Things To Do
in Shōwa

Shōwa is a charming town located in the Kanagawa Prefecture of Japan, known for its picturesque landscapes and rich cultural heritage. It offers a blend of traditional Japanese architecture and modern amenities, making it a unique destination for travelers. Visitors can explore serene parks, historical sites, and local shops that reflect the town's history and community spirit.

With its close proximity to larger cities, Shōwa provides a peaceful escape while still being accessible to urban attractions.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Shōwa's Heritage
morning
:

Start your day at the Shōwa Historical Museum to learn about the town's past. Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast at a nearby café.

afternoon
:

Visit the beautiful Shōwa Park, where you can stroll through gardens and enjoy a picnic lunch. Explore local artisan shops that showcase handmade crafts.

evening
:

Dine at a local izakaya where you can try various small plates. End your evening with a relaxing walk along the riverbank.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike in the nearby hills, taking in stunning views of the surrounding area. Visit a local onsen (hot spring) for a rejuvenating experience.

afternoon
:

After lunch, participate in a tea ceremony at a local tea house, immersing yourself in Japanese culture. Explore the local market for fresh produce and artisanal goods.

evening
:

Enjoy a quiet dinner at a restaurant specializing in seasonal cuisine. Spend the night at a ryokan (traditional inn) for an authentic Japanese experience.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi meal$15
Coffee$4
🍜Ramen bowl$10
🚌Bus ticket$2
🏨Budget hotel per night$70

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery and peaceful environment.
  • Rich cultural experiences and historical sites.
  • Friendly locals and low crime rates.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation may be less frequent.
  • Language barrier for non-Japanese speakers.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "はい" - Yes
  • "いいえ" - No

Places to Visit in Shōwa

Visit one of these nice places.

Shōwa Park

A scenic park with beautiful cherry blossoms in spring, perfect for capturing nature's beauty.

Historic Temples

The ancient temples around Shōwa provide stunning backdrops for photography, with intricate architecture and serene gardens.

Riverbank Trails

The trails along the river offer picturesque views, especially during sunset.

Culinary Guide

Food in Shōwa

Shōwa boasts a delightful culinary scene that reflects both traditional and modern Japanese cuisine, with local specialties that are a must-try for visitors.

Shōwa Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Katsu Don

A rice bowl topped with a breaded pork cutlet and egg, served with a savory sauce.

Must-Try!

Soba Noodles

Buckwheat noodles served cold or hot, often accompanied by dipping sauces or in a broth.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Shōwa Street Market

A bustling market featuring fresh produce, local crafts, and street food stalls offering delicious snacks like takoyaki and yakitori.

Climate Guide

Weather

Shōwa experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid, with temperatures averaging 25-30°C (77-86°F). Winters are cold, with temperatures dropping to 0-5°C (32-41°F). Spring and autumn offer mild weather, ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Bowing

Bowing is a common form of greeting and showing respect in Japanese culture.

Shoes Off Indoors

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

Quiet Public Spaces

Maintain a quiet demeanor in public areas, particularly on public transport.

Safety Guide

Safety

Shōwa is generally a safe town with low crime rates. However, basic safety precautions should be followed, such as not leaving valuables unattended and being cautious when walking at night in less populated areas.

Tipping in Shōwa

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

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

Payment Methods

Credit cards are accepted in many places, but cash is preferred in smaller shops and restaurants.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather and beautiful cherry blossoms, ideal for outdoor activities and picnics.

Summer

Warm temperatures and humidity; perfect for exploring parks but stay hydrated.

Autumn

Cooler weather with stunning fall foliage, making it a great time for hiking and photography.

Winter

Cold temperatures; some attractions may close but the peaceful atmosphere offers a different charm.

Nightlife Guide

Shōwa at Night

Shōwa offers a relaxed nightlife scene with various izakayas, bars, and karaoke establishments. While not as vibrant as larger cities, you can enjoy a laid-back atmosphere with locals. Many places close by midnight, focusing on socializing rather than late-night partying.

Hiking in Shōwa

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Tanzawa-Oyama Quasi-National Park

Offers diverse trails ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes with breathtaking views.

Mount Hiru

A popular hiking destination with well-marked trails and stunning panoramas of the surrounding landscape.

Airports

How to reach Shōwa by plane.

Tokyo Haneda Airport

Approximately 45 km away, Haneda is the nearest major airport, offering domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Shōwa is highly walkable, with well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas. Most attractions are within walking distance, making it easy to explore the town on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many families live in Shōwa, drawn by its safe environment and community-oriented lifestyle.

Retirees

An increasing number of retirees choose Shōwa for its tranquility and access to nature.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a popular sport in Japan, with local teams and youth leagues actively participating.

Soccer

Soccer has gained popularity, with local clubs and community teams engaging in regional competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Shōwa is moderate, with main roads connecting to nearby towns. Public transportation includes buses and trains, providing easy access to surrounding areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Shōwa.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian-friendly dishes; be sure to ask about ingredients.

Gluten-Free

Soba noodles can be gluten-free, but check with the restaurant to ensure no cross-contamination.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Shōwa is accessible, with several clinics and hospitals available. Emergency services can be reached quickly, and many medical professionals speak basic English.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide