Things To Do
in Hamura

Hamura is a charming city located in the western part of Tokyo Metropolis, known for its rich history and beautiful natural surroundings. It offers a unique blend of traditional Japanese culture and modern urban life, making it an attractive destination for visitors. The city is particularly famous for its delicious local soba noodles and serene parks.

With easy access to Tokyo's bustling city center, Hamura provides a peaceful retreat while still being close to the excitement of the capital.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Local Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Hamura City Museum to learn about the area’s history and culture. Afterward, take a stroll around the nearby Hamura Shrine, which is known for its beautiful architecture and serene environment.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local soba noodle shop, then head to the Hamura Flower Park, where you can wander through beautiful gardens and enjoy seasonal flowers.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional izakaya where you can sample various Japanese dishes. End your night with a peaceful walk along the riverside, enjoying the night views.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin with breakfast at a local café, then head to the nearby Tachikawa Showa Kinen Park for a morning of outdoor activities including cycling or walking through its expansive grounds.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it in the park. After lunch, visit the Showa Kinen Park's various attractions such as the Japanese Garden and the plum blossom grove.

evening
:

Return to Hamura for dinner at a local restaurant known for its yakitori. If you’re up for it, explore some local bars for a taste of the nightlife.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of Soba$8
🍣Sushi Meal$15
🍺Beer (pint)$5
Coffee$3
🚌Public Transport Ticket$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich in cultural experiences and history.
  • Delicious local cuisine, especially soba.
  • Easy access to Tokyo's attractions while maintaining a peaceful environment.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Some language barriers may exist.
  • Public transportation may be less frequent than in central Tokyo.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "おいしい" - Delicious
  • "すみません" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "トイレはどこですか?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Hamura

Visit one of these nice places.

Hamura Shrine

This historic shrine offers beautiful architecture and scenic views, making it a perfect spot for photography, especially during cherry blossom season.

Hamura Flower Park

A vibrant park filled with seasonal flowers, providing stunning backdrops for nature photography.

Showa Kinen Park

With its expansive landscapes, lakes, and gardens, this park is ideal for capturing picturesque views throughout the year.

Culinary Guide

Food in Hamura

Hamura is a culinary delight, known especially for its soba noodles, which are made from buckwheat and served in various styles. Visitors can explore a variety of local restaurants, markets, and street food vendors to experience authentic Japanese cuisine.

Hamura Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Soba Noodles

Hamura is famous for its handmade soba noodles, often served chilled with a dipping sauce or in a hot broth.

Must-Try!

Yakitori

Grilled chicken skewers, often served with a savory sauce, are a must-try dish when dining at izakayas.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Hamura Market

A local market that features fresh produce, snacks, and traditional Japanese food items, perfect for sampling local flavors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Hamura experiences four distinct seasons. Spring (March to May) offers mild temperatures with cherry blossoms blooming. Summer (June to August) can be hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Autumn (September to November) is cool and comfortable, with colorful foliage. Winter (December to February) is cold, with temperatures ranging from 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F), and occasional snowfall.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Personal Space

Japanese culture values personal space; avoid standing too close to others and maintain a respectful distance.

Bowing as a Greeting

Bowing is a traditional way to greet others in Japan, so be prepared to bow slightly when meeting someone.

Shoes Off Indoors

Always remove your shoes when entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments; slippers may be provided.

Safety Guide

Safety

Hamura is considered a safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any travel destination, it’s advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 110 for police and 119 for fire and medical emergencies.

Tipping in Hamura

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan; excellent service is expected as part of the experience. Customers usually do not leave tips.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are becoming more common. It’s good to carry some cash, especially for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with beautiful cherry blossoms in bloom, making it a great time for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Summers can be hot and humid, perfect for enjoying summer festivals and local events, but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

Fall brings cooler temperatures and stunning autumn foliage, ideal for leisurely walks in parks and gardens.

Winter

Winters are cold, with occasional snowfall. It's an excellent time to enjoy warm soba noodles and cozy indoor experiences.

Nightlife Guide

Hamura at Night

Hamura's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities like Tokyo, but it offers a charming mix of local izakayas, bars, and karaoke spots. Visitors can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere in cozy pubs, often filled with friendly locals. The nightlife scene is perfect for those looking to unwind after a day of exploration, with many venues offering a variety of drinks and traditional Japanese snacks.

Hiking in Hamura

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Tama River Hiking Trail

A scenic trail along the Tama River, offering beautiful views and a peaceful hiking experience, suitable for all skill levels.

Yuyake Dandan Hills

Located a short distance from Hamura, this area features trails that wind through lush greenery and provide panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Airports

How to reach Hamura by plane.

Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND)

Approximately 45 minutes from Hamura by train, Haneda Airport is one of the primary international gateways to Tokyo, offering numerous domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Hamura is quite walkable, especially in areas around the city center and local parks. Many attractions are within walking distance, and pedestrian paths are well-maintained. Sidewalks are generally wide and safe, making it easy for visitors to explore on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Families

Hamura is home to many young families attracted by its suburban feel, parks, and good schools.

Senior Citizens

The city has a significant population of senior citizens, often seen enjoying the parks and community events.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a favorite pastime in Japan, with many local teams and amateur leagues thriving in the area.

Soccer

Soccer enjoys popularity among younger generations, with various clubs and youth leagues actively participating in competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Hamura is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bike. Public transportation includes buses and trains, with regular services connecting to larger cities like Tokyo. However, during peak hours, trains may become crowded, so plan accordingly.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Hamura.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most soba restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it's advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly.

Gluten-Free

While soba noodles are made from buckwheat, they may be processed in facilities that handle gluten. Check with restaurants for gluten-free options.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Hamura is of high quality, with several clinics and hospitals available for residents and visitors. Emergency services are prompt, and most healthcare facilities are equipped with English-speaking staff. It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide