side trip from tokyo

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Top 25 Easy Day Trips From Tokyo

See another side of Japan with these easy day trips from Tokyo.

From walking in the shadow of Mt. Fuji to gazing at extravagant temples and shrines, there are many interesting things to do and places to visit around Tokyo. If you’re looking for suggestions, here are our best 25 easy day trips from Tokyo — by train, bus or private car — including some underrated gems.

Pro tip: Before buying any train tickets, see if the JR Tokyo Wide Pass will save you some money.

The best Tokyo day trip for you may depend on the season. Check out our other articles for highlights across the year:

• Winter Day Trips From Tokyo
• Spring Day Trips from Tokyo
• Summer Day Trips From Tokyo
• Autumn Day Trips From Tokyo

Note that all prices listed below are estimates.

1. Kamakura

1 hour by train from Shinjuku Station ¥ 950 (one way) Recommended tour: A fun day out discovering Kamakura

One of the more popular spots, Kamakura is well known for its traditional Kyoto style, with temples and shrines galore. There are great light hiking options , as well as plenty of delicious local street foods to try and beaches to lie on. You can easily cover the area in a day, with hikes taking you to see the famed giant Buddha, as well as beautiful shrines with bamboo forests , teahouses, and more.

Pro tip: Go deeper into Kita Kamakura, with brunch and a guided temple tour .

For a full run-down of what’s on offer, see our Kamakura mega guide .

2. Enoshima

1 hour 10 minutes by train from Shinjuku Station ¥ 650 (one way) Recommended tour: Kamakura and Enoshima day tour

As one of the most popular Tokyo beach resorts (also see neighbor Kamakura), Enoshima offers sands to lie on and a stunning island to explore. You can walk to the island easily from the station and visit shrines, an observatory, and gardens, before cooling off in the caves on the other side. Be warned, there are quite a few steps, but you can also explore the island by boat.

Read up on the various Enoshima sightseeing options , as well as how to get there from Tokyo.

Pro tip: Combine Kamakura and Enoshima in an economical one-day bus tour from Tokyo .

1 hour 50 minutes by train from Asakusa Station 2-day Nikkō pass available : ¥ 2,120 (round trip, does not incl. limited express fare) Recommended tour: Guided Nikkō day tour from Tokyo

Easily extended into a weekend trip but great for a busy day too, Nikkō is famed for its stunning scenery and numerous temples and shrines. You can explore the cultural spots or escape into nature, such as the nearby waterfall or lake. Make sure to visit the elegant Tōshōgū Shrine , dedicated to the founding ruler of the Tokugawa Shogunate, Tokugawa Ieyasu.

See our Nikkō sightseeing guide for more info on what to do there, and our Nikkō transport guide for the best ways to get there from Tokyo.

1 hour 30 minutes by train from Shinjuku Station ¥ 2,470 (one way) Recommended tour: Mt Fuji and Hakone 1-Day Bus Tour Return by Bullet Train

Home to hot springs galore, onsen eggs, mountains, and teahouses, Hakone is one of the most popular day trips from Tokyo. Perfect for a nature-based escape, it has  three great hiking trails , as well as gondolas to volcanic valleys and pirate ships that traverse a beautiful lake. There are over a dozen museums in the area so you can take your pick, from wandering around the Hakone Open Air Museum to Impressionist collections at the Pola Museum . It’s also a great place for Evangelion fans to see their favorite spots from the anime. You may need more than a day in Hakone to experience everything.

Read more about the things you can get up to in Hakone and other options to get there in our full Hakone guide and Hakone day trip itinerary .

5. Kawaguchiko

2 hours by train or bus from Shinjuku Station From ¥ 2,200 (one way) Recommended tour: Mt Fuji Day Trip with Private English Speaking Driver

Mount Fuji is probably pretty high on your Japan list, and unless you’re climbing it , a view of the world-famous volcano is hard to beat. Enter Kawaguchiko. Here you can choose from views across fields of moss phlox , clear lakes, or lavender — in fact, there aren’t many places that won’t have Mt. Fuji somewhere in the background. The most iconic of these can be found featuring the Chūreitō Pagoda at Arakurayama Sengen Park, or on top of a rollercoaster at Fuji Q Highland .

With annual flower festivals, plenty of museums and nature spots, onsen, and more, Kawaguchiko is an easy day trip from Tokyo with lots to choose from.

Take a look at our full Kawaguchiko day trip guide for all the info, especially on how to get there: highway buses may be a better option than trains for some visitors.

Pro tip: This Mt. Fuji day trip tour , which includes a visit to the fifth station of Mount Fuji, plus a ride on the Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway and a stop-off at Lake Kawaguchi, for ¥ 11,900 , is a good-value way to see the sights.

30 minutes by train from Ikebukuro Station ¥ 490 (one way)

Nicknamed Little Edo, Kawagoe is a charming town that has preserved the Edo feel with traditional buildings and plenty of great food. A 15- to 30-minute walk from Kawagoe Station, Kurazukuri Street is lined with preserved warehouse buildings characterized by clay walls and tiles. There are over 200 in the surrounding area and many have been turned into cafes and restaurants. There are plenty of traditional (and reasonable) lunch sets, with the local specialty being eel.

Editor’s note: Eel (unagi) is endangered , so you may want to think twice before ordering it.

There is also a whole street dedicated to sweets, in Kawagoe. If you go on the 18th of the month, you’ll see plenty of kimono-wearers (and can wear one yourself if you like), as discounts are given to those sporting the traditional outfits.

See if this is the day trip for you with our mega Kawagoe guide .

7. Mount Takao

55 minutes by train from Shinjuku Station ¥ 430 (one way) Recommended tour: Full Day Hiking Tour at Mt.Takao including Hot Spring

Easy to get to, fun to hike, and home to a monkey park, Takao is a brilliant day trip for hikers and is only an hour from Tokyo. There is the lovely Yakuoin Temple around halfway up the mountain, with a creepy bird-faced Tengu standing guard. Once you reach the top, there are amazing panoramic views of Tokyo and Mt. Fuji to enjoy, as well as a wild plant garden and the aforementioned monkey park. Check out our guide to hiking routes near Tokyo, including Takao .

For more details on Takao, how to get there, and what to do once you’ve arrived, check out our full Mount Takao guide .

8. Odawara City

1 hour 30 minutes by train from Shinjuku Station ¥ 910 (one way)

See one of the closest castle keeps to Tokyo. Odawara is a great day trip with a beautiful castle carefully restored from Edo-period drawings. You can also enjoy the fishing port for a slap-up lunch of freshly caught fish in a donburi (rice-bowl dish) at the Odawara Fish Market Den . Stroll in the relaxing Tsujimura Botanical Gardens to round off your afternoon before heading back to the big city.

Read about more castles near Tokyo .

Pro tip: Let a knowledgeable guide show you the sights, and then sit down to dinner with a geisha as part of a special Odawara tour .

9. Ibaraki’s Ushiku Daibutsu

1 hour 30 minutes by train and bus from Tokyo Station ¥ 1,690 (one way)

An unusual day trip takes you to see the second largest Buddha in the world — and to explore its rather surreal insides. Situated in Ibaraki , the statue stands as a perfect excuse for a day in the country, plus a picnic. You can venture inside the Buddha to practice calligraphy , see 3,000 golden Buddhas, have your shrine book signed, and enjoy views from the observation deck. The surrounding gardens have a petting zoo, koi pond, and flower displays, which change with the season.

Have a look at the full Ushiku Daibutsu article if you fancy scaling the beast.

10. Chichibu

1 hour 20 minutes by train from Ikebukuro Station ¥ 1,700 (one way)

Known mainly for its shiba-zakura festival in spring, Chichibu is a small-ish city in the west of Saitama that’s very underrated. Originally an industrial town, Chichibu is moving more toward tourism, and with its incredible mountains, that shouldn’t be a difficult transition.

There are plenty of shrines and temples to visit, as well as a pilgrimage route featuring 34 Buddhist temples. Chichibu has long had a reputation for meisen , a special silk produced only in the town and highly lauded in Edo times. You can still visit the Meisenkan to see original looms and purchase some locally made silk.

11. Kawasaki

15 minutes by train from Tokyo Station ¥ 320 (one way)

Smaller and not as well known as Kanagawa Prefecture largest city ( Yokohama ), Kawasaki is still a lovely location with plenty to explore. While it might be best known for a certain festival , Kawasaki has other attractions, including the rather massive Daishi Temple , the Doraemon Museum , and the Japan Open-Air Folk House Museum to stroll around (known as the Nihon Minkaen). Unfortunately, Kawasaki’s once-famous dystopian warehouse amusement arcade  has long since closed.

12. Takasaki

1 hour 45 minutes by train from Shinjuku Station ¥ 1,980 (one way)

Takasaki is a laid-back city in Gunma . It is the home of Daruma — the angry-faced figures you will no doubt have seen on your travels, who bring good luck in accomplishing goals. A large majority of them are made here and you can find plenty for sale as souvenirs. There’s also the Takasaki Daruma Ichi, a market full of Daruma held on January 6 and 7.

You can visit the Jigenin Temple complex to see Daruma of every shape and size, which also happens to be near one of the biggest Kannon statues in Japan. The White-Robed Kannon stands at 40 m tall and you can enjoy views from the top for ¥ 300 . Combine that with a walk along the traditional Ishiharamachi Shopping Street and you’ll have a grand day out!

1 hour 40 minutes by train from Tokyo Station ¥ 1,980 (one way)

Atami is a hot-spring resort and a brilliant day trip from Tokyo — it has plenty of unusual attractions to keep you entertained. As well as soaking in salt-water hot springs, lazing on the beach, and enjoying the views, you can also visit a fake castle, which houses displays about real castles, enjoy the trick-art museum, and even get the gondola up to the sex museum , aka Treasure House (that actually makes it weirder?).

Plus, there is the excellent MOA Museum of Art with a mixture of Eastern and Western pieces, including work by Monet, Rembrandt, and Ogata Korin. Atami is also a good destination for divers and plum blossom lovers .

Check out our full day-trip guide to Atami and explore other nearby Izu spots , too.

Pro tip: For the non-Cheapo in a hurry, you can take the Shinkansen to Atami and slim the journey time down to 40 minutes.

14. Mt. Nokogiri

2 hours 5 minutes by train from Tokyo Station ¥ 1,980 (one way) Idea: Hike Mt. Nokogiri with a guide

For a real escape into nature, Nokogiriyama (aka Sawtooth Mountain) is an amazing hike filled with quarry drops, stunning views and plenty of Buddhas. The Nihonji Temple complex is stretched out across the mountaintop and has lots to explore. From the largest cliff-carved Buddha to a 30-meter Goddess of Mercy with 1500 (mostly decapitated) arhat in between, you’ll be happily distracted as you clamber up the stairs carved into the mountain. The famous View to Hell is really incredible, both to look at and enjoy yourself, and is right by the Goddess of Mercy, which might allay some vertigo fears.

Check out our guide to getting to hell and back .

15. Okutama

2 hours by train from Shinjuku Station ¥ 1,110 (one way)

A beautiful haven filled with mountains, rivers, waterfalls, and plenty more — Okutama is perfect for a long weekend or a quick escape. There are full-day hiking trails like this one , which takes you across three mountains, or you can try some of the more relaxed wanderings in the valleys. The upper reaches of the Tama River are a brilliant place to relax away from the sweltering city heat in summer and also offer a wide range of water sports, like rafting . You can also visit Nippara Cave —the longest in the Kanto region.

16. Misaki Port Town and Jogashima Island

1 hour 40 minutes by train and bus from Shinagawa Station ¥ 1,090 (one way)

If you really want to escape, there’s nowhere better than an island to really feel like you’ve put some distance between you and Tokyo. On the Miura coast of Kanagawa, the small fishing town of Misaki (known as Japan’s “tuna town”) has its own fish market early in the morning and plenty of fresh fish to fill up on too. The official market finishes at 9 a.m., but most stalls remain open till late afternoon.

Feeling fancy? You can snag yourself a luxury overnight stay in Miura , complete with your own private sushi chef (it’s not as pricey as it sounds).

Jogashima Island is connected to Misaki Town and is rocky with some swimming spots, plus a hiking trail that takes you all the way around — a distance of about 3–4 km. If that seems like too much work, get off early at Miura-kaigan Station and head to Miura Beach or visit the early-blooming cherry blossom festival in March.

Our Miura day trip guide  has more details on the peninsula.

17. Yokohama

25 minutes by train from Tokyo Station ¥ 490 (one way)

The second biggest city in Japan with over 3 million people, Yokohama has plenty to keep you entertained if you’re after a city break from your city break. With stunning night views across the Minato Mirai waterfront area, not one but two ramen museums (the  Cup Noodle Museum  and the  Shin-Yokohama Raumen Museum ), an amazing  art scene , the beautiful  Sankei-en Gardens  and a massive  Chinatown , you can have a brilliantly busy day out in a more relaxed city.

Check out our sample itinerary for ideas on how to spend a day in Yokohama .

1 hour 5 minutes by train from Ueno Station ¥ 3,890 (one way)

The capital city of nearby Ibaraki Prefecture, Mito was once the stronghold of the Mito clan in the Edo period. It is now most famous for the stunning Kairaku-en Gardens , which are one of the top three gardens in the country.

The gardens were designed by Tokugawa Nariaki, the ninth feudal lord of the clan, as one of the first public gardens (even though it was only for samurai level and above). Regular buses run from the station to the gardens and you can also enjoy the incredibly modern Art Tower and the Mito City Museum .

For a more nature-based day out, you could visit Lake Senba and cycle around as there are bike rental places nearby. If you’re there in spring, there’s a delightful plum festival .

19. Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea

15 minutes by train from Tokyo Station ¥ 230 (one way)

Among the more unique Disney resorts, Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea are markedly different from the others dotted across the world.

Aside from just enjoying all the usual rides and Disney stuff, you can visit the only DisneySea , try the variety of popcorn flavors, and enjoy all the matching costumes (and this time we mean the guests, not the characters). These two parks are (we’re told) the only ones in the world not wholly owned by Disney (although they do have creative control), so it is a great chance to see a Japanese twist on classics — although don’t worry, nothing key has been altered!

If you’re keen to head to the fun straight from the airport, check out our Narita to Disney guide . If you want pointers to good hotels in the area, check out our Disney accommodation guide , and here are some tips for saving money at Disney .

Pro tip: Pre-book your Tokyo Disney Resort tickets online , for ease of entry.

20. Nagatoro and the Arakawa River

2 hours 15 minutes by train from Shinjuku Station ¥ 1,950 (one way)

Nagatoro arguably offers some of the most stunning, unspoiled nature in all of Japan, as well as the chance to get involved. You can enjoy a riverboat tour through some surprisingly rapid waters, with over 200,000 visitors trying it every year. If you like a little danger, you can try white water rafting or paragliding, and if you don’t, there’s a riverside hiking trail too.

The small town is home to Hodosan Mountain Shrine and Iwadatami shopping street, which is filled with local produce. There’s an occasional steam train, the “ Paleo Express ” running on the Chichibu Railway, which stops for a while and lets off steam at Nagatoro. Remember to try the local specialty of walnuts and sun-dried tomatoes, as well as locally made soba and udon.

21. Chiba City

40 minutes by train from Tokyo Station ¥ 660 (one way)

One of the closest day trips from Tokyo, Chiba City is packed with all things traditional as well as some amazing modern creations too. The castle is a folk museum with plenty to learn, and Chiba Shrine is not to be missed. You can enjoy some great art at the Hoki Museum , which focuses on realism and has a variety of works. There is also the Chiba Museum of Art and the Science Museum , so no one is left wanting on the museum front.

To get around the city, you can ride the world’s longest-suspended monorail which feels wrong, but is definitely safe. One of the most visited spots is the Chiba Port Tower, which was built to commemorate the population reaching 5 million in the 1980s, and offers a 360-degree view of the city and its surroundings. There are numerous parks and even a zoo complete with pandas — so you can balance your day perfectly.

22. Katsunuma

2 hours 10 minutes by train from Shinjuku Station ¥ 1,980 (one way)

Fans of wine, look no further. Katsunuma is one of the top three wine producers in the country and is only a stone’s throw away in nearby Yamanashi Prefecture . Despite the humidity, wine has been successfully produced in Japan since the Meiji Period (with Emperor Meiji being a great fan himself). It does require a slightly different procedure compared to grapes grown in less humid countries, but is no less delicious!

With plenty of wineries nearby, you can enjoy unlimited tastings like the coin-operated wine machines from ¥ 100 at Budo no Oka , or just enjoy the hospitality of the different wineries on your route — although purchasing is recommended eventually. Along with the grapes, the area produces plenty of fresh fruit and veg, and you can easily pick up some delicious treats for dinner before heading home.

23. Shuzenji Onsen

2 hours by train from Tokyo Station ¥ 4,640 (one way)

Grab a rickshaw, rent a kimono, and bask in the tranquility of this sleepy onsen town. Shuzenji Onsen is known for its crimson foliage in autumn , when many of the already beautiful local sights get a dust of gold. Here you’ll find one of the oldest hot spring baths in Izu, Tokko no Yu (look, don’t touch); a bamboo grove down a narrow path; a vermillion “lovers” bridge; and Shuzenji Temple, which often holds events throughout the year.

You can take the Odoriko train directly to Shuzenji Station from Tokyo, but the journey is even quicker — around 1 hour 30 minutes — if you grab the Shinkansen from Tokyo Station and change to the Izuhakone Tetsudo-Sunzu Line at Mishima Station. A special bus liner for ¥ 2,000 operates during the autumn season.

24. Jōgasaki Coast

1 hour 50 minutes by train and bus from Tokyo Station ¥ 4,480 (one way)

This jagged coastal walk in Izu is for those who like getting out into nature. Its scenic ocean views, lighthouse, and suspension bridges show the rugged side of Japan.

Get off at Jōgasaki-Kaigan Station and walk around 20 to 30 minutes to the start of the Jogasaki Picnical Course. You can then follow the coast to Izu Oceanic Park and end by getting a bus to Izu-Kōgen Station, where you can head back to Tokyo. If you are feeling adventurous, you could extend your hike along the coast or grab a 30-minute bus (Bus No. 108) from Izu Oceanic Park to extinct volcano Mt. Omuro .

Consider spending more than a day in the Izu Peninsula and see what else it has to offer.

25. Ashikaga City

1 hour 30 minutes by train from Asakusa Station ¥ 2,050 (one way)

Ashikaga City in Tochigi Prefecture is one of those cities that exists out of most visitors’ realm of knowledge, but it shouldn’t be overlooked. The best time to visit is in spring, when the flower festivals at Ashikaga Flower Park are in full swing (see e.g. the Ashikaga Great Wisteria Festival ), but the park also puts on a great illumination show in winter. The city also has Ashikaga Gakkō, Japan’s first organized school that includes an idyllic Japanese garden.

For a full look at what to do and how to get there, see our day trip to Ashikaga City guide .

Watch our video for 5 of the top Tokyo day trips -->

First published in July 2017. Last updated in March 2024, by Alex Ziminski. All information is subject to change, including prices.

閱讀中文版本: 25個精選東京近郊一日遊

• Kamakura Station
• Great Buddha of Kamakura
• Enoshima Shrine
• Kawagoe Station
• Kawaguchiko Station
• Chiba Castle (Chiba City Folk Museum)
• Odawara Castle
• Kawasaki Daishi
• Tsujimura Botanical Gardens
• Fujiko F. Fujio Museum (Doraemon Museum)
• Japan Open-Air Folk House Museum (Nihon Minkaen)
• Chiba Shrine
• Hoki Museum
• Chiba City Museum of Art
• Chiba City Museum of Science
• Restaurants
• Odawara Fish Market Den
• Bullet train
• Hot springs
• Sightseeing

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13 best day trips for a weekend getaway from Tokyo

Find some of Japan’s most beautiful temples, hiking trails and nature attractions no more than a few hours from Tokyo

It’s true that Tokyo really does have everything, from the best restaurants in the world to endless shopping and even lush forest within the city limits. It’s way too easy to spend a whole vacation in the heart of central Tokyo. However, Japan has much more to offer than just its capital city.

Get out of the city for a day (or longer, if you have time) and head south to Kanagawa hot springs, north to Tochigi for traditional shrines, or out to Yamanashi for postcard perfect views of Mt Fuji . Tokyo might have captured your heart, but these day trips will fully cement your love of Japan.  

If you're looking for a specific kind of day trip, here are the best autumn leaves destinations and art destinations near Tokyo .

Get out of town

Hakone, Kanagawa prefecture

The mountain of Hakone lies about 90 minutes by train from Tokyo, which makes it a popular day trip or weekend getaway from the capital. It has had a long and illustrious history as a hot spring town – its name even appears in Edo-era (1603-1868) rankings of Japan’s best onsen. But Hakone is about much more than just bathing. It’s got everything from superb art museums to an active volcano – as well as a jaw-dropping view of Mt Fuji on clear days.

Getting there: The Hakone Freepass includes unlimited rides on the Hakone Tozan Railway, the ropeway, the Lake Ashi pirate ship and all other major forms of transportation in the area. A two-day pass, which includes a return train ride from Shinjuku, costs ¥6,100 (¥1,100 for children).

Kawagoe, Saitama prefecture

Also known as Koedo or Little Edo, Kawagoe is an Edo period (1603-1867) castle town that's kept its old-fashioned atmosphere through well-preserved traditional streets and buildings. 

Kurazukuri Street is a must-visit as many of the old buildings and warehouses have been converted into quaint shops and restaurants. You'll know you've reached the area when you see the Toki no Kane bell tower – it's an unmissable 16 metres tall. The bell rings four times a day at 6am, 12noon, 3pm and 6pm. 

A short walk from the town's main street is Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine, which hosts many festivals throughout the year. In summer, this so-called 'love shrine' hosts a wind chime festival where you can stroll under a tunnel of tinkling furin  chimes. Come spring, the river behind the shrine is flanked with cherry blossoms and you can even take a boat ride beneath the flowers.

Getting there: Kawagoe is approximately 30 minutes from Ikebukuro Station on the Tobu Tojo line. You can also get there from Shinjuku in about an hour on the Seibu Shinjuku line. The two nearest stations are Hon-Kawagoe and Kawagoe.

Enoshima, Kanagawa prefecture

• Things to do

Travel down to the Kanagawa coast and you’ll find the small but beautiful Enoshima. The hilly island lies off the Shonan coast in western Kanagawa, and is connected to the mainland by a bridge that's open to both vehicles and pedestrians.

Enoshima is one of the most popular islands nearest to Tokyo. You’ll find a number of cultural monuments, quaint cafés and sightseeing attractions, more than enough to fuel a day trip. When the weather’s clear, you can even see Mt Fuji in the distance. 

Getting there: The Enoshima-Kamakura Freepass  includes a round-trip ticket on the Odakyu line from Shinjuku to Katase-Enoshima Station, which takes about 80 minutes one way. You also get unlimited rides on the Enoden line between Fujisawa and Kamakura stations for a bit of extended sightseeing in the area. The pass costs ¥1,640 for adults and ¥430 for children. It's a 12-minute walk from Katase-Enoshima Station to the island.

Kurkku Fields, Kisarazu, Chiba prefecture

Sustainability, art, eco-friendly farmland and the rolling hills of the inaka (countryside) –  Kurkku Fields really does have it all. Located in Kisarazu, Chiba prefecture, Kurkku Fields is a 74-acre sustainable wonderland with the goal of reconnecting busy Tokyoites with nature by introducing them to farming, open nature and even eco-friendly energy in the form of solar panels and a biogeo water purification system. The venue’s farm-to-table restaurant, Kurkku Fields Dining, serves vegetables and herbs grown in the edible garden, eggs and fresh cheese from the dairy farm, and wood-fired pizzas, all made with natural, local ingredients.

Stop by the art galleries, which boast art by Anish Kapoor, Fabrice Hybert, Camille Henrot and Yayoi Kusama – including one of her famous Infinity Rooms. Don’t forget to pick up some fresh charcuterie, cheese and delicate chiffon cake for your city pals. 

Getting there: The best way to access Kurkku Fields is by highway bus from Tokyo Station or Yokohama Station. For more information on access via car or train, see the  website . 

Nikko, Tochigi prefecture

With mountains, hiking trails, monkeys and shrines, at its heart, Nikko is pure traditional Japan. A popular day trip for both Tokyo locals and international tourists, Nikko is best known for the grand Toshogu Shrine and its opulent decorations of carved wood and gold, including three famous wise monkeys representing the principle of ‘see no evil, hear no evil, say no evil’. 

While Toshogu is surely the highlight of the trip, Nikko is also known for forested hiking trails, which are especially picturesque in autumn foliage. There’s also Shinkyo Bridge, painted vermillion and flanked by mountains and temples, and the 75-metre tall Kirifuri waterfall dramatically tumbling down a mountain. 

Getting there: The only direct access is on the limited express Nikko train from Shinjuku station to Tobu Nikko Station. You can also take the JR Tohoku Shinkansen from Tokyo and Ueno stations with a transfer at Utsunomiya Station for the JR Nikko line. Or, from Asakusa, take the Limited Express Spacia (Kegon line) from Tobu Asakusa Station to Tobu Nikko Station. 

Kamakura, Kanagawa prefecture

This small coastal town is often referred to as the Kyoto of Eastern Japan for its multitude of temples, shrines and historical monuments. It was the country’s political capital during the Kamakura shogunate (1185–1333) and there’s plenty to do and see here. Top of the list should be a visit to the Great Buddha of Kamakura (Kamakura Daibutsu). This towering bronze statue of the celestial Buddha is the second tallest in Japan and stands at 13.35m. Originally cast in 1252, the Buddha has been peacefully watching over its visitors since 1495.

If you have a little more time, pay a visit to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, Kamakura’s largest Shinto shrine. You can reach it via a long, wide approach that leads from Kamakura’s waterfront through the city centre, with multiple torii gates along the way. The grounds include the main hall, a museum and many secondary shrines as well as beautiful ponds and gardens. Look out for a horseback archery display during the Reitai-sai Festival in mid-September performed along the main approach.

