12 Recommended Tourist Spots in Hayama: Sea, Sunset, Power Spots, and Stylish Destinations

When you think of Hayama, images of seaside drives and lunch at scenic hotels in a stylish Shonan setting naturally come to mind. On top of that, the area also has a calm, mature atmosphere, probably because of the presence of the Imperial Villa.

You may already have a clear image of the place, but when it comes to figuring out where and how to start exploring, don’t you find yourself a little unsure? So here are some recommended spots for enjoying Hayama sightseeing, perfect for everyone—from kids to seniors!

1. Morito Shrine

Is there any other shrine with such an amazing location? The view from Morito Shrine, located along Morito Coast, is simply breathtaking. Because it faces west, the scenery during sunset is particularly beautiful. Watching the sun set behind Enoshima and the Hakone mountains is an enchanting sight. This stunning view is known as the “Sekisho (Evening Glow) of Morito,” and it’s definitely a scene you can’t miss when visiting Hayama.

Founded by Minamoto no Yoritomo, Morito Shrine is Hayama’s most revered guardian shrine and a well-known power spot. It’s said to bring blessings for love and safe childbirth. Highlights include the grand main hall built in the Kamakura period, the sacred tree “Hibyaku-shin,” believed to be over 800 years old, and the bright red Misogi Bridge that leads from the shrine to the sea. It’s a must-see spot for sightseeing.

2. Hayama Beaches / Swimming Areas

◆ Morito Beach

Just a one-minute walk from Morito Shrine. This beach gives you that classic Shonan vibe, where you can swim while enjoying views of Enoshima and Mt. Fuji. It’s Hayama’s widest sandy beach, and the calm waves make it perfect for kids to play safely. Yachts and windsurfers cruising by add to the lively vacation atmosphere. The sunset at Morito Beach is breathtaking! It’s a wonderful spot to visit, not just in summer but all year round.

◆ Isshiki Beach / Isshiki Swimming Area

This peaceful beach is surrounded by Mt. Sangaoka and the Imperial Villa. The sound of the waves and the breeze create a refreshing atmosphere. The shallow, wide sandy shore makes it great for kids to explore the tide pools. Snorkeling is also a fun activity here!

Isshiki Beach has the charm of an old-fashioned swimming area, but its cafes and beach huts have a modern, stylish touch. In summer, “Blue Moon Hayama” opens and jazz music plays at night, creating a sophisticated, adult beach vibe. It’s a unique summer night experience, different from other beaches in Shonan.

◆ Chojagasaki Beach / Ohama Swimming Area

Located on the border between Yokosuka and Hayama, Chojagasaki’s Ohama Beach is a peaceful and beautiful spot surrounded by the peninsula. The water is clean, and there are rocky areas perfect for snorkeling. Fishing from the breakwater is also popular. You can also enjoy spectacular sunset views of Hakone, Mt. Fuji, and Enoshima from here.

3. Hayama Marina

When you think of Hayama, many people probably imagine Hayama Marina. The sight of white yacht sails floating on the calm sea is the perfect representation of Hayama. Originally, Hayama was just a small fishing port until a Japanese person brought a yacht here for the first time in 1882 (Meiji 15). Since then, Hayama has been known as one of Japan’s premier yacht harbors.

Even if you don’t own a boat, Hayama Marina is a fun sightseeing spot to visit. You can enjoy shopping and lunch here. Of course, there are also sea cruises available. You can take a cruise toward Enoshima or charter a boat with friends (reservation required). It’s the perfect place to experience a more mature, sophisticated side of Hayama sightseeing.

4. Hayama Park

Hayama Park is a spacious park where both adults and children can relax and have fun. You can lie down on the lawn while enjoying views of Mt. Fuji and Enoshima or have a picnic. If you take a stroll through the pine forest along the coast, you’ll feel the pleasant sea breeze. There’s also a playground area where the sounds of children laughing and playing on the slides and swings add to the lively atmosphere.

This area was once the Imperial Villa’s horse training grounds, making it an extraordinary and luxurious park experience. Don’t miss it! If you go down to the beach, you’ll find Ohama Beach, where you can enjoy tide pooling and marine sports. The sunset views from here are stunning, too.

