Things To Do
in Zushi
Zushi is a small coastal city in Kanagawa Prefecture, known for its sandy bay, relaxed seaside atmosphere, and proximity to Tokyo and Kamakura. The town is popular with beachgoers, windsurfers, and commuters who appreciate its mix of residential neighborhoods, cafes, and parks. Zushi offers easy access to historical sites in nearby Kamakura and naval heritage in Yokosuka, while maintaining a quieter, local feel.
The waterfront, seasonal festivals, and a network of bike paths make it a pleasant base for short stays or day trips along the Shonan coast.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Zushi City Museum, where you can learn about the local history and culture. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets lined with traditional wooden houses, immersing yourself in the serene atmosphere. Don't forget to stop by a local café for a taste of freshly brewed Japanese coffee and a pastry.
In the afternoon, head to Zushi Beach, where you can relax and enjoy the beautiful seaside views. Rent a paddleboard or kayak to explore the calm waters, allowing you to connect with nature and soak up the sun. As the day progresses, visit the nearby Zushi Marina and enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the waterfront restaurants.
As night falls, enjoy a delightful dinner at a traditional izakaya, savoring local specialties such as grilled fish and seasonal vegetables. After dinner, take a peaceful walk along the beach, watching the waves gently lap at the shore under the starlit sky. End your day with a visit to a local onsen to unwind and rejuvenate.
Kick off your morning with a refreshing swim in the clear waters of Zushi Beach, where the gentle waves provide an invigorating start to the day. Take a beachside yoga class, where you can stretch and center yourself with the sound of the ocean in the background. After yoga, enjoy a healthy breakfast at a café overlooking the beach, relishing fresh juices and fruit bowls.
In the afternoon, dive into the exciting world of water sports by renting jet skis or trying your hand at windsurfing. Join a guided snorkeling tour to explore the underwater beauty of the nearby reefs and marine life. Afterward, relax on the beach with some sunbathing and a good book, enjoying the warm coastal breeze.
As the sun sets, indulge in a beach barbecue experience with local seafood, grilled to perfection. Gather around a bonfire with friends or family, sharing stories and enjoying the warm glow of the fire. Cap off the evening by watching the sunset over the horizon, a spectacular display of color illuminating the sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $3-6 |
| 🚌Local train ride (short) | $1.50-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $70-150 |
| 🍺Beer at a bar | $4-7 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful, relaxed seaside atmosphere with easy access to Tokyo and Kamakura
- Good beach activities (windsurfing, paddleboarding) and pleasant promenades
- Fresh local seafood and small, friendly restaurants
- Less touristy and quieter than larger coastal towns
- Limited nightlife and fewer dining options compared with larger cities
- Crowded on summer weekends and holidays
- Some smaller businesses accept only cash
- Weather-related disruptions possible in typhoon season
- "こんにちは" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
- "すみません" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "いくらですか？" - How much is this?
- "英語を話せますか？" - Do you speak English?
- "トイレはどこですか？" - Where is the restroom?
Places to Visit in Zushi
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden sand, wide bay views, windsurfers and sailboats—excellent for sunrise, sunset and lifestyle shots.
Marina with moored boats and scenic piers—good for nautical frames and reflections on calm days.
Elevated viewpoints offer sweeping vistas of Sagami Bay and Mount Fuji on clear days.
Historic temples, torii gates and atmospheric alleyways provide classic shots of traditional Japan close to Zushi.
Candid urban-and-sea scenes, cyclists, families and long perspectives along the shoreline.
Food in Zushi
Zushi Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Locally caught fish and shellfish served raw or simply grilled—available at seafood restaurants and izakayas around Zushi and nearby Yokosuka.
Must-Try!
Small boiled or dried fish often served over rice (shirasu-don) in the Shonan coastal area; seasonal freshness makes it a must-try at local eateries.
Grilled skewers, tempura and small plates ideal for sharing in casual evening spots near the station or waterfront.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Small fishmongers and occasional morning stalls near Zushi and Hayama sell fresh catch and prepared items—try shirasu and ready-made sashimi sets for takeaway.
A short trip to Kamakura gives access to lively street food—sweet rice cakes, croquettes and local snacks—ideal for sampling while sightseeing.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Bow slightly when greeting, and be polite—Japanese social interactions emphasize respect and quiet behavior in public spaces.
Remove shoes when entering homes and some traditional accommodations or temples—look for a genkan (entry) and follow the host’s lead.
Keep phone calls to a minimum and set phones to silent on trains; conversations are usually kept low.
Public trash bins are scarce—carry a small bag for rubbish and separate recyclables when bins are available.
Safety
Tipping in Zushi
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan and can be confusing; excellent service is built into prices. If you really want to show appreciation, present a small gift or money politely in an envelope—do not leave cash on a table.
Cash (yen) is widely used, especially in small shops, markets and some restaurants. Credit cards are accepted at larger hotels, restaurants and chain stores, but bring cash for izakayas, small cafes and local vendors. IC transit cards (Suica/Pasmo) work for trains, buses and many shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cherry blossoms bloom in late March–April; mild temperatures and pleasant sea breezes make it ideal for walking and temple visits. Expect crowds on popular weekend spots near Kamakura.
Warm to hot weather with beach season in full swing (June–August); weekends are busy with swimmers and windsurfers, and occasional typhoons can bring heavy rain—bring sun protection and check forecasts.
Cooler temperatures and clear skies offer excellent conditions for hiking and photography; foliage appears in nearby hills from late October onwards and crowds thin compared to summer.
Mild but cool winters with fewer tourists; occasional clear days reveal Mount Fuji from the coast. Sea activities wind down and some smaller shops may have shorter hours.
Zushi at Night
Hiking in Zushi
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A day-hiking option in the broader Kanagawa area offering forest trails and viewpoints—reachable by train and bus then hiking paths.
Network of well-maintained trails linking temples, shrines and hilltop views; moderate hikes with cultural stops, great for half-day excursions.
Short coastal and hill walks around Hayama provide easy routes with harbor views and opportunities for birdwatching and photography.
Airports
How to reach Zushi by plane.
Approximately 45–70 minutes by train/taxi depending on connections; closest major airport for domestic and many international flights—easy access to Zushi via Keikyu Line and JR connections.
About 90–120 minutes by train (Narita Express to Tokyo then transfer) or longer by bus—more international long-haul options, but further from Zushi than Haneda.
US military facilities in the region (Yokota, Yokosuka) are relevant for military personnel but not general commercial travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents commute to Tokyo or Yokosuka for work, making Zushi a popular residential area with a mix of families and professionals.
Established local communities, including long-term residents who enjoy the quieter coastal lifestyle.
Weekend visitors and beachgoers from Tokyo and Kanagawa swell the town population during summer and holidays.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Sagami Bay’s winds make Zushi and nearby Hayama hubs for windsurfing, sailing and board sports.
Common during summer on the sandy stretches of Zushi Beach, often played by locals and visitors.
Recreational cycling along the coast and to nearby Kamakura is popular among residents and day-trippers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Zushi.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist but are limited; order vegetable tempura, soba/udon with seaweed/vegetable broths, or request tofu-based dishes. Many restaurants can adjust dishes, but English proficiency varies—use translation apps or carry a vegetarian phrase card.
More challenging due to dashi (fish stock) common in Japanese cuisine; stick to salads, pickles, rice and some soba, and confirm broths are vegan when possible. Specialty cafes in nearby larger towns can offer vegan meals.
Soy sauce and tempura contain gluten—ask for tamari or plainly prepared grilled fish and rice dishes. Cross-contamination risk is present; communicate restrictions clearly.