Kanto, Japan Travel Guide

Explore the Kanto region in Japan, where ancient traditions meet modern wonders amidst vibrant cities, historical sites, and natural beauty.

The Kanto region, located on the eastern side of Japan's main island Honshu, offers a perfect blend of traditional Japanese culture and cutting-edge modernity. Home to Tokyo, the bustling capital city, Kanto is a must-visit for any tourist looking to experience the best of Japan. In Tokyo, you can wander through ancient temples like Senso-ji in Asakusa, then dive into the ultra-modern districts of Shibuya and Shinjuku where neon lights and skyscrapers dominate the skyline. A short train ride from Tokyo will take you to the historic city of Kamakura, which is famous for its grand Zen temples and the iconic Great Buddha statue. For nature lovers, the region boasts the scenic beauty of Nikko, where you can explore the lavishly decorated Toshogu Shrine and the serene Kegon Falls. The Kanto region also offers a range of culinary delights, from street food in bustling markets to high-end dining experiences. In addition to its historical sites and natural beauty, Kanto is also a hub of entertainment and shopping. You can spend a day at Tokyo Disneyland or shop till you drop in the fashion-forward district of Harajuku. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or modern attractions, Kanto has something to offer every traveler.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Kanto.

Purchase a JR Pass for unlimited train travel in the region. It will save you money and time.
Visit popular attractions early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
Try the local cuisine such as ramen, sushi, and tempura. Don't miss out on seasonal street food.
Consider staying in a ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn, for a unique cultural experience.
Always carry cash, as some smaller shops and eateries may not accept credit cards.

Top City Travel Guides in Kanto

The cities of Kanto, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Tokyo

Destinations in Kanto

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Mount Fuji

Nikko

Hakone

Yamanashi

Zao Onsen

Explore Kanto: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Kanto

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Ashikaga Flower Park

Explore the breathtaking Ashikaga Flower Park, a floral paradise filled with stunning seasonal blooms and serene pathways perfect for relaxation.

4.3

Kegon Waterfalls

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Kegon Waterfalls, a must-visit natural attraction in Nikko, Tochigi, showcasing stunning landscapes and seasonal charm.

4.4

Fukuroda Falls

Fukuroda Falls: Experience Japan's breathtaking natural beauty and tranquility at one of its most iconic waterfalls, perfect for all nature enthusiasts.

4.3

Old Karuizawa Ginza Street

Discover the enchanting Old Karuizawa Ginza Street, a blend of traditional charm and modern delights in the heart of Japan’s scenic countryside.

4.0

Best landmarks in Kanto

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

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Meiji Jingu

Discover the tranquility of Meiji Jingu, a stunning Shinto shrine in Tokyo, surrounded by lush forests and rich in cultural heritage.

4.6

Shibuya Scramble Crossing

Experience the iconic Shibuya Scramble Crossing, where the vibrant pulse of Tokyo comes alive amidst neon lights and bustling crowds.

4.5

Shibamata Taishakuten

Explore the tranquil beauty of Shibamata Taishakuten, a historic Buddhist temple in Tokyo offering cultural insights and serene gardens.

4.2

Kaichū Inari Shrine

Explore the serene beauty of Kaichū Inari Shrine in Shinjuku, Tokyo - a perfect blend of spirituality and cultural heritage.

4.2

Best restaurants in Kanto

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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Tokyo Solamachi

Explore the perfect blend of shopping and dining at Tokyo Solamachi near the iconic Skytree.

4.2

Taimeiken

Experience the unique fusion of Japanese and Western flavors at Taimeiken in Tokyo—home of the legendary omelette rice.

4.0

Sano bamboo handmade ramen Oshiyama

Discover Sano Bamboo Handmade Ramen Oshiyama: A haven for ramen lovers offering authentic handmade noodles and traditional Japanese flavors.

4.2

Hamada

Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Hamada in Nerima City – where delicious soba noodles meet crispy tempura in a cozy atmosphere.

3.5

Best bars in Kanto

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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Shinjuku Golden-Gai

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Shinjuku Golden-Gai, where unique bars and unforgettable experiences await in Tokyo's heart.

4.3

The SG Club

Experience the art of mixology at The SG Club, a top cocktail bar in Shibuya, Tokyo, offering innovative drinks in a chic setting.

4.5

Bar Benfiddich

Experience the artistry of cocktails at Bar Benfiddich, a premier bar in Tokyo's Nishishinjuku offering innovative drinks and a cozy atmosphere.

4.5

Bar TRENCH

Discover the exquisite flavors of expertly crafted cocktails at Bar TRENCH in Shibuya, Tokyo's premier cocktail bar.

4.7

Best nightclubs in Kanto

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

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All Nightclubs

Explore the electrifying nightlife of Tokyo at TK Nightclub, where great music and vibrant energy create unforgettable nights.

