Things To Do
in Yugawara

Small weekend markets and stalls near Yugawara Station sell rice cakes, grilled seafood skewers and seasonal treats — try dango or freshly grilled fish skewers when available.

Seasonal stands sell plums, citrus and other local produce (plum products are common during the plum festival season).

Wash and rinse thoroughly before entering baths, no swimsuits, tie long hair up and avoid tattoos in many public baths (ask for tattoo-friendly facilities if needed).

Keep voices low on trains and in public spaces, line up politely and avoid eating while walking in busy areas.

Remove shoes when entering some ryokan, traditional shops or private homes — follow cues and use provided slippers.

Be respectful at shrines: bow at the entrance, follow purification rituals if you wish, and avoid loud behavior or intrusive photography during ceremonies.

Tipping is not customary in Japan and can sometimes confuse staff; service charges may be included in ryokan bills. A polite thank-you and good manners are preferred; if you must reward exceptional service, present cash in an envelope discreetly.

Credit cards are increasingly accepted but smaller shops, markets and some ryokan or local restaurants may be cash-only. ATMs that accept international cards are found at post offices and convenience stores; carry some yen for buses, small purchases and onsen entry fees.

Cherry blossoms and late plum blossoms (February–March) make the town especially pretty; mild temperatures and increasing tourist numbers on weekends. Good time for hiking and coastal walks.

Warm, humid weather with beach activity and occasional afternoon showers; coastal breezes help. July–August are peak domestic holiday months — expect crowds on beaches and busy trains.

Crisp air and autumn foliage on the hillsides (October–November); comfortable temperatures for hiking and outdoor photography with fewer crowds.

Cool, sometimes chilly weather but generally mild coastal winters; plum trees bloom in late winter (February–March). Onsen season is popular — bring warm layers for evenings.

A short, accessible hike with well-marked paths and an observation deck offering panoramic views of Sagami Bay; suitable for most hikers and a popular sunrise spot.

Rugged coastal route with cliffs, rock formations and sea views — moderate difficulty with rewarding seascapes and wildlife viewing.

Routes linking local hills and minor peaks with forested sections and seasonal foliage; check local maps for access points and trail conditions.

Gentler walks along riverside sections and park areas, good for family strolls and birdwatching.

Long-term residents and families who work in nearby cities or run local businesses.

Like many regional Japanese towns, Yugawara has an aging population; services and community life reflect this demographic.

Day-trippers and short-stay tourists from Tokyo and Kanagawa seeking onsen and coastal relaxation, especially on weekends and holidays.

Mainly Japanese domestic tourists with seasonal international travelers, particularly those exploring Hakone/Atami routes.

Vegetarian options exist but are limited; many kaiseki menus include fish broth (dashi). Request vegetarian meals in advance at ryokan and explain restrictions at restaurants; look for soba/udon shops that can prepare noodle dishes with soy-based sauces rather than fish broth.

Vegan choices are harder to find — bring snacks and be prepared to ask restaurants to omit fish-based dashi. Larger cafés and station convenience stores have some vegan-friendly items.

Gluten-free dining requires care: soy sauce and tempura contain gluten. Communicate needs clearly and opt for plain grilled fish, rice and vegetables where possible.

Carry a note in Japanese listing your allergies and present it at restaurants; many smaller eateries have limited allergy-handling capacity.