Overview
Kawasaki is Japan's ninth most populated city with over 1.5 million residents (2020), yet it remains largely ignored by tourists speeding between Tokyo and Yokohama. The city rewards those who stop with a Buddhist temple ranking among Japan's top three most visited during New Year, a Shinto fertility shrine hosting the famous Iron Penis Festival, and an underrated open-air museum showcasing traditional Japanese architecture.
Day Trips · Festivals · History
Before you go
Etiquette
Remove shoes when entering traditional houses at the Folk House Museum. Follow standard Japanese shrine etiquette at Kawasaki Daishi and Wakamiya Hachiman-gū.
Language
Japanese is the primary language. Basic English is more common at major stations and tourist sites. Temple and shrine staff may have limited English.
Money
Japan uses Japanese Yen (JPY). Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants in central areas. Most smaller establishments and shrines are cash-only.
Transport
JR Kawasaki Station connects directly to Tokyo and Yokohama on the Tokaido Line, typically 15-20 minutes to either city. Multiple rail lines converge here.
Weather
Kawasaki has typical Tokyo Bay weather: humid summers with temperatures reaching 30°C+, mild springs and autumns, and cool winters with occasional snow.