4.5

Kujira Entertainment

Explore the electrifying nightlife of Shinjuku at Kujira Entertainment, where exquisite cocktails and lively entertainment meet delicious dining.

4.8

V2 TOKYO

Discover the electrifying nightlife of Tokyo at V2 TOKYO, a premier night club in Roppongi offering top DJs and an unforgettable atmosphere.

4.0

Club Camelot Night Club

Immerse yourself in the electrifying nightlife of Tokyo at Club Camelot, a premier night club in Shibuya offering unforgettable music and cocktails.

3.8

Best shops in Kanto

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

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All Shops

GINZA SIX

Explore Ginza Six, Tokyo's premier shopping destination, blending luxury retail, art, and a rooftop garden for an unforgettable experience.

4.0

LaLaport TOKYO-BAY

Explore LaLaport TOKYO-BAY: A Shopping Wonderland in Funabashi with Unique Stores, Delicious Dining, and Exciting Entertainment!

4.1

Mitsui Outlet Park Kisarazu

Explore the ultimate shopping experience at Mitsui Outlet Park Kisarazu, a vibrant outlet mall in Chiba with unbeatable deals and diverse dining options.

4.0

Ikspiari

Explore Ikspiari: A shopping mall in Chiba offering diverse dining and entertainment options for an unforgettable experience.

4.2

Explore Kanto on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Kanto, mapped for you.

Kanto Essentials

Kanto is a region in Japan that includes Tokyo, Yokohama, Chiba, and other major cities. The main international gateway to Kanto is Narita International Airport (NRT), located about 60 kilometers east of Tokyo. Haneda Airport (HND) is another major airport closer to central Tokyo. Both airports are well-connected to the city via trains, buses, and taxis. From other parts of Japan, you can travel to Kanto via the extensive Shinkansen (bullet train) network.
Kanto boasts one of the world's most efficient public transportation systems. The JR East trains, including the famous Yamanote Line, connect major parts of Tokyo. The Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway lines cover most of the city, and you can use a Suica or Pasmo card for convenient travel across trains, buses, and even some taxis. For intercity travel, the Shinkansen offers fast and efficient connections. Taxis are available but can be expensive. Biking is also a popular mode of transport in some areas.
The official currency in Japan is the Japanese Yen (JPY). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in urban areas, but it is advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments, street vendors, and rural areas. ATMs that accept international cards can be found at convenience stores like 7-Eleven and FamilyMart. Mobile payment options like Suica, Pasmo, and various QR code-based systems are also gaining popularity.
Kanto, like most of Japan, is generally very safe for tourists. However, it's wise to stay vigilant in crowded places like Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Roppongi, where pickpocketing can occur. Avoid Kabukicho in Shinjuku late at night, as it is known for its nightlife and associated risks. Always keep an eye on your belongings and avoid poorly lit areas after dark.
In case of an emergency, dial 110 for police and 119 for fire or medical assistance. Most operators speak some English. Tokyo has several hospitals with English-speaking staff, such as St. Luke's International Hospital and Tokyo Medical University Hospital. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are plentiful and usually have staff who can help with basic medical needs.
Fashion: Do wear comfortable and respectful clothing. Avoid overly casual attire such as tank tops and flip-flops in formal settings. Religion: Do be respectful at religious sites; bow before entering a shrine and do not take photos where prohibited. Public Transport: Do keep quiet and avoid talking on your phone; give up your seat for the elderly and disabled. Greetings: Do bow slightly when greeting someone; avoid overly enthusiastic handshakes. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and respect dining etiquette; don't stick chopsticks upright in your rice, as it resembles a funeral rite.
To experience Kanto like a local, visit neighborhood izakayas (Japanese pubs) for an authentic dining experience. Exploring local parks such as Ueno Park or Shinjuku Gyoen can offer a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. Attend a seasonal festival (matsuri) to immerse yourself in local culture. Using a bicycle to explore quieter neighborhoods can provide a unique perspective of the area. Lastly, practicing basic Japanese phrases can go a long way in enhancing your experience.

When is the best time to visit Kanto?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Kanto