Getting there: Kamakura is less than an hour from Tokyo via the JR Yokosuka or Shonan-Shinjuku line from Shinjuku Station. The cheapest but slowest route (90 minutes) is via the Enoshima Kamakura Free Pass (¥1,640), which provides a round trip from Shinjuku Station to Kamakura, as well as unlimited use of the Enoden line for the day.

Lake Kawaguchiko, Yamanashi prefecture

One of the Fuji Five Lakes, Lake Kawaguchiko is where you’ll get the best view (and perfect Instagram shots) of Mt Fuji. Filled with hot springs, ryokan (Japanese inns) and tourist attractions such as the Fuji-Q Highland theme park, there’s so much to do around the lake you might as well book a weekend trip.

The best time to view good ol’ Fuji-san is in April when the cherry blossoms bloom, November when maple leaves turn vermillion, or in winter when the dry air makes for a picture-perfect, cloud-free view of the snow-capped mountain. Hint: the best photo spot is along the northeastern shore of Lake Kawaguchiko, next to the Kawaguchiko Music Forest. 

Getting there: Lake Kawaguchi is accessible by express bus (from Shinjuku, Shibuya and Tokyo stations, about two to two and a half hours) and express train (from Shinjuku station, take the JR Chuo line to Otsuki Station, transfer to Fujikyu Railway and get off at Kawaguchiko Station. The whole journey takes about two hours).

Chiba City, Chiba prefecture

Most visitors to Tokyo only set foot in Chiba when they disembark the aeroplane. However, Chiba has much more to offer than just Narita Airport – and Chiba City has something for everyone. Art lover? Stop by the Chiba City Museum of Art to see ukiyo-e and traditional Japanese ink paintings. Need to entertain the kids? The Chiba Zoological Park has a wide variety of animals, including red pandas, giraffes and penguins. History buff? The Chiba City Folk Museum is housed in a replica of the Inohana Castle and is dedicated to the history of Chiba City. 

Getting there: From Tokyo Station, take the JR Sobu line and you'll reach Chiba City in 40 minutes.

Mt Jinba, Tokyo & Kanagawa prefectures

A crowd-free alternative to Mt Takao is Mt Jinba, located on the border of western Tokyo and Kanagawa. The hike to the top is better suited for trekkers looking for an advanced course: at 857m, Mt Jinba is taller and has a better variety of trails than Mt Takao’s more predictable, not to mention shorter, courses.

If you’re really looking to get a workout, you can always hike up Mt Takao, veer off to Mt Jinba, snap a quick pic of Mt Fuji and the odd-looking horse statue at the peak, then head down Mt Jinba and reward yourself with fresh soba noodles and beer. Don’t worry, hiking paths are clearly marked and the majority of the signs are in English. 

Getting there: From Shinjuku Station, take the Keio or Chuo line to Takao Station, then hop on the bus towards Jinba Kogenshita and get off at the last stop.

Yokohama, Kanagawa prefecture

If you want to head out of Tokyo but don’t want to spend too much time on the train, Yokohama is the perfect choice. Just down south in Tokyo’s neighbouring prefecture Kanagawa, Yokohama is known for its oceanside views and delicious Chinese food in Motomachi-Chukagai, also known as Chinatown . The area can be a bit kitschy – expect a lot of vermillion and pandas – but remember, you’re there for the food. Wear your elastic pants and indulge at an all-you-can-eat restaurant, or wander the town and taste test street food – xiaolongbao, char siu bao, shu mai and bubble tea – it’s completely okay to walk and eat here. 

After indulging, walk off your meal at the nearby Yamashita Park with breezy views of the Port of Yokohama, or do some shopping at the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse . To finish off the day, catch the sunset at the top of the Cosmo Clock 21 Ferris Wheel, once the world’s tallest Ferris wheel at 107.5m. 

Getting there: Yokohama is easily accessible from Tokyo. The Tokyu Toyoko, JR Tokaido, JR Yokosuka and JR Keihin-Tohoku lines connect central Tokyo to Yokohama in approximately 30 minutes. 

Karuizawa, Nagano prefecture

Nestled at the foot of Mount Asama, the most active volcano in Honshu, lies the upmarket resort town of Karuizawa. Many wealthier Tokyoites own second homes here. Start your day at Karuizawa Ginza in the old part of the town, with its traditional shops, cafés, restaurants and stalls selling locally-produced jams and honey. Serious shoppers searching for serious discounts should head to the Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza near the train station. This discount shopping outlet is home to over 200 stores set in a sprawling and beautifully landscaped area – great for kids to run wild while you splash the cash.

When your credit cards scream for mercy, escape to the open-air Tombo-no-yu bath house for a peaceful soak. Finish off your day at Harunire Terrace and order yourself a refreshing pint of the locally-brewed Yona Yona ale.

Getting there: Karuizawa is just over an hour from Tokyo on the Hokuriku Shinkansen. Get the JR Tokyo Wide Pass (¥10,180) for unlimited travel on all JR trains in the Kanto area over three consecutive days (available to foreign residents of Japan and international tourists). There are also highway buses  departing from Shinjuku and Ikebukuro Stations, which will take about three hours. 

Sayama Hills, Saitama prefecture

• Attractions

Best known for inspiring Hayao Miyazaki and the movie ‘My Neighbour Totoro’, Sayama Hills , also called Totoro no Mori, is a breath of fresh air just outside Greater Tokyo. Channel your inner Satsuki and Mei and pack a bento lunch to wander around the 3,500 hectares of forest with over 1,200 species of flora and fauna  and 19 hiking trails .

Be sure to stop by Kurosuke’s House (open Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday 10am-3pm) – the visitor’s centre – to pick up maps and learn about the nature reserve and its influence on Studio Ghibli and Totoro. You might not get to befriend a giant tanuki or ride in a cat bus (you’ll have to stop by the Ghibli Museum for that) but the fresh air and secluded forest will certainly add a sense of childlike wonder to your trip. 

While you’re in the area, stop by the nearby Sayama Lake reservoir. The lake is pleasant in any season, but especially in winter, when you can easily spot a snow-capped Mt Fuji on the horizon. 

Getting there: From Shinjuku Station take the JR Yamanote line to Ikebukuro, then transfer to the Ikebukuro line and alight at Nishi-Tokorozawa Station. Take the Sayama line to Seibu Kyujo-Mae Station. It will be a 20-minute walk to reach the forest. 

Katsunuma, Yamanashi prefecture

Although better known for sake than vino, Japan has actually been producing amazing wines using locally-grown grapes since the 1800s. Katsunuma, in Yamanashi prefecture, is home to 31 wineries, which between them account for about 30 percent of all Japanese wine. Many offer tasting sessions and lessons in winemaking as well as tours.

Experience it yourself at Budo no Oka (Grape Hill). Here, you can soak in magnificent views of the surrounding vineyards and the Japanese Southern Alps to the west – Yamanashi is home to Mount Fuji – while tasting more than 200 varieties of wine. Aside from wine tastings, there’s plenty more to enjoy on site, including a terrific barbecue restaurant and open-air hot spring.

Getting there: Katsunuma is about 90 minutes on the JR Chuo line Limited Express Azusa, or Kaiji from Tokyo’s Shinjuku Station to Katsunuma-Budokyo Station.

Explore beyond Tokyo

Japan's 8 most underrated prefectures – and why you should visit

Travel off the beaten track to these storybook villages, Edo-era towns with geisha (not Kyoto!) and seaside retreats

The most beautiful places in Japan

Venture beyond Tokyo – add these breathtaking temples, landmarks and hiking trails to your Japan bucket list

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Looking for a relaxed yet socially distanced way to travel? Hop in a car and take these scenic road trips through Japan

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The 11 BEST Day Trips from Tokyo, Japan (2024 Edition)

• Last Updated: January 25, 2024

If you’re looking for the best day trips from Tokyo, this article will help you plan your vacation perfectly!

Tokyo, the capital city of Japan, is an excellent place to base yourself for exploring the surrounding area.

Japan’s excellent transport network and rail passes mean that day trips are easy, convenient and cheaper than you might think. Tokyo station has train journeys leading to may amazing places outside the city.

In some cases, it is possible to join day trips together to make 2 to 3 long day trips utilising some of the amazing regional rail passes available.

Often this can work out being cheaper than taking individual day trips.

READ MORE: Check out our list of the top things to do in Tokyo .

However if you have an active JR pass then you can utilise this for all of the destinations listed below.

Be sure to double-check which route you can use a JR pass on, although I highly recommend getting one. You can buy yours on the Klook website for the best price .

READ MORE: Don’t miss our article on how to spend 3 days in Tokyo !

Table of Contents

What is There to See and Do? 

Getting there and away , book a tour, what is there to see and do, getting there and away, accommodation , insider tip – rail passes, best day trips from tokyo.

Without further ado, let me share with you the best Tokyo day trip ideas to make the most of your time outside the city!

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

Probably Japans most iconic image is the peak of Mt Fuji against a blue sky backdrop. Visiting the famous mountain is a bucket list item for many Japan travelers.

This is the image many come for however, you are more likely to get clouds around here so check the weather forecast. 

A day trip to see Mount Fuji from Tokyo is one of the most popular day trips from Tokyo. 

It’s also one of the easiest with direct buses running from Shibuya and Shinjuku Station. You can book on the day, but it’s better to book in advance.

Aside from Mount Fuji, quite a lot actually. Naturally, Mount Fuji is very much a centrepiece but it’s not all that’s on offer.

This is also one of the most popular day trips from Tokyo for tourists and locals alike, however with a lot to do it never feels that crowded (unless you’re climbing in Mt Fuji in peak season).

If you are looking to climb Mt Fuji, as many people do in the summer, check the dates the trail is open.

As a warning, climbing Mt Fuji is very popular, so do be aware that heading up to the peak may be similar to a rather long conga line. 

Things to see and do at Mt Fuji are quite spread out, and as a result, it’s worth planning what you want to do in advance to make the most of your time there.

The first thing to note is that unless you’re climbing Mt Fuji you really want to go to Fuji Five Lakes (Fuji-Goko).

This area is made up of, rather unsurprisingly, five lakes. There are numerous walking trails around these lakes.

The majority of day trip transport options will take you to the largest lake Kawaguchiko, but there are a couple of buses that will take you further afield.  

The Chureito Pagoda has stunning views of Mt Fuji on a clear day (sadly I did not have much luck).

To get here you will need to take a local train from Fuji Kawaguchiko to Shimoyoshida. From here it’s a nice 20-minute or so walk. 

Kawaguchiko is the most easily accessible of the 5 lakes around Fuji. There are numerous trails and the ropeway taking you part way up Mount Tenjo can offer (weather dependant of course) excellent views of Fuji.

Mount Tenjo itself has a couple of hiking trails that go beyond where the ropeway takes you, as well as trails up and down the mountain itself.

Incidentally, there are a couple of deserted temples on the hike down from the ropeway station that are worth a look. 

There are excellent bus and train options from Tokyo Station for getting to Fuji Five Lakes. The best bet depends if you have any kind of JR pass.

Buses are better for a day trip if you don’t have a rail pass with a one-way journey costs 1950 yen.

You can take buses from Shibuya or Shinjuku, however, Shinjuku usually has more buses leaving.

Click here to book. This is the way most will get to Fuji from Tokyo.

Taking a train is a little more complicated and more expensive unless you have a JR pass or a regional rail pass.

You will need to take the JR Chuo line to Otsuki and then take Fujikyu railway to Kawaguchiko.

Getting to Otsuki you can take the direct 70-minute train at  2500 yen one way or the 100-minute local for 1320.

From Otsuki the train to Fujikyu is 55 minutes and costs 1140 yen one-way.

Obviously, you will not have to worry about the price if you have either of the rail passes listed above.

In addition, you can get a 3-day rail pass that combines Fuji and Hakone. Certainly value for money, it just depends on the time you have available. 

If time is an issue, or you’d prefer to let somebody else do all the thinking and planning for you, we recommend booking a day tour to Mount Fuji from Tokyo.

The one below is the best-rated tour you can book ahead of time on the internet and includes a comfortable coach transfer from Tokyo to Mount Fuji, a delicious traditional lunch and a visit to the beautiful Lake Kawaguchi.

Hakone is famous for its lake, views of Mt Fuji, onsens, hot springs, and Japanese culture.

Situated in between Fuji and Kamakura it is possible to visit as a day trip or as part of a longer trip utilising some of the awesome train passes available.

These multi-day passes mean its more cost-effective to use a regional rail pass and combine visits to Hakone with Fuji or Kamakura.

READ MORE: Here’s our list of the best places to visit in Japan !

Ashino-Ko is the centrepiece of Hakone with boat trips (often covered by regional rail passes) as well as a famous ropeway and some amazing Fuji viewing points.

There are also a number of art museums and short walking trails that make this place one of the great side trips from downtown Tokyo.

The Odawara Castle is a highlight of the area. Originally built in the mid 15th Century, the magnificent Odawara Castle is a must see on your next trip to Hakone.

Other than the Odawara Castle, the scenery in Hakone itself is particularly gorgeous. There are onsens galore that make for some awesome accommodation options and there are a few nice hot springs to enjoy as well. 

Tenzan Onsen has traditional Japanese baths and hot springs where you can relax in the warm thermal waters and admire the waterfalls.

Hakone Yuryo and Hakone Kowakien Yunessun are two other hot springs in the area. There is no better way to treat yourself in Japan than soaking in the natural hot springs, so definitely visit at least one of them!

The train is the best option here. You can either use a JR pass, 2-day Hakone pass or 3 day passes combing Hakone and Kamakura or Hakone and Fuji. 

Once again it’s easy to book a tour to this charming tow from downtown Tokyo to take away all the stress of figuring it our yourself.

Try this tour through Klook , which combines Hakone and Mount Fuji into one epic day of exploring.

READ MORE: Don’t miss our ultimate guide to travelling in Japan – Click here .

Kamakura 

This gorgeous, small seaside town is one of the best day trips from Tokyo.

Whether you want to hike, Buddhist temple hop or relax on the beach, Kamakura can accommodate. 

Temples and hiking trails are the main highlights, however there is a decent beach and the funky island of Enoshima to keep you entertained.

The small town of Kamakura itself has some awesome restaurants and cafes all within walking distance of the top tourist attractions. 

Daibatsu, also known as the Great Buddha, is probably Kamakura’s most iconic sight. The 11.4 metres high Buddha is very popular and naturally is one of the busiest areas in Kamakura.

However the Great Buddha is definitely worth a visit.

The surrounding area has a number of other interesting Buddhist temples including the gorgeous Hase Dera Temple which overlooks the coastline and the town itself. 

Behind Kencho-Ji you can access the Ten-en Hiking Course.

This trail takes you up into the hills behind Kamakura and offers lovely views and some interesting temples en route.

The trail is clearly signposted and there are numerous ways to come down from the hills and back into the town itself. 

Another interesting sight is the Tsurugaoka Hachiman-Gu which is located at the end of Wakayama-Oji.

This is said to be Kamakura’s most important shrine, dedicated to the Hachiman, the god of war. 

The area around the train station is home to numerous cafe’s restaurants and little craft shops.

If you head north from the train station and essentially follow the train track there are a couple of lovely, deserted temples that are a perfect place to find that bit of zen and Japanese culture that you may be craving.

Pick up a Kamakura Day Pass from the Odakyu private train line at Shinjuku station for 1470 yen.

This covers a return trip from Tokyo station to Fujisawa and then enlisted usage of the Enoden and Odakyu railway lines between Fujisawa and Katase-Enoshima (Odakyu) and Fujisawa (Kamakura (Enoden). 

Depending on which train you get it can take anything between 1.5 and 2.5 hours.

Most of the time you will need to transfer once at Fujisawa (which is the end of the line) and then take the Enoden line to Kamakura itself. 

If you are planning on heading to Daibatsu and Hasedera first then you’re better off getting off at Hase Station.

If the beach is what you’re aiming for any of the stations on the beach should suffice. 

There is an Odakyu-Kamakura Rail Pass which allows you to combine a visit to Kamakura and Hakone.

In addition this pass covers transport in Hakone itself and offers discounts to some tourist attractions. 

If you want to enjoy a bit of luxury, you can book private transfers from Tokyo to Kamakura and back. This only costs about 3,500 Yen one way.

Another one of the awesome day tours from Tokyo on Get Your Guide, this one includes a private trip to Kamakura with an English-speaking professional guide so you can learn all about the Japanese history and culture.

Tokyo Day Trip Ideas for Hikers

Tokyo’s surrounding area is blessed with some great hiking trails with many of them offering gorgeous views of Fuji on a cloud-free day.

The only rail pass option available is the 3-day Tokyo area pass. However it is 10,000 yen, so make sure you can get your money’s worth! 

This means that some may end up being more expensive than some of the other trips suggested.

Alternatively, if you have an active JR pass then hikes in Yamanashi, Saitama or Tochigi prefectures may be far more accessible and cost-effective.

There are far more hikes than the ones listed below, I’ve focused on hikes that are nearer to Tokyo limiting travel time.

Here’s what I recommend for hikers looking for awesome Tokyo day trips.

Hike Mount Daibosatsu

This beginner-intermediate level hike is one of many awesome trails in Yamanashi Prefecture.

There are two trails, both of which are just over 6 hours in length. Clear days reward you with stunning views. 

From Shinjuku station, you need to take the JR Limited Express “Kaiji” train and get off at Enzan Station (塩山駅).

The train takes about 90 minutes and costs around 3500 yen, there are cheaper and slower alternatives available. 

From Enzan take the bus heading towards Daibosatsutōge-tozanguchi, this takes 30 minutes and cost 3500 yen.

Hiking Mount Mitake

There are a couple of excellent hikes on offer here with Fuji even being visible from various viewpoints on clear days. 

The pick of the trails on offer is the hike from Mussashi Mitake-jinja to the summit of Otake-san which is a 5 hour round trip.

To get to the start point you can walk or take the cable car from Taikimoto. It’s an hour one way and the cable car runs from 7:30 am to 6:30 pm. 

It takes around an hour and 45 minutes to get out here. Take the JR Chuo line from Shinjuku station to Tachikawa or Ome and then change to JR Ome line.

Get off the Ome line at Mitake and then take a bus from here to the start point at Takimoto. 

Hiking Mount Takao

A nice three and half hour (give or take) hike to the summit that offers decent views back towards Tokyo.

Probably not the most spectacular or peaceful hike around Tokyo (it can be packed on weekends). On a clear day, you can spot Fuji. 

The trail is littered with temples, shrines and tori gates. There is a cable car if you don’t have the energy.

Take the Keio line out to Takaosanguchi from Shinjuku. If you have a JR pass you can head out via the JR Chuo line to Takao and then change onto the Keio line and get off at Takaosanguchi.

The journey times are similar and since the non-JR option costs 370 yen it’s probably not worth activating your JR pass for this.

Of this hikes mentioned this is the closest to Tokyo and the easiest to get to. 

Hike Myojingatake 

This lovely hike down in Hakone offers amazing views of Fuji if the if it’s not cloudy.

The trail is tough in some parts and you should budget between 4 and 6 hours depending on weather, pace and fitness. 

This could be a good option if you are using one of the multi-day Hakone rail passes and looking for great day tours from Tokyo.

You will need to head to Gora station on Hakone Tozan railway. The trail then starts from here. 

Izu Peninsula

If you fancy a little more freedom for your day trips out of Tokyo, you could consider a road trip down to the Izu Peninsula south of the city.

It is popular with Tokyo-ites on weekends and holidays. The western side offers great views of Fuji when the weather cooperates. 

This is rarely visited by tourists and it covers a huge area. There are some lovely hot spring areas offering superb onsens.

In addition, there are some gorgeous beaches where you can bum around in the sun. This helps to cement its reputation as a great place to relax. 

The peninsula is home to some gorgeous beaches and funky laid back towns that are well worth exploring.

Obviously if exploring is on your agenda then hiring a car is your best bet.

However, if hiring a car isn’t an option then it is possible to get around by train, you just don’t have the same level of freedom.

Since this covers such a large area there is no shortage of things to see and do.

The Jogasaki and Irozaki coasts of some fantastic views and Shorehama and Dogashima offer some lovely beaches.

Shuzenji, Ito and Arami offer some amazing onsens and for those that like hiking Kawazu Nanadaru, the seven waterfalls in the mountains above Kawazu, offer some lovely trails.

There’s certainly enough to keep you busy here for a day or more if you choose!

READ MORE: Check out our complete guide to the Izu Peninsula and all the best things to do in Shizuoka Prefecture ! 

There is a rail pass available but depending on where you’re going it may be more cost-effective to purchase tickets separately.

Utilise the amazing app Hyperdia to help you do your research. 

However, if you want some freedom then renting a car is a great option. Day rentals are common in Japan, but you will need your countries driving licence AND an International Drivers Permit (IDP).

Bonus Multi-Day Trip: Nikko  

Nikko is famous for temples and onsens, and the lush Nikko National Park. It’s a bit too far from Tokyo to do as a day trip so most people will do it as a 2 or 4-day visit depending on which rail pass they decide to use.

Central Nikko is a Unesco World Heritage Site which is home to some truly outstanding temples.

In Nikko National Park there are some amazing hiking options around Lake Chuzenji and numerous onsens.

If temples are your thing then Central Nikko is the place to start. From Tobu Nikko station you can take a bus that is covered by the Tobu Nikko pass up to the World Heritage area.

Here you can explore temples at your leisure.

The area around the Toshogu shrine can get particularly busy. The further away you get from here the quieter it gets, with Taiyuin-byo being particularly lovely. 

If you’re looking at heading further afield Lake Chuzen-ji is a great change of pace. There a numerous hiking trails, ropeways and boats to help you get the most out of this gorgeous area.  

Check out this other article I produced on what to see and do in Nikko.

This area is famous for its onsen hotels and resorts. These are some of the more expensive accommodation options in Japan.

Very often prices on sites like Agoda, Booking.com and Hotels.com can be eye-watering.

Your best option is to check out the Japanese hotel site Rakuten . Sometimes you can find some incredible bargains. 

More often than not these hotels will have an option to include breakfast and dinner.

Also, there is usually an additional onsen fee that will be paid upon check out. However it’s usually a small amount of a few hundred yen per person.

Kinugawa Onsen is the most accessible onsen area as it’s included on the most basic rail pass.

This area is littered with some gorgeous onsens. Further than that, you will probably need to pay for transport as your rail pass may not cover it, however, these onsets may be slightly cheaper.  

The best way to get there is from Asakusa station in central Tokyo. Here you can buy a Nikko Tobu pass (follow the signs for the Tobu line or Tobu Asakusa). 

There are a variety of passes that are either 2 or 4 days in length and will cover different areas meaning it is possible to customise your trip to your needs and wants.

Very loosely fitting the definition of a “day trip from Tokyo” as it’s only down in Tokyo Bay.

However, this huge onsen is a fantastic way to spend the day.

If you love onsens then this is the place for you. This huge complex in Tokyo Bay can best be described as an onsen theme park.

Inside you will find restaurants, relaxation rooms, massages, performances and fair ground stalls. 

At the entrance, you need to remove your shoes and select your Yakuta. They will give you a fob with your locker number on it.

You also use this fob to purchase anything inside which you then pay for when you exit. 

Remember to wear your underwear under your Yakuta, otherwise it could be rather embarrassing. 

If you’re curious about what an onsen is and why it’s so popular then this is a pretty awesome place to find out more. 

This huge onsen complex is actually located in the south of Tokyo. Take the Tokyo metro out to Telecom Centre and from there it’s a 5-minute walk.

Japan’s second-largest city is home to 3 million people and is only 30 minutes from Tokyo station by train.

It certainly has an appeal that helps it escape its much bigger brother to the north. 

READ MORE: Check out our list of the best things to do in Yokohama

Minato Mirai is a huge redevelopment of Yokohama’s shipping docks. The area is full of bars, restaurants, arcades and fairground rides all connected by a series of promenades. 

Yokohama is also home to Ramen and Cup Noodle museums for those with a taste for the quirky and the Kirin beer factory if you fancy sampling some of Japan’s most popular beer. 

For those in the mood for something more cultured, the Yokohama Port Museum and Yokohama Museum of Art await.

Additionally there is the lovely Sankeien garden to explore. 

There are a number of different railway companies that run between Tokyo station and Yokohama. Check them out on the Japan Guide site.

Japan’s amazing rail network is the envy of the world. Delays are rare, carriages are spotless and you can get almost anywhere. 

Day trips from Tokyo are made easier and more cost-effective by the rail passes on offer. The hard part comes when deciding which passes to use.  

In this article, there will be a number of different rail passes mentioned. Some are variants of Japans famous JR pass and others are passes on privately run rail networks, most notably down to Kamakura and up to Nikko.

For information on ALL of the rail passes available in Japan check out this excellent article by japanguide.com .

This is a great way to research what is going to be the best option.

Do be aware that rail passes that take in more than one place usually cover only one return trip to Tokyo.

So for example, you couldn’t head to place ‘A’ from Tokyo, head back to Tokyo that night and then head to place ‘B’ the following morning on the same rail pass.

Often these sorts of rail passes cover local transport including buses and trains in the passes local areas.

The article above can give you all the information you need.

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Richard Barnes

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

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5 Best Day Trips from Tokyo

By Brandon Presser

Chill out and catch some surf in Kamakura; bathe in the mountainside hot springs of Hakone; visit the shrines and temples of Nikko; savor the languid natural beauty of Fuji Five Lakes; or beach it without another tourist in sight on the Izu Peninsula. Thanks to Japan’s fantastic infrastructure, all of these trips can be reached by train in a single day​.​ ​B​ut if you’re ambitious, a rental ​car ​​is the best way to see Nikko​'s scenic lakes: pick it up at Utsunomiya station and eat some gyoza while you’re there. Ready to plan it? Read on for more on the best day trips from Tokyo.​

(Editor's note: Given the changing nature of the COVID-19 pandemic, the hours and accessibility of many places are fluid and subject to change. Make sure to contact them before visiting.)

Click the link to read our complete Tokyo guide .

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

KAMAKURA & ENOSHIMA

If you’re looking for a half-day or daylong break from the Big Smoke, Kamakura is your best bet, simply because it’s the closest to the city and promises beaches ( Yuigahama is a favorite), gardens, and sprawling temples. The area is most famously known for the Daibutsu-den, the Giant Buddha , but in recent years its surfing scene has lured international guests who tackle the smooth-rolling waves. It’s like a California surf town from the ‘70s, but expect some of the best-ever sushi caught right off the little island (connected by a pedestrian-friendly bridge) of Enoshima nearby.

