【Kanagawa Winter Tour】Top 10 Must-See Spots | Hakone Cable Car, Kamakura's Snow-Covered Great Buddha! Complete with Travel Tips
Asia•Japan
277
Published at 01/06/2025
Contents
Winter in Kanagawa is like stepping into a magical snowy paradise! We've handpicked the top 10 winter attractions in Kanagawa just for you. Picture yourself admiring the stunning views of Mount Fuji from Hakone or marveling at the snow-dusted Great Buddha in Kamakura. Plus, we've included all the transportation info you need to make your winter adventure a breeze.
Stay Connected in Japan with a 5G Unlimited Data SIM Card (Airport Pick Up Available)
price:Only HK$ 123
Explore Tokyo with a Sightseeing Pass
price:Only HK$ 327.0
【Kanagawa Winter Attractions】1. Hakone Aerial Cableway
If you're heading to Hakone this winter, the aerial cableway is a must-see! This popular attraction offers incredible views of the snow-covered Owakudani Valley. Plus, you can catch a glimpse of the majestic Mount Fuji, all dressed in white. The ride itself takes about 25 minutes, giving you plenty of time to soak in the scenery. For the best experience, try to go on a clear day. And don't worry about the cold – the cable cars are heated, so you can stay cozy while enjoying the stunning winter landscape.
How to Get There:
- Hop on the Odakyu Romancecar at Shinjuku Station and ride it to Hakone-Yumoto Station
- Switch to the Hakone Mountain Railway and head to Gora Station
- From there, it's a short stroll to the Gora Station of the Hakone Ropeway
Hours of Operation: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (weather permitting)
Ropeway Station Location: 1300 Gora, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa Prefecture
Discover Mount Fuji and Hakone: "Land, Water, and Air" Adventure (Featuring the Hakone Ropeway, Starting from Tokyo)
price:HK$ 433
[Kanagawa Winter Attractions] 2. Owakudani Valley
![[Kanagawa Winter Attractions] 2. Owakudani Valley](https://cdn.kinnso.ai/laravel/posts/202501006-kanagawa/content/1736245254_Screenshot_2025-01-07_at_6.20.19 PM.png)
Owakudani Valley in Hakone is a must-see in the winter. This famous volcanic area transforms into a magical wonderland when covered in snow. The striking contrast between the pristine white snow and the dark volcanic rocks, along with the billowing sulfur smoke, makes for an otherworldly experience. Don't miss out on trying the local specialty, black eggs. According to legend, eating one of these eggs can add seven years to your life. Enjoying a warm black egg on a chilly winter day is an experience you won't forget.
How to Get There:
- Hop on the Hakone Ropeway and ride it all the way to Owakudani Station
- Or catch the Hakone Tozan Bus from Hakone Yumoto
Visiting Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Location: 1251 Sengokuhara, Hakone Town, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa Prefecture
【Kanagawa Winter Attractions】3. Lake Ashi
Winter at Lake Ashi is truly enchanting, especially at dawn when a gentle mist dances over the water, creating a picturesque scene with Mount Fuji in the background. Hop on a pirate ship cruise to soak in the snowy shores and the mesmerizing reflection of Mount Fuji on the lake's surface. To fully immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Lake Ashi, it's best to dedicate an entire day to explore and enjoy the area.
How to Get There:
- Hop on the Hakone Tozan Bus from Hakone Yumoto Station to reach Motohakone Port
- Or take the scenic Hakone Tozan Railway straight to Hakone Town Port
Pirate Ship Schedule:
- Motohakone – Hakone Town – Lake Ashi: 9:30 AM - 4:00 PM
- Note: Timings can change due to weather
Address: Motohakone, Hakone Town, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa Prefecture
【Kanagawa Winter Attractions】4. The Majestic Great Buddha of Kamakura (Kōtoku-in)
Winter gives the historic bronze statue of the Great Buddha a special kind of magic. Covered in a blanket of white snow, it looks even more impressive, making it a dream destination for photography lovers. If you're fortunate, you might witness the enchanting sight of snowflakes gently landing on the Buddha's head. Don't miss the temple's plum garden either; it starts to bloom in late winter and early spring, offering a stunning contrast to the snowy scenery.
Getting There:
- Hop on the Enoden train at Kamakura Station and ride it to Hase Station
- Enjoy a short 7-minute stroll from the station
Visiting Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (December to February)
Location: 4-2-28 Hase, Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture
【Kanagawa Winter Attractions】5. Enoshima
Winter in Enoshima is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. With fewer tourists around, you can take your time exploring this quaint island. Head up to the Enoshima Observation Lighthouse for breathtaking winter vistas of Mount Fuji and Sagami Bay. If the weather's clear, you might even catch a glimpse of the snow-dusted Hakone Mountains in the distance. The island's shrines become especially serene during the winter months, offering a perfect setting for a peaceful walk and some quiet reflection.
