Things To Do
in Yamato

Yamato is a vibrant city located in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan, known for its rich history and modern amenities. The city offers a unique blend of traditional Japanese culture and contemporary urban life. Surrounded by beautiful parks and gardens, Yamato is a great destination for nature lovers and those looking to explore Japan's heritage.

Its convenient location near Yokohama and Tokyo makes it an ideal base for exploring the Kanto region.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

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

Start your day with a visit to the Yamato Historical Museum to learn about the local history and culture.

afternoon
:

Stroll through the scenic Yamato Central Park, enjoying the beautiful landscapes and perhaps a picnic lunch.

evening
:

Dine at a local izakaya to experience traditional Japanese dining and socialize with locals.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Shopping
morning
:

Begin with a hike to the nearby Mount Oyama for breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

afternoon
:

Visit the Yamato shopping district for some retail therapy, exploring local shops and cafes.

evening
:

End your trip with a relaxing visit to an onsen (hot spring) to unwind and rejuvenate.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi meal$20
Coffee$3
🍜Ramen bowl$8
🚌Public transport ticket$2
🏨Hotel per night$100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Beautiful parks and outdoor spaces.
  • Convenient access to Tokyo and Yokohama.
  • Less vibrant nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Limited English speakers in some areas.
  • Public transport options can be less frequent in rural areas.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "お手洗いはどこですか?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "これはいくらですか?" - How much is this?

Places to Visit in Yamato

Visit one of these nice places.

Yamato Central Park

A picturesque park with seasonal flowers, perfect for nature photography.

Mizuki Shrine

A serene shrine with traditional architecture, providing great photo opportunities, especially during cherry blossom season.

Mount Oyama

Offers stunning panoramic views and breathtaking landscapes, ideal for landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Yamato

Yamato offers a delightful array of local cuisine that showcases the flavors of Kanagawa Prefecture. Visitors can enjoy both traditional dishes and modern culinary innovations.

Yamato Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Shirasu Don

A bowl of rice topped with fresh young sardines, often served with a dash of soy sauce.

Must-Try!

Kakigori

A popular Japanese shaved ice dessert, perfect for cooling down in summer, typically flavored with sweet syrups.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Yamato Food Market

A local market featuring fresh produce, seafood, and street food stalls, ideal for sampling local flavors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Yamato experiences a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F) or more, while winter temperatures generally hover around 5°C (41°F). Rainfall is common in the summer months, and the city enjoys beautiful cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respectful Behavior

Maintain a respectful demeanor, especially in public spaces, and avoid loud conversations.

Shoes Off Indoors

It is customary to remove shoes when entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments.

Polite Greetings

A bow is a common form of greeting; saying 'Arigato' (thank you) is appreciated.

Safety Guide

Safety

Yamato is considered a very safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it is always advisable to take standard precautions, such as keeping an eye on personal belongings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night.

Tipping in Yamato

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is not customary in Japan, and can be considered rude; excellent service is typically expected without additional gratuity.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, and credit cards are increasingly common in larger establishments; however, it's advisable to carry cash for smaller shops.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and beautiful cherry blossoms, making it a great time for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Hot and humid weather prevails, ideal for enjoying local beaches and summer festivals, but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and vibrant fall foliage create picturesque scenery, perfect for hiking and photography.

Winter

Mild winters with occasional snowfall, making it a charming time to visit hot springs and enjoy winter illuminations.

Nightlife Guide

Yamato at Night

Yamato's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities, but it features a variety of izakayas, bars, and karaoke venues. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, with many locals enjoying after-work drinks. Popular areas include the city center and near the train station, where visitors can find a mix of traditional and modern establishments.

Hiking in Yamato

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Oyama Trail

A well-marked trail leading to the summit of Mount Oyama, offering stunning views and a moderate challenge for hikers.

Tanzawa-Oyama Quasi-National Park

Features a network of trails for various skill levels, with beautiful scenery and opportunities to see local wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Yamato by plane.

Haneda Airport

Located about 30 km from Yamato, Haneda Airport is one of Tokyo's main airports, offering both domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Yamato is a highly walkable city, with well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas, especially around the city center and parks. Many attractions are within walking distance, making it easy to explore on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

Many young professionals live in Yamato, commuting to Tokyo and Yokohama for work while enjoying a quieter lifestyle.

Families

Yamato is home to many families attracted by its parks, schools, and safe environment.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a favorite pastime in Japan, with many local teams and amateur leagues; attending a game can be a fun experience.

Soccer

Soccer is also popular, with various clubs in the area; matches often draw enthusiastic crowds.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Yamato is generally manageable, though rush hours can see congestion, especially near train stations. Public transportation, including buses and trains, is efficient and reliable, making it easy to navigate the city and surrounding areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Yamato.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes; however, it's advisable to check if dashi (fish stock) is used in soups.

Gluten-Free Choices

Gluten-free options are limited, but rice dishes and certain sushi can be suitable; always confirm with the staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Yamato is accessible, with several hospitals and clinics available for residents and tourists. Emergency services are prompt, and most medical facilities have English-speaking staff. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical care.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide