Things To Do
in Yugawara

Yugawara is a picturesque coastal town located in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan, known for its beautiful hot springs, stunning ocean views, and lush surrounding nature. This tranquil destination offers a blend of relaxation and outdoor activities, making it a perfect getaway for visitors seeking both leisure and adventure. The town is also rich in cultural heritage, with historical sites and traditional ryokans (inns) that reflect the local charm.

With its mild climate, Yugawara can be enjoyed year-round, making it an ideal spot for all seasons.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Hot Springs and Coastal Beauty
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Yugawara Onsen, where you can relax in the therapeutic hot springs. Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast at a local ryokan.

afternoon
:

Take a scenic walk along the Yugawara coastline, visiting the Yugawara Beach and soaking in the beautiful ocean views. Stop by the Yugawara Art Museum to appreciate local art.

evening
:

Dine at a local izakaya, enjoying fresh seafood and local specialties. End your day with a peaceful stroll along the beach at sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit the scenic Mount Yaguradake for a morning hike, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area.

afternoon
:

Explore the Hoshutoge viewpoint for some stunning photography opportunities. Afterward, visit the nearby Kakuonji Temple, a serene place with beautiful gardens.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with dinner at a sushi restaurant, enjoying the freshest catch of the day. Consider visiting a local bar or cafe for a relaxing evening atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$15
🍜Ramen Bowl$10
🍵Green Tea$3
🥢Dinner at Izakaya$25
🚆Train Ticket$5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery and coastal views.
  • Rich in cultural heritage and hot spring experiences.
  • Peaceful atmosphere, ideal for relaxation.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation may be less frequent.
  • Some areas may be less accessible without a car.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "おいしい" - Delicious
  • "すみません" - Excuse me
  • "はい" - Yes

Places to Visit in Yugawara

Visit one of these nice places.

Yugawara Beach

A stunning beach with golden sands and a backdrop of mountains, perfect for capturing beautiful sunset shots.

Mount Yaguradake

Offers panoramic views of the coastline and is ideal for landscape photography.

Hoshutoge Viewpoint

A popular spot for photographers, providing breathtaking views of the ocean and surrounding nature.

Culinary Guide

Food in Yugawara

Yugawara offers a delightful culinary experience that showcases the region's fresh seafood and local ingredients. Visitors can indulge in traditional Japanese cuisine as well as unique local dishes.

Yugawara Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Shirasu-don

A rice bowl topped with fresh young sardines, served with a variety of garnishes.

Must-Try!

Yugawara Soba

Buckwheat noodles served hot or cold, often accompanied by a flavorful dipping sauce.

Ika no Shiokara

Fermented squid served as a side dish, often enjoyed with sake.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Yugawara Market

A local market offering fresh seafood, produce, and snacks, perfect for sampling local fare.

Climate Guide

Weather

Yugawara experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Spring (March to May) brings mild temperatures and blooming flowers. Summer (June to August) is warm and humid, ideal for beach activities. Autumn (September to November) features cool temperatures and colorful foliage. Winter (December to February) is cold, with occasional snowfall, making it perfect for hot spring visits.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Tradition

Show respect for local customs and traditions, especially in temples and hot springs.

Quietness in Public Spaces

Maintain a low volume in public transport and shared spaces to respect the serenity of the environment.

Remove Shoes Indoors

Always remove your shoes before entering someone's home or a traditional inn.

Safety Guide

Safety

Yugawara is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, it’s advisable to take normal safety precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings and securing personal belongings. In case of emergencies, local hospitals and clinics are available, and it’s recommended to have travel insurance.

Tipping in Yugawara

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan and can sometimes be considered rude. Excellent service is expected as part of the experience.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller shops and restaurants.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings cherry blossoms and mild weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Summer can be hot and humid, perfect for beach activities and enjoying the local festivals.

Autumn

Autumn offers beautiful fall foliage, particularly in the mountains, making hikes particularly scenic.

Winter

Winter is colder but offers a cozy atmosphere, perfect for enjoying hot springs and winter festivals.

Nightlife Guide

Yugawara at Night

Yugawara's nightlife is relatively low-key, focusing on relaxed dining and enjoying the beautiful coastal views. There are several izakayas, bars, and cafes that offer a cozy atmosphere for socializing. While it may not have the bustling nightlife of larger cities, the serene environment is perfect for enjoying a quiet evening with friends or loved ones.

Hiking in Yugawara

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kintokiyama Trail

A moderate hiking trail that leads to the summit of Kintokiyama, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and coastline.

Arai Mountain Trail

This trail is suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers, featuring varied terrain and beautiful scenery along the way.

Airports

How to reach Yugawara by plane.

Haneda Airport (HND)

Approximately 80 km from Yugawara, Haneda Airport is one of the main international airports in Tokyo, offering numerous domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Yugawara is quite walkable, especially in the town center, where many attractions, restaurants, and shops are located within a short walking distance. The coastal areas and parks also offer pleasant walking paths, making it easy to explore the surroundings without needing a vehicle.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of residents are Japanese, with a blend of families, retirees, and young professionals contributing to the local community.

Tourists

Yugawara attracts both domestic and international tourists, particularly those seeking hot springs and natural beauty.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a popular sport in Japan, with local teams and high school competitions frequently held in the region.

Soccer

Soccer also enjoys a strong following, with community leagues and local teams participating in regional competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Yugawara is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bicycle. Public transportation includes local buses and trains, with services connecting to nearby cities. However, during peak tourist seasons, some areas may experience increased foot traffic, especially near popular attractions.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Yugawara.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it’s advisable to inform the staff about dietary restrictions.

Gluten-Free

While gluten-free options may not be widely available, soba noodles can be made with buckwheat, which is naturally gluten-free.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Yugawara is accessible, with several clinics and hospitals available in the town. Emergency services are prompt, and travelers are advised to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses. Most healthcare professionals can communicate in basic English, especially in larger facilities.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide