Things To Do
in Sagamihara
Sagamihara sits on the western edge of Tokyo, offering a comfortable blend of city life and nature within Kanagawa. The city features green parks, riverfront paths, and family-friendly neighborhoods, making it easy to explore on foot or by bike. It serves as a convenient base for day trips to Yokohama, Tokyo, and nearby mountains.
Visitors get a quieter, more affordable alternative to central Tokyo with reliable transport links.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Sagamihara City Museum, where you can delve into the local history through engaging exhibits. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the historic streets lined with traditional buildings that tell tales of the past. Don’t forget to stop by a local café for a traditional Japanese breakfast of tamagoyaki and miso soup.
In the afternoon, head to the nearby Yamato River for a relaxing boat ride that offers picturesque views of the surrounding landscape. After enjoying the peaceful waters, explore the vibrant local markets and sample fresh produce and artisanal goods. Conclude your afternoon with a visit to the famous Sagamihara Park, where you can unwind amidst beautiful cherry blossom trees.
As the sun sets, experience a delightful dinner at a locally renowned izakaya, where you can savor various small dishes paired with sake. After your meal, take a leisurely walk along the illuminated riverbanks, where locals gather to enjoy the evening breeze. Finally, end your day with a visit to a traditional onsen, soaking in the rejuvenating waters under the stars.
Begin your day early with a hike up the scenic Tanzawa Mountains, where you’ll be greeted by breathtaking views and lush greenery. Bring a packed breakfast to enjoy at one of the lookout points, surrounded by the sounds of nature. Along the trail, keep an eye out for local wildlife and unique flora that thrive in this mountainous region.
After your invigorating hike, visit the nearby Okunikkawa Falls, a stunning waterfall that provides a perfect backdrop for photos and relaxation. Enjoy a packed lunch at the foot of the falls, where the sound of cascading water enhances your meal. Spend some time exploring the surrounding area, perhaps taking a short nature walk to discover more hidden gems.
Return to Sagamihara and enjoy dinner at a restaurant specializing in local cuisine, where you can try dishes made with seasonal ingredients. Afterward, take a stroll through the city center, where you can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and maybe catch a local festival or event. Conclude your evening at a cozy tea house, sipping matcha while reflecting on your day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍱Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $30-60 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $70-150 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-5 |
| 🛒Monthly groceries for one | $250-350 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Efficient public transit and easy day trips to Tokyo or Yokohama
- Good balance of urban amenities and nature
- Family-friendly neighborhoods and green spaces
- Relatively affordable compared to central Tokyo
- Smaller nightlife scene compared to Tokyo
- Language barriers in smaller stores
- Less English signage in some areas
- Some areas require transit for longer connections
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
- "すみません" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "いくらですか？" - How much is this?
- "トイレはどこですか？" - Where is the restroom?
- "英語を話せますか？" - Do you speak English?
- "おすすめは何ですか？" - What do you recommend?
Places to Visit in Sagamihara
Visit one of these nice places.
Long riverside views with sunset reflections and boat activity on the water.
Modern station architecture and bustling platforms provide dynamic urban compositions.
Vibrant streets with colorful signage and local storefronts for street photography.
Food in Sagamihara
Sagamihara Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Hearty bowls from local ramen shops featuring pork-based broth and tender slices of chashu.
Must-Try!
Noodle dishes served in light dashi broth, often paired with tempura or simple toppings.
Crispy breaded pork cutlet served with shredded cabbage and rice.
Crispy fried chicken, commonly enjoyed as a quick bite with rice or in bento form.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A neighborhood market near central Sagamihara with fresh produce, street snacks, and seasonal goods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Stand in lines and wait your turn; avoid saving spots or cutting in.
Remove shoes in homes and some traditional establishments; wear clean footwear indoors as required.
Use polite language, bow slightly, and avoid loud conversations in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Sagamihara
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan; good service is expected to be included in the price. Expressions of thanks are appreciated.
Cash is widely accepted; credit cards are common in urban shops and larger restaurants; IC cards (Suica, PASMO) and mobile payments are increasingly popular.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and cherry blossoms along rivers and parks; ideal for walking and outdoor photos.
Hot and humid with typhoon risk; best to visit early mornings or late evenings and seek shade near water.
Pleasant weather and autumn foliage in parks and hills; perfect for hikes and scenic photography.
Cool to cold; frost and occasional light snowfall at higher elevations; indoor attractions are comfortable.
Sagamihara at Night
Hiking in Sagamihara
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular day hike with forest trails; accessible by train from Sagamihara to Takaosanguchi Station.
Scenic hikes and waterfalls just a short train ride away; excellent for longer day trips.
Airports
How to reach Sagamihara by plane.
About 60–90 minutes by train or car from central Sagamihara; wide range of domestic and international flights.
Approximately 90–120+ minutes away; serves many international routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Suburban neighborhoods with schools, parks, and family-friendly amenities.
Several universities and tech campuses nearby; many residents are in the 20s-40s range.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in schools and local clubs; community fields and leagues are common.
Popular sport with local teams and weekend matches in parks.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sagamihara.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist, but many dishes use dashi or meat-based broths; seek veggie-focused restaurants or ask for vegetarian preparations, and consider visiting shops offering tofu, vegetables, and rice.