Enoshima Electric Railway Arrow

This cute green electric train is both attraction and transportation between Kamakura and Fujitsawa, making frequent stops along the coast. It looks much as it did when it opened in 1922. On a clear day you can see mount Fuji across the bay (after Inamura station). Grab an all-day pass for 600JPY ($5.50) to hop on and off as you like: at Enoshima for lunch at Diego By the River and a 20-minute walk to the Sea Candle lighthouse, at Hase for the giant Buddah at Kotoku-In , or take it all the way to Fujisawa (30 minutes from Kamakura) to visit Shonan T-Site and connect to a train back to Tokyo.

Komachi Street Arrow

For snacks and shopping just outside Kamakura station, head to this street of food vendors, souvenir shops, and eateries. Keep an eye out for the korokke (croquette) shop just before the the third corner on the right. It's easy to miss because it is truly a hole-in-the-wall, and closes when they run out. Get the one made with Kamakura purple potato. There's a shop for sweet candied beans, a vendor selling shirasu taiyaki (that's a fish-shaped pastry filled with  real fish), locally brewed beer, and TV-famous pudding.

Kōtoku-in Arrow

The draw here is the big Buddha (outdone only by the one in Nara). It's really big! And it's rare to see one of these outdoors (its temple was destroyed by a tsunami in 1492.) It's hollow, and you can go inside to see how it's made. Lots of visitors and street vendors outside make this more a tourist site than a spiritual one. Still, the Buddha is awesome in the true sense of the word.

Matt Ortile

Scott Laird

Siobhan Reid

Meaghan Kenny

Enoshima Koya Arrow

A modified fisherman's shanty located right where the canal meets the sea, Enoshima Koya specializes in chirashizushi: fresh-from-the-ocean fish and nori covering a bed of rice. The lunchtime set menu comes with a small soup and homemade pickles; pick the "makanai-don," which is topped with a delectable sesame-miso sauce. The food may be a couple hundred yen more than other spots in the area, but savvy travelers know it's worth the visit.

Kamakura Prince Arrow

A downright steal in the off-season, this hotel's biggest selling point is the wow-factor view of Sagami Bay and Mount Fuji. It may not be the height of fashion that it was when it opened in 1995, but it's well-kept. Every single room has a view of the bay, and with a pool, golf course, and three restaurants, this is the kind of hotel you never have to leave. Lounge in your slippers and robe while you watch the sun set behind Mount Fuji.

Located north of Tokyo, Nikko is often misunderstood. Not just a collection of ancient wooden temples anointed a World Heritage Site by UNESCO , the greater region presents an entire other ecosystem of onsen, forests, and falls for travelers to discover, and they’re usually quieter than fan-favorite Hakone. While young families flock to Japan’s big cities for professional opportunities, the villages of Tochigi prefecture—like Kinugawa and Kawaji—feel delightfully lost in time. A day at Lake Chuzenji is an absolute must, especially in autumn when the tall trees shimmer in iridescent yellows and oranges. Note that distances are longer here, so you’ll need a little more time to stitch together local trains and a few taxis, or you may want to consider a rental car.

KAI Kinugawa Arrow

While many of the KAIs in Hoshino's onsen ryokan portfolio are former hotels that have been souped up to luxurious standards, the Kinugawa property is a fresh build and embodies every tenet of the company's fervent dedication to all things traditionally Japanese: kaiseki multi-course meals, beautiful hot springs, plenty of outdoor space to take in the surroundings, and even classes about local ceramics and other artisan crafts. The private bath, fed by hot springs, is a delightful way to end the evening.

Nikko Tosho-gu Arrow

This Shinto shrine is famous for its carvings of the see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil monkeys. In spite of the crowds—and it's always crowded—a sense of tranquility pervades this spiritual site. Maybe it's the breathtaking craftsmanship, or huge old growth trees, or something more intangible. Even if you don't think you're really into history or spiritual stuff, you're going to be blown away. Around the New Year it's extra crowded with people praying for good fortune.

Nikko Coffee Arrow

Slide the screens of an old merchant's house to find Nikko Coffee, an oasis for travelers who can't go a day without the perfect cup—even when they're taking a break from the big city and getting their fill of nature. This is a great refueling pit stop between Lake Chuzenji and the Nikko Tosho-gu shrines . And the coffee's great; here it's brewed and served with a ritualism not unlike Japanese tea ceremonies.

Kanmangafuchi Abyss Arrow

A gorge formed by an ancient volcanic eruption, the Kanmangafuchi Abyss is a lovely riverside walk that takes in around 70 stone statues of Jizo, a bodhisattva—a Buddhist person who pursues Nirvana and helps other to do so as well. According to legend, every time you count a stone Jizo—the caretaker of wandering souls—you'll arrive at a different number; apparently they have the power to disappear. The site makes for pleasant walking and there's a botanical garden nearby.

Rinno-ji Arrow

If you're dedicated to seeing all the important sites at Nikko, this Buddhist temple is one of them. It's most famous for its three gold Buddhas, manifestations of Futsuran Shrine's three mountain spirits. Compared to Nikko's other sites, this one may be more interesting to people with an interest in Buddhism or Japanese History. If you have limited time, focus on Tosho-gu Shrine and strolling through the park.

The Ritz-Carlton, Nikko Arrow

A monolith of soothing black and gray tones crawling along Lake Chuzenji, the Ritz-Carlton, Nikko is leagues beyond any other accommodations in the entire region. Rooms come with either mountain or lake views (we solidly recommend overlooking the water) and the upmarket sophistication is on point with what you'd expect from the luxury brand. Rooms play with indoor and outdoor space; you can slide open the glass to make your balcony a part of your suite or keep the views in but the elements out when the weather turns.

Yubatei Masudaya Arrow

Breathe a sigh of relief and sit down with a peaceful view of the garden or mountains—you've escaped the frantic crowds of Nikko for a moment. Yuba (tofu skin), a local specialty, was historically made by the vegetarian monks of Nikko's temples. It's thicker and a little fluffier than Kyoto yuba. Try it lots of different ways in the lunch set here. Come here to slow down after a morning of visiting crowded shines and temples.

Nikko Suginamiki Highway Arrow

The 400-year-old Japanese cedars (sugi) stretch for 37 kilometers on the old highway into Nikko, making it the longest tree-lined street in the world. It's designated as a Historic Site and Special Natural Monument by the Japanese government. The easiest place to access a section of the road, if you're driving, is at Suginamiki Park, where there are restrooms and a soba restaurant.

The area of Hakone has become synonymous with ryokans —Japanese inns that almost always include a multi-course dinner, a large bento-style breakfast, and access to a small hot spring, or onsen , where guests can bathe in mineral-rich water. There are dozens, if not over a hundred, to choose from, but the area has also become quite the art hub, with galleries galore and a great open-air museum. Pack light—you’ll only be wearing a yukata cotton robe at your ryokan—then, from Tokyo take the bullet train to Odawara, or the Romance Car to Hakone-Yamoto, and work your way up the mountain on the newly reopened tram, stopping at all the little villages along the way. Gora tends to be the favorite hamlet in which to stay.

Hakone Yuryo Arrow

This expansive onsen features hot spring baths with forest views in an especially serene environment. It's easy to spend hours relaxing in the different baths, sauna, and nap rooms. Everything is clean and calm. To really get into the experience, book a 20-minute back or foot rub, or a 60-minute full body massage with oil. If you're hungry, the restaurant specializes in charcoal cooking that ranges from bar snacks like grilled ayu (freshwater fish) to multi-course meals. You can also get a soft-serve or juice from the take-out window and have it in the garden, or an aperitif.

Odawara Castle Arrow

Often overlooked by Hakone weekenders, Odawara Castle marks the stronghold of one of Japan's most important feudal clans. It's well worth a look before you ride the tram up the mountain and explore the region's little hamlets. The best thing here has to be reserved in advance: the Fuma Ninja training program that allows guests to better understand what exactly ninjas were during samurai times. It's not as hokey as you think; you'll even get to, uh, sharpen those knife-throwing skills.

Hotel Indigo Hakone Gora Arrow

Hotel Indigo Hakone Gora, Japan's first "anti-ryokan," is an upbeat hangout for international travelers and in-the-know weekenders from Tokyo and Kyoto who want to sip designer lattes, listen to DJs, and take a dip in a swimming pool filled with warm, mineral-y onsen water. Rooms are thoroughly Western in style, which might come as a surprise for travelers in search of tatami, but you'll get your very own wooden soaking tub filled with onsen water.

Hakone Ropeway Arrow

The ropeway is part ride, part transportation, part scenic overlook. If you want to see Hakone's mountain towns and Lake Ashi in one day, this is a fun way to do it. It takes you from Souzan Station (just above Gora), over the Owakudani crater (where you can hop off to eat a black onsen egg), to Togendai Station on the shore of lake Ashi. Hope for clear weather so you can see Mount Fuji.

Hakone Open-Air Museum Arrow

This mountainside sculpture park is a popular outing for families with children: this is as much a park as a museum. A path through lawns, wooded areas, and gardens meanders past large-scale sculptures by famous Japanese and Western artists (a lot of Henry Moore). The most interesting things in an indoor Picasso gallery are his ink drawings of bulls. Check the schedule for special events, like night-time light displays, and temporary exhibitions from the likes of Yayoi Kusama. You can walk the park in about 90 minutes, but you may want more time to picnic, play, and rest at the hot spring-fed foot bath.

The Fujiya Arrow

This restaurant inside the grand Fujiya Hotel serves all the classics impeccably, but the Japanese curry lunch is the thing to get. Crab, scallops, shrimp, and squid are perfectly cooked in the seafood curry for which they're known, but beef is a better match for the spicy-sweet roux-thickened sauce. They'll bring you an assortment of six pickles and condiments to add as you like. The curry (which came to Japan by way of British troops) is served in a silver gravy boat with rice on a large white plate with a fork. There is excellent local beer on offer, and service skews formal. The white-tablecloth dining room is a sight to see: Ornate carved woodwork, and hand-painted wildflowers and birds, decorate the ceiling. Dramatic windows on three sides frame the mountainside foliage.

Suzuhiro Kamaboko Village Arrow

This casual spot is an ideal place for trying Hakone's own award-winning craft beer. Hakone Beer is a branch of the family-owned Suzuhiro kamaboko (fish cake) company, and they serve kamaboko takoyaki here. They have an ale, a pilsner, and a rotating seasonal beer on tap. The beer is great, the kamaboko is the ideal foil, and you can do some gift shopping here, too.

FUJI FIVE LAKES

You might think that the most beautiful place in a country is a reward only for the intrepid, but in Japan, travelers will be delighted to discover that the necklace of lakes that wrap around the neck of Mount Fuji are a cinch to reach from central Tokyo. While trips to the summit of the great and sacred mountain are possible in warmer weather (you’ll need a couple of days to pull it off), we prefer holing up around Lake Yamanaka or Lake Kawaguchi and enjoying the views. It’s like the Eiffel Tower —you can’t see it if you climb it.

Aokigahara National Forest Arrow

Cloaking the far side of Mount Fuji's base, Aokigahara National Forest is a haven for hikers hoping to spot wildlife like birds and deer. Once marred by an unfortunate influencer who sensationalized its "suicide forest" moniker, the treed reserve is more famous locally for its interesting system of caves, which are visitable with local guides. Adventurous types who love nature will be attracted to this pitstop—expect to devote two hours minimum.

Lake Kawaguchi Arrow

Of the five lakes of Fuji, Lake Kawaguchi is the winner, with a one-two punch of amazing Fuji views and one of Japan's best museums . Check into the Hoshinoya Fuji , and make sure to check out the Itchiku Kubota Kimono Museum, which dazzles even the biggest museum skeptics with its incredible kimono collection. You're likely to be surrounded by well-traveled vacationers; signs are plentiful and cater to international visitors.

Houtou Fudou Higashi Koiji Arrow

A strange geomorphic shape that disrupts the wooden architecture of the countryside, Houtou Fudou Higashi Koiji is a favorite noodle stop for tourists and locals. You'll find the traditional udon and inari just as compelling well as the elaborate Setouchi Art Island–esque design. Slurp special, ribbon-like noodles with ladle-sized spoons. There's no messing around at this joint; they want you properly refueled before your next hike in the surrounding woods.

Hoshinoya Fuji Arrow

While Hoshinoya Fuji bills itself as a glamping experience, more particular types will be relieved to discover that although there's plenty of forest bathing to be had, rooms are decidedly indoors. Make sure you angle for a room with an unobstructed view of Mount Fuji and we guarantee you'll never leave your balcony; even in winter, you can light a small fire to keep warm as you enjoy how the setting sun changes the shape of Japan's most hallowed mountain.

Lake Yamanaka Arrow

Rent bicycles and curl your way around Lake Yamanaka, stopping every so often to gaze up at Mount Fuji towering overhead; just when you think you've found its best angle, there's another spot that's even better just ahead. The area really comes to life when the seasons turn, when bright blooms and leaves decorate the surrounding trees. Although perched high in the mountains, the ground encircling the lake is very flat, making it easy to navigate on foot or by bike.

IZU PENINSULA

This peninsula, drooping below the Bay of Tokyo, was once a hotspot for Tokyoites before international air travel made Hawaii a more appealing beach option. But in recent years the area has become a popular choice for weekending locals who spread their towels along the sands of Shimoda or wander the adorable villages, like Shuzenji. International travelers aren’t hip to the destination yet, as it’s just a little further than the classics (Hakone and Kamakura), but the extra minutes on the train will be worth it if you’re jonesing to be the only other international traveler in the vicinity.

Shuzenji Onsen Arrow

A cuter, quainter township in Japan we cannot think of: Shuzenji is like stepping back 50 years to when soda fountains and penny arcades kept kids busy when school was over. The best part? A hot stream of mineral water runs right through the center of town, and there are designated areas were you can dip your weary feet while relaxing with locals. Flat streets and slow traffic make it easy for every type of visitor.

Onidaiko Arrow

At Onidaiko, you can dine inside an old house that was moved beam by beam from Fukui prefecture. The specialty here is Hokkaido soba made with silky strands of buckwheat noodles and a special regional kelp from Japan's northerly island. Servers feel as old as the historical house, but everything rolls out perfectly, making the restaurant a great choice for a lunch if you happen to be in town.

Shimoda Arrow

The region of Shimoda, at the very bottom of the Izu peninsula, has dozens of beaches between miles of volcanically carved shores of rocks and caves. It's a popular weekend spot for Tokyoites, but international travelers don't yet know the drill, thinking Japan's only beaches are down in Okinawa. They're not the world's best, but they offer a great break from the usual tourist circuit of temples and towers between Tokyo and Kyoto , and chances are you won't find another gaijin—foreigner—for miles.

Asaba Ryokan Arrow

In the heart of Shuzenji lies a little enclave founded over 500 years ago—originally monks dwelt here, and then a rich tradition of Noh theater developed. Today Asaba Ryokan's grounds surrounding a private pond keep the tradition of Noh alive with regular performances for guests, as well as some of the finest ryokan hospitality this side of Tokyo. Almost all of the rooms come with handwoven tatami flooring; after dinner, your plush futon is unfurled on the floor for a most restful sleep.

Fuji International Speedway Arrow

Fuji International Speedway is like Indy 500—if it were transplanted outside Tokyo. The country's premiere racing venue is home to feverish fandom and some of the best international racing competitions in the world. The speedway is only a must for car enthusiasts. For a small fee you can drive the track when races aren't going on, but the go-karts just down the road are a fun must-try for anyone, including families.

The Hiramatsu Hotels & Resorts Atami Arrow

The town of Atami brings Japan's love of hot springs right to the coast. Imagine sitting in the soothing mineral waters of your own private tub while gazing upon the sea, and you've imagined your stay at Hiramatsu Atami. The architectural details, inspired by a traditional Japanese house, are stacked with enough elevation that you can stare out at the ocean from your suite. There are only 13 rooms, which means plenty of personal care.

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19 Awesome Day Trips From Tokyo

I know that Tokyo is a very exciting place, especially for first-time visitors, but I cannot emphasize it often enough: It’s important to get out and see other parts of Japan as well. If you cannot afford going all the way to Kyoto, Hiroshima or Fukuoka, then at least plan a few day trips from Tokyo. I’m sure you won’t regret it. In fact, there are million of options, so it might be hard to choose. Here are my recommendations for day trips from Tokyo.

Day Trips from Tokyo to Kanagawa Prefecture:

Kanagawa Prefecture is right next to Tokyo, so it’s easy, cheap and fast to visit. As there are a lot of things to see, Kanagawa is certainly one of the best options for a day trip or even a weekend trip. I want to introduce a few places that are especially worth visiting.

Hakone (箱根) is part of the volcanically active Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park centered around Lake Ashino. It’s an internationally famous holiday resort offering hot springs, natural beauty and great views of Mt. Fuji. As it’s less than 100 km from Tokyo, it makes a great day trip.

A big red gate stands at the entrance of Hakone Shrine which is located right next to Lake Ashino.

You can take a cable car to explore Owakudani , a volcanic hot spot full of sulphurous springs. There you can enjoy black eggs (黒玉子, kuro tamago) which are unique to Hakone. The shell turns black due to a chemical reaction with the sulphurous water. Despite their look, they actually taste delicious and are said to prolong your life, so definitely try them!

You should take a pirate ship tour on Lake Ashino. On a clear day you can even see Mt. Fuji.

If you’re interested in visiting Hakone, check out this website with lots of useful information in English.

2. Kamakura:

Kamakura (鎌倉) is less than an hour away from Tokyo. It’s also known as the Kyoto of Eastern Japan , offering numerous temples, shrines and other historical structures such as Hasedera Temple , Engakuji Temple and Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine .

The most famous attraction of Kamakura is the Great Buddha of Kotokuin .

If you’re planning a day trip to Kamakura, check out this website .

3. Enoshima:

Just like Kamakura, Enoshima (江の島) is located in the Shonan area. It’s a small island, connected to the mainland by the 600-m-long Enoshima Bridge.

In summer you can go swimming or surfing at the beach. On a clear day, you’ll be able to see Mt. Fuji .

There are several interesting sights such as temples, shrines, a cave and even an aquarium. Most popular is probably the Enoshima Shrine complex dedicated to Benzaiten , goddess of good fortune, wealth, music and poetry. She’s said to be the creator of Enoshima.

If you’ve decided to go there, make sure to have a look at the “ Enoshima-Kamakura Freepass ” and the “ Enoshima 1-Day Passport “. You might be able to save some money.

4. Odawara:

Odawara City (小田原市) is the entrance to the Fuji Hakone Izu National Park . You could stop by for a short 1h-visit on your way to Hakone.

If you’re into Japanese castles, then you’ll love Odawara Castle . Its size is quite impressive and the museum on several floors inside the castle tower offers a lot of interesting artefacts.

5. Yokohama:

Yokohama (横浜) is probably one of the most popular day trips from Tokyo. There are so many things to do and see there, it won’t get boring.

Minato Mirai (left photo) and China Town (right photo) are well-known attractions. Apart from that you can also check out the Cup Noodle Museum, Ramen Museum , Kirin Beer Museum as well as a former residential area of foreign merchants.

If you like Japanese gardens, enjoy a few hours at the beautiful Sankeien Garden , especially worth checking out in autumn and spring.

For more information, read the Yokohama Visitors’ Guide .

6. Kawasaki:

If it’s not your first trip to Japan, you might have already seen the most popular tourist spots close to Tokyo. Then, I suggest going to Kawasaki which is only a short train ride away from central Tokyo.

The Kawasaki Daishi Temple is quite impressive. The shopping street leading to the temple offers so many delicious snacks and you can get all the souvenirs you’ve ever dreamed of. Especially for Maneki Neko and Daruma lovers it’s a tiny paradise.

There’s also a lovely Chinese garden nearby.

If you happen to be there in early April, you might want to experience one of the craziest Japanese festivals . The Kanamara Matsuri also known as “ Phallus Festival ” is held in Kawasaki every year.

Day Trips from Tokyo to Tochigi Prefecture:

Tochigi Prefecture is located in the Kanto region just like Tokyo. It’s contiguous with Ibaraki, Gunma, Saitama, and Fukushima Prefectures. Not a very well-known prefecture for travelling, apart from one spot:

Nikko (日光) is a small town that marks the entrance to Nikko National Park .

Nikko is mostly famous for Toshogu Shrine , the mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu , which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The shrine buildings are extremely fascinating and the various carvings with all their details could keep you busy all day long. The three monkeys are one of the most popular carvings there.

When you are in Nikko, make sure to also visit the beautiful Lake Chuzenji (中禅寺湖, right photo) – which offers a lovely scenery, especially in autumn (mid to late October).

And don’t miss the Kegon Fall (華厳の滝, kegon no taki) which is not only very close to the other two sights, but is also one of Japan’s Most Beautiful Waterfalls .

There’s so much more to see in the Nikko National Park, so if you want to visit, check out this website for more information.

Day Trips from Tokyo to Saitama Prefecture:

Saitama Prefecture is bordered by Tokyo and parts of it can actually be seen as a suburb of Tokyo. In short, it’s really close and thus ideal for a day trip.

8. Kawagoe:

Kawagoe (川越) is probably the most famous sightseeing spot in Saitama. It’s a former castle town and you can still visit one last remaining building of Kawagoe Castle, called “ Honmaru Goten “.

A very well-known attraction is the Warehouse District with its clay-walled buildings that create an Edo period (1603-1867) atmosphere.

Well worth checking out is also “ Kitain Temple ” (喜多院). You’ll find the only remaining buildings of the original Edo Castle there. Make sure to visit the “Gohyaku Rakan” statues as well. These are more than 500 stone statues of the disciples of Buddha and each of them has its own facial expression. Find the one that looks like you. Very amusing!

For more information about sightseeing in Kawagoe click here .

9. Chichibu:

Another major attraction of Saitama Prefecture is Chichibu City ( 秩父市 ).

In spring (late April – late May) you can enjoy beautiful shibazakura (pink moss) in Hitsujiyama Park .

Chichibu Shrine is also well worth checking out. In early December a lot of people attend the yearly night festival at the shrine.

While those two attractions are certainly a highlight when visiting Chichibu, there’s a lot more to explore .

Day Trips from Tokyo to Shizuoka Prefecture:

Shizuoka Prefecture is probably quite well-known – even among foreign visitors to Japan – because of its beautiful sights of Mt. Fuji.

10. Izu Peninsula – Atami:

Atami City (熱海市), a coastal hot spring resort , is located at the entrance to the Izu Peninsula. Even if you’re short on time you can at least visit Atami. It even has a Shinkansen station, so if you have the Japan Rail Pass , it’s a cheap 40-mins trip.

You can just soak in one of the many onsen, enjoy the beautiful views of the ocean, visit one of the several museums or …

… check out Atami Castle . From up there you’ll also get a breathtaking view.

If you want to do more than just a day trip, I highly recommend exploring the rest of the Izu Peninsula as well.

11. Mt. Fuji:

Who doesn’t love Mt. Fuji ? I surely do. And Shizuoka is one of the best places to get some great views of this beautiful volcano. Now that since it has become a UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s even more popular.

There are tons of places within Shizuoka Prefecture from where you can see Mt. Fuji. I recommend Fuji City and Shimizu , especially Miho no Matsubara beach (right photo). In summer (July – August) you can also climb Mt. Fuji – although you’d need more than a day trip to accomplish it.

For more interesting sights in Shizuoka, check out my previous blog posts .

Day Trips from Tokyo to Chiba Prefecture:

Chiba Prefecture is right next to Tokyo and many people forget that some sights are actually in Chiba and not in Tokyo (such as Tokyo Disneyland).

12. Chiba Castle:

If you’re short on time, but interested in Japanese castles, then visiting Chiba Castle is a good option. It takes less than an hour to get there.

And it’s a famous hanami spot in spring, so that’s probably the best time to visit.

13. Boso Peninsula – Tateyama:

My personal highlight in Chiba is the Boso Peninsula which offers various extraordinary sights.

Worth visiting is Tateyama City (館山市) which has a nice castle and several interesting shrines and temples, always with the beautiful ocean in the background.

Apparently it’s also great for windsurfing because I saw a lot of people doing it when I went there.

14. Boso Peninsula – Nokogiriyama:

Don’t miss Mt. Nokogiriyama (鋸山) when you come to the Boso Peninsula.

Nicknamed “Sawtooth Mountain” because of its current shape it offers not only a great view, but also is home to Nihonji Temple with one of the biggest Buddha Statues in Japan.

I highly recommend this as a day trip from Tokyo.

There’s a lot more to see , so make sure to check it out.

Day Trips from Tokyo to Yamanashi Prefecture:

Yamanashi Prefecture is actually the other prefecture besides Shizuoka that Mt. Fuji can call home. Yes, that mountain is so big it’s located in two Japanese prefectures.

15. Kawaguchiko:

If you want to get some breathtaking landscape photos with Mt. Fuji in the background, then the Fujigoko (5 Fuji Lakes) are your best bet. The one that’s easily accessible by public transportation (there’s even a direct highway bus from Shinjuku) is Lake Kawaguchi.

Lake Kawaguchi offers quite a few fun things to do, so you could easily spend a few days there, but the main focus is Mt. Fuji, of course.

The famous red Chureito Pagoda can be found in nearby Fujiyoshida City (just 10 mins by train from Kawaguchiko).

If you happen to be in Japan in spring (late April to late May), then visiting the “ Shibazakura Festival ” is a MUST! With Mt. Fuji in the background this is by far the most beautiful pink moss field I’ve ever seen in Japan.

For more lovely places to check out, go and read the Yamanashi Sightseeing Spots website.

Day Trips from Tokyo to Gunma Prefecture:

Gunma Prefecture is a bit farther away from Tokyo, but a day trip is still possible. For holders of the Japan Rail Pass it’s totally worth it as the Shinkansen takes less than an hour.

16. Kusatsu Onsen:

Kusatsu is one of Japan’s best hot spring resorts and one of my personal favorites. Going there on a day trip would actually be a shame as you would want to spend more time there. If you take a direct bus from Tokyo, it’ll take about 4 h one-way, so you wouldn’t have that much time. Using a rental car would be more beneficial.

At Kusatsu Onsen (草津温泉) you can watch a so-called Yumomi (湯もみ) performance. It’s a traditional method of cooling down the hot water so that people can comfortably take a bath afterwards. Women are stirring the water with a large wooden paddle while singing local folk songs.

The region is a paradise for hot spring lovers all year round. There are so many things to discover, so I recommend taking your time while you’re there.

Another highlight when visiting Kusatsu is the nearby crater lake of Mt. Shirane .

17. Takasaki:

Takasaki City (高崎市) is only a 50-mins bullet train ride from Tokyo. It’s famous for daruma as it’s the leading producer of the “lucky charm” dolls in Japan.

The Byakue Dai-Kannon statue and the Shorinzan Daruma Temple are the major tourist attractions in Takasaki.

18. Lockheart Castle:

Ok, I admit that this is not a typical day trip destination from Tokyo. And I swear I’m not adding it because it’s a castle. *g* Lockheart Castle was originally built by the Lockhart Family in 1829 in Carluke, Scotland . Then, Japanese actor Masahiko Tsugawa bought it. The castle was taken apart and shipped to Japan where it was put together again. Now you can find a lot of galleries and museums there (even a Santa Museum). It’s also a popular place for weddings.

This is just a little extra I thought I’d throw in for all the fans of Japanese dramas and movies , because some of you might have seen it there. It has been used as shooting location for dramas such as “ Atashinchi no Danshi ” or “ Kaibutsu-kun “. Lockheart Castle is about a 2h drive from Tokyo, but you can also access it by public transportation. Take a train to JR Numata Station and from there a bus (~ 20 mins) or taxi.

The Tourist Guide of Gunma Prefecture shows you even more places you could explore.

19. Your Favorite Day Trips from Tokyo?

There certainly are other places to check out, but let’s face it, for Fukushima, Sendai, Nagano or Nagoya you’d want more time than just a mere day trip. And you’d probably want the Japan Rail Pass to save money.

I could recommend a lot more such as Mt. Takao , for example. But I think it’s a lot more fun to hear what you’d recommend.

What are your suggestions? What makes a great day trip from Tokyo?

Read next: 50 Day Trips from Kyoto

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Once again, wonderfully laid out article, with gorgeous pictures and great information. Just lovely to see all of this organized by prefecture and highlighted with the major items at each location, including links to more specific details; it just makes this so usable and convenient. My OCD kicked in just a tiny bit and I really wanted there to be twenty locations, so I’m hoping someone can suggest at least one more great place to add to this list before you make the brochures (to be sent to the publisher?), since this is such a fantastic idea. You should include one of these brochures with every round trip ticket sold to Japan(Tokyo)!!! :luvit:

Hehe, nice suggestion Bud. ^__^ Actually it wouldn’t be too difficult to add some more, but let’s say what others suggest. :D

Looks like I’ll have to adjust my schedule for this autumn. Have you ever been to the Ushiku Daibutsu in Ibaraki Prefecture?

I know about it, it’s on my list, but I haven’t been there YET. ^___^ How about you?

+1 Takaosan. Went in winter. Great snow views. Heard they have a beer tent at the top in summer. Will be going there again in August to find out. Also Mito (Ibaraki) is a good day trip from Tokyo.

Thanks for the suggestions. ^_^ I went to Mito a few summers ago. I got to see a lovely firework at night, an even better summer festival parade the next day. I was a little bit disappointed by the garden there, though. Maybe it was just not the right season to go. ;)

I have been to Mt Takeo and it is so beautiful. Near the bottom of the funicular railway there is a restaurant calle Ukai Toriyama…it is just absolutely amazing. Lots of tea houses set in the most magnificent gardens. You can eat there or you can just wander around to see the gardens. I would definitely recommend it as a “must see” spot. It is in walking distance of the train station or they also have a bus going backwards and forwards I think. At least there was a bus when I was there.

I guess I really have to visit Mt. Takao next time I’m in Tokyo. *g* Thanks a lot for the recommendation and useful extra information. ^______^

Really nice article! There are a lot of spots I haven’t been to yet. Wanna see them! Especially Kusatsu Onsen (I’ve seen it on a report of a delegation of the German Romantic Road, who travelled along the Japanese Romantic Road) and Nokogiriyama (what a funny name!).

I went to Mt. Takao once during autumn to see the wondeful colours of the leaves. But it was sooo crowded! One can see one picture of them here.. http://wp.me/p2oCme-7Q I would recommend to visit it during the week, when nobody has holiday and at no peak… Liked Mount Takigo in Yamanashi Prefecture more, but that is a real hike with no cablecar and no restaurants.. http://wp.me/p2oCme-q4 And Mount Haruna with Ikaho Onsen in Gunma Prefecture! http://wp.me/p2oCme-4F

You really should visit Kusatsu Onsen on a weekend trip. I’m sure you’ll love it. ^___^

Despite the people you were able to take some lovely photos. No wonder it’s so popular. Thanks for sharing and adding some more suggestions. :D

I was told that Mount Asama is a really nice place to see. The volcano is still active sometimes: it was forbidden to climb it a few years ago because of toxic fumes. Now it is open again. I guess it is better to have a car to go there, or take a taxi at Karuizawa station. I’m set to climb it next time I visit Nagano prefecture; a 1 hour climb approximately. Apparently, the view of the Japanese Alps is spectacular.

Thanks a lot for the suggestion. I’m sure that’s a great experience, but I bet it’s better if you have more than a day. It’s still an active volcano after all, so there’s always this thrilling feeling, too. :D

On the north face of Mount Asama is the Devil’s park 鬼押し出し公園 which is my absolute most favorite natural place in Japan. Stunning, almost moonscape.

Excellent article!

I’m surprised Mito is not listed as it’s the city where is located one of the best thre gardens in Japan, Kairaku-en. Maybe you’re not high on japanese gardens, I wonder if it’s worth to go there, especially considering I’d go in plum blossom period and I heard it’s very cool there.

Rob, to be honest I didn’t like the garden in Mito that much. To be fair, I went there in summer, so it wasn’t that overwhelming and I had already visited all the other top-ranked gardens in Japan. I had a nice time in Mito, especially as I arrived just for the great summer festival parade and firework, but it didn’t convince me as much as some other things in my list.

But thanks for mentioning it. This is all about interests and people’s tastes anyway, and just because I didn’t like it that much doesn’t mean others wouldn’t. :)

I live in Mito and would say to definitely visit it during peak plum blossom season or peak hanami. The flowers and festivals transform it from humdrum to heavenly! Also, if you’re a natto lover, Mito is for you!

Thanks for the advice! I really enjoyed the summer festival and the fireworks in Mito in August. :)

A very nice article, Jasmine.

This page looks like my photo album! I have almost the exact same shots.

I’ve been to most of these spots, and you did a fine job of combining them into a single resource. This would be good for anyone coming to Japan who wants to know “What’s there to do?”

Glad you – as a person who actually lives in that region – agrees and appreciates this list. :D

I don’t get to go to Tokyo that often, but as I’ve seen pretty much everything there already, I tend to do day trips when I’m “down there”. Can’t wait to explore some of the suggestions that were made in the comments. ^____^

If you want to add anything to the list, let me know! ;)

Guten Abend Jasmine! Another great blog post. So I have finally decided to go for the April one year Japanese language course. I decided on Kyoto as i wanted both traditional and the modern Japan experience. Although I am a little worried that I might miss out on the super cool moments I might experience in Tokyo or Osaka. I had even considered Fukuoka but since it’s quite far from Kyoto and Tokyo I am scared I might not have the budget to travel much. Can you recommend the best place i should take my course at? Keeping in mind the student friendly expenses, the traditional culture as well as the pop culture? P.S- I’m a big anime fan. :S Will be grateful. Thank you :D

There’s nothing to worry about. Kyoto has a lot to offer and Osaka is just around the corner. In my eyes, Kansai is one of the best spots to travel to various nearby sights on a budget. Just have a look at some places in Kansai that I’ve already introduced. I’m sure you’ll find a few spots you’d love to visit. And if you get the Seishun 18 ticket , you can save a lot of money.

No doubt every place in Japan has a lot to offer. Kyoto has always topped my list. somehow i love the serenity aspect that it offers compared to the more commercial towns. Thanks again Jasmine :happy:

And recently I started watching Atashinchi no Danshi. It’s great to know that Lockheart castle is a real one and not just a set. Japan is so beautiful :kyah:

Tanya, I was just in the mood to try a new drama and will start watching Atashinchi no Danshi, seems like it has good ratings and has some familiar faces in the cast too. Thanks for mentioning it, its really better to get a recommendation than to randomly search for new one! :thumbup: :D

I’m not familiar with the newest dramas as I haven’t had the time to watch any in the past 2 years or so, but I used to watch A LOT.

Atashinchi no Danshi is quite nice, but not one of my favorite. If you want some recommendations, here you go (though that’s solely based on my opinion):

Dr. Koto Shinryojo (I’m biased ever since I visited Yonaguni where the drama was shot) , Hana Yori Dango, Hanakimi, Nakanai to kimeta hi, Hotaru no Hikari, Nankyoku Tairiku (if you don’t know this already, based on what you always tell me I’m sure you’ll love this one) , Soredemo ikiteyuku (mentally pretty heavy stuff) , Rich Man Poor Woman, GTO, Densha Otoko, Nodame Cantabile (watch this!!!) , Liar Game, Galileo, Love Revolution, Yasha, Good Luck, Last Friends, Maou, Love Shuffle, Voice, Tokyo Friends, Mr. Brain, Majo Saiban, Orthros no Inu, Buzzer Beat, Bloody Monday, Tokyo Dogs

This is just a small selection of what I can remember, but I hope you’ll find a few you like and consider watching. ;)

OMG Jasmine, thanks so much! I am now gonna be so busy for the next few months. I immediately saw “Nodame Cantabile”, it’s my favorite series of any TV drama/or Anime anywhere. I keep the last part of the Drama and Anime in “my video” section and play it about once every week. I’ve watched both the anime and drama series completely from start to finish so many times, I’ve lost count. I show it to anyone that visits me and it always makes me feel good.

I have never before had a TV series (American or otherwise) that I could watch over and over and over again and never get tired of it… that is until I found Nodame. Most of these series you referenced are new to me or I’ve only seen the Anime and not the Live action yet. I’m not certain they’ll be on the subs websites I go to, but I’m going to have a great time watching these if they’re available, so thanks so much. Its very strange how I started on anime when my son was young and I got hooked on that and then went to manga and now subbed Asian shows (with anime and manga still). Its really time consuming to try and keep up with all of them (Korean, Hong Kong, Chinese, Filipino and Japanese)… whew, glad I’m retired LOL! :fan: :kyah: :luvit: :thumbup: :peace:

@Jasmine Thank you so much for the list. I will definitely make time to watch them. I’m sure you must be quite busy with work to keep up with these dramas. Nevertheless thanks a ton for all the useful information everytime! :fan: @BudMartin Ooh and Nodame Cantabile is amazing!! It’s the first drama which has done complete justice to the manga and anime! :luvit:

Yes I just finished it. Must say the story is quite unusual so manages to keep you glued till the end. :luvit: Since you love Japanese Dramas, you should try Last Cinderella. :kyah: I personally loved it! A must watch I say! :ehehe:

I saw “Last Cinderella” recently and it was really really funny at times (I laughed so hard that my neighbors heard me). Unfortunately the ending wasn’t what I personally wanted, but they did keep me guessing and interested in it. I still recommend it highly and ALSO recommend you drink while watching it, you’ll appreciate the humor even more!!

A great list and selection of places Jasmine. It just goes to show you that there is a lot more to the Kanto region that Tokyo itself. Anyone on a short trip to Japan (1 week) should probably focus on the Golden Route of Tokyo-Kyoto-Nara-Osaka-Hiroshima. If you are going to spend more time in Japan, definitely think about some of these places as day trips or weekends away from Tokyo.

Absolutely agreed. :D

Nagano City can definitely be done as a daytrip from Tokyo :) The Shinkansen ride makes it an easy destination. Also, the Railway museum in Saitama makes for a great half day trip. Apart from that, I don’t have many more ideas, you put a lot of stuff!

Mount Takao is definitely worth it :)

I would prefer to go to Nagano for more than a day trip, though, especially if one wants to visit the “snow monkeys”. And then there’s also Matsumoto Castle! (*_*)b But you are absolutely right, of course. It’s possible and if one has the Japan Railpass, then it’s also affordable to go there.

Thanks for the recommendation of the Railway Museum in Saitama. I haven’t been to that one yet. :)

There is one more I just remembered.. Has anybody already mentioned the Bosai museum and Bonsai village in Omiya – Saitama?

I don’t think it has been mentioned already. This is the first time I hear about it. Thanks a lot for the suggestion. ^___^

Nagano Snow Monkey or Matsumoto are good day trips as well

Though I wouldn’t recommend it as a day trip. In my opinion one should spend at least 2 days there. But if you’re short on time, it’s possible, of course. ^__^

Oh :) Just loved this list: we’re planing a trip to Japan in march/April and I found a lot of inspirational place :) thanks

You’re very welcome. ^__^ Enjoy your trip!

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The top 5 day trips from Tokyo for hikes, hot springs and surf

Mar 22, 2024 • 5 min read

You can go surfing on Izu Oshima within striking distance of Tokyo © Yoshiyoshi Hirokawa / Getty Images

Whether you are a first-time visitor to Tokyo or know the city well, there are plenty of surprises waiting on the capital’s doorstep.

The temples and shrines of Nikkō and Kamakura offer a window into Japanese history, while Mt Takao, Hakone, and Izu Oshima Island provide a natural contrast to Tokyo’s crowded, urban heart.

All of these spots can be reached within an hour or two by train from Tokyo. If you travel on three consecutive days, you may be able to save a few yen by using the Tokyo Wide Pass . Here are our top picks for a day trip from Tokyo.

1. Meet the Big Buddha of Kamakura

Travel time: One hour

From 1185 to 1333, the coastal town of Kamakura temporarily replaced Kyoto as the then seat of power in Japan. It’s the remnants of that era that make modern-day Kamakura such a compelling day trip from Tokyo, with sights like the magnificent Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine and a varied collection of Zen temples.

The latter includes Japan’s oldest Zen monastery, Kencho-ji , and Hokoku-ji and its small bamboo forest. However, the highlight at Kamakura is the Daibutsu , an 11.3m-high (37ft) bronze statue of Buddha resting serenely at Kotoku-in Temple since being cast in 1252.

How to get to Kamakura from Tokyo : Take the JR Yokosuka Line from Tokyo Station to Kamakura Station. Once there, most of Kamakura’s sights are walkable, but for the Big Buddha at Kotoku-in Temple take the retro Enoden tram three stops to Hase, from where it’s a five-minute walk north.

2. Experience island life on Izu Oshima

Travel time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Few travelers realize it but thanks to the Izu Island chain and remote Ogasawara archipelago, Tokyo technically has islands within its city limits. The closest to the mainland, Izu Oshima , makes for an active day away from the city.

To get a sweat on, hike around the crater of volcanic Mt Mihara, Oshima’s most dominant peak at 2487ft (758m), then soak in the outdoor hot-spring baths at Miharayama.

Alternatively, rent a bicycle and circumnavigate the 91 sq mile island, taking in coastal hot springs on route, distinctive rock formations, and (from January to March) Oshima’s signature camelias.

How to get to Oshima Island from Tokyo: Take a high-speed jet ferry from Tokyo’s Takeshiba Terminal, which is next to Takeshiba Station on the Yurikamome Line or a short walk south of JR Hamamatsucho Station on the Yamanote Line. Ferries arrive at Oshima’s Motomachi or Okata ports, from where you can catch buses to the main sights or rent a bicycle or car.

3. Visit Nikkō’s spectacular Tōshō-gū shrine

You can see shrines in Tokyo, but Nikkō is on a whole different level. The UNESCO World Heritage-designated Tōshō-gū  Shrine is the resting place of the first Edo-era shogun, Tokugawa Ieyasu.

After an approach lined by towering cedars, the highlights include a five-story pagoda and imposing gateways like the Yomei-mon, a riot of black lacquer and gilding that’s adorned with vibrant carvings of birds and dragons. 

Elsewhere in the complex are the spectacular gilded buddhas at Rinnō-ji , plus subtle decorations like the carvings of the three monkeys of "see, speak and hear no evil" fame.

How to get to Nikkō from Tokyo: Nikkō has two neighboring stations: JR Nikkō and Tōbu Nikkō. The quickest route from Tokyo is to use Tōbu Railway’s Kegon or Spacia X limited-express trains between Asakusa and Tobu Nikkō, although a joint JR-Tōbu service also starts from Shinjuku. Buses connect both Nikkō and Tōbu-Nikkō stations to Tōshō-gū and other key sights. Alternatively, it’s about a 20-minute walk from the stations to Tōshō-gū.

4. Escape to Mount Takao for hikes, views and clear air

Travel time: 55 minutes

You don’t have to go to all the way to Hakone for great Fuji views. When the weather is clear, Fuji looks resplendent from the top of 599m (1965ft) Mt Takao .

Still inside Tokyo, Takao is arguably the easiest way to experience Japan’s natural surrounds. The hike up only takes 90 minutes to two hours but it can be made even shorter by taking a cable car halfway up.

On the way, you’ll pass through Yakuō-in Temple , a center for ascetic training that holds a fire walking festival on the second Sunday of every March.

Toward the peak, Takao’s cherry blossoms are a popular spot for hanami  (flower-viewing) picnics in spring, while the seasonal Beer Mount beer garden at the top is ideal for a post-walk thirst quencher from mid-June to mid-October.

How to get to Takao from Tokyo: Ride the Keio Line special-express from Shinjuku to Takaosan-guchi Station. From there, you are a five-minute walk from either the trailhead at the foot of Takao or the cable car, which can take you halfway up the peak. 

5. Immerse yourself in the hot springs and scenery of Hakone

Travel time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Mountainous Hakone is one of the most popular side trips from Tokyo. A jaunt here delivers up-close views of Mt Fuji and the steaming sulfur vents of Owakudani (Great Boiling Valley), plus hot-spring bathing complexes like Yunessun, and even an outdoor art museum home to work by Rodin and Picasso.

While Hakone can be explored in a day, consider an overnighter at a ryokan  (these traditional inns have their own hot spring baths).

How to get to Hakone from Tokyo: Catch Odakyu’s limited-express Romancecar from Shinjuku Station to Hakone-Yumoto Station. You’ll need a reserved seat, though outside of holiday periods you can buy that at the station on the day of travel. To save yen, also get a Hakone Freepass . It covers the return train trip and gives two or three days of unlimited use of the buses, ropeways, and other transportation networks you’ll need to get around Hakone. 

This article was first published Jun 12, 2019 and updated Mar 22, 2024.

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• 10 Best Day Trips from Tokyo

Explore more with this list of epic ideas of the best day trips from Tokyo!

Tokyo is one of the largest megacities in the world and you will never be bored with what it offers. It doesn’t stop there, though. There are many places which are easily accessible from Tokyo that a lot of travelers miss before moving to other popular destinations such as Kyoto or Osaka. Here are some ideas of day trips from Tokyo to add to your bucket list.

1. Kamakura

Once the political capital of Japan, Kamakura is home to beautiful temples and shrines, where locals enjoy spending their weekends. It’s also famous for one of the most bustling beaches in Japan.

2. Yokohama

A magnificent port city with the second largest population in Japan. Find unique souvenirs at Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse and enjoy delicious cuisine at the biggest Chinatown in Japan.

3. Hitachi Seaside Park

The beautiful blue nemophila flowers reach their peak bloom from mid-April to early May, although the park offers amazings view of flowers in its immaculately maintained gardens throughout the year.

4. Arakurayama Sengen Park

If you want to take the perfect “iconic Japan” picture with Mt.Fuji, a beautiful pagoda, and cherry blossoms, visit this scenic park located near the Lake Kawaguchi in Yamanashi Prefecture.

5. Chichibu

Just an hour and a half from Tokyo by train, Chichibu is a great day trip destination to immerse yourself in nature. Enjoy a boat ride in Nagatoro river, or the breathtaking fields of pink mountain phlox, known as shibazakura in Japan.

With its scenic mountain views and a plenty of onsen hotsprings, Hakone is one of the most popular day trip destinations for Tokyoites looking to avoid the hustle and bustle. It is also one of the best places to enjoy autumn foliage in Japan.

A beautiful small city in the mountains with several UNESCO World Heritage sites. The Nikko Toshogu Shrine is a must-visit if you have time for a day trip from Tokyo.

8. Fuji-Q Highland

Located at the foot of Mt. Fuji, Fuji-Q Highland offers a wide range of experiences from scream-inducing roller coasters, to gentle attractions for children.

9. Mt. Nokogiri Hiking

If you are looking for a refreshing hiking experience near metropolitan Tokyo, Mt. Nokogiri could be a good option. Its easy access from Tokyo and the famous jagged cliff lookout point attracts many nature-seekers from neighbouring urban areas.

10. Kawagoe

Located less than an hour from Tokyo, here you are able to walk the streets of “Little Edo,” which are lined with historical buildings where you can enjoy great local foods and seasonal festivals.

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Best Day Trips From Tokyo

Take a day trip from Tokyo to check out superb temples and shrines in Nikko and Kamakura, gaze at the perfect cone of Mt Fuji, or even hop on the bullet train to Kyoto. Here, we introduce these famous and some not-so-famous day trip destinations from Tokyo.

Best Day Trips From Tokyo Overview

• Nikko is home to some of Japan's most colorful temples and shrines.
• Kamakura has a great collection of Zen temples and an impressive shrine.
• Mt Fuji is a good trip if you want to climb it or just lay eyes on the famous mountain.
• Hakone is a good day trip or overnight trip if you like art museums and hot springs.
• Kyoto is 2.5 hours from Tokyo by comfortable shinkansen (bullet train) so you can visit it in one long day (but we recommend staying at least one night).
• If you're travelling with children, Tokyo Disneyland is just minutes from downtown Tokyo. Other great theme parks within daytrip distance include Legoland Japan (Nagoya) and Universal Studios Japan (Osaka).
• For something different, you could try Enoshima Island, which is popular with Japanese but largely ignored by tourists.
• Finally, if you or your kids are a fan of Miyazaki’s great anime films, you shouldn’t miss the Ghibli Museum.

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Destination, check-in date, check-out date.

About 115km/70m north of Tokyo, Nikko is the home of several grand and gaudy shrines and temples that serve as mausoleum and monuments to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the greatest of all Japanese Shoguns. While most temples and many shrines in Japan are rather austere, these structures here are shockingly bright and ornate. And the entire complex is located in a forest of towering pine trees. Check the Tobu Train Line website for details on direct express trains and special train/temple/shrine admission passes. See our detailed Nikko Day Trip Itinerary for a complete guide to how to best spend your time in Nikko.

• Travel time/cost from Tokyo: 1 hour 41minutes, Y1360
• How to get there: Tobu Line "Kegon" Limited Express from Asakusa
• Best time to go: All year round
• Highlights: Soaring forests, colorful temples and shrines, nearby ones.

About 42km/26m southwest of Tokyo, Kamakura is a pleasant little seaside town that has a nice cluster of interesting sights. The 11-meter-high Daibutsu (Great Buddha) is an awesome sight and well worth a visit. Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gu Shrine is a spacious and impressive Shinto shrine near the middle of town. And, scattered all around you'll find lovely little Zen temples. Kamakura is easy to visit from Tokyo and is a nice change of pace from crowded and bustling Tokyo.

• Travel time/cost from Tokyo: 55 minutes, Y920
• How to get there: JR Yokosuka Line from Tokyo Station or Shinagawa
• Highlights: Daibutsu (Great Buddha), Zen temples, impressive shrine
• Our Full Guide: Kamakura Day Trip Itinerary

About 100km/62m west of Tokyo, Mount Fuji is the iconic symbol of Japan. While it's sometimes visible from tall buildings in Tokyo (on really clear days), if you're like most people, you want to get a closer look at the mountain or perhaps even climb it. During the climbing season, direct buses run from Shinjuku to the Fifth Station on the shoulder of the mountain. The rest of the year, buses run to towns around the base of the mountain.

• Travel time/cost from Tokyo: 2 hours 30 minutes, Y2700
• How to get there: Direct bus from Shinjuku
• Best time to go: 1 July to 14 September to climb, the rest of the year to visit
• Highlights: An awesome volcanic cone, sunrise from the summit, lakes at the base
• Mt Fuji Guide: Climbing or Visiting Mount Fuji From Tokyo
• Area Guide: A Day Trip to the Mt. Fuji Area: Lake Kawaguchiko

About 82km/51m southwest of Tokyo, Hakone is a sprawling collection of tourist sites spread over a mountainside and down to a lake. Sights include art museums and onsen, and the chance of good views of Mt Fuji on clear days. It’s possible to visit as a day trip, but many people choose to stay overnight.

• Travel time/cost from Tokyo: 90 minutes, about Y2000 (depending on route and ticket)
• How to get there: Odakyu Line from Shinjuku Station
• Highlights: Art museums, onsen, Mt Fuji views
• Our Full Guide: Hakone Day Trip Itinerary

About 377km/234m west of Tokyo, Kyoto is the cultural capital of Japan and it is a must-see destination! It would be a real shame to come to Japan and not visit Kyoto, especially if you don't plan on returning for a while. While you should try to spend as long as possible in Kyoto, if you have limited time, you can actually visit Kyoto as a day trip from Tokyo. Sure, it will be a long day, but if you leave around 8am, you can do 6 hours of sightseeing in Kyoto and be back in Tokyo in time for a late dinner. And because the shinkansen (bullet trains) are so comfortable, it's not even that tiring.

• Travel time/cost from Tokyo: 2 hours 20 minutes, Y13,080 (see Tokyo-Kyoto Transport Page for full details)
• How to get there: Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo Station or Shinagawa
• Highlights: Temples, shrines, gardens, geisha, everything!
• Our Guide: InsideKyoto.com

Tokyo Disneyland

About 12km/7m west of Tokyo, Tokyo Disneyland is a must-see attraction for many families visiting Japan. It’s as good as any Disneyland anywhere, and you’ll find all the famous attractions you’d expect. And, right next door, you’ll find DisneySea, a marine-themed amusement park that deserves a full day to enjoy.

