Below is the list of cities and towns in 🇯🇵 Japan whose name begins with the letter K. You will also find some general information about each of them.
| Name | Japanese Name | Prefecture | Population |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kagoshima | 鹿児島 | Kagoshima | 593,000 |
| Kamakura | 鎌倉 | Kanagawa | 172,000 |
| Kariya | 刈谷 | Aichi | 153,000 |
| Kashiwa | 柏 | Chiba | 434,000 |
| Kasugai | 春日井 | Aichi | 311,000 |
| Kitakyushu | 北九州 | Fukuoka | 945,000 |
| Kyoto | 京都 | Kyoto | 1,465,000 |
| Kobe | 神戸 | Hyogo | 1,540,000 |
| Kofu | 甲府 | Yamanashi | 188,000 |
| Kurume | 久留米 | Fukuoka | 303,000 |
Kagoshima (鹿児島)
Pronunciation: “kah-go-shee-mah”
Kagoshima is the capital city of Kagoshima Prefecture, located in the southwestern tip of Kyushu. Known as the “Naples of the Eastern World,” Kagoshima is famous for its active volcano, Sakurajima, which dominates the skyline. The city’s name means “deer island,” reflecting its natural surroundings. Kagoshima is also known for its hot springs, historical sites, and role in the Meiji Restoration.
Kamakura (鎌倉)
Pronunciation: “kah-mah-koo-rah”
Kamakura is a coastal city in Kanagawa Prefecture, just south of Tokyo. The name Kamakura means “sickle storehouse,” possibly referring to its historical role in agriculture. Kamakura was the political center of Japan during the Kamakura shogunate (1192–1333) and is now famous for its many temples, shrines, and the Great Buddha of Kamakura, a massive bronze statue.
Kariya (刈谷)
Pronunciation: “kah-ree-yah”
Kariya is a city in Aichi Prefecture, located near Nagoya. The name Kariya comes from the word for “mow” or “cut,” reflecting its historical ties to agriculture. Today, Kariya is an industrial hub, home to several automobile-related industries, and is known for its technological advancements. The city also features parks and cultural attractions.
Kashiwa (柏)
Pronunciation: “kah-shee-wah”
Kashiwa is a city in Chiba Prefecture, part of the Greater Tokyo Area. The name Kashiwa means “oak,” referring to the tree species common in the area. Kashiwa is known for its modern shopping centers and bustling city atmosphere, while still being surrounded by nature. The city is also a transportation hub, making it convenient for commuting to Tokyo.
Kasugai (春日井)
Pronunciation: “kah-soo-gah-ee”
Kasugai is a city in Aichi Prefecture, located close to Nagoya. The name Kasugai means “spring day well,” reflecting its lush natural environment. Kasugai is known for its production of Japanese pears and its thriving manufacturing sector. The city is a mix of urban and rural landscapes, offering a balance of modern conveniences and traditional culture.
Kitakyushu (北九州)
Pronunciation: “kee-tah-kyoo-shoo”
Kitakyushu is a large city in Fukuoka Prefecture, located in northern Kyushu. Its name means “northern Kyushu,” and it is an industrial powerhouse with a rich history in steel production. Kitakyushu is also known for its scenic coastlines, vibrant port area, and historical sites such as Kokura Castle. The city is a vital transportation and trade hub, connecting Japan to the rest of Asia.
Kyoto (京都)
Pronunciation: “kyoh-toh”
Kyoto is one of Japan’s most famous cities, located in the Kansai region. As the former capital of Japan for over a thousand years, Kyoto is renowned for its historic temples, shrines, and gardens. The name Kyoto means “capital city,” reflecting its historical importance. Kyoto is also known for its cultural heritage, including tea ceremonies, traditional crafts, and annual festivals like Gion Matsuri.
Kobe (神戸)
Pronunciation: “koh-beh”
Kobe is a major port city in Hyogo Prefecture, located on the southern side of Honshu. The name Kobe means “God’s door,” referencing its history as a place of worship. Kobe is famous for its cosmopolitan atmosphere, diverse population, and Kobe beef, one of the world’s finest meats. The city is also known for its waterfront attractions and the beautiful Rokko mountain range.
Kofu (甲府)
Pronunciation: “koh-foo”
Kofu is the capital city of Yamanashi Prefecture, located in central Honshu. The name Kofu means “armor town,” as it was historically a samurai stronghold. Kofu is surrounded by mountains, including the iconic Mount Fuji, and is known for its wine production, particularly the Koshu variety. The city also offers hot springs and beautiful natural scenery.
Kurume (久留米)
Pronunciation: “koo-roo-meh”
Kurume is a city in Fukuoka Prefecture, located in northern Kyushu. The name Kurume means “long stay,” reflecting its historical significance as a rest stop for travelers. Kurume is known for its rich cultural traditions, including textile production (Kurume Kasuri) and its local ramen. The city also has numerous historical sites, including temples and shrines.
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