17 Popular Date Spots in Kanagawa: A Special Day Together, from Port City Night Views to Hakone Hot Springs

17 Popular Date Spots in Kanagawa: A Special Day Together, from Port City Night Views to Hakone Hot Springs

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Written by :  GOOD LUCK TRIP

Kanagawa Prefecture offers a wide variety of date spots, including Yokohama with the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse and Yamashita Park, Shonan and Enoshima where the Enoshima Sea Candle and Enoshima Aquarium draw visitors, Kamakura where you can enjoy a quiet moment at Hokokuji Temple, and Hakone with Hakone Shrine, Lake Ashi, and The Hakone Open-Air Museum.
Another appeal is that each area offers a different way to spend your time, from shopping and strolling through town to seaside walks, night views, art appreciation, and hot spring trips. Here are some of Kanagawa’s popular date spots, perfect not only for anniversary trips but also for weekend outings.

17 Popular Date Spots for Experiences Unique to Kanagawa

Kanagawa has plenty of places to choose from depending on how you want to spend time together, from dates strolling through the port city of Yokohama to seaside walks in Shonan, moments spent enjoying history and nature in Kamakura, and hot spring trips in Hakone.
Enjoy a memorable date in areas that each have their own distinct appeal.

1. Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse (Naka Ward, Yokohama)

A landmark of Yokohama’s signature bay area. This culture and shopping spot features shops, restaurants, multipurpose halls, and more inside two warehouse buildings that preserve the atmosphere of the past.
Warehouse No. 1 is home to cultural facilities and shops selling Yokohama souvenirs, while Warehouse No. 2 brings together restaurants and cafés with different themes, making it a place to enjoy throughout the day. Seasonal events are also held in the event plaza, so each visit offers a different side of Yokohama.

Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse and the event plaza
©YOKOHAMA RED BRICK WAREHOUSE Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse and the event plaza

2. Yamashita Park (Naka Ward, Yokohama)

An open and spacious park stretching along Yokohama Port. The beautiful views of Yokohama’s representative scenery, including Yokohama Port and the skyline around Yokohama Landmark Tower, are wonderful by day and especially popular at night.
Flower beds, fountains, and numerous monuments are scattered throughout the park, and even a leisurely seaside walk lets you fully enjoy a Yokohama-style moment. It is also perfect for a relaxed date spent sitting on a bench, looking out over the harbor, and chatting.

The exotic-looking Indian Water Tower is also a popular photo spot
The exotic-looking Indian Water Tower is also a popular photo spot

3. Yokohama Landmark Tower (Nishi Ward, Yokohama)

A high-rise complex loved as a symbol of Minato Mirai. From the Sky Garden observation floor on the 69th floor, you can take in sweeping views of Yokohama and enjoy the scenery at any time of day, from daytime to sunset and night.
Inside the building are a shopping mall with about 160 stores and a wide range of restaurants, making it appealing for enjoying both views and dining in one visit. After taking in the view, you can continue on to shopping or a meal right away.

A landmark standing 273 meters above ground and overlooking the cityscape of Yokohama
A landmark standing 273 meters above ground and overlooking the cityscape of Yokohama

4. Osanbashi Yokohama International Passenger Terminal (Naka Ward, Yokohama)

The gateway to Yokohama Port, where cruise ships from around the world call. The 1st floor is a parking area, the 2nd floor has the immigration lobby and halls, and the rooftop features a plaza and send-off deck.
From the wave-inspired rooftop deck, you can overlook the harbor and Minato Mirai, fully enjoying views that feel distinctly Yokohama. With cafés and restaurants on-site, it is also recommended for a relaxed date spent taking in the scenery.

Osanbashi, designed by overseas contemporary architectsOsanbashi Yokohama International Passenger Terminal / Kanagawa Shimbun
Osanbashi, designed by overseas contemporary architectsOsanbashi Yokohama International Passenger Terminal / Kanagawa Shimbun

5. Yokohama Chinatown (Naka Ward, Yokohama)

One of Japan’s largest Chinatowns, with streets full of an exotic atmosphere. There are also plenty of souvenir shops where you can buy delicious Chinese ingredients, goods, and more.
Its appeal lies in the freedom to enjoy it however you feel that day, whether by sampling famous street foods or sitting down for authentic Chinese cuisine. As you walk through the streets while admiring the colorful paifang gates, you can feel Yokohama’s distinctive international atmosphere.

