Experiences in Kanagawa

This charming open-air museum is located in the northern part of Kawasaki City. It features 25 structures, including traditional Japanese houses (many with thatched roofs), watermills, and Kabuki stages. Behold the essence of Edo-period architecture, combining functionality and beauty. In the traditional crafts building, you can experience indigo dyeing; as well as other exhibitions, such as traditional festivals, straw craft making, folk storytelling, and various plays. Only 30 minutes from Tokyo and 40 minutes from Haneda Airport by car, this municipal Japanese folklore park is sure to engage and excite the imagination.

Ranked first among the Five Great Zen temples of Kamakura, Kencho-ji is the oldest Zen training monastery in Japan. With a complex of ten subtemples and even a temple bell certified as a national treasure Kencho Temple is sure to bring you reflection and calm. There is even a Zen meditation (Zazen) experience with English explanations. It is very popular with tourists. Free your mind of attachment to thoughts, feelings, images, and ideas during Zazen. Once inside for the experience, monks will guide you through the proper way to sit and breathe through three guided meditations lasting 15-minutes each.

Sarushima is the only deserted island in the Tokyo Bay area and is also the biggest natural island. Here you can enjoy many activities such as barbecuing, fishing, strolling around major historical ruins, and gathering shellfish. Every year from mid July to late August the beach is open for swimming. The boats to Sarushima have different capacities, ranging from 80 people to 200 people maximum (depending on the season).

The Hakone Sightseeing Cruise offers sightseeing boats that sail around Lake Ashi, a popular spot in Hakone. There are three boats: Royal II, Victory, and Vasa. Passengers can board a cruise at any of the three ports along the edge of the lake. The ports are Hakonemachi-ko, Motohakone-ko, or Togendai-ko. We recommend the cruise that leaves from Motohakone-ko, as you can view Mt. Fuji, a large torii gate, and Lake Ashi all at once. Passengers can enjoy majestic views on sunny days when the contrast between the blue sky and the sparkling surface of the lake is very beautiful.