top things to do in Kawasaki japan

Introduction : Top Things to Do in Kawasaki, Japan

Hey there, fellow Japan enthusiasts! Ever found yourself planning a trip to Tokyo and completely overlooking its neighbor Kawasaki? Trust me, I’ve been there. While Tokyo gets all the glory and Yokohama enjoys its fair share of the spotlight, Kawasaki sits quietly in between, packed with attractions that deserve way more attention than they get.

I first discovered Kawasaki almost by accident during my second trip to Japan, and honestly? It was like finding a hidden treasure chest. This industrial city might not scream “tourist destination” at first glance, but dig a little deeper and you’ll discover a fascinating mix of traditional culture, futuristic technology, and everything in between.

So grab your travel notebook and let’s dive into the best things to do in Kawasaki. Whether you’re a first-timer to Japan or a seasoned traveler looking to explore beyond the usual hotspots, I’ve got you covered!

1. Explore the Otherworldly Kawasaki Daishi Temple

Let’s kick things off with something truly special. Kawasaki Daishi (officially known as Heiken-ji Temple) isn’t just any temple – it’s one of the most important Buddhist temples in the Kanto region. Founded in 1128, this place is seriously old-school.

The moment you walk through the massive Niomon Gate, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into another world. The smell of incense fills the air, and the intricate architecture just begs to be photographed. Ever wondered what it feels like to be surrounded by centuries of spiritual history? This is your chance to find out.

What makes this temple particularly cool is its reputation for good luck and protection against evil. Many Japanese people visit at the beginning of each year for “Hatsumode” (first shrine visit). If you happen to be there during New Year’s, prepare for crowds – but also for an authentic cultural experience you won’t forget!

Don’t miss the five-story pagoda and the main hall with its impressive Buddhist statues. And FYI, the street leading to the temple is lined with traditional shops selling everything from good luck charms to senbei (rice crackers) – perfect for snacking while you explore!

2. Get Your Geek On at the Fujiko F. Fujio Museum

Calling all anime lovers! Did you know that Kawasaki houses the museum dedicated to the creators of Doraemon? Yep, that blue robotic cat that’s practically a national icon in Japan!

The Fujiko F. Fujio Museum (affectionately called the “Doraemon Museum” by fans) is a colorful celebration of the legendary manga artist and his creations. Walking through the exhibits feels like stepping into your childhood – assuming you grew up with Japanese animation, that is. If not, you’re in for a delightful introduction!

The museum is thoughtfully designed with interactive exhibits, original drawings, and even a rooftop garden with character statues. There’s something magical about seeing the original sketches of characters that have brought joy to millions of people.

One quick heads-up though: tickets can’t be purchased at the door. You’ll need to book in advance through a travel agency or your hotel concierge. Worth the extra effort? Absolutely! How often do you get to hang out with a time-traveling robotic cat from the 22nd century? 🙂

3. Witness the Spectacle of Kawasaki’s Halloween Parade

If you happen to be in Japan in late October, you’re in for a treat! Kawasaki hosts what’s arguably the wildest and most creative Halloween parade in all of Asia. This isn’t your typical neighborhood trick-or-treating – it’s an explosive celebration of costume artistry that draws thousands of participants and spectators.

What makes this parade special is the sheer dedication to costumes. We’re talking movie-quality makeup, elaborate props, and concepts that will blow your mind. The participants take this VERY seriously, with some working on their costumes for months in advance.

The parade has strict quality standards (yes, really – you need to apply to participate!), which means you’ll see some truly jaw-dropping creations. Think Hollywood special effects meets Japanese attention to detail. The result? Pure visual candy.

Even if you’re just watching, the energy is infectious. The streets fill with music, laughter, and camera flashes as people try to capture the incredible sights. Halloween in Kawasaki gives you a fascinating glimpse into how Japan adopts and transforms Western traditions into something uniquely their own.

4. Immerse Yourself in Kawasaki’s Festival Culture

Speaking of celebrations, Kawasaki knows how to throw a party! The city hosts several traditional matsuri (festivals) throughout the year that showcase Japanese culture at its most vibrant.

The most famous – and perhaps most eyebrow-raising – is the Kanamara Matsuri, colloquially known as the “Penis Festival.” Yes, you read that right. Held each spring at Kanayama Shrine, this unusual festival celebrates fertility and reproductive health. Giant phallus-shaped mikoshi (portable shrines) are carried through the streets, penis-shaped candies are sold, and the atmosphere is surprisingly family-friendly despite the theme. It’s definitely one of those “only in Japan” experiences that makes for great stories back home!

For something more conventional but equally impressive, check out the Kawasaki Citizen’s Festival in November. This massive event features parades, traditional performances, food stalls galore, and a fantastic fireworks display. The locals really come out in force for this one, giving you a perfect opportunity to experience authentic Japanese festival culture.

5. Shop Till You Drop at Lazona Kawasaki Plaza

Need a break from sightseeing? Lazona Kawasaki Plaza is calling your name! This massive shopping complex connected to Kawasaki Station is retail therapy at its finest. With over 300 shops and restaurants spread across several floors, you could easily spend a full day here and not see everything.