A streetscape full of international flair, lined with 10 colorful paifang gates
A streetscape full of international flair, lined with 10 colorful paifang gates

6. Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise (Kanazawa Ward, Yokohama)

This seaside leisure complex brings together aquariums and attractions. It also has a variety of facilities, including restaurants, barbecue areas, and shopping stores, making it perfect for a stroll while looking out at the sea.
With four themed aquariums and ocean-inspired attractions, there is so much to see that one day may not be enough. From morning to night, you can enjoy a date that will stay in your memory.

The four themed aquariums display about 120,000 creatures from around 700 species
The four themed aquariums display about 120,000 creatures from around 700 species

7. Sankeien Garden (Naka Ward, Yokohama)

A Japanese garden where historic architecture and seasonal nature come together in harmony. Various flowers bloom in the garden throughout the year, and events are held to enjoy them.
Historic buildings relocated from Kyoto, Kamakura, and other places are dotted throughout the grounds, offering scenery with a different atmosphere as you walk. Leave the bustle of the city behind and take a slow stroll through the garden while admiring the seasonal landscapes.

The beautiful scenery, where historic buildings and seasonal flowers blend together, is also part of the appeal
The beautiful scenery, where historic buildings and seasonal flowers blend together, is also part of the appeal

8. Enoshima Aquarium (Fujisawa City)

A popular aquarium where you can feel close to the sea of Shonan. Its exhibits and shows are based on the themes of Sagami Bay, the Pacific Ocean, and the creatures that live there.
One highlight is the dolphin show that makes use of its location overlooking Enoshima and Mt. Fuji. You can encounter a variety of marine life, from fish swimming in the large tank to sea turtles and penguins, and fully experience the appeal of the Shonan sea.

Powerful performances by divers and marine animals are also a highlight
Powerful performances by divers and marine animals are also a highlight

9. Enoshima Sea Candle (Enoshima Lighthouse Observation Tower) (Fujisawa City)

An observation lighthouse loved as a symbol of Enoshima. From the glass-enclosed observation floor, 101.56 meters above sea level, you can enjoy wide-ranging views of Sagami Bay, Mt. Fuji, and more.
The outdoor observation area offers an even more open view, and on clear days the sunset scenery is especially impressive. Spend a relaxed Shonan-style moment on the observation deck or terrace.

At the foot of the observation tower, wood-deck terrace seating is available for enjoying meals
At the foot of the observation tower, wood-deck terrace seating is available for enjoying meals

10. Enoshima Shrine (Fujisawa City)

A historic shrine that regards all of Enoshima as sacred grounds. It consists of three shrines, Hetsumiya, Nakatsumiya, and Okutsumiya, and is said to offer blessings for matchmaking, financial fortune, improvement in the performing arts, and more.
If you visit the three shrines while exploring the island, you can enjoy both nature-rich scenery and historic architecture. This popular spot is worth visiting together with a stroll around Shonan.

Zuishinmon Gate, modeled after the Dragon Palace, is also notable for paintings such as peonies decorating its walls and ceiling
Zuishinmon Gate, modeled after the Dragon Palace, is also notable for paintings such as peonies decorating its walls and ceiling

11. Hokokuji Temple (Kamakura City)

One of Kamakura’s renowned temples, known as the “Bamboo Temple.” Its scenery includes a bamboo grove of about 2,000 stalks and a beautifully maintained Japanese garden, creating a dreamlike and picturesque setting.
At Kyukoan, located beyond the bamboo grove, you can enjoy matcha while looking out at the quiet scenery. The garden, which changes its appearance with each season, is also beautiful, making it perfect for a mature date where the two of you can talk at leisure in a calm atmosphere.

In addition to the bamboo grove, the Japanese garden that changes with the seasons is also a highlight
In addition to the bamboo grove, the Japanese garden that changes with the seasons is also a highlight

12. Nagai Uminote Park Soleil Hill (Yokosuka City)

An experience-based park where you can fully enjoy the nature of the Miura Peninsula. Across its spacious grounds, you can take in the peninsula’s rich natural surroundings and enjoy a variety of hands-on activities.
In addition to seasonal flower fields and scenic viewpoints, the park offers facilities such as a zip line, hands-on workshops, and dining options. Since camping and glamping are also available, it is recommended for couples who want to spend a relaxing full day being active in nature.

The rooftop of the large athletic facility can also be used as an observation deck
The rooftop of the large athletic facility can also be used as an observation deck

13. Odawara Castle (Odawara City)

A historic castle site loved as a symbol of Odawara. The current castle tower is a reconstructed keep rebuilt in 1960 and given seismic reinforcement and restoration work in 2016.
Inside the castle tower, you can see exhibits on the history of Odawara Castle, and from the top-floor observation deck, you can look out over Odawara’s city area and Sagami Bay. The park also has the Tokiwagi Gate SAMURAI Museum and the NINJA Museum, and taking commemorative photos with the castle in the background will likely become a memorable part of the trip.

On the top floor, the space where the statue of Marishiten was enshrined has been recreated
On the top floor, the space where the statue of Marishiten was enshrined has been recreated

14. Lake Ashi (Hakone Town)

A lake known as one of Hakone’s representative scenic spots. Along the lakeshore are many leisure facilities and souvenir shops, and sightseeing cruises around the lake are also very popular.
Its appeal lies in the relaxed time you can spend here, whether admiring Hakone’s mountains from the water or walking along the lakeside and stopping by souvenir shops. From the southern shore, you may even see the “upside-down Mt. Fuji” reflected on the lake’s surface, offering a distinctly Hakone view you will want to share together.

The red torii gate of Hakone Shrine standing in Lake Ashi, with Mt. Fuji in the distance
The red torii gate of Hakone Shrine standing in Lake Ashi, with Mt. Fuji in the distance

15. Hakone Shrine (Hakone Town)

One of the Kanto region’s leading shrines, standing close to Lake Ashi and surrounded by Hakone’s nature. Today, it is worshipped as a deity that opens the way to good fortune, offering blessings such as protection from misfortune, fulfillment of wishes, success in competition, traffic and travel safety, and matchmaking.
As you walk the approach from the shore of Lake Ashi, a vermilion shrine building appears with the mountains of Hakone behind it. There is much to see, including the Torii Gate of Peace standing in the lake and the Ryujin Suisha, where visitors can take home sacred water that springs from within the shrine grounds.

One of the Kanto region’s leading shrines, with a history of more than 1,260 years
One of the Kanto region’s leading shrines, with a history of more than 1,260 years

16. The Hakone Open-Air Museum (Hakone Town)

Japan’s first open-air museum, where you can enjoy art amid Hakone’s natural surroundings. It displays masterpieces by world-renowned masters representing modern and contemporary art, including Rodin, Moore, and Miró.
Across the vast 70,000-square-meter grounds, about 120 sculptures are scattered throughout, letting you encounter artworks as you walk through the museum. You can take photos with the pieces or soak in the hot spring footbath along the way, feeling close to art while strolling through nature.

The Picasso Pavilion houses one of the world’s leading collections of works by Pablo Picasso
The Picasso Pavilion houses one of the world’s leading collections of works by Pablo Picasso

17. Hakone Venetian Glass Museum (Hakone Town)

A museum specializing in Venetian glass, located in the lush Sengokuhara area of Hakone. Inside, you can view a wide range of works, from Venetian glass made in the 16th and 17th centuries to contemporary glass art.
With a garden overlooking Owakudani as well as a café and restaurant, you can spend time away from the ordinary while surrounded by sparkling glass works and Hakone’s nature. If your creativity is sparked, try making your own handmade piece at the glass workshop.

A beautiful garden spreads out with views of Owakudani
A beautiful garden spreads out with views of Owakudani

Perfect for Ending a Date: 3 Night View Spots in Kanagawa

At the end of the day, you will want to spend a relaxing moment looking out at beautifully lit streetscapes and seaside night views. Kanagawa is dotted with many night view spots wrapped in a romantic atmosphere.

