Zama, Japan
Region: Kanagawa
Geographic Coordinates: 35.483300, 139.400000
Temperature Range: -10.0°C to 35.0°C (14°F to 95°F)
Climate: Seasonal.
Population: 130753
Language: Japanese
Zama is a city located in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan. It is situated about 50 kilometers southwest of Tokyo and has a population of approximately 129, 000 people. The city is known for its rich history, Beautiful natural scenery, And unique cultural attractions. One of the most popular tourist destinations in Zama is the Sagamiko Resort Pleasure Forest. This amusement park offers a variety of rides and attractions for visitors of all ages, Including roller coasters, Water slides, And a giant Ferris wheel that provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Another must-see attraction in Zama is the Tsurumaki Onsen hot springs. These natural hot springs are believed to have healing properties and offer visitors a relaxing way to unwind after a long day exploring the city. There are several hotels and ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) located near the hot springs where visitors can stay overnight. For those interested in history and culture, Zama has several museums worth visiting. The Kanagawa Prefectural Museum of Natural History features exhibits on local flora and fauna as well as dinosaur fossils discovered in the area.
The Sagamihara City Museum showcases artifacts from ancient Japanese civilizations such as pottery, Weapons, And clothing. Zama also has many beautiful parks where visitors can enjoy nature walks or picnics with family or friends. One such park is Sogo Park which features cherry blossom trees that bloom each spring attracting many tourists who come to see this stunning display of nature’s beauty. In addition to its natural beauty and cultural attractions, Zama also boasts excellent shopping opportunities with several malls offering everything from high-end fashion brands to traditional Japanese souvenirs at reasonable prices.
Overall, Zama offers something for everyone from thrill-seekers looking for adventure at an amusement park to history buffs interested in learning about ancient civilizations or those seeking relaxation at hot springs surrounded by breathtaking scenery – making it an ideal destination for travelers of all kinds.
Important Landmarks
- Sagamihara Housing Area: This is a popular attraction in Zama because it is home to many American military personnel and their families.
- Tsukuihama Beach: This beautiful beach offers stunning views of Mount Fuji and is an ideal place for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
- Yabitsu Pass: The Yabitsu Pass is a scenic mountain pass that provides breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
- Tsurumaki Onsen: This hot spring resort features several outdoor baths with stunning views of the mountains.
- Kanagawa Prefectural Lake Tsukui Shiroyama Park: This park has beautiful gardens, hiking trails, and stunning views of Lake Tsukui.
- Zama Castle Ruins: These ruins are all that remains of the once-great Zama Castle which was destroyed during the Meiji Restoration period.
- Machida Tenmangu Shrine: This historic shrine dates back to 1355 and is dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane who was known as the god of learning.
- Sanrio Puroland: This indoor theme park features rides, shows, and attractions based on popular Sanrio characters like Hello Kitty and My Melody.
Primary Industries
Zama, Japan’s Major Industries and Businesses
- The automotive industry: Zama is well-known for its production of automobiles and automotive parts. Nissan Motor Company has a manufacturing plant in Zama which contributes significantly to the local economy.
- The electronics industry: Companies like Sony and Toshiba have facilities located within the city. This sector plays an important role in contributing to the overall economic growth of Zama.
- The chemicals industry: Several chemical companies such as Nippon Kayaku Co., Ltd., which produces pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals, provide numerous employment opportunities for people living in or around Zama.
- The retail industry: Retail stores are abundant throughout the city with department stores, supermarkets, convenience stores and specialty shops catering to various needs of residents and visitors alike.
- The service sector: This sector plays an essential role in supporting other industries by providing necessary services such as restaurants, hotels, healthcare facilities and education institutions for both residents and visitors.
It is evident that these diverse sectors contribute significantly to making Zama a thriving economic hub within Japan.
Noteable History
- Zama, Japan is a small city located in Kanagawa Prefecture, with notable events and people associated with it.
- The Battle of Zama took place in 202 BCE between the Roman Republic under Scipio Africanus and the Carthaginian Empire under Hannibal Barca during the Second Punic War.
- During World War II, the US military established a base in Zama to support its operations in Japan. Today, Camp Zama remains an important military installation for the United States Army.
- Shigeo Nagashima was a legendary baseball player who played for the Yomiuri Giants from 1958 to 1974. He spent much of his childhood in Zama.
- Koji Yakusho is a famous Japanese actor who has appeared in numerous films and television shows throughout his career. He attended high school in Zama.
- Fumiko Hayashi is currently serving as mayor of Yokohama City, which includes parts of Kanagawa Prefecture including Zama city.
- Tadahiro Matsushita is a retired professional wrestler who competed under the name Takao Omori. He was born and raised in Zama City before pursuing his wrestling career.
