Living in the city, it can be hard to find time to relax in nature. Today, I’d like to introduce four natural spots that are easily accessible from Yokohama within an hour by public transportation. These places are safe and enjoyable for small children and elderly parents alike.
If You Want to See the Sea: Morito Beach in Zushi
Located in the Zushi-Hayama area, Morito Beach is the widest sandy beach in the region. The calm waves make it ideal for swimming, and it’s a great place to take children. There are beach houses (rest areas on the beach where you can eat, drink, and shower), and the surrounding area has cafes, restaurants, and clothing stores, making it a pleasant place even for those who don’t swim.
Nearby, you’ll find Morito Shrine. Consider visiting the shrine before heading to the beach. On a clear day, you can even see Mount Fuji, which is a spectacular sight.
Though I haven’t seen it myself, the sunset here is said to be beautiful. Morito Beach is also famous for windsurfing.
How to Get There:
- Take the Keikyu Line to Zushi-Hayama Station.
- From there, take Keikyu bus towards Hayama via the coastline and get off at the “Morito Kaigan” bus stop. It takes about 10 minutes.
- It’s about 50 minutes from Yokohama Station.
Address: Horiuchi, Hayama-machi, Miura-gun, Kanagawa Prefecture
If You Want to Relax Among the Trees and Have a Picnic: Jike Furusato Village
From Aobadai Station, take a bus and walk along the path to see rice fields and hear birds chirping. This area, known as Yato, is a valley formed by erosion of hilly terrain and retains its traditional landscape.
Walking along the wooded paths, you’ll find a lookout point and a pond. The varying elevations make for good exercise, and the entire walk takes about an hour and a half. Wear comfortable shoes for walking.There are different course options, so even small children and the elderly can enjoy it
In summer, you might even see fireflies.
There is an ancient tomb nearby, which history enthusiasts will find fascinating.
While there are a few cafes around, I recommend bringing your own lunch and drinks.
How to Get There:
- Take the Den-en-toshi Line to Aobadai Station.
- From bus stop 2, take a bus to Kamoshida Danchi and get off at the last stop.
- It’s about 57 minutes from Yokohama Station.
Address: 414 Jike-cho, Aoba-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture
If You Want a Tranquil Park: Maioka Park
Maioka Furusato Village is a natural park that preserves the landscape of valleys, forests, and farmland. Similar to Jike Furusato Village. A stream runs through the park, making it perfect for a picnic. There are shops selling vegetables and Yokohama-grown pork nearby, and you can smell the cows from the nearby farms.
Within the park, there’s an old farmhouse that hosts various nature-related activities and events, such as rice planting.
How to Get There:
- Take the Yokohama Municipal Subway Blue Line to Maioka Station.
- Follow the walking path for about 25 minutes to reach the farmhouse area.
- Alternatively, you can take a bus from Totsuka Station.
- It’s about 40 minutes from Yokohama Station.
Address: 1764 Maioka-cho, Totsuka-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture
If You Want to Enjoy a Wide Park and Meet Horses: Negishi Forest Park
Built on the site of a former racecourse, this spacious park covers 19 hectares and is perfect for playing badminton, ball games, picnicking, or reading books under the sun. It’s also a famous cherry blossom viewing spot in spring.
In the back, there’s a pony center where you can interact with horses, which is sure to delight children.
How to Get There:
- Take the Keihin-Tohoku Line to Negishi Station or Yamate Station. It’s a 15-minute walk from either station.
- It’s about 25 minutes from Yokohama Station.
Address: Negishidai, Naka-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture
Note: BBQ is not allowed in any of these locations, so please be mindful of this rule.
I hope this helps! Enjoy your time in nature!
