Ayase

Day Trips

Start your day by visiting the Ayase City Historical Museum, where you can immerse yourself in the rich history of the region through fascinating exhibits. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the nearby Ayase Shrine, appreciating its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful architecture. Don’t forget to enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast at a local café, featuring seasonal ingredients.

In the afternoon, head towards the scenic Ayase River for a relaxing walk along its banks, where you can observe local wildlife and perhaps spot some herons. Stop for lunch at a nearby izakaya, sampling delicious local dishes such as sashimi and grilled fish. Following your meal, visit the nearby JAXA Space Center to learn about Japan's space exploration efforts and see some impressive exhibits.

As the sun sets, find a cozy spot in a local izakaya to enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner, highlighting the best of seasonal ingredients. After dinner, take a stroll through the illuminated streets of Ayase, soaking in the charming atmosphere of this quaint city. Conclude your evening with a relaxing tea ceremony at a local teahouse, embracing the tranquility of Japanese culture.

Begin your day with a visit to the beautiful Kōmyō-ji Temple, where you can participate in a morning meditation session led by a resident monk. After the meditation, take time to explore the serene gardens surrounding the temple, filled with carefully manicured landscapes. Enjoy a simple yet delicious breakfast at a nearby bakery, sampling freshly baked melon bread.

In the afternoon, explore the nearby Sannō-ji Temple, known for its stunning architecture and peaceful ambiance. Engage in a traditional calligraphy workshop, where you’ll learn the art of Japanese writing and create your own masterpiece. For lunch, savor some udon noodles at a local eatery, experiencing the comforting flavors of this beloved dish.

As evening approaches, attend a local cultural performance, such as a traditional dance or music event, held at the community center. After the performance, find a quaint café for dessert, indulging in matcha-flavored treats or seasonal sweets. Wrap up your evening with a leisurely stroll through a local park, enjoying the serenity of the night sky.

Kick off your day with an energizing hike at the nearby Kōbō Mountain, enjoying the fresh air and beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. Bring along a packed breakfast to enjoy at the summit, relishing the sense of accomplishment while taking in panoramic vistas. After your meal, explore the various trails that wind through the mountain, encountering unique flora and fauna.

After your hike, visit the Ayase Nature Park for a picnic lunch, where you can relax and unwind amidst nature. Spend the afternoon walking along the park's trails, observing the vibrant flowers and perhaps even spotting some local wildlife. Consider renting a bike to explore the area, giving you a chance to cover more ground while enjoying the fresh air.

As the sun sets, find a local restaurant to enjoy a hearty dinner, featuring grilled meats and fresh seafood, reflecting the region's culinary delights. After dinner, visit a local onsen (hot spring) to soak away the fatigue of the day in soothing waters. Relax in the tranquil environment, listening to the gentle sounds of nature around you.

Take an early train from Ayase to Enoshima Island, where you can start your day by exploring the famous Enoshima Shrine and its beautiful surroundings. Climb to the top of the island for breathtaking views of the ocean and Mount Fuji in the distance. Enjoy a breakfast of fresh seafood at a local stall, sampling delicacies like grilled squid and fish cakes.

Spend your afternoon wandering around Enoshima, visiting the Enoshima Sea Candle lighthouse for panoramic views of Sagami Bay. Explore the island's caves, where you can learn about the historical and geological significance of the area. Stop for lunch at a café with a view of the sea, enjoying dishes that highlight the local cuisine.

As evening approaches, relax on the beach, watching the sunset paint the sky with vibrant colors. Savor dinner at a seaside restaurant, indulging in local specialties such as shirasu-don (whitebait rice bowl). Before heading back to Ayase, take a stroll along the beach promenade, soaking in the nightly ambiance and ocean breeze.

Start your day with a visit to the Ayase Art Museum, where you can admire contemporary and traditional Japanese artworks. Participate in a guided tour to gain insights into the artist's inspirations and techniques. After exploring the museum, enjoy a breakfast of Japanese pancakes at a nearby café, topped with seasonal fruits.

In the afternoon, engage in a pottery class at a local studio, where you can create your own ceramic piece guided by an experienced artist. After your creative session, take a break for lunch at a nearby soba restaurant, enjoying the flavors of freshly made buckwheat noodles. Spend some time exploring local art galleries, where you can discover the works of emerging artists in the area.

As night falls, attend a local art exhibit opening to meet artists and fellow art enthusiasts. Enjoy light refreshments while discussing the pieces on display, gaining a deeper appreciation for the local art scene. Conclude your evening with a quiet walk along the river, reflecting on your day filled with creativity and inspiration.

Join a traditional cooking class where you’ll learn to prepare classic Japanese dishes using fresh, local ingredients. Start with a market visit to gather ingredients, learning about seasonal produce and Japanese culinary traditions. After returning to the kitchen, immerse yourself in the cooking process and gain hands-on experience in creating dishes like sushi and miso soup.

After your cooking session, enjoy the fruits of your labor by savoring the delicious meal you’ve prepared. Share stories with your fellow participants, learning about their backgrounds and culinary experiences. Spend the afternoon relaxing at a nearby café, sipping on matcha lattes while discussing the intricacies of Japanese cuisine.

As the evening sets in, attend a local food festival, where you can sample a variety of street foods and regional specialties. Take the opportunity to try dishes you might not have encountered before, from takoyaki to yakitori. End your culinary adventure with a visit to a local sake brewery, where you can learn about the brewing process and taste different varieties of this traditional Japanese beverage.

Begin your day at the Ayase Morning Market, where you can browse through stalls selling fresh produce, local crafts, and delicious street food. Take your time to interact with vendors, learning about their products and the stories behind them. After exploring the market, enjoy a light breakfast of onigiri (rice balls) from a local vendor.

In the afternoon, head to the shopping district to explore local boutiques and artisan shops, where you can find unique souvenirs and handmade goods. Stop for lunch at a popular café, trying out a fusion dish that combines Western and Japanese flavors. Continue your shopping spree by visiting a local department store for a taste of modern Japanese retail culture.

As the sun sets, find a cozy bar or izakaya to enjoy dinner, sampling a variety of small plates paired with local sake or beer. Engage with locals and fellow travelers, sharing stories and laughter over a communal meal. End your day with a leisurely walk through the vibrant streets, taking in the sights and sounds of Ayase at night.

Treat yourself to a rejuvenating morning at a local spa, where you can indulge in a massage or facial treatment designed to relax and refresh. Spend time in the tranquil environment, enjoying the calming sounds and scents of nature. After your treatment, enjoy a light breakfast at the spa café, featuring healthy options like fruit smoothies and granola.

In the afternoon, visit a nearby park to take a leisurely stroll or simply relax on a bench, enjoying the peace and quiet of your surroundings. Consider practicing yoga or meditation in the park, allowing yourself to fully embrace the serene atmosphere. Treat yourself to a healthy lunch at a local vegetarian restaurant, focusing on nourishing and wholesome ingredients.

As evening approaches, enjoy a farewell dinner at a local fine dining restaurant, indulging in a multi-course meal that highlights seasonal ingredients and culinary artistry. Reflect on your journey through Ayase and the experiences you've had over the past ten days. After dinner, take a final evening walk through the city, soaking in the ambiance and beauty of Ayase before heading back to your accommodations.