Just south of Tokyo, Kanagawa Prefecture packs a punch with its mix of meaningful cultural experiences and off-the-beaten-path adventures. The standout tours here cut through the tourist traps to deliver authentic Japanese moments. I’m particularly fond of the private Sarushima Island cruise – it’s the perfect escape from urban Japan, with its mysterious ruins and pristine beaches. The Slam Dunk anime tour through Kamakura cleverly combines pop culture with historical sites, while the hands-on cooking experiences in Hayama give you real insight into local food traditions. These are the kind of experiences that turn a regular vacation into something special. Let’s explore the top tours that make Kanagawa worth your time.
Key Points
- Sarushima Island and Naval Port Tour offers a private guided experience with snacks, lunch, and cruise tickets, highlighting uninhabited islands and naval facilities.
- Slam Dunk Locations and Kamakura Sights Tour provides a personalized exploration of iconic anime locations and historic Kamakura sights with private transportation and lunch.
- Hayama Cultural and Culinary Tour presents a personalized experience exploring local culture and cuisine, including omikuji and delicious snacks.
- Yakitori Culinary Tour focuses on traditional Japanese skewered meats and the local culinary scene, with a certified guide and private transportation.
- Homemade Takoyaki and Supermarket Tour offers a hands-on experience making takoyaki and insights into Japanese grocery shopping and culinary traditions.
Although the tour takes place in Kanagawa Prefecture, the main highlights are a private tour of the uninhabited Sarushima Island and a cruise around the nearby naval port.
Starting at 9:30 AM, the tour departs from Shioiri Station, meeting a licensed local guide who’ll accompany participants throughout the day. The tour includes snacks, two pieces of yakitori, and lunch, as well as tickets for the naval port cruise and round-trip ferry to Sarushima Island.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly, although infants must sit on laps. Travelers with back problems, pregnant women, and those with serious medical conditions are advised against joining. A moderate level of physical fitness is required, as the tour involves walking.
Read our full review: Private Tour on Uninhabited Island and Cruise of Naval Port Review
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Private Tour in Slam Dunk Locations and Kamakura Sights
This private tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through the iconic locations featured in the beloved anime and manga series, “Slam Dunk,” as well as the historic sights of Kamakura.
Priced at $131.16 for up to 4 people, the tour includes private transportation, lunch, gratuities, and parking fees. Guests will be picked up at Fujisawa Station and dropped off at the designated area near the South Exit Rotary.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but infants can sit on laps. Participants can opt for pickup at other locations upon request.
Confirmation is provided at booking unless within 1 day of travel, and the tour can be canceled for free up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
With a private format, only your group will participate, ensuring a personalized and immersive exploration of Slam Dunk locations and Kamakura’s historic sights.
Read our full review: Private Tour in Slam Dunk Locations and Kamakura Sights Review
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Private Hayama Tour With Certified Guide- Local Culture&Food
Exploring the charming coastal town of Hayama with a certified local guide offers a unique opportunity to take in the area’s rich cultural heritage and culinary delights.
This private tour, which departs from JR Zushi Station, provides a personalized experience focused on Hayama’s local culture and cuisine.
During the tour, you will receive an omikuji (fortune telling paper) and have the chance to savor delicious snacks.
While the tour doesn’t include the cost of food and drinks, it promises a memorable experience for travelers seeking an authentic taste of Hayama.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is stroller-friendly.
Service animals are allowed, and the tour is conveniently located near public transportation.
However, it’s not recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions, as a moderate level of physical fitness is required.
With flexible booking options and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this private Hayama tour offers a personalized and immersive way to explore the local culture and flavors of this charming coastal town.
Read our full review: Private Hayama Tour With Certified Guide- Local Culture&Food Review
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Yakitori Tour
A popular option for foodies visiting Kanagawa is the Yakitori Tour. Priced at $104.93 per person, this private tour includes a certified guide, dinner, and private transportation.
The tour starts at 5:00 PM from Yamato Station and returns to the same meeting point. During the Yakitori Tour, guests will have the opportunity to enjoy the local culinary scene and savor the flavors of traditional Japanese skewered meats.
The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with heart problems or serious medical conditions, and infants must sit on laps. Confirmation is provided at the time of booking, and public transportation is available near the meeting point.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience, and guests can reserve now and pay later for added flexibility. With a lowest price guarantee, the Yakitori Tour offers a unique and memorable dining experience in the heart of Kanagawa Prefecture.
Read our full review: Yakitori Tour Review
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Homemade Takoyaki and Supermarket Tour
For those seeking an immersive culinary experience in Kanagawa, the Homemade Takoyaki and Supermarket Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the region’s vibrant food culture.
Hosted by Masumi, this private tour begins at Tsujido Station, just 25 minutes from Yokohama. Participants can expect to embark on a hands-on adventure, learning to craft the iconic Japanese street food, takoyaki, in a cozy setting.
The tour also includes a visit to a local supermarket, where Masumi will guide guests through the aisles, sharing insights into Japanese grocery shopping and culinary traditions.
With a start time of 11:00 am, the experience promises a full day of discovery, returning to the meeting point at the end.
Priced at $52.46 per person, this tour offers a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the start time, and guests can reserve now and pay later to secure the lowest price.
Whether you’re a foodie or simply curious about Japanese culture, the Homemade Takoyaki and Supermarket Tour is a must-try activity in Kanagawa.
Read our full review: Homemade Takoyaki and Supermarket Tour Review
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Hiking Tour in Enoshima With a Local Guide
Though nestled within Kanagawa Prefecture, Enoshima offers a scenic natural escape just a short distance from the bustling city of Yokohama. Visitors can experience the island’s natural beauty and cultural highlights on a Hiking Tour with a Local Guide.
Priced from $32.79 per person, this tour accommodates up to 8 travelers, with a start time of 9:30 AM. The meeting point is in front of the dragon statue at 1-chōme-14-8 Katasekaigan, Fujisawa.
The tour includes arcade fees, elevator fees, and snacks, while personal food expenses are excluded. Guests should note the moderate physical fitness required, as the tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or serious medical conditions.
While not wheelchair accessible, service animals are allowed, and the tour is near public transportation.
Highly rated at 5.0 stars, past participants praise the guide’s excellent English skills and the enjoyable experience, despite the challenging stairs, rewarding visitors with stunning views and historical insights.
Read our full review: Hiking Tour in Enoshima With a Local Guide Review
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Recap
Kanagawa Prefecture offers a diverse range of tours to suit any traveler’s interests. From exploring uninhabited islands and naval ports to discovering filming locations and local cuisine, there’s something for all. With knowledgeable guides and unique experiences, these tours provide an in-depth look at the region’s culture and natural beauty. Whether you’re a nature lover, anime fan, or foodie, Kanagawa has a tour that’ll make your trip unforgettable.