Things To Do
in Sagamihara
Sagamihara is a city located in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan. It is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, including mountains, rivers, and lush greenery. The city has a rich history and is home to a number of historical sites and cultural attractions.
With a mix of urban convenience and natural beauty, Sagamihara offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition for visitors to explore.
- "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): $60 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $8 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $80
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a refreshing hike at the Tanzawa Mountains, enjoying the beautiful scenery. Bring your camera to capture the stunning views along the trails.
After lunch, visit the Sagamihara City Greenbelt for a leisurely walk or a picnic. The lush surroundings offer a tranquil escape from the urban hustle.
As the sun sets, unwind at a local izakaya to experience traditional Japanese cuisine. Savor a variety of dishes with a relaxing atmosphere.
Kick off your day at the Sagamihara Park, perfect for jogging or a relaxed stroll. The park is spacious and ideal for enjoying the fresh morning air.
Head to the Sagamihara Museum of Literature to explore the city's cultural heritage. The exhibits provide an engaging overview of local authors and literary history.
Wrap up your day by visiting a nearby shopping district for dinner. Enjoy shopping for unique souvenirs and sampling local street food.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, including nearby mountains and parks.
- Rich cultural heritage with several historical sites and temples.
- Proximity to Tokyo, making it a convenient place for commuters.
- Community-oriented atmosphere with local festivals and events.
- Variety of recreational activities available, such as hiking and cycling.
- Limited job opportunities in specialized fields compared to larger cities.
- Transportation options may be less frequent than in urban areas.
- Higher population density can lead to traffic congestion.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to metropolitan areas.
- Natural disasters, such as earthquakes, can be a concern in the region.
Best Activities in Sagamihara
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
A large park with various facilities for outdoor activities such as picnicking, walking, and sports.
Offers opportunities for water-based activities like boating, fishing, and lakeside relaxation, as well as hiking trails and open spaces for picnicking.
Features walking paths, a playground, and open spaces for outdoor games and recreation.
Tours
Uncover the best of Sagamihara with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Sagamihara
Visit one of these nice places.
A popular hiking spot with stunning views of the city and Mount Fuji on clear days.
Scenic lake offering beautiful views and opportunities for water activities and photography.
Gorgeous park with cherry blossoms in spring and panoramic views of the city.
Food in Sagamihara
Sagamihara Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A regional version of ramen characterized by its rich, soy sauce-based broth, chewy noodles, and various toppings. You can savor this iconic dish at Ramen Street, a popular area with numerous ramen shops near Sagamihara Station.
Must-Try!
A hot pot dish prepared with an assortment of fresh local vegetables and your choice of meat or seafood, simmered in a flavored broth right at your table. It's a must-try at traditional izakayas like Nabe-no-Hashidaya, known for its cozy atmosphere and authentic Yose-nabe.
A type of traditional Japanese candy, often shaped like a hammer and made from malt syrup. You can find these sweet treats at local markets and festivals, especially at Sagamiko Illumillion during the winter season.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Sagamihara better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market offers an impressive selection of fresh produce, local snacks, and street food stalls offering tantalizing options like takoyaki (octopus balls), yakitori (grilled skewered chicken), and taiyaki (fish-shaped cake filled with sweet or savory fillings).
Apart from thrilling attractions, this amusement park is also dotted with food stalls offering fusion street food featuring local and international flavors. Don't miss out on trying Genghis Khan BBQ, a popular grilled lamb dish in the region.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Sagamihara, it is customary to bow as a sign of respect when greeting someone, particularly when meeting someone for the first time or in a formal setting.
It is important to remove your shoes before entering a Japanese home or certain traditional establishments, such as ryokan (inns) and some restaurants. This is a sign of cleanliness and respect for the space.
Japanese people generally value personal space and tend to maintain a moderate distance during interactions. It is respectful to be mindful of this aspect of cultural norms when engaging with others in Sagamihara.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Sagamihara with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Sagamihara
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Japan, including in Sagamihara. It is generally not expected or required to tip in restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments.
In Sagamihara, as in the rest of Japan, cash is the most widely accepted form of payment. Credit and debit cards are also commonly accepted, especially in larger establishments. Mobile payment methods, such as Apple Pay and Google Pay, are gaining popularity as well.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Sagamihara.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for cherry blossoms, comfortable weather, and various festivals
Expect hot and humid weather, fireworks festivals, and outdoor events
Great for fall foliage, mild weather, and harvest festivals
Cold weather, illuminations, and winter sports in nearby regions
Sagamihara at Night
Hiking in Sagamihara
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful hiking spot featuring scenic views and a well-maintained trail. Ideal for both beginner and intermediate hikers.
A spacious park with various trails, making it perfect for leisurely hikes. It also offers picnic areas and beautiful landscapes.
Located a bit further from Sagamihara, this area offers challenging hikes and stunning views of mountains and valleys.
Known for its varied terrain and rich flora, this mountain provides a moderate hiking experience with rewarding vistas.
A tranquil park with hiking trails that connect to nature preserves, perfect for those looking for a peaceful hiking experience.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Sagamihara through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Sagamihara by plane.
Located approximately 66 km east of Sagamihara, Narita International Airport is one of Japan's primary international gateways, serving numerous international and domestic flights.
Situated about 50 km northeast of Sagamihara, Haneda Airport is closer to central Tokyo and is one of the busiest airports in Japan, offering a mix of domestic and international flights.
Located approximately 400 km west of Sagamihara, Kansai International Airport serves the Osaka area and is another major hub for international flights in Japan.
About 300 km southwest of Sagamihara, Chubu Centrair International Airport serves the Nagoya region and offers a variety of international flights.
Located around 1,600 km south of Sagamihara, Naha Airport is the main airport in Okinawa, providing connections to various international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Sagamihara, encompassing various regional and cultural backgrounds.
A significant minority group, with historical ties to Japan and a presence in various industries.
Another notable minority, reflecting the diverse immigrant population in the region.
A growing demographic, often involved in service and manufacturing sectors.
Including groups from Vietnam, India, and other countries, contributing to the multicultural environment.
A smaller group consisting of individuals from North America, Europe, and Australia, often involved in business or teaching.
The Soul of Sagamihara
Discover the essence of Sagamihara through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is extremely popular in Japan, and Sagamihara is home to numerous youth and amateur leagues as well as the professional team Kanagawa Prefectural Baseball Association.
Soccer has a large following in Sagamihara, with local clubs participating in various leagues and competitions, along with youth programs for aspiring players.
Basketball is popular at both the school and community levels, with many clubs and teams promoting the sport among youth in Sagamihara.
Various forms of martial arts are practiced widely, including judo, kendo, and karate, reflecting Japan's rich tradition in combative sports.
Volleyball enjoys popularity in schools and community centers, with regular tournaments and leagues organized for all age groups.
Running events and athletics programs are common, with many parks and facilities available for training and competition.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sagamihara.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Japanese cuisine often includes seafood and meat, many restaurants and cafes in Sagamihara are now offering vegetarian and vegan alternatives. Look for dishes like vegetable tempura, tofu-based meals, and vegan ramen.
Some restaurants and cafes in Sagamihara are accommodating to gluten-free dietary needs. Look for rice-based dishes, sushi without soy sauce, and gluten-free desserts at select establishments.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Sagamihara with these cultural adventures.