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Kanto. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- Helloこんにちは
  [Konnichiwa]
- Goodbyeさようなら
  [Sayōnara]
- Yesはい
  [Hai]
- Noいいえ
  [Iie]
- Please/You're welcomeどうぞ
  [Dōzo]
- Thank youありがとう
  [Arigatou]
- Excuse me/Sorryすみません
  [Sumimasen]
- How are you?お元気ですか？
  [Ogenki desu ka?]
- Fine. And you?元気です。あなたは？
  [Genki desu. Anata wa?]
- Do you speak English?英語を話せますか？
  [Eigo o hanasemasu ka?]
- I don't understandわかりません
  [Wakarimasen]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseメニューを見せてください
  [Menyū o misete kudasai]
- I don't eat meat肉は食べません
  [Niku wa tabemasen]
- Cheers!乾杯！
  [Kanpai!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseお会計をお願いします
  [Okaikei o onegaishimasu]
- Help!助けて！
  [Tasukete!]
- Go away!どこか行って！
  [Doko ka itte!]
- Call the Police!警察を呼んで！
  [Keisatsu o yonde!]
- Call a doctor!医者を呼んで！
  [Isha o yonde!]
- I'm lost道に迷いました
  [Michi ni mayoimashita]
- I'm ill具合が悪いです
  [Guai ga warui desu]
- I'd like to buy...これを買いたいです
  [Kore o kaitai desu]
- I'm just looking見ているだけです
  [Mite iru dake desu]
- How much is it?これはいくらですか？
  [Kore wa ikura desu ka?]
- That's too expensiveそれは高すぎます
  [Sore wa takasugimasu]
- Can you lower the price?値段を下げてもらえますか？
  [Nedan o sagete moraemasu ka?]
- What time is it?今何時ですか？
  [Ima nanji desu ka?]
- It's one o'clock1時です
  [Ichi-ji desu]
- Half past (10)10時半です
  [Jū-ji han desu]
- Morning朝
  [Asa]
- Afternoon午後
  [Gogo]
- Evening夕方
  [Yūgata]
- Yesterday昨日
  [Kinō]
- Today今日
  [Kyō]
- Tomorrow明日
  [Ashita]
- 11
  [Ichi]
- 22
  [Ni]
- 33
  [San]
- 44
  [Shi]
- 55
  [Go]
- 66
  [Roku]
- 77
  [Nana]
- 88
  [Hachi]
- 99
  [Kyū]
- 1010
  [Jū]
- Where's a/the...?どこに...がありますか？
  [Doko ni... ga arimasu ka?]
- What's the address?住所は何ですか？
  [Jūsho wa nan desu ka?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?地図で見せてもらえますか？
  [Chizu de misete moraemasu ka?]
- When's the next (bus)?次の（バス）はいつですか？
  [Tsugi no (basu) wa itsu desu ka?]
- A ticket (to ....)（...）までの切符
  [(...) made no kippu]

History of Kanto

The Kanto region, encompassing seven prefectures including Tokyo, Kanagawa, and Saitama, has been a significant political and cultural center in Japan for centuries. Its strategic location and fertile plains made it an ideal setting for the establishment of ancient settlements and later, powerful shogunates.
The Kamakura period marks the establishment of the first shogunate in Japanese history. Minamoto no Yoritomo chose Kamakura in Kanagawa Prefecture as the seat of his military government. This era saw the rise of the samurai class and significant developments in Japanese feudalism, culture, and Buddhism.
The Edo period was characterized by the rule of the Tokugawa shogunate, which established its capital in Edo, modern-day Tokyo. This era was marked by peace, economic growth, and isolationist policies. Edo became one of the largest cities in the world, fostering a unique urban culture with a thriving arts scene, including Kabuki theater and Ukiyo-e woodblock prints.
The Meiji Restoration brought an end to the feudal shogunate and restored imperial rule. Tokyo, formerly Edo, was established as the capital of Japan. The Kanto region became a hub of rapid industrialization and modernization, with infrastructure developments such as railways, telegraph lines, and Western-style buildings transforming the area.
On September 1, 1923, the Kanto region was devastated by a massive earthquake, measuring 7.9 on the Richter scale. The disaster caused widespread destruction in Tokyo and Yokohama, leading to over 140,000 deaths. The earthquake reshaped the region's infrastructure and prompted significant urban planning and disaster prevention measures.
During World War II, Tokyo and other parts of the Kanto region suffered extensive damage from Allied bombing raids, particularly the firebombing of Tokyo on March 9-10, 1945. The bombings resulted in immense loss of life and property, but also led to post-war reconstruction efforts that modernized the city's landscape.
The Kanto region, especially Tokyo, played a crucial role in Japan's post-war economic recovery and rapid growth. The area saw the development of major industries, technological advancements, and infrastructure projects, such as the Shinkansen bullet train. Tokyo emerged as a global financial center and a symbol of Japan's economic prowess.
The 1964 Summer Olympics held in Tokyo marked Japan's re-emergence on the world stage. The event showcased Japan's post-war recovery and technological advancements. The construction of new sports facilities, infrastructure improvements, and the introduction of the Shinkansen high-speed rail were significant milestones of this period.
Today, the Kanto region is a vibrant blend of tradition and modernity. Tokyo, as the capital city, is a global metropolis with a rich cultural scene, advanced technology, and a bustling economy. Historical sites like Kamakura and Nikko offer glimpses into Japan's past, while urban centers like Yokohama and Chiba provide contemporary attractions and amenities.