, IC cards (e.g., Suica, Pasmo), and mobile payment systems. Many businesses and restaurants prefer cash, but larger establishments may accept credit cards. It's important to carry sufficient cash, especially when visiting smaller shops or local eateries.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Kawasaki.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for cherry blossoms, mild temperatures, and festive atmosphere with events such as the Kanamara Matsuri (Festival of the Steel Phallus)
Expect hot and humid weather, but it's a great time for outdoor festivals and events, including the Kawasaki Taishi Waterfront Fireworks Festival
Enjoy comfortable temperatures, beautiful autumn foliage, and events like the Kottouichi Antique Market
Experience cold temperatures, but enjoy winter illuminations and festive celebrations like the Kawasaki Daishi Wind Chime Market
Kawasaki at Night
Hiking in Kawasaki
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful park in the Yamato area with various trails that offer scenic views of nature and an easy hiking experience.
The Tama River path provides a flat, easy hiking trail alongside the river, perfect for leisurely walks and enjoying riverside nature.
Sengenyama Park features hilly terrain with various walking trails that take you through lush greenery and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
This trail takes you up to Nidai Kannon Temple, providing a blend of hiking and spiritual experience in the beautiful hills of Kawasaki.
Aikawa Park has several hiking paths suitable for families, along with various outdoor facilities, and is a great spot for a day hike.
Aiports
How to reach Kawasaki by plane.
Located about 15 km from Kawasaki, Haneda is one of the primary airports serving the Tokyo Metropolitan area and has a wide range of domestic and international flights.
Situated approximately 70 km from Kawasaki, Narita is the main international airport serving the Greater Tokyo Area with many long-haul flights.
A smaller airport located around 20 km from Kawasaki, primarily serving regional flights, but is also an option for travelers.
Also known as Haneda Airport, this is a major hub for domestic and international flights and is relatively close to Kawasaki.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group comprising Japanese citizens, representing the cultural and ethnic identity of the area.
Includes expatriates and immigrants from various countries, contributing to the multicultural landscape of Kawasaki.
Older adults aged 65 and above, reflecting Japan's aging population trend.
Individuals aged 15 to 29, representing a vibrant demographic engaged in education and early career stages.
Households with children under the age of 15, showing the community's family-oriented dynamics.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is one of the most popular sports in Kawasaki, with local clubs and communities actively participating in the sport.
Baseball enjoys a strong following in Kawasaki, with many youths engaging in school and community teams.
Basketball is increasingly popular among younger generations, with many schools and recreational facilities available for play.
Tennis is widely played in Kawasaki, supported by numerous clubs and courts throughout the city.
Rugby has a growing presence in Kawasaki, with local teams and events attracting participants and spectators.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kawasaki.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Several establishments in Kawasaki offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, such as vegetarian ramen at Menya Hanabi and vegan sushi at Soranoiro Nippon
While options may be limited, some restaurants like Cafe Littlebird and Organic Table by Lapaz provide gluten-free choices and are open to catering to dietary needs upon request