7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Chigasaki

Chigasaki, a coastal city in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan, is a haven for digital nomads who enjoy the blend of a laid-back beach atmosphere and proximity to the vibrant Tokyo metropolis. While the city itself offers a peaceful environment for work and relaxation, weekends are a perfect time for exploration. From popular tourist spots to hidden gems, the area surrounding Chigasaki provides a variety of weekend getaway options. Here are seven destinations that cater to different tastes, whether you're looking for adventure, culture, or a quiet retreat.

Kamakura

Just a short train ride away from Chigasaki, Kamakura is a popular destination known for its historical significance and beautiful temples. As the former de facto capital of Japan, it's home to the iconic Great Buddha (Daibutsu), numerous Shinto shrines, and traditional tea houses. Hiking trails and sandy beaches offer a mix of outdoor activities, while the quaint shopping streets are perfect for finding unique souvenirs.

How to Get There: Kamakura is easily accessible by train from Chigasaki Station, with the trip taking approximately 20 minutes on the JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Hasedera Temple, which offers a stunning view of the coastal city and its lush gardens.

Where to Stay: The Kamakura Prince Hotel boasts ocean views and is conveniently located near popular attractions. For a more traditional experience, try a stay at one of the local ryokans (Japanese inns).

Where to Eat: Kamakura offers a variety of dining options, but for a taste of local cuisine, try the sweet potato soft serve at Kamakura Chacha-an or the savory Kamakura-style curry at Magokoro.

Hakone

Hakone is a mountainous area known for its hot springs, natural beauty, and views of Mount Fuji. It's a perfect spot for digital nomads looking to unwind in an onsen (hot spring bath) or explore the Hakone Open-Air Museum. The Hakone Ropeway offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area, including the volcanic Owakudani Valley where you can try the famous black eggs, boiled in the sulfurous waters.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Hakone from Chigasaki is by train, with a transfer at Odawara Station. The entire journey takes about 1.5 hours.

Travel Tip: Take a cruise on Lake Ashi on a replica pirate ship for a unique perspective of the region's natural beauty.

Where to Stay: Hakone has numerous ryokans with onsen facilities. The Hakone Ginyu offers private open-air baths with stunning views.

Where to Eat: For a memorable meal, visit the Hakone Gora Brewery & Grill, where you can enjoy craft beers and a fusion of Japanese and Western dishes.

Enoshima

Enoshima is a small island off the coast, connected to the mainland by a bridge. It's a great spot for beach lovers and those interested in marine life, with attractions like the Enoshima Aquarium. The island also features the Enoshima Shrine, a botanical garden, and the Iwaya Caves. The Enoshima Sea Candle lighthouse offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.

How to Get There: From Chigasaki, take the JR Tokaido Line to Fujisawa Station, then transfer to the Enoden Line to reach Enoshima. The journey takes about 40 minutes.

Travel Tip: Visit during low tide to explore the tidal pools around the island, which are teeming with marine life.

Where to Stay: Stay at the Enoshima Guest House 134 for a cozy and budget-friendly option, or opt for the luxurious Enoshima Hotel for a more upscale experience.

Where to Eat: Enjoy fresh seafood at Iroriya, known for its grilled fish and local dishes.

Nokogiriyama

For an off-the-beaten-path adventure, head to Nokogiriyama, or "Sawtooth Mountain," in Chiba Prefecture. This mountain offers a unique hiking experience with stunning views, a giant Buddha statue, and the "Hell Peek" viewpoint. The Nihon-ji Temple, located on the mountain, is home to over 1,500 arhat statues carved into the stone.

How to Get There: The journey from Chigasaki to Nokogiriyama involves a train ride to Kurihama, a ferry to Kanaya, and then a bus to the mountain. The trip takes around 2.5 hours.

Travel Tip: Make sure to take the Nokogiriyama Ropeway for an easier ascent and to enjoy the scenic views without the hike.

Where to Stay: There are limited accommodations near Nokogiriyama, but the nearby city of Kisarazu offers hotels like the Okura Akademia Park Hotel.

Where to Eat: Sample the local specialty, "nama-shirasu" (raw whitebait), at one of the seafood restaurants near the Kanaya Port.

Yokohama

Yokohama, Japan's second-largest city, is just a stone's throw from Chigasaki and offers a mix of modern attractions and cultural sites. The Minato Mirai district is known for its futuristic skyline, while the historic Yokohama Chinatown is the largest in Japan and offers an array of authentic Chinese cuisine. The Sankeien Garden is a tranquil spot for those seeking a peaceful retreat.

How to Get There: Yokohama is easily accessible by train from Chigasaki Station, with the trip taking about 40 minutes on the JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the Cup Noodles Museum, where you can create your own custom cup of instant ramen.

Where to Stay: The Yokohama Royal Park Hotel in the Landmark Tower offers luxurious accommodations with impressive city views.

Where to Eat: For a unique dining experience, visit the Yokohama Ramen Museum, where you can sample different regional styles of ramen under one roof.

Shimoda

Shimoda, located on the Izu Peninsula, is a coastal town with a rich history and beautiful beaches. It's known for its role in the opening of Japan to the West in the 19th century and offers a chance to learn about this pivotal period at the Shimoda History Museum. The town's white sand beaches, like Shirahama Beach, are perfect for surfing and sunbathing.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Shimoda from Chigasaki is by taking the JR Tokaido Line to Atami and then transferring to the Izu Kyuko Line. The journey takes about 2 hours.

Travel Tip: Visit Ryugu Park for its scenic coastal views and unique rock formations.

Where to Stay: The Shimoda Tokyu Hotel offers comfortable rooms with ocean views and is close to the beach.

Where to Eat: Try the local seafood delicacies at Sakanadonya, known for its fresh sashimi and sushi.

Kawazu

Kawazu is a lesser-known destination famous for its early-blooming Kawazu cherry trees, which flower in February and March. The Kawazu Nanadaru Waterfalls are a series of seven waterfalls set in a lush forest, offering a serene hiking experience. The town also has hot springs and is a great spot for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy nature.

How to Get There: From Chigasaki, take the JR Tokaido Line to Atami, then transfer to the Izu Kyuko Line to reach Kawazu. The trip takes around 2.5 hours.

Travel Tip: Time your visit to coincide with the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival if you're traveling in late winter or early spring.

Where to Stay: The Amagiso Ryokan offers traditional Japanese accommodations and an onsen experience near the waterfalls.

Where to Eat: Enjoy a meal at Kawazu Bagatelle Park Restaurant, which offers French-inspired cuisine with a Japanese twist and views of the surrounding gardens.