One of the most populous cities in the Greater Tokyo Area, Sagamihara centres around the waters of Lake Sagami. It’s home to some of the oldest ruins in Japan and a brightly illuminated theme park and is near Mount Takao’s hiking trails.
Things to do in Sagamihara
History buffs can visit Tana Mukaihara Ruins Park, which encompasses 20,000-year-old ruins believed to be the oldest in Japan. Wander through the ancient residence that has been carefully restored to its prehistoric condition and learn about the site’s cultural history at the on-site museum.
Explore the hiking trails of Mount Takao, which rises almost 600 metres to the west of Sagamihara and is home to the Buddhist temple of Takaosan Yakuōin Yūkiji. At its base lies the Tama Forest Science Garden where around 1,000 different species of native and exotic trees are planted, including 250 different varieties of cherry blossoms.
Escape the bustle of Sagamihara at Lake Sagami, which was created following the damming of the Sagami River in 1947. Rent a boat to explore the lake, fish for black bass and Prussian carp or wander along one of the surrounding hiking trails offering impressive lake views.
Looking for something to do after dark? Witness the magnificent illuminations at the Lake Sagami Pleasure Forest, which changes its themes throughout the year. There are rides and attractions to keep young visitors entertained, as well as regular stage shows and food stands set up next to colourful and creative LED light displays.
Getting around Sagamihara
Sagamihara is around 1.5 hours by train from the centre of Tokyo and around 1.5 hours from Haneda Airport. Both trains and buses travel throughout Sagamihara and connect most of the city’s attractions.