Things To Do
in Zama
Zama, Japan is a quiet suburban city in northwestern Kanagawa, just inland from Yokohawa. It blends leafy residential streets with a developing cafe and dining scene, all within easy reach of Tokyo via rail. The town feels relaxed and walkable, with parks, markets, and cultural spots that invite slow exploration.
Its proximity to rivers and hills offers quick nature escapes without long travel times.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin with a peaceful stroll in Zama Central Park as the morning dew glistens on the cherry blossoms. Pause at a local coffee stand for freshly brewed coffee and a selection of Japanese baked pastries. Explore the historic markers that detail the citys transformation from rice fields to urban landscape.
Head to Zama City Museum to uncover artifacts and interactive exhibits about local folklore and industry. Try your hand at a stamp rally, collecting stamps hidden throughout the museum grounds for a fun cultural souvenir. Grab a bento lunch from a nearby shop and picnic in the museum garden, absorbing the tranquil atmosphere.
Wander through the bustling shopping street of Ote Road, where neon signs illuminate small boutiques and traditional craft stalls. Sample street food favorites like takoyaki and yakitori from outdoor vendors, mingling with friendly locals. Finish the evening at a cozy izakaya, ordering regional sake and seasonal tapas while enjoying live acoustic performances.
Drive north to Miyagase Dam as the sun rises over the reservoir, casting golden reflections on the calm water. Join a guided boat tour that navigates through the emerald-green lake shores, learning about the dams construction and its role in flood control. Stretch your legs with a lakeside walk along the wooden boardwalk, breathing in the crisp mountain air.
Hike the scenic trails around Lake Sagami, passing through dense cedar forests and moss-covered stone lanterns. Stop at a hillside cafe overlooking the water for a hearty katsu curry and matcha latte, recharging for the journey ahead. Visit the Sagami Sky Park observatory to catch panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
Head back toward Zama as dusk settles, stopping at local roadside stands to sample grilled sweet potatoes and seasonal fruits. Relax with a hot foot bath at a small onsen by the lake, soothing tired muscles and listening to the distant call of cicadas. Return to town for a quiet dinner of shabu-shabu with freshly picked vegetables from nearby farms.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍣Sushi or donburi dish | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at cafe | $3-5 |
| 🚆Public transit (single ride) | $2-4 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $110-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Easy access to Tokyo and nature escapes
- Safe, walkable city with friendly locals
- Limited nightlife and English signage in some areas
- Smaller scale than major urban centers, fewer big-name attractions
- "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 to ask for
- "いくらですか？" - How much is this?
- "トイレはどこですか？" - Where is the toilet?
- "英語を話せますか？" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Zama
Visit one of these nice places.
A reflective riverside vista at golden hour with a city backdrop.
A historic gate or entry feature framed by street lamps, ideal for moody evening shots.
A tranquil space with traditional gates and lanterns, perfect for contemplative photography.
Colorful storefronts and signage offering lively street photography at night.
Food in Zama
Zama Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A soy-based ramen with a rich broth and springy noodles, a staple at casual ramen shops.
Must-Try!
Thick udon in a hot dashi broth topped with lightly battered tempura.
A comforting curry sauce served over rice with a crisp pork cutlet.
A savory pancake with cabbage and various toppings, cooked at specialty eateries.
Seasonal fish selections served with rice and pickles.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Traditional stalls offering fresh produce, prepared foods, and street snacks; best in the morning.
Seasonal vendors offering grilled skewers, taiyaki, and sweets along the river path.
Evening market with small bites, drinks, and local crafts (seasonal).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A light bow is customary; a handshake occurs in business contexts.
Remove shoes in homes and some traditional places; wear clean socks.
Keep voices down on trains and buses; phone conversations are discouraged.
Line up patiently for trains, buses, and elevators; adhere to schedules.
Safety
Tipping in Zama
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan; you generally do not tip. If you wish, a sincere thank-you in person is sufficient.
Cash is widely accepted; credit cards and mobile payments are common in urban areas. Have some cash for small shops and vending machines.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, humid days with the possibility of typhoons in late summer. Stay hydrated, carry a light rain jacket, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or evenings.
Pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage. Great for walks, hikes, and photography; humidity remains comfortable.
Mild to cool with crisp mornings. Layered clothing is key; sunshine can be bright but temperatures can dip near the coast.
Mild and blooming; cherry blossoms and fresh greens everywhere. Pollen can be high; bring a light jacket for cooler evenings.
Zama at Night
Hiking in Zama
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A gentle hillside loop offering city views and shaded forest sections; suitable for a few hours.
Flat riverside path ideal for easy hikes, sunset photography, and birdwatching.
Airports
How to reach Zama by plane.
Closest major international airport; accessible by rail and road from Zama in about 40-60 minutes depending on connections.
A farther option with multiple train routes and airport limousine bus options; typical travel time from Kanagawa cities ranges from 90 to 120 minutes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families choose Zama for its quiet neighborhoods, good schools, and green spaces.
Residents who travel to Yokohama or Tokyo for work via convenient rail links.
Local schools and campuses attract students and support services.
A growing number of foreign residents, often concentrated around the city center and transport hubs.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely played sport at schools and community levels with local games and leagues.
Popular in parks and school fields; local clubs offer weekend drop-ins.
Common in indoor gyms and community centers; casual pick-up games available.
Several nearby courses provide day passes and lessons for all levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Zama.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Zama, most dishes are fish-heavy; vegetarian options include tofu-based dishes, vegetable tempura, and salads. Ask for dashi-free broths and confirm ingredients in miso or soy-based sauces; many eateries will accommodate with notice.