Fujisawa

Day Trips

Begin your day with a scenic walk across the bridge to Enoshima Island, enjoying the fresh sea breeze and panoramic views of Sagami Bay. Explore the serene Enoshima Shrine complex, paying homage at its three main shrines that blend Shinto and Buddhist traditions. Take time to stroll through the lush gardens and caves, absorbing the island's mystical atmosphere and historical significance.

After a traditional seafood lunch at one of the island’s coastal restaurants, visit the Enoshima Sea Candle, a lighthouse observation tower offering breathtaking 360-degree views of Mount Fuji and the surrounding coastline. Wander through the Samuel Cocking Garden, admiring exotic plants and seasonal flowers. Cap your afternoon with a relaxing visit to the Enoshima Aquarium, where you can marvel at diverse marine life native to Sagami Bay.

As the sun sets, find a cozy spot along the beach to watch the vibrant colors reflect off the water, creating a perfect end to your island adventure. Dine at a local izakaya, sampling fresh sashimi and other regional delicacies while enjoying the lively atmosphere. Take a leisurely nighttime stroll back across the bridge, illuminated softly by lanterns, before returning to your accommodation.

Start your morning with a visit to the iconic Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, the spiritual heart of the region, where you can witness traditional rituals and admire the shrine's classic architecture. Explore the surrounding park, especially beautiful during cherry blossom season, and take photographs of the vibrant seasonal flowers. Absorb the peaceful ambiance as you walk along the stone pathways leading to the main hall.

Head to Komachi Street, a bustling pedestrian area filled with charming shops and eateries offering local crafts and street food. Savor specialty treats like sweet potato ice cream and rice crackers while browsing boutiques selling handmade souvenirs. Visit a traditional tea house to experience a calming Japanese tea ceremony, enriching your cultural understanding.

Enjoy dinner at a cozy restaurant featuring Kamakura-style cuisine, which emphasizes fresh, seasonal ingredients and delicate flavors. Afterward, immerse yourself in the lively yet intimate atmosphere of nearby cafes or bars popular with locals. Conclude your evening with a peaceful walk along the lantern-lit streets, soaking in the historic town’s serene nighttime charm.

Wake up early to catch the gentle morning waves and golden light at Shonan Beach, known for its laid-back vibe and stunning views of Mount Fuji on clear days. Rent a surfboard or join a beginner’s surfing lesson to experience the thrill of riding the Pacific swells. Alternatively, take a relaxing stroll along the sandy shoreline, collecting seashells and watching local fishermen at work.

Enjoy a beachfront lunch featuring freshly grilled seafood at one of the casual open-air cafes. Spend the afternoon trying stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking, immersing yourself in the refreshing ocean environment. For a change of pace, rent a bicycle and explore the scenic coastal paths lined with palm trees and vibrant beachside shops.

As dusk falls, settle into a seaside restaurant offering sunset views and indulge in a meal of seasonal fish paired with sake. Take time to relax on the beach, listening to the rhythmic sound of the waves and feeling the cool evening breeze. End your day by visiting a local beach bar where you can enjoy live music and mingle with fellow travelers.

Begin with a ride on the Shonan Monorail, an engineering marvel that offers spectacular views of Fujisawa and the surrounding hills. Disembark at Ofuna Station and explore the quaint streets lined with small temples and traditional shops. Visit the nearby Ofuna Kannon Temple, admiring its towering statue and tranquil gardens, perfect for peaceful contemplation.

Return to Fujisawa’s city center to explore the lively local markets, where vendors sell fresh produce, artisanal goods, and regional specialties. Sample street foods like yakitori and takoyaki while engaging with friendly stall owners eager to share the stories behind their products. Attend a short workshop on traditional crafts such as pottery or calligraphy, deepening your connection to the local culture.

Dine at a family-run restaurant featuring home-style Japanese cuisine, savoring dishes prepared with ingredients sourced from the local area. After dinner, stroll through the illuminated shopping arcade, absorbing the vibrant energy of the city’s nightlife. Finish your evening with a visit to a cozy café serving specialty coffee or matcha desserts, perfect for unwinding.

Escape the coast and venture into the verdant hills surrounding Fujisawa for a tranquil morning hike along well-marked trails. Discover hidden shrines nestled among towering cedar trees, each offering a unique glimpse into the spiritual heritage of the region. Listen to the gentle sounds of birds and flowing streams, allowing nature’s serenity to rejuvenate your senses.

Pause for a picnic lunch beneath ancient trees, sampling bento boxes filled with seasonal ingredients from local markets. Continue your exploration by visiting the historic Jufukuji Temple, renowned for its peaceful gardens and centuries-old architecture. Participate in a meditation session led by resident monks, gaining insight into Zen practices and mindfulness.

Return to town and enjoy a quiet dinner at a restaurant specializing in vegetable-based dishes inspired by Buddhist cuisine. Take a leisurely walk along quiet streets lined with lanterns, reflecting on the day’s peaceful experiences. Conclude your evening with a warm soak in an onsen or public bathhouse, soothing tired muscles and promoting relaxation.

Start your day at the Fujisawa City Museum, where engaging exhibits showcase the area’s rich history, from prehistoric times to modern developments. Participate in interactive displays and watch documentaries illustrating Fujisawa’s cultural evolution. Take a guided tour to deepen your understanding of the artifacts and historical narratives presented.

Visit local art galleries featuring works by contemporary Japanese artists inspired by the Shonan coast and its natural beauty. Attend a hands-on workshop in traditional crafts such as woodblock printing or ink painting, guided by skilled artisans. Enjoy a light lunch at a café nearby, surrounded by art installations that spark creativity and reflection.

Dine at an elegant restaurant known for its fusion of traditional and modern Japanese cuisine. After dinner, attend a cultural performance or concert if available, experiencing local talent in music or theater. End the night with a peaceful walk along the illuminated promenades, contemplating the day’s artistic inspirations.

Begin with a visit to the Enoshima Aquarium, marveling at the diverse marine exhibits including dolphins, sea turtles, and colorful tropical fish. Attend the lively dolphin show, where trainers demonstrate impressive aquatic skills and interactive behaviors. Explore the touch pools and educational displays that engage visitors of all ages.

Have lunch at the aquarium’s café offering kid-friendly meals and ocean views. Spend the afternoon at nearby Samuel Cocking Garden, where children can enjoy open spaces and spot seasonal flowers and butterflies. For active families, rent bicycles and take a scenic ride along the coastal paths or visit the nearby Enoshima Iwaya caves to explore fascinating geological formations.

Relax with a casual dinner at a family-friendly restaurant serving popular Japanese dishes like ramen and tempura. As evening falls, take a gentle stroll on the beach to watch the sunset, a perfect way to wind down. Return to your accommodation for a restful night, ready for more adventures ahead.

Spend your morning browsing the shops in Fujisawa’s bustling downtown area, discovering unique fashion boutiques, bookstores, and specialty food shops. Stop by a local bakery to sample freshly baked pastries infused with Japanese flavors such as matcha and red bean. Engage with shopkeepers who often share stories about their handcrafted products and local traditions.

Enjoy lunch at a popular ramen shop, savoring rich broths and perfectly cooked noodles, a true taste of Japanese comfort food. Afterward, visit a cooking school where you can learn to prepare traditional dishes like sushi or tempura under expert guidance. Explore smaller side streets for hidden gems, including artisanal dessert shops and sake tasting bars.

Dine at a high-end restaurant specializing in seasonal kaiseki cuisine, where each course is a work of art highlighting local ingredients. Take a post-dinner walk through illuminated streets, stopping by quaint cafes for dessert or tea. Experience the lively atmosphere of local night markets or festivals if your visit coincides with special events.

Rise early to witness a breathtaking sunrise at Shichirigahama Beach, where the first light reflects off the tranquil waters and illuminates distant Mount Fuji. Take a peaceful morning walk along the shore, feeling the cool sand beneath your feet and listening to the gentle waves. Capture stunning photographs of the changing sky hues and the iconic coastline.

Head to nearby cafes for a leisurely brunch featuring freshly brewed coffee and locally sourced ingredients. Explore the Shichirigahama area by foot or bike, discovering small art installations and hidden beachside shrines. Visit a pottery studio where you can observe or participate in traditional ceramic making, creating a personalized souvenir.

Enjoy a sunset dinner at a cliffside restaurant overlooking the ocean, where you can savor dishes inspired by the sea and surrounding farmland. Afterward, stroll along the illuminated coastal paths, enjoying the cool evening breeze and distant city lights. Reflect on the day’s natural beauty in a quiet bar offering locally brewed craft beers or sake.

Investigate local event calendars and spend your morning preparing for seasonal festivals unique to Fujisawa, such as summer fireworks or autumn harvest celebrations. Visit markets and vendor stalls to sample traditional festival foods like yakisoba and taiyaki. Engage with artisans demonstrating crafts like lantern making or yukata dressing, deepening your cultural appreciation.

Participate in festival activities such as traditional dance performances, taiko drumming workshops, or games that entertain visitors of all ages. Wander through streets adorned with vibrant decorations, feeling the communal spirit and joyous atmosphere. Take breaks at tea stands offering refreshing matcha or sweet treats to recharge.

Experience the magic of nighttime illuminations that transform local parks and temples into glowing wonderlands. Watch spectacular fireworks displays over the water if your visit coincides with such events, letting the bursts of color dazzle your senses. End your evening with a quiet walk back through softly lit streets, cherishing the festive memories made.