About Kanto (関東)
Explore Kanto, the region that includes Tokyo and many of Japan’s most visited destinations.
Kanto is a region in eastern Japan consisting of seven prefectures. Home to Tokyo, the nation’s capital, the region combines modern cities, historic sites, coastal landscapes, and cultural attractions. Kanto serves as Japan’s political, economic, and transportation center while offering a wide range of travel experiences beyond its major urban areas.
Why Visit Kanto?
Kanto offers an introduction to many different sides of Japan. Historic temples, lively neighborhoods, scenic coastlines, mountain landscapes, and relaxing hot spring towns create remarkable variety within a single region.
Beyond its famous cities, Kanto rewards travelers with peaceful countryside, traditional towns, and seasonal landscapes. Excellent transportation also makes it easy to explore both vibrant urban centers and quiet rural destinations during the same trip.
Few regions offer such easy access to both modern city life and centuries of Japanese history within a single trip. Travelers can easily explore bustling city districts, historic temples, coastal landscapes, and traditional communities within a relatively compact region.
Featured Experiences
- Explore Tokyo‘s neighborhoods, museums, and cultural attractions
- Visit the historic temples and shrines of Nikko
- Discover Kamakura’s samurai history and the Great Buddha
- Enjoy coastal scenery in Kanagawa and Chiba
- Experience traditional hot spring destinations in Gunma
- Explore seasonal landscapes throughout the region
Prefectures
Kanto consists of seven prefectures, each offering its own blend of vibrant cities, historic landmarks, mountain scenery, coastal beauty, and unforgettable cultural experiences. Explore each destination below to discover what makes every prefecture unique.
Travel Highlights
Kanto is one of Japan’s most accessible regions, thanks to its extensive rail network, airports, and excellent transportation infrastructure. While many visitors focus on Tokyo, the surrounding prefectures offer historical landmarks, natural scenery, cultural experiences, and regional destinations that are easy to reach year-round.
From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the peaceful mountains of Gunma and Tochigi, Kanto offers remarkable diversity within a relatively compact region. Excellent transportation makes it easy to combine world-famous attractions with quiet countryside, coastal scenery, and traditional towns during the same journey.
Explore More Regions
Continue exploring Japan47 to discover all eight regions and 47 prefectures.