The Location of Kanagawa Prefecture

Kanagawa Prefecture is located near the center of Japan and borders Tokyo to the north. The region boasts diverse natural features, including 1,500-meter-class mountains, rivers flowing through the central area, numerous lakes, and the Sagami Bay. On the Tokyo Bay side, the Keihin Industrial Zone features well-developed ports.
Kanagawa is home to popular destinations such as the Shonan area, known for marine sports, the historic city of Kamakura, and the renowned hot spring resort of Hakone, highlighting its rich history and culture. The climate is warm and humid, characteristic of the Pacific side of Japan, with abundant rainfall supporting a wide variety of agricultural products. Livestock farming and seafood are also significant, and these resources contribute to a range of processed goods that are cherished as local specialties.

Yokohama City, known for its waterfront and Chinatown.

Like other prefectures, Kanagawa is experiencing a declining birthrate and an aging population, which is expected to lead to labor shortages. The number of foreign workers in Kanagawa is approximately 100,000, with most coming from China, Vietnam, and the Philippines. Over 20% are employed in manufacturing, while others work in wholesale and retail, service industries, and hospitality and food services.
In terms of residency status, more than 40% hold visas based on familial or personal ties, making this the largest group. Those in specialized or technical fields account for over 20%, while those engaged in activities outside their designated visa status and technical interns each make up just over 10%. Foreign workers play a crucial role in supporting Kanagawa's labor needs across a variety of sectors.