Things To Do
in Yamato
Yamato is a city located in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan, known for its rich history and cultural heritage. The city is home to various historical landmarks such as the Kongo-ji Temple and the Ooka Echizen Samurai Residence. Yamato also boasts beautiful natural surroundings, including parks and gardens that are popular among locals and visitors alike.
With a mix of modern amenities and traditional charm, Yamato offers a unique blend of past and present for travelers 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): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $80
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Visit the Yamato Historical Museum to learn about the region's rich history. Enjoy a guided tour highlighting ancient artifacts and cultural displays.
Stroll through Nara Park and enjoy the tranquility and the famous free-roaming deer. Stop by local shops for traditional snacks and souvenirs.
Dine at a local izakaya to experience authentic Japanese cuisine. Unwind with a cup of sake while overlooking the beautifully lit park.
Begin at the Yamato Art Museum, exploring contemporary works by local artists. Engage in hands-on workshops to create your own art.
Visit the Yamato Tsumugi Silk Weaving Studio to see traditional silk-making techniques. Try weaving a small piece as a memorable keepsake.
Enjoy a peaceful evening at the Kōrakuen Garden, as the sun sets over the beautiful landscape. Have a picnic dinner while taking in the serene ambiance.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history, offering unique experiences.
- Beautiful natural scenery, including parks and gardens.
- Strong sense of community and safety.
- Modern amenities and infrastructure.
- Proximity to other major cities in Japan, enhancing accessibility.
- High cost of living compared to other regions.
- Limited English proficiency among locals may pose communication challenges for visitors.
- Can experience heavy rain during the monsoon season.
- Limited entertainment and nightlife options compared to larger urban centers.
- Space constraints due to densely populated areas.
Best Activities in Yamato
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
A large park with walking trails, picnic areas, and sports facilities, perfect for family outings and fitness activities.
A nearby island that offers stunning coastal views, hiking trails, and opportunities for water sports like kayaking and snorkeling.
A scenic park known for its cherry blossoms in spring, ideal for leisurely walks, jogging, and enjoying nature.
Explore the trails of Mt. Oyama, which offers breathtaking views and a chance to see wildlife while hiking to the summit.
Enjoy cycling along the riverside paths of the Sagami River, providing a peaceful setting for outdoor enthusiasts.
Tours
Uncover the best of Yamato with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Yamato
Visit one of these nice places.
This center features a spacious plaza and beautifully landscaped gardens, providing an excellent backdrop for photos with modern architecture and seasonal flowers.
A serene spot surrounded by lush greenery, Mikata Shrine offers picturesque views and traditional Japanese architecture, perfect for capturing the essence of local culture.
Yamato Park is known for its cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn, making it a prime location for scenic photography throughout the year.
This area is renowned for its stunning cherry blossom trees, making it one of the best places in Yamato for breathtaking springtime photos.
While primarily a zoo, Zoorasia offers unique landscapes and animal exhibits that allow for creative and memorable photography opportunities.
Located a bit outside Yamato but easily accessible, Chigasaki Beach provides stunning sunset views over the ocean, ideal for capturing dramatic seascapes.
Food in Yamato
Yamato Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A regional specialty, Yamato Ramen features a rich and flavorful broth, paired with chewy noodles and topped with tantalizing slices of chashu pork. Savor this iconic dish at Ramen Suzuran, a popular local ramen shop known for its authentic flavors.
Must-Try!
Hirune Udon is a beloved noodle dish in Yamato, characterized by thick, smooth udon noodles in a savory broth. Sample this comforting dish at Marukame Udon, a renowned udon eatery celebrated for its freshly made noodles and delectable broth.
Indulge in the delightful Sakura Mochi, a traditional sweet treat in Yamato. These delicate rice cakes are filled with sweet red bean paste and wrapped in pickled cherry blossom leaves. Experience the authentic flavor of Sakura Mochi at local confectionery shops such as Nakatanidou.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Yamato better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the bustling stalls and vibrant atmosphere of the Yamato Central Market, where you can immerse yourself in a plethora of fresh produce, local delicacies, and street food delights. Indulge in savory takoyaki, tantalizing yakitori, and other delectable street food offerings.
Embark on a culinary adventure along Himawari Street Food Alley, a lively hub of street food vendors offering an array of mouthwatering snacks and bites. Delight in savory okonomiyaki, crispy karaage, and other delectable street food delights.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Yamato, as well as throughout Japan, politeness is highly valued. Always use honorific language and bow slightly when greeting someone. Being courteous in interactions, such as thanking someone with a bow, is essential.
