• Things to Do
  • Food & Drink
  • Shopping & Style
  • Coca-Cola Foodmarks
  • Restaurants & Cafes
  • Music & Nightlife
  • Neighborhoods
  • Los Angeles

Red torii gate of Hakone Shrine on Lake Ashi

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

Kasey Furutani

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The most beautiful places in Japan

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

6 best road trips in Japan

6 best road trips in Japan

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

[image] [title]

More on getaways

Discover Time Out original video

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

  • Terms of use
  • Work for Time Out
  • Time Out Group
  • Advertising
  • Manage cookies

Time Out Tokyo

  • Magazine subscription
  • Digital edition
  • Buy the guide to Tokyo

Time Out products

  • Time Out Worldwide

The Portable Wife

Home » Travel » Destinations » 11 Best Day Trips From Tokyo by Bullet Train

11 Best Day Trips From Tokyo by Bullet Train

Day Trips from Tokyo by Bullet Train - Pagoda tower with cherry blossoms in foreground

Thanks to the expanding shinkansen network, exploring Japan has never been easier. And if you’re a foreign visitor, you can zip around the country without spending a fortune on tickets! These day trips from Tokyo by bullet train take full advantage of the Japan Rail Pass.

Mount Fuji and purple flower field viewed from Tokyo bullet train day trip.

Tokyo is a central transit hub with dozens of direct connections around Japan. Whether you want to wander castle towns, hike forested shrine paths, or relax at an onsen, there’s a shinkansen day trip to suit any mood.

This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, click here .

Don’t Forget Your Japan Rail Pass!

Buying a Japan Rail Pass will save you a ton of time and money when traveling across Japan.

I’ve purchased a JR pass for two out of three Japan trips, and here’s why:

– Free bullet trains and reservations : Quickly travel all over Japan to maximize vacation time.

– Easy to use: Just show your pass to the gate attendant and walk to your train!

– Affordable day trips: Visit popular places like Nagoya, Kanazawa, and more without spending a fortune on tickets.

Order your Japan Rail Pass now for speedy delivery!

Shinkansen Day Trips from Tokyo

Kanazawa | Karuizawa | Nagano | Shizuoka city | Nagoya | Yokohama | Atami | Omiya | Takasaki | Sendai | Kyoto

Nishi chaya district in Kanazawa, a popular day trip from Tokyo by bullet train.

Kanazawa is the perfect easy day trip from Tokyo for culture and history lovers. Unlike other historic Japanese cities, Kanazawa remained relatively unscathed by war and natural disasters, and many of the city’s Edo-period buildings are still standing today. Walking through the famous “chaya” districts is like stepping back in time.

Several of these districts, known for their geishas and tea houses, have been preserved since the 1600s.  Nishi Chaya, Kazue-machi, and Higashi Chaya are the most intact, with several tea houses and shops still operating in Higashi Chaya. When the sun begins to set and the paper lanterns come on, the chaya take on a magical atmosphere.

Located in the city center, Kanazawa Castle towers over the nearby streets. Depending on when you visit, you’ll find cherry blossoms, verdant leaves, or red and gold foliage popping against the white walls.

Just across from the castle lies Kenroku-en , one of the “Three Great Gardens” of Japan. This spectacular example of Japanese green space includes reflecting pools, moss gardens, a traditional tea house, and panoramic viewpoints over the city.

If you’re interested in samurai or ninjas, check out the Nomura Clan Samurai House and Myoryuji ninja temple . While the samurai museum accepts walk-in guests, you’ll need to make a reservation to tour the ninja temple. However, being able to explore secret passageways and hidden traps is worth the inconvenience.

Thanks to the expanded Hokuriku Shinkansen line, this day trip from Tokyo by bullet train is a breeze. The Kagayaki trains departing from Tokyo Station or Ueno Station take 2.5 hours to reach Kanazawa (reservation required). Hakutaka trains have a mix of reserved and non-reserved carriages, and complete the journey in 3 hours.

Check out my Kanazawa day trip itinerary to plan your perfect trip!

Shiraito Falls stream with autumn leaves in Karuizawa Japan.

Western travelers might recognize Karuizawa as the setting for Terrace House: Opening New Doors . In Japan, the mountain town is mostly known for its ski resorts and lavish vacation properties. But this day trip from Tokyo by train is also home to several amazing waterfalls.

Shiraito Falls is the easiest to reach via public transit. While it isn’t the biggest waterfall in Japan, its impressive 70 meter curved curtain makes it a must see. If you’re going to Japan in October , you’ll be dazzled by the autumn leaves drifting around the pool. And during winter, the falls can freeze over, creating a magical icy curtain.

Use my guide to visiting Shiraito Falls for more details , including how to take the bus from Karuizawa station.

Terrace House fans will recognize Sengataki Falls , which drop into several pools surrounded by lush vegetation. If you don’t have a car and want to skip the taxi, you can get here via a 3km path from Sengataki Onsen (reachable by Bus #1 from Karuizawa station). There’s also a car park for the falls, with an easier 20 minute hike to the overlook.

If you’re into winter sports, you can spend your day on the slopes at Karuizawa Prince Hotel Snow Resort . They offer multi-lingual skiing and snowboarding lessons, so it’s the perfect chance to try out a new hobby!

Karuizawa is a short 70-minute journey from Tokyo along the Hokuriku shinkansen line.

Togakushi mirror lake with autumn trees and partly cloudy sky.

Nagano prefecture’s capital city is a speedy 90 minute day trip from Tokyo by bullet train. While the region is a popular skiing destination, there’s more to do here than hit the slopes.

Centered in the heart of Nagano City, Zenkoji is one of Japan’s most important temples. It houses the first Buddhist statue that was brought to Japan over 1,300 years ago. A replica of the sacred Buddhist statue goes on public display every six years, with the next event scheduled for 2021.

The road leading up to Zenkoji is lined with cozy restaurants and shops selling local goods. And nearby Joyama Park is a must see during sakura season and autumn.

There are also multiple things to do in Nagano within easy reach from the city.

For a unique wild animal encounter in Japan, head to Jigokudani hot springs . Every day, dozens of Japanese macaques climb down from their mountain dens to warm up in the steaming outdoor pools. Visitors can watch the monkeys as they soak, groom, and forage for seeds in the water.

Book your snow monkey onsen tour today!

Hikers will love exploring Togakushi ’s famous towering cedar trees and mountain shrines. The shrine path begins at the base of Mt. Togakushi, winding through the village and forest to the summit.

There are five shrines in all, as well as a mirror lake and botanical garden. You can buy bus tickets from the machine inside the Alpico office across from Nagano Station.

Shizuoka City

Shizuoka Miho no Matsubara beach with Mt. Fuji view at sunset.

Important shrines, Mount Fuji views, green tea cafes… Shizuoka City is an underrated day trip from Tokyo by bullet train.

This beautiful destination was the former home of the Ieyasu shogunate. Their main castle– Sunpu –still remains at the heart of the city. And the famous leader Tokugawa Ieyasu is enshrined at Kunozan Tosho-gu , a colorful multi-level shrine that overlooks the ocean.

For incredible views of Mount Fuji, head to the Nihondaira . This observatory and park at the top of Mount Udo is free to enter, and boasts 360 degree panoramic decks overlooking Shizuoka prefecture and the ocean. If the weather is good, you can see Fuji-san rising behind the city.

Nihondaira and Kunozan Tosho-gu are connected by a scenic cable car ropeway, making it easy to visit both in a single trip. You can catch a bus bound for Nihondaira Ropeway from Shizuoka Station. Buses run about every hour, and you can pay with ICOCA cards or change.

If you have time to spare, you won’t regret visiting Miho no Matsubara . This tree-lined beach is considered one of Japan’s best scenic points, especially on clear days when Mount Fuji is visible beyond the water. It’s tough to get here via public transit, so your best bet is to take a taxi (use the Japan Taxi app or ask your hotel to order one for you).

Before you leave the city, pop into a matcha cafe for unique refreshments. Shizuoka produces over 40% of Japan’s green tea, and there’s no better place to sample it than CHA10 . Order the vibrantly green matcha nitro and a slice of cheesecake for the ultimate flavor combo.

Shizuoka City is only an hour away from Tokyo via the Tokaido shinkansen line. And if you’d rather visit the city as a day trip from Kyoto , it’s only 95 minutes on the same line!

Check out the Explore Shizuoka website for more helpful trip-planning information.

RELATED: 15 Places to Visit in Japan Off the Beaten Path

Nagoya Castle with purple sunset sky, among the best bullet train trip from Tokyo.

Thanks to its impressive castle, Nagoya is one of the most popular JR pass day trips from Tokyo. But there’s plenty more to see in Japan’s fourth-largest city.

Atsuta Jingu is a peaceful haven of nature smack dab in the middle of the city. The shrine complex is famous for its tall cypress trees and serene walking paths that are lined with flowering trees during spring and summer.

Along the northern edge of the castle lies Meijo Park . Photographers flock here during cherry blossom season to get that iconic view of the castle and pink flowers. During the rest of the year, it’s a calm place to go for a walk or have a picnic.

And of course, there’s Nagoya Castle . Constructed during the Edo-period, it was one of the largest castles in Japan until it was mostly destroyed in 1945. Restoration efforts are still ongoing, with the main keep set to be finished by 2023. All around the castle is a mix of Japanese gardens, ponds, hanging wisteria, and even a plum blossom grove.

Osu Shopping District is a great place to score unique souvenirs and sample local foods like miso-glazed tonkatsu and eel. I highly recommend ordering hitsumabushi , a Nagoya speciality of miso-glazed grilled eel served with condiments like hot tea and pickled vegetables.

Fans of Studio Ghibli will love the recently opened  Ghibli Park . Located a short bus + tram ride east of Nagoya city center, this whimsical wonderland was built up around the old replica of Satsuki and Mei’s house from  My Neighbor Totoro .

While it used to be a huge fuss for non-residents to gain admission, it’s now possible to buy Ghibli Park tickets internationally! All tickets require an  advanced online reservation , so be sure to plan this excursion out well before your departure.

Nagoya is a 90-minute ride from Tokyo Station, and one of the top places to visit between Tokyo and Kyoto along the Tokaido shinkansen route.

Save me for later!

11 Super Easy Tokyo Day Trips - collage of pagoda, castle, and bullet train

Located just one stop south of Tokyo, Yokohama is a bustling and vibrant coastal city with a ton of sightseeing spots. Despite being one of Japan’s largest cities, most of the highlights are concentrated in a walkable district, making it one of the best Tokyo day trips by train.

The stunning waterfront district of Minato Mirai is packed with things to do. Have some fun at Yokohama Cosmoworld , home to one of the world’s tallest ferris wheels. Enjoy panoramic views from the top of Landmark Tower Sky Garden . Afterwards, take an oceanfront stroll through Rinko Park and along the Kishamichi Promenade.

Minato Mirai also has a Cup Noodles Museum that kids and adults alike will love. This unusual establishment shares the history of instant ramen in Japan, and guests can create their own signature cup of noodles to eat or keep as a unique souvenir.

Yokohama is also home to Japan’s largest Chinatown . The covered arcade is packed with shops and restaurants perfect for snacking and souvenir shopping. And nearby Yamashita Park offers great views of Yokohama Bay and bridge.

If you have more time, take public transit south to Sankeien Garden , a sprawling Japanese garden featuring traditional architecture throughout history. And if you visit during sakura season, check out the nearby Negishi Forest Park for beautiful plum and cherry blossoms.

Atami wooden onsen tub with pink yukata and drinks on serving board.

If the busy city’s got you feeling overwhelmed, a day trip from Tokyo to Atami is the perfect escape.

Atami is regarded as one of Japan’s best onsen resort areas, with hundreds of hot spring baths (natural and man-made) where you can relax the day away. While some resorts require an overnight stay, others offer day passes or short sessions to day trippers.

Hiratsuru and Hotel Micuras are an easy walk from Atami Station and offer day passes to their elegant baths and restaurants.

Note that many Atami onsen don’t allow guests with tattoos. However, some places will let you cover small tattoos by a bandage when using public baths. Onsen with private baths are generally more lenient, but it varies by establishment.

You can reach Atami from Tokyo in 45 minutes via the Tokaido shinkansen.

Omiya Hikawa Shrine pagoda surrounded by pink cherry blossoms.

For travelers with limited time, I recommend visiting Omiya. At only 30 minutes, this is one of the quickest and easiest Tokyo day trips by bullet train.

Omiya is best known for Hikawa Shrine , a lovely complex of Shinto buildings and gardens just a short walk from the main station. Not far from here is Bonsai Village and the Bonsai Museum , where hundreds of whimsical trees are sold and displayed.

And if you’re into trains, stop by the interactive Railway Museum for an up-close look at steam locomotives and other trains throughout the ages.

If you have time to spare, I highly suggest taking the 20-minute JR train over to Kawagoe . This historical Japanese town is packed with Edo-period houses, temples, and candy shops.

You can return directly to Shinjuku Station via the JR Saikyo/Kawagoe line when you’re ready to head back.

Red daruma figures stacked up at Jiganin temple in Takasaki.

Takasaki is among the best bullet train trips from Tokyo away from the crowds. Despite being only one hour north of the capital via shinkansen, you’ll mainly see Japanese commuters on the train.

But don’t be fooled by the lack of tourists! Takasaki has some unforgettable sightseeing opportunities if you know where to go.

The city’s main tourist attraction is Byakue Kannon , the White-Robed Kannon. This impressive statue rises 40 meters high, and visitors can climb to the top for some epic views. The road leading up to Byakue Kannon, Ishiharamachi, is a traditional shopping street lined with cherry blossom trees.

