Published date: May 1, 2025
Working Mom's Solo Retreat HafH Trip in Zushi-Hayama (Dormitory Stay)
Room Type Stayed
Some info has been automatically translated by AI.
Experience of the stay
About a year after giving birth, it had been two years since I freely traveled solo. My husband suggested, "Why not try a subscription travel retreat?" and thus my first HafH experience began.✨
I chose the "Hayama Umi no Hotel" for its good access from home, near the sea, and its relaxing atmosphere.
I arrived a bit earlier but was delighted by the stylish entrance reminiscent of a café, uplifting my spirits immediately. When I was a bit confused about the reception area, a staff member promptly greeted me with a smile. The café orders and hotel check-in appear to be handled at the same counter.
Since it was a hot day, I ordered a mango juice while waiting for check-in. There was also self-serve detox water available, which I enjoyed while refreshing myself.
Since it was Saturday, there was a diverse mix of guests at the hotel. Families with babies, groups of mom friends, senior reunion gatherings, foreign couples, and solo travelers were all present, enjoying their time in Hayama, creating a pleasant atmosphere.
The interior was decorated in whites and blues, creating a seaside vibe while using plenty of natural materials, resulting in a spacious, airy environment. Every corner had a picturesque, bright, and natural atmosphere.
The café space was quite spacious, fully equipped with electrical outlets, and the table layout had a comfortable distance, making it perfect for working on a computer. The lounge area meant for guests was slightly smaller but still had single-seater spaces, ensuring comfort for solo travelers.
I stayed in a bunk room (dormitory) as a solo woman. Located in the back lounge area, it includes shared amenities like a sink, microwave, and refrigerator. The sleeping area requires a key card for entry, ensuring security. Requests for female-only accommodations can be specified after booking, so it's better to contact them early.
The dorm beds are wooden, and the space is nothing short of spacious. An eco-bag, towels (large and small), hangers, and a small security box are provided. Dormitory guests must bring their loungewear as it’s not supplied (it can be rented for 500 yen).
Since common spaces and cafés are shared with the public, I thought some casual one-mile wear would be good for stepping outside.
For dinner, I picked up some food from a Seven Eleven a three-minute walk away. The hotel doesn't provide dinner, so I brought it back to the lounge space. I made warm soup and relaxed with some drinks. (No food or drinks are allowed in the dormitory area, so please note that.)
On the top floor, there’s a public bath for a refreshing experience, with the added luxury of enjoying Hayama’s sunset while savoring tranquility.
Back in the lounge, I worked on my computer a bit more, read a book, and watched some videos. I thoroughly enjoyed just "relaxing" without any agenda.
The female-only room also included restrooms and washbasins, which was a comforting point to have access to overnight. Amenities for a good night's sleep were provided, showing thoughtful consideration from the management.
I woke up early the next day and went back to the public bath. It alternates between genders, thus allowing for a different view.
Breakfast needed to be reserved separately when checking in. The salad and drinks were buffet-style, and there were consommé soup and corn flakes. The rice balls and sea lettuce miso soup were particularly delicious.
With checkout at 11 AM, I could take my time in the morning. Overall, it was a lovely stay where I could reset both physically and mentally till the very end.
Experiences during the trip
Day 1
Arrived at Zushi Station around noon and headed towards the sea. After walking through residential areas, I reached Zushi Beach where the "FREESTYLE FESTA ZUSHI 2025" windsurfing competition was happening. It was busier than I expected, so I rented a shared bike from HELLO CYCLING in search of a quieter spot. The roads were narrow, so I had to be quite careful in moving around. It might be a bit hard with large groups or small children.
Feeling hungry, I aimed for the local specialty, "Hayama Croquette," at Hayama Asahiya Beef Store. The town of Hayama has a rustic, local feel, without being overly touristy. While cycling, I spotted "TOKYO BAY FISHERMAN'S NOODLE," a ramen shop I had seen on TV before and had been curious about! I quickly returned the bike and entered the restaurant. The broth, enriched with shellfish stock, matched perfectly with the seaside town's vibe.
From there, I walked to Hayama Asahiya Beef Store. Locals and tourists were lining up, indicating its popularity. I purchased two Hayama Croquettes (200 yen) and a burger bun to hold the croquettes (87 yen). (Note: Cash only.)
Next, I bought drinks at the nearby "Motomachi Union" supermarket and headed to Morito Beach. Enjoyed a break while gazing at the sea, relishing the croquette burger with a beer. Eating while sitting on the sandy beach and looking at the sea was the best moment. I did get a bit anxious as a black kite tried to target my food, so it's better to hide your food from above, like in a bag.
Feeling full, I walked to Hayama Umi Hotel. The path was a bit challenging, but it was also a delightful experience to stroll leisurely while soaking in the town's atmosphere.
Right in front of the hotel, the rocky "Suwa Town Lower Beach" unfolds, showcasing a different scenery from Morito Beach. Children were playing on the rocks and looking for small creatures, creating a healing sight.
After checking in at the hotel, I took a walk to Hayama Marina. This is where I went to have the famous Hayama pudding from "Marlow." It was during the late afternoon when the wind picked up a bit, and though there was a table available on the terrace, I ordered pudding and café latte while watching the yachts. It was a wonderful touristy experience.
Day 2
~ After Checkout ~
I couldn't forget the lovely aroma of coffee beans from a shop I saw while cycling yesterday, so I headed to "Inuit Coffee Roaster." Surrounded by the freshly roasted aroma and the shop's toy poodle, I bought coffee beans for myself and as souvenirs. The staff were kind, and when I brewed it back home, I was genuinely impressed by how delicious it was.
I then went to "Morito Shrine." It was a dog day, and many families were visiting for a Shinto baby blessing. I recollected fondly as I recalled doing the same a year ago.
Behind the shrine, Morito Daimeijin's beach offered a mystical view with a Torii gate visible across the sea. The water was also clear, and a few children were playing around the rocky shores. There was also a monument for Yujiro Ishihara, which seems to be a tourist spot in Hayama.
I again rented a bike from HELLO CYCLING and headed towards "HAYAMA STATION." This is a complex facility like a roadside station filled with Hayama vegetables and local souvenirs. Hayama Asahiya Beef Store products are also sold there.
Instead of taking the seaside route back, I chose the inland route to Zushi Station. The road was wider and easier for cycling.
After returning the bike at a drop-off spot near Zushi City Hall, my journey was nearing its end.
It was just around lunchtime, so I popped into "Goseisui-an An-Biko" that I stumbled upon. I enjoyed tempura with soba noodles. The spiciness of the grated radish complemented the tempura well, and the soba's flavor was also robust. I was fully satisfied with the generous portion.
And thus, my solo retreat trip to Zushi and Hayama over two days came to a successful conclusion.
Conclusion
Two days spent alone in Hayama. With childbirth, childcare, house chores, and work, creating a "me-time" often gets pushed back. However, I realized that giving myself a small reward, even on a short trip like this, is very important. I would like to use HafH again and go for another spontaneous retreat!