Kanagawa Prefecture isn’t just famous for its iconic Mt. Fuji views and historic sites like Kamakura — it’s also a fantastic place to explore local cuisine and culinary traditions. What makes Kanagawa especially appealing for food tours is the region’s blend of authentic experiences, scenic settings, and regional specialties. Whether you want to craft your own food samples, explore charming seaside towns, or sample gourmet dishes alongside cultural visits, Kanagawa offers options that cater to all interests and tastes.
One experience that stands out is the Food Sample Making Experience with Professionals in Kanagawa, where you can create realistic plastic food models — a fun, hands-on activity perfect for families, foodies, or anyone curious about the art of Japanese food displays. For a deeper look into local culture and coastal scenery, the Private Hayama Tour with a Certified Guide offers a mix of historical sites and hidden beaches. And for those craving culinary delights on an island, the Gourmet Food and Temple Visit Tour in Enoshima provides a mix of traditional shopping, seafood tasting, and scenic cave exploration.
Below is a quick overview of our top picks — each offers a distinctive taste of Kanagawa’s culinary and cultural richness.
1. Food Sample Making Experience with Professionals in Kanagawa
If you’re curious about the art of Japanese food displays, this activity is a perfect choice. For just about $88, you get a 1.5-hour hands-on session where you actually make your own food sample, choosing from options like takoyaki, tart cakes, or bread clocks. The mold you work with is crafted from real food, so the final product looks just like the real thing — a fantastic souvenir and conversation piece. The instructor will guide you carefully, making it a stress-free experience even if you’re a complete beginner.
What makes this tour stand out is the personalized creative process and the ability to take home your handmade food sample. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers wanting a memorable, interactive activity that’s rooted in Japanese food culture. The experience’s high rating of 5.0/5 (based on one review) speaks to its quality. For $87.92, you get a memorable activity that combines art, culture, and a bit of humor, making it both fun and educational.
Bottom line: This tour offers a unique, hands-on craft that provides insight into Japanese food presentation — a memorable activity for all ages.
$87.92 per person
2. Private Hayama Tour with Certified Guide- Local Culture & Food
If you prefer a customized exploration that combines culture, history, and stunning scenery, the Private Hayama Tour is a superb choice. Priced at just $24.95 per person, it offers a 2.5-hour journey through a lesser-known, yet captivating, coastal town. The tour includes visits to Morito Shrine, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Mt. Fuji and the Obama coast, along with a stroll along Morito Beach. The guide will help you understand local customs, share interesting stories about the shrine, and show you hidden spots favored by locals.
This tour excels in offering a personalized experience with a knowledgeable guide, making it perfect for travelers seeking an authentic local feel. The highlight is the opportunity for cultural insights combined with scenic coastal views — a rare combination. While it currently has no reviews, the itinerary promises a relaxed, intimate look at a charming seaside town away from the crowds.
Bottom line: Ideal for those seeking a flexible, culturally rich tour where you can tailor the experience and enjoy beautiful scenery.
$24.95 per person
3. Gourmet Food and Temple Visit Tour in Enoshima
For around $85, this 2.5-hour tour offers a delicious dive into the flavors of Enoshima Island, combined with visits to historic sites. You’ll start on the Enoshima Benzaiten Nakamisedori, a centuries-old shopping street lined with shops selling seafood, souvenirs, and local snacks. Here, you can try famous shirasu rice bowls or tako senbei (octopus crackers), both specialties of the island. The street’s blend of historic charm and lively commerce makes it a favorite for visitors looking to taste local flavors while soaking in the atmosphere.
Next, you’ll visit Enoshima Shrine, established in the Kamakura period, offering beautiful views and a sense of history. The highlight is exploring the Iwaya Cave, a 6,000-year-old sea-carved formation that adds a sense of adventure. This tour is perfect for food lovers who also want a taste of cultural and natural wonders.
While it has no reviews yet, the combination of historic streets, seafood specialties, and scenic cave exploration offers excellent value. It’s a well-rounded experience that balances culinary delight with cultural insight.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who want a mix of gourmet food, shopping, and sightseeing on a charming island.
$85.11 per person
How to Choose
When deciding between these tours, consider your priorities. Want a creative activity? The Food Sample Making is perfect. Looking for a personalized cultural experience in a peaceful seaside town? The Hayama Tour fits the bill. Craving a culinary adventure combined with natural beauty? The Enoshima Gourmet Tour is a solid pick.
Think about your budget, time constraints, and interests. For example, if you’re short on time but want a memorable activity, the food sample making offers a quick yet meaningful experience. If you’re more interested in scenery and local culture, the Hayama or Enoshima tours provide a deeper dive into the region’s character. Remember to book early during peak seasons, particularly for the popular activities.
Final Thoughts
Kanagawa offers a fascinating array of food-related experiences that combine culinary fun with cultural and scenic highlights. For interactive activities, the Food Sample Making Experience is hard to beat. If you prefer a guided exploration of charming coastal towns, the Hayama Tour provides a relaxed, authentic taste of local life. And for a combination of seafood, shopping, and historic sights, the Enoshima Gourmet and Temple Tour hits the mark.
For travelers seeking a unique, memorable taste of Kanagawa, any of these tours will enrich your trip. Be sure to consider your interests and schedule, and don’t forget to book ahead to secure your spot in these popular experiences. Happy exploring!