Things To Do
in Hiratsuka
Hiratsuka sits on the Sagami Bay coast in Kanagawa Prefecture, offering easy access to the Shonan coastline and nearby Kamakura. The city blends a maritime vibe with a compact urban center, featuring seafood-forward dining, pleasant parks, and a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. It serves as a convenient gateway for day trips to Kamakura, Enoshima, and the wider Kanagawa region.
Expect scenic coastal views, convenient rail links, and welcoming neighborhoods that feel more laid-back than Tokyo.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll along Hiratsuka Beach, known for its stunning views of the Sagami Bay. Enjoy the fresh sea air and watch the waves crashing against the shore while soaking up the morning sun. Stop by a local café for a warm coffee and a traditional Japanese pastry to fuel your adventures for the day.
Visit the Hiratsuka Museum of Art, where you can immerse yourself in both contemporary and classical Japanese art. Afterward, explore the nearby Hiratsuka City Park, perfect for a relaxing afternoon picnic under the cherry blossom trees if you're visiting in spring. Don't forget to check out the various craft shops and food stalls in the area for some unique souvenirs.
As the sun sets, head to the beach once again to catch breathtaking views of the horizon painting the sky. Enjoy a delicious seafood dinner at one of the local restaurants, offering fresh catches from Sagami Bay. Conclude your evening with a leisurely walk along the shore, captivated by the gentle evening breeze.
Begin your day with a visit to the historic Hiratsuka Shrine, where you can participate in a traditional Shinto ritual or simply admire the beautiful architecture of the shrine. The peaceful atmosphere sets a serene tone for the day's activities, allowing for reflection and tranquility. After exploring the shrine grounds, enjoy a breakfast of local specialties at a nearby eatery.
Explore the rich history of Hiratsuka at the Hiratsuka City History Museum, where exhibits showcase the city's evolution over the years. Engage with the interactive displays that tell the stories of local heroes and historical events. Afterward, take a leisurely walk through the town to discover quaint neighborhoods and local artisan shops.
As the day winds down, indulge in a traditional kaiseki dinner, where you can savor multiple beautifully presented dishes made with seasonal ingredients. Choose a restaurant that offers a view of the city’s skyline as you enjoy your meal. Wrap up your evening with a visit to a local izakaya for a few drinks and warm hospitality from the locals.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍜Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🛏️One-night hotel stay (mid-range) | $90-180 |
| 🛒Grocery trip for 2-3 days | $40-70 |
| 🚆1-day transit pass | $8-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Coastal access and seafood-forward cuisine
- Compact city with easy day trips to Kamakura and Enoshima
- Pleasant year-round climate and scenic walking paths
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Crowded during summer beach season
- Some services can be cash-centric; not everyone speaks English
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Arigatou gozaimasu" - Thank you very much
- "Onegaishimasu" - Please / I would like
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Koko wa doko desu ka?" - Where is this place?
- "Tanoshii desu" - Nice to meet you
Places to Visit in Hiratsuka
Visit one of these nice places.
Long sandy stretch with expansive sea views, perfect for sunrise or sunset photography.
Wooden promenades and open sea horizons ideal for wide-angle coastal shots and candid life by the shore.
Urban scenes with neon reflections and pedestrian activity around the station in the evening.
Traditional architecture and seasonal decorations offer rich cultural compositions.
Food in Hiratsuka
Hiratsuka Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A bowl of rice topped with fresh shirasu (whitebait) harvested from Sagami Bay; best enjoyed at seaside eateries and markets.
Must-Try!
A straightforward, flavorful grilled mackerel dish often served with rice, miso soup, and pickles.
Tempura featuring seasonal seafood and local produce from the coast; try it at seaside restaurants for a light, crispy bite.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A market offering fresh seafood, produce, and street bites; look for grilled shirasu and seasonal snacks.
Casual stalls along the coastal promenade offering bite-sized snacks, tempura, and quick noodle dishes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be mindful of noise in public transit, remove shoes where required, bow as a polite gesture, and handle chopsticks respectfully.
Safety
Tipping in Hiratsuka
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan; excellent service is expected as part of the price. A sincere thank-you can be appreciated.
Cash is widely accepted; credit cards are common in urban shops and restaurants. IC cards (Suica, Pasmo) are convenient for trains and many shops; some small venues may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming plum and cherry blossoms; great for outdoor strolls along the coast and parks.
Warm to hot and humid; peak beach season with many outdoor events and longer daylight hours; stay hydrated and protect from the sun.
Comfortable temperatures and colorful foliage in parks and hillside areas; ideal for hikes and scenic drives.
Cool but generally mild for a coastal city; occasional chilly days; fewer crowds and comfortable for city sightseeing.
Hiratsuka at Night
Hiking in Hiratsuka
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forested ascent with a shrine at the summit; offers panoramic views of Sagami Bay and the Kanagawa plain.
Coastal hiking segment offering sea views and gentle to moderate climbs; connects with other shoreline towns.
Airports
How to reach Hiratsuka by plane.
Approximately 1 hour by rail to Hiratsuka; efficient domestic and international connections.
Around 1.5-2 hours by rail; major international gateway with direct trains to Kanagawa via the JR network.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly Japanese nationals; an aging population with a steady stream of commuters to larger urban areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular along the Shonan coast; beginner-friendly beaches and rental shops.
Common in school fields and local leagues; matches can be watched at public parks.
Several courses within a short drive of Hiratsuka.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hiratsuka.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Options exist in cafes and some restaurants; look for vegetable tempura, tofu dishes, soba, and salads. Communicate clearly about dashi or fish-based broths and request vegetarian preparations when ordering.