In pictures: Exploring Japan’s art-filled industrial city

Kawasaki has stories and treasures untold if you knew where to look. Source: Shutterstock

LOCATED about 30 minutes away from Shibuya by train is Kawasaki in the Kanagawa prefecture, a hidden gem tucked between the Japanese capital city of Tokyo and Yokohama.

Mainly an industrial and dormitory city featuring famous companies as Ajinomoto, Daiichi Cement, Nippon Steel, Hitachi, Showa Denko, Toshiba, and Fuji Electric, Kawasaki has gained a reputation for being a blue-collar area.

But it has stories and treasures untold if you knew where to look.

Founded in 1924, Kawasaki City became a city designated by government ordinance in 1972. Today, it is known as Japan’s art-filled industrial city.

Its main attraction is the majestic and sprawling Kawasaki Daishi Temple. Kawasaki Daishi Temple was founded in 1128 and is dedicated to Kobo Daishi (774 to 835), the founder of the Shingon sect of Buddhism in Japan.

The temple was unfortunately destroyed in World War II but was later rebuilt. The reconstruction of the temple included its main gate, belfry, main hall, and Fudo Hall, which were completed in 1964.

Kawasaki is a popular suburb for those commuting to the Tokyo area. The area around Kawasaki Station boasts an abundance of shopping and entertainment opportunities, and a large circular space (Pizza Centrale) near the station is the venue for frequent festivals featuring regional cuisine and live entertainment.

Take a look at some of the features which have made Kawasaki an exciting, alternative tourist destination.