You’ll also spot plenty of daruma here and around Jiganin templ e. These red dolls with painted faces are said to bring good luck, and you can buy your very own daruma fortune from the temple shop.

If your visit falls between April and early May, take a trip out to Misatoshibazakura Park . Every spring, thousands of flowers turn the ground into a Dr. Seussian wonderland of color and patterns.

Masamune mounted on horse statue against partly cloudy sky.

What do Masamune, art, and beer all have in common? They’re the main attractions in Sendai!

Located 90 minutes north of Tokyo via the Akita shinkansen, Sendai is an eclectic port city. Most tourists come here to see Zuihōden Temple , the ornate temple where Date Masamune is enshrined. The nearby Sendai Castle ruins offer great views over the city.

And the Miyagi Museum of Art displays everything from Japanese silk screens to 19th century Western paintings.

Japanese beer fans can book a tour of Kirin Beer Factory, which concludes with a tasting session. It’s a popular attraction with limited slots, so be sure to reserve your spot in advance.

Sanjusangendo Temple with cherry blossoms in Kyoto.

To be frank, I wasn’t sure whether or not to include Kyoto on this list of shinkansen day trips from Tokyo. It seems almost sacrilegious to suggest a brief trip to (what I consider) Japan’s greatest city.

But if you simply cannot spend more time in Kyoto, here’s what I recommend: either spend the whole day in Arashiyama, or do the eastern route of shrines and temples.

The Arashiyama district is where you’ll find Sagano bamboo forest , one of Japan’s most famous places . It’s also home to several amazing temples, including Tenryuji and Hōgon-in . There’s even a macaque park at the top of Mount Arashiyama , where you can watch wild monkeys scamper through the trees. 

But Arashiyama is often packed with tourists, making it hard to get around in a timely fashion. Even if you took the earliest shinkansen from Tokyo to Kyoto, you won’t be able to fit much else into your day trip.

The other option is to check out a bunch of shrines and temples and the Gion “geisha” district. Most of Kyoto’s best sites lie in the Higashiyama Ward, which spans north along the Kamo River. There are sightseeing buses that run on a frequent loop through Kyoto, so it’s easy to use Kyoto’s public transit to hop on and off at the key sights.

The must sees in this area include Tofukuji Temple, Rengeoin Sanjusangendo, Kiyomizu-dera, Kodaiji, Yasaka Shrine, and Gion . If you have more time and energy, take the sightseeing bus up to Kinkaku-ji , the famous Golden Pavilion, before heading back to Kyoto Station.

With so many Tokyo day trips to choose from, you’ll have no problem getting your money’s worth from the JR pass! For more travel tips and resources, subscribe to my newsletter below.

1 thought on “11 Best Day Trips From Tokyo by Bullet Train”

Took your advice yesterday- we’re at the end of a two week visit to Tokyo- and took the shankinsen to Omiya and then on to Kawagoe. The bonsai park in Omiya wasn’t open, but the park we walked through to get there was lovely. So, after an Mos burger (had to be done at some stage) we went on to Kawagoe which is a fantastic recommendation and a brilliant place to visit too. We wouldn’t have known about it had it not been for your blog – thank you!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

10 Top Tourist Spots and Attractions near Tokyo: Day Trip to Enjoy History & Nature

Where are the top tourist spots near Tokyo? There are many bucket list-worthy tourist spots and attractions just around 1-2 hours outside Tokyo that are perfect for a day trip! Here we’ll introduce the TOP 10 tourist spots near Tokyo with historical architecture and the unique natural beauty of rolling mountains and gorgeous waterfalls. Main image: PIXTA

1. Nikko: Toshogu Shrine, Beautiful World Heritage Site

2. kawagoe: a style town of the edo period, 3. karuizawa: tokyo’s nearest resort for skiing and shopping, 4. kamakura & enoshima: a refreshing oceanside place filled with history, 5. yokohama: delicious food, historic locations, and unique shopping, 6. hakone: hot springs, a scenic lake and mountains, 7. chichibu: shibazakura and chichibu night festival, 8. hitachi-naka: day trips to ibaraki’s great outdoors, 9. narita: close to the airport, layover tours, and more, 10. makuhari: concerts, japanese gardens, and shopping, a day trip outside tokyo: now you’re set where to go, what to do.

First, we’ll start with Nikko , which houses an elaborate temple dedicated to Tokugawa’s first shogun, then Kawagoe which charmingly preserves old Tokyo. Plus, you can enjoy activities like skiing in Karuizawa, historical walks in Kamakura , Onsen hot springs in Hakone , and breathtaking displays of nature in Hitachi-naka. Finally, sightseeing aside, Yokohama , Makuhari, and Narita are prime dining and shopping opportunities.

©JNTO

Nikko , home to the world-renowned Nikko Toshogu Shrine , is located just north of Tokyo in Tochigi Prefecture . It is an area full of beautiful natural scenery that’s stunning in every season . It is only about 2 hours by train from Tokyo, and you can enjoy being surrounded by ancient monuments, temples , and the comforting blanket of fresh air and refreshing nature . Access to Nikko From Tokyo Station , take the JR Tohoku Shinkansen to Utsunomiya Station (about 120min.) At Utsunomiya Station change to the JR Nikko Line to Nikko Station (about 40 min.) To Toshogu Shrine , take a bus from Nikko Station (5-10 minutes, depending on the route), and walk 5 min.

Nikko Toshogu Shrine Nikko Toshogu Shrine is named in honor of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first Shogun general in the Edo period. Its history goes back more than 400 years. In the Nikko Toshogu area, there are 55 national cultural treasures, including 8 national treasures and 34 important cultural properties. It is also registered as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. It is definitely the first place not to be missed when visiting Nikko . An attraction you’ll remember forever. There are 2 famous sculptures that you can’t miss among the many national treasures here. The most famous are the Three Wise Monkeys which are carved in the shapes of proverbial principles, “see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil.” Another popular draw is the lifelike Sleeping Cat sculpture , it is an unusual figure for traditional Japanese architecture . Visitors often muse if the cat is truly sleeping, or merely pretending in order to nab the sparrows depicted nearby!

Nikko Tosho-gu

  • Address 2301, Sannai, Nikko-shi, Tochigi, 321-1431 View Map
  • Nearest Station Nikko Station (JR Nikko Line) 20 minutes on foot
  • Phone Number 0288-54-0560

Edo Wonderland Nikko Edomura If you want to experience the magnificence of the Edo era in Japan 400 years ago, you must visit Edo Wonderland, Nikko Edomura ! The streets of the Edo era are fully displayed in this expansive historical theme park , and there are many fun facilities and traditional performances to enjoy. Suppose you feel that it is not enough. In that case, you can also change into period clothes and enjoy playing the role of a period actor – ninja (kids only), samurai, princess, geisha, lord, or police officer, anything you choose! Restaurants in Edomura serve Soba -noodle, Kushiyaki, other Japanese cuisines, and seasonal specialties. Snacking in the period town is also fun, with colorful sweet dumplings or shaved ice in the summer .

Edo Wonderland Nikko Edomura

  • Address 470-2, Karakura, Nikko-shi, Tochigi, 321-2524 View Map
  • Nearest Station Kinugawa-Onsen Station (Tobu Kinugawa Line)
  • Phone Number 0288-77-1777

Lake Chuzenji and Kegon Waterfall Lake Chuzenji, a famous spot where you can enjoy the appearance of different seasons , is a beautiful lake formed by a volcanic eruption 20,000 years ago. It is also the highest lake in Japan. There are leisure facilities around the lake and different activities to enjoy, such as kayaking or taking the sightseeing ferry around the lake . With Akechidaira Ropeway, you can enjoy the natural beauty of all seasons from the sky-view. Part of Lake Chuzenji is Kegon Waterfall, which was considered one of the “Eight Views“ that best show Japan back in 1927. The main falls have a height of 97 meters and are surrounded by lush nature . The most popular time to visit is in the fall when the leaves turn orange, red, and yellow, making the scene look like a place from a fairytale. You can view the falls from the top for a small fee to take an elevator down for a closer view.

Lake Chuzenji

  • Address Chuguushi, Nikko-shi, Tochigi, 321-1661 View Map
  • Nearest Station Nikko Station (JR Nikko Line)

©JNTO

Located north of Tokyo in Saitama Prefecture , Kawagoe can be reached in about half an hour from Tokyo, making it a great day-trip destination. Kawagoe retains a lot of cultural monuments and buildings from the Edo period (1603-1868) and is full of strong Edo charm. The unique landscape formed by modern buildings co-existing with preserved treasures is incredible, and there are many well-known old shops and foods in the area as well. Access to Kawagoe From Ikebukuro Station, take the Tobu Tojo Line to Kawagoe Station (About 60 min.).

Kimono Make-over at Taisho Roman Dori In Kawagoe, it’s popular for visitors to dress up in kimonos to experience authentic Japanese culture. The most representative scene of Kawagoe is the Taisho Roman Dori, or street, along which old storehouse-like houses with black plaster walls and tiled roofs are situated. Many date back to the Edo period. There are many specialty shops, restaurants, and snack bars on the sides of the street and in the alleyways between the buildings. Take a selfie in a Kimono at Taisho Roman Dori!

Time Bell Tower (Toki no kane) The Bell of Time (Toki no Kane) is also a very famous and popular landmark . This 16-meter-high bell tower was first built between 1627-1634 and has provided timekeeping services to residents for 400 years. Visitors and locals alike can hear the historical chimes four times a day – at 6 a.m., noon, 3 p.m., and 6 p.m. This is one of the most photogenic spots in Kawagoe and taking a selfie on a rickshaw with this Bell tower will give you a gorgeous shot.

Toki no Kane

  • Address 15-7, Saiwaicho, Kawagoe-shi, Saitama, 350-8601 View Map
  • Nearest Station Hon-Kawagoe Station (Seibu Shinjuku Line) 15 minutes on foot
  • Phone Number 049-224-6097

Kita-in Temple Kita-in, a Buddhist temple , is another must-see historical building in the area. As it features the only remaining building of the original Edo Castle . This building was transported here by Shogun Tokugawa Iemitsu, and so it was saved from the earthquakes and bombings that destroyed the main building in Tokyo during the 1900s. Historical significance aside, this is also a famous Sakura, or cherry blossom, viewing place that attracts countless tourists to come to see the flowers every year when they are in bloom!

Kawagoedaishi Kitain Temple

  • Address 1-20-1, Kosenbamachi, Kawagoe-shi, Saitama, 350-0036 View Map
  • Nearest Station Kawagoe Station (JR Kawagoe Line / Tobu Tojo Line) 20 minutes on foot
  • Phone Number 049-222-0859

Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine If you want to pray for love, a happy marriage, or good relationships, the must-visit place is Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine , which is about 1500 years old. In Japan, there is an old saying that your fated lover is clinging to your little finger with a thin red line. Adorable wish-charms made with red string are available here to help you find your soulmate. A tunnel of prayer boards (Ema) can be found here, filled with warm-hearted dedications. Feel free to buy and make your own, or simply walk through. Between July and early September is the season of wind chimes here, some 2,000 wind chimes are hung around the shrine . When the wind blows, the chimes sway and ring crisply and sweetly, the beautiful pictures and videos you take are sure to become precious memories (not to mention social media hits)!

Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine

  • Address 2-11-3 Miyashitamachi, Kawagoe City, Saitama Prefecture, 350-0052 View Map
  • Nearest Station Kawagoe Station (JR Kawagoe Line / Tobu Tojo Line) 10 minutes by bus
  • Phone Number 049-224-0589

Candy Alley (Kashiya Yokocho) Candy Alley (Kashiya Yokocho) is another street where you can buy candy and snacks. Kawagoe is famous for sweet potatoes, so keep an eye out for snacks made with this local specialty. Not only can you find cute and nostalgic sweets , but the many handmade treats in beautiful packaging are also perfect for bringing home as gifts. There are a lot of food and snacks to choose from while walking the old street. Our food recommendation is the eel bowl (Unaju, in Japanese) found at century-old specialty shop Ogawa Kiku. It is made with carefully selected Japanese eel with fresh and fatty meat. The store’s seventh-generation secret eel sauce is incredibly appetizing as well! Finally, COEDO beer is brewed here in Kawagoe, so beer-lovers should be sure to try some.

Kashiya Yokocho Candy Alley

  • Address 2, Motomachi, Kawagoe-shi, Saitama, 350-0062 View Map
  • Nearest Station Kawagoe Station (JR Kawagoe Line / Tobu Tojo Line)

Image: PIXTA

Karuizawa is a European-style resort that you can enjoy throughout the year. Located in the highlands and surrounded by verdant greenery, the area can still be cool and pleasant in the hot summer . In autumn it is filled with beautiful maple leaves, and in winter here you can find one of the closest ski resorts to Tokyo. In 1886, a missionary from Canada, Alexander Croft Shaw, found that the natural beauty of Karuizawa was similar to his hometown. Shaw built a villa and began to introduce more people to the area. Since then, the area has been popular among foreigners, and over time Karuizawa was turned into a European-style resort. Access to Karuizawa From Tokyo Station , take the JR Hokuriku Shinkansen to Karuizawa Station (About 70 min.)

The Karuizawa Prince Hotel Ski Resort Skiing is the most representative attraction in Karuizawa in winter . The Karuizawa Prince Hotel Ski Resort is one of the closest ski resorts to Tokyo and day ski trips using rental skis or snowboards are available here! There are several ski courses with different levels of difficulty so that adults and children alike can enjoy the joy of skiing together.

