Things To Do
in Nakayama
Nakayama is a picturesque town located in the Kanagawa Prefecture of Japan. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, with lush greenery, peaceful rivers, and majestic mountains surrounding the area. The town is also rich in cultural heritage, with traditional temples and shrines offering a glimpse into Japan's history.
Nakayama is a popular destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts seeking a tranquil escape from city life.
- "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 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Nakayama Shrine, known for its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful architecture. Enjoy a morning stroll through the surrounding gardens to soak in the natural beauty.
Try local delicacies at a nearby restaurant, featuring specialties like yakitori and sushi. After lunch, explore the quaint shops and boutiques selling handmade crafts and traditional goods.
Conclude your day with a sunset view at the Nakayama Observatory. The panoramic vistas of the city are breathtaking and provide a perfect backdrop for some stunning photographs.
Begin with a fresh hike at the Yamato Green Park, embracing the fresh air and beautiful scenery. The park's trails are perfect for both casual walks and more invigorating hikes.
After your hike, pack a picnic to enjoy in one of the scenic spots within the park. Spend some time observing local wildlife and relaxing in nature.
Return to town and indulge in a hot springs experience at a local onsen. The soothing waters will help you unwind after an active day in nature.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, including mountains and forests.
- Rich cultural heritage with historical sites and traditions.
- High-quality local cuisine, especially seafood and seasonal dishes.
- Community-focused atmosphere with a friendly populace.
- Proximity to urban centers like Kobe and Osaka for additional amenities.
- Limited job opportunities in certain industries.
- Public transportation may not be as frequent as in larger cities.
- Some areas can be affected by natural disasters, like earthquakes.
- Fewer entertainment and shopping options compared to larger urban areas.
- Seasonal weather extremes might not be favorable for everyone.
Best Activities in Nakayama
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Experience breathtaking views and lush wilderness by hiking the trails of the Nakayama Mountains. Suitable for all levels, with various routes to explore.
Enjoy a scenic bike ride around Lake Nakayama. The path is well-maintained and offers beautiful vistas, perfect for casual cyclists and families.
Visit during spring to capture stunning photographs of the cherry blossoms in this picturesque park. A great spot for picnics and serene walks.
Set up camp at the Nakayama Campsite, which offers facilities for a perfect family getaway, including fishing spots and hiking trails.
Try your hand at fishing in the crystal-clear waters of Nakayama River, which is known for its abundant fish and peaceful surroundings.
Explore the Nakayama Wetlands, where you can observe diverse bird species in their natural habitat. A delight for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
Places to Visit in Nakayama
Visit one of these nice places.
A historic temple with beautiful architecture and lush surroundings, offering stunning views of the nearby landscape, particularly during cherry blossom season.
A scenic park featuring walking trails, gardens, and viewpoints that overlook the city and surrounding nature, ideal for capturing panoramic photos.
This park features tranquil lakes and diverse wildlife, providing excellent spots for nature photography, particularly at sunrise and sunset.
A nearby mountain that offers hiking trails leading to breathtaking summit views, perfect for experiencing the natural beauty of the region.
A community park that showcases seasonal flowers and art installations, creating unique backdrops for photography throughout the year.
Food in Nakayama
Nakayama Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sample the famous buckwheat noodles, served hot or cold, at Yamamoto Soba Shop, known for its handmade noodles and flavorful dipping sauces.
Must-Try!
Indulge in grilled eel served over rice, a local favorite available at Unatomi, a charming restaurant known for its tender and savory eel dishes.
Experience the delicate and delicious hamo dishes at Kitashinchi Hamakakou, a renowned restaurant specializing in this seasonal delicacy.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Start your day with a visit to this vibrant market offering an array of fresh produce, local snacks, and traditional Japanese street food delights like yakisoba and takoyaki.
Explore the narrow lanes of this food alley, dotted with stalls serving up an assortment of grilled seafood, tempura, and other regional specialties, creating an authentic street food experience.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Nakayama, as well as throughout Japan, bowing is a common and respectful way to greet someone. The depth of the bow can vary depending on the situation; a slight bow is used for casual greetings, while a deeper bow may be used to express greater respect.
It is customary to remove your shoes when entering someone’s home or certain traditional establishments. Make sure to look for a 'genkan' (entrance space) where shoes should be left, and use provided slippers if available.
Japanese language places a strong emphasis on respect and hierarchy. Use appropriate honorifics when addressing others, such as '-san' after names. This shows respect and acknowledges the person’s status or age.
Safety
Tipping in Nakayama
Ensure a smooth experience
In Nakayama, as in most parts of Japan, tipping is not a common practice and can even be considered rude. Instead, excellent service is considered standard. Restaurant bills often include a service charge, and it is customary to show appreciation through verbal thanks rather than monetary rewards.
Payments in Nakayama are typically made using cash, though credit cards are becoming increasingly accepted, especially in larger establishments. Japanese yen is the standard currency. It is common practice to place cash in a designated tray instead of handing it directly to the cashier, and many places offer payment apps for convenience.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring in Nakayama, typically from March to May, is marked by mild temperatures and beautiful cherry blossoms. The weather is pleasant, making it a great time for outdoor activities and enjoying the natural scenery.
Summer runs from June to August, bringing warm temperatures and higher humidity. This season is ideal for festivals and events. However, be prepared for occasional rain as the monsoon season approaches in July.
Autumn, from September to November, offers stunning fall foliage. The temperature cools down, providing a comfortable climate for hiking and sightseeing. Expect vibrant colors in the landscape, especially in late October.
Winter spans December to February, with cold temperatures and occasional snowfall. While it can be chilly, this season provides a unique experience with serene landscapes, winter sports opportunities, and hot springs.
Nakayama at Night
Hiking in Nakayama
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination near Nakayama, Mount Takiyama offers stunning views and well-marked trails suitable for various skill levels.
Located close to Nakayama, Shiroyama Park features a gentle hiking trail with beautiful scenery, ideal for families and casual hikers.
A scenic park with hiking paths that follow the Tamagawa River, offering a peaceful environment and opportunities for bird watching.
This park features several hiking trails and natural landscapes, making it a great spot for a day hike with family and friends.
A bit further from Nakayama, Hakkai Mountain is well-known for its challenging trails and picturesque landscapes, perfect for experienced hikers.
Aiports
How to reach Nakayama by plane.
Located approximately 77 km from Nakayama, this is the largest airport serving Hokkaido, providing international and domestic flights.
About 175 km from Nakayama, Kushiro Airport offers limited international flights along with a range of domestic services.
Located roughly 200 km from Nakayama, this airport supports international flights primarily to and from neighboring countries and multiple domestic routes.
Approximately 270 km from Nakayama, this airport mainly handles domestic flights, with some international connections.
Located about 120 km from Nakayama, Asahikawa Airport provides a few international flights alongside several domestic routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Nakayama, consisting of native Japanese individuals.
A minority group in Nakayama, consisting of individuals of Korean descent.
Another minority group, composed of individuals with Chinese heritage.
A small population of expatriates and foreign workers from various countries.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Keiba is one of the most popular sports in Nakayama, particularly with the presence of the Nakayama Racecourse, which hosts several important horse racing events throughout the year.
Baseball is widely popular in Nakayama, with many local teams and schools participating in various levels of competition. The sport has a strong following in the region.
Soccer has been growing in popularity, with local clubs and youth teams fostering interest among the community and contributing to Japan's national soccer culture.
Tennis is a favorite recreational sport in Nakayama, with various clubs and facilities available for both casual players and serious competitors.
Various forms of martial arts, including Judo and Karate, are practiced in Nakayama, supported by local dojos and community centers promoting physical fitness and self-discipline.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nakayama.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Nakayama offer vegetable-centric dishes like tempura vegetables, tofu-based meals, and fresh salads. Look for establishments specializing in Shojin Ryori (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine) for an authentic experience.
While traditional Japanese cuisine heavily features rice, be cautious of soy sauce and other wheat-based ingredients. Opt for gluten-free soba noodles and seek out restaurants that are familiar with accommodating gluten-free dietary needs.