Things To Do
in Nakayama

Nakayama, Japan is a charming, small town located in the Kanagawa Prefecture, just a short train ride from Tokyo. Known for its serene temples and lush natural surroundings, it is a perfect getaway for those seeking tranquility and cultural experiences. The town is rich in history, featuring traditional architecture and beautiful gardens.

With a blend of modern amenities and historical charm, Nakayama is an ideal destination for both relaxation and exploration.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Natural Beauty
morning
:

Start your day at Nakayama's famous hiking trails, such as the nearby Takanawa Mountain, where you can enjoy stunning views and lush greenery.

afternoon
:

Visit the Nakayama-dera Temple, a serene Buddhist temple known for its beautiful gardens and peaceful atmosphere.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local izakaya, where you can taste a variety of Japanese dishes and unwind with a traditional atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Explore the local art scene by visiting the Nakayama Art Museum, which features contemporary and traditional Japanese artwork.

afternoon
:

Stroll through the local market and shop for handmade crafts and souvenirs while sampling local snacks.

evening
:

End the day with a visit to a traditional onsen (hot spring) to relax and rejuvenate.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi meal$15
Coffee at a cafe$4
🍜Ramen bowl$10
🚍Public transport ticket$2
🏨Mid-range hotel per night$80

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery and hiking opportunities
  • Rich cultural experiences and historical sites
  • Peaceful atmosphere away from city hustle
  • Limited nightlife options within the town
  • Some language barriers for non-Japanese speakers
  • Public transport may require transfers to reach major cities
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me
  • "いくらですか?" - How much is this?
  • "おいしい" - Delicious

Places to Visit in Nakayama

Visit one of these nice places.

Nakayama-dera Temple

Capture the stunning architecture and serene gardens of this historic temple, especially during cherry blossom season.

Takanawa Mountain

A breathtaking viewpoint for panoramic shots of the surrounding landscape and the city skyline.

Local Market

Vibrant colors and lively scenes make this market a perfect spot for candid street photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Nakayama

Nakayama offers a delightful culinary experience with its local dishes that reflect the rich traditions of Japanese cuisine.

Nakayama Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Soba Noodles

A local specialty, these buckwheat noodles can be enjoyed cold with dipping sauce or hot in a savory broth.

Must-Try!

Katsu Curry

A comforting dish of breaded pork cutlet served with rich curry sauce and rice, perfect for dinner.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Nakayama Street Market

A bustling market on weekends where you can find fresh produce, local delicacies, and street food stalls.

Climate Guide

Weather

Nakayama experiences a temperate climate, with four distinct seasons. Spring (March to May) is mild, featuring cherry blossoms. Summer (June to August) can be hot and humid, with temperatures reaching the high 30s°C (around 90°F) and occasional rain. Autumn (September to November) is characterized by cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage. Winter (December to February) is cold, with temperatures often dropping below 0°C (32°F), and occasional snowfall.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Always bow when greeting someone and use polite language, especially when speaking to elders.

Shoes Off Indoors

Remove shoes when entering homes and certain traditional establishments such as ryokan (inns) and temples.

Quietness in Public Spaces

Maintain a low volume in public transport and public spaces to respect others.

Safety Guide

Safety

Nakayama is considered a very safe destination, with low crime rates. Standard precautions such as keeping belongings secure and being aware of surroundings are advisable. Emergency services can be reached by calling 119 for fire or medical emergencies and 110 for police assistance.

Tipping in Nakayama

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan and may even be considered rude. Instead, exceptional service is expected.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are increasingly used. Ensure to have yen for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming cherry blossoms, making it a beautiful time for outdoor activities and temple visits.

Summer

Warm and humid, summer is great for hiking, but be prepared for occasional rain showers.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage create picturesque landscapes, perfect for photography.

Winter

Cold but often clear, winter is ideal for enjoying hot springs and winter festivals in the area.

Nightlife Guide

Nakayama at Night

Nakayama offers a laid-back nightlife scene primarily centered around izakayas and small bars. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, with many locals enjoying after-work drinks. Live music can occasionally be found in certain venues, providing a cozy vibe for late-night conversations. For those seeking a more lively scene, nearby cities like Yokohama offer more extensive nightlife options.

Hiking in Nakayama

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Takanawa Mountain Trail

A popular hiking trail with varying difficulty levels, offering scenic views of the surrounding landscape.

Yokohama Nature Trail

Located a short train ride away, this trail provides a longer hike through diverse ecosystems and views of Yokohama Bay.

Airports

How to reach Nakayama by plane.

Tokyo Haneda Airport

Located about 30 km from Nakayama, Haneda Airport is one of the two main international airports serving Tokyo, offering numerous domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Nakayama is a walkable town with pedestrian-friendly streets and paths, making it easy to explore on foot. Key attractions, such as temples, parks, and local markets, are within walking distance of each other. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and there are various scenic routes for leisurely strolls.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Elderly Population

A significant portion of Nakayama's residents are elderly, reflecting the broader demographic trend in Japan.

Young Families

Young families are drawn to Nakayama's peaceful environment and good schools, making it a popular choice for raising children.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a favorite pastime in Japan, with local teams attracting enthusiastic fans during the season.

Soccer

Soccer has a growing popularity in Japan, with many youth leagues and professional clubs competing in national tournaments.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Nakayama is generally light, with roads well-maintained and easy to navigate. Public transportation includes buses and trains, with connections to nearby cities and attractions. Trains are a popular mode of transport, providing efficient access to major destinations in the region.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Nakayama.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian versions of traditional dishes, such as vegetable tempura and soba.

Gluten-Free Options

While gluten-free options may be limited, rice-based dishes and fresh sashimi are safe choices.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Nakayama are accessible, with local clinics and hospitals available for residents and visitors. Emergency medical services can be reached quickly, and most hospitals have English-speaking staff. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses while traveling in Japan.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide