Kanto

Overview & Character

The Kanto region is Japan’s beating heart — where futuristic skylines, historic temples, world-class cuisine, and natural escapes all come together. From the energy of Tokyo and Yokohama to the quiet shrines of Nikko and the flower fields of Ibaraki, Kanto offers a complete introduction to Japan. It is the political and economic centre of modern Japan, but it also has historical, spiritual, and natural layers that are often overshadowed by Tokyo’s glitter. Its diversity is high — beaches, mountains, shrines, urban megacity.

Prefectures of Kanto

Tokyo
Japan’s capital is a city of contrasts. Wander through the traditional streets of Asakusa before heading to the dazzling lights of Shinjuku. Discover Shibuya’s world-famous scramble crossing, shop in Ginza, dive into pop culture in Akihabara, or relax in lush parks like Ueno and Yoyogi. Tokyo is also a gateway to day trips — such as Mount Takao, Tokyo Disneyland, and the Tama area.

Kanagawa
Just south of Tokyo, Kanagawa blends coastal beauty and cultural depth. Yokohama, Japan’s second-largest city, offers the modern Minato Mirai district, a giant Ferris wheel, and the country’s biggest Chinatown. Nearby Kamakura is known for its Great Buddha and Zen temples, while Hakone is one of Japan’s top hot spring resorts, offering open-air baths with views of Mount Fuji.

Chiba
Best known for Narita International Airport, Chiba is more than just a transit hub. Families flock to Tokyo Disney Resort, while surfers head to the long Kujukuri Beach. The Boso Peninsula features rugged coastlines and flower fields, and Narita’s historic temple town offers a glimpse of traditional Japan. Chiba is also home to Naritasan Shinshoji Temple, visited by millions each year.

Saitama
Just north of Tokyo, Saitama offers easy access to the capital but has plenty of charm in its own right. Kawagoe, nicknamed “Little Edo,” features historic warehouses and traditional candy shops. Omiya is a hub of bonsai culture with its Bonsai Art Museum. For shopping lovers, Koshigaya Laketown is Japan’s largest shopping center. Saitama also boasts lush natural escapes like the Chichibu region, with hiking, shrines, and seasonal flower parks.

Gunma
A landlocked prefecture known for its hot springs and mountains, Gunma is one of Japan’s best onsen destinations. Kusatsu Onsen is consistently ranked among the country’s top hot spring resorts, while Ikaho and Minakami are also famous for baths and nature. In winter, Gunma becomes a popular ski area, and in autumn, its mountain passes turn fiery red with leaves.

Tochigi
Tochigi is synonymous with Nikko, a UNESCO World Heritage site with ornate shrines and natural beauty — waterfalls, mountains, and scenic lakes. The Nasu Highlands are popular for hiking, hot springs, and family-friendly attractions. Tochigi is also known for Utsunomiya, Japan’s “gyoza capital,” offering delicious dumpling-filled streets.

Ibaraki
Often overlooked, Ibaraki rewards visitors with spectacular seasonal beauty. Hitachi Seaside Park is famous worldwide for its flower displays, including blue nemophila in spring. Kairakuen Garden in Mito is one of Japan’s top three landscape gardens, especially during plum blossom season. The rugged coastline and Mount Tsukuba also make Ibaraki a diverse outdoor destination.

Highlights & Experiences in Kanto

Explore Tokyo’s neighborhoods, each with its own character and culture.
Enjoy onsen and art in Hakone while soaking in Fuji views.
Visit Nikko’s shrines and Lake Chuzenji for nature and history combined.
Shop at Japan’s largest malls or discover traditional streets like Kawagoe.
See spring flowers at Hitachi Seaside Park or autumn colors in Nikko.

Food & Drink

Kanto’s dining is as varied as its landscapes. Tokyo is home to the most Michelin-starred restaurants in the world, while Kanagawa offers seaside dining with fresh seafood. Tochigi is beloved for gyoza, Chiba for peanuts and seafood, Gunma for hearty mountain cuisine, and Saitama for udon noodles.

Why Visit Kanto?

Kanto offers everything in one region: a dynamic mix of world-class cities, historic sites, beautiful coastlines, and mountain retreats. Whether it’s your first trip to Japan or a return visit, Kanto is a perfect base to explore the country’s diversity.