Things To Do
in Sagamihara

Sagamihara, located in Kanagawa Prefecture, is known for its blend of urban and natural landscapes. Nestled near the foothills of the Tanzawa mountains, it offers both modern amenities and outdoor experiences. The city is a hub for both military presence and burgeoning residential communities, making it a unique destination.

Visitors can enjoy local parks, cultural sites, and the proximity to Tokyo and Yokohama.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Kenritsu Sagamihara Park, where you can enjoy beautiful gardens and walking trails.

afternoon
:

Head to the Sagamihara City Museum to learn about the local history and culture.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with dinner at a local izakaya, trying different types of Japanese appetizers.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation
morning
:

Visit the Tanzawa-Oyama Quasi-National Park for a morning hike, immersing yourself in the scenic nature.

afternoon
:

Take a break and relax at a local onsen (hot spring) to rejuvenate after your hike.

evening
:

Explore the nightlife in the city with a visit to a karaoke bar or a local pub.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of Ramen$8
🍣Sushi Roll$10
Coffee$4
🍺Draft Beer$6
🍱Bento Box$12

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Proximity to nature and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly and welcoming locals.
  • Limited English signage in some areas.
  • Public transport can be confusing for newcomers.
  • Fewer international dining options compared to major cities.
  • "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/Sorry
  • "トイレはどこですか?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "おいしいです" - Delicious

Places to Visit in Sagamihara

Visit one of these nice places.

Sagamihara Park

A picturesque park featuring seasonal flowers and a serene lake, perfect for capturing nature shots.

Tanzawa Mountains

Stunning mountain views provide a dramatic backdrop for landscape photography.

Sagamihara City Museum

An architectural gem that showcases local history and offers interesting angles for urban photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Sagamihara

Sagamihara offers a delightful culinary journey with a variety of local dishes and flavors waiting to be explored.

Sagamihara Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Soba

Buckwheat noodles served hot or cold, often accompanied by dipping sauce and tempura.

Must-Try!

Katsu Curry

A hearty dish of breaded pork cutlet served with a rich and flavorful curry sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Sagamihara Food Market

A vibrant market offering fresh produce, local specialties, and street food snacks.

Tamago-yaki Stalls

Street vendors serving freshly made Japanese omelets, a must-try when visiting.

Climate Guide

Weather

Sagamihara experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures averaging around 30°C (86°F). Winters are mild, with temperatures ranging from 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F) and occasional snowfall. The rainy season occurs in June and July, bringing significant rainfall.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Polite Greetings

Bowing when greeting someone is customary; it's a sign of respect.

Shoes Off Indoors

Always remove your shoes when entering someone's home or certain traditional accommodations.

Quiet Public Spaces

Maintain a quiet demeanor in public transport and public places to respect others.

Safety Guide

Safety

Sagamihara is generally very safe, with low crime rates. However, it's always wise to take standard precautions, such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Emergency services are efficient and readily available.

Tipping in Sagamihara

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is not customary in Japan; excellent service is expected without additional gratuity.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are increasingly common; check with individual establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Cherry blossoms bloom, making parks particularly beautiful. Ideal for picnics and outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm and humid weather; great for hiking but be prepared for sudden rain showers.

Autumn

The foliage turns vibrant colors, perfect for photography and outdoor exploration.

Winter

Mild winters with occasional snow; great for enjoying onsen and exploring winter scenery.

Nightlife Guide

Sagamihara at Night

Sagamihara's nightlife is vibrant yet relaxed, with numerous izakayas, karaoke bars, and pubs. The atmosphere is friendly, making it easy to socialize with locals and other travelers. Many establishments stay open late, offering a variety of entertainment options, from live music to themed bars.

Hiking in Sagamihara

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Tanzawa Mountain Trail

A popular hiking trail that offers various routes with stunning views and lush landscapes, suitable for all hiking levels.

Mount Oyama Trail

A scenic hike that leads to the summit of Mount Oyama, known for its breathtaking panoramic views and cultural significance.

Airports

How to reach Sagamihara by plane.

Tokyo Haneda Airport

Located about 50 km from Sagamihara, Haneda is one of the main airports serving Tokyo, providing numerous domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Sagamihara is moderately walkable, with well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian crossings. While some areas are easily navigable on foot, others may require public transport to reach key attractions. The city is designed with parks and pedestrian-friendly zones, enhancing the walking experience.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Military Personnel

Due to the presence of U.S. military bases, a significant number of military personnel and their families reside in Sagamihara.

Local Residents

A diverse group of Japanese locals, including families, young professionals, and retirees, contributing to the city's vibrant community.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a favorite pastime in Japan, with many local teams and amateur leagues actively participating in the sport.

Soccer

Soccer has gained immense popularity, with local leagues and youth programs fostering talent in the region.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Sagamihara can be busy during peak hours, particularly on major roads. Public transportation options include trains and buses, which are reliable and efficient, providing easy access to other cities. The city is also bicycle-friendly, with designated paths for cyclists.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Sagamihara.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it's good to check ingredients as fish-based sauces are common.

Gluten-Free

Options are limited, but soba noodles made from 100% buckwheat can be gluten-free; confirm with the chef.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Sagamihara is accessible, with several hospitals and clinics offering quality medical services. Emergency services are prompt, and most staff can communicate in basic English. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers healthcare expenses.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide