Things To Do
in Hashimoto

Hashimoto is a charming city located in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan, nestled in the hills with stunning natural scenery. Known for its historic temples and shrines, it offers a glimpse into traditional Japanese culture. The region is also famous for its hot springs and outdoor activities, making it a popular destination for both tourists and locals.

With a rich blend of nature and history, Hashimoto provides an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Hashimoto Shrine, a serene site surrounded by lush greenery. Afterward, enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast at a local café.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby Tanzawa-Oyama Quasi-National Park for a guided nature walk, where you can appreciate the beautiful landscapes and wildlife.

evening
:

Dine at a local izakaya to experience authentic Japanese cuisine, followed by a stroll through the park to enjoy the evening tranquility.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin with a visit to the Hashimoto Art Museum, which showcases local artists and exhibitions. Enjoy a light lunch at a nearby bakery.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon at a local onsen (hot spring) for a relaxing soak, experiencing the rejuvenating properties of the mineral-rich waters.

evening
:

Conclude your trip with dinner at a kaiseki restaurant, where you can savor a multi-course Japanese meal, before exploring the town’s night market.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$15
Coffee$4
🥟Dumplings$8
🍜Ramen Bowl$10
🏨Hotel Night$75

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural scenery and outdoor activities
  • Rich cultural heritage with historic sites
  • Less crowded compared to major tourist destinations
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Some language barrier for non-Japanese speakers
  • Public transportation may require transfers to reach certain areas
  • "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 Hashimoto

Visit one of these nice places.

Hashimoto Shrine

Capture the beauty of this tranquil shrine, surrounded by lush greenery and traditional architecture.

Tanzawa-Oyama Quasi-National Park

Photograph the breathtaking landscapes, mountains, and seasonal flowers that change throughout the year.

Local Markets

Colorful stalls at the local food market provide vibrant subjects for street photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Hashimoto

Hashimoto offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing traditional Japanese dishes and local flavors.

Hashimoto Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Katsu Curry

A hearty dish featuring breaded and fried pork cutlet served with a rich curry sauce over rice.

Must-Try!

Yudofu

A simple and healthy dish made with boiled tofu, typically enjoyed with a dipping sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Hashimoto Food Market

A vibrant market offering fresh produce, local snacks, and street food stalls with various tasty treats.

Climate Guide

Weather

Hashimoto experiences a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F), while winter temperatures typically range from 1°C to 10°C (34°F to 50°F). Rainfall is frequent in the summer months, while spring and autumn provide more comfortable conditions for outdoor activities. Snowfall is rare but can occur in winter, particularly in the mountains.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Traditions

Always show respect when visiting shrines and temples; bowing is a common sign of respect.

Quietness in Public Spaces

Maintaining a low volume in public spaces is important; loud conversations are generally frowned upon.

Proper Chopstick Use

Avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice, as this resembles a funeral rite; place them on the chopstick holder instead.

Safety Guide

Safety

Hashimoto is considered a safe city with low crime rates. However, it's always wise to take standard precautions such as keeping your belongings secure and being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Natural disasters, such as earthquakes, can occur; familiarize yourself with evacuation routes and emergency procedures.

Tipping in Hashimoto

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan and may even be considered rude; instead, excellent service is expected.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are accepted in many places, but cash is still preferred, especially at smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings cherry blossoms, making it a picturesque time for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Summer can be warm and humid; it's perfect for hiking and enjoying the lush landscapes.

Autumn

Autumn showcases stunning fall foliage, ideal for photography and scenic walks.

Winter

Winter is mild; enjoy hot springs and festive illuminations throughout the city.

Nightlife Guide

Hashimoto at Night

Hashimoto's nightlife is relatively subdued compared to larger cities, but there are cozy izakayas and bars where you can enjoy local drinks and authentic Japanese cuisine. The atmosphere is friendly, and many places offer karaoke, making it a fun experience. Additionally, seasonal festivals may feature evening events with food stalls and entertainment, providing an insight into local culture.

Hiking in Hashimoto

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Tanzawa Trail

This popular trail offers various routes for hikers of all levels, with stunning views and diverse wildlife.

Kintoki Mountain Trail

A more challenging hike that rewards climbers with panoramic views from the summit, especially beautiful during the fall.

Airports

How to reach Hashimoto by plane.

Haneda Airport

Located approximately 50 km from Hashimoto, Haneda is one of Tokyo's two main airports, providing numerous domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Hashimoto is quite walkable, especially in its downtown area where shops, restaurants, and attractions are concentrated. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and pedestrian crossings are available. However, some attractions may be spread out, making public transport or cycling a practical option for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Families

Many young families reside in Hashimoto, attracted by the peaceful environment and good schools.

Elderly Residents

Hashimoto has a significant elderly population, often seen enjoying the parks and community activities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is widely popular in Japan, and local teams often have games that draw enthusiastic crowds.

Soccer

Soccer is also popular, with several local clubs and schools offering competitive matches throughout the year.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Hashimoto is generally manageable, with occasional congestion during peak hours. Public transportation includes trains and buses, with the Odakyu Line providing easy access to larger cities. The city is bicycle-friendly, making cycling a convenient option for getting around.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Hashimoto.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many places offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check with staff for specific ingredients.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are limited, but rice and vegetable-based dishes are widely available.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Japan has an excellent healthcare system, and Hashimoto is no exception. There are several clinics and hospitals in the area, providing both emergency and routine medical care. Foreign visitors should ensure they have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, as healthcare can be expensive without coverage.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide