Located not too far outside of Tokyo by train is the historic seaside town of Kamakura, a special place that still echoes of old Japan. With its over-40-foot-tall bronze statue of the Great Buddha, picturesque beaches, friendly locals, slower pace of living, and fantastic photo opportunities, Kamakura is a favorite sightseeing destination. Where the town itself is traditional, the cuisine is often bold, expertly combining European influences with ancient Japanese favorites. For travelers planning to visit this hidden gem, here are 8 essential Kamakura restaurants to add to the itinerary.

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Yokohama is a vibrant port city located directly to the south of Tokyo. It’s considered part of the Greater Tokyo Area, a metropolis that encompasses Tokyo, Yokohama, and Saitama, but has its own unique character that sets it apart from its neighbors. As one of the first port cities to open to foreign trade in Japan, Yokohama has cultivated an international vibe that is clearly reflected in the massive variety of dining options found within its city limits. Check out these 12 select Yokohama restaurants that span the breadth of local and international cuisine.

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Yokohama Chinatown, located about 30 minutes away from Tokyo by train, is the largest Chinatown in Japan and throughout Asia. The busy district was established in the late 1800s as an international port and today is a popular urban destination both for sightseeing and dining. Yokohama Chinatown is bordered by four colorful gates, one on each side, and contains over 250 Chinese-owned or Chinese-themed shops and restaurants within the space of about 300 square meters. It’s an excellent place to try various styles of Chinese food, from spicy Sichuan cuisine to Taiwanese Chinese food to the Japanese style of Chinese food known as chuka-ryori. Here are 6 Yokohama Chinatown restaurants that offer a tantalizing glimpse into the wide variety of Chinese cuisine that the area has to offer.

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