• Travel time/cost from Tokyo: about 25 minutes, Y480
• Highlights: Rides, characters, parades, fattening food!
• Our Tokyo Disneyland Guide: Tokyo Disneyland Guide
• Our DisneySea Guide: Tokyo DisneySea Guide

Legoland Japan and Maglev Museum

About 275km/170m southwest of Tokyo, Legoland Japan is located in the harbor area of Nagoya, which is just 1 hour and 40 minutes from Tokyo (you change to a local rail line for the journey from Nagoya Station down to Legoland). It’s a great attraction for younger kids. And, nearby, you’ll find the excellent SMMAGLEV and Railway Park, which is a world-class train museum. You can visit these as a daytrip from Tokyo if you get an early start. Otherwise, spend one night in Nagoya.

• Travel time/cost from Tokyo: 2 hours 15 minutes, Y10,710
• How to get there: Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo Station or Shinagawa, followed by the Aonami Line
• Highlights: Rides, Japan in Lego, train museum
• Legoland Japan Guide: Legoland Japan Guide
• Maglev Museum Guide: Nagoya’s SCMAGLEV and Railway Park: A Full Guide

Universal Studios Japan

About 410km/254m southwest of Tokyo, Universal Studios Japan is located on the waterfront of Osaka. It’s arguably the best theme park in Japan, especially since they built the wonderful Wizarding World of Harry Potter attraction. It's not really a day trip, but you could overnight there and return to Tokyo if you wished, or spend a night or two in Osaka to explore the city.

• Travel time/cost from Tokyo: 3 hours 10 minutes, Y13,620
• How to get there: Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo Station or Shinagawa to Osaka, then subway, then JR Osaka Loop Line and JR Yumesaki Line
• Highlights: Rides, shows, themed attractions, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter
• Our Guide: Universal Studios Japan Guide

Located to the southeast of Tokyo, the Izu Peninsula has all the elements for a great adventure – fantastic hiking trails, rugged cliffs, the deep blue of the Pacific Ocean. We recommend an overnight trip to Shimoda, a charming coastal town on the east side of the Izu peninsula. A compact little town with a ton of history and delicious seafood, Shimoda makes a great getaway from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo.

• Travel time / cost from Tokyo: 2 and a half hours to three hours, Y6390
• How to get there: Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo Station
• Our Guide: Shimoda Overnight Trip Itinerary

Enoshima Island

About 50km/31m southwest of Tokyo, the island of Enoshima is a small island connected to the mainland by a causeway. It’s been a tourist attraction for as long as there have been tourists in Japan. This means it’s rather overdeveloped and slightly tacky, but in the right mood, it can be a lot of fun. And, it can easily be combined with a trip to nearby Kamakura (see earlier on this page).

• Travel time/cost from Tokyo: about 2 hours and 30 minutes, Y810
• How to get there: Odakyu Line to Katase, then Enoshima Line
• Best time to go: All year round (best in good weather, though)
• Highlights: shrine, gardens, caves, beach, Mt Fuji views (on very clear days)
• Our Guide: Enoshima Island Day Trip Itinerary

Ghibli Museum (and Inokashira-koen Park)

About 18km/11m west of Tokyo in the suburb of Mitaka, the Ghibli Museum is a must for any fan of Hayao Miyazaki’s magical anime films like “My Neighbor Totoro” or “Spirited Away.” The museum is as magical as his films and adults will enjoy it as much as children. The museum is located in Inokashira-koen Park, which is a huge expanse of fields, forests and lakes that will come as a relief after a few days in the urban madness of Tokyo.

• Travel time/cost from Tokyo: about 50 minutes, Y600
• How to get there: JR Chuo Line then bus
• Highlights: Ghibli Museum, lovely park, lake
• Our Guide: Inokashira-koen Park and Ghibli Museum and How To Get Ghibli Museum Tickets

Shuzenji Onsen

About 150km/93m southeast of Tokyo in the Izu Peninsula, the Shuzenji Onsen is a charming hot spring resort with all the elements for a great adventure – fantastic hiking trails, rugged cliffs, the deep blue of the Pacific Ocean, and dozens of great little towns to explore. While it's theoretically doable as a day trip, it's far better to take a train out and stay overnight in one of the little towns on the peninsula.

• Travel time/cost from Tokyo: 2 hours and 30 minutes, Y4920
• How to get there: JR Tokyo Station to Mishima Station and Shuzenji Station then bus
• Best time to go: All year round (best in spring and autumn)
• Highlights: Shuzenji Onsen, fantastic hiking trails, rugged cliffs, great little towns to explore
• Our Guide: Shuzenji Onsen Overnight Trip Itinerary

Tokyo Vacation Checklist

• For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Tokyo guide
• Check Tokyo accommodation availability and pricing on Booking.com and Agoda.com - often you can book with no upfront payment and free cancellation
• Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Tokyo
• You can buy shinkansen (bullet train) tickets online from Klook - popular routes include Tokyo to Kyoto , Tokyo to Osaka and Tokyo to Hiroshima
• You can buy a Japan SIM card online for collection on arrival at Tokyo Narita or Haneda airports. Or rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
• See my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
• Compare airline flight prices and timings for the best Japan flight deals . Check my guides to arriving at Narita Airport and at Haneda Airport .
• If you're visiting more than one city, you might save money with a Japan Rail Pass – see if it's worth it for you
• A prepaid Welcome Suica card makes travelling around Tokyo much easier - here's how
• World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world

Tokyo District Map

• Imperial Palace Area
• Tokyo Station
• Shimbashi Shiodome Hamamatsucho Shinagawa
• Akihabara Kanda
• Roppongi Akasaka
• Harajuku Aoyama
• Ebisu Daikanyama Meguro

Disclosure: trulytokyo.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com and amazon.co.uk. World Nomads provides travel insurance for travellers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

• Destinations

26 Best Day Trips from Tokyo

Best One-Day Tours and Activities from Tokyo

Planning your trip to Tokyo?? Although Tokyo offers countless tourist attractions, the surrounding areas of Tokyo are very much worth visiting. To see and understand the different side of Japan, I highly recommend you to take at least 1 day trip from Tokyo to explore great neighbours. Taking a day trip is also a good idea if you want to escape from the bustling city for relax.

There are many wonderful places that can be easily accessed from Tokyo such as Mt Fuji, Hakone, Kamakura and flower parks. In this article, I’m going to introduce some of the most recommended day trip tours and destinations from Tokyo. So let’s check them out!

*Please note that this article contains affiliate links.

1. Hakone and Mt Fuji: Must-See Classic Route

Mount Fuji and Hakone are two of the most popular destinations for day trips from Tokyo. Needless to say, Mt. Fuji is a symbol of Japan and has many wonderful spots where you can fully enjoy its grandeur. Hakone, one of Japan’s leading hot spring towns, is the perfect place to enjoy the tranquil nature and view of Mt. Fuji.

Related articles: Best Thing to Do around Mt Fuji Hakone: 10 Best Things to Do

With the “ Mt Fuji and Hakone One Day Trip ” tour, you can visit these two spots in one day which might be tough to do by yourself. Enjoy the magnificent view of mount Fuji from several locations, and spend a pleasant time in the beautiful nature in Hakone, all in one day!

This full day tour includes delicious lunch, ropeway cable car into Owakudani Volcanic Valley and pirate ship cruise along the Ashinoko Lake. You’ll also visit the Fifth Station at Mount Fuji and enjoy spectacular views of the landscape below.

Book tour ▶ Mt Fuji and Hakone One Day Trip

2. See Wisteria at Ashikaga City

Ashikaga City, Tochigi Prefecture is one of the best travel destinations in Japan in spring. The famous flower event, Great Wisteria Festival is held annually at the flower theme park, Ashikaga Flower Park, displaying over 350 wisteria trees and other seasonal flowers. The park is also chosen as one of three greatest illumination spots in Japan. The park hosts an annual illumination event during winter, featuring over 5 million colourful LED lights at the vast park of 100,000 square meters.

Ashikaga City is not only about the flower park but the city itself is very attractive and definitely worth spending some time. The city is known as a birth place of the Ashikaga clan, the powerful shogunate that ruled Japan for about 240 years ( 1333 to 1573 ). Therefore, the city is home to several important historic monuments including temples and Ashikaga School.

More info ▶ Best Things to Do in Ashikaga, Tochigi

3. Fukushima

Now it’s about time to explore one of Japan’s best kept secrets. Fukushima Prefecture is situated in the southernmost of Tohoku region and approximately 200 km from Tokyo. Most of people recognizes Fukuoka as the disaster area striken by the terrifying Tohoku earthquake and tsunami and the nuclear accident in 2011, yet now it’s totally safe to visit there and there are so much to offer tourists. Fukushima is the third largest prefecture in Japan and is rich in attractions including historical sites, beautiful nature, local cuisine, traditional crafts and leisure activities.

Related article: Best Things to Do in Fukushima

To learn and understand the latest situation of Fukushima’s disaster area, it’s highly recommended to join “ Fukushima Exclusion Zone Day Tour from Tokyo: Get within 20km of the Nuclear Power Plant ” operated by Japan Wonder Travel. The tour allows you to visit the coastal towns of Fukuoka, approx 20km away from the nuclear power plant, witness the impact of the disaster, and reflect on the resilience of the local community. The tour is led by an English/Japanese speaking guide. It leaves from Tokyo Station in the morning and come back in the evening. Click the link below to get more information about this highly rated day trip tour!

Book tour ▶ Fukushima Exclusion Zone Day Tour from Tokyo: Get within 20km of the Nuclear Power Plant

4. Chureito Pagoda

Chureito Pagoda is a five storied pagoda located at at Asakura Sengen Shrine in Fujiyoshida City, Yamanashi Prefecture. It’s one of the most picturesque spots in Japan as the breathtaking view of 5 storied red pagoda and Mt Fuji can be captured. With the surrounding nature changing its colours, the different scenery can be enjoyed at the site in each season, for example during cherry blossoms and autumn leaves seasons.

If you wish to visit Chureito Pagoda along with other attractions around Mt Fuji in one day, it’s highly recommended to join a day trip tour so you can save your time and experience the wonderful Mt Fuji! “ Mt. Fuji Day Trip from Tokyo Bus Tour ” by Japan Wonder Travel is a full-day guided tour that you can enjoy breathtaking views of Mt Fuji from several different spots including Chureito Pagoda. With a smooth and comfortable bus ride, you will be able to see and visit the best highlights of Mt Fuji in one day. The tour also includes lunch with a delicious local specialty!

Booking ▶ Mt. Fuji Day Trip from Tokyo Bus Tour 

5. Kiryu City, Gunma

Kiryu is a city located in Gunma Prefecture, lies about 90 km northwest of Tokyo and at the border with Ashikaga City, Tochigi Prefecture. The city of Kiryu is a place with an abundance of nature, having the Watarase river and Kiryu river running within the city. The city is located in the foothills of Nikko and Mount Akagi.

Besides the rich natura, Kiryu City also has a deep history and served important role in past. The city developed during Edo period with the silk textile industry which was originally introduced by Kyoto. By the orders of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the town of Kiryu-shinmachi was created and because of this, the area developed even more to become a textile city. In 2012, the well-reserved historic buildings of Kiryu was designated to “Important Traditional Buildings Preservation District” in Kanto area and became a main tourist interest today.

More info ▶Best Things to Do in Kiryu, Gunma

6. Kamakura and Enoshima: Explore the Historical Coastal Town

Kamakura is a beautiful historic city in the south coast of Kanagawa Prefecture. It’s a popular side trip destination where you can access within 1 hour from Tokyo. Kamakura is often called the East of Kyoto as there are numbers of historic monuments in the town.

Related article: Kamakura : 10 Best Things to Do

Through the “Kamakura and Enoshima Day Tour from Tokyo” tour, you can learn about Kamakura’s rich history as you explore the town and its historical monuments such as temples and shrines with an English-speaking guide. The tour also includes a visit to the touristic island, Enoshima where you might capture the stunning sunset overlooking the peaceful waters of Shonan in the end of the tour.

Book tour ▶ Kamakura and Enoshima Day Tour from Tokyo

7. Hitachi Seaside Park

Hitachi Seaside Park is one of the best places to visit in Japan to enjoy seasonal flowers. The vast 350 ha flower field is filled with blue nemophila flowers while the kochia turns the field burning red in autumn.

With the “Hitachi National Seaside Park and Ashikaga Flower Park or Mito Kairakuen Park Trip from Tokyo”, you can immerse yourself in blooming flowers at Hitachi National Seaside Park and visit several spots for fun seasonal experiences. The tour will also stop at Mito Kairakuen Park (one of three greatest Japanese gardens), Ashikaga Flower Park (famous for wisteria) or an orchard for fruit picking depending on the time of the year. This full-day bus tour includes all-you-can-eat and drink lunch and transportation from Tokyo.

Book tour ▶ Hitachi National Seaside Park and Ashikaga Flower Park or Mito Kairakuen Park Trip from Tokyo

8. Cruise around Yokohama with Food

The capital city of Kanagawa Prefecture, Yokohama can be accessed within 30 mins from central Tokyo by train . Yokohama is the second largest city in Japan and offers countless entertainments that visitors would never get bored of. One of the best attractions of Yokohama is its beautiful bay area with stunning waterfront buildings.

Related article: Yokohama: Best things to Do

The “Yokohama Marine Rouge / Sea Bass Cruise” offers you an exciting cruise trip away from the hustle and bustle of the city. As you cruise around Yokohama Bay, you will capture the astonishing view of Yokohama and some landmarks such as Cosmo Clock 21 Ferris Wheel and the Bay Bridge. There are two types of cruise available; Marine Rouge the luxury lunch/dinner cruise or Sea Bass the sightseeing cruise.

Book tour ▶ Yokohama Marine Rouge / Sea Bass Cruise

9. Fuji Q Highland

Play hard all day at the craziest amusement park in Japan! Fuji Q Highland offers several world’s record-breaking roller coasters and scary rides ! It’s a perfect place to visit for adrenaline seekers 🙂

Related article: Fuji-Q Highland Guide: Best Things to Do

Don’t worry, Fuji Q Highland also has many attractions that kids also can enjoy including the character themed area and non scary rides. Moreover, the park is located at the foot of Mt Fuji, so visitors can enjoy the magnificent view of the mountain while enjoying the attractions!

Book ticket ▶ Fuji-Q Highland Instant E-Tickets

10. Yamanashi: Mt Fuji and Fruit Picking

Yamanashi Prefecture is home to Mt Fuji and there are numbers of attractions that you can enjoy the stunning view of the mountain. Yamanashi is famous for the production of wide variety of fruits and at some orchards, visitors can enjoy fruit picking during the harvest season.

Related article: Yamanashi: 10 Best Things to Do

The “Oishi Park & Mt. Fuji One Day Tour with Fruit Picking from Tokyo” is a full-day tour which you can fully enjoy Mt Fuji including a visit to Oishi Park near Lake Kawaguchi and Mt Fuji 5th Station, and a panoramic ropeway ride. The tour also includes fruit picking in an orchard in Yamanashi where you can enjoy seasonal fruits as much as you like!

Book tour ▶ Oishi Park & Mt. Fuji One Day Tour with Fruit Picking from Tokyo

11. Kawagoe: Time Travel to Edo Period

Kawagoe is a city in Saitama Prefecture, which can be accessed from the central Tokyo in about 30 mins by train. Kawagoe is an old castle town from Edo Period and known for its old clay buildings called Kurazukuri. At the Warehouse District (Kurazukuri no Machinami), visitors can enjoy the charming and nostalgic townscape including well-preserved warehouse buildings and the Bell Tower (Toki no Kane) the landmark of Kawagoe. There is also a Kashiya Yokocho (Candy Alley) is a small street lined with traditional Japanese sweet shops. At this Little Edo town, you can enjoy shopping and eat-out while immering yourself into the historical site and the nostalgic atmosphere!

More info ▶ Kawagoe: 10 Best Things to Do in Little Edo

12. Atami: Charming Seaside Onsen Town

Atami is a hot spring town located by the coast of Izu Peninsula in Shizuoka Prefecture. It’s been one of the most popular Onsen getaways from Tokyo for a couple of decades. Atami can be reached within one hour from Tokyo by Shinkansen (bullet train) or also by Tokaido Line which takes around 100–120 mins.

There are numbers of Onsen facilities and authentic Japanese style Ryokan gathered within the town as well as numbers of tourist attractions such as the beach, Atami Castle, museums, restaurants and souvenir shops.

More info ▶ 10 Best Things to Do in Atami

13. Tokyo Disney Resort

Tokyo Disney Resort consists of two world’s greatest Walt Disney amusement parks: Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea. In addition, there are also shopping malls and hotels within this resort complex. Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea are simply a dream destination for Disney lovers and where you can escape from a daily life to have a magical experience.

Although the name suggests “Tokyo”, the parks are located in Urayasu City, Chiba Prefecture which is just outside of Tokyo. Both parks offers numbers of fun themed attractions as well as the Disney character merchandise collections which are hugely popular among visitors.

Related articles: Tokyo Disneyland & DisneySea Event Schedule 

Buy ticket ▶ Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea Tickets

14. Sanrio Puroland

If Disney characters are not for you, then how about Sanrio characters?? Sanrio is a Japanese company that produces numbers of beloved characters such as Hello Kitty, My Melody, Gudetama, Cinnamoroll, Pompompurin and more, and these characters are popular around the world.

Sanrio Puroland, a.k.a. Hello Kitty Themed Park is a Sanrio character themed park featuring Sanrio character themed attractions, shows, restaurants and special merchandise collections that Sanrio fans shouldn’t miss.

Related Article: Sanrio Puroland : Hello Kitty Theme Park in Tokyo!

The park is located in Tama City in the outskirts of Tokyo, and the nearest train station is Keio Tama Center Station (Keio Line) which can be accessed in 20 mins from Shinjuku Station.

Buy ticket ▶ Sanrio Puroland E-Tickets for Hello Kitty Theme Park

15. Nikko Cultural Day Tour from Tokyo

Nikko is a small, beautiful city in Tochigi Prefecture. It’s known for Nikko Toshogu Shrine, one of the most important and commendable historic sites in Japan. If you are interested in Japanese history, this is one of the must-visit spots around Tokyo.

Related article: Nikko : Best Things to Do

▶︎Check out How to Get to Nikko from Tokyo in this article!

Besides the UNESCO World Heritage historical sites, Nikko has beautiful nature spots such as Kegon Waterfall and Lake Chuzenji which are especially popular during the autumn leaves season when the surrounding mountain are tinted by warm colours. With this day-trip bus tour “Nikko Cultural Day Tour from Tokyo”, you can visit famous historical and nature attractions of Nikko in one day!

Book tour ▶ Nikko Cultural Day Tour from Tokyo

16. Doraemon Museum

Fujiko·F·Fujio Museum a.k.a. Draemon Museum is dedicated to one of the greatest manga writer in the history, Fujiko F Fujio. Fujiko F Fujio is the creater of Doraemon and many other well known characters, and he has inspired many manga artists around the world for decades.

The exhibition includes numbers of treasure pieces of work of Fujiko (mainly Doraemon) and his original artworks, sketches and short films. English guidance is available at the museum. Fujiko·F·Fujio Museum is located in Kawasaki City, which can be accessed within 20 mins from central Tokyo, and it’s convenient even for a half-day trip.

The museum can be entered only with an advance reservation, so make sure to purchase tickets in beforehand.

Book ticket ▶ Fujiko F Fujio Museum Ticket Tokyo

17. Kusatsu Onsen: Authentic Onsen Experience

Japan has quite a few Onsen towns across the country with great quality hot spring water and resort facilities. Kusatsu in Gunma prefecture is one of the most popular Onsen towns in Japan, and can be accessed from Tokyo within a few hours.

The famous landmark of the town, Yubatake (means “Hot Water field”) is the main source of hot spring water of Kusatsu a popular photo spot among visitors. A huge amount of steam rising up from Yubatake creates an amazing scenery with the old-fashioned townscape of Kusatsu. If you wish to have authentic Onsen experience around Tokyo, Kusatsu would be the right place to go.

More info ▶ Kusatsu Onsen: Best Things to Do

18. Mt Takao Climbing

Mt Takao is the most accessible hiking spot from the city center. The 600m-high mountain is located in the outskirt of Tokyo and attracts over 2.5 million visitors yearly.

Related article: Mt Takao : Best Hiking Spot in Tokyo!

Mt Takao is not too difficult to climb even for beginners. (you’ll see many children and elderly people climbing there!) There is also a cable car that takes you to the top of the mountain with scenic view. Enjoy walking through the pleasant nature and the glorious view from the top of the mountain. You may have a chance to see Mt Fuji is the visibility is good!

Book ticket ▶ Keio One-Day Ticket with Mt. Takao Cable Car and Chair Lift Tickets

19. Yokosuka: the Port City with an Unique Atmosphere

Yokosuka is a port city in Kanagawa Prefecture, situated on Miura Peninsula bordered by Tokyo Bay and Sagami Bay. Being a site for the US navy base, the city has an unique and exotic atmosphere with a mix of Japanese and American cultures.

The main shopping street is called Dobuita-Dori which is lined with numbers of American style bars, restaurants and shops. You can also find a wide variety of Suka Jan (Japanese souvenir jacket) which was originated in Yokosuka City. Yokosuka is also a great city to taste local seafood. The coastal city offers an abundance of seafood and there are many eateries offering delicious fresh seafood dishes.

20. Shizuoka Tea Farm Tour with Factory Visit and Tea Tasting

Shizuoka is Japan’s largest green tea producing area and there are a lot of tea plantations. Visit the beautiful tea farm and have fresh tea tasting several types of Japanese tea! You can enjoy strolling around a tea farm in the mountains of Shizuoka, with stunning views of mountain ranges.

Booking ▶ Shizuoka Tea Farm Tour with Factory Visit and Tea Tasting

21. Odawara Castle Town Food Tour and Geisha Kaiseki Dinner

If you are into Japanese culture and history and fascinated by Samurai, Ninja and Geisha, then this tour is highly recommended! You can have full-day cultural experience with this tour including an entrance of Odawara Castle, taste traditional local food, samurai costume and the exclusive kaiseki dinner with beautiful geisha performance.

Booking ▶ Odawara Castle Town Food Tour and Geisha Kaiseki Dinner

22. Northern Nagano: Meet the Snow Monkeys

Visit Nagano Prefecture and meet the famous cheeky snow monkeys at Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park! The bathing snow monkeys are one of the most unique sights you can see in Japan and must be on everyone’s bucket list.

Related article: Jigokudani Monkey Park: Meet Snow Monkeys

The “Snow Monkey Tour from Tokyo with Beef Sukiyaki Lunch ” is a one day tour that features amazing highlights in northern Nagano prefecture. You can enjoy a scenic and comfortable bus ride, indulge in a delicious and authentic Japanese sukiyaki lunch then meet adorable monkeys at Jigokudani Monkey Park in Nagano Prefecture.

Book tour ▶ Snow Monkey Tour from Tokyo with Beef Sukiyaki Lunch

23. Hakone Kowakien Yunessun

Onsen is one of the top attractions in Japan, but many foreign tourists are worried about being naked in front of others in public bath. Moreover, onsens are usually separated by men and women, so they can not enjoy together with their opposite gender partner, family or friends.

At this massive Onsen spa resort, Yunessun, guests can enjoy a variety of onsen baths with their swimwear on (there are also naked zone, too). The swimwear zone is mixed-gender so couples, families and groups can enjoy bathing together. There are over 25 kinds of indoor and outdoor hot spring baths from traditional Japanese baths to unique ones such as sake, wine, coffee and green tea.

Buy ticket ▶ Hakone Kowakien Yunessun Onsen Theme Park E-Tickets

24. Sarushima Island

Sarushima a.k.a. the Monkey Island is a small uninhibited island situated off Yokosuka City, Kanagawa Prefecture. It’s one of the most accessible remote islands from the greater Tokyo, and can be accessed by a 10-minute boat ride from Mikasa Pier.

Sarushima is the only natural island on Tokyo Bay, offering unique and interesting tourist attractions such as fortress ruins, the stunning sandy beaches and rich nature. The island also has a deep history as it used to serve as  an artillery battery by the Tokugawa shogunate during the Edo period, and a part of the Yokosuka Navy Yard after the Meiji Restoration. The island was once abandoned, but it is open for public since 1995, and became a popular tourist destination.

25. Nomizo Falls: Photo-Worthy Nature Beauty

Nomizo Falls (also known as Kameiwa Cave) is a scenic nature spot located within Shimizu Keiryu Park in Kimitsu City, Chiba Prefecture. The astonishing scenery of the arch cave and the waterfall went sensationally viral on social media in recent years, and became a favourite spot for photographers. This waterfall and cave are so magical and fairytale-like as if they came from the world of Studio Ghibli films.

More info ▶Nomizo Falls: The Secret Instagram-Worthy Waterfall

26. Hot Air Balloon in Saitama

What an incredible way to watch the sunrise! Enjoy the sky trip by the hot air balloon and see the gorgeous view of the rural area just outside of Tokyo. In order to see the sunrise, the activity is held only early morning from 4am to 6am depending on the season.

Meeting Point: Saitama Prefecture

Book ▶ See the Sunrise from a Hot Air Balloon just outside Tokyo!

Planning to use the Bullet Train in Japan? Buy your ticket in advance!

Japan Bullet Train  is a new service launched by our partner company, which offers bullet train and express train tickets in Japan for tourists. All the service is in English (and 3 other languages), including customer service. They accept payments with all major credit cards, and the process is very easy and simple, especially compared to Japanese websites.

After your purchase, once your ticket is confirmed you will receive a QR code. You simply have to scan this QR code in the vending machines available at the main stations from where the bullet train departs and you will get your physical ticket, with which you can access the platform. All from the comfort of your smartphone.

▶︎ Book now your Shinkansen tickets!

Find the best day trips from Tokyo by season!

▶ One Day Trips from Tokyo in Spring ▶ One Day Trips from Tokyo in Summer ▶ One Day Trips from Tokyo in Autumn ▶ One Day Trips from Tokyo in Winter

Did you enjoy the list?? If you are visiting Tokyo, make sure to spare 1–2 days to explore beautiful neighbour cities! For more information about travelling in Tokyo and around, you may wanna check out these articles listed below, too!

▽Related Articles▽

"The world is my oyster" A globetrotter 🌎 and hammock lover 🌞 who loves taking adventures to fuel wanderlust. Born and raised in Japan, I have lived and explored countries around the world. As a resident of Japan and based on my travel experience, I'd love to share my knowledge and tips for travelling Japan with my readers. I hope my story will help you plan your trip and have a great time in Japan 🌈

• Things to Do

Best side trips from Tokyo for taking time out from the Big City

The world’s most populous metropolis has plenty to keep you entertained, from the bright lights and bustling streets of Shibuya to the ancient temples and craft shops of Asakusa. But if you’re looking for a change of pace, head to some of these unique destinations in Japan.

Jump on the efficient Shinkansen bullet train and head to the water for modern beachfront or harbourside hotels with epic views, or head inland to stay amidst lush forests at mountainside retreats. When you venture off the beaten track for a side trip from Tokyo, you’ll discover the secrets and surprises of the smaller towns surrounding the big city.

A side trip from Tokyo to Japan's second largest city

Designated a historic building by Yokohama City, Hotel New Grand Yokohama is one of the oldest Western hotels in Japan. First opened in 1927, it has hosted famous names from Babe Ruth to Charlie Chaplin. From its seat next to Yamashita Park and the waterside business district of Minato Mirai, it makes for a fascinating mix of modern and traditional spaces.

The magic begins when you step into the lobby of the original building, with soaring columns, ornate ceilings and luminous chandeliers that seem straight out of an old-world film set. You’ll find your room in the new annex tower block, where waffle-knit robes and fine linens await to set an urban spa vibe. All rooms have harbour views, but if you stay in the Upper Tower you can take in the lights from Yokahama Port too, not to mention dip into to the self-service executive lounge for a cheeky midday drink.

When you dine at the hotel’s Le Normandie restaurant, designed to reflect the interior of the SS Normandie, you’ll be treated to more breathtaking views alongside classic French fare like foie gras confit with cold vegetable barigoule. Alternatively, you can transport yourself to Italy with a caprese salad made with milky mozzarella. After your dinner, sip on a pint at on-site British bar Sea Guardian II, or opt for a whimsical scone and drink set at the hotel’s own La Terrasse.

Less than 30 minutes from Tokyo by train, Yokohama is known for its food and beer culture. Not to be missed is the Ramen Museum, devoted to Japan’s ubiquitous noodle, or you can head to Kirin Beer Village for a hops-infused brewery tour. If you’re not much of a drinker, stroll an easy four minutes to the NYK Maritime Museum, where you can explore the elegant interiors and decks of an ocean liner built in 1930.

Hotel New Grand

A waterfront side trip from tokyo in yokohama.

With waterfront views, Yokohama Bay Hotel is smack in the Minato Mirai area of Yokohama. Throw open the drapes on the floor-to-ceiling windows in your chic, contemporary room, or if you’ve booked a select space, step out onto your private balcony to take in the twinkling lights of the harbour.

Stay in a Luxury King and watch the Cosmo World Ferris Wheel turn from the comfort of your bathtub, or opt for the Grand Corner Suite for a curved wall of windows showcasing panoramic views of Yokohama Bay. If you’re after even more indulgence, book a room on the top three floors and be looked after with the Bay Club’s butler service, lounge and complimentary breakfast, cocktails and afternoon tea.

The dining options at Yokohama Bay will spoil you for choice, too. At Café Tosca, you’ll find an extensive buffet of fusion dishes set before towering windows looking out to Minato Mirai. Or pop into the Parisian-style garden at Queen Alice, where the chef prepares set menus with modern plates like foie gras sautée served with local daikon. If it’s Asian flavours you’re after, try Oshima for traditional Japanese cuisine like shabu shabu (almost like a broth fondue), or Turandot for award-winning Chinese cuisine from Chef Wakiya, one of the most celebrated chefs in Japan.

And to just relax? Take a leisurely swim in the hotel’s mosaic-tiled indoor pool, or soak in the Jacuzzi before sweating out any lingering cares in the sauna. Once you’re recharged and ready explore Yokohama, you can head to the city’s highest observation deck, Landmark Tower Sky Garden, or Kanteibyo, a temple built in 1873 in Japan’s biggest Chinatown just 15 minutes away by train.

The Yokohama Bay Hotel Tokyu

A luxury side trip from tokyo at a hot spring.

In the hot spring capital of Japan, Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort And Spa is ideal for a short trip from Tokyo’s frenetic energy. Slip into a traditional yukata robe and wooden slippers and head to the granite-lined onsen (a natural hot spring bath) to let the waters melt away the stresses of the city. Book a massage at Spa Izumi, with eight treatment rooms and walk-in mist saunas and showers. You’ll want to try the Blueberry Full Body Massage, which uses extra-virgin oil extracted from blueberry seeds.

For a traditional experience, stay in a Regency Suite Tatami with futon beds, tatami flooring and low-rise seating. Or if reclining on a balcony with an evening cocktail is more your vibe, opt for a stay in a Twin Bed Mountain View Room. Don your Japanese robe and relax in your comfy, carpeted room bathed in natural light during the day. Wander to the on-site Living Room for a fireside snack, washed down with a Hakone Shichito Red Ale, and keep your eye on the 18-year limited edition Fujisanroku whiskey for an after-dinner tipple.

And speaking of dinner, the French-trained Executive Chef at Berce will be glad to serve you a set menu of classic French dishes. Or if you prefer a view, head to the elegant Dining Room and dine on Western plates like Cajun blackened Tasmanian salmon or Wagyu A4 beef tenderloin.

When you feel like seeing the sights, you can take in Hakone’s natural scenery on the mountain railway (the only one in Japan), which leaves from Hakone-Yumoto station. Closer to the hotel, Hakone Gora Park is 16 minutes by foot and is the site of a Japanese tea house, where you can experience the splendour of a traditional tea ceremony.

Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort And Spa

A side trip from tokyo at the foot of mt fuji.

Hotel Mars Garden Wood is just over an hour from the centre of Tokyo and is the gateway to Mount Fuji and Hakone. Explore the lava-formed Fuji Five Lakes and the mountainous Hakone region with its hot springs, dense forests and traditional shrines. As for the hotel, you’ll find it surrounded by gardens, a lake filled with koi fish and sparkling fountains – don’t miss the spectacular fountain light show at night!

For dinner, head to the hotel’s high-end Italian restaurant, Fenice, and dine on delicate dishes beautifully presented with edible flowers. At the Ginmeisui Teppan-yaki grill, you’ll watch premium cuts of meat and seafood prepared in front of you – choose from grilled Kobe or Wagyu beef, as well as spiny lobster and abalone served with garlic fried rice.

In your clean, uncluttered guest room, sink into your armchair or sumptuous queen bed and gaze through the window at the sacred volcanic peak that has inspired so many works of art. For a relaxing escape, book a room with its own open-air bath and soak in the shadow of Mt Fuji from your tub. You can indulge in the full onsen experience at the hotel’s own spacious open-air spring – called a rotenburo – surrounded by bamboo privacy screens. When your body and soul are satisfied, you can get your shopping fix at Japan’s biggest outlet mall, Gotemba Premium Outlet, just a 10-minute drive away and great for picking up spoils from your Mt Fuji day trip.

Mars Garden Wood Gotemba

A beach break side trip from tokyo.

In the seaside city of Kamakura just south of Tokyo, stay at Prince Kamakura and you’ll have views of two of Japan’s most famous sights – Mt Fuji and Enoshima Island. You’ll feel a world away from bustling Tokyo streets as you unwind in your room’s calming shades of sand and blue, with floor-to-ceiling windows providing a seamless transition to Shichirigahama Beach in Sagami Bay. Book a room on the third or fourth floor for the best views of the two iconic natural landmarks.

On-site French restaurant Le Trianon features sea views and fresh ingredients like succulent lobster straight from Sagami Bay. Or you can try a traditional multi-course kaiseki meal at the hotel’s Japanese restaurant before retreating to Lounge Ajisai for a quiet evening drink.

As for entertainment, you can work on your golf game at the Shichirigahama Golf Driving Range, a 280-yard-long range with 132 tees just next to the hotel. In summer, the afternoons are best spent beside the outdoor 25-metre swimming pool and Jacuzzi before taking a barefoot stroll along the seashore.

To get out and explore, drive just 13 minutes to the ancient city of Kamakura to visit the awe-inspiring Kōtoku-in temple. If you’re coming in spring and you’re in luck, you’ll arrive in time to see the famous cherry blossoms in bloom in Myoutoike Park.

Hotel Prince Kamakura

A side trip from tokyo for disney dreamers.

Just 25 kilometres east of the capital, Tokyo Disneyland Hotel is a magical treat for the young or young at heart. The hotel faces Tokyo Disneyland Park, meaning you’re as close to the park as hotels get, plus you’ll be able to travel there directly by monorail. To sleep, choose a whimsical Character Room based on your favourite Disney icon. Are you a fan of the Tinker Bell Room, decorated with oversized flowers and plants? Or perhaps the Alice in Wonderland Room, influenced by the Queen of Hearts and Cheshire Cat, is more your style.

The park is sure to work up an appetite, so grab a Mickey Mouse plate and tuck in at the colourful Sherwood Garden Restaurant buffet. For something more refined, head to Canna to dine on pan-fried sea bass and braised Malabar spinach, or grilled beef rump with grilled corn mash. During the day, you can channel Mary Poppins and indulge in a traditional Victorian High Tea in the Dreamers Lounge in the hotel’s grand Atrium Lobby.

Make wishes come true at the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, where kids can be transformed into Disney Princesses before popping next door to Magic Memories Photo for a portrait keepsake. Stroll the grounds to the outdoor pool based on Peter Pan’s tick-tocking crocodile, or Alice’s Garden with topiary trees shaped like playing card suits. To complete your Disney experience, ask the hotel staff to arrange a bonus visit to Tokyo DisneySea.

Tokyo Disneyland Hotel

A side trip from tokyo set in an orchard.

True to its name, Fruit Park Fujiya Hotel is surrounded by cherry, apple and pear trees. In the centre of Yamanashi Prefecture, it’s about an hour-and-40-minute drive from Tokyo, making it a great option if you’re looking for a side trip that lets you explore more of this wondrous country.

Sample the region’s fruity fare, like the famous peach parfait, at the hotel’s Bella Vista Café while you overlook manicured grounds dotted with blossoming trees in the spring. Make sure to save room for dinner though, as you’ll also find French cuisine at La Collina, Japanese seafood at Fuefukigawa and sizzling teppanyaki at Keyaki (all on-site). Once your appetite is satiated, continue your evening at the hotel’s very own night spot, Prim Lows – knock back a tasty cocktail to build up the confidence for your Japanese karaoke debut!

When it comes to resting your head, you’ll do it Japanese-style in a yukata robe on your very own futon bed flanked by rice-paper sliding doors and traditional tatami mats. Or you can go the Western route with twin beds, a comfortable sofa and a desk. Whichever you opt for, you’ll bask in panoramas across the Kofu Basin and Kai Mountain Range – choice rooms even look towards Mount Fuji!

Soothe your muscles in the hot spring waters of the hotel’s indoor and open-air onsens with views over the natural greenery and mountains, then try a Chinese massage at the on-site spa. Should you care to head off-site, Kasugai Golf Club is a 10-minute drive away. You’ll find fascinating museums close by too, like the Yamanashi Prefectural Museum of Art and the Museum of Literature.

Fruit Park Fujiya Hotel

Japan ‎ >  Tokyo  >  Top Day Trips From Tokyo

• Tokyo Overview
• Best Day Trips
• Suggested Itineraries

Top Day Trips From Tokyo:

Japan has one of the fastest and most efficient train systems in the world, which makes doing day trips from Tokyo extremely easy.  Traveling at a brisk 200-300 miles per hour helps put almost any side trip within striking distance.  You can visit the Japanese Alps, the mighty Mount Fuji Volcano, hot spring villages, beaches, or even the exotic snow monkeys in a day and still be back in Tokyo in time for dinner.  With all of the wonderful options and ease of travel it’s almost like the country is begging you to explore, so do it!  Hope you enjoy our top day trips from Tokyo!

Train Tickets & Transportation Info:

All of our suggested day trips from Tokyo are directly connected to the town by bus or train making it very easy.  While you can buy tickets right at the train station, if you re planning on doing many side trips or staying in multiple cities across Japan, then consider getting a rail pass before you arrive.  A  Japanese Rail Pass  ( website ) covers all of your travel in a designated period ( 7, 14, or 21 days ) and usually pays for itself after little more than a round-trip journey between Tokyo and Kyoto making your other travel free.

To help with planning your side trip transportation,  HyperDia  ( website ) is very helpful as they have the most extensive timetables and route information.  You can also filter out the “Nozomi & Mizuho” trains which is important if you are traveling by a JR Rail Pass as they aren’t covered.  If you aren’t staying right by Tokyo Station, make sure to enter the train station closest to your hotel like Shinkuju.

Best Day Trips From Tokyo:

1. nikko ( 2 hours away ):.

About Nikko :  With a prime mountain location, the Buddhist monk Shōdō was inspired to build Rinno-ji Temple here in 766AD which quickly became a point of pilgrimage.  The village of Nikko slowly grew around the holy site which expanded a series of  secluded temples shrines  surrounded by towering cedar trees.  When Emperor Meiji moved the capital of Japan from Kyoto to nearby Tokyo in 1868, the village of Nikko saw a tourism boom as a  mountain resort town .  Train service started shortly after in 1890 making Nikko even more accessible as a side trip to take from Tokyo.

Our favorite temple complex here is the Tōshō-gū Shrine from 1617AD which holds the tomb of Leyasu, the 3rd shogun of Nikko.  The shrine is also very famous for its carving of the  3 Wise Monkeys  who hear, speak and see no evil.  The carving is the most well known depiction of the ancient Chinese tale of the monkeys.

While the arching vermilion colored Shinkyo Bridge is on many of the postcards in Nikko, it is the lesser known  Kanmangafuchi Abyss  near the river we really love.  The hiking trail leads to a graveyard and is lined with 70 Jizo Buddha statues topped with red knit stocking caps.  The Abyss is rumored to be haunted by ghosts and visitors claim the number of statues changes each time you count them.

If you really want to see the mountains in Nikko you should consider 50-minute bus ride to Lake Chūzen-ji which formed 20,000 years ago when Mount Nantai erupted.  The winding road is a beautiful and thrilling experience which leads you to the roaring 318 foot tall  Kegon Waterfall  that feeds the lake.  Nikko is easily the top day trip from Tokyo!

Getting To Nikko From Tokyo :  2 hour direct train ride which is covered by the JR Rail Pass.   Rating as a Day Trip From Tokyo :  10 out of 10.

2. Hakone ( 85-120 Minutes Away ):

About Hakone :  Located between Tokyo and Mount Fuji is the wonderful volcanic town of Hakone.  The village sits over a series of thermal vents and hot springs which have produced some very  famous onsen spas .  One of the coolest ones has a pool filled with warm red wine and another with green tea which are great experiences.

While in Hakone you can also take the ropeway cable car up the mountainside and over the thermal vents for a bird’s eye view of the alien landscape.  There are hiking trails between the vents and even some unique egg cooking stations.  Hakone is well known for its  hard boil eggs  cooked in the volcanic water which turns the shells from white to back during the process.

One a clear day you can also get great views of the iconic Mount Fuji from the ropeway, but the best views are from Lake Ashi.  The lake has taken the common ferry boat experience and bumped it up a notch with two huge pirate-like cruise vessels to take you out on the water.  With such a range range of sights, it’s no wonder the Hakone has become so popular over the decades as a top day trip from Tokyo.

Getting To Hakone From Tokyo :  It takes about 1 hour and 40 minute minutes with a train from Tokyo to Odawara followed by a transfer to the local bus line.  But and the ropeway cable car will get you from the onsens to the steam vents and lake.   Rating as a Side Trip From Tokyo :  9 out of 10.

3. Kamakura ( 75 Minutes Away ):

About Kamakura :  While Japan was ruled by shogun warlords in Medieval times, the most powerful of them was based in Kamakura.  These shoguns ruled much of Eastern Honshu from 1180-1330AD and the city served as a de facto capital of Japan during part of the span.  During a visit today, you can still get a feel of the power early Kamakura had with numeral ancient temples spanning much of the city.

Our favorite of the temples in Kamakura is Kōtoku-in which is famous of the  Great Buddha of Kamakura  statue.  The 44-foot-tall bronze statue was completed in 1252AD and has truly stood the test of time.  There were once a bounce of building making up the temple including a large hall around the statue which have all been ruined by storms in the 1300-1400s, but the statue lives on.  The statue, which has been open air since 1495, is hollow so you can climb inside and see the view from behind the eyes of the Buddha.

Being an oceanside town, Kamakura also has  our favorite beach  to visit on a day trip from Tokyo.  The shore of Shichirigahama Beach is wide with good sand and an amazing sunset.  In addition to the temples and beaches, there are also displays showing pottery found from the Stone Age as Kamakura has been inhabited since 8000BC.  Overall we still greatly prefer Nikko which is similar, but Kamakura is quick to get to and hiking between sights is a little easier.

Getting To Kamakura From Tokyo :  Only 75 minutes by train.   Rating As A Day Trip From Tokyo :  8.5 out of 10.

4. Kyoto ( 2 Hours and 15 Minutes Away ):

About Kyoto :  Kyoto is maybe the most magical place to visit in all of Japan and deserves a solid 3-4 days of your attention, but it can still be an amazing 1-day side trip from Tokyo if you are short on time.  Thanks to high speed rail the journey is now only just over 2 hours from Tokyo.  Kyoto served as the Imperial capital of the country from 794 until 1868 and is the best place to experience  old-world Japan .

From ancient temples, flowing rivers, towering bamboo forests, wild monkeys, old timber homes, and cobblestone alleys, the city of Kyoto is mysterious.  It was Kyoto’s beauty that saved it from WW2 air raids.  You’ll see  Geiko , the local term for Geisha, quickly popping out of traditional wooden tea houses, and can even pay to be dresses up like one yourself for the day.

There are countless festivals throughout the year, but the best times to visit are during the Fall colors of late Autumn and in the Spring for the beautiful  Sakura cherry blossoms  that engulf the town.  As you find peace in a zen garden or on a quiet afternoon stroll, you’ll notice that there is hidden symbolism everywhere in Kyoto.  While the squeaky nightingale floors of the Nijo Castle are impressive, our favorite attraction are the  10,000 vermilion gates  that line the mountain path up the Fushimi Inari Shrine.  If you are willing to explore and get lost Kyoto, it will be one of the best travel experiences of your life.

Getting To Kyoto From Tokyo :  High-speed train takes 2 hours and 15 minutes from Tokyo Station.  Add 30 minutes if leaving from Shinjuku Station.  Add an additional 25 minutes from either station if you need the Hikari high-speed train which is covered by the Japanese Rail Pass.   Rating as a Day Trip From Tokyo :  8.5 out of 10, but a 10 out of 10 if you can make it a couple day visit.

Read More :  Our Kyoto Travel Guide .

5. Mount Fuji ( 2.5-3 Hours Away ):

About Mount Fuji :  As the  tallest peak in the country  at 12,388 feet, Mount Fuji is the most iconic image of an everlasting Japan.  On a clear day you can easily see the huge volcano from Tokyo even though it is 3 hours away.  Mount Fuji ( known as Fuji-san ) can be a little difficult and time-consuming to visit as a day trip from Tokyo, but is very rewarding.

You need to be  flexible with your schedule , because you won’t be able to see the mighty mountain if it is a foggy day and it won’t be worth your time.  If the skies are clear, however, you will get stunning views of Mount Fuji from the surrounding lakes near its base.

Our favorite view is during early-April’s cherry blossom season next to the  Chureito Pagoda tower .  A little later in the month is the  Shibazakura Festival  from late April to late May when over 80,000 blooming Shibazakura flowers fill 6 acres of gently sloping hills with brilliant red, pink and white.  The ultimate Mount Fuji experience comes in July & August when the volcano’s hiking trails are open allowing you to visit the summit.

Hiking on the mountain is closed outside of the peak Summer for snow and safety reasons.  Most visitor hiking to the top will start in the afternoon and stay overnight at one of the mountain huts for a chance to watch the early morning  sunrise above the clouds .  You do need to plan ahead and be dressed properly for the hike, but it is one of the most rewarding things you can ever do on vacation.

Getting To Mount Fuji From Tokyo :  You can reach mount Fuji by express bus or by train.   Rating as a Day Trip From Tokyo :  8 out of 10, 10 out of 10 if visiting overnight in July/August to climb to the summit for sunrise.

6. Jigokudani Monkey Park ( 3 Hours ):

About Jigokudani Monkey Park :  If you want something that feels straight out of National Geographic, you need to visit the Jigokudani Monkey Park in the Winter to watch the  wild snow monkeys  relaxing in the thermal hot spring.  The snow monkeys, known as Japanese macaques, live in the dense forest of the surrounding mountains and come down to the warm springs in the Winter to stay warm.  If you are able to visit between late December and mid February you can expect to see dozens of monkeys relaxing in the warm water, bathing, and playing.

The monkey park opened in 1964 for the Olympics in nearby Nagano, but the larger park itself has been bringing in visitors for centuries.  Jigokudani ( Gee-Go-Coo-Donnie ) means  Hell Valley  which is evident by the year-round volcanic steam vents the flow from small cracks in the ground.  The landscape varies as you hike around the park from a lush forest to feeling like you are walking on an alien moon.

Getting To The Monkey Park From Tokyo :  Train to Nagano followed by a 40-minute bus ride and a 30-minute hike.   Rating as a Side Trip From Tokyo :  7.5 out of 10; a solid 9 out of 10 in the peak of Winter.   Website :   HERE .

7. Kawagoe City ( 30-45 Minutes ):

About Kawagoe City :  Known as Little Edo, the well-persevered village of Kawagoe is one of the best places to see what Tokyo looked like centuries ago  during the Edo Period  ( 1603-1867 ).  The old  Warehouse District  along Kurazukuri Street is lined with dozens of clay and wood walled buildings to make you feel like you have gone back in time.  The Warehouse District feels like it is straight out of a samurai movie and our favorite structure is the 4-story wooden bell tower which was rebuilt in 1894 after a fire.  On the West side of the Warehouse District is the pedestrian-only Kashiya Yokochō Street which became known as  Candy Lane  after the 1923 Earthquake hit Tokyo leaving Kawagoe as the main producer of Japanese sweets.

If you are a fan of Japanese history you may want to visit the  Kitain Temple  which known for its 533 Buddha statues.  The temple inspired third Tokugawa Shogun to take his reception hall and study from Edo Castle and move them here in the 1600s.  They are the only rooms remaining from the castle which later burned down, although the foundation is preserved in present-day Tokyo.  If you are visiting during Sakura cherry blossom season we highly suggest taking a  flatboat river tour  near the Hikawa Shrine as the pink flowered branches hang over the water.

Getting To The Park From Tokyo :  An easy 30-45 minute train right from Tokyo Station.  The Co-Edo Loop bus then goes from the station between the sights 2-3 times an hour.   Rating as a Side Trip From Tokyo :  7.5 out of 10.

8. Hitachi Seaside Park ( 85 Minutes Away ):

About Hitachi Seaside Park :  With colorful fields of plants and flowers that look  straight out of a Dr. Seuss book , the Hitachi Seaside Park is one of the coolest places to visit in Japan, especially for photographers.  The rolling hills and unique oceanfront location, make the park the perfect place for a wide variation of amazing plants.

While each month has different types of flowers that bloom there are a few that stand above the rest.  From late April to mid-May 4.5 million gorgeous  blue Nemophila flowers  fill the fields making it hard to know where the ground ends and the sky begins.  From early to mid-October the over 30,000  round Kochia bushes  which bloom green in the Summer gain a stunning pinkish red tint.  There is almost no better quick day trip from Tokyo on a warm sunny day during a blooming time.

Park Hours :  Tuesday-Sunday 9:30am-5pm; open until 6pm mid-Summer; Closed Mondays.   Park Website :   HERE .   Getting To The Park From Tokyo :  Takes 70 minutes to Katsuta Station then 15 by bus or taxi to the park.  Alternatively takes 2 hours to the park including a transfer to the Hitachi Seaside line followed by a walk.   Rating as a Side Trip From Tokyo :  7 out of 10.

9. Mount Takao ( 1 Hour Away ):

About Mount Takao :  Maybe the most popular day trip from Tokyo for locals, the sacred Mount Takao offers some great hiking less than an hour from the city center.  The wooded paths are easy to walk around and the scenery is especially beautiful in the Fall as the leaves change.  If your schedule is too tight to visit the woodland temples of Nikko then Mount Takao should be on your radar to get some nature hiking in.  You can hike from the base in 90 minutes and gentle paved trail or can take the ropeway halfway up and finish the hike from there.

Mountain Website :   Here .   Getting To Takao From Tokyo :  Takes 1 hour by train with a short cable car ride or lift halfway up the mountain.  You can also skip the lift and take any of the 90-minute hiking trails up.   Rating as a Day Trip From Tokyo :  7 out of 10; best during Fall colors.

10. Chiba Castle ( 1 Hour Away ):

About Chiba Castle :  The easiest place to check out a Japanese feudal castle from Tokyo is in the village of Chiba.  While the current castle is a  1975 re-creation  of the Otaki Castle that stood here from the 1600-1800s, Chiba Castle is still quite impressive and only an hour away.  Great attention to detail was taken in the reconstruction and we find the museum inside the castle 5 floors to be quite enjoyable.  Each year in September they also have a  huge festival  in the field below the Chiba Castle with parades and battling feudal armies.

If you have time to future explore greater Japan the well preserved Himeji Castle ( 90 minutes West of Kyoto ) is  by far the best  in the country and Matsumoto Castle ( 3 from Tokyo ) is also good, but both are much further away from Tokyo than Chiba.  If you are only looking to get a quick photo in front of a feudal castle and are also going to Hakone, consider a quick stop at Odawara Castle as you switch from the train to the local bus.

Castle Hours :  Tuesday-Sunday 9am-4:30pm; Closed Mondays.   Castle Website :   Here .   Getting To The Castle From Tokyo :  Takes 1 hour by train.   Rating as a Side Trip From Tokyo :  6.5 out of 10.

11. Tokyo Disney ( 20 Minutes Away ):

About Tokyo Disney :  While we usually avoid putting theme parks on our top day trips lists, the Tokyo Disney stands above the rest.  Opened in 1983, it is very similar to the parks in California and Hong Kong, but with the added touch of Japanese-level customer service.  On weekdays you will find the lines a lot short than in American, although it gets crowded on weekends and on Japanese holidays.  We also like the attached sea-themed park which opened in 2001.  Overall we do prefer to take day trips from Tokyo where you get more unique Japanese experiences and is why we kept it out of the top 10, but this Disney does not disappoint.

Park Hours :  Daily 9am-10pm; open at 8am on weekends; crowded on weekends and Japanese holidays.   Park Website :   Here .   Getting To The Park From Tokyo :  Takes 20 minutes by direct train.   Rating as a Day Trip From Tokyo :  6.5 out of 10.

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Disclaimer: Information on this page and in our walking tours were deemed accurate when published, however, details such as opening hours, rates, transportation, visa requirements, and safety can change without notice. Please check with any destinations directly before traveling.

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Discover the World

7 Best Day Trips From Tokyo

By Vanessa Holmes · Last updated on May 17, 2024

The bustling metropolis of Tokyo boasts an unending number of attractions to explore. From the impressive Imperial Palace to the Tsukiji fish markets to the eclectic street fashions of Harajuku, the Japanese capital is bursting with colors, sights and sounds. Fresh sushi, handmade ramen noodles and some truly thrilling nightlife means that there are many reasons to stay in Tokyo, and many visitors stay within the city while in Japan. However, taking day trips from Tokyo can allow for a more comprehensive view of Japanese culture, cuisine and landscape. Check out a few of these day trip ideas to see beyond Tokyo on your next trip.

7. Odawara Castle

Head southwest of Tokyo for 80 km (50 miles) and you’ll reach the city of Odawara, in the Kanagawa Prefecture of Japan. Odawara is home to the Odawara Castle, a 15th century structure from the Edo period. In 1950, the castle was renovated to become a major tourism attraction with an onsite history museum and observation deck.

On display are countless ancient weapons and traditional Japanese tools, but the best thing to do is head to the top of the castle’s tower and look out over the gardens below. In the spring, the castle becomes a popular place for travelers and Japanese residents alike, as the gardens are in full bloom with cherry blossoms.

Getting to Odawara Castle

• On the Shinkansen bullet train from Tokyo Station, it can take as little as 40 minutes to get to Odawara Castle. Just hop on in Tokyo and sit back and relax as it whisks you to Odawara Station. Once you alight here, it is then a five to ten-minute walk to the impressive castle. While lots of trains run from both Tokyo and Shinjuku Station, these often take around double the time to get there, so it is better to take the bullet train if you can.
• As Mount Fuji is not too far away from Odawara Castle, lots of people combine the two into one unforgettable day trip. As well as seeing the iconic mountain and spectacular castle, tours also take you for a scenic cruise on the delightful Lake Ashi. See prices

6. Enoshima

Lying 60 kilometers to the south of Tokyo, Enoshima is a tiny island just off the coast. The destination feels completely different from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, and it boasts a very casual, relaxed beach atmosphere.

While there is a popular Enoshima Shrine and the Enoshima Aquarium, the best way to experience Enoshima is just to stroll along the water. You’ll come across several scenic overlooks, tidepools, botanical gardens and even caves, not to mention plenty of outdoor cafes with fantastic views.

Getting to Enoshima

• There are a couple of different ways to get to Enoshima by public transport, although they all involve one change, as no direct trains run between the two. From either Tokyo or Shinjuku Station, take a train to either Fujisawa Station or Ofuna Station, which both lie just outside of Enoshima. From the former, it is then a lovely 10-minute ride on an old but charming train to Enoshima. Regular trains also run from Ofuna Station to Enoshima. All in all, it should take around an hour and 45 minutes to two hours to get there.
• As the two cities of Enoshima and Kamakura lie right next to each other, many people decide to take a guided tour that takes them to both places in just one day. See prices

The distance between Tokyo and Kyoto is a whopping 450 km (280 miles), but it can still be done as a day trip thanks to the high speed bullet trains of Japan. If you only have a day to spend in Kyoto, stick to the central district.

Spend some time touring Nijō Castle, built in the 17th century and made up of two concentric rings of structures. You might also explore the Nishi Honganji, a beautiful Buddhist temple, or climb Kyoto Tower to enjoy panoramic views over much of the sprawling city.

Getting to Kyoto

• By shinkansen bullet train, Kyoto is only two and a quarter hours from Tokyo. You can catch the shinkansen from either Tokyo or Shinagawa Station; tickets cost 13,080 Yen one way. Once you arrive, you will most likely have to take a bus or metro to the sights you want to check out.
• A lot of people who visit Kyoto from Tokyo do so as part of a sightseeing tour. You still go by train but these are usually well worth the cost as an expert guide will take you around sights such as Sanjusangen-do Hall and Kiyomizu-dera Temple, explaining the history and culture of Japan as they go. See prices

Two hours north of Tokyo by train is Nikko, a small town in Tochigi Prefecture that is best known for its national park. Nikko National Park is a popular hiking destination where you can see lakes, waterfalls and lush greenery on the plateau. It is particularly appealing during the summer, because the high elevation translates to cooler temperatures than in the city of Tokyo.

In addition to the natural attractions like Lake Chuzenji and Yudaki Falls, there are a number of historic architectural landmarks. Three of the most significant that you’ll definitely want to include in your itinerary are the Nikkotoshogu Shrine, the Futarasanjinja Shrine and Rinnoji Temple.

Getting to Nikko

• To get to Nikko from Tokyo is very easy; it takes about two hours to get from one city to the other. The quickest way from Tokyo Station is to take the Yamagata Shinkansen or Tohoku Shinkansen to Utsunomiya Station, where you then take the Nikko Line to the city center. From here, you need to take a bus from Tobu Nikko Station into Nikko National Park. The journey takes between 50 to 80 minutes depending on whether you stop off at Lake Chuzenji or Yumoto Onsen.
• As you can see, it is quite time consuming to go by public transport, so you may want to consider joining a guided tour to save time. In addition to enjoying a scenic drive there and back, you’ll visit the stunning Toshogu Shrine and beautiful Kegon Waterfall, among other sights. See prices

3. Mount Fuji

West of Tokyo is Mt. Fuji, a landmark that can be seen from certain spots in the city. While admiring the often snow-capped peak from the capital is beautiful, it is also worth escaping Tokyo for a day and visiting the mountain up close. Mt. Fuji is the tallest mountain in Japan and an iconic landmark with tremendous significance in local culture.

Hiking to the summit can be challenging, and there are multiple route options available for hikers. Gotembaguchi is the toughest and longest route, while the route from Kawaguchiko 5th Station is just as challenging but shorter. Guided tours are often the best way to summit Mt. Fuji.

Getting to Mt. Fuji

• The easiest and cheapest way to get to Mt. Fuji using public transport is to take a direct bus from either Tokyo or Shinjuku Station; these run very frequently, taking around two hours. You can get off at Kawaguchino Station, Fuji-san Station, or Lake Yamanakako, depending on what you want to vist. To get up to the famous 5th Station, you’ll have to get off at Kawaguchino Station and take another 45-minute bus journey there.
• While you can visit Mount Fuji by public transport, you’re probably better off taking a guided tour if you want to see as much of the area as possible. See prices

2. Kamakura

Just 55 km (35 miles) south of Tokyo is Kamakura, a small city that offers a combination of fascinating temples and scenic beaches . Kamakura has a staggering history, with evidence of initial settlement more than 10,000 years ago!

Once the capital of the Kamakura Shogunate, the destination was a mere fishing village by the 20th century. Today, you will want to check out the 12th century Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gu Shrine, where weddings are held almost every day of the year. Then, make your way to the Great Buddha of Kōtokuin, which is the third largest Buddha statue in all of Japan.

Getting to Kamakura

• From Tokyo Station, it takes just under an hour to get to Kamakura, as the JR Yokosuka Line takes you directly there. You can do almost the same journey to Kamakura on the JR Shonan Shinjuku Line departing from Shinjuku Station. Once you arrive in Kamakura, you’ll find that most of the main sights are within walking distance of the station.
• Many people who visit Kamakura opt to take a guided tour to the city; with an expert guide at your disposal, you’ll come away having learned a lot about fabulous sights such as Jomyo-ji Temple and Hokoku-ji Temple. As well as exploring Kamakura, tours also take you to Enoshima, where you can explore the small island’s beautiful beaches. See prices

Southwest of Tokyo is Hakone, a mountainous region that makes for the perfect day trip from Tokyo. Easily accessible from the capital by train, Hakone revolves around the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. This is a hotbed of volcanic activity, and it even offers spectacular views of Mt. Fuji in the distance though clouds and poor visibility often block the view.

Some of the outdoor adventures you can have in Hakone include riding the cable car to the Great Boiling Valley full of sulfurous springs, hiking around the scenic Lake Ashi or taking a dip in one of the many local onsen, or Japanese hot springs and spas.

Getting to Hakone

• Lying around 90 kilometers to the southwest of Tokyo, Hakone is very simple to get to by public transport, and it generally takes about two hours to get there. Just hop on a Shinkansen bullet train from the center of Tokyo to Odawara Station. Here, you’ll need to transfer onto the Hakone Tonzan Line, which will take you the last 15 minutes to Hokane.
• Alternatively, you can take the ‘Romancecar’ – a direct express train that takes you from Shinjuku Station in Tokyo to Hakone. It takes around an hour and a half. Although most sights are within walking distance once you arrive in Hakone, you’ll have to take another half hour bus ride if you want to visit Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.
• A fantastic way to see the stunning scenery surrounding Hakone is to take a guided tour to the region. See prices

Map of day trips from Tokyo

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Home » Travel Guides » Japan » 15 Best Day Trips from Tokyo

15 Best Day Trips from Tokyo

Tokyo is one of the most frenetic, lively and exciting cities on the planet. Home to over 9 million people it is also one of the most populated.

An ever active city, there is plenty to see and do during a visit to Tokyo. Modern and business minded, there are historical pockets in Tokyo that should not be missed.

Senso-ji is a beautiful historical temple dedicated to the Goddess of Mercy. The Tokyo Imperial Palace and the Meiji Shrine are also fascinating places to explore.

Japan is a very well connected country, the area surrounding the capital city has a wealth to cultural and historical gems to explore. Let’s take a look at the best day trips from Tokyo.

Mt Fuji is the most iconic natural landscape in Japan and is in fact the highest mountain, or rather volcano, in the country.

Surrounded by five magical lakes, Mt Fuji’s splendour must be seen to be believed.

Throughout a day trip from Tokyo you can take in the breathtaking vistas of rural Japan.

It is possible to incorporate a visit to Oshino Ninja Village and proves to be a fun addition to the day.

You can learn further about Japanese culture and even have your photo taken with a ninja.

The Japanese garden at the Ninja Village is pretty incredible too.

The mountain city of Nikko is one of the most picturesque destinations in all of Japan.

A day trip to Nikko is filled with temples, imperial villas and shines galore.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site this incredible city is worthy of all preservation efforts.

The mountain landscape of Nikko city is truly beautiful.

Throughout the day you can stop by the Toshogu Shrine and marvel at the intricate craftsmanship of its architecture.

Over 2.5 million sheets of gold leaf were used to adorn the interior.

The Tamozawa Imperial Villa should not be missed, built in 1899 the villa incorporates element of Meiji, Taisho and Edo architecture.

Remember to charge your camera before you leave Tokyo.

3. Disneyland and DisneySea

For those of you who thought that Disneyland only existed in Los Angeles and Paris then think again.

Japan has its very own Disneyland theme park and DisneySea park next door.

A day trip to Disneyland sees you enjoy the full Disney experience.

Meeting and mingling with all your favourite characters, rides aplenty and a full sized Cinderella Castle too.

How magical.

DisneySea features a huge lake in its centre and there are water rides and sea themed attractions to keep you and a your family laughing and making memories for hours on end.

Hakone is one of Japan’s best loved hot springs resorts.

Located in the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, Hakone is the gateway to Mt Fuji.

Before you strip of and jump in the hot pools take the opportunity to visit the Hakone Shine and accompanying museum that can be found next to Lake Ashi.

On that note, taking a stroll along the shores of Lake Ashi offers breathtaking views of the mountains in the distance.

It should be noted that this particular area of Japan is best experienced in autumn when the leaves are on the turn.

The last stop off before the hot springs should be the Hakone Open Air Museum that features dozens of quirky and thought provoking sculptures.

5. Tokyo Skytree & Tokyo Bay

Although the Skytree is firmly in the heart of Tokyo, teaming a visit to the Skytree with a cruise on Tokyo Bay is a wonderful day trip that sees you leave the city limits horizontally and vertically.

From the top of Tokyo Skytree, the largest broadcasting tower in the city, you can see Mt Fuji if the weather is particularly clear.

An opportunity not to be missed.

The Solamachi Mall neighbouring the Skytree is the best place to stock up on souvenirs and mementos.

Once you’ve left the city sky-ways it’s time to head out onto the waterways and soak up Tokyo’s specular cityscape from the luxury comfort of a cruise boat in the bay.

6. Yokohama

Yokohama is a city steeped in maritime history for it was one of the first ports in Japan to be utilised for international trade back in 1859. With a large Chinatown area Yokohama is a melting pot of Asian cultures.

There are hundreds upon hundreds of Chinese restaurants to explore; Yokohama is a great city from which to compare and contrast Chinese and Japanese culture.

The Yokohama Marine Tower is one of the most recognisable landmarks in the city and features an observation deck from which you can look down on the city or out over Tokyo Bay that feeds into the East China Sea.

7. Enoshima

Enoshima is a small island connected to the mainland Shonan district by the 600m long Enoshima Bridge.

There is a whole lot to explore on this compact island but the highlight is surely the grand Enoshima Shrine complex.

These hallowed grounds are dedicated to the goddess of good fortune, of music wealth and poetry; the Goddess Benzaiten.

The island has its own aquarium but with caves and temples to explore perhaps a day connecting with ancient history and culture is more worthwhile.

It is the Iwaya Caves that are most popularly visited and feature tidal pools to add to the uniqueness of the site.

8. Kamakura

Kamakura lies just half an hour away from Tokyo city centre and is one of the easiest day trips to coordinate.

Undoubtedly the highlight of Kamakura is the giant Great Buddha of Kotokuin statue.

An incredibly scared site, you need not have a faith to appreciate the impressiveness of the Great Buddha statue.

Japan is perfect for temple hopping and during a day trip to Kamakura you can tick off three more beautiful temples each very different but no less beguiling.

The Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, the Engakuji Temple and the Hasedera Temple can all be visited before Tokyo lures you back again.

The Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine is the most important Shinto Shrine in all of Kamakura.

The city of Kawagoe can be found northwest of Tokyo and lies in the Saitama Prefecture.

The main attraction of Kawagoe is the Edo-Period architecture and the Kawagoe Castle Honmaru Residence.

Widely known for old clay warehouses and the homes of hard working merchants known as Kurazukuri, Kawagoe offers great insight into the Edo-era of Japan.

The sweet shops of Kawagoe are not to be missed.

There is a whole street dedicated to the traditional stores known as Candy Alley; heaven for the sweet-toothed traveller.

For those interested in Buddhism then the Kita-in is a must-visit, not only featuring the ruins of an Edo Castle but is also home to over 500 stone statues of Lord Buddha and his disciples.

10. Chichibu

If you love pink then you’ll love Chichibu.

In all honesty even if pink is your least favourite colour you’ll still be charmed by the pink hues of Chichibu.

The start and end point for the Chichibu Kannon Pilgrimage route, Chichibu is surrounded by rugged mountains that hide within them 34 sacred temples.

In the city of Chichibu itself you’ll find the Kinshoji Temple, which just so happens to be the 4th stop along the pilgrimage route.

Here you’ll be able to observe hundreds of Buddha statues, each a little different from the last.

The Hitsujiyama Park is one of the most impressive parklands in all of Asia.

Best known for it’s spring flower display there are bountiful blossoms and blooms throughout the year.

11. Kusatsu Onsen

Tucked away in Gunma Prefecture is Kusatsu Onsen one of the most popular hot spring resorts in the region, and high on the list of favourite hotspots for locals too.

Kusatsu Onsen makes for a wonderful day trip from Tokyo but you may come away wishing you had more time to relax and unwind.

If you can afford to spend a night or two here you wouldn’t regret it.

During your visit you must observe the Yumomi performance.

During the show women stir the hot spring waters with large wooden paddles to help cool down the steaming pools, singing folk songs all the while.

12. Atami City

Atami City is a charming seaside city that falls on the Izu Peninsula.

Nestled in the volcanic foothills of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, Atami City offers views of the great Mt Fuji, a great number of hot springs and a wealth of city culture to explore.

The MOA Museum of Art is home to a vast collection of East Asian art that traces back through the centuries, the museum itself also gave pretty impressive coastal views.

The Atami Castle is the highlight of a visit to the city.

In the spring months Atami Castle is one of the best viewing spots for the Sakura cherry blossoms in all of the prefecture.

With the coast privating a stark yet beautiful colour contrast below.

13. Chiba Castle

We’ll tell you now, Chiba Castle is technically not a castle but it would easily fool you.

Chiba Castle is, in fact, a folk museum set in a modern building with the facade of a historical Japanese castle.

The museum features exhibits that impart knowledge and insights into the history and development of Chiba city.

Chiba Castle, and the city as a whole, is a particularly beautiful place to visit during the Hanami festival, also known as the cherry blossom festival.

Art lovers should make time to add the Hoki Museum to their day trip from Tokyo itinerary.

This art museum focuses on realism and is very interesting indeed.

14. Kawasaki

Kawasaki is best known for its production of motorbikes but the city is certainly a destination in its own right with a lot to explore.

Adrenaline junkies will no doubt make a beeline for Yomiuriland.

More adult orientated than Tokyo’s Disneyland, Yomiuriland has dozens of rollercoasters, scream-inducing rides and bungee jumping too.

For the culture vultures will be keen to hear more about the Kawasaki Daishi, a Buddhist temple founded hundreds of years ago in 1128 CE. Kawasaki Daish is the headquarters for the Chizan sect of Shingon Buddhism.

Japan provides a wealth of opportunities for travellers to expand their knowledge of Buddhism as a way of life.

15. Odawara

Odawara is the neighbouring city to Hakone and in a day trip from Tokyo the two cities can be covered with ease, if a little quickly.

Odawara Castle is a multi-storey castle built in classic Japanese style.

Once destroyed by the Meiji government, Odawara Castle will now be protected forever more.

A small, understated castle, on the inside you’ll find a wonderful assortment of artefacts and exhibitions.

Odawara is another city that provides a gateway to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.

During February and March visitors can enjoy the Odawara Plum Festival that features horseback archery and local folk dance.

15 Best Day Trips from Tokyo:

• Disneyland and DisneySea
• Tokyo Skytree & Tokyo Bay
• Kusatsu Onsen
• Chiba Castle

What are good side trips to take from Tokyo?

There’s a whole lot of hustle and bustle going on in Tokyo, but hey, that’s why you’ve come, right? Still, even if you’re on a short trip based out of Tokyo, there are plenty of opportunities to get out of the megalopolis for a breather. The places we’ll introduce to you today are all within an hour or two from central Tokyo. We’ve got some seaside swagger, historical heavy hitters, and Fuji-riffic natural splendor. So get off that packed subway train and into the semi-wild yonder that’s imminently within reach. With so many good side trips to take from Tokyo, it would be a shame to not get out there.

If you’ve got a rail pass , some of our suggested journeys may be a bit faster. However, once you calculate in the time required to get to and from the shinkansen (“bullet train”) stations, you’re often not so ahead of the game. In other words, don’t go out of your way to have rail pass coverage for these side trips. It’s often cheaper to just pay cash for non-shinkansen fares.

Yokohama, the junior excursion

With a grand tradition of trade and other foreigner flirtations, Yokohama is a proud port city that only about half an hour roughly south of Tokyo. With trains running every few minutes, and cheap fares to boot, it’s an easy choice for a good side trip from Tokyo. The area around Yokohama Station is not particularly exciting for most visitors. Instead of getting off the train here, head onwards to the port area, alighting at Sakuragicho Station. Not far from this station is Yokohama Landmark Tower, from the top of which you can enjoy the view pictured above. Also from Sakuragicho Station is easy access to the relatively new Yokohama Air Cabin. Hop on a gondola and soar above it all. Afterwards, make your way along the coast, checking out some of the grand old buildings, before cutting in to the heart of Chinatown. Yokohama’s Chinatown is the biggest in Japan. Naturally, eating is the focus, so come hungry!

If you’re ready for more, Yokohama’s got your covered, and in ways less crowded than the port area. For a look at an affluent local shopping district, check out Motomachi Street . Nearby is Motomachi Park, which is perfectly pleasant and has good views. If you are looking for a great Japanese garden, however, a quick bus ride over to Sankeien Garden is an absolute must. This is a stunning place, and it is rarely crowded at all. Plan on spending at least an hour at this gem, but best to not go midday on a summer day!

No time for Kyoto? Try Kamakura as a side trip to take from Tokyo

There is no substitute for the magnificence that is Kyoto , but if time in that part of Japan is not in the cards for this trip, consider Kamakura. From 1185–1333, this was arguably the center of power in Japan. The ruling shogunate amassed great wealth and power, and still today you can see remnants of this heyday. It’s also largely along a sandy (!) shoreline, with green hills buffering the other side of the various historical treasures. The “Great Buddha” (Japanese: Daibutsu) is easy to get to and always a crowd pleaser. Do also save time to wander some of the smaller streets and perhaps even do some light hiking in the surrounding hills. Consider the path running from Kita-Kamakura Station through the hills to Kamakura Station area. This right-sized hike also brings you nearby Tsuruoka Hachimangu , a top sight. Between there and Kamakura Station is a shopping street with all kinds of food, gifts, and more, so it makes for a nice package to combine the mountain walk, shrine, and town.

An easy add-on to Kamakura explorations is Enoshima. The island that is Enoshima is connected to the mainland by an easily walkable bridge. Very popular with locals, there’s lots of seafood restaurants at the base. From there, stairs lead you ever higher, but in very Japanese style, there are pay escalators to ease the pain. Views from the top are predictably pretty, but keep going to explore the deeper bits of the island. You can even make your way down to some interesting tide pools depending on the time of day. For some, Enoshima alone is one of the good side trips to take from Tokyo, but we think it’s easy to combine with Kamakura.

A lake, hot springs, sulfur pits, and Mt. Fuji too!

When it comes to good side trips to take from Tokyo, Hakone is always a winner. The best way to do this is on Odakyu Railway’s “Romance Car” (romantic entanglements optional), which takes you right to Hakone Yumoto Station. Many hot spring resorts are sprinkled about the area, but you can you use many of them for a small fee even if you aren’t a hotel guest. There’s some shopping and strolling in the area, but the real adventure starts when you board the switchback train. Climbing higher and going deeper into the mountains, the scenery grows ever more beautiful. From this ride, there comes an inclinator, a gondola ride, and finally a tourist boat ride across Lake Ashi. Along the way are a number of attractions, many included or discounted with the Hakone Free Pass . You’ll definitely want to buy that pass, as it is includes all transit from Tokyo, within Hakone, and back to Tokyo (1, 2, and 3 day versions available).

Take the time to smell the roses, so to speak. There are some interesting museums and walks along the way, and you are free to get on and off the various trains/gondolas along the way at no additional charge. All of this makes for a somewhat lengthy daytrip, so consider doing it as an overnighter. This will also allow for maximum hot spring soakage!

Side trips are great, but don’t forget to explore Tokyo’s less visible gems

Even though we are based in Kyoto and Osaka, we at Pinpoint Traveler think the world of Tokyo. We encourage you to see as many facets of the city as possible. For those looking old Tokyo beyond (but including) Asakusa, we have a walking tour just for you! You should also feel free to get in touch with us at any time, even if it’s just with a question. We’ve got lots of advice about good side trips to take from Tokyo, but also about things to see all over Japan.

Happy travels, and may your experiences across Japan be wonderful!

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12 of the best day trips from Tokyo

By Author Toni Broome

Posted on Published: May 18, 2018  - Last updated: April 12, 2024

A great way to discover more of Japan’s history, culture, landmarks and natural highlights is by taking off on some of these top day trips from Tokyo. The city is a great base for exploring being a transportation hub and with so many fun destinations nearby.

Table of Contents

Why Tokyo is an ideal base for your side trips

2. kamakura, 3. enoshima, 5. yokohama, 7. mt nokogiri, 8. todoroki valley, 9. mt takao, 11.  kawagoe, 12. kinugawa onsen.

Tokyo is a city full of energy, vibrancy and contrasts.  It can also be exhausting for many visitors if they aren’t used to living in a big city.  We manage the sensory overload by jumping on a train every few days in search of the best day trips from Tokyo.  

In just a couple of hours, you can experience something completely different.  Not only do these easy day trips from Tokyo allow us to experience an exciting new place but we return to the city refreshed and re-energized ready to deal with the crowds and intensity again.

Japan enjoys a fabulous public transport system and as a tourist in the country, you have access to using it at a price that represents even better value than the locals enjoy through the Japan Rail Pass scheme.  If you’re just starting out planning your trip you may find these articles not only make things a bit clearer but can help ensure you get the best value for your travel dollars.

• Top tips for transport in Japan
• How to use the Tokyo subway system like a local
• Everything you need to know about the Japan Rail Pass  including when you DON’T need it

So let’s take a look at some of the options to add to a Tokyo itinerary.  These are our current top 12 but watch out for new additions, each time we head back to Japan we visit new places and revisit old favourites meaning our recommendations evolved over the years.  For each one, we’ll look at why it might add something special to your Japan experience, how to get there, how much travelling is involved and why it’s one of our top choices.

If you have any questions or your suggestions, please let us know in the comment section at the end we love to hear about your travel plans too.