1. Giant Ferris Wheel “Cosmo Clock 21” (Naka Ward, Yokohama)

A giant Ferris wheel that symbolizes the night view of Minato Mirai. During the roughly 15-minute ride, you can overlook the glittering bay area and Yokohama Port, with a dreamlike view that differs from the daytime scene.
After sunset, the illumination show “Giant Ferris Wheel Light Art” colors the city, creating a romantic moment suitable for the end of the day. Inside the park, food and drinks for walking around, Yokohama souvenirs, and more are also sold.

Enjoy a sweeping view of the bay area’s nightscape during a roughly 15-minute ride through the sky
Enjoy a sweeping view of the bay area’s nightscape during a roughly 15-minute ride through the sky

2. Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse (Naka Ward, Yokohama)

A historic building loved as one of Yokohama’s representative sightseeing spots. At night, the buildings are lit up in orange, creating a dreamlike atmosphere different from the daytime.
Strolling around the area while looking at the illuminated red brick warehouses lets you enjoy a calmer side of Yokohama that differs from the daytime scene. It is also recommended to stop by after enjoying a meal at the shops or restaurants.

A culture and shopping spot that makes use of two historic warehouse buildings
A culture and shopping spot that makes use of two historic warehouse buildings

3. Komayama Park (Hiratsuka City)

A nature-rich park developed on a hill overlooking the Shonan area. From the two observation decks in the park, you can enjoy 360-degree panoramic views.
By day, sweeping scenery of Mt. Fuji and Sagami Bay spreads out before you, while at night it becomes a popular night view spot where the city lights sparkle. Also known as the birthplace of the “love padlocks,” it offers a memorable night-view date.

An open observation spot with a sweeping view of the Shonan cityscape
An open observation spot with a sweeping view of the Shonan cityscape

Great Places for a Couples’ Dinner: 3 Recommended Restaurants in Kanagawa

Yokohama has many renowned restaurants you will want to use for special occasions such as anniversaries and birthdays. Enjoy a special dinner for two with authentic cuisine in a calm setting.

1. CAMBUSA (Kanagawa Ward, Yokohama)

A popular Italian restaurant located near Yokohama Station. In an elegant space known for its red-brick exterior and refined, calm interior, you can savor pizza and Italian cuisine.
Dishes made with carefully selected ingredients and house-made cheese bring out the full appeal of the ingredients. It is a fitting choice for special dinners such as anniversaries and birthdays.

You can also enjoy Sicilian cuisine rich in regional character
You can also enjoy Sicilian cuisine rich in regional character

2. RISTORANTE REGA (Naka Ward, Yokohama)

A hideaway-style ristorante run by a chef who honed his skills in Italy. In a restaurant with an exterior reminiscent of a street corner in Italy and an interior with a classical atmosphere, you can leisurely enjoy authentic Italian cuisine.
Its appeal also includes dishes that make use of carefully selected ingredients, including vegetables from contracted farmers, and pairings with a wide selection of wines. Take your time enjoying a meal with someone special in a calm space.

Authentic Italian cuisine that brings out the natural flavors of the ingredients
Authentic Italian cuisine that brings out the natural flavors of the ingredients

3. Yokohama Serina Steak Dome (Naka Ward, Yokohama)

A teppanyaki restaurant located on the top floor of a historic building in Bashamichi. It is located on the top floor of the Sompo Japan Yokohama Bashamichi Building, which was also selected as the first historic building certified by the City of Yokohama.
Courses featuring Japanese Black beef, Matsusaka beef, and seasonal seafood grilled right in front of you are perfect for anniversaries. Together with the Minato Mirai night view spreading beyond the windows, you can spend a refined dinner time.

From the counter seats, you can take in a sweeping view of Minato Mirai at night
From the counter seats, you can take in a sweeping view of Minato Mirai at night

3 Places to Stay in Kanagawa for Anniversaries and Special Occasions

End your date by relaxing at an accommodation where you can enjoy night views or hot springs. From classic hotels that feel distinctly Yokohama to hot spring ryokan in Hakone, here are places to stay that will make a special day even more memorable.

1. Hotel New Grand (Naka Ward, Yokohama)

A classic hotel representing the port city of Yokohama. One of Japan’s leading classic hotels, it stands directly across from the famous Yamashita Park overlooking the sea and serves as a landmark of Yokohama.
With a historic main building and a tower building offering fine views, it has long been loved by many notable figures. In its dignified interiors, you can enjoy a hotel stay that lets you feel the history and traditions of the port city of Yokohama.

Photo courtesy of Hotel New Grand

The main building, opened in 1927, is a symbol of recovery from the Great Kanto Earthquake
The main building, opened in 1927, is a symbol of recovery from the Great Kanto Earthquake

2. The Yokohama Bay Hotel Tokyu (Nishi Ward, Yokohama)

A luxury hotel directly connected to Minato Mirai Station. It enjoys a prime waterfront location facing Cosmo Clock 21, the bright giant Ferris wheel that is also a symbol of the Minato Mirai area.
From guest rooms with balconies, you can leisurely gaze out at Yokohama Port and the night view, and the hotel also has a full range of restaurants and bars. It is also recommended for a hotel stay that adds color to an anniversary.

From the guest rooms, you can see the giant Ferris wheel, a symbol of Minato Mirai, up close
From the guest rooms, you can see the giant Ferris wheel, a symbol of Minato Mirai, up close

3. Tenseien (Hakone Town)

A hot spring ryokan in a convenient location within walking distance of Hakone-Yumoto Station. The property has four of its own hot spring sources, and its abundant natural hot spring water can be enjoyed in open-air baths, indoor baths, guest room open-air baths, and family baths.
After relaxing in the spacious open-air sky bath while gazing at the mountains of Hakone, enjoy a buffet featuring seasonal flavors. This inn lets the two of you spend a leisurely time while lingering in the afterglow of sightseeing.

With 198 guest rooms, you can choose from a variety of room types
With 198 guest rooms, you can choose from a variety of room types

Frequently Asked Questions About Date Spots in Kanagawa

Q

Which areas are recommended for a date in Kanagawa?

A

Yokohama is recommended if you want to enjoy seaside views and shopping; Enoshima and Shonan if you want to relax while looking at the sea; Kamakura if you want to enjoy historic temples, shrines, and town walks; and Hakone if you want to experience something out of the ordinary with hot springs and museums. One of Kanagawa’s appeals is that you can choose an area based on the purpose of your trip and the atmosphere you want.

Q

Which areas are recommended for a day-trip date in Kanagawa?

A

Yokohama, Enoshima and Shonan, and Kamakura are popular for day-trip dates because it is easy to visit multiple spots by public transportation. Hakone, on the other hand, is recommended for couples who want to take their time enjoying hot springs and museums. If you choose an area based on how you want to spend your time and your travel style, you can fully enjoy the many kinds of dates Kanagawa has to offer.

Q

What spots are recommended for an anniversary date?

A

Yokohama Landmark Tower, the giant Ferris wheel “Cosmo Clock 21,” and Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse are popular spots where you can enjoy night views that feel distinctly Yokohama. Combine them with dinner or a hotel stay to create a special day.

Q

Can you enjoy a date in Kanagawa without a car?

A

Yokohama, Kamakura, and Enoshima are easy to access by train and have many spots you can explore on foot. In Hakone and the Miura Peninsula, however, having a car expands your range of movement and lets you sightsee more freely. It is recommended to choose your transportation based on your travel plan.

Summary

Yokohama offers romantic scenery unique to a port city, Shonan and Enoshima have a pleasant sea breeze, Kamakura’s historic temples, shrines, and bamboo groves create quiet moments, and Hakone lets you experience something out of the ordinary through hot springs and museums.
Kanagawa is full of diverse date spots that make time spent together feel more special.
There are many ways to enjoy it, from talking while looking at the scenery to enjoying delicious meals or experiencing history and nature. Visit a place that suits your mood as a couple and enjoy a memorable date that is distinctly Kanagawa.