It is customary to remove shoes before entering someone’s home or traditional establishments. Be sure to follow this norm and use designated indoor slippers if provided.
Gift giving is an important practice in Japanese culture. When visiting someone’s home, it is considerate to bring a small gift, such as snacks or sweets, as a gesture of appreciation.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Yamato with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Yamato
Ensure a smooth experience
In Yamato, Japan, as in most of the country, tipping is not a common practice. It is generally seen as unnecessary and may even be considered rude. Service charges are typically included in the bill at restaurants and other service establishments. Instead of tipping, customers show appreciation for good service by thanking the staff.
Payment methods in Yamato are diverse, with cash still being widely used. However, credit cards and electronic payments (such as Suica and Pasmo cards, as well as mobile payment options) are increasingly common, especially in urban areas. When using cash, it is customary to place the money in the tray provided rather than handing it directly to the staff.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Yamato.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is one of the best times to visit Yamato, as the cherry blossoms bloom throughout the city. Expect mild temperatures and beautiful parks filled with sakura trees, making it perfect for hanami (flower viewing) picnics.
Summer (June to August) can be hot and humid in Yamato. Expect temperatures to rise above 30°C (86°F). However, this season is filled with local festivals and events, providing a lively atmosphere along with opportunities to experience traditional Japanese culture.
Autumn (September to November) is another ideal time to visit Yamato. The weather is pleasantly cool, and the fall foliage creates stunning landscapes, particularly in parks and gardens. This season also features harvest festivals where you can enjoy seasonal foods.
Winter (December to February) in Yamato is relatively mild compared to other regions in Japan. Expect chilly temperatures but less snow. It's a good time for enjoying warm local cuisine and visiting onsens (hot springs). The New Year period is also a significant cultural time with various traditions and events.
Yamato at Night
Hiking in Yamato
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hiking trail that offers beautiful views of the Kamakura area and its temples, located about 30 minutes from Yamato.
A popular hiking destination with well-marked trails and rich flora and fauna, situated approximately 45 minutes from Yamato.
A famous mountain known for its hiking routes and stunning views from the summit, about an hour away from Yamato.
A mountainous area offering various trails for different skill levels, known for its natural beauty, located around an hour's drive from Yamato.
Local hills that feature accessible trails suitable for short hikes and are great for families, right within the Yamato area.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Yamato through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Yamato by plane.
Located approximately 80 kilometers east of Yamato, Narita International Airport is one of the primary airports serving the Tokyo area, with extensive international connections.
Haneda Airport is situated about 40 kilometers northeast of Yamato and is one of the two primary airports serving the Tokyo metropolitan area, known for its proximity to the city.
Located around 400 kilometers southwest of Yamato, Kansai International Airport serves the Osaka region and is a major international gateway in western Japan.
Approximately 350 kilometers west of Yamato, Chubu Centrair International Airport serves the Nagoya area and offers various international and domestic flights.
Sendai Airport is located about 300 kilometers northeast of Yamato and serves the Tōhoku region, offering both domestic and some international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Yamato, representing around 95% of the population. They are predominantly ethnically Japanese.
A smaller demographic group, often comprising residents with historical ties or immigration from the Korean Peninsula.
Includes residents of Chinese descent, contributing to the multicultural aspect of Yamato.
This category includes various expatriates from countries like the Philippines, Vietnam, and Brazil, who have come for work and settlement.
This includes a mix of various other nationalities and ethnic groups that have made Yamato their home.
The Soul of Yamato
Discover the essence of Yamato through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is extremely popular in Yamato, with numerous local teams and youth leagues contributing to its strong presence in the community.
Soccer has gained significant popularity in Yamato, with many residents participating in local clubs and supporting regional professional teams.
Tennis is widely played in Yamato, with several public courts and clubs offering lessons and competitions for players of all ages.
Basketball enjoys a good following in Yamato, with local schools and community centers hosting leagues and tournaments.
Various forms of martial arts, including judo and karate, are practiced widely in Yamato, reflecting Japan's rich cultural heritage.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Yamato.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Japanese cuisine often features seafood and meat, many restaurants in Yamato offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes. Look for restaurants that serve vegetable tempura, tofu-based dishes, and fresh vegetable sushi rolls for satisfying plant-based options.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can savor dishes like sashimi, rice-based sushi, and yakitori without soy sauce-based marinades. Some restaurants also offer gluten-free soy sauce to accommodate dietary needs, ensuring a delightful and safe dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Yamato with these cultural adventures.