Things To Do
in Hayama
Hayama is a quiet, scenic coastal town in Kanagawa Prefecture known for its pristine beaches and hillside retreats. Nestled between Sagami Bay and lush nature, it offers a relaxed pace while staying within easy reach of Kamakura and Tokyo. The coastline is dotted with beaches like Isshiki and Morito, great for sunrises, seafood, and sunset views.
Visitors come for seaside walks, fresh seafood, and a taste of the Shonan lifestyle.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk along the beautiful Hayama coastline, where the sun rises over the tranquil waters. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a seaside café, savoring local specialties while taking in the stunning ocean views. The sound of waves crashing on the shore sets a peaceful tone for the day ahead.
After your morning adventures, head to the Hayama Imperial Villa, an elegant retreat showcasing beautiful gardens and historical architecture. Spend your afternoon strolling through the lush greenery and admiring the picturesque views of Sagami Bay. Don't forget to capture this scenic paradise with some photographs.
As the sun sets, find a charming restaurant in Hayama offering fresh seafood caught from local waters. Relish an exquisite dinner while the sky transforms into a palette of oranges and purples. Take a post-dinner stroll along the beach, soaking in the serene ambiance and the sound of the waves.
Begin your day with a visit to the Hayama Museum, where you can explore local art and history that reflects the culture of this coastal town. The museum’s peaceful atmosphere provides an ideal setting for contemplation as you immerse yourself in the creative works of regional artists. After your visit, enjoy a light breakfast at a nearby café featuring traditional Japanese pastries.
Take a trip to the nearby Zushi Beach for a fun-filled afternoon, where you can swim, sunbathe, or rent a paddleboat. The beachside atmosphere is perfect for relaxation or enjoying beach activities with the local community. As you unwind, savor local snacks from beach vendors to keep your energy up.
For dinner, sample a traditional kaiseki meal that showcases seasonal ingredients and the artistry of Japanese cuisine. After your meal, join a local cultural event or festival if one is happening, where you can experience traditional music and dance performances. End your day by wandering through the beautifully lit streets of Hayama, reflecting on the day’s adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🚆One-way local transport fare | $2-5 |
| 🏨Hotel room per night (mid-range) | $120-180 |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $3-5 |
| 🛍️Souvenirs | $10-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning coastal scenery and easy access to Kamakura
- Relaxed, village-scale atmosphere with seafood-forward cuisine
- Compact town that’s walkable and bike-friendly
- Limited nightlife and few large entertainment venues
- Seasonal beach crowds can affect parking and space
- Some attractions and facilities may have limited hours outside peak season
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
- "すみません" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "お願いします" - Please / I would like
- "英語を話せますか？" - Do you speak English?
- "いくらですか" - How much is this?
Places to Visit in Hayama
Visit one of these nice places.
Long stretch of sand with golden light over the water, perfect for early-morning silhouettes and seascapes.
Cliffs and waves with dramatic sunsets; a classic spot for silhouettes against the glowing horizon.
Elevated viewpoint along the coast offering panoramic Sagami Bay vistas and offshore rock formations.
Food in Hayama
Hayama Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rice bowl topped with fresh shirasu (whitebait) from nearby waters, often accompanied by grated ginger or spring onions.
Must-Try!
A colorful seafood donburi layered with sashimi-grade fish and shellfish, ideal at seaside restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal fish stalls and small bite-size seafood morsels along the beachfront, perfect for tasting local seafood straight from the nets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Keep voices down in public spaces and on trains; avoid loud conversations on public transport.
Remove shoes when entering traditional spaces or some homes and certain venues; use provided slippers where offered.
Be mindful during photos, follow posted rules, and show respect during rituals.
Safety
Tipping in Hayama
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan; excellent service is expected as standard. Some tourist-focused places may add a service charge.
Cash is widely accepted; major credit cards are increasingly supported, especially in restaurants and hotels. Some small shops and markets may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasant temperatures, blooming coastal flora, and fewer crowds; ideal for coastal walks and temple visits in nearby Kamakura.
Warm to hot with beach activities and water sports; pick shaded spots and stay hydrated; typhoon season can bring sudden rain.
Milder weather and vibrant foliage along hill trails; great time for photography and leisurely coastal strolls.
Cool but rarely freezing; quieter beaches and crisp ocean air; some cafes may have reduced hours.
Hayama at Night
Hiking in Hayama
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic route along the shoreline with ocean views and occasional viewpoints.
Gentle to moderate trails through wooded hills offering elevated views over Sagami Bay.
Airports
How to reach Hayama by plane.
Major international and domestic flights; reachable by train or car from Hayama in about 60-90 minutes.
Main international gateway; longer transit to Hayama, typically via train to Yokohama or Tokyo and onward to Kamakura/Zushi.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families, retirees, and long-time residents; many second-home owners visit seasonally.
Visitors attracted by beaches, coastal scenery, and easy day trips to Kamakura and Tokyo.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely practiced on Sagami Bay beaches during warmer months; rental shops and lessons available locally.
Occasional events and casual games on public beaches during summer.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hayama.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries offer vegetable-forward dishes and rice bowls; look for curry, tofu, or vegetable tempura options, and ask for dashi-free broths when needed.