Things To Do
in Ninomiya
Ninomiya is a quiet coastal town in Kanagawa Prefecture along Sagami Bay, easy to reach by rail. It blends a relaxed seaside vibe with convenient access to Kamakura, Enoshima, and the scenic Shonan coastline. The town is known for fresh seafood, modest temples, and pleasant promenade walks by the water.
It makes an ideal base for day trips from Tokyo while preserving a slower pace away from the capital.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing breakfast at a local café in Ninomiya, where you can enjoy freshly brewed coffee and traditional Japanese pastries. After breakfast, stroll through the charming streets of the historic center, admiring the traditional wooden architecture and small shops. Don’t miss the Ninomiya Shrine, where you can soak in the peaceful atmosphere and possibly catch a glimpse of local rituals.
In the afternoon, visit the Ninomiya Museum to learn about the town's rich history and cultural heritage through engaging exhibits. Following your museum visit, grab lunch at a nearby izakaya, sampling local dishes such as sushi and tempura. Take a leisurely walk to the scenic Enoshima Island, where you can explore its coastal beauty and enjoy stunning ocean views.
As the sun sets, head back to Ninomiya and dine at a traditional kaiseki restaurant, where you can savor a multi-course meal featuring seasonal ingredients. After dinner, take a peaceful stroll along the coastline, listening to the soothing sounds of the waves. End your evening by enjoying a local onsen experience, soaking in the warm, mineral-rich waters under the starry sky.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation, fueling up for a fun-filled day at the beach. Head to Ninomiya Beach, where you can rent a beach umbrella and sun loungers to relax under the sun. Take an early morning swim in the clear waters or try stand-up paddleboarding as the waves are gentle.
After a morning of relaxation, grab a beachside lunch from one of the food stalls offering fresh seafood and local snacks. Spend the afternoon engaging in exciting water sports like jet skiing or windsurfing, perfect for adrenaline seekers. Alternatively, join a guided snorkeling tour to explore the underwater life along the coast.
As the day winds down, enjoy a beach barbecue where you can grill local seafood and vegetables with friends or family. Relish the stunning sunset views while enjoying your meal, a perfect backdrop for memorable photos. After dinner, join a beach bonfire event, where you can share stories and enjoy the warm glow of the fire under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🚆Local one-way transport ticket | $3-5 |
| 🏨1-night mid-range hotel | $70-120 |
| 🍣Sushi or seafood dinner for one | $25-40 |
| 🛒Groceries for 2 people (1 week) | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close proximity to Kamakura and Enoshima with easy day trips
- Relaxed seaside vibe and friendly locals
- Limited nightlife compared with bigger cities
- Can be crowded on weekends during peak season at popular spots
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / Sorry to bother you
- "Arigatou gozaimasu" - Thank you very much
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Hai" - Yes
- "Iie" - No
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Koko wa doko desu ka?" - Where is this place?
- "Onegaishimasu" - Please / I would like
Places to Visit in Ninomiya
Visit one of these nice places.
Soft morning light over Sagami Bay with a broad shoreline and gentle waves; a classic coastal shot with the town silhouette in the distance.
Wide promenade with sea views, fishing boats, and seasonal activity for candid street and seascape photography.
Captured from the train or station area, this spot frames the coastline with the Enoden railway as a dynamic element.
Iconic lighthouse and gate against the ocean; a strong subject for evening golden hour and silhouette shots.
Food in Ninomiya
Ninomiya Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Rice bowl topped with tiny whitebait; best enjoyed at coastal markets or seaside eateries near Enoshima and Kamakura.
Must-Try!
A seafood rice bowl featuring a variety of fresh sashimi; commonly found at markets and casual restaurants in the area.
Lightly battered whitebait tempura, a regional favorite when available at seafood-focused spots by the coast.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small market near the station offering fresh seafood, skewer snacks, and quick bites perfect for a beachfront lunch.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Stand in line and speak softly on public transport; people queue up for trains and exits.
In many homes and traditional spaces you may be asked to remove shoes; keep spaces tidy and discard trash properly in designated bins.
Dress modestly at temples; speak quietly and do not touch sacred objects unless invited.
Use polite forms and bow slightly as a sign of respect when greeting locals.
Safety
Tipping in Ninomiya
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a normal practice in Japan; polite service is expected, and tipping is generally unnecessary. A simple thank you in Japanese goes a long way.
Cash is widely accepted, and many shops take credit cards. IC cards (Suica, Pasmo) work for trains and many stores; some smaller vendors may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with cherry blossoms in nearby Kamakura and coastal parks; great for temple visits and seaside strolls.
Warm to hot and humid; beach days and outdoor dining thrive, but typhoon season and occasional rain can interrupt plans.
Clear skies and comfortable temperatures; ideal for cycling along the coast and temple gardens with fall color.
Cool but often mild compared to inland Japan; fewer crowds, peaceful beaches, and cozy seaside cafes.
Ninomiya at Night
Hiking in Ninomiya
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal hiking with ocean views, accessible sections for day trips and photography stops.
Nearby Kamakura offers forested trails and temple routes that complement a Ninomiya visit.
Airports
How to reach Ninomiya by plane.
Main international and domestic hub; about 60-90 minutes by train and car to Ninomiya, depending on connections.
Longer transfer to the Shonan coast, typically 90 minutes to 2.5 hours via rail and bus connections.
A smaller option on the izu peninsula accessible from Tokyo; useful for regional travel but farther from Ninomiya.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families and retirees who value a calmer coastal living and easy access to Tokyo and Kamakura.
People who travel to Kanagawa and Tokyo for education and work, often using the Enoden line for quick trips.
Tourists drawn to Kamakura, Enoshima, and the Shonan coast, contributing to seasonal activity and dining options.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple activity along the Shonan coast; suitable for beginners at certain beaches with rental shops and lessons.
Common on sandy shores during warm months; casual pickup games and organized events appear near popular beaches.
Popular for early-morning jogs along the promenade and coastal paths.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ninomiya.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes are fish- and dashi-based, so opt for vegetable tempura, tofu dishes, salads, and rice bowls without fish stock. When dining out, ask for dashi-free broths and confirm ingredients with staff; nearby markets sometimes offer plant-based options, especially at cafes.