Prince Snow Resort Karuizawa

  • Address 389-0102 Karuizawa, Karuizawa-Machi, Kita-Saku-Gun, Nagano-Ken, 389-0102 View Map
  • Nearest Station Karuizawa Station (Hokuriku Shinkansen Line / Shinano Railway)
  • Phone Number 0267-42-5588

Reserve a Lift ticket in advance

  • Pack Ticket

▼Early-bird lift tickets are recommended for winter skiing in Japan▼

Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza Outlets Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza outlet is loved very much by foreign tourists and is located just a few steps from the Karuizawa Prince Ski Resort. Only a 3-minute walk from the South Exit of JR Karuizawa Station to the shopping complex, there are more than 200 well-known brands and restaurants gathered here for your shopping enjoyment. It is also one of the most scenic outlets in the suburbs of Tokyo. The park and beautiful lakeside scenery make shopping here feel very comfortable indeed!

Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza

  • Address Karuizawa, Kitasaku District, Nagano 389-0102

Karuizawa Ginza Street For souvenir shopping and small snacks, visit Karuizawa Ginza Street, Karuizawa’s version of Tokyo’s Ginza . This street is famous for its atmosphere of mixed western-Japanese architecture and a great place for a romantic stroll, or for photography fans, a scene ready for that perfect Instagram shot. You can rent cycles in this area and enjoy riding back and forth between the birch forest and the shopping district.

Image: PIXTA

St. Paul Catholic Church St. Paul Catholic Church is a wooden church built in 1935 by the architect Antonin Raymond, who studied under Frank Lloyd Wright and helped him with the Imperial Hotel construction project (actually, he was the one who completed the project instead of Wright). With a steeply angled roof, this church’s romantic and beautiful atmosphere attracts many couples who want to propose to each other or even hold their wedding here.

  • Address 179 Karuizawa, Kitasaku District, Nagano 389-0102

Kumoba Ike, Cloud-filled Pond Kumoba, or the Cloud-filled Pond is listed as one of the must-visit places in Karuizawa. The calm and tranquil water of the lake will reflect the different hues of the surrounding forest and blue sky, it’s stunning in every season . There are lovely walking trails around the lake , as well as restaurants and cafes . Whether you’re looking to enjoy walking, cycling, or just dining with beautiful views, it is a very fun area to visit!

Kumoba Pond

The Kamakura -Enoshima area, located in Kanagawa, should be high on the list of any day trip to the suburbs of Tokyo. It can be easily reached by train in about an hour from Tokyo, and it is splendid all year round, having countless sightseeing spots and facilities. This area has a long history as one of Japan’s former ancient capitals, and here you can find various temples and shrines , and countless picturesque views. The coastline scenery, fun water activities, and vast assortment of snacks and foods are fun in any season . It’s a great area for all ages, and whether you’re solo, in a group, or with family, it has been a favorite destination for tourists. It is also the location of many Japanese dramas. Access to Kamakura From Tokyo Station , take the JR Yokosuka Line to Kamakura Station (About 60 min.)

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine is Kamakura ’s most important shrine . There are 2 parallel approaches to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine , Wakamiya-oji, meaning the Avenue of the young prince, and Komachi-dori, meaning Street of Beauty . Wakamiya-oji is a historic street built in 1182 to pray for the safe delivery of the Kamakura Shogun’s prince. Komachi-dori is a shopping street with lots of snacking opportunities. You can try Matcha soft-ice cream from Kamakura -chacha or takeaway sushi from Hannari-inari.

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu

  • Address 2-1-31, Yukinoshita, Kamakura-shi, Kanagawa, 248-8588 View Map
  • Nearest Station Kamakura Station (JR Yokosuka Line / JR Shonan Shinjuku Line / Enoshima Electric Railway Line) 10 minutes on foot
  • Phone Number 0467-22-0315

Hydrangea Temple and Bamboo Temple Meigetsuin Temple , also known as the Hydrangea Temple , is a must-visit spot for the rainy season (late June to early July in Japan). The ancient temple is full of tranquility on weekdays. During the annual rainy season , about 2500 hydrangeas bloom around the temple grounds. On the other hand, Hokoku-ji Temple is known for its bamboo. Bamboo groves are known to muffle noise, and you can enjoy the tranquility and the bamboo leaves rustling in the wind.

Kamakura Daibutsu (Great Buddha of Kamakura ) Kamakura Daibutsu, or Great Buddha of Kamakura , was built in 1252. The height of the Buddha is 11.3m, and the total height including the pedestal is 13.3m, which is as tall as a 4-floor building. The weight is 121t, so even a big Tsunami in 1498 could not wash away this statue. The photoshoot with you and the Great Buddha will give you a memorable photo that you can show off to your friends for years.

The Great Buddha and Kotoku-in

  • Address 4-2-28, Hase, Kamakura-shi, Kanagawa, 248-0016 View Map
  • Nearest Station Hase Station (Enoshima Electric Railway Line) 7 minutes on foot
  • Phone Number 0467-22-0703

Enoden, Slam Dunk Scene in Real Life If you are a railway fan and you want to enjoy the retro and nostalgic Enoden Line , there are 2 stations we recommend visiting. “ Kamakura High School Stop” is featured in the manga Slam Dunk . At the level crossing near this station, you’ll see many tourists from around Asia who are looking for the perfect photo angle. Don’t forget to take pictures of a beautiful sunset at Inamuraga-saki, the oldest surfing point in Japan. Hungry travelers will definitely fall in love with the rustic Café Yoridokoro; their menu is reasonably priced and filled with local specialties.

Enoshima Island’s Attractions Enoshima is a small island that is accessible by bridge. The island also has facilities such as beaches , hot springs , an aquarium , observation decks, and beautiful scenery that transforms completely from day to night. The central point of the island is the Enoshima Shrine , which is dedicated to the goddess of the ocean, Benzaiten. It is a steep upward climb to visit all of the shrines and reach the Enoshima Sea Candle , but there is an option to take a paid escalator! The observation deck of the Sea Candle gives you the chance to get the perfect sunset photos of Mt. Fuji, so have the cameras ready!

Enoshima

  • Address 2-3, Enoshima, Fujisawa-shi, Kanagawa, 251-0036 View Map
  • Nearest Station Katase-Enoshima Station (Odakyu Enoshima Line) 10 minutes on foot

Image: PIXTA

What to Eat in Enoshima There are a lot of restaurants and cafes along the Kamakura coast. Among them, Il Chianti Beache and Amalfi Della Sera Kamakura restaurant offer excellent views of Enoshima, the ocean, and if you are very lucky, Mt. Fuji. When the weather is good, you can eat pizza and other delectable Italian dishes on the outdoor deck. Enoshima is also famous for its seafood . The specialty is Shirasu, called Whitebait in English. Seafood bowls are popular, and many restaurants serve food prepared with Shirasu or bonito, a fish from the tuna family, and they are a must-try. For those squeamish about eating raw fish, they also have boiled bonito. On the old streets near Enoshima Shrine , you’ll find a delicious snack - Takosenbei, or Octopus Cracker. It is also highly recommended to try! On an iron plate with a temperature of nearly 200 degrees, octopus is quickly pressed into crispy Japanese crackers. The senbei has a seductive aroma and a sweet and salty taste.

Image: PIXTA

Yokohama is a famous tourist destination for many reasons. A place almost anyone will know is Yokohama Chinatown , a mecca of Chinese cuisine and architecture in the middle of a very Japanese city. But Yokohama has far more to offer than its exciting Chinatown , from the shimmering nighttime views of neighborhood Minato Mirai to the rich history found in locations like the Red Brick Warehouse and attractions like the CupNoodles Museum , the options are endless. Access to Yokohama From Tokyo Station , take the Keihin Tohoku Line to Ishikawacho (Motomachi/Chukagai) Station (About 60 min.) For Yokohama Chinatown , get off the train and walk 10 min.

Stroll in Mouthwatering Smells from Chinatown Of course, any visit to Yokohama should start with Chinatown . The moment visitors step through the huge, elaborately decorated gate, they are transported to a Chinese dreamscape – with bright red hues, hanging lanterns, and mouthwatering smells from every restaurant. Though there is no shortage of restaurants, a good way to enjoy the atmosphere is by purchasing from street vendors – this will allow you to sample various cuisines in Yokohama Chinatown . A popular vendor of steamed buns is Edosei. Xiaolong Bao is another popular choice of food in Chinatown , though you may know them by their English name, Soup Dumplings. Adventurous eaters can try the Shark Fin Shaobin.

Yokohama Chinatown

  • Address Naka-ku, Yokohama-shi, Kanagawa, 231-0023 View Map
  • Nearest Station Motomachi-Chukagai Station (Minatomirai Line) 1 minute on foot

The Red Brick Warehouse Once visitors have had their fill of local delicacies, they can move on to appreciating Yokohama ’s culture and history. The Red Brick Warehouse is a building that makes an impression, due to not only its size but its contrast to the surrounding cityscape. There are two buildings that were constructed in 1911 and 1913. Due to the strength of their structure, they survived the Great Kanto Earthquake which devastated the surrounding area. Today Building no.1 is used for cultural events, like art shows and exhibitions, while Building no. 2 has a shopping mall , restaurants, and a newly opened observation deck on the third floor.

Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse

  • Address 1-1, Shinkou, Naka-ku, Yokohama-shi, Kanagawa, 231-0001 View Map
  • Nearest Station Sakuragicho Station (JR Negishi Line / Line 3 (Yokohama Blue Line))
  • Phone Number 045-211-1515

Minato Mirai Neighborhood Yokohama evenings should be spent in the Minato Mirai neighborhood, which is famous for its night views and colorful Ferris wheel called Cosmo-clock 21. It’s a well-known “confession” spot, where people confess their love to their crush. Minato Mirai marks a shining and romantic end to a Yokohama day trip.

Yokohama Minato Mirai 21

  • Address Naka-ku, Yokohama-shi, Kanagawa, Nishi-ku, 220-0012 View Map
  • Nearest Station Yokohama Station (JR Tokaido Main Line / JR Yokosuka Line / JR Shonan Shinjuku Line / JR Keihin-Tohoku Line / JR Negishi Line / JR Ueno Tokyo Line / Line 3 (Yokohama Blue Line) / Tokyu Toyoko Line / Minatomirai Line / Keikyu Main Line / Sagami Railway Main Line)

Motomachi & Yamashita Park Right next to Yokohama Chinatown is a local shopping street, Motomachi Shopping Street. High-quality clothes, shoes, and bags are available from Yokohama original brands. This shopping street is pet-friendly and there are pet-wear shops and pet-only water fountains. Bakeries in this street are serving freshly baked bread at reasonable prices. Chilling at Yamashita Park after the foodie excitement is also recommended, where locals walk, talk, jog, and relax. There is also something extra-special walking through this park this year. GUNDAM FACTORY YOKOHAMA pops up in the bay area Until March 31, 2023, and you can see the real scale GUNDAM that is 18 meters-high and 25t, and strikes a different pose every 30 min.

Yamashita Park

  • Address 279, Yamashitacho, Naka-ku, Yokohama-shi, Kanagawa, 231-0023 View Map
  • Nearest Station Motomachi-Chukagai Station (Minatomirai Line) 3 minutes on foot
  • Phone Number 045-671-3648

Gumyoji Temple Gumyoji Temple , which is believed to have been founded in the year 721, is a respite from the Yokohama hustle and bustle. The temple features an 11-headed Kannon statue, who is the Goddess of Mercy. The statue can be touched by placing a hand on a wooden pillar in the courtyard which is attached to the statue by a cord. It’s a 30min. train ride by Keikyu-honsen from Yokohama station.

  • Address 267 Gumyojicho, Minami-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 232-0067

Image: PIXTA

Hakone is a well-known Onsen hot springs resort about 1.5 hours from Tokyo. There are many attractions like Lake Ashinoko, Owakudani Valley, Hakone Shrine , and the Hakone Tozan Railway that connects the scenic spots. The Odakyu Romancecar express between Shinjuku and Hakone -yumoto station is the best choice to get there. The first carriage and the last carriage have special seats called tenbo-seki (view-seat) to enjoy the panoramic view. Access to Hakone From Shinjuku Station, take the Odakyu Romancecar to Hakone -Yumoto Station (About 110 min.)

Which Onsen to visit in Hakone ? Hakone has 5 main Onsen areas; Hakone -yumoto, Kowakudani, Gora, Moto- hakone , Sengokubara. ・ Hakone -Yumoto, where the Odakyu Romancecar arrives, is a popular tourist spot, with many hotels and souvenir shops . ・Kowakudani is the location for luxury hotels , with good access to the hot spring theme park Yunessan and the Hakone Open-Air Museum . (Yunessan accepts guests with tattoos if they are covered with a bandage or rash guard.) ・Gora is where the Hakone Tozan Railway starts and is a hub to many sightseeing spots. Mountain railways, cable cars, and buses converge. ・Moto- Hakone is the eastern area of Lake Ashinoko, where historical sites like Hakone Shrine , Hakone Sekisho, or Hakone Checkpoint are located. ・Art lovers should not miss Sengokuhara, where museums such as Hakone Lalique Art Museum , Hakone Glass Forest , Prince of the Stars Museum , and Pola Museum of Art are all located. In Autumn Sengokuhara is famous for its views of silver grass fields.

Owakudani Valley and Black Eggs Owakudani Valley is a crater created by the last eruption of Mount Hakone and located at an altitude of 800 - 1000 meters on the north side of Mt. Kammuriga-take. Taking the Hakone Ropeway from Soun-zan to Togendai is a fantastic experience, overlooking the majestic Hakone scenery of Owakudani and Ubako from higher up, it’s about a 30min. ride to enjoy all of the main sights of the area. Kuro-Tamago are black eggs with the unique smell of this area’s sulfur springs. Don’t let the color and smell scare you! These are chicken eggs boiled in the sulfuric waters of Owakudani, and locals say that eating one will add 7 years to your life. Since Owakudani is still an active fumarolic zone, the strong sulfuric smell and hot steam have a strong impact on tourists. Because of the gases in the area, people who have concerns with their heart or respiratory, pregnant women, babies, and the elderly are recommended to tour by car instead.

