Things To Do
in Yamakita
Yamakita is a rural town in Kanagawa Prefecture, tucked among the forested foothills of the Tanzawa mountains. It serves as a tranquil gateway to hiking trails, rivers, and onsen towns, offering a retreat from Tokyo’s bustle. The town preserves a timeless, small-town charm with traditional inns, family-run eateries, and scenic valleys.
Visitors come to reconnect with nature, enjoy seasonal outdoor activities, and experience a slower pace of life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Yamakita Station and enjoy the beautiful countryside views that surround the area. Settle into your accommodation and freshen up after your journey. Grab a traditional Japanese breakfast at a local café to fuel up for the day ahead.
Take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Yamakita, visiting local shops and experiencing the warm hospitality of the residents. Visit the Yamakita Nature Museum to learn about the area's flora and fauna. Stop for lunch at a family-run restaurant that serves regional dishes made from fresh ingredients.
As the sun sets, head to a local onsen (hot spring) to relax and unwind after a full day of exploring. Enjoy dinner at a nearby izakaya, sampling various small dishes and beverages. Retire for the evening to enjoy the serene sounds of nature as you prepare for the adventures to come.
Embark on a hike up Mount Hakone, where you'll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The cool morning air and crisp foliage create a refreshing atmosphere for the trek. Remember to bring a packed breakfast to enjoy at a scenic lookout.
After reaching the summit, take some time to explore the area and visit the historic Hakone Shrine, nestled by the serene Lake Ashi. Enjoy a picnic lunch with locally sourced ingredients while soaking in the natural beauty around you. Visit the nearby Owakudani volcanic valley and sample black eggs boiled in the natural hot springs.
Return to Yamakita in the evening to freshen up. Explore the vibrant nightlife, stopping by a local bar or karaoke lounge for a fun night out. Share laughs and stories with new friends over drinks, immersing yourself in the lively culture.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🍱Meal at mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee/tea in cafe | $3-6 |
| 🧁Local dessert or snack | $2-5 |
| 🏨One-night hotel or ryokan | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Peaceful natural setting with mountaintop scenery
- Accessible hiking and onsens within a short trip from Tokyo
- Relaxed pace and authentic small-town Georgian Kanagawa feel
- Limited nightlife and dining options after dark
- Rural transport can be infrequent; plan ahead for buses or taxis
- "こんにちは" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
- "すみません" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "いくらですか？" - How much is this?
- "英語を話せますか？" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Yamakita
Visit one of these nice places.
A panoramic overlook with sweeping views of the Tanzawa mountains and valleys, especially striking at sunrise or sunset.
A photogenic iron bridge over a winding river framed by green hills and reflections in calmer waters.
A moss-covered trail with ancient cedar trees and shafts of light filtering through the canopy, ideal for atmospheric shots.
Food in Yamakita
Yamakita Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Buckwheat noodles made with locally milled buckwheat, served hot or cold with a light tsuyu and seasonal toppings.
Must-Try!
Tempura made from local wild greens and seasonal vegetables, lightly battered and served with dipping sauce.
Freshwater fish grilled with salt during the season, enjoyed with rice and pickles.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small market offering fresh produce, homemade pickles, and ready-to-eat snacks from local farmers.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Speak softly on trains and in public spaces; avoid loud conversations on public transport and in shared areas.
Remove shoes when entering homes, traditional accommodations, and some temples.
Stay on trails, do not litter, and observe wildlife without disturbing habitats.
Line up in an orderly fashion at platforms and bus stops; give consideration to elders and those in need.
Safety
Tipping in Yamakita
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan. If offered, it is best to politely decline and pay the standard bill.
Cash is widely accepted; many shops and inns also accept credit cards. Mobile payments are becoming more common in tourist areas, but carrying cash is wise in rural towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming flowers and fresh greenery; great for gentle hikes and riverside strolls.
Warm to hot days with cooler mountain air; humidity is common and afternoon showers can occur; carry water and a light rain layer.
Cool days with crisp air and spectacular fall colors across forests and ridges.
Cold temperatures with occasional snow on higher trails; hot springs are especially inviting after outdoor activities.
Yamakita at Night
Hiking in Yamakita
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A network of trails offering panoramic views of the Tanzawa Mountains; suitable for day hikes of varying difficulty.
A gentle forest trail leading to Oyama Shrine with peaceful surroundings and viewpoints.
A scenic riverside walk featuring mossy rocks, cedar groves, and calm waters; easy to moderate.
Airports
How to reach Yamakita by plane.
Major international and domestic gateway; about 1.5–2 hours by rail or car to Yamakita depending on routing.
East of Tokyo; longer transfer, roughly 2.5–3.5 hours to Yamakita by rail and road.
Smaller international airport serving the Mt. Fuji region; reachable via train and road through Shin-Fuji and Gotemba areas.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Multi-generational households are common; many families value the safe, outdoor-friendly environment.
Residents and visitors drawn to hiking, nature, and hot springs are prevalent in the area.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A cornerstone activity with access to the Tanzawa peaks and forest trails.
Low-traffic rural roads and scenic routes attract cyclists seeking mountain views.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Yamakita.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes feature vegetables and tofu; ask for no dashi or meat broth; look for soba, tempura, and tofu dishes labeled 'shojin' or vegetarian options.