Considered the birthplace of Japanese surf culture, Chigasaki lies where the Sagami River meets the Pacific Ocean. Along with being near a historic Shinto shrine, it’s home to black volcanic beaches and a family-friendly water park.

Things to do

Spend a day relaxing on the shores of Southern Beach, a popular swimming area lined with souvenir shops and restaurants. Enjoy the views towards the hat-shaped rock of Eboshi-iwa as you kick back on the black volcanic sands or grab an inner tube to float with the locals in the Pacific waters.

Want to learn to surf? Head across the Sagami River to Shonan Beach where numerous surf shops and schools are located. Get in the local Hawaiian spirit by purchasing an Aloha shirt or grab a cocktail in one of the beach shack bars.

Those who aren’t so confident in the open ocean can still get wet at the Tsujido Seaside Park, which features numerous pools and water slides designed for all ages. Explore the park on a bicycle or go-kart, relax on the grassy lawns and learn to drive using the simulators in the Traffic Exhibition Hall.

If you want an afternoon away from the water, visit the Shinto shrine of Samukawa that overlooks the Sagami River just upstream from Chigasaki. Legend states it was founded in the 5th century during the reign of Emperor Yuryaku, with devotees coming to pray for the removal of bad fortune and negative energies.

Getting around

Chigasaki is around 1.5 hours by train from Tokyo and Haneda Airport. The railway connects Chigasaki with towns and cities along the coast while buses travel throughout the city and to its beaches.