What I love about Lazona is how it perfectly balances Japanese and international brands. You’ll find familiar global chains alongside uniquely Japanese stores offering products you never knew you needed (but suddenly can’t live without). The food court deserves special mention – it’s a fantastic place to sample a variety of Japanese dishes without breaking the bank.

The open plaza at the center often hosts events, performances, and seasonal decorations. During my last visit in winter, they had an incredible illumination display that transformed the space into a twinkling wonderland. Talk about Instagram-worthy moments!

6. Get Scientific at the Toshiba Science Museum

Ever wondered how all those cool Japanese electronics come to life? The Toshiba Science Museum offers a fascinating peek into the world of technology and innovation. And the best part? It’s completely free!

The museum showcases Toshiba’s technological developments throughout history, from early electric appliances to cutting-edge AI and robotics. What makes this place special is how interactive it is – you don’t just look at exhibits, you play with them!

Try your hand at generating electricity, interact with robots, or explore the principles of superconductivity through hands-on displays. Even if you’re not particularly tech-savvy (raising my hand here), the exhibits are designed to be accessible and engaging for everyone.

The museum underwent a major renovation a few years back, so everything looks sleek and futuristic – exactly what you’d expect from a Japanese tech museum. It’s not huge, but it packs a lot of mind-blowing technology into a compact space.

7. Unwind at Yumemigasaki Animal Park

Need a break from urban exploration? Yumemigasaki Animal Park offers a charming respite from city life. This compact zoo might not compete with the massive wildlife parks you’re used to, but it has a certain intimate charm that makes it special.

The park is home to about 60 different species, including red pandas, monkeys, llamas, and various birds. What makes this place unique is how close you can get to some of the animals – there’s even a petting zoo section where kids (and, let’s be honest, adults too) can interact with goats, sheep, and guinea pigs.

The entrance fee is ridiculously affordable (we’re talking just a few hundred yen), making it a perfect budget-friendly activity. Bring a picnic lunch and make an afternoon of it – the grassy areas provide perfect spots to relax while enjoying views of the animals and the surrounding garden.

8. Experience Industrial Tourism at Kawasaki Factory Night Tours

Kawasaki’s industrial heritage isn’t just part of its history – it’s a living, breathing attraction in its own right. One of the most unique experiences the city offers is the factory night tours along the industrial waterfront.

These tours take you through the massive industrial zone that lines Tokyo Bay, showcasing huge factories, refineries, and processing plants all lit up against the night sky. It sounds weird, I know, but trust me on this one – there’s something hauntingly beautiful about these massive structures with their intricate networks of pipes, towers, and tanks illuminated against the darkness.

Tour boats cruise along the waterways between facilities, giving you perfect photo opportunities. Some tours even include dinner or drinks on board. The combination of industrial might and artistic lighting creates a cyberpunk aesthetic that’s straight out of a sci-fi film.

IMO, this is one of the most underrated attractions in the Kanto region. Where else can you find beauty in the industrial landscape while learning about Japan’s economic powerhouse firsthand?

9. Relax at Kawasaki Marien

After all that exploring, you deserve some relaxation time! Kawasaki Marien is a waterfront complex offering gorgeous views of Tokyo Bay and the surrounding industrial panorama (which, as we’ve established, is way cooler than it sounds).

The observation deck is the main attraction here, providing 360-degree views of the bay, the Kawasaki industrial zone, and on clear days, even Mount Fuji in the distance. It’s especially magical at sunset, when the sky turns orange and pink behind the silhouettes of cranes and factory towers.

The complex also houses restaurants, shops, and occasionally hosts markets and events. It’s a bit off the typical tourist path, which means you’ll often have the place relatively to yourself – a rare luxury in the densely populated Tokyo area!

10. Taste Local Flavors at Kawasaki’s Food Scenes

No travel guide would be complete without talking about food, right? While Kawasaki might not be as famous for cuisine as other Japanese cities, it offers authentic eating experiences without the tourist markups you’ll find in Tokyo.

For the ultimate local experience, head to the shopping streets near Kawasaki Station. These narrow alleys are lined with small restaurants and izakayas (Japanese pubs) serving everything from ramen and takoyaki to more obscure regional specialties. The lack of English menus might be intimidating, but a smile and some pointing will get you far – and the resulting food adventure is worth it!

Don’t miss trying monja-yaki, a pan-fried batter dish similar to okonomiyaki but more liquid in consistency. While it’s more associated with Tokyo, the Kawasaki versions are equally delicious and typically less expensive.

For dessert lovers, keep an eye out for taiyaki – fish-shaped cakes filled with sweet red bean paste or custard. There’s a small shop near Kawasaki Daishi that’s been making these treats the traditional way for generations.

So there you have it – my top picks for experiencing the best of Kawasaki! This often-overlooked city between Tokyo and Yokohama offers a fascinating mix of traditional culture, futuristic technology, and authentic Japanese experiences without the overwhelming tourist crowds.

Whether you’re making it a day trip from Tokyo or using it as a base for exploring the wider Kanto region, Kawasaki rewards those willing to step slightly off the beaten path. Next time you’re planning a Japan itinerary, give this industrial gem the attention it deserves!

Have you been to Kawasaki before? What were your favorite spots? Or if you’re planning a trip, which of these attractions sounds most interesting to you? Either way, happy travels! :/