Things To Do
in Hiratsuka
Hiratsuka is a city located in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan, known for its beautiful beaches along Sagami Bay. The city is also famous for hosting the annual Hiratsuka Tanabata Festival, featuring vibrant decorations and traditional performances. Hiratsuka is a popular destination for seafood lovers, offering a variety of fresh seafood dishes in local restaurants.
With its mild climate and picturesque surroundings, Hiratsuka is a charming coastal city that attracts visitors seeking relaxation and cultural experiences.
- "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 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $8 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at Hiratsuka Beach, enjoying the sunrise and fresh ocean breeze. Stroll along the shore and take in the scenic views.
Visit the Hiratsuka Museum of Art to explore local artworks and exhibits. Grab lunch at a nearby café featuring local cuisine.
Dine at a traditional izakaya and experience the cozy atmosphere. Take a leisurely evening walk through the city center to absorb the nightlife.
Head to Chigasaki Coastal Park for a refreshing morning hike. Breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Have a picnic in the park and enjoy local snacks. After lunch, rent a bike and explore the nearby coastline.
Watch the sunset from the beach as the sky turns vibrant. Conclude the day at a seaside restaurant with fresh seafood.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal scenery and proximity to beaches
- Rich cultural heritage with historical sites and local festivals
- Access to various outdoor recreational activities such as hiking and cycling
- Good transportation links to Tokyo and other major cities
- Relaxed atmosphere with a lower cost of living compared to larger urban areas
- Limited job opportunities in specialized fields
- Potential for overcrowding during peak tourist seasons
- Some public amenities and services may not be as extensive as in larger cities
- Natural disaster risks, including earthquakes and typhoons
- Language barrier for non-Japanese speakers might pose a challenge
Best Activities in Hiratsuka
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic trails and lush landscapes of Tanzawa Mountains for a rejuvenating outdoor experience.
Indulge in sunbathing, swimming, and beachside picnics at the beautiful Chigasaki Beach for a peaceful escape by the sea.
Cycle along the picturesque Sagami Bay, taking in the coastal views and enjoying the refreshing sea breeze on a leisurely ride.
Tours
Uncover the best of Hiratsuka with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Hiratsuka
Visit one of these nice places.
Enoshima Island offers stunning views of the coast, Enoshima Shrine, and Mount Fuji in the distance. It's a popular spot for sunset photography and has various observation decks for scenic views.
Hasedera Temple is known for its beautiful gardens, seasonal flowers, and a panoramic view of the surrounding area, including Sagami Bay. The temple also has a viewpoint overlooking the beach.
Samuel Cocking Garden, located on Enoshima Island, provides picturesque botanical gardens and a viewpoint that offers sweeping views of the coastline and the sea.
Food in Hiratsuka
Hiratsuka Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A bowl of rice topped with small sardines, a local delicacy in Hiratsuka. Can be found at traditional seafood restaurants such as Uminoie.
Must-Try!
A type of cured surimi, or processed seafood product, often served steamed or grilled. Visit local shops like Kamaboko no Kama-chan for an authentic taste.
Grilled eel, a regional specialty. Try it at renowned restaurants like Unagi Miyagawa for an unforgettable meal.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Hiratsuka better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
An excellent place to explore a wide variety of local street foods, fresh produce, and unique snacks. Try delicious takoyaki and yakitori from the street stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Hiratsuka, it is important to respect personal space and avoid physical contact unless it is initiated by the other person.
Using polite language and honorifics, such as 'san' when addressing someone, is essential in Hiratsuka to show respect.
It is customary in Hiratsuka to remove shoes before entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments as a sign of respect and cleanliness.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Hiratsuka with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Hiratsuka
Ensure a smooth experience
In Hiratsuka, Japan, tipping is not a common practice. It is generally not expected or required in restaurants, hotels, taxis, or other service industries. Quality service is expected and appreciated, but tips are not customary.
Payment in Hiratsuka, Japan is predominantly cash-based, although credit cards are becoming more widely accepted, especially in larger establishments and hotels. It is advisable to carry sufficient cash for smaller transactions and in more traditional or rural areas where credit card acceptance may be limited.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Hiratsuka is in spring (March to May) when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom and the weather is mild. Expect to see beautiful cherry blossoms and enjoy outdoor festivals and events.
Summer (June to August) in Hiratsuka is hot and humid. Expect crowded beaches and traditional summer festivals like Tanabata and fireworks displays.
Autumn (September to November) brings cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage. It's a great time for hiking and enjoying outdoor activities.
Winter (December to February) in Hiratsuka is cold, but you can enjoy winter illuminations and hot springs to stay warm and relax.
Hiratsuka at Night
Hiking in Hiratsuka
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic park with various hiking trails offering stunning views of the Sagami Bay and Mount Fuji, featuring areas for picnicking and sightseeing.
Famous for its hot springs and views of Mount Fuji, Hakone offers numerous hiking routes, including trails that connect to historical sites and natural wonders.
A mountainous area with various trails, known for its beautiful forest scenery and a peaceful environment, ideal for hiking enthusiasts.
Kamakura has several scenic trails that connect various temples and shrines while providing breathtaking views of the coastal landscape.
A unique hiking experience that combines nature with culture, leading through beautiful parks and gardens around the Sōji-ji Temple in Yokohama.
Aiports
How to reach Hiratsuka by plane.
Located in Tokyo, approximately 70 km from Hiratsuka, serving as one of the primary airports for domestic and international flights.
Situated about 100 km from Hiratsuka in Chiba Prefecture, this airport primarily handles international flights and is a major hub for international travel.
Located near Osaka, approximately 400 km from Hiratsuka, this is a major international airport serving the Kansai region and connects many international destinations.
About 220 km from Hiratsuka, located in Aichi Prefecture, it serves the Nagoya area with both domestic and international flights.
Also known as Osaka International Airport, located about 400 km from Hiratsuka, it mainly operates domestic flights but has some international services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The primary demographic group, comprising the majority of the population, consisting of individuals who are native Japanese or have Japanese nationality.
This includes non-Japanese residents, such as long-term expatriates and those on work or student visas, representing a growing segment of the community.
Individuals aged 65 and older, reflecting Japan's overall aging population trend, with a significant percentage of Hiratsuka's residents falling into this category.
Comprising children and teenagers, this group represents the younger demographic and includes students from local schools.
Individuals typically aged between 40 and 64 years, which is a large portion of the working-age population.
This includes children under the age of 15, making up a smaller demographic compared to the elderly and adult populations.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is one of the most popular sports in Hiratsuka, with several local clubs and youth leagues encouraging participation at various levels.
Baseball holds a special place in Japanese culture, and Hiratsuka is no exception, featuring local teams and widespread popularity among schools.
Basketball has gained popularity in Hiratsuka, with schools and community centers promoting the sport through various leagues and events.
Running events and athletics are popular in Hiratsuka, with various marathons and track and field events taking place throughout the year.
Table tennis is commonly played in schools and community centers, with clubs forming around the sport due to its accessibility and competitive nature.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hiratsuka.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Japanese cuisine often features seafood and meat, many restaurants in Hiratsuka now offer vegetarian and vegan dishes. Look for places like Cafe de Riz and communicate your dietary preferences to ensure a satisfying dining experience.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities may find it helpful to seek out sashimi, sushi, and rice-based dishes, which can often be gluten-free. Communicate your dietary needs to restaurant staff for a tailored dining experience.