The three destinations for entertainment, tradition and relaxation on a golf trip through Kanagawa are Yokohama, Kamakura, and Hakone, respectively.
Not far from Yokohama station directly by the water, the Minato Miari 21 port area is wonderful for shopping and fine dining. Here, you will also find the Yokohama Museum of Art and the Mitsubishi Industrial Museum with exhibits of the latest technologies. The Nippon Maru Memorial Park located at the southern end of Minato Mirai 21 is home to the Sail Training Ship Nippon Maru. This impressive structure was built in 1930 and has acted as a training ship for young cadets. Now it is open to the public and a great site to visit with the entire family.
Another few miles to the south is Yokohama Chukagai - the oldest and largest Chinatown in Asia. The Chinese shops and temples are so vibrant and colorful, they’re a must-see. The dumplings sold on the street are said to be the best outside of China.
Just 30 minutes south of Yokohama you can explore Kamakura, known for its countless temples and shrines. Take a walk among the quaint streets of the coastal town, visit the Kamakura Daibutsu, (the Great Buddha of Kamakura), and try making some Japanese pottery. Closeby, Enoshima Island as well as the relaxing Enoshima Island Spa is always worth a visit as well.
If you’d like your peace and quiet and want to escape into nature, Hakone is where you need to go. A short walk through the woods by Lake Ashi, Hakone Shrine stands secluded and peaceful. A good soak in the hot springs in one of the traditional baths of Hakone will restore your body to its full vitality after a full day of playing golf or exploring the mountainous region.
Image: Great Buddha of Kamakura by Yoshikazu Okada https://flic.kr/p/cXbBLo