Owakudani

  • Address 1251, Sengokuhara, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa, 250-0631 View Map
  • Nearest Station Gora Station (Hakone Tozan Railway / Hakone Tozan Cable Car)
  • Phone Number 0460-84-5201

Pirate Boat and Hakone Shrine If you want to enjoy the magnificent scenery of Hakone , come and take a fun Pirate Boat ride around and see Lake Ashinoko! Done in the shape of a real battleship from the 18th century, you’ll love the beautifully carved Hakone Lake Ashinoko sightseeing boat. Cruising along Lake Ashinoko, you can admire Mount Fuji , the huge red torii that stands by the lake , and the Hakone Shrine . Following the red Torii-gate up from the lake , visitors can enjoy an upward climb through dense forests to reach the hidden heart of the shrine .

Hakone Shrine

  • Address 80-1, Motohakone, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa, 250-0522 View Map
  • Nearest Station Hakone-Yumoto Station (Hakone Tozan Railway)
  • Phone Number 0460-83-7123

Image: PIXTA

Chichibu is a city full of nature and history in Saitama prefecture . Though the cherry blossom season in Tokyo ends in early April you can continue the spring fun by planning a day trip north to Chichibu to enjoy the Shiba-zakura, meaning ‘lawn cherry blossoms’ in Japanese. You can reach Chichibu in about 80min. via the Seibu Railway from Ikebukuro . There are many natural sights in the Chichibu region, it’s filled with lush green mountains and clear rivers . Chichibu also has a lot of outdoor activities in addition to relaxing hot springs . Access to Chichibu From Ikebukuro Station, take the Express train to Chichibu Station on the Seibu Ikebukuro Line (About 105min.)

Shibazakura Hill at Hitsujiyama Park In the vast Hitsujiyama Park in the heart of Chichibu, a spectacular blanket of Shibazakura is planted. The colorful Shibazakura moss phlox is in full bloom every year from April to May. There are 9 types of Shibazakura, ranging from pink, and white to blue-purple. They are scattered around the hills and form a carpet of flowers. Shibazakura lingers a little while longer than Sakura. Tourists can enjoy seeing them for around one full month. During the shibazakura season , Hitsujiyama Park holds the Shibazakura Festival, which gathers special food vendors called Yatai, selling delicious snacks, Chichibu local agricultural products, and handicrafts.

Hitsujiyama Park

  • Address 6267, Omiya, Chichibu-shi, Saitama, 368-0023 View Map
  • Nearest Station Seibu-Chichibu Station (Seibu Chichibu Line) 15 minutes on foot
  • Phone Number 0494-25-5209

Chichibu Night Festival at Chichibu Shrine In winter , the annual Chichibu Night Festival is even more popular. This festival is held every year on December 2nd to celebrate Chichibu Shrine and is one of the few grand fireworks festivals held during in winter in Japan. With a history of more than 300 years, it is considered on par with Kyoto’s Gion Festival and the Hida Takayama Festival and is listed as one of Japan’s three major float festivals. Chichibu Shrine , said to have a history of more than 2,000 years, has been incense-filled since ancient times. The main shrine inside was reconstructed by Tokugawa Ieyasuin 1592 and has a strong Edo period architectural style. There are also many beautiful carved decorations by the same sculptors of Nikko Toshogu Shrine .

Chichibu Shrine

  • Address Chichibu-shi, Saitama Banba 1-3, 368-0041 View Map
  • Nearest Station Chichibu Station (Chichibu Railway) 3 minutes on foot
  • Phone Number 0494-22-0262

Nagatoro Line-Kudari Boating For those seeking exciting outdoor activities , Chichibu has Nagatoro Line-kudari (boating). Nagatoro Valley is known for its beauty , and Line-kudari starts calmly in the scenic area then gets wild down at the rapids. Professionally trained boatmen will entertain you all along the way. Be sure to put your cameras and mobile phones in your backpacks.

Mitsumine Shrine , the Hidden Wolf Shrine Mitsumine Shrine is the true hidden gem of Chichibu. Located at an altitude of 1,100 meters, this shrine is not an easy spot to get to. You need an hour-long bus ride on a winding road, with a huge dam and mountains on the way, but you’re guaranteed to be impressed when you get there - it’s said to be the birthplace of Japanese mountain asceticism. The wolf is worshiped as the God in this shrine . This Shrine is registered as a historical Geosite of Chichibu Geopark.

Mitsumine Shrine

  • Address 298-1, Mitsumine, Chichibu-shi, Saitama, 369-1902 View Map
  • Nearest Station Kumagaya Station (Chichibu Railway)
  • Phone Number 0494-55-0241

Comfortable Onsen Experience There are also many natural hot springs in the Chichibu area . The most convenient one is the Onsen facility called Matsuri-no-Yu located next to Seibu Chichibu Station. Here, there are 2 kinds of baths with different spring qualities and curative effects. The local natural hot spring water from 2,000 meters underground, contains iodine, and has a relaxing effect. Here they also analyze the quality of hot springs in various locations and recreate hot spring water from all over Japan. Enjoy delicious local Chichibu foods like Udon , Miso-potato or Waraji-katsu afterward! (Visitors with tattoos are not accepted at this facility.)

Image: PIXTA

Hitachi-naka City in Ibaraki Prefecture is located on the Pacific coast and is a destination blessed with abundant nature . Hitachi Seaside Park is about 2 hours by train and bus from Tokyo Station (the nearest Station is JR Katsuta Station). Access to Hitachinaka From Tokyo Station , take the JR Joban Line Limited Express to Katsuta Station (About 90 min.) To National Hitachi Seaside Park , take a bus for about 15 min, and walk 10 min.

Gorgeous Seasonal Flowers at Hitachi Seaside Park Hitachi Seaside Park is renowned for its variety of beautiful flowers throughout the year. There are daffodils, tulips, and canola in spring ; lavender, sunflowers, roses, and green Kochia (also called “broom-grass”) in summer ; and cosmos and vivid crimson Kochia in autumn . The park has an amusement park , sports plaza, bike trail, golf course, and a BBQ plaza. It is pretty for bringing family or friends here for a pleasant leisure time! Among all of these attractions, the large and picturesque flower field of nemophila (baby blue eyes) should immediately come to mind. Known as “the gorgeous blue flower field in Japan” in recent years, it has been designated by countless tourists as a must-visit spot to see the magnificent scenery in person. Nemophila bloom in the middle of April to early May each year, with about 5.3 million blue nemophila flowers. In addition to walking tours, the park also provides different ways to explore; you can tak

Hitachi Seaside Park

  • Address 605-4, Onuma, Mawatari, Hitachinaka-shi, Ibaraki, 312-0012 View Map
  • Nearest Station Katsuta Station (JR Joban Line / Hitachinaka Seaside Railway Minato Line)

Mito Kairakuen Garden With another 1-hour train ride from Hitachi Seaside Park , you can visit Mito Kairakuen Garden , which is renowned as one of the 3 most beautiful Japanese gardens . Kairakuen’s name comes from a passage in The Book of Mencius, a classic work by a Chinese philosopher, stating that “people in ancient times enjoyed themselves together with all kinds of people, and therefore enjoyed themselves well.” At the time, these spaces were mostly for the upper classes, but based on the philosophy of the passage, Mito Kairakuen Garden was opened to the common people as well. The garden features beautiful scenery in all seasons of the year but is especially renowned for its Ume (plum) blossoms.

  • Address 1-1251 Migawa, Mito, Ibaraki, 310-0912

2 More Adventures: Fukuroda Falls and Ryujin Ohashi Bungee With a 1-hour drive by car you can enjoy visiting Fukuroda Falls or one of the largest bungees in Japan at Ryujin Ohashi, a huge Suspension Bridge. Fukuroda Falls Fukuroda Falls is a stunning 4-tier waterfall with a height of 120 meters at the tallest point. Surrounded by natural beauty , it is easy to see why this waterfall is rated as one of the top 3 most beautiful waterfalls in Japan. If you visit in the winter , you could be one of the lucky few to catch a glimpse of an icy, glittering, frozen waterfall.

Image: PIXTA

Ryujinkyo Gorge Bungy Ryujin Otsuribashi is one of Japan’s longest suspension bridges, 100 meters above Ryujinkyo Gorge. Thrill seekers can ask for the mercy of the Dragon God (that’s what Ryujin means) by trying the Ryujin Bungy. Those who aren’t up to the jump can still pay a small fee to take a peek off the jumping platform to marvel at the distance. It’s perfect for those who love adventure and the outdoors.

Image: PIXTA

Narita City, which includes Narita Airport , is well-known as an international travel hub that connects Tokyo with the larger world. Featuring ancient temples , nearby historical towns, it is a perfect place for visitors to Japan who are short on time, possibly with a long layover , or searching for attractions close to Tokyo. Access to Narita From Nippori Station, take the Keisei Line to Narita Station (About 70 min.) To Naritasan Shinshoji Temple , walk 10-15 min.

Naritasan Shinshoji Temple Complex Naritasan Shinshoji Temple dates back to the year 940 and features a variety of examples of Japanese architecture , like the Great Pagoda of Peace, done in the Tahoto style, which always has an even number of stories, unlike the usual 3-story Pagoda (Shinshoji Temple has 3-story Pagoda, too). The temple is centered around a principal sacred object Fudo-Myo-o which is rumored to have been carved by the founder of the Shingon sect of Buddhism himself, Kobo Daishi. Once visitors have thoroughly appreciated the dignity of the temple , they will find themselves delighted by Naritasan-Omotesando, the store-lined approach to the temple . This is a typical Japanese shopping street, sloping up to the temple and decorated with flags and lanterns. Visitors can enjoy Japanese snacks and shop for crafts that have been made in this area for centuries.

Naritasan Shinshoji Temple

  • Address 1, Narita, Narita-shi, Chiba, 286-0023 View Map
  • Nearest Station Narita Station (JR Narita Line) 10 minutes on foot
  • Phone Number 0476-22-2111

Historical Town Sawara Though not part of Narita City, the small town of Sawara is highly recommended when visiting the area. The town is centered around its canal, and the shops and residences that line it are either original or restored buildings from the Edo period (1603-1868). Visitors who are lucky enough to come in July or October can experience the Sawara Grand Festival. This festival has been registered as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO. Numerous dolls representing Japanese legends are paraded through the streets in a breathtaking cultural display. Some of these dolls can still be viewed even if the festival is missed, by visiting the Suigo-Sawara Dashi Kaikan Museum .

Historical Town Sawara

  • Address I-1903-1, Katori, Chiba 287-0003

Boso-no-Mura, Chiba Prefectural Open-air Museum For an alternative historical adventure, Chiba Prefectural Boso-no-Mura is a theme park near Narita Airport with plenty of opportunities to get some hands-on experience with traditional Japanese crafts. This museum is huge, with plenty of different areas and eras to explore, from prehistoric to near-modern Japan. Fudoki-no-Oka is an 82-acre zone highlighting nature and history. Here it’s possible to view burial mounds and an authentic (though relocated) farmhouse built in the late 18th century. Furusato-no-Waza (Hometown Arts and Crafts) is a long traditional street featuring recreated houses of merchants, a blacksmith, a tatami mat shop and so on. Here visitors can create really unique souvenirs, like Japanese pottery, or Magatama, pendants representing Yin and Yang. Apart from that, it’s also possible to learn the etiquette for a tea ceremony , wear armor, or enjoy a ride on a Japanese boat pushed by a boatman.

  • Address 1028 Ryukakuji, Sakae, Imba District, Chiba 270-1506

AEON MALL Narita and Shisui Premium Outlets

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

AEON MALL Narita and Shisui Premium Outlets are for those who need to do some last-minute shopping, as both are about 15 min. by bus from Narita Airport .

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

AEON MALL is a popular mall franchise in Japan, and this location has around 170 shops to choose from. When in Japan, check out some Japanese shops like Muji, with its plain, natural aesthetic, or going for the complete opposite – the Sanrio Gift Gate for a cheerful and colorful assault on one’s senses.

The Shisui Premium Outlets have 220 shops, so it is the best opportunity to get discounts on Japanese brands in this area.

AEON MALL Narita

  • Address 24 Uingutsuchiya, Narita, Chiba 286-0029

SHISUI PREMIUM OUTLETS®

  • Address 2-4-1, Iizumi Shisui-machi, Inba-gun, Chiba, Japan 285-0912

Image: PIXTA

For those looking for a glimpse of the Japanese future, today, the Makuhari community in Chiba Prefecture is a must-visit. With most of the Tokyo area already being densely developed (the population of the greater Tokyo area is 13.96 million!), Makuhari is the answer to creating more space as it was partially built on land reclaimed from the ocean. Access to Makuhari From Tokyo Station , take the JR Keiyo Line to Kaihin-Makuhari Station (About 40 min.)

Makuhari Messe and ZOZO Marine Stadium The main attraction of Makuhari is Makuhari Messe, an undeniably gigantic convention center. The main hall, Makuhari Event Hall, is said to seat up to 9,000 guests! It hosts many technology-centered events like the annual Tokyo Game Show , often has concerts by Japanese artists like Glay and Babymetal, as well as international superstars like Lady Gaga and Mariah Carey. It is an excellent place to check out while in Tokyo – you never know what event will be going on during your visit. ZOZO Marine Stadium is the home of Chiba’s baseball team, the Chiba Lotte Marines. Apart from baseball, this is the place to catch music festivals and concerts close to Tokyo.

Makuhari Messe

  • Address 2-1, Nakase, Mihama-ku, Chiba-shi, Chiba, 261-8550 View Map
  • Nearest Station Kaihin-Makuhari Station (JR Keiyo Line) 5 minutes on foot
  • Phone Number 043-296-0001

Makuhari Seaside Park For those who need a break from chaotic city sightseeing, there is Makuhari Seaside Park . This park is so big that is broken up into several blocks, all offering something different. We recommend the C block, which has a traditional Japanese garden , Mihamaen. This exquisitely cultivated garden provides the tranquility that Tokyo often lacks. The Shorai-tei teahouse is an opportunity to sip on Matcha while enjoying Wagashi, the traditional paired sweets which are made of rice, bean paste, and different fruits.

AEON MALL Makuhari, Mitsui Outlet Park

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

AEON MALL Makuhari Shintoshin is a shopping experience for everyone, with a section focused on family, pets, and even sports and activewear. Visitors can enjoy tax-free shopping in certain stores and there is a prayer room available for Muslim guests. There is plenty of entertainment here as well, like virtual sports gaming attraction HERO’S Playground, namco, which has one of the largest prize corners in the region, or Moff animal café, where you can enjoy hanging out with various animals along with your coffee.

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

Mitsui Shopping Park is another option, which is an outlet shopping center. Here you’ll find mostly big international brands, but also some Japanese ones like Seiko and Onitsuka Tiger.

AEON MALL Makuhari Shintoshin

  • Address 1-1 Chi, Toyosuna, Mihama-ku, Chiba, Chiba 261-8535

MITSUI OUTLET PARK MAKUHARI

  • Address 2-6-1 Hibino, Mihama-ku, Chiba City, Chiba Prefecture, 261-0021 View Map
  • Nearest Station Kaihin-Makuhari Station (JR Keiyo Line) 1 minute on foot
  • Phone Number 043-212-8200

Tokyo Disney Resort and Ikspiari Just 30 min. away from Makuhari is Tokyo Disney Resort, which features a park only available in Japan, Tokyo DisneySea. The Mermaid Lagoon, based on the Little Mermaid, and the Arabian Coast, inspired by Aladdin are beautiful and unique, and well worth a visit for any Disney fans. Visitors who don’t have time to enter the theme park can enjoy browsing the shops at the nearby shopping mall , Ikspiari, which also has its own Disney store.

Tokyo Disneyland®

  • Address 1-1, Maihama, Urayasu-shi, Chiba, 279-0031 View Map
  • Nearest Station Maihama Station (JR Keiyo Line) 4 minutes on foot
  • Phone Number 0570-00-8632

Tokyo Disney Sea®

  • Nearest Station Maihama Station (JR Keiyo Line) 13 minutes on foot

After reading this Tokyo Day Trip article, now you know the TOP 10 attractions near Tokyo. A day trip outside Tokyo will allow you to experience a sense of life that is different from the bustling metropolis! It’s there that you can find a completely different side of Japan, one that’ll leave you with incredible memories, snapshots, and videos, while you can dive deeper into the history of Japan. The surrounding Tokyo area has a lot to offer in terms of both natural beauty and historical significance. The ancient temples of Nikko , the glimpses of Mt. Fuji from the Kamakura seaside, the hot springs of Hakone , a ski day trip in Karuizawa, the magnificent flower carpets in Chichibu or Hitachi-naka. Even if your time in Tokyo is short, these meaningful day trip destinations will allow you to attend ancient festivals, walk down the paths of samurai and past heroes, and enjoy a variety of Japanese cuisine – from a dignified cup of matcha to a feast of local seafood . Whether you’re traveling solo or with friends or family, it’s in these areas that you’ll make new memories to cherish!

  • Area Tokyo Station
  • Category Other Nature

Share this article.

Limited time offer: 10% discount coupons available now!

Recommended places for you.

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

KEISEI-YUZEN Naritakukodaiichitaminaruten

Japanese cuisine

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

Miyatake Naritakukodaisantaminaruten

Udon & Soba

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

Sojibo Naritakukodainitaminaruten

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

KAISEN MISAKIKO Naritakukodaiichitaminaruten

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

Yamma Naritakukodaiichitaminaruten

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

LAT. 25° Naritakukodaisantaminarunikaiten

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

Sneak Peek! teamLab Borderless Opens February 9 in New Tokyo Location (2024 Guide)

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

Eco-Friendly Adventure in Okinawa! Discover Motobu Town's Charm with 'Motobu Story Quest'

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

Car Culture in Japan: Inside the World's Most Exciting Automotive Scene

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

Revealing Look at HEAD SPA Kuu: The Japanese Head Spa With Global Acclaim

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival: Enjoy Early-Blooming Sakura in February Near Tokyo

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

Tiny Treasures, Big Adventures: Inside SMALL WORLDS Miniature Museum

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

Autumn Vibes in Aoyama: How Tokyoites Chill

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

Complete Guide to Buying Japanese Medicine in Japan: Phrases and Vocabulary You Need to Know

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

Kichijoji – Explore Tokyo’s Top-Rated Stylish Suburb in Half a Day!

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

Explore Izumi, a charming Japanese city that attracts over 10,000 cranes during the winter

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

JR Tokyo Wide Pass: The One Rail Pass to Sightsee in Tokyo and Beyond (+4 Bonus Sample Itineraries)

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

Tokyo Events: Celebrating Earth Day Tokyo 2018

  • #best ramen tokyo
  • #what to buy in ameyoko
  • #what to bring to japan
  • #new years in tokyo
  • #best izakaya shinjuku
  • #things to do tokyo
  • #japanese nail trends
  • #what to do in odaiba
  • #onsen tattoo friendly tokyo
  • #best sushi ginza
  • #japanese convenience store snacks
  • #best yakiniku shibuya
  • #japanese fashion culture
  • #best japanese soft drinks

Zooming Japan

19 Awesome Day Trips From Tokyo

places to visit 1 hour 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.

Day Trips From Tokyo

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

Day Trips From Tokyo

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!

Day Trips From Tokyo

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 .

Day Trips From Tokyo

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.

Day Trips From Tokyo

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

Day Trips From Tokyo

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.

Day Trips From Tokyo

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.

Day Trips From Tokyo

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.

Day Trips From Tokyo

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.

Day Trips From 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.

Day Trips From Tokyo

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 .

Day Trips From Tokyo

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

Day Trips From Tokyo

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).

Day Trips From Tokyo

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 “.

Day Trips From Tokyo

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

Day Trips From Tokyo

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 ).

Day Trips From Tokyo

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

Day Trips From Tokyo

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.

Day Trips From Tokyo

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

Day Trips From Tokyo

… 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.

Day Trips From Tokyo

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.

Day Trips From Tokyo

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.

Day Trips From Tokyo

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.

Day Trips From Tokyo

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.

Day Trips From Tokyo

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.

Day Trips From Tokyo

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.

Day Trips From Tokyo

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).

Day Trips From Tokyo

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.

Day Trips From Tokyo

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.

Day Trips From Tokyo

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.

Day Trips From Tokyo

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.

Day Trips From Tokyo

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.

Day Trips From Tokyo

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

Never miss any blog posts and important updates and SIGN UP TO OUR NEWSLETTER !

You may also like.

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

Nihondaira and Kunozan Toshogu Shrine

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

Tanaka Castle in Fujieda (Shizuoka)

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

One of the World’s Tallest Statues: Ushiku...

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

What I learned from Climbing Mount Fuji in August

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

Kanamara Matsuri: Phallus Festival in Kawasaki

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

Great Japanese Castles You Just Have to Visit

74 comments.

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!

Leave a Comment X

  Notify me when new comments are added.

I agree to the storage and handling of my data requested in this form. Read the privacy policy for more information. *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Privacy Overview

42 Best Day Trips from Tokyo

42 fantastic day trips from Tokyo

Are you looking for day trips from Tokyo ?

From discovering stunning temples to exploring awesome museums, travelers can find an endless list of things to do in Tokyo. Once you feel you have experienced the best the city has to offer, take a short side trip to these amazing destinations nearby.

  • Cultural day trips from Tokyo (1-15)
  • Day trips from Tokyo for nature lovers (16-37)
  • Day trips from Tokyo for Kids (37-42)

Cultural day trips from Tokyo

1. kamakura.

1 hour from Tokyo railway station / 6-10€ (one-way)

Kamakura day trips from Tokyo

  • Kamakura day trips from Tokyo

35 minutes from Tokyo railway station / 24-40€ (one way)

Odawara day trips from Tokyo

Odawara city is the entrance to the Fuji Hakone Izu National Park, Odawara Castle is a must visit if you’re into Japanese castles. You can also enjoy some freshly caught fish with a bowl of rice at the Odawara Fish Market Den.

3. Enoshima

1 hour from Tokyo railway station / 8-11€ (one way)

Enoshima day trips from Tokyo

Pleasant tourist island just off the coast but connected by a bridge to the mainland. The island offers a variety of attractions such as a shrine, observation tower and caves, a park. There is also an interesting aquarium worth visiting.

  • Enoshima day trips from Tokyo

1 hour from Tokyo railway station / 5-7€ (one way)

Kawagoe day trips from Tokyo

A charming merchant town preserved to make it a great place to visit to experience their heritage and culture. Feel their traditional buildings and try out their great food. There are plenty of traditional restaurants and cafes.

  • Kawagoe day trips from Tokyo

5. Kawasaki

20 minutes from Tokyo railway station / 2-4€ (one way)

Kawasaki day trips from Tokyo

Most probably known for the Penis Festival, Kawasaki has other attractions such as Daishi Temple, the Japan Open-air Folk House Museum to stroll around. You can also wander around through the traditional buildings carefully preserved.

6. Takasaki

50 minutes from Tokyo railway station / 28-45€ (one way)

Takasaki day trips from Tokyo

A laid back city in Gunma as it is a rarely visited gem. It’s the home of Daruma (red angry face figures who apparently bring good luck in accomplishing goals), here you can find plenty of these souvenirs. You can visit the Jiganin Temple complex to see Darumas which also happens to be near one of the biggest Kannon statues in Japan.

7. Yokohama

30 minutes from Tokyo railway station / 4€ (one way)

Yokohama day trips from Tokyo

The second biggest city in Japan with over 3 million people, Yokohama has plenty to entertain you. From stunning night views, to ramen museums and amazing art scene and China-town.

  • Yokohama day trips from Tokyo

8. Chichibu

2h 15 minutes from Tokyo railway station / 27-40€ (one way)

Chichibu day trips from Tokyo

Famous for its shiba-zakura festival in spring, Chichibu has plenty of shrines and temples to visit as well as a pilgrimage route featuring 34 Buddhist temples. You can visit the Meisenkan to see original looms and buy some local made silk.

1 hour from Tokyo railway station / 20€ (one way)

Mito day trips from Tokyo

Famous for its beautifully lush gardens, Mito was once the stronghold of the Mito clan in the Edo period. You can also enjoy the incredible modern Art Tower and the Mito City Museum.

10. Chiba City

40 minutes from Tokyo railway station / 5€ (one way)

Chiba day trips from Tokyo

If you’re looking for a day trip close to Tokyo, Chiba City is a good option. The city is filled with traditional things as well as amazing modern attractions too. The castle is a folk museum with beautiful shrines, visit the Chiba museum of Art and the Science Museum and the world’s longest suspended monorail which offers a 360-degree view of the city.

11. Katsunuma

2 hours from Tokyo railway station / 15€ (one way)

Katsunuma day trips from Tokyo

Katsunuma is one of the top three wine producers in the country. Enjoy many of their wineries nearby along with their delicious produces of fresh fruit and vegetables.

12. Matsumoto

3 hours from Tokyo railway station / 30€ (one way)

Matsumoto day trips from Tokyo

Matsumoto might be quite far for day trip from Tokyo, but worth the visit. It is a lively town with a lot of entertainment; a famous castle, mountain ranges ideal for cycling, filled with markets and many museums, including the Timepiece Museum.

13. Ashikaga

1 hour 55 minutes from Nijubashimae / 9-12€ (one way)

Ashikaga day trips from Tokyo

Small city with a lot of history packed into an attractive area with loads of mountain-top shrines of Buddhists, beautiful temples, classical Japanese theaters, art and architecture.

2 hour 15 minutes by train / 85-120€ (one way)

Kyoto day trips from Tokyo

Kyoto offers an incredible amount of attractions and it’s recommended to plan an itinerary in advance. 17 historic sites were inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List under the group designation Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto, so make sure to see them!

  • Kyoto day trips from Tokyo

15. Yamanashi

2 hour 45 minute from Tokyo railway station / 37-46€ (one way)

Yamanashi day trips from Tokyo

Yamanashi is a good day trip from Tokyo and allows travellers to experience the “inaka” (rural) Japan. This small destination is ideal for travellers that want to escape the crowds from Tokyo.

Unusual day trips from Tokyo for nature lovers

16. nokogiriyama.

2 hours 15 minutes from Tokyo railway station (by bus + train) / 15-17€ (one way)

Nokogiriyama day trips from Tokyo

Perfect destination for a hike filled with quarry drops, stunning views and many Buddhas. The famous “View to Hell” is a must, the views are incredible both to look at and enjoy.

17. Mount Takao

1 hour from Shinjuku railway station (by train) / 3€ (one way)

Nokogiriyama day trips from Tokyo

Good destination for hiking and home to a monkey park, Mt Takao is your perfect day for hiking. You can visit Yakuoin Temple from where you will have amazing panoramic views of Tokyo and Mt Fuji.

