“Sightseeing taxis” are taxis driven by certified Kanagawa Sightseeing Taxi drivers who not only show passengers around but also provide explanations of the various famous sightseeing spots. Perfect for people who do not want to be bound by the time constraints imposed when using a regular tour bus and people who want to be able to leisurely go around at their own pace, sightseeing taxis are an enjoyable way to see the sights and hear about hidden places inaccessible by bus, unknown local stories that only local guides know, etc.
To meet the diverse needs of the people, the sightseeing route is decided upon discussion between the passenger and the taxi company of the certified river. So kindly get in touch with the respective taxi company for finalizing the sightseeing route.
A universal design taxi is a new type of taxi that is based on the concept of “anywhere, anyone, freely, and easy to use”. It is compatible not only for people who use wheelchairs, but also elderly who cannot walk well, pregnant women, people with strollers, and people with large pieces of luggage. A unique feature of universal design taxis is that people in wheelchairs do not need to get out of their wheelchair to use the taxi. Owing to this feature, it is highly appreciated by the users.
In addition to being comfortable and relaxing, these spacious taxis make it possible to carry not only items such as suitcases and golf bags but also strollers, without folding them.
Universal design Taxi sticker installed on vehicles certified by taxi
Taxi stand without level difference
Every year, the Kanagawa Taxi Association conducts the "Kanagawa Sightseeing Taxi Project", jointly with the students of the Yokohama Studies Seminar in Ferris University.
This is the 4th year the project has been conducted, and this year's topic is "inbound." The goal is to educate overseas tourists about Kanagawa Prefecture, a prefecture that all tourists can enjoy.
- From our perspective, we discussed several issues with international students,stuff like locations to take photos that will attract a lot of likes on Instagram and other SNSs. International students showed an interest in aspects that they cannot find in their home country, such as the seasons and food in Japan, which helped us realize the charm of Japan once again. We also considered cultural differences such as hot springs and ways to appreciate things. (M.T)
- It was a good place where we could actively exchange opinions and absorb various things. Mainly because of the difference in viewpoint of Japanese students and international students on their recommendation for sightseeing sites, it was important to know what exactly they are expecting. There is a wide range of candidate locations this time, so it would be nice if we can make more and more people enjoy the same. (M.S)
- Our group asked international students what sightseeing places in Japan they were glad to have visited. I thought that places such as Minato Mirai would be popular, but international students talked about how they want to go to sites that have a feel of Japanese tradition and culture, such as Sankei-en and Kamakura. These were extremely useful ideas! Speaking with international students was refreshing and enjoyable, and time just flew by. (H.S)
During the seminar, various types of sightseeing spots were discussed. These included popular spots that Ferris University students wanted to introduce to overseas tourists, hidden spots that only local residents know about, and spots that provide experiences only possible in Kanagawa Prefecture.
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About an hour and a half along a gently sloping path and passing through 3 tunnels, takes you to the Kurokura dam where you can see “Yushin blue” water. Even beginners can make it to the dam without any trouble. It is particularly beautiful in autumn season when the surrounding mountains are covered in yellow gold color. It takes, however, a bit of luck to see the Yushin blue water, because it depends on various factors such as the weather, amount of water behind the dam, etc. (M.S)
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In Japan, when people think of summer flowers, they think of sunflowers. With about 450,000 sunflowers spread on a wide plane, the Zama sunflower garden provides a feel of summer. In August, there is also a sunflower festival, where visitors can purchase special locally produced items. Why not try what it feels like to be surrounded by sunflowers. (K.H)
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The interior of the museum reproduces the feel of Showa retro style streets, and the museum is lined with numerous carefully selected ramen shops. If you visit the museum, you can enjoy not only ramen from the various regions of Japan, but also ramen from throughout the world including America and Germany. For people who want to try the various types of ramen, we recommend the mini-ramen! (M.F)
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The Kawasaki coast is known as the birthplace of factory nightscapes. There are many factories in the area, and at night, the lights are turned on for work in these factories. This popular view is famous as the “Kawasaki factory nightscape”! From the “Kawasaki Marien observation gallery”, it is possible not only to photograph the factories from inside but also to get a full view of the industrial area. Amazingly, there is no entrance fee! We recommend the nightscape from the Shuto Expressway. (M.K)
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On this quite lake surrounded by mountains, you can enjoy a cruise on a vessel shaped like a pirate boat. The massive Mount Fuji that towers right in front of your eyes is an impressive sight.After a pleasant cruise, you can drop by a hot spring or have an elegant lunch and tea time at a stylish restaurant while viewing the lake! (M.K)
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Odawara Castle has a long history. Thanks to repairs in 2016, the castle’s towers have been reborn in beautiful white. An ingenious exhibition in the castle provides an easy-to-understand explanation of the history and role of Odawara Castle. There are numerous stores that sell unique Odawara products from the area, which are perfect for souvenirs. (M.F)
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With a view of the ocean right in front of the railroad crossing, the location has been used for scenes in numerous dramas and animation! There are stylish café with a view of the ocean in the area too, but we recommend the various restaurants located in Komachi dori on the road back to Kamakura Station. These include ones that serve the famous whitebait rice bowl and the recently popular Green-tea Tiramisu! (Y.I)
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The Miura Peninsula is surrounded by the ocean. There are numerous sightseeing spots including the Miura coast, Jogasaki coast, and Soleil hill. After visiting those, you can enjoy a soak in a hot spring. If you are hungry, you can then have the always fresh Miura/Misaki tuna. Perfect for families, couples, and even individuals. Please do try the full course of nature, care, and food. (A.N.)