5. Ajisai (Hydrangea) Park

In the middle of Hayama Town stands a gently rounded hill area called Mt. Sangaoka Green Space. On the hillside of this area, you’ll find Ajisai Park, where hydrangeas bloom beautifully. If you’re visiting Hayama in early summer, this is a must-see! There are around 3,000 colorful hydrangea plants here. Besides the flowers’ beauty, the view is fantastic. You can see the red torii gate of Morito Coast, Mt. Fuji, and even Hakone in the distance beyond the hydrangeas.

6. Hayama Imperial Villa & Hayama Shiosai Park

At Hayama Shiosai Park, you can admire a magnificent Japanese garden because this area was once the grounds of the Hayama Imperial Villa. You can enjoy a walk through Japanese cultural scenery, viewing the 3-meter-tall Fukei Waterfall or the black pine forest. Relax in the tea house Ikkei-an while enjoying matcha tea—definitely something to add to your sightseeing plans.

7. The Museum of Modern Art, Hayama (Kanagawa Prefectural Museum)

A modern museum perfectly blended with Hayama’s scenic beauty. Not only can you enjoy art exhibitions, but its location right by the sea offers breathtaking views. The courtyard is open for anyone to take a leisurely stroll. Inside the museum, there’s the restaurant Orange Bleue, one of the few places in the area where you can enjoy lunch. Why not make it a part of your Hayama sightseeing memories by savoring a delicious meal made from local ingredients?

8. Yujiro Ishihara Monument

The late Yujiro Ishihara, a Showa-era superstar, spent his youth in Hayama. He was famously fond of Hayama and sailing. The Yujiro Ishihara Monument, built overlooking the sea, seems to symbolize how he continues to be loved by fans today. It’s located right behind Morito Shrine, and the view of the sea from there is one of Hayama’s most iconic sights!

9. Hayama Lighthouse

Hayama Lighthouse is often called Yujiro Lighthouse. It was built through donations organized by Yujiro Ishihara’s brother, Shintaro Ishihara, on the third anniversary of Yujiro’s passing. Together with the Yujiro Monument, it has become a famous sightseeing spot in Hayama.

10. Pudding Factory MARLOWE Hayama Store

One of Hayama’s must-try tastes is the pudding from Pudding Factory MARLOWE. Not only is their popular pudding delicious, but the café atmosphere adds to your Hayama sightseeing experience. Sitting at the terrace while enjoying the pleasant breeze and a sweet treat is highly recommended. On weekdays, they offer a discounted refill pudding price, which makes it even better. Why not indulge yourself?

11. Hayama Hotel Otowa no Mori

If you want to enjoy Hayama’s breathtaking scenery in luxury, Hayama Hotel Otowa no Mori is the place! Highly recommended is spending time at the café terrace, where the stunning ocean view is the main attraction. Their dishes, including stew and hamburgers made with Hayama beef, are also fantastic. While they don’t take reservations, it’s worth lining up for this unforgettable taste and view.

12. Genbei Sandal Shop

Genbei Shop, specializing in beach sandals, is practically a Hayama tourist landmark. Founded in the Edo period, it originally sold tabi (traditional Japanese socks), but today it’s known for high-quality beach sandals. Hand-attached soft natural rubber straps and elevated soles that fit your feet comfortably make them a joy to wear. They offer sizes in 12 stages and over 100 color combinations. Mix and match to find your favorite pair!

13. Hayama Port Sunday Morning Market

Every Sunday morning, the Hayama Port Sunday Morning Market is held in front of the Hayama Fishery Cooperative, and it’s a sightseeing spot worth getting up early for! The most popular item is the tart from Mare de Chaya. A whole tart sells for 1,000 yen, and the trimmings are only 100 yen! It’s such a bargain, but they sell out quickly, so if you’re aiming to get one, go early.

Besides that, you can find lots of delicious Hayama specialties, from seafood like whitebait and abalone to vegetables, pickles, and flowers. After buying a seafood bowl, why not enjoy it while sitting by the seaside? It’s a classic Hayama experience! Once you’re full from the morning market, you’ll have plenty of energy to explore more of Hayama.

◎ Summary

How did you like our selection of 12 sightseeing spots in Hayama? Whether you’re a young person visiting for surfing or a date, or a family looking for a fun outing, Hayama is a town that everyone can enjoy. You can go for a scenic drive or take the train for a relaxing trip—both are great options.

We hope you’ll make the most of your trip to Shonan and Hayama with this guide! Wishing you sunny weather so you can catch the most beautiful sunset at one of these stunning spots.

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