Kantō Region

The Kantō region of Japan is located on 本州 (honshū), the country’s largest island. It comprises of seven prefectures: Ibaraki Prefecture, Tochigi Prefecture, Gunma Prefecture, Saitama Prefecture, Chiba Prefecture, Kanagawa Prefecture, and Tokyo Metropolis. The area is known for a wide variety of Japanese foods and traditional crafts that originated here, as well as its famous 温泉 (onsen—natural hot or boiling water from beneath the earth used for bathing) or hot springs. Blending historical culture with modern popular culture, this region is an especially charming part of Japan. Many travelers choose to start their journey in this region. Here, one can get a glimpse into what sort of country Japan is.

It’s said that Japan’s origins are rooted in the Kansai region. However, the Kantō region also has a rich history with many historical buildings still standing. From 794 to 1869, Kyoto Prefecture served as the political center (the capital). Later, Tokugawa Ieyasu, one of the key figures who ended the Warring States period, moved political power to Edo (modern-day Tokyo). Seen as a great man with many distinguished achievements, Tokugawa Ieyasu is commemorated throughout Japan in Shintō shrines called 東照宮 (tōshōgū). While not certain, it’s believed that he may be buried at Nikko Tōshōgū Shrine in Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture. Those interested in Buddhist temples, Shintō shrines, and Japanese history will find the Kantō region fascinating and will likely want to visit again and again.

In this region, there’s a city that played an important role in Japanese history—Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture. During the Edo Period (1603–1868), Japan restricted entry to foreigners. After this restriction was lifted in the Meiji Period (1868–1912), many foreigners entered Japan through Yokohama’s port. This made the city a significant gateway to the country and gave it an atmosphere that feels distinctly international. Notable sites include the Red Brick Warehouse, aptly named for its brick construction, and numerous smaller homes built in Western styles. Depending on one's location in the city, one may feel as though they’re actually in the West. Yokohama is also home to Japan’s largest Chinatown, a great spot for authentic Chinese cuisine. Although this is a Japanese city, Yokohama features many foreign cultural influences, making its atmosphere truly unique.

In addition to towns with a Western atmosphere, there is also a town in the Kantō region where traditional Japanese houses line the streets: Kawagoe, Saitama Prefecture. This city features an area called 小江戸 (koedo), known for preserving the architecture and atmosphere of the Edo Period. Here, one will find houses from the Edo Period, Meiji Period, and Taishō Period (1912–1926). The town also has several traditional warehouses where soy sauce (a sauce made from soybeans used in Japanese cuisine) is produced, as well as the Time Bell Tower, historically used to tell time to the townspeople. In an era when traditional Japanese landscapes are vanishing, the city of Kawagoe provides an authentic sense of stepping back into the Edo Period. Many historical buildings have been renovated into gift shops and cafes, allowing visitors to experience their interiors. With such landscapes becoming rare across Japan, it's fair to say that Koedo in Kawagoe is quite a valuable area.

The Japanese food 寿司 (sushi—fish and shellfish on top of vinegared rice) has become extremely popular worldwide. Similarly, the noodle dish ラーメン (rāmen) has also gained popularity. Originally from China, rāmen consists of noodles, soup, and various toppings. In recent years, some types of rāmen are served without broth, while others include just soup and noodles. Rāmen was first served in Tokyo, from the end of the Meiji Era through the Taishō Period. The original version reportedly had a strong, unpleasant smell, which was masked by adding a large amount of soy sauce to the soup. This is considered the origin of the soy sauce-based rāmen for which Tokyo is now famous.

As mentioned above, the Kantō region is an area of Japan where traditional and modern elements come together. No matter what type of trip one is seeking or what one's interests are, everyone will have a great time here. With excellent public transportation, this area is ideal for sightseeing. There are many places worth visiting, fantastic food, and so much more—making it a region one will want to return to. When sightseeing in Japan, be sure to visit the Kantō region and discover what makes it special.