I've stayed mainly in Kanagawa Prefecture. I will be sharing you some of the places I have been during my stay. I will highlight the most popular side trip destinations from Tokyo. The Yokohama, Kamakura, and Hakone.
Yokohama
The capital of Kanagawa Prefecture. The second largest city in Japan by population . Minato Mirai is known as the central business of Yokohama. In here, you will find the most interesting spots that the city has to offer. The bay area, observation deck, skyscrapers as well as traditional buildings maintained up to this day.
1. Cosmo World
This amusement park is famous for its Cosmo Clock 21. It used to be the tallest Ferris wheel in the world (1989 -1992). Its charges 800 yen per person and with a capacity of 480. There are rides and games for all ages.
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| I didn't get to ride the giant Ferris because the line is way too long. |
Cup Noodles Museum
Learn about the makings of the famous cup noodles. Opens from 10am to 6pm. Adult admission fee is 500 yen while high school and below are free of charge.
Pikachu Outbreak
Usually happens in the month of August. Watch the amazing parade of a massive number of Pikachu. A free event available day and night.
2. Red Brick Warehouse
A wide cultural shopping center in Yokohama. I have seen some souvenir shops, traditional stuff, jewelry store, and a food court. Outside the building is an open space for you to walk, roam around, take pictures and enjoy the view of the Yokohama bay.
Art Rink in Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse
Admission Fee
Adult - 700 yen
children - 500 yen
Attendance fee - 200 yen
[Shoe rental fee - 500 yen
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| Art Rink |
3. Chinatown
The largest Chinatown in the country. A perfect sightseeing spot for some Chinese vibe. Like others, you will see temples, traditional gates, and a variety of Chinese Cuisine. I have been following their Facebook page, and I know they celebrate festivals in this area too.
4. Hakkeijima Sea Paradise
An aquatic, themed, leisure park conveniently located in the metropolitan area. It's not too crowded when we went there. I have seen a polar bear, seal, penguins, and other sea creatures from their huge aquarium. They have rides like other amusement park. The food court has many choices too, you can enjoy a nice view while eating. Ticket price is about 5000 yen for adults.
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| Aqua Resorts |
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| a view near the entrance of the park |
Kamakura
Located in South of Tokyo. Due to increasing number of tourist, they passed a law asking visitors not to eat while walking in crowded places. Japanese are known for their cleanliness. Tourists must respect their request. It's pretty easy to do.
1. Great Buddha of Kamakura (Daibutsu)
One of the most famous icons of Japan. This statue is located in Kotoku-in Temple. There are many tourists and devotees visiting every now and then. You will have to pay an admission fee of 200 yen.
2. Hokokuji Bamboo Garden Kamakura
The grove with 2000 bamboos in the backyard of Hokokuji Temple. It is best to visit early in the morning to avoid the crowd. Admission fee is about 300 yen.
Slam Dunk
If you are an anime fan and happen to be in the area, you may go to Kamakurakokomae station. The railroad crossing is famous for the scene in the the opening of Slamdunk. A manga series who's main character is Hanamichi Sakuragi.
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| Credits to Crunchyroll |
Hakone
A town in west of Tokyo. They are famous for onsen or hot springs. I have seen a lot while on our way up the valley. I find it a bit scary at first because the roads are steep. Hakone is a mountainous area.
1. Owakudani Black Eggs
The great boiling valley is a result of the explosion of Hakone volcano. Aside from the scenic view, this is also popular for the eggs boiled naturally in the hot spring ponds of Owakudani. They say eating black egg adds seven years to your life. I've asked my students about that, but they seem to be clueless about it.
2. Hakone Ropeway
An ideal outdoor activity for the whole family. From above, you will see the view of the valley and if you are lucky, you can also enjoy the majestic Mt. Fuji. The ride ranges from 1400 yen - 2500 yen round trip.
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| Cable car |
Miura
I added this place because I remember we went here for the early cherry blossoms sight seeing. Cherry trees usually blooms from March to May, but this picture was taken in February. It was beautiful view that even locals are excited every year.
Yokosuka
A city where an American base is located, the Yokosuka Naval Base. According to wiki, it's population is decreasing. Foreign citizens in Yokosuka are mainly Filipinos, Koreans, Chinese,and Americans. I was lucky to experience winter, spring, summer and fall. This is where I had my first snow.
For someone who grew up in a tropical country. Seeing a white wonderland was a dream.
1. Kurihama Flower Park
There's no entrance fee but if you want to ride on their flower train, you will have to pay about 300 yen per person for one way. I would say the best time to visit is during spring or autumn, so the weather will not be too hot.
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| Flower Park |
2. Godzilla Slides
3. Mikasa Battleship
A walking distance from Yokosuka naval base. A relaxing place for a walk and watch the water fountain show. The park is free, but if you want to see their historical battleship, there will be a small fee.
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| At the deck of the Mikasa Battleship |
4. Yokosuka Friendship day
They have this Japanese and American Friendship day every year. I really enjoy this event because I was able to know more about Japan. It's amazing to see a deep bond between the two countries.
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| Japanese Calligraphy/ Shuji |
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| My first Kimono experience |
One of the reasons why I enjoy teaching Japanese is that I love their country. The culture rich experience and countless picturesque spots to visit. I have seen a few, and I would love to come back for more.
The best education I have ever received was through travel. – Lisa Ling.
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