Cities with history and port traditions
This category includes prefectures with cities that have a rich history shaped by their port connections and international influences. These cities have historically served as gateways to the outside world, and their maritime heritage has significantly contributed to Japan’s cultural and economic development. Today, they are thriving hubs of trade, culture, and history, where visitors can explore historical districts, harbor views, and enjoy a blend of traditional and modern Japanese life.
Kanagawa Prefecture
Kanagawa is home to Yokohama, Japan's second-largest city and a key port city with a deep maritime history. Yokohama was the first port to open to international trade during Japan's period of isolation in the 19th century. The city's waterfront area, Minato Mirai, is now a bustling commercial district with modern skyscrapers, museums, and shopping centers. You can also visit the historic Yokohama Chinatown, the largest in Japan, and the beautiful Sankeien Garden, which blends traditional Japanese aesthetics with nature. Yokohama, together with nearby Kamakura, offers a unique combination of seaside beauty, historic temples, and cutting-edge urban life.