- Toshiaki Kawada is another professional wrestler who came from Zama. He wrestled for All Japan Pro Wrestling promotion where he won Triple Crown Heavyweight Championship four times. He also won World Tag Team Championship six times.
Museums and Things To See
- Kanagawa Prefectural Museum of Cultural History
- Zama City Museum of Local History
- Zama Castle Ruins
- Kanae Hasegawa Memorial Hall
- Tsurumaki Onsen Hot Spring
- Sagamiko Pleasure Forest
- Mount Takao
- Showa no Mori Park
- Fujiko F Fujio Museum (Doraemon Museum)
Sports Teams
Zama Sports Teams
Zama, located in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan, is a relatively small city with around 130,000 people. Despite its size, there are several sports teams that are popular among locals and visitors.
1. Fujitsu Frontiers
One of the most successful American football teams in Japan’s history is the Fujitsu Frontiers. Founded in 1967, they have won several national championships and have a reputation for their strong defense and powerful offense.
2. Sagamihara Rise
The Sagamihara Rise basketball team was founded in 2016 as part of the B.League – Japan’s professional basketball league. Although they are a new team, they have gained popularity among local fans due to their exciting style of play.
3. Other Sports Clubs and Organizations
There are also other sports clubs and organizations based in Zama that cater to different interests such as soccer (football), baseball, volleyball etc.
Cultural Events
- Zama Summer Festival: This festival is held annually in August and features traditional Japanese music and dance performances.
- Kanagawa Prefectural Fireworks Display: Held every summer at Sagamiko Resort Pleasure Forest, this event showcases a spectacular fireworks display.
- Hina Doll Festival: Celebrated on March 3rd every year, this festival is dedicated to young girls and their dolls.
- Zama Cherry Blossom Festival: Held during the cherry blossom season in April, this festival features food stalls and live entertainment under the sakura trees.
- Tanabata Festival: Celebrated on July 7th every year, this festival is based on a romantic legend about two lovers separated by the Milky Way who are allowed to meet once a year on that day.
Note that due to COVID-19 restrictions some of these events may be cancelled or postponed until further notice; it’s always best to check with local authorities for updated information before attending any event or festival.
Cuisine
- Ramen: Zama is known for its delicious ramen, with many popular shops such as Ichiran and Menya Itto.
- Sushi: There are many sushi restaurants in Zama, including the popular Sushiro and Kura Sushi.
- Yakitori: Grilled chicken skewers are a favorite in Japan, and there are several yakitori restaurants in Zama such as Torikizoku.
- Izakaya: These Japanese-style pubs offer a variety of small dishes to share while drinking with friends. Popular izakayas in Zama include Watami and Tofuro.
- Tempura: Lightly battered and fried seafood or vegetables can be found at several tempura restaurants in Zama, including Tenfusa.
- Okonomiyaki: This savory pancake-like dish is a specialty of Hiroshima but can also be found at some restaurants in Zama such as Chibo Okonomiyaki.
- Curry rice: Japanese curry rice is a comfort food staple that can be enjoyed at many places around town, including CoCo Ichibanya.
- Tonkatsu: Breaded pork cutlets served with rice or noodles are another popular dish that can be found at Tonkatsu Wako or Katsukichi.
- Rice Bowls (Donburi): Donburi dishes like gyudon (beef bowl) or oyakodon (chicken bowl) are quick and filling meals that you’ll find at Yoshinoya restaurant chain across Japan.
- Zama Park is a spacious park that features numerous playgrounds, sports fields, and walking paths for visitors to enjoy.
- Kanagawa Prefectural Lake Sagami Park is a picturesque park that offers hiking trails, camping facilities, and water sports activities for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Sagamihara City Forest Park is a serene forested area with well-maintained hiking trails and picnic areas where visitors can relax and unwind.
- Zama Sports Center is an indoor sports facility that provides basketball courts, swimming pools, and fitness classes for those who prefer indoor activities.
- Zama City Gymnasium is a versatile gymnasium suitable for basketball, volleyball, and other sports enthusiasts.
- Sagamihara Green Golf Course offers golfers the opportunity to play in beautiful natural surroundings in the heart of Sagamihara city.
- Tsukuihama Beach is a popular summer destination where visitors can swim or sunbathe on its sandy beaches.
- Kana Garden Tennis Court is a public tennis court located in Kanagawa prefecture which provides tennis lovers the chance to play their favorite sport outdoors.
- Takaozan National Park offers hiking trails leading up to Mount Takao which boasts stunning autumn foliage views during fall season.
- Kanazawa Zoo houses many animals including lions, tigers, bears, giraffes etc., it also has an amusement park named Kanazawa Bunko attached to it making it an ideal destination for families with kids.