Hakone in Kanagawa prefecture is a fun day trip from Tokyo and very easy to do.  It’s an onsen town, perfect if you want to soak in its healing hot springs, you’ll have unbeatable views of Mt Fiji from the lake and many other areas and Owakudani, the geothermal is something quite different to see.  It’s also a great place to visit seasonally for cherry blossom, autumn foliage or a pristine snowy white backdrop in winter.

The starting point in the Hakone area is Odawara station, here you can pick up the Hakone Freepass that we discuss in this article or you can do the same circuit on individual tickets if you prefer.

Read more in our article on a Tokyo side trip to Hakone  or find out more about how to enjoy a Hakone Onsen without necessarily staying overnight in the area.

If you’re looking for a tour option that visits some of the best spots in both Mt Fuji and Hakone this is a popular choice.

Also in Kanagawa prefecture is the historic beach town of Kamakura known for the giant Buddha, a  historic shrine ,  famous zen temples and gardens. If you are looking for something a little more energetic with some time off the main tourist train there is the Daibutsu (Buddha) walking trail running from northern Kamakura to the temple of the Great Buddha in the south through temples, parks and quiet walking paths.

Kamakura is home to Hasedera temple, one that we both enjoy for many reasons but especially the historic Benten-Kutsu cave .  You can see down to the beach from the upper parts of the temple grounds and it’s an easy walking distance from the Great Buddha.

Kamakura is an easy trip from Tokyo by train, it takes just under an hour on a standard local train and costs Y920, there are limited express options available but they will only save around 10 minutes and double the cost.

Kamakura day trip guide and itinerary

Enoshima is a small island only about 4 km in circumference off the Shōnan Coast not far from Kamakura and the two can be combined into a single day trip if you’re a fast-paced traveller, we’re not and easily spend a full day on and around the island.

You can take the train from Tokyo down to Kamakura then a short trip on the Enoden line across to Enoshima but our preference is to take the JR line to Ofuna and then switch across to the hanging monorail through to Enoshima, for me, it’s one of the best parts of this trip, something very different than we’ve experienced anywhere else.  Either option will take just over an hour from Tokyo.

The island is joined to the mainland by the Enoshima Benten Bridge so you won’t need to wait for a ferry across.  There are regular events on the island, when we were there in February there was an evening light-up, a popular date-night experience in Japan and a very early spring tulip display. 

Things to do on the island include riding the escalators up the hill, the shrines and gardens, the cliffs and rock platforms on the seaward side and the Iwaya caves.    There is also a small shopping street that leads up to the big torii as you enter the island and to the right is the spa where you can soak in an onsen with distant views of Mt Fuji on a clear day.

Read more:  Planning a day trip to Enoshima Island

A longer side trip from Tokyo is to head to Nagano, there is a range of things to do here but in winter the chance to see the monkeys soaking in their onsen in the snowy landscape is something I can’t pass up.

The macaque, a wild Japanese monkey referred to around here as the snow monkey is regularly seen in and around their purpose-built onsen.  These are wild monkeys, free to come and go in the surrounding forest. 

Decades ago the monkeys used to sit in small rock crevices where the hot springs bubbled through but when they found the human onsen so much more comfortable and started arriving uninvited for their own ‘pool parties’ the locals built them their own within the park.  It’s been a favoured spot for them ever since.

The trip will take around 3 hours from Tokyo to the Snow Monkeys bus stop but there are different ways of getting there which we cover in detail in the article linked below.  If you prefer there are also snow monkey day tours available.

How to plan your day trip to the snow monkeys from Tokyo

Yokohama is Japan’s second largest city and is very easy to visit from your base in Tokyo.  It’s located in the adjacent Kanagawa Prefecture on Tokyo Bay to the south of Tokyo itself.  It’s a major commercial centre, has some great attractions and a different vibe to Tokyo city that make it worth visiting.  You can reach Yokohama by local train in 30 minutes.

Popular attractions in Yokohama to visit are Chinatown, it’s one of the top 3 in Japan, and the port area called Minato Mirai which is an interesting mix of entertainment, shopping and cultural attractions.  For a birds-eye view head on up to the 69th floor of the Landmark Building for a 360-degree perspective on the city and for a serene contrast the Sankaien Garden is a huge and beautiful classical garden founded in 1906 by a silk trader.

Other popular attractions include Seaside Park, Osanbashi Pier, and the Ramen Museum which is more an interactive noodle experience that recreates a piece of Yokohama from the 1950s, take a stroll in Motomachi to feel like you’ve landed in Europe or make your way to the Kirin Beer factory tour complete with tastings.

A Tokyo to Nikko day trip is an easy and fun trip.  It can include some fascinating history and culture, beautiful nature and seasonal highlights, especially for autumn colour and snow in winter.  The region is popular for hiking and its scenery all year round but its most popular tourist highlight is the UNESCO World Heritage area which includes the stunning Tosho-gu shrine dating back to 1617.

In addition to the shrine don’t miss the Shinkyo bridge dating back to 1636 and the Kanmangafuchi Abyss formed by an explosion from nearby Mount Nantai with its many Jizo statues located opposite the botanic garden.

You can get to Nikko using the JR Pass if you have one but the most efficient way is using the local Tobu Railway that runs from Asakusa in Tokyo and takes just under 2 hours.  Once in Nikko, you can explore the central area on foot or take local buses between destinations.

If you are thinking of heading to Tochigi prefecture for a day (or longer) we have a detailed guide to Nikko on the site that includes everything you need to help you plan your trip.

Mount Nokogiri, also known as Sawtooth Mountain is in Chiba prefecture can be reached in around 2 hours by train from Tokyo.  You can hike the mountain or take the ropeway up to the top station.  Even if you do use the ropeway both ways you’ll find you have done plenty of walking up and down the mountain by the end of the day.

There are 2 giant Buddhas here, Kannon the Boddhisatva of compassion was carved in 1966 but the Ishidaibutsu was carved in 1783 and is twice the size of the giant Buddha in Kamakura.  There are 1500 much smaller Arhat statues too, Arhat represent the Buddha’s disciples or people who have gained enlightenment.  You might notice a number of beheaded statues, this isn’t vandalism, at least not modern damage anyway, it was done as part of an anti-Buddhist demonstration after the Meiji Restoration in the mid to late 1800s and has been retained as part of the history of the area rather than repairing them.

There are plenty of lookouts and a glass-walled restaurant so try to pick a clear day to make the most of the views gained climbing all the steps.

Read more: How to plan your day trip to Mt Nokogiri

Todoroki Gorge doesn’t involve leaving Tokyo, it’s only a 15-minute train trip from Shibuya but you’ll feel like you’re a world away from the city.  This is the only gorge that remains in Tokyo and provides a cool walk in nature in the shade of tall trees and palms alongside the river.  Along the way you’ll pass temples, shrines and ancient burial tombs, you’ll pass a traditional tearoom and find an enchanting Japanese garden built into the hillside that is open to wander through.

While it can get busy on the weekends, we visited mid-week and other than a few locals taking a leisurely stroll, purposefully going about their daily commute or filling water bottles from the traditional style bore pump, it was peaceful emphasising the sounds of birdsong and rustling autumn leaves.

Read more:  All you need to know to plan your visit to Todoroki Gorge.

Mount Takao is a fabulous day trip from Tokyo without even leaving the prefecture.  We’ve written about our fabulous day here during the autumn colours and highly recommend it whether you are looking for an active day of hiking or a more leisurely approach using the cable car and chair lifts and relaxing in the natural thermal onsen at the end of the day.

There are multiple spots to enjoy the views of nature back out to Tokyo city, a sprawling historical temple, restaurant, shrine and more.  There are 8 trails to walk so you could spend several days out here if you wanted to but it really is beautiful and if you are lucky there are still wild monkeys to be seen in the forest.

Kyoto as a side trip from Tokyo isn’t one I’d recommend for everyone but if you have a strong interest in Japan’s history and culture and not enough time in your itinerary to add a longer stay in Kyoto then it can be an option.  The bullet train reaches Kyoto in around 2.5 hours, if you are prepared to head off early and come back after dinner you can fit in a full day exploring the city and some of the city’s unique cuisine but be aware that it will be a very full day.

I’d suggest you spend some time identifying what it is you want to experience while you are there and build your day around your top priorities.  Those may depend on the season and your interests, some attractions open early in the day or into the evening, and some may even be quieter at those times helping you fit a bit more into the hours available.

Kyoto is a city of 1600 temples and even more Shinto shrines, they are such an integral part of the city and its culture that a visit isn’t complete without experiencing at least a couple.  Then there’s the Imperial history associated with Nijo Castle and the Imperial Palace, the food and history experience of Nishiki market , the elusive culture of the geisha districts, the impressive gardens and parks, and the traditional art culture.

To get an idea of some of the options on offer in Kyoto to get your planning underway you may want to take a look at some of our Kyoto posts, we’ll have a full guide up shortly and to stretch the budget we do cover the top free things to do in the city .

Kawagoe was established as a merchant town during the Edo Period when the capital of Japan moved from Kyoto to Tokyo.  The history of Kawagoe has been well preserved making it a great place to visit to experience that heritage and culture only 30 minutes out of Tokyo.

The easiest way to get here is with Tobu Railways ‘Kawagoe discount pass’ which includes the return train trip from Ikebukuro, buses in the town and other discounts with local vendors.

We have a detailed guide to Kawagoe on the site but a few of the things not to miss are the Edo style merchant warehouses, the bell tower in the centre of town, the traditional artisans in penny candy land and Hikawa Shrine.

Kinugawa Onsen is in Tochigi prefecture just over 2 hours by train from Tokyo or around 30 minutes from the heritage temples and shrines of Nikko.  A visit here is a very different experience though, the focus is on nature, relaxation and adventure.

Taking this traditional boat down the Kinugawa Valley had some great scenery and the cascades added some fun and splashes although we didn’t get wet.  The area is surrounded by beautiful nature with some good walk around but the main reason tourists come to the area is the onsens, there are two hot spring sources, one on either side of the river and several places that day visitors can experience the relaxation of Japanese onsen here.

We’ve included some options for day use onsen, trip planning tips and more information on things to do in Kinugawa Onsen in the linked article.

We hope some of our top day trip from Tokyo suggestions have helped you with planning your next visit or inspired you with some of the variety and options available.  We take several side trips on our travels as we prefer to choose a few accommodation bases rather than moving more often with our luggage. 

To ensure we see as much as possible we put together our own tour plans, get started early and don’t mind travelling back to our base after dinner to maximise the experience.  That’s just our travel style and what works well for us, we find we lose valuable time exploring when we’re checking in and out and orientating ourselves to a new base too often.  Of course, all of these options are suited to a multi-day stay if you prefer to travel that way and have more time available.

If you have any questions please ask in the comments section below and follow the links in the article to more detailed articles on each destination site.  Have you already taken a day trip from Tokyo?  We’d love to hear your experience and recommendations too.

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Tuesday 18th of July 2023

Hi, this will be first trip to Japan. Have about 12 days. Was thinking of end of March/April but I believe that is cherry blossom season and extremely busy. Would you suggest staying in two cities eg Tokyo and Osaka and doing day trips from those places. Are the gardens more in bloom April/May. Would like to go to Kyoto and Hiroshima and maybe Miyajima. Have found your site very helpful. Kind regards

Toni Broome

Sunday 8th of October 2023

Hi Rebecca. It does depend on the year, the last couple have been warmer, but typically if it is the cherry blossoms you are after the mass bloom effect and that is over the second week in April. There are some late blooming trees, we've even found some autumn blooming trees in a Tokyo park but that intense display is very short and I usually plan around last week in March and first week in April. However after the blossom in April and May come the azaleas and wisteria which are also really stunning but more specific where you want to go to see them. We are headed over for the month of May, with the exception of that first week which is Golden Week the attractions are a lot quieter than cherry blossom especially in Kyoto.

With 12 days and first visit I would find a base from Tokyo and Osaka enough but our preference is slower and deeper travel knowing we can't get to everything anyway but your travel style and preferences will guide you. Also the JR Pass is no longer a cost effective option even with the Miyajima and Hiroshima addition so you'll want to weigh up if that extra cost is worth while to you. We do really enjoy those locations and with 12 days you could definitely do a night or two in Hiroshima, I'd suggest staying near the station so it is easy to get an early train out to Miyajima in case the full tide is early in the day and it makes dropping luggage at the hotel and collecting it before moving on nice and easy. It is easy to get the tram into town and to the Peace Park etc from there (it's only around 3 km).

Thursday 1st of June 2023

Hi Thanks for the all the information.

We are planning on spending a week in Tokyo in July and have allowed an extra 3 nights outside Tokyo (travel by train ).

We have previously visited Kyoto and Osaka on a previous trip.

Could you suggest which 2 or 3 of these destinations would be practical to combine as a mini itinerary (going from one to the other ) from Tokyo and back please ?

Thank you Tom

Tuesday 6th of June 2023

With July often being hot and humid I would look a bit inland but it will depend on what you most like to see and do. The wider Nikko area might be a good option, you have the heritage temples and shrines that are often done as a day trip from Tokyo but if you use the 3 day pass to go out to surrounding area you have impressive waterfalls, lakes and national park, staying out by the lake perhaps, that covers the bus out there and I think the scenic ferry trip across the lake was part of it too. You can then headed on by train to Kinugawa Onsen, also in the Nikko area where there are many onsen, nature walks and a boat trip on the river through the gorge etc.

Hakone and the Fuji 5 lakes area is also nice and could easily be combined into a 3 night trip but again while you can get to Hakone and back from Kawaguchiko by train, the trip between the 2 areas is by bus.

Keeping travel by train only without basing out of Tokyo is a bit more limited, maybe Hakone then down to Kamakura/Enoshima and back to Tokyo. There is plenty to do in each of these areas and if you are travelling with lighter luggage through this section I would take the hanging monorail from Enoshima to Ofuna or the other way. It is only about 15 minutes so you could also just do the return trip and walk up to the giant Kannon statue on the hill that you see as you arrive into the station. Kamakura has a good food scene, there are beaches with ocean breeze that can provide some relief from summer breeze but they probably won't be your focus. There are a lot of temples and shrines here but it is also a bit different, you can follow a mostly off road hike from northern Kamakura station down to the Great Buddha near the coast through parks and small temples, shrines and a lovely little hillside garden cafe.

I hope that might be some help, enjoy.

Tuesday 23rd of May 2023

Thank you heaps for the information, I came across this when looking for day trips into nature out of Tokyo. Now I just wish I had more time.

Enjoy, there is so much beautiful nature, parks and gardens in easy reach of Tokyo, what season are you travelling or are you there now?

Andrew Cayzer

Sunday 30th of October 2022

Thanks guys we are staying in Tokyo for 12 days in may 2023 and now I have something to do every day this is a fantastic site Thanks Andrew

Tuesday 1st of October 2019

This is a great site, thanks for the information. We are travelling as a group of 11 (2 extended families ranging from 15 - 70 years old) in late January 2020. Most of us have been once or twice before and typically we spend a week in Tokyo and a week skiing in Hakuba. This time round we are staying three weeks as we are adding a week in Osaka/Kyoto at the beginning of the trip. We have a free day in Tokyo and would like to do a day trip. Needs to take into account it will be winter. We would have seen lots of snow in Hakuba the week before so doesnt need to be in the snow as such. Plus we would have already been to Kyoto, Hiroshima, Nara, Osaka and Tokyo so would have had plenty of exposure to historic sites and big cities. Six of the group are teenage boys. Any ideas what would be a perfect day trip for this time of year and for our group? Somewhere with interesting natural wonders mixed with quirky things to keep the kids interested maybe?

Thursday 3rd of October 2019

I wish I could help, teenage boys are away outside my area of expertise! If they're over the culture and the city life I could really only suggest getting some time outdoors. Mt Takao isn't it's best in winter but the chairlift is fun and some light hiking, views are better in winter because the cool air is clearer. A bit more off the usual path is Mt Nokogiri, we took the ropeway up and down but there is still plenty of climbing up and down the mountain to the giant Buddha's carved in the mountain, again great views on a clear day. Enoshima possibly combined with Yokohama is another option, get off at Ofuna and take the hanging monorail the rest of the way. Walk across the causeway to the island and climb to the top or take the escalators, there is still a surprising amount of walking, you can see Mt Fuji if it's clear and there are caves on the seaward side. If you wanted to stay in the city the Robot restaurant is popular with teenagers, Odaiba is something a bit different and can be combined with the futuristic boat up the Sumida river from here to Asakusa. Sorry I can't be more help, do they have any particular interests like baseball or anime?

Suggested walks and itineraries

At least two full days are required to get a taste of Tokyo , and at least a week is needed to get to know Japan's capital city a little bit more intimately.

Suggested full-day schedules

Suggested half-day schedules

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Questions? Ask in our forum .

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Hubby likes beaches, kids (11yo and 15yo) don't like too many temples and shrines. Hubby and I like walking (don't want to hike), kids are ok walking long distances *most* of the time.

This is the rough itinerary:

Arrive Kamkura Station, look around the station area

Head to Houkokuji Temple/tea house/bamboo forest: how is the walk from the station to here, or is taking the bus recommended? Also, we're not that keen on matcha but like green tea - can we get plain green tea or something else here?

Head to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu (should we walk here from Houkokuji, or take the bus?)

Wander around the station area/Komachi Dori for a basic lunch

Take the Enoden railway to Hase: visit Hasedera and then the Great Buddha (would the koi be in the ponds at Hasedera or Tsurugaoka Hachimangu in January or are they taken out? I think my kids would like seeing them)

Walk back to Kamakura via the beach: I can't tell if this would be walking on the sand or is there a walkway adjoining the beach? Around a 30min walk back to Kamakura?

Is there much to do in terms of evening meal around the beach area or the station, or is it best to head back to Tokyo? I think hubby might quite like somewhere looking towards the beach, something simple/not too pricey.

12 replies to this topic

Thank you, these are really helpful suggestions. Can I please check two things:

- logistically it would be easier to eat on the mainland near a station, rather than on the island? I just want to get the timing right.

- if I think we had to drop one temple or shrine from the itinerary so the day is less rushed, which one? My kids would really enjoy one with bamboo, and I think we’ll keep the Buddha (even though we’re seeing the reclining one near Fukuoka, at Nanzoin - or do you think we can skip the one in Kamakura after seeing the one in Nanzoin?) If we keep the bamboo at Hokokuji and also the Great Buddha, would you drop Hanesdera or Tsurugaoka? I know both are very significant and offer something different.

Thanks everyone

…SmooOz, thank you for the illumination information. We love illuminations, so this seals the deal. It looks so beautiful.

• A few basic Kamakura questions 2:47 am
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Kamakura Hotels and Places to Stay

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10 of the best hotels in Tokyo, from charming ryokans to Japanese onsen retreats

Japan’s capital is one of the most diverse and thrilling cities on Earth — but its sheer size can make choosing a hotel daunting. Here are 10 places to stay in Tokyo to make your trip all the more memorable.

With its glinting skyscrapers, narrow alleyways, lantern-festooned temples and neon-clad arcades, Tokyo is one of the most diverse and thrilling cities on Earth — but its sheer size can make choosing a hotel daunting. Over the past decade, accommodation options have broadened to include trendy ryokans (traditional inns) and indie hotels. Because there’s no single city ‘centre’ in the Japanese capital, you’ll almost certainly have to do some travelling — likely on the efficient metro system — to see its highlights, so don’t get overly hung up on location. Instead, think about what’s more important after a day’s sightseeing: an al fresco pool or a cool in-house bar.

1. Hoshinoya Tokyo

Best for: cultural immersion Leave the city, and your shoes, behind as you step onto the tatami floors of this skyscraper ryokan. It’s a low-lit retreat of shoji screen doors and incense-scented air, with a second-floor lobby that includes a little salon for tea ceremonies. The 84 rooms are spread across the next 14 floors, with each level centred around a traditional ochanoma lounge serving teas, sake and house-made snacks. The rooms themselves are plush, with raised-platform futon beds, deep-soak tubs and jersey kimono-style pyjamas. An immense 17th-floor onsen-spa has hot spring waters pumped in from 5,000ft below the city streets, with a vaulted roof that leaves it part-open to the elements. The 10-table basement restaurant serves exquisite French-Japanese tasting menus and the in-room bento box breakfasts are highly recommended. Rooms: From ¥112,000 (£589), two-night minimum stay.

2. OMO5 Tokyo Otsuka

Best for: budgeting In a skyscraper-cluttered metropolis, a hotel with an intimate, neighbourhood vibe can be a rare thing. Yet this branch of cool, affordable chain Omo, by Hoshino Resorts, has just that, packaged up in a modern building in the northern district of Otsuka. Cleverly designed rooms make the most of every square inch, with loft-style beds suspended above tatami mat seating areas and storage space integrated into walls and stairs. There’s also a laundry room on the fifth floor, where guests can wash and dry clothes for just a few quid, and an all-day cafe that transitions from breakfast space to coffeeshop to bar as the day progresses. Sign up for a local tour with one of the dedicated ‘Omo Rangers’, who will take you around the excellent local tempura and ramen shops — or even on an Otsuka bar crawl. Rooms: From ¥16,000 (£84).

3. TRUNK (Hotel) Cat Street

Best for: loft-style cool This felt like an entirely new concept in Tokyo when it first opened in 2017: a design-forward boutique hotel with universally appealing NYC-style coolness. Seven years on, the concept has now been copied many times in the city, but it’s still hard to top the original in the shopping area of Shibuya, just off Cat Street. Its lounge, restaurants and shop attract fashionable Tokyoites as much as hotel guests, and its bedrooms come with a breezy, minimalist aesthetic. Some have balconies with hammocks while larger options, like the Dining Suite, include spaces such as a kitchen area or terrace. Don’t be surprised to see dapper couples heading for the rooftop; it’s a popular venue for city weddings. Rooms: From ¥51,774 (£273).

4. Palace Hotel Tokyo

Best for: royal luxury This elegant hotel in Otemachi has long been a favourite with well-heeled Tokyoites who come for the dining options and spa. It helps that it’s mere steps away from the Imperial Palace, the city’s most exclusive address, and close to the swish shops of the upmarket Ginza district. Good-sized rooms — some of them featuring balconies — overlook an expanse of moat-carved gardens. An extensive breakfast buffet has princely appeal thanks to elegant platings of grilled fish, pickled plums, rice and miso soup; if that’s not to your taste, there’s eggs benedict and croissants, too. The in-house restaurants also have the wow factor, with two Michelin-starred options: French-inspired Esterre, in partnership with Ducasse Paris, and Chinese-focused Amber Palace. Rooms: From ¥91,800 (£483).

5. ONE@Tokyo

Best for: solo travellers In the east of the city, a 10-minute walk from the Tokyo Skytree observatory tower, One@Tokyo has a high-profile pedigree for a budget hotel, having been designed by Japanese starchitect Kengo Kuma. Functional yet not austere, its communal spaces — from the open lobby to the greenery-dotted rooftop — fuse industrial metallics with warm woods and a palette of unfussy greys. With their friendly price point and compact footprint, the lead-in standard semi-double rooms are perfect for solo travellers who want a step up in comfort and privacy from one of the city’s legendary capsule hotels. Long-stay discounts apply when booking for five nights, making it a perfect base if you’re planning day trips out of the city, too. Rooms: From ¥15,000 (£79).

6. Hotel New Otani Tokyo

Best for: amenities More urban resort than hotel, this vast property — once a filming location for the James Bond film You Only Live Twice — occupies a verdant location between multiple parks in the central Chiyoda ward. The hotel is fringed by 10 acres of 400-year-old Japanese gardens and, unusually for Tokyo, also has an al fresco swimming pool. The 1,474 rooms are spread across three wings, and there are more than three-dozen dining options, plus a lounge with free nibbles and drinks for Executive House Zen guests. Rooms: From ¥36,000 (£189).

7. Shiba Park Hotel

Best for: bookworms The printed page takes centre stage from the moment you walk in to this hotel, which houses a collection of around 1,500 books. As well as a double-height atrium lined with wooden shelves of books, there’s also a fireside library lounge and book corners on every floor, each themed around different aspects of Japanese culture. The rooms are comfy, contemporary retreats in which to curl up in with a good read — and the views of Tokyo Tower, lit up like a beacon at night, aren’t half bad either. Rooms: From ¥21,870 (£115).

8. Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo

Best for: families With reasonable prices, a prime location near Shinjuku station and views out to Mount Fuji on a clear day, this option ticks a lot of boxes. Rooms are a bit bland (unless you plump for a suite with tatami mats and shoji screen doors), but for families, the spacious four-bed options more than make up for the uninspiring decor. On-site experiences such as tea ceremonies make getting a culture fix easy if you’re wrangling kids. The seventh-floor outdoor pool, 11 restaurants and laundromat also help. Rooms: From ¥35,200 (£185).

9. Hotel Groove Shinjuku, A Parkroyal Hotel

Best for: nightlife-lovers For years, Shinjuku’s red-light district Kabukicho was rather sordid, the kind of place you’d head to for late-night karaoke and beers but not for a respectable hotel. All that’s changed with this recent opening, which reflects the fun of the city’s party heart but also has style and class. Set across floors 18 to 38 in the new Tokyu Kabukicho Tower, the rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows looking out over the neon bustle below, as well as electric-hued carpets and the occasional pop art wall mural. On the building’s lower floors, a retro-styled arcade, cinema, live music space and food hall with regional dishes keep the entertainment flowing around the clock. Rooms: From ¥31,000 (£163).

10. Tokyo Station Hotel

Best for: European-style elegance Opened in 1915, and set within the original 20th-century Tokyo Station, this grand hotel could have been lifted from London or Paris. Red bricks and soaring domes characterise the exterior; chandeliers, marble and button-back headboards are part of the old-world European opulence inside. Take tea in the high-ceilinged lobby lounge, ringing with live piano music and the clink of fine silverware, and end the day at the venerable Bar Oak, which serves up an array of Japanese whiskies in moody, wood-lined environs. If you’re planning to adventure beyond the capital, the location is unbeatable. Tokyo Station is the main Shinkansen (bullet train) terminal, serving popular destinations such as Kyoto and Osaka, and you can go from bed to boarding in mere minutes. Rooms: From ¥135,332 (£711).  

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