Things To Do
in Ayase

Ayase is a charming city located in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan, known for its blend of urban convenience and natural beauty. It is characterized by its peaceful atmosphere, historical landmarks, and proximity to Tokyo, making it an ideal spot for visitors seeking a less crowded experience. The city is home to several parks, temples, and local shops that showcase traditional Japanese culture.

Ayase also serves as a great base for exploring the surrounding areas, including the scenic landscapes of Kanagawa.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Ayase
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Ayase's local morning market where you can sample fresh produce and local delicacies. Afterward, visit the Ayase City Museum to learn about the area's history and culture.

afternoon
:

Head to the Ayase River Park for a relaxing picnic by the riverbanks, taking in the beautiful scenery. In the afternoon, explore the nearby Hoshinoya Temple, known for its serene gardens and historic architecture.

evening
:

Conclude your day with dinner at a local izakaya, trying out various small dishes and experiencing the local dining culture.

day 2
Day 2: Day Trip to Nearby Attractions
morning
:

Take a short train ride to the nearby city of Ebina to visit the Ebina Central Park and enjoy its expansive green spaces. Engage in some light walking or jogging along the park's paths.

afternoon
:

Visit the famous Odawara Castle, a historic site that provides insights into Japan's feudal past and offers stunning views from its tower.

evening
:

Return to Ayase and unwind at a local onsen (hot spring) for a relaxing end to your trip, followed by dinner at a ramen shop to try the local specialty.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$15
🍜Ramen Bowl$10
🥤Coffee$4
🚍Bus Ticket$2
🏨Hotel Night$80

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Less crowded compared to major tourist areas.
  • Rich cultural experiences with historical sites.
  • Beautiful natural scenery and parks.
  • Limited English signage in some areas.
  • Public transport may require transfers to reach further attractions.
  • Less nightlife variety compared to larger cities.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "はい" - Yes
  • "いいえ" - No

Places to Visit in Ayase

Visit one of these nice places.

Ayase River

A picturesque river that runs through the city, offering beautiful views, especially during cherry blossom season.

Hoshinoya Temple

This serene temple features traditional architecture and beautiful gardens, making it an ideal location for capturing the essence of Japanese culture.

Ayase City Park

A large park with walking paths and open spaces, perfect for capturing scenic landscape shots and enjoying nature.

Culinary Guide

Food in Ayase

Ayase offers a delightful culinary experience, blending traditional Japanese flavors with fresh local ingredients. Visitors can enjoy a variety of dishes that reflect the region's culture and history.

Ayase Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Shoyu Ramen

A flavorful soy sauce-based noodle soup, often served with local toppings like chashu (braised pork) and green onions.

Must-Try!

Kaiten Sushi

Conveyor-belt sushi that allows you to choose from a variety of fresh sushi plates as they pass by.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Ayase Morning Market

A vibrant market where locals sell fresh vegetables, fruits, and homemade snacks, providing a great opportunity for tasting local flavors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Ayase experiences a humid subtropical climate, with four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures averaging around 30°C. Winters are mild, with temperatures dropping to around 5°C. Spring and autumn are transitional seasons with pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, particularly during cherry blossom and autumn foliage periods.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Bowing

A customary greeting in Japan is bowing. It shows respect and appreciation when meeting someone.

Removing Shoes

It is customary to remove shoes when entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments. Always look for shoe racks.

Quiet Public Behavior

Maintaining a low volume in public spaces is considered polite. Avoid loud conversations in public transportation.

Safety Guide

Safety

Ayase is considered a safe city with low crime rates. Visitors should still remain vigilant, especially in crowded places. Emergency services can be contacted by dialing 110 for police and 119 for fire and medical emergencies. It's advisable to have travel insurance for added security.

Tipping in Ayase

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan. Good service is expected, and staff may feel insulted if offered a tip.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but cash is still preferred in many small establishments. ATMs that accept foreign cards are available.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring in Ayase features beautiful cherry blossoms, particularly along the river. The weather is mild, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

Summer

Summer can be hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C. It's a great time for local festivals, but visitors should stay hydrated and wear sunscreen.

Autumn

Autumn brings stunning fall foliage, especially in parks and temples. The weather is cooler and pleasant, perfect for hiking and outdoor exploration.

Winter

Winters are mild but can be chilly, with occasional snowfall. It's a quieter time to visit, ideal for enjoying indoor attractions and seasonal food offerings.

Nightlife Guide

Ayase at Night

Ayase offers a laid-back nightlife scene, with a mix of izakayas, karaoke bars, and small clubs. Most nightlife options are concentrated around the train station, making it easy to explore. Visitors can enjoy local beer and sake while socializing with friends or trying their hand at karaoke. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, catering to both locals and tourists.

Hiking in Ayase

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Takatori Mountain Trail

A popular hiking trail that offers stunning views of the surrounding area and is suitable for hikers of all skill levels.

Sengokuhara Trail

Located a short distance from Ayase, this trail is known for its beautiful landscapes and diverse flora, making it ideal for nature lovers.

Airports

How to reach Ayase by plane.

Haneda Airport (HND)

Located approximately 35 km from Ayase, Haneda Airport is one of Tokyo's primary airports, offering domestic and international flights. It provides convenient access to the city via public transport.

Getting Around

Walkability

Ayase is a walkable city with a compact downtown area that allows easy exploration on foot. Many attractions, restaurants, and parks are situated within walking distance from each other, making it convenient for visitors. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and pedestrian crossings are clearly marked, contributing to a pleasant walking experience.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Families

Ayase has a growing population of young families attracted by its suburban lifestyle, good schools, and parks.

Retirees

The city also has a significant number of retirees who enjoy the peaceful environment and community amenities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is immensely popular in Japan, with local teams often drawing large crowds. Ayase has its own amateur teams that engage the community.

Soccer

Soccer has gained popularity over the years, with local leagues and clubs providing opportunities for both players and spectators.

Transportation

Traffic

Ayase is well-connected by public transportation, including trains and buses that facilitate easy travel to nearby cities. The Odakyu Line and the Sagami Line provide frequent services to Tokyo and surrounding areas. Traffic can be busy during peak hours, but the public transport system is efficient, making it a reliable option for getting around.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ayase.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While Japanese cuisine is often seafood-heavy, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, especially in urban areas. It's advisable to check menus or ask staff for vegetarian options.

Allergy Awareness

If you have food allergies, it is recommended to carry a translation card that specifies your allergies in Japanese to communicate with restaurant staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Ayase is generally good, with several clinics and hospitals available for residents and visitors. The Ayase City Hospital provides comprehensive services, and many clinics offer English-speaking staff. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, as some healthcare costs can be high for tourists.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide