Things To Do
in Hamura
Hamura is a small city located in the western part of Tokyo. It is known for its peaceful residential areas and close proximity to nature, with the Tama River running through the city. The city is also home to several parks and gardens, providing a serene atmosphere for residents and visitors alike.
Hamura's local shops and restaurants offer a mix of traditional and modern amenities, making it a charming and convenient place to live.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Hamura Silk Center to learn about the region’s silk production history. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the on-site garden.
Head to the Hamura Shrine, known for its beautiful architecture and tranquil setting. Take time to appreciate the decorative details and the surrounding forest.
Relax at a local izakaya to experience traditional Japanese cuisine. Enjoy some sake while you soak in the friendly atmosphere.
Visit the Hamura Park, which offers a serene environment perfect for a morning walk. The cherry blossoms are especially lovely in spring.
Have a picnic in the park and enjoy the beautiful scenery around you. You can also rent a bike to explore more of the area.
Wrap up your day at a nearby café for a sweet treat or some coffee. The cozy ambiance makes it a great place to unwind.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with traditional festivals and events
- Beautiful natural scenery, including parks and rivers
- Close proximity to Tokyo, providing easy access to urban amenities
- Strong sense of community and local involvement
- Access to excellent local cuisine, especially seafood
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities
- Potentially higher living costs due to proximity to Tokyo
- Less job diversity and opportunities compared to metropolitan areas
- Limited entertainment and shopping options
- Risk of natural disasters, such as earthquakes and typhoons
Best Activities in Hamura
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a scenic bike ride along the Tama River Cycling Road, which offers a beautiful natural setting and designated cycling paths.
Explore the picturesque landscapes and lush forests of the Okutama Mountains through various hiking trails suitable for different skill levels.
Relax in the serene surroundings of Hamura Dam Park, a perfect spot for picnicking and enjoying the peaceful waterside ambiance.
Experience the tranquility of Lake Okutama by kayaking or canoeing, offering a unique perspective of the surrounding natural beauty.
Tours
Uncover the best of Hamura with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Hamura
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the Tanzawa mountain range and surrounding area.
Scenic lake with opportunities for beautiful photos, especially during sunset.
Provides picturesque views of the dam and surrounding nature.
Food in Hamura
Hamura Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich and creamy pork bone broth served with chewy ramen noodles, tender slices of chashu (braised pork), and various toppings. Try this iconic dish at Ramen Takahashi, known for its flavorful and addictively tasty ramen.
Must-Try!
Enjoy the nutty and earthy flavor of handmade soba noodles at Sarashina Horii, a renowned restaurant famous for its delicate and delicious soba dishes that are a true reflection of Japanese culinary artistry.
Indulge in a fish-shaped cake filled with sweet red bean paste, custard, or chocolate at the charming Taiyaki Wakaba stand, where you'll find these freshly baked treats that are a beloved and nostalgic Japanese snack.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Hamura better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the lively Hamura Market, brimming with an array of fresh produce, seafood, and local snacks. Sample delicious yakitori skewers and imagawayaki (sweet filled pancakes) from the street food stalls for an authentic taste of the local flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Hamura, it's important to be polite and respectful in all interactions. This includes using formal language, bowing when greeting others, and showing deference to elders.
It's customary to remove your shoes before entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments such as ryokan (Japanese inns) and some restaurants. This shows respect for the cleanliness of the indoor space.
When dining in Hamura, observe proper table manners such as saying 'itadakimasu' before meals, not sticking chopsticks upright in rice, and avoiding wastefulness when eating. Following these customs shows respect for the food and the dining experience.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Hamura with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Hamura
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Japan, including in Hamura. It is generally not expected or required to tip at restaurants, hotels, or for any other services. In fact, tipping may be considered rude or awkward in Japanese culture.
In Hamura, Japan, cash is the most commonly used form of payment. Credit cards are also widely accepted, especially in larger establishments and tourist areas. It's important to note that some smaller businesses, local shops, and traditional establishments may only accept cash, so it's advisable to carry sufficient yen when visiting Hamura.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Hamura.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Hamura, Japan is during spring (March to May) when cherry blossoms are in full bloom, creating a beautiful and picturesque scenery.
Summer (June to August) in Hamura is hot and humid, perfect for enjoying outdoor activities and taking part in local summer festivals.
Autumn (September to November) offers cool and pleasant weather, with stunning foliage and the opportunity to experience traditional autumn festivals.
Winter (December to February) is cold, but visitors can enjoy beautiful snowy landscapes and partake in winter activities such as skiing and hot spring baths.
Hamura at Night
Hiking in Hamura
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail along the Tama River, offering beautiful views and opportunities for birdwatching.
A large park featuring walking paths, wooded areas, and open spaces, ideal for a leisurely hike.
This park offers various trails with uphill paths and is perfect for those looking to enjoy nature and exercise.
A beautiful forest area with well-marked trails, providing a peaceful retreat from the city.
Located slightly further out, this park has a lovely walking path around a pond and wooded areas for a tranquil hiking experience.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Hamura through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Hamura by plane.
Located approximately 60 kilometers east of Hamura, Narita International Airport is one of Japan's primary international airports, serving as a major gateway for international travelers.
Situated about 40 kilometers south of Hamura, Haneda Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world and handles a significant number of domestic and international flights.
Located in Osaka, approximately 400 kilometers west of Hamura, Kansai International Airport is a major international airport that connects Japan with various global destinations.
Approximately 350 kilometers southwest of Hamura, Chubu Centrair International Airport serves the Nagoya area and is a key international gateway for central Japan.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Hamura, primarily consisting of individuals of Japanese nationality.
Includes individuals from various countries who reside in Hamura, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area.
The Soul of Hamura
Discover the essence of Hamura through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
One of the most popular sports in Hamura, baseball is widely played at schools and local clubs, with community teams regularly participating in local leagues.
Soccer has a strong following in Hamura, with many youth organizations and amateur leagues promoting the sport among children and adults alike.
Basketball is gaining popularity, especially among young people, with local schools and community centers providing facilities for practice and competition.
Volleyball is enjoyed by both men and women in Hamura, often played recreationally at local gyms and during school activities.
Various forms of martial arts, including judo and karate, are practiced in Hamura, with several dojos available for training.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hamura.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Japanese cuisine heavily features seafood and meat, some restaurants in Hamura offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes such as vegetable tempura, agedashi tofu, and vegetable sushi. It's recommended to communicate your dietary preferences clearly to the staff for a customized dining experience.
Although gluten-free awareness is increasing in Japan, it's essential to be cautious as soy sauce and other condiments containing gluten are commonly used. Opt for rice-based dishes like sushi, sashimi, and rice balls, and communicate your dietary needs to ensure a safe and enjoyable dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Hamura with these cultural adventures.
