KANTO

Kantō – The Beating Heart of Japan

Kantō is Japan’s economic, political, and cultural powerhouse, home to the sprawling metropolis of Tokyo as well as some of the country’s most significant historical and natural attractions. While Tokyo embodies cutting-edge technology and neon-lit excitement, the region also offers tranquil temples, charming coastal towns, and scenic mountain escapes.

• Tokyo: As Japan’s capital, Tokyo is a vibrant city where ancient shrines stand alongside futuristic skyscrapers. Whether exploring the historic Asakusa district or the fashion-forward streets of Harajuku, Tokyo’s diversity never fails to impress. The city is also home to the Imperial Palace, built on the former site of Edo Castle, and the Shibuya Crossing, the busiest pedestrian intersection in the world.

Interesting Facts About Kantō

• History: Kamakura, a former samurai capital, is home to the Great Buddha (Daibutsu), a 13-meter bronze statue that has stood for centuries. The city also has Tsurugaoka Hachimangū Shrine, a significant Shinto shrine associated with the samurai era.
• Temples & Shrines: The Sensō-ji Temple in Tokyo is one of Japan's oldest and most visited temples, with its striking red gates and bustling Nakamise shopping street. Nikkō Tōshō-gū Shrine, dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its elaborate carvings and vibrant colours.
• Nature: Nikkō National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring the lavish Tōshō-gū Shrine, waterfalls, and mountainous scenery that is stunning in autumn. Hakone, located near Mount Fuji, is famous for its scenic hot springs, views of the mountain, and volcanic Owakudani Valley.
• Food: Tokyo has the most Michelin-starred restaurants in the world, but it is also the birthplace of popular dishes like tempura, monjayaki, and Edo-style sushi. Yokohama is famous for its Chinese cuisine, while Chiba Prefecture produces some of Japan’s finest peanuts and seafood.
• Activities: Visitors can explore Akihabara, Tokyo’s mecca for anime, gaming, and electronics, or enjoy entertainment in Shinjuku and Shibuya’s vibrant nightlife districts. Yokohama, Japan’s second-largest city, boasts one of the country’s best Chinatown districts and the beautiful Minato Mirai waterfront area. If looking for theme parks, then you can visit Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea, two of the country’s most popular theme parks.

Kantō offers a dynamic mix of history, tradition, and cutting-edge modernity, making it one of the most exciting and diverse regions in Japan to explore.