Nestled Between Tokyo and Yokohama, an Energetic Urban Center Thrives, Blending Industrial Pulse with Green surroundings.
In the land of the rising sun, Japan, lies an underrated city that is a breath of fresh air for travellers seeking a change from the usual tourist spots - Kawasaki. Situated between Tokyo and Yokohama, this modern city pays homage to its roots, hosting companies like Fujitsu, Toshiba, and Nippon Steel, while offering top-notch museums, a vibrant art scene, and a bustling shopping, food, and nightlife district near Kawasaki Station.
## Top Attractions
One of the city's most notable attractions is the Fujiko F. Fujio Museum, dedicated to the works of the creator of Doraemon. Visitors can immerse themselves in the world of Doraemon, with original drawings, life-size models, and even food from the manga on display.
Kawasaki Daishi (Heikenji Temple), founded in 1128, is another must-visit. Known for its tranquility and unique landscape, the temple is a great place to relax and experience Japanese culture. The annual Wind Bell Market, held in July, showcases over 800 types of wind bells from Japan, adding to the temple's charm.
Ikuta Green Space, despite being close to Tokyo, offers a serene natural environment with metasequoia trees and traditional Japanese houses. Visitors can experience indigo dyeing and explore the Taro Okamoto Museum of Art.
The Kanayama Shrine is famous for the Kanamara Festival, which celebrates fertility and love, attracting many visitors. Meanwhile, the Kawasaki Factory Night View offers a unique industrial landscape experience, with the city's factories transforming into a dazzling display of lights at night.
## Experiences
Kawasaki's culinary scene is diverse, offering a range of dining options from traditional Japanese cuisine at places like Kani Doraku to international flavors such as Indian and Italian. The city also provides comfortable hotels like the Kawasaki Nikko Hotel and Richmond Hotel Premier Musashikosugi, ensuring a convenient stay.
Despite its growing popularity, Kawasaki does not have any restrictions on tourists like Kyoto, making it an excellent choice for travellers seeking a more relaxed experience. The city is easily accessible from Tokyo, with a 15-minute train ride from Tokyo Station.
Spring and fall offer the most mild temperatures in Kawasaki, while winter can be cold and summer is usually hot, humid, and wet. Kawasaki hosts several intriguing festivals, including one of Japan's biggest Halloween celebrations and the "Festival of the Steel Phallus" at the Kanayama Shrine.
The Ataka area in Kawasaki is known for its beautiful red higan-bana flowers (cluster amalillys), and Nahiko Field features hundreds of sunflowers during certain times of the year. Surrounded by hills and mountains with picturesque rice terraces, Kawasaki's natural beauty is a testament to its charm.
As Japan continues to be a popular travel destination, Kawasaki's underrated status makes it an ideal choice for those seeking a more authentic Japanese experience without the crowds.
Travelers can explore the Fujiko F. Fujio Museum, a top attraction in Kawasaki dedicated to the creator of Doraemon, as part of their unique Japanese experience. After a day of immersion in the world of Doraemon, visitors can unwind at Kawasaki Daishi (Heikenji Temple), founded in 1128, known for its tranquility and annual Wind Bell Market. During their stay in this underrated city, travelers can also enjoy diverse culinary offerings and comfortable accommodations, making Kawasaki an excellent choice for a more relaxed travel lifestyle.