Getting There:
- Hop on the Enoden train at Fujisawa Station and ride it to Enoshima Station
- From there, take a leisurely 20-minute stroll across the bridge to reach the island
Opening Times:
- Enoshima Observation Lighthouse: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- The shrine's hours change with the seasons
Address: 2-3-28 Enoshima, Fujisawa City, Kanagawa Prefecture
【Kanagawa Winter Attractions】6. Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse
Winter casts a magical spell over the Yokohama port area, making the Red Brick Warehouse look even more picturesque with a snowy backdrop. Every winter, the area comes alive with a mesmerizing light display, turning the port into a breathtaking wonderland. For the best experience, visit around dusk to catch the beautiful sunset and then stay to enjoy the enchanting glow of the nighttime lights.
Getting There:
- Hop on the city bus from Yokohama Station
- Or, take a ride on the Minato Mirai Line to Bashamichi Station and enjoy a short walk
Opening Hours:
- Shops: 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM
- Dining: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM (hours may vary by restaurant)
Address: 1-1 Shinko, Naka Ward, Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture
【Kanagawa Winter Attractions】7. Hakone Museum of Art
Visiting the Hakone Museum of Art in winter offers a double treat. Not only can you enjoy the fascinating art exhibitions, but the famous moss garden turns into a picturesque scene straight out of a natural ink painting when covered in snow. The crystal glass corridor inside the museum catches the winter sunlight, creating beautiful light and shadow effects. Plus, the indoor exhibition halls are heated, so you can appreciate the art in cozy comfort.
Getting There:
- Hop on the mountain bus from Gora Station
- Alternatively, you can catch a direct bus from Hakone Yumoto Station
Open Hours: 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM (Last entry at 4:00 PM)
Location: 1121 Kozukayama, Sengokuhara, Hakone Town, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa Prefecture
【Kanagawa Winter Attractions】8. Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
If you're visiting Kamakura in winter, Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine is an absolute must-see. This iconic shrine takes on a magical quality during the colder months. Imagine walking along the path lined with towering ginkgo trees, their branches stark against the winter sky. And if you're lucky enough to catch a snowfall, the shrine transforms into a picturesque scene straight out of a traditional ink wash painting. Plus, every January, you can join in on the lively New Year festival activities that bring even more charm to this serene spot.
How to Get There:
- It's just about a 10-minute stroll from Kamakura Station.
- Or, you can hop on the city bus and get off at Hachiman-gu Mae Station.
Hours of Operation: Open 24/7 (Office hours: 6:00 AM - 8:30 PM)
Address: 2-1-31 Yukinoshita, Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture
【Kanagawa Winter Attractions】9. Sankei-en
Set in the heart of Yokohama, Sankei-en is a Japanese garden that truly comes to life in the winter. The garden's historic buildings take on a magical quality when blanketed in snow, with the three-story pagoda and the Rinshunkaku Pavilion standing out as must-see sights. Visitors can also relax in the garden's tea house, savoring matcha while soaking in the serene, snowy landscape.
Getting There:
- Hop on a municipal bus from Yokohama Station
- Or catch a bus from Negishi Station, which takes around 10 minutes
Hours of Operation: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Last entry at 4:30 PM)
Address: 58-1 Honmoku Sannodani, Naka Ward, Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture
Winter Attractions in Kanagawa: 10. Oyama Afuri Shrine
Nestled high on Mount Oyama, Oyama Afuri Shrine transforms into a snowy wonderland during the winter. The sight of the shrine blanketed in snow is simply stunning. Hop on the cable car for a scenic ride up the mountain, where you'll be treated to sweeping views of Sagami Bay. Don't miss the famous "Oyama Mairi" pilgrimage route, which offers a unique and serene experience for visitors, especially in the winter months.
How to Get There:
- Hop on a bus from Isehara Station on the Odakyu Line to reach the Oyama Cable Car Station.
- Then, take the cable car up to your destination.
When to Visit:
- Cable Car: 9:00 AM - 4:45 PM (Winter Hours)
- The Shrine is open all day
Address: 501 Oyama, Isehara City, Kanagawa Prefecture
【Helpful Tips】
- If you're heading out in winter, make sure to bundle up and consider packing some non-slip shoes.
- Remember, attraction hours can change with the weather, so it's a good idea to check their official website before you go.
- Hakone is famous for its hot springs, so why not treat yourself to a 1-2 night stay to fully enjoy them?
- Keep an eye on the weather forecast and aim for sunny days for your adventures.
- Snowfall can cause some attractions to reroute or close temporarily, so stay informed with the latest updates.
Kanagawa's winter wonders are as diverse as they are delightful. Picture yourself exploring the snowy vistas of Hakone, wandering through the historic temples of Kamakura, soaking in the urban vibes of Yokohama, or basking in the natural splendor of Mount Oyama. To make the most of your winter adventure, Kinnso has handpicked 10 must-see spots that showcase the magic of Kanagawa in the colder months. For a seamless experience, consider planning your trip around transportation options. For example, a 2-3 day getaway in the Hakone area could be the perfect way to craft your own unforgettable winter memories.