  • Mount Takao day trips from Tokyo

18. Okutama

1 hour 40 minutes from Shinjuku Station (by train) / 9-10€ (one way)

Okutama day trips from Tokyo

A beautiful natural area filled with mountains, rivers, waterfalls – Okutama is a perfect destination for a quick escape. The river is also a great place to go to where you can relax and enjoy a wide range of water sports.

1 hour 40 minutes from Tokyo railway station (by train) / 10€ (one way)

Hakone day trips from Tokyo

Hakone is one of the most popular destinations for day trips from Tokyo. Perfect place for nature lovers, it has three hiking trails as well as gondolas to volcanic valleys and small ships to cross the lake. There is a wide variety of museums in the area so you can take your pick.

  • Hakone day trips from Tokyo

20. Mount Fuji

4 hours from Tokyo Station (train + bus) / 22-33€ (one way) / 2 transfers

Mont Fuji day trips from Tokyo

Japan’s most climbed and depicted mountain, a perfect destination for travellers that enjoy climbing and exploring hiking trails. Climbing seasons are from July until September. Note that in any other period, trails and mountain huts are closed, because it can be dangerous for anyone to attempt climbing on their own.

  • Mount Fuji day trips from Tokyo

21. Misaki Town and Jogashima Island

1 hour 10 minutes from Shinagawa station / 10€ (one way)

Jogashima day trips from Tokyo

If you really want to get away from all the hassle, Jogashima Island is the place to go. It is quite rocky but it has some beautiful swimming spots and a hiking trail that takes you all the way around the island. You can also visit the small fishing town of Misaki which has its own fish market.

22. Nikko National Park

2 hours 5 minutes from Tokyo railway station / (34-50€ (one way)

Nikko National Park day trips from Tokyo

Nikko has a very interesting history and culture, beautiful nature and seasonal highlights. Also famous for hiking and its scenery. Don’t miss the Shinkyo bridge dating back to 1636 and Kanmangafuchi Abyss.

  • Nikko National Park day trips from Tokyo

23. Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route

Route Alpine de Tateyama Kurobe day trips from Tokyo

Incredible demonstration of the Northern Japanese Alps. The route stretches between Toyama City in Toyama and Omachi Town in Nagano. One of the highlights includes the views from Murodo, which has many hiking trails and the 186-meter-tall Kurobe Dam.

24. Suruga Bay

Suruga day trips from Tokyo

A place of contrasts where you can find Mount Fuji and other natural beauties, enjoy some strawberry picking and board a boat along the bay to get the views.

25. Todoroki Valley

Todoroki day trips from Tokyo

20 minute car journey from Tokyo, it’s a whole other world with bamboo trees, shrines and the sound of the river is a perfect place to escape in town.

26. Nagaroto and the Arakawa River

Arakawa River day trips from Tokyo

Delve into Nagaroto’s most stunning, unspoiled nature in all of Japan where you can enjoy a river boat tour through the rapid waters. If you are daring enough you can try rafting or paragliding here. There is also a hiking trail next to the river.

27. Ibaraki’s Ushiku Daibutsu

1 hour 10 minutes from Tokyo railway station / 37-50€ (one way)

Ushiku Daibutsu day trips from Tokyo

Take an unusual day trip to see the second largest Buddha in the world. Explore this area basically in the middle of nowhere and enjoy a picnic. You can also go inside the Buddha to practice calligraphy, see the 3000 golden Buddhas, the surrounding gardens and flower displays.

1 hour 15 minutes from Tokyo railway station / 28-40€ (one way)

Atami day trips from Tokyo

Seaside city nestled in the volcanic foothills of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, Atami offers great views of the Mt Fuji. You can visit the fake castle which actually displays real castles, visit the art museum and get the gondola to the sex museum (also called Treasure House).

29. Kawaguchiko

2 hours from Tokyo Station Yaesu Exit (by train) / 13-19€ (one way)

Kawaguchiko day trips from Tokyo

Here you can choose from views of moss phlox, clear lakes or lavender. The hold flower festivals every year, they have plenty of museums and nature spots from where you will have spectacular views of Fuji. Lake Kawaguchi is a must visit if you go to Kawaguchiko.

  • Lake kawaguchi day trips from Tokyo

30. Kusatsu Onsen Town

2 hours (highway bus) / 20€ (one way)

Kusatsu Onsen Town day trips from Tokyo

Up high in the mountains, Kusatsu is a resort town with amazing onsen experiences. They use their water from Mount Kusatsu-Shirane to cool it down as it is too hot to bathe in. You can also visit Mount Shirane to see the Crater Lake.

  • Onsen tours from Tokyo

31. Minakami

2 hours 15 minutes from Tokyo railway station / 35-50€ (one way)

Minakami day trips from Tokyo

Minakami is a mountainous hot spring resort town within easy reach of Tokyo. It’s famous for its baths, numerous ski resorts and its adventurous outdoor activities such as rafting and canoeing.

32. Lake Motosu

3 hours from Tokyo / 122-157€ one way / 1 transfer in Shinjuku

Lake Motosu day trips from Tokyo

Lake Motosu is the perfect destination for outdoor activities such as kayaking, canoeing, windsurfing and snorkelling.

33. Tama River in Ome

2 hours 30 minutes from Tokyo railway station / 8-12€ one way / 1 transfer to Mitake

Tama river day trips from Tokyo

The Tama River in Ome (western part of Tokyo), is a must-go place if you want to enjoy outdoor activities such as rafting, swimming or getaway with your family and friends.

34. Aokigahara

3hours 40 minutes from Tokyo Station Yaesu Exit / 18-24€ one way / 1 transfer in Kawaguchiko

Aokigahara day trips from Tokyo

Also known as the Sea of Trees, it has a reputation of being home to ghosts of the dead in Japanese mythology. It is an interesting place for hikers and trekkers.

35. Hachijojima

1 hour flight from Tokyo (prices vary seasonally) or take overnight ferry from Tokyo’s Takeshiba pier.

Hachijojima day trips from Tokyo

The ideal subtropical beach getaway with a lot of Japanese culture. You can explore the beaches, its jungle, waterfalls and hot springs.

36. Nippara Limestone Cave

2 hours 50 minutes from Tokyo / 44-60€ one way / 1 transfer in Ome to Oku-Tama

Nippara Limestone Cave day trips from Tokyo

As the largest cave in the Kanto region, walk 800 meter into the cave where you will see a white Bodhisattva statue, interesting shaped rocks and the limestone that is illuminated with colorful lights.

37. Izu Oshima

2 hours by ferry from Tokyo Takeshiba Port / 74-82€ (one way)

Izu Õ-shima day trips from Tokyo

The largest island in the Izu islands about 22 km from Tokyo. It offers beautiful volcanic beaches, much hotter weather, plenty of hiking routes, water sports and hot springs.

Day trips from Tokyo for Kids

38. disneyland.

30 minutes from Tokyo by train / 1-3€ one way / Direct to Maihama

Disneyland day trips from Tokyo

By far the most visited theme park in the world, after the one in California. This is where your favourite characters will come to life. The park is filled with people throughout all the year.

  • Disneyland Tokyo tickets

Learn how to book cheap Disneyland Tokyo tickets .

39. Disney Sea

Disney Sea day trips from Tokyo

A fantasy theme park in Tokyo Disney Resort that is unique in Japan. It is inspired by the myths and legends of the sea. Although suitable for all ages, DisneySea is designed specifically to appeal a more grown-up audience.

  • Tokyo Disney Sea tickets

40. Sanrio Puroland

1 hour 15 minutes from Tokyo / 4-8€ one way / 2 transfers

Sanrio Puroland day trips from Tokyo

A theme park entirely dedicated to Hello Kitty and the world of Sanrio. Although a bit small, it has all of the bright colors, flashing lights and overwhelming cuteness you’d expect.

  • Tokyo Sanrio Puroland tickets

41. One Piece Tower

15 minutes from metro line Hibiya to Kamiyacho / 1-2€ one way

One Piece Tower day trips from Tokyo

Have a fun and action-packed day learning about manga, perfect for adult and children entertainment. Experience this indoor theme park and play interactive games.

42. Legoland

Yurikamome Line, Odaiba-kaihinkoen Station, 2 minutes walk / Linkai Line, Tokyo Teleport Station, 5 minutes walk

Legoland day trips from Tokyo

The ultimate LEGO playground with 2 rides, 10 LEGO build & play zones, a 4D cinema and much more. Suitable for all ages, it’s located at Decks Tokyo Beach shopping mall at Odaiba.

  • LEGOLAND Discovery Center Tokyo tickets

Hope you enjoyed our selection of day trips from Tokyo . Do not hesitate to share your favorite ones in the comments below. Enjoy Japan 😉

Share it on Pinterest 🙂

Day Trips From Tokyo Pinterest

  • Meetings & Events
  • Select Language 简体中文 繁體中文(香港) 繁體中文(臺灣) India (English) Bahasa Indonesia 한국어 ภาษาไทย Tiếng Việt Singapore (English) Philippines (English) Malaysia (English) Australia/New Zealand (English) Français Deutsch Italiano Español United Kingdom (English) Nordic countries(English) Canada (English) Canada (Français) United States (English) Mexico (español) Português العربية Japan(日本語) Global (English)
  • India (English)
  • Bahasa Indonesia
  • Singapore (English)
  • Philippines (English)
  • Malaysia (English)
  • Australia/New Zealand (English)
  • United Kingdom (English)
  • Nordic countries(English)
  • Canada (English)
  • Canada (Français)
  • United States (English)
  • Mexico (español)
  • Global (English)
  • Fujiyoshida
  • Shimonoseki
  • Ishigaki Island
  • Miyako Island
  • Kerama Island
  • Tokyo Island
  • Koka & Shigaraki
  • Hida Takayama
  • Ginza, Nihonbashi
  • Beppu & Yufuin (Onsen)
  • Ginzan Onsen
  • Nagasaki Islands

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

  • Kumano Kodo
  • Shikoku Karst
  • Amami Oshima
  • Hachimantai
  • Omihachiman
  • Aizuwakamatsu

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

  • Diving in Japan
  • Skiing in Japan
  • Seasonal Flowers in Japan
  • Sustainable Outdoors
  • Off the Beaten Track in Japan
  • Scenic Spots
  • World Heritage
  • Home Stays & Farm Stays

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

  • Japanese Gardens
  • Japanese Crafts
  • Temple Stays
  • Heritage Stays
  • Festivals and Events
  • Theater in Japan
  • Japanese Tea Ceremony
  • Cultural Experiences in Japan
  • Culture in Japan

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

  • Local Cuisine Eastern Japan
  • Local Cuisine Western Japan
  • Local Street Food
  • Japan's Local Ekiben
  • Japanese Whisky
  • Vegetarian and Vegan Guide
  • Sushi in Japan Guide
  • Japanese Sake Breweries

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

  • Art Museums
  • Architecture
  • Performing Arts
  • Art Festivals
  • Japanese Anime and Comics
  • Japanese Ceramics
  • Local Crafts

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

  • Scenic Night Views
  • Natural Wonders
  • Theme Parks
  • Samurai & Ninja
  • Iconic Architecture

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

  • Wellness Travel in Japan
  • Japanese Ryokan Guide
  • A Guide to Stargazing in Japan
  • Relaxation in Japan
  • Forest Bathing (Shinrin-yoku)

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

  • Experiences in Japan
  • Enjoy my Japan
  • National Parks
  • Japan's Local Treasures
  • Japan Heritage
  • Snow Like No Other

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

  • Visa Information
  • Getting to Japan
  • Airport Access
  • COVID-19: Practical Information for Traveling to Japan
  • Anime Tourism
  • Countryside Stays
  • Accessible Tourism
  • Hokkaido Great Outdoors
  • Scenic World Heritage in Tohoku
  • Shikoku’s Nature and Traditions
  • Southern Kyushu by Rail

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

  • Traveling by Rail
  • How to Travel by Train and Bus
  • JR Rail Passes
  • Scenic Railways
  • Renting a Car
  • Sustainable Travel in Japan
  • Travel Brochures
  • Useful Apps
  • Online Reservation Sites
  • Eco-friendly Accommodation
  • Luxury Accommodations
  • Traveling With a Disability
  • Hands-free Travel
  • How to Book a Certified Tour Guide
  • Volunteer Guides

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

  • Japanese Manners
  • Spring in Japan
  • Summer in Japan
  • Autumn in Japan
  • Winter in Japan
  • Cherry Blossom Forecast
  • Autumn Leaves Forecast

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

  • Japan Visitor Hotline
  • Travel Insurance in Japan
  • Japan Safe Travel Information
  • Accessibility in Japan
  • Vegetarian Guide
  • Muslim Travelers
  • Safety Tips

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

  • Visa Info for Canadians
  • Tour Operators in Canada
  • JR Pass Retailers
  • Brochure Request

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

  • Inspiration
  • Travellers' Blog
  • Japan Through the Eyes of Canadian Journalists
  • Signature Journeys by Canadian Celebrities

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

  • MICE Newsletter
  • Notice of Campaigns
  • What's New

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

My Favorites

${v.desc | trunc(25)}

Planning a Trip to Japan?

Share your travel photos with us by hashtagging your images with #visitjapanjp

  • 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.

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

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.

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

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.

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

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.

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

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.

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

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.

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

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.

places to visit 1 hour 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.

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

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.

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

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.

