Varies by nationality; many get 90-day tourist visa on arrival. Check with Japanese embassy.

Is English widely spoken?

Limited; basic phrases help. Signs at stations often have English.

Can I use credit cards?

Major cards accepted at hotels and larger stores; cash needed for small shops and local eateries.

What is the Tanabata Festival?

A star festival in early July with colorful decorations, parades, and fireworks along the coast.

Are there good beaches?

Yes, Hiratsuka Beach is popular for swimming and surfing in summer. Lifeguards present.

How do I get to Mount Ōyama?

Take a bus from Hiratsuka Station to Ōyama Cable Car station, then hike or ride to the summit.

Is the city wheelchair accessible?

Moderately; major stations have elevators, but some older streets and temples may have steps.

Hiratsuka

CityKanagawa, Japan

Hiratsuka is a CITY in Kanagawa, Japan.

Hiratsuka, a coastal gem in Kanagawa, blends urban convenience with natural beauty. Stroll along the scenic Sagami Bay coastline, where the iconic Hiratsuka Tanabata Festival transforms the city into a vibrant tapestry of colors each summer. The nearby Mount Ōyama offers hiking trails with panoramic views, while the historic Hiratsuka Hachiman Shrine provides a serene escape. Local cuisine shines with fresh seafood from the bay, especially the famous shirasu (whitebait). The city's relaxed atmosphere, combined with easy access to Tokyo and Kamakura, makes it a perfect base for exploring the Shonan region. Whether you're catching waves at the beach or exploring traditional markets, Hiratsuka offers an authentic slice of Japanese coastal life.

Best time to visit Hiratsuka

Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer mild weather and clear skies. Summer (June-August) is hot and humid but perfect for beach activities and the Tanabata Festival (early July). Winter (December-February) is cool and less crowded, ideal for hiking Mount Ōyama with crisp views.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather: Mild 16-23°C, pleasant

Travel notes

Crowds: Moderate
Prices: Moderate

Autumn colors begin; good for hiking.

Know before you go

Getting there

NRT

Narita International Airport

International

100 km away

HND

Tokyo Haneda Airport

International

60 km away

TKY

Tokyo International (Haneda)

International

60 km away

Getting around

"Hiratsuka Station on the JR Tokaido Line connects to Tokyo (60 min) and Odawara (15 min). Local buses serve beaches and Mount Ōyama. Renting a bicycle is popular for exploring the coast. Taxis are available but expensive. Walking is pleasant in the compact city center."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

25 Mbps

Mobile data

Excellent

WiFi

Widely available in city centre and at cafes

Local SIM

Local SIM available at airport from $5

Stay safe

Overall

8/10

Very safe; occasional scams near tourist spots, but rare.

Night safety

7/10

Very safe; occasional scams near tourist spots, but rare.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

6/10

"Hiratsuka is very safe with low crime. Petty theft is rare but keep valuables secure at beaches. Earthquakes are possible; know evacuation routes. Typhoon season (Aug-Oct) may disrupt travel. Follow local warnings. At night, stick to well-lit areas; the city is generally safe for solo travelers."

Police

110

Ambulance/Fire

119

Entry and health

Health information

"Japan has excellent healthcare, but English-speaking staff may be limited. Travel insurance is strongly recommended. Tap water is safe to drink. Pharmacies (yakkyoku) are widely available; carry basic medications as some may require a prescription. For minor issues, visit a clinic (shinryojo). Major hospitals in nearby Odawara or Yokohama offer comprehensive care."

Culture

Local customs

"Remove shoes before entering homes and some traditional inns. Bow when greeting. Tipping is not practiced. Public bathing (onsen) requires washing before entering. Dress modestly at temples/shrines. Avoid eating while walking. Use both hands to receive business cards. Quiet on trains."

Japanese (official)AinuRyukyuanEnglishChineseKoreanPortugueseSpanishJapanese

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$5-10 | a cheap local meal costs ~$5-10

Hotels

$40-80 | budget hotels range $40-80/night

Local transport

$1 | local bus ride ~$1

Cost notes

Slightly cheaper than Tokyo; beachside dining can be pricier.

Timezone

Asia/Tokyo
Local time 03:55

More facts

Population

258,422

Type

City

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Hiracuka, Hiratsuka, Hiratuka, Hiratuka-chhi, Hiratuka-chhī, Khiracuka, hi ra suk a, hilasseuka si, hyratswka, hyratswka kanagawa, ping zhong, ping zhong shi, Хирацука, Хірацука, Ҳиратсука, هيراتسوكا, هیراتسوکا، کاناگاوا, ہیراتسوکا، کاناگاوا, ฮิระสึกะ, ჰირაცუკა, 平塚, 平塚市, 히라쓰카 시, 142034, 히라쓰카시, ひらつかし, Hiratsuka-shi, 平冢市, هيراتسوكا، كاناغاوا, ฮิรัตสึกะ

Major HubBeachHistoricFamily-FriendlyHikingFestival