Itinerary for 3 day trip to Machida, Japan

Machida is a charming city located in the Kanagawa Prefecture, just a short train ride from Tokyo. It’s a great place to experience a mix of urban life and nature. Here’s a delightful 3-day itinerary that will help you soak in the best of Machida!

Day 1: Explore the City and Local Culture

Morning:

Breakfast at a Local Café: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café. Try a Japanese-style breakfast set with grilled fish, rice, and miso soup.
: After breakfast, head to this unique museum. It showcases a variety of graphic arts, including prints and illustrations. It’s a great way to appreciate local talent!

Afternoon:

Lunch at Machida Station: Grab a quick bite at one of the many eateries around Machida Station. You can find everything from ramen to sushi.
: After lunch, take a stroll to the . It’s a lovely park where you can interact with friendly squirrels and enjoy the greenery. Perfect for some cute photo ops!

Evening:

Dinner in the City Center: Head back to the city center for dinner. Try a local izakaya (Japanese pub) for a casual dining experience. Sample some yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and sake!
Night Walk at Machida’s Shopping Streets: After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the shopping streets. The area is beautifully lit at night, and you can enjoy some window shopping or grab a dessert from a local shop.

Day 2: Nature and Relaxation

Morning:

Breakfast at a Bakery: Start your day with fresh pastries from a local bakery. Japanese bakeries often have a delightful selection of sweet and savory options.
: Spend your morning at this beautiful park. It’s perfect for a peaceful walk or a picnic. Enjoy the seasonal flowers and maybe even catch a glimpse of local wildlife.

Afternoon:

Lunch at a Local Restaurant: Try a soba or udon restaurant for a hearty meal. These traditional Japanese noodles are a must-try!
Visit the : After lunch, visit this serene shrine dedicated to the deity of learning. The architecture is stunning, and the surrounding gardens are a lovely place to relax.

Evening:

Dinner at a Themed Restaurant: For a fun dining experience, check out a themed restaurant in Machida. Whether it’s a ninja-themed place or a retro diner, it’s sure to be memorable!
Catch a Movie or Live Performance: If you’re in the mood for entertainment, see if there’s a movie playing at a local cinema or a live performance at a nearby venue.

Day 3: Day Trip to Nearby Attractions

Morning:

Early Breakfast and Head to Hakone: Have an early breakfast and take a train to Hakone, which is about an hour away. It’s famous for its hot springs and beautiful views of Mount Fuji.
Visit the : This outdoor museum features stunning sculptures and art installations set against a backdrop of nature. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy art in a unique setting.

Afternoon:

Lunch in Hakone: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, perhaps trying some kaiseki (traditional multi-course meal) or a hot spring-cooked meal.
Cruise: After lunch, take a scenic boat cruise on . The views of Mount Fuji are breathtaking, and you can relax while enjoying the fresh air.

Evening:

Return to Machida: Head back to Machida in the late afternoon.
Final Dinner in Machida: For your last dinner, treat yourself to a nice meal at a sushi restaurant. Fresh sushi is always a great way to end your trip!
Relax at a Local Onsen: If you have time, unwind at a local onsen (hot spring). It’s a perfect way to relax after a busy day of exploring.

Tips:

Transportation: Get a Suica or Pasmo card for easy travel on trains and buses.
Language: While many people in Japan speak some English, learning a few basic Japanese phrases can enhance your experience.
Cash: Japan is still a cash-oriented society, so it’s good to have some yen on hand.

I hope this itinerary helps you have an amazing time in Machida! Enjoy your trip! 🌸✈️