Sagamihara
Introduction
Located in Kanagawa Prefecture, Sagamihara offers you a residential experience within the Greater Tokyo Area. You can explore this expansive city situated just north of Machida.
Before you go
Prepare for your visit by exploring the diverse neighborhoods that define the city's character, including Hashimoto in the east, Fujino to the north, and Sagami Ono in the south.
You can access a Japanese-only guide site provided by the local tourist association, which features integrated Google Translate to help you navigate your trip.
Getting there
You can reach Sagamihara by traveling on the JR Yokohama Line. You will find access to the area at Kobuchi, Fuchinobe, Yabe, or Sagamihara stations.
Getting around
You can navigate the region using the various highways and expressways located throughout the area.
Where to stay
You can find accommodations in the Chuo Ward area, where you can stay at a hotel located within a short walk of Sagamihara Station.
Food & drink
Savor the local culinary scene by visiting Kuimonoya Wan Sagamionoten for a meal or head to Shoya, a branch of a popular izakaya chain. If you prefer a drink in a lively atmosphere, visit BUZZ, where you can enjoy cheese fondue and select from an extensive variety of imported beers while watching sports on a large screen.
Explore different drinking experiences in the city:
- Amusement Bar Gaps offers a unique spot for your evening.
- Lovers ROCK Sagamiharaten provides a setting where the bar attendant will show you the performance.
What to see and do
Explore the local parks and historical sites to experience the diverse scenery of the region. You can visit Fuchinobe Park to swim in the Ginga Arena pool or watch professional baseball and high school basketball at the Sagamihara Stadium. For a more tranquil experience, Kanuma Park offers a duck pond frequented by swans and a mock road where children can practice riding bicycles. During the cherry blossom season and the rainy season, you can enjoy the blossoms and hydrangea bushes, respectively. If you prefer to see flowers throughout all four seasons, head to Sagamihara North Park.
Engage with the local history and nature through these notable sites:
- Tanamukaihara Ruins, which feature some of the oldest ruins in Japan and a nearby museum where you can explore local culture.
- Tsukui Lake, where you can go fishing, visit flower markets, or climb Mount Shiroyama to see the surrounding area.
- Sagami Lake, a popular location for viewing summer fireworks.
- Takatabashi Bridge, where you can enjoy the clean waters of the Sagamihara River and witness the carp-shaped windsock festival in May.
- Myōgen-Temple, a historic site dating back to 1598.
When to go
You can experience a humid subtropical climate when visiting Sagamihara, characterized by warm summers and cool winters. If you prefer drier conditions, the winter months offer a cooler atmosphere with little to no snowfall.
During the summer, you should prepare for high humidity and warmth. Be mindful that the late summer period brings significant rainfall, with the wettest month occurring in September.
Three days in Sagamihara
Day one, you can begin your journey in the heart of the city. Explore the local area and visit Fuchinobe Park or find a spot to relax near Sagamihara North Park. You can also take time to engage with the surroundings at Tanamukaihara Ruins.
Day two, travel toward the natural scenery. You can enjoy the outdoors at Tsukui Lake or visit Mount Shiroyama. If you prefer to see more of the local landscape, spend your time near Sagami Lake and the Takatabashi Bridge.
Day three, experience the local atmosphere in different districts. You can find entertainment at Ginga Arena or Sagamihara Stadium, or seek out a unique vibe at Amusement Bar Gaps or Lovers ROCK Sagamiharaten.