Have you ever wondered, “Where exactly does Shonan begin and end?” or “Are Kamakura, Zushi, and Hayama also considered part of Shonan?”

Shonan is a well-known regional name commonly associated with the coastal areas along Sagami Bay in Kanagawa Prefecture. However, its geographical boundaries vary depending on administrative classifications and how the term is used in tourism.

In this article, we will explain the definition and geographical boundaries of the Shonan area, along with the unique characteristics and popular sightseeing spots of its seven cities and towns!

Definition of Shonan

Generally, “Shonan” is widely used to describe the coastal region along Sagami Bay in Kanagawa Prefecture, known for its beautiful beaches and relaxed seaside atmosphere.

However, there is no single, universally accepted boundary that defines the Shonan area for every purpose.

At “Shonan Chill Time,” we primarily cover seven cities and towns along the coast of Sagami Bay, from east to west: Hayama, Zushi, Kamakura, Fujisawa, Chigasaki, Hiratsuka, and Oiso.

Below, we will introduce the unique characteristics and attractions of each of these seven cities and towns!

Characteristics of Each City and Town

Hayama Town

Hayama Town is known for its rich yachting culture, beautiful natural coastline, and peaceful resort atmosphere. Recognized as one of Japan’s “100 Best Beaches,” Hayama is also known as the birthplace of yachting in Japan.

The town offers marine leisure facilities such as “Hayama Marina” and numerous scenic coastal spots, including Morito Beach, Isshiki Beach, and Chojagasaki.

On clear days, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Fuji and the Izu Peninsula. Relaxing at seaside cafes and restaurants is also highly recommended.

▼Check out our recommended spots in Hayama Town!
https://shonan-chilltime.com/category/hayama/

Zushi City

Zushi City is known for its thriving marine sports culture, including windsurfing, and its open, relaxed atmosphere where the beach and town are closely connected.

One of its most famous attractions is “Riviera Zushi Marina,” which offers an atmosphere reminiscent of an overseas resort destination.

With palm-lined streets, a yacht harbor, and ocean-view restaurants, visitors can enjoy a luxurious resort experience that feels far removed from everyday life.

Zushi Beach is also a popular destination for swimming and marine sports. Its convenient accessibility from central Tokyo makes it an attractive getaway for visitors.

▼Check out our recommended spots in Zushi City!
https://shonan-chilltime.com/category/zushi/

Kamakura City

Kamakura City is one of Japan’s most popular tourist destinations, where historic shrines and temples coexist with a beautiful coastline.

In addition to famous sightseeing spots such as Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine and Komachi Street, the city offers a wide variety of stylish cafes and restaurants, attracting numerous tourists throughout the year.

Along the coast, visitors can explore Yuigahama, Zaimokuza, and Shichirigahama beaches, enjoying both the historic charm of this ancient city and the beautiful seaside scenery that defines Shonan.

Among these beaches, Yuigahama Beach became the first beach in Japan and Asia to receive the international environmental certification “Blue Flag” in 2016 and has also been awarded the certification in 2026.

▼Check out our recommended spots in Kamakura City!
https://shonan-chilltime.com/category/kamakura/

Fujisawa City

Fujisawa City is home to Enoshima, one of Shonan’s most iconic tourist destinations, and is widely known for its beaches and marine sports.

The city features several popular coastal areas, including Katase Nishihama Beach, Katase Higashihama Beach, Kugenuma Beach, and Tsujido Beach. During summer, its beaches and seasonal beach houses attract large numbers of visitors.

Around Enoshima, visitors can enjoy a wide range of tourist attractions and restaurants, including the “Enoshima Aquarium,” making it a popular destination for families and couples.

Enoshima’s Shonan Port also has a rich Olympic history. It served as the venue for yachting events during the 1964 Tokyo Olympics and hosted sailing competitions during the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, which were held in 2021.

▼Check out our recommended spots in Fujisawa City!
https://shonan-chilltime.com/category/fujisawa/

Chigasaki City

Chigasaki City is a coastal town surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, where surfing culture and music have become deeply rooted in the local lifestyle.

One of its most famous attractions is “Southern Beach Chigasaki,” a popular destination not only during the summer swimming season but also throughout the year for seaside walks and scenic ocean views.

From the beach, visitors can admire Enoshima Island, Eboshi Rock, and, depending on the weather, Mount Fuji.

The coastline is also dotted with unique cafes and restaurants, offering visitors the opportunity to relax and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere that makes Shonan so special.

▼Check out our recommended spots in Chigasaki City!
https://shonan-chilltime.com/category/chigasaki/

Hiratsuka City

Hiratsuka City offers the best of both worlds, combining a lively urban center with an open and relaxing coastal environment.

Along Hiratsuka Beach, visitors can enjoy beach sports and seaside activities at “Shonan Bellmare Hiratsuka Beach Park.” The surrounding coastal area is also popular among surfing and fishing enthusiasts.

Around Hiratsuka Station, numerous restaurants and shopping facilities provide plenty of opportunities for dining and shopping.

The annual “Shonan Hiratsuka Tanabata Festival,” held every summer, is also one of the city’s most famous events.

▼Check out our recommended spots in Hiratsuka City!
https://shonan-chilltime.com/category/hiratsuka/

Oiso Town

Oiso Town is known for its rich history as one of Japan’s early seaside resort destinations and a former retreat for wealthy residents, as well as its beautiful natural coastal scenery.

The town offers popular summer attractions such as Oiso Beach and “Oiso Long Beach,” a seasonal leisure facility where visitors can enjoy swimming pools and summer activities.

At “Oiso Prince Hotel,” guests can also enjoy a relaxing resort stay, including hot springs and spa facilities overlooking Sagami Bay.

Oiso is also known as the “Birthplace of Shonan.” One of the town’s historical landmarks, Shigitatsuan, a traditional haikai poetry retreat, offers visitors an opportunity to learn about the origins of the name “Shonan.”

▼Check out our recommended spots in Oiso Town!
https://shonan-chilltime.com/category/oisomachi/

Stay Tuned with “Shonan Chill Time” – Your Go-To Guide for Shonan Events!

How was it?
Although the geographical boundaries of Shonan can vary depending on different interpretations, each area offers its own unique charm.

The seven cities and towns of Hayama, Zushi, Kamakura, Fujisawa, Chigasaki, Hiratsuka, and Oiso are filled with experiences unique to Shonan, including beautiful beaches, historic streets, delicious local cuisine, and exciting marine sports.

At “Shonan Chill Time,” we share a wide range of information about the Shonan area, including new openings, popular sightseeing spots, restaurants, and local events.

If you’re planning a trip to Shonan or looking for ideas for your next weekend getaway, be sure to check out our latest articles!

▼Looking for the best places to visit in Shonan? Check out our recommendations!
【2026年最新】湘南のおすすめデートスポット10選｜江ノ島・鎌倉・逗子など地元ライター厳選

You can also follow the Official Shonan Chill Time Twitter (X) for timely updates on the latest news and happenings in Shonan! We also share plenty of beautiful photos, so be sure to follow us and discover the charm of Shonan together!

End.

▼The Japanese version of this article is here!
>>「湘南」はどこからどこまで？範囲・定義と7市町の特徴をわかりやすく解説！