10 Recommended Tourist Spots in Kawasaki City! Make your weekend plans here!

Kawasaki City in Kanagawa Prefecture is easily accessible from Tokyo and Yokohama. It’s the perfect area for a casual weekend trip! When people think of Kawasaki City, many might picture shopping districts or industrial zones. However, there are actually plenty of tourist spots where you can enjoy art and nature. From museums that families can enjoy together to famous spots for viewing factory nightscapes! Here are 10 recommended sightseeing spots in Kawasaki City.

1. Lazona Kawasaki Plaza

When it comes to large shopping malls in Kawasaki City, Lazona Kawasaki Plaza is a top choice! It’s directly connected to JR Kawasaki Station, making it an easily accessible sightseeing spot.
Inside the five-story shopping mall, you’ll find around 300 shops! Not only are there plenty of fashion and lifestyle stores, but the variety of cafes and restaurants is also impressive. Limited-time pop-up shops frequently open here as well, so there’s always something new to check out.
Additionally, at the "Rufa Plaza" on the second floor, there’s a stage where events are often held on weekends, including CD release events for various artists.
Whether you visit with family or friends, you’re sure to have a great time at Lazona Kawasaki Plaza. It’s a must-visit spot when sightseeing in Kawasaki!

2. Kawasaki Daishi Heikenji Temple

Kawasaki Daishi Heikenji Temple was founded in 1128. Later, when Tokugawa Ienari, the 11th shogun of the Tokugawa shogunate, visited for protection from misfortune, it became known as the "Great Temple for Warding Off Evil."
Within the spacious temple grounds, there’s plenty to see, including the main hall and several other buildings.
In addition to New Year's visits, one of the biggest events attracting tourists is the Kawasaki Daishi Wind Chime Market, held every July. As a signature summer event of Kawasaki Daishi, around 30,000 wind chimes from all over Japan are displayed, creating a refreshing atmosphere that makes you forget the heat.
The temple’s original "Evil-Warding Daruma Wind Chimes" are especially cute and very popular every year! Be sure to check them out when you visit.

3. Fujiko F Fujio Museum (Kawasaki City)

Fujiko F Fujio, the beloved manga artist who lived in Kawasaki City, has his works celebrated at the Fujiko F Fujio Museum. The museum features many valuable original drawings and exhibits that can’t be seen anywhere else.
In addition to permanent exhibits, there are special limited-time exhibitions, offering visitors a new experience every time they visit. Kids and adults alike will be completely immersed in the world of Fujiko F Fujio!
Aside from the exhibits, the museum’s café and shop are also highlights. The café serves adorable latte art featuring popular characters, and the museum shop offers exclusive merchandise perfect as souvenirs from your Kawasaki trip.
Please note there is no parking lot, so it’s recommended to use public transportation when visiting.

4. Toshiba Science Museum

The Toshiba Science Museum reopened in 2014 after renovations. Here, you can learn about the history of Toshiba, a company that has supported Japan’s industries, and enjoy hands-on experiences with advanced technology.
The "Nano Rider" attraction is especially popular with kids. You can hop on a machine, control the steering, and experience the microscopic "nano" world—one-millionth of a meter!
There’s also the "Science Show," where visitors can learn about everyday science, such as static electricity and light, in a fun and engaging way.
Located just a one-minute walk from JR Kawasaki Station’s west exit and directly connected to Lazona Kawasaki Plaza, it’s super convenient! Admission is free, so feel free to stop by during your Kawasaki sightseeing.

5. Kawasaki Marien

Kawasaki Marien gets its name from a blend of "Marine" and "Entrance." Its official name is the "Kawasaki City Port Promotion Hall," and it was built to promote interaction between Kawasaki citizens and the Kawasaki Port.
Outside, you'll find tennis courts, a beach volleyball area, and BBQ facilities, making it a fun sightseeing spot perfect for groups!
But the highlight of Kawasaki Marien is the observation deck on the 10th floor of the tower building. From here, you can enjoy a stunning 360-degree panoramic view of Kawasaki Port. You can even spot Haneda Airport and the Aqua Line from this vantage point.
It’s been designated as a “Japan Night View Heritage” spot, and at night, the scenery becomes even more magical—especially for fans of factory nightscapes. There’s also a Sky Restaurant on the 9th floor of the tower building where you can enjoy a slightly luxurious dinner while taking in the Kawasaki night view.

6. Ikuta Ryokuchi Rose Garden

The Ikuta Ryokuchi Rose Garden is a seasonal tourist spot in Kawasaki City that’s only open during specific periods in spring and autumn.
Located in the Tama Hills area, this rose garden features about 530 varieties and 4,700 rose bushes.
Originally opened as part of the 30th-anniversary celebration of Mukogaoka Yuen amusement park, it was later handed over to Kawasaki City after the park’s closure. Now, the garden is maintained with the help of volunteers.
As you stroll through the garden, you’ll be surrounded by the sweet scent and beautiful colors of roses from all over the world. This secret garden only appears in spring and autumn—why not step inside and experience it for yourself?

7. Taro Okamoto Museum of Art (Kawasaki City)

Located within Ikuta Ryokuchi Park, the Taro Okamoto Museum of Art in Kawasaki City features a striking symbol even before you enter: the 30-meter-tall "Tower of Mother." It’s sure to spark excitement among visitors.
Inside the museum, you’ll find many dynamic works filled with Taro Okamoto’s unique artistic energy. With its concept of an "interactive exhibition space," the museum is designed to help you better feel and understand the artist’s thoughts and emotions behind his works.
The museum shop sells a variety of items, such as T-shirts, keychains, and figurines. Each one is creative and highly sought after by fans.
Immerse yourself in this distinctive world and enjoy an unforgettable time sightseeing in Kawasaki.

8. La Cittadella

La Cittadella is a multi-purpose commercial complex in Kawasaki City designed to resemble an Italian hill town. The atmosphere makes you feel as if you’ve left Japan and traveled abroad!
In addition to shops and restaurants, La Cittadella also features a movie theater, futsal court, and even a chapel.
Along Club Citta Street, you’ll find bars and restaurants open late into the night, making it a great place to spend an entire day. Another plus is the multi-story parking lot that can accommodate over 300 vehicles.
Enjoy an exotic atmosphere and make the most of your sightseeing at La Cittadella!

9. Yumemigasaki Zoo

Located on a small hill, Yumemigasaki Zoo is home to about 50 species of adorable animals waiting to greet visitors. One of the best things about this zoo is that admission is completely free!
Here, you can see animals that you don’t usually encounter up close, such as red pandas, penguins, and meerkats. Yumemigasaki Zoo offers a surprisingly rich experience despite being free of charge. It’s definitely worth a visit when sightseeing in Kawasaki.

10. Train and Bus Museum

The Train and Bus Museum is operated by Tokyu Corporation. It’s an exciting sightseeing spot for transportation enthusiasts, where you can learn about the history of trains and buses while having fun.
One of the most popular attractions is the train simulator game, where you can experience what it feels like to be a train conductor. With realistic video footage and sounds, adults may find themselves more hooked than the kids!
There’s also a section that recreates a Showa-era train station, making it a fun and nostalgic place to visit with the whole family.
The Train and Bus Museum offers unique experiences you won’t find anywhere else. Enjoy it to your heart’s content!

◎ Summary

What did you think of our list of 10 recommended sightseeing spots in Kawasaki City? Kawasaki is filled with charming places that rival Tokyo and Yokohama!
Whether you want to enjoy a relaxed sightseeing trip or go all out shopping, you’ll surely find the perfect spot for you. After checking out these recommended spots, why not head to Kawasaki with your family or friends?