Shonandai (Hiratsuka City, Kanagawa Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Shonandai is a low-altitude hilly area in Hiratsuka City, Kanagawa Prefecture, and is a scenic spot on the outskirts of the city, equipped with observation decks and walking trails. It boasts a nearly 360-degree view of Sagami Bay, Enoshima, and even Mount Fuji in the distance, and visitors can enjoy seasonal scenery such as sunsets, night views, and spring cherry blossoms and rape blossoms. Originally used as a local lookout point, in recent years the area has been developed into a park, making it a popular spot for hiking, photography, and dates for locals and tourists alike.

Highlights

• Observation deck/panoramic viewFrom the observation deck, you can see Sagami Bay, Enoshima, and, if the weather is good, Mt. Fuji, making it a popular spot for evening and night views.
• Walking trails and hiking trails: Gentle hiking trails and walking paths are available, making it ideal for light hiking. It is also popular with families and those with pets.
• Flowers of the Four SeasonsYou can enjoy seasonal scenery such as cherry blossoms and rape blossoms in spring, fresh greenery from early summer to summer, and gentle autumn leaves in autumn.
• Photo spot: With a wide variety of views and subjects to photograph, many photographers visit to take pictures at sunset and at night.
• Nearby recreation: It's a great place for picnics, light exercise, and walks. The sea breeze is pleasant on sunny days.

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• Nearest station: JR Tokaido Main Line, Hiratsuka Station (major station in southern Kanto).
• bus: From Hiratsuka Station, there are local buses and sightseeing buses bound for Shonandai (we recommend checking the timetable and route in advance). There is a bit of walking from the bus stop to the observation deck.
• taxi: Approximately 15-30 minutes by taxi from Hiratsuka Station (depending on traffic conditions).
• car: Accessible via national and prefectural roads. There is a parking lot near the park, but it tends to fill up on holidays and in the evenings, so it's best to arrive early.
• * Bus routes, parking spaces, and observation deck opening hours may change, so please check the Hiratsuka City official website or local information in advance for the latest information.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• View and stroll only: 30 minutes to 1 hour
• Relaxed hiking, photography, and picnicking: 1-2 hours
• If you are waiting for the sunset or night view: 2 hours or more (including travel time)

Nearby spots

• Hiratsuka Beach/Shonan Hiratsuka Beach Park: Perfect for strolling along the seafront or for leisure activities during the swimming season.
• Oiso/Ninomiya area: The coastline, historical spots, and restaurants are scattered throughout.
• Enoshima and Kamakura: Tourist destinations accessible by car or train (easy to combine as a representative tourist route in the Shonan area).
• Komayama Park (surrounding hiking trails): There are also areas where you can enjoy continuous walking routes.

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• congestion: The parking lot tends to fill up quickly on weekends, public holidays, at sunset, during cherry blossom viewing, and during long weekends. We recommend using public transportation and arriving early.
• Clothing and equipment: Some sections of the trail are paved, but there are also slopes and unpaved sections. Please wear comfortable shoes and clothing appropriate for the weather.
• weather: The sea breeze is strong and there are large temperature differences, so please prepare wind protection and a jacket. Views of Mt. Fuji and other mountains are only possible on clear days.
• MannersPlease be considerate of your surroundings by taking your trash with you, refraining from smoking and making noise outside of designated areas, and not damaging nature or vegetation.
• safety：Please be careful of your step at night as there are dark areas. Please do not climb over the fences or engage in any dangerous activities around the observation deck.
• *For the latest opening hours, event information, and transportation information, please check official information such as Hiratsuka City Tourist Information.