Sweeping views across the coast and mountains, an annual Tanabata festival and a pilgrimage route about ten kilometers long reveal Hiratsuka’s many sides. You can plan your stay around the scenery, culture, seasonal experiences or a longer walking leg.

Views between the plateau and the sea

Shonan-daira is a plateau about 180 meters high and a scenic viewpoint. From there, you can see the Shonan coast, the Tanzawa Mountains, Mount Fuji, and the mountains of Hakone and Izu. The panorama brings together the coast and several mountain landscapes. If you’re mainly looking for sweeping views, Shonan-daira is a clear scenic highlight.

Hiratsuka Sea Terrace offers a different vantage point: the park is by the sea. From the observation terrace and the waterfront terrace, you can see Mount Fuji and Sagami Bay toward Enoshima and Izu. The two places offer different perspectives: from Shonan-daira, the view extends across the coast and mountains, while the bay takes center stage at Sea Terrace.

Spring blossoms and time outdoors

In spring, Shonan-daira is a popular place to view cherry blossoms and azaleas, and it also serves as a green walking course. The site combines a seasonal natural attraction with a walking activity. If both appeal to you, a visit to Shonan-daira brings these interests together in one place.

At Shonan Kaigan Park, the large lawn is suitable for ball games, running and walks with pets. This differs from the walking course at Shonan-daira: here, you can choose from several leisure activities on the lawn, while the other site offers hiking and spring blossoms. Choose based on whether you’d rather plan a walking leg or spend time on a lawn.

A historic Tanabata festival

The Shonan Hiratsuka Tanabata Festival takes place every year in early July. Spectacular Tanabata decorations and a variety of events are highlights of the festival. The exact dates and program vary from year to year; if you’re planning your visit around the festival, check the information for that year.

The festival’s history began in July 1950 with a reconstruction festival to promote commerce. In July 1951, the first Tanabata festival under its new name was held, modeled on the Sendai Tanabata Festival. The two dates mark different stages: its beginnings as a reconstruction festival and the first festival under the name it later became known by. This background adds the festival’s development to a visit to see the decorations and events.

Sakitori Shrine and old trees

Sakitori Shrine is mentioned in the Engishiki, a Heian-period register. Large cherry and zelkova trees, as well as old cedars, grow on the grounds. The shrine has two notable features: its early mention in the register and the groups of trees on its grounds. This makes it interesting to travelers who appreciate both historic sites and mature landscapes.

Seasonal strawberries and local produce

At the Shonan Strawberry Picking Center, strawberry picking includes 30 minutes of all-you-can-eat strawberries and free refills of condensed milk. Seasonal availability may vary. Before making plans, check the latest information on reservations and the available season.

Asatsuyu Hiroba offers fresh seasonal farm produce and local ingredients. Asatsuyu Kobo makes gelato using Hiratsuka milk and seasonal locally grown vegetables. Hiroba focuses on produce and ingredients, while Kobo offers a product made with named local ingredients. Availability and gelato varieties may change seasonally.

A pilgrimage route on foot

The Shonan Hiratsuka Seven Gods Pilgrimage is a route about ten kilometers long through Hiratsuka, taking approximately three hours to walk. If you’re planning a longer walking leg, this approximate distance and duration can help you plan your trip. Local volunteers offer guided tours on the 7th of each month, except in July and August. If you’re interested in a guided tour, plan around this schedule and check the latest tour information in advance.

Discover more destinations: Yokohama, Yokosuka, Ogimachi, Yugawara, Atsugi, Odawara, Kamakura, Kawasaki

For the broader travel overview: Kanagawa Prefecture.