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

  • Canada home

Please Choose Your Language

Browse the JNTO site in one of multiple languages

11 Best Day Trips from Tokyo

Nikko

Stefanie Akkerman moved from the Netherlands to Japan in 2013 with her Japanese husband and son. She jumped into the niche of Dutch tour guiding in Tokyo and Kamakura in 2015 and occasionally writes articles about all the great sights and activities Japan has to offer. She loves (Japanese) food, and to work that all off she goes diving, snorkeling, cycling, or hiking.

This post may contain some affiliate links. When you click through and make a purchase we may receive some commission, at no extra cost to you .

As the world’s largest metropolis, Tokyo has so much to do that you can easily fill up multiple days with all kinds of sightseeing and activities . But when you’re staying in Tokyo for more than just a few days, you may want to shake things up a bit and take a day trip to one of the beautiful destinations nearby. Making a short escape from the bustling city may be a refreshing addition to your Tokyo itinerary , and to give you some inspiration, here are the 11 best day trips from Tokyo!

How to get to Hakone

How to get to fukushima, how to get to kamakura, how to get to yokohama, how to get to kawaguchiko, how to get to kawagoe, how to get to chichibu, how to get to nikko, how to get to atami, how to get to kusatsu onsen, how to get to mito, mt. fuji day trip bus tour from tokyo, fukushima exclusion zone day tour from tokyo, kamakura private walking tour, nikko 1-day private walking tour, other articles you might like.

Hakone

One of the most popular day trips for Tokyo locals to really get out of the city and into nature is to make a day excursion to Hakone . This volcanically active town is situated in a mountainous region near the coast and offers wide vistas, plenty of greenery, and the opportunity to see an active volcano up close. Also, make sure to take a ride on the pirate ship on Lake Ashi to see Hakone Shrine and, if you are lucky, Mt. Fuji . To top off your perfect day out, you can soak in a healing natural hot spring in one of the many onsen hotels that offer day use before heading back to Tokyo.

Hop on the famous shinkansen departing from Tokyo Station and arrive in under an hour, or opt for the comfortable and affordable Odakyu Romance Car – a Limited Express Train operated by Odakyu Railway. This direct route between Shinjuku and Hakone Yumoto station takes only 85 minutes and requires no train transfers. Whether you prefer speed or comfort, both options offer stunning views of Japan’s beautiful countryside.

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

You can go on a day trip from Tokyo to the beautiful coastal area of Fukushima in the Tohoku area up north. You may think it’s a bit far from Tokyo to travel to the north just for a day, but you can actually get to Fukushima in 1.5 hours by Shinkansen. We also offer the exclusive Fukushima Exclusion Zone Day Trip Tour from Tokyo where you can hear the stories of what happened and what local people had to go through after the disaster in 2011 through interaction with locals. You will have the chance to see the beautiful Fukushima coastal area, including some of the places that were hit hardest and affected the most by the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake, Tsunami, and nuclear power plant disaster on a day trip from Tokyo. We hope joining this tour will give you a better understanding of everything that happened in 2011, natural disasters, and new insight and perspective on the Fukushima area as a whole.

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

From Tokyo, there are two options. Either take the Tohoku Shinkansen or take the JR Express Hitachi. It takes about 1.5 hours by Shinkansen and 2 to 3.5 hours by JR Express Hitachi to get to the Fukushima area.

BIg Buddha Kamakura

Kamakura , one of the old capital cities of Japan, is a town full of history and nature. There is always something blooming here, providing amazing photo opportunities with the beautiful historical temples and shrines , and because it is a seaside town, you can enjoy a walk (or a swim in the warmer season) at the beach . Would you prefer to discover Kamakura with a knowledgeable English-speaking guide? We organize a private tour to Kamakura, where you will learn everything about its illustrious history and see the most beautiful spots.

Rent a Kimono with the best in Kamakura:  Kimono Rental Wargo

From Tokyo, you have several options, both JR Yokosuka Line and the JR Shonan Shinjuku Line have a direction connection with Kamakura station. A one-way trip takes about an hour and costs approximately ¥950, but if you have a  Japan Rail Pass  you can take these trains for free.

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

Not many people who visit Tokyo think of going to the port city of Yokohama for a day trip, but they are missing out! This cosmopolitan city has a rich history and plenty of fun things to do, and it can be reached with one train in less than an hour from the city center of Tokyo. Visit the old western-style houses in Yamate , go to the cup noodle museum to make your own ramen noodles, eat your way through Chinatown , and enjoy the greenery in the large Sankeien Garden. If you like amusement parks , don’t skip the compact Yokohama Cosmoworld in Minato Mirai with plenty of fun attractions in a small area!

Getting to Yokohama from Tokyo is simple; there are no less than 6 direct train connections from Tokyo’s major stations. You may use your JR Pass on most trains to get to Yokohoma Station, which is located around 30-45 minutes from most major stations in Japan.

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

Kawaguchiko

Kawaguchiko

One of the best locations for incredible views of Mt. Fuji (weather permitting) is Kawaguchiko . You can admire one of Japan’s most famous symbols from various vantage points, such as the observation deck of the Kachikachi Ropeway, Oishi Park, and the Chureito Pagoda. Taking a boat trip on the lake is another great way to enjoy the environment, and if you want to get onto Mt. Fuji itself as far as you can get without actually climbing it, you should head to the 5th Station, where you can also buy many souvenirs. With our Mt. Fuji Day Trip Bus Tour , you are sure to get the best sights on a full day of sightseeing around Kawaguchiko! Generally, it’s a little bit tricky to see Mt. Fuji but no matter the weather, the guide will ensure to have a great time and create an unforgettable memory for you.

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

To reach Kawaguchiko Station by train, you’ll need to take the Fujikyu Railway Line. Starting from Shinjuku Station in Tokyo, take the JR Chuo Line to Otsuki Station and then transfer to the Fujikyu Line to reach Kawaguchiko Station. The total travel time for this journey is approximately two and a half hours. Don’t forget to take in the stunning views of the Japanese countryside along the way.

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

Do you want to experience a whiff of what Tokyo was like when it was still called Edo? Charming Kawagoe has a beautiful historic town center with small traditional shops, an original clock tower, and an interesting temple. Also, make sure to stop by Starbucks , which is surely one of the most photogenic locations of Starbucks in the world with its traditional architecture and a Japanese garden to enjoy your drink in. For great-looking photographs and a fun day just outside of Tokyo, Kawagoe is one of your best bets. If you want to be sure to catch all the best spots and hear interesting background stories, you should check out our Kawagoe tour!

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

You can reach Kawagoe from Tokyo in about 30-60 minutes. Connections to Kawagoe station are available from a number of other stations. International travelers are encouraged to invest in the Kawagoe Discount Pass. Using this pass, you can travel between Ikebukuro and Kawagoe for only ¥700. You can get your hands on a pass good for a single day at Ikebukuro Station.

You can go to the heart of Kawagoe on foot, by renting a bike, or by using the 500-yen Koedo loop bus.

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

You don’t have to go far for a mountainous rural region, only a little over one hour away from Tokyo’s Ikebukuro Station is Chichibu , a small town surrounded by gorgeous nature. In Chichibu, you can visit picturesque temples and shrines and the Hitsujiyama Park with colorful flowers in spring , and just outside of the town, there are several amazing hiking areas. After a long day of exploring the outdoors, there are many onsen where you can soak for total relaxation. While the most beautiful time to visit is between spring and autumn when nature is green or in foliage, if you do come in the middle of winter, you should not skip the impressive icicles in several locations around the area. Check out our Chichibu tour!

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

Since the unveiling of the Seibu Chichibu Line in 1969, Chichibu can be reached from Ikebukuro Station, in the northwestern part of Tokyo, within an hour and a half, making for an easy weekend or even day trip from Tokyo. Getting to Chichibu is especially easy when using the  Red Arrow Limited Express train . Discount tickets can be purchased at many stations for a round-trip option or a two-day pass option. These stations include Ikebukuro and Takadanobaba stations among others. The cost for a 2-day pass is ¥2,320 for adults and ¥1,180 for children. As soon as you get off the train you will be welcomed by the mountainous scenery of Chichibu!

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

Don’t say ‘kekko’ before you have seen Nikko! This famous slogan means that you can’t say you have seen enough before you have been to the impressive world heritage sites in Nikko . They have a good point, as Nikko boasts the incredible Toshogu shrine and the neighboring more quiet Taiyuin. Furthermore, there is plenty of diverse natural beauty to take in like the Kegon Falls, Lake Chuzenji , and the Senjogahara Moor; if you are a hiker, you will love Nikko and should probably make it a multi-day trip. If you want to start off your trip well, why not book our Nikko private tour? Get the chance to discover the best sightseeing spots around the town and hear more about the sight’s interesting history and cultural significance.

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

Explore Nikko worry-free and affordably with Tobu Railway’s Nikko All Area Pass. This pass includes a roundtrip from Asakusa station in Tokyo, unlimited bus and train rides in the Nikko area, and free admission to selected tours and attractions. Plus, get discounts at some tourist sites, restaurants, and souvenir shops. The pass costs just ¥4,600 in summer or ¥4,230 in winter and is valid for four consecutive days. Perfect for international tourists, it’s the most convenient option to experience Nikko. Get your pass today and start your adventure

When you are in possession of the Japan Rail Pass, you can also choose other options:

From Tokyo Station: Take the Tohoku Shinkansen to Utsunomiya Station, and then transfer to the Nikko line to finally reach Nikko Station. It takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes, and it offers you a comfortable, quiet ride on the bullet train.

From Shinjuku Station: A Limited Express train bound for Nikko is operated by JR-East from Shinjuku Station. You can enjoy a luxurious ride, but it is also the longest of the three options. Also, if you don’t want to change trains, you need to take the first train leaving Shinjuku at 7.31 am in order to get to Tobu Nikko Station. Otherwise, you will have to change trains at Shimo-Imaichi Station.

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

Surprisingly close to Tokyo, you can enjoy some of the region’s best onsen and beaches in the coast side town of Atami . If you come in the summer, there are some awesome beaches to cool off in the comfortable ocean water, and if you come during the cooler months, the onsen with ocean views is very comforting. As this is a popular resort area for locals, there are many other tourist attractions in Atami, like the Kiunkaku traditional villa, the Akao Herb and Rose Garden, and the Atami Ropeway for amazing views. And at night, there is a romantic light show at Atami Sun Beach to enjoy.

Atami is fairly close to Tokyo, and it only takes a little over an hour to get there from the city center. Take the Tokaido Shinkansen from Tokyo Station down to Atami Station. From there you can take a bus or taxi, or even walk to wherever you are planning on checking out first.

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

Kusatsu Onsen

Kusatsu Onsen

If you are into hot spring resorts and gorgeous traditional small mountain towns, Kusatsu Onsen is a must-do destination when you are in Tokyo. When you arrive, you are greeted by the famous sight of Yubatake where the very hot water is cooled to more agreeable temperatures for the bathers. You can enjoy the public foot baths and a show of ‘yumomi, where they cool the water with a traditional dance, and the Sainokawara Park provides visitors with otherworldly steamy views. And of course, you should take some time to soak in one of the many onsen hotels’ baths, which are full of minerals with all kinds of healing properties. This is one of the most refreshing day trips from Tokyo for sure!

From either Tokyo Station or Shinjuku Station, getting to Kusatsu Onsen is fairly easy making  Kusatsu Onsen one of the best onsen towns near Tokyo . Taking the Kusatsu Onsen bus from either station costs around ¥3,000 to ¥4,000 and it will take you around 3 hours to arrive at this onsen hotspot. From Karuizawa station, you can also take the local bus operated by Kusatsu Kotsu. This bus costs about ¥2,000 and takes a little over an hour to arrive. 

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

While Mito may not be featured on most tourists’ itineraries, it is well worth a visit, especially if you happen to come during February or March when the annual Plum Blossom Festival is held in Mito’s Kairakuen Garden . But the rest of the year this garden is also beautiful, and if you want to take a deep dive into Japanese history and learn more about powerful samurai families from the past, you should join our interesting Mito Walking Tour for some good stories that not many tourists hear about.

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

Local trains departing from Tokyo, Ueno, or Shinagawa stations take around two hours and cost 2310 yen one way to get to Mito. For a day excursion to Mito, the Seishun 18 Kippu is a viable option. From Ueno Station, you can take two direct trains per hour; direct trains also occasionally depart from Shinagawa and Tokyo.

As you can see, there is plenty to see and do within easy traveling distance of central Tokyo if you are looking for something different to add to your Tokyo city experience. Even if you are only staying around the Tokyo area during your trip, you can fully enjoy Japan’s more traditional and natural side as well!

Day Trip Tours from Tokyo

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

Experience the breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji by visiting the highlights of the area on our guided sightseeing bus tour! Departing from Shinjuku in central Tokyo, you can travel comfortably to all of the best spots in the area by bus.

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

Experience the Fukushima coastal area on our day trip Fukushima Exclusion Zone Tour from Tokyo! Explore towns within 20km of the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant, witness the impact of the disaster, and reflect on the resilience of the local community. Join us for a thought-provoking journey and contribute to the region’s revival.

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

On this Kamakura Private Walking Tour, you will explore the must-see spots in the Kamakura area which is only an hour away from Tokyo. Discover the historical sites including shrines and temples, and stroll in the shopping street Komachi Dori!

Toshogu Shrine Nikko

Nikko 1-Day Private Walking Tour allows you to explore the historical attractions and natural beauty of the area. The itinerary includes Lake Chuzenji, Kegon Waterfall, and Toshogu Shrine and you can travel seamlessly with a private guide while learning the interesting history of the area!

Follow us on  Instagram ,  Facebook ,  Twitter , and  TikTok  for more travel inspiration. Or tag us to get featured!

Happy traveling!

Stay informed of the best travel tips to Japan, the most exciting things to do and see, and the top experiences to have with the Japan Wonder Travel Newsletter. Once every two weeks we will introduce you to our latest content.

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

  • Popular destinations
  • Hidden places in Japan
  • Tours and workshop
  • Food and drink in Japan
  • Itinerary in Japan
  • Places to visit in Tokyo
  • Food and drink in Tokyo
  • Seasonal events
  • Tours & workshops
  • Tokyo This Week
  • Day trip from Tokyo
  • Itinerary in Tokyo
  • Places to visit in Kyoto
  • Food and drink in Kyoto
  • Itinerary in Kyoto
  • Day trip from Kyoto
  • Travel tips
  • Accommodation
  • Cultural tips
  • Transportation
  • Tokyo Tours
  • Kyoto Tours
  • Kimono Rental
  • Fukushima Tours
  • Mount Fuji Tours
  • Tour Package
  • Media Kit(English/日本語)
  • Travel magazine

The best one-day trips from Tokyo: From skyscrapers to scenic views

(0 - 12 years old)

Book a private experience

November 3, 2023

People walking in a forest, two ladies viewing Yokohama

Hello! I'm Noriko. Having spent over ten years in Tokyo, I've discovered there's so much more to the city than its famous skyline. Beyond the bustling streets are serene landscapes and hidden towns that I've been fortunate to explore. While there are many Tokyo tours , what sets City Unscripted apart is our focus on local experiences.

At City Unscripted, we're all about genuine local experiences. When you're with us, expect to see a side of your chosen city that isn't always on postcards.

We'll introduce you to spots we locals treasure, share stories that don’t make the usual guidebooks, and recommend places to eat that have won our hearts. Our goal is to make your visit meaningful by offering a deeper connection to our city.

So, if you're keen to see what's beyond Japan's capital city, join me as we look at some unforgettable day trips around Tokyo . Let's dive in!

Book private experiences in Tokyo

When in Osaka make sure to try “kushikatsu”!

Tokyo as a travel hub

Essential tips for the perfect day trip, iconic day trips from tokyo, author's day trip recommendations.

Tokyo station at night

Tokyo Station and Shinjuku Station

Tokyo Station is super cool. It's got this mix of old brick buildings and new sleek designs. If you're into shopping, there's everything from neat traditional souvenirs to the latest trendy clothing.

Overall, Tokyo Station is like a mini adventure with a splash of Japan's fantastic culture. City Unscripted's guides are experts in navigating the station, making sure your visit is smooth and hassle-free.

Shinjuku Station is enormous! As one of the world's busiest stations, it can be overwhelming. But once you get the hang of it, Shinjuku becomes the epicenter for many Tokyo day trips. One of my favorite things about Shinjuku is its adaptability; whether planning a day trip in the peak tourist season or the quieter off-season, it offers connections to various destinations.

With City Unscripted's knowledgeable guides, you'll master the intricacies of Shinjuku Station and unlock its potential as a gateway to unforgettable Tokyo adventures.

Travelers on a train in Japan

Transportation essentials

Navigating Tokyo and its surroundings often brings to mind the sleek and swift Shinkansen bullet train. It's one of my top picks when I'm looking to dash out of central Tokyo to explore farther reaches. The Shinkansen isn't just about speed; as it zips through the countryside, you're treated to stunning scenery that changes every season.

But Tokyo's transport gems don't end there. The JR Shonan Shinjuku Line is a lifesaver for day trips. Linking some of the biggest city hubs, it's my go-to when I want a seamless journey without the hustle of changing trains.

Then there's the efficient highway bus services. If you're planning multiple trips from Tokyo, consider these buses; they are wallet-friendly, and some even offer unlimited rides!

On your next trip, whether you're darting from the city center or leisurely exploring the outskirts, Japan's transportation options promise to elevate your journey.

If you're ever unsure of which to choose, City Unscripted's local guides can help you find the best option for your adventure.

Couple traveling by train to visit Tokyo

Exploring Tokyo's efficient transport

If you're eager to maximize your time in Tokyo, even when your schedule is tight, you're in luck. Tokyo boasts an incredibly efficient transportation system that not only saves you time but also enables you to embark on exciting day trips to destinations less than an hour away.

For instance, a day trip to Kamakura, a charming coastal town adorned with traditional buildings and historic temples, is a delightful option that's just a short train ride from Tokyo. Alternatively, you might find yourself drawn to Yokohama, known for its captivating harbor and bustling Chinatown, a mere stone's throw away from the city center.

My personal favorite quick escape is to Nikko, where the Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site, awaits your exploration, and it's just a quick train journey from Tokyo. The best part? These destinations are so easily accessible that you can complete a round trip and still have ample time to explore the bustling metropolis of Tokyo!

While solo adventures are great, taking your day trips to the next level is possible when you partner with City Unscripted. It's akin to having a local friend accompany you on your Tokyo excursions.

The key difference? City Unscripted tailors your adventure to your preferences, enabling you to delve deep into local hotspots, savor delightful eateries, and uncover those hidden gems known only to insiders. With our guides, it's not merely about sightseeing; it's about creating lasting stories and cherished memories, all while making the most of your day trips.

What makes a day trip special

Do you know what's truly awesome about day trips from Tokyo? It's the unique blend of venturing into the unknown for a taste of adventure and then, as evening sets in, returning to the vibrant city lights of Tokyo. In just one day, you get the best of both worlds! However, planning a day trip and navigating a new city may be daunting; that's why I recommend investing in a guided tour for your day trips from Tokyo.

Guided tours from companies such as City Unscripted truly elevate your adventure. Their guided tours offer a remarkably personal touch that sets them apart.

But what sets these tours apart, you might ask? Imagine being guided by a local friend who leads you through their cherished secret spots, deliberately avoiding the typical tourist destinations.

City Unscripted's guides are wholeheartedly committed to revealing those hidden gems they've stumbled upon and grown to cherish – the kinds of places that locals eagerly discuss, where you might stumble upon your next favorite meal or a captivating piece of local culture. This embodies the essence of City Unscripted: it's not just about visiting locations; it's about completely immersing yourself in them.

The traditional charms vs. the modern allure

Kawagoe festival and Tokyo City at night

Japan truly is a wonder, and it's all about how it balances tradition with modernity.

For example, Kawagoe? It's like you're walking through history. This place has maintained its Edo-period charm, and every nook seems to whisper tales from the past. It's Japanese culture at its purest. Then, when you're ready for a change of scenery, Yokohama awaits. It's the epitome of modern Japan. Tall buildings, buzzing streets, and a hint of the future everywhere you look.

If you're thinking of taking these trips from Tokyo, consider going with City Unscripted. Imagine exploring with someone who lives there and knows the history and hidden gems. Our guided tours are curated based on what you're looking to experience.

So, we've got you covered, whether diving deep into the Edo period or soaking in the present day's hustle and bustle. It's like wandering with a knowledgeable friend!

People embarking on a guided tour with a local guide

Tokyo day trips transformed with City Unscripted

When I reflect on what makes a tour genuinely unforgettable, it's the depth and authenticity of the experience. With City Unscripted, touring Japan is not just about hopping between landmarks. It's more like discovering the country with every step. It's like a day trip enriched by a knowledgeable friend.

I've been guiding tours for years, but what stands out about City Unscripted is how personalized each trip feels. It's far from a one-size-fits-all kind of deal. Instead, think of it as a tailor-made journey crafted just for you! 

That's the magic of choosing us as your trusted tour operator. Some tours might have you zipping from point A to B, but with City Unscripted, it's more of a shared adventure.

Mt Fuji from on of the Fuji Five Lakes

Mt. Fuji and the Five Lakes

Every time I set foot near Mount Fuji and the Fuji Five Lakes, a burst of joy envelops me. I mean, have you ever witnessed such splendor? When you visit the Fuji Five Lakes, you'll witness Mt. Fuji's majestic presence, standing tall, with the lakes reflecting its grandeur – it's truly a sight to behold!

Mount Fuji, a symbol of Japan's natural beauty and culture, soars to an impressive height of 3,776 meters, making it Japan's highest peak. Situated just 100 kilometers southwest of Tokyo, this UNESCO World Heritage Site has long been a wellspring of inspiration in Japanese art, literature, and poetry. On clear days, it even graces the skyline of Tokyo, creating an air of anticipation for your day trip.

Each of the lakes possesses its own unique charm, whether it beckons you with a tranquil boat ride or offers a peaceful nook, perfect for a little timeout. However, it's more than just the scenery that captivates me when showing friends around. I come alive sharing little-known tales, intriguing tidbits, and unveiling those hidden gems that enrich the day. But I do have to recommend saving Mount Fuji for a weekend trip as the area has so much to explore.

The beauty of a City Unscripted tour to these attractions lies in their guides' commitment to making your day trips from Tokyo or weekend getaways genuinely exceptional.

Whether you aspire to capture breathtaking views of Mount Fuji from the Fuji Five Lakes with your camera, crave the adventure of hiking trails, or seek the thrill of a cable car ride, we've got you covered. With our guided tours, we tailor the experience to your interests, ensuring that your visit isn't just another trip but an unforgettable adventure curated just for you.

Nikko’s spiritual tranquility

Torii gate in Nikko

Nikko, just a quick trip from Tokyo, is one of those spots that never ceases to amaze. You've got the Toshogu Shrine – and guess what? It’s not just any shrine.

It's a UNESCO World Heritage site dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the influential founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate that left a mark on Japan for over 250 years.

And if nature's more your vibe, the Nikko National Park won't disappoint. Between the shimmering Lake Chuzenji and the towering Kegon Falls, it's a scenery lover's dream.

Visiting Nikko is always a treat, but here's the thing: a City Unscripted guide adds that extra layer to the experience. It’s not about hopping from one site to the next. We focus on tailoring the journey, making it personal and unique to your interests. With City Unscripted, the trip is more of a personalized exploration.

Mount Fuji from Lake Ashi

Hakone’s natural spa

Alright, let me spill the beans about one of my absolute favorite getaways from Tokyo: Hakone! Nestled among Japan's striking mountains, this hot spring town is a gem. It's the ideal spot for rejuvenating in the warm embrace of natural hot springs.

And while you're in Hakone, you've got to check out Lake Ashi. Trust me, on a good day, the views of Mount Fuji are simply jaw-dropping. Oh, and pop by the Hakone Open-Air Museum for a dose of art in the great outdoors. It's such a unique blend of nature and creativity.

Now, picture this: instead of navigating Hakone with just a map, you're exploring with a buddy who knows the town inside out. That's the experience you get with City Unscripted. Rather than a typical Tokyo visit, it feels like your friend is showing you their beloved spots in Hakone. From hidden corners to the famous Hakone Shrine, the day becomes a shared adventure filled with memories.

Yokohama city from the harbor

Yokohama’s coastal charm

You know, every time I set foot in Yokohama, it feels refreshing! Situated by the coastline, Yokohama offers a captivating mix of its storied past and vibrant present.

Just imagine walking by the waterfront, feeling the sea breeze on your face, admiring the bay, and spotting the famous Yokohama Bay Bridge. It's no wonder so many opt for a day trip from Tokyo to this gem! 

And hey, if you're a foodie like me, the Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum and Cup Noodles Museum near Yokohama station are a must-visit. It's not just about noodles; it's an adventure into the realm of ramen.

When I guide travelers around, especially with City Unscripted, the journey becomes even more memorable. It's not a typical guided tour. We connect you to Yokohama's essence, sharing local tales, introducing you to spots loved by residents, and revealing little treasures you may miss when visiting alone. There's just something special about exploring Yokohama in such an authentic way.

Kawagoe's Little Edo

Kawagoe's traditional wooden buildings

So, let me tell you about this captivating place called Kawagoe. It's genuinely like being transported right into the Edo era. Walking amidst the Kurazukuri buildings, you can almost feel the history seeping through the walls.

And oh, while you're there, don't miss out on the gentle sounds from the Toki no Kane bell tower. It adds to the whole atmosphere in such a charming way! Oh, and before I forget, you must try the sweet potato treats – trust me, this local specialty is delightful.

Introducing people to Kawagoe, especially with City Unscripted, is an immersive journey filled with stories, hidden gems, and a genuine connection to the culture. It's more than just sightseeing; it's about truly experiencing the place. City Unscripted is all about creating that deep connection and cultural immersion.

Day trips from Tokyo to Chiba City

Chiba and Tokyo Disneyland magic

So many people often ask me about my favorite spots outside the typical City Unscripted routes. And Chiba? It tops the list! Chiba City serves this fantastic mix of cool modern spots and natural beauty. You've got places like the Boso-no-Mura open-air museum - it's like stepping into a time capsule of traditional Japanese life - and then the serene vibes of Inage Seaside Park.

You can't forget about Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea just next door! What's cool about these? Tokyo Disneyland isn’t just your average amusement park. It has these exclusive rides and shows you won’t find anywhere else.

And Tokyo DisneySea? It's the world's only "sea" themed Disney park. Talk about unique! If you're thinking of a day trip that gives you a sprinkle of magic alongside Tokyo's rich history, this is it. The whole Chiba area just beautifully mixes the timeless with the fantastical.

Hitachi Seaside Park with many flowers

Hitachi Seaside Park's natural beauty

Do you know what always lifts my spirits? Besides guiding City Unscripted tours and making new friends, of course. A day at Hitachi Seaside Park. Seriously, this place is like an artist's palette but with flowers.

Picture this: oceans of blue nemophila in spring, cherry blossoms adding their soft pink touch, and then the entire park turning fiery with red kochias come autumn. It's nature's masterpiece, and it always leaves me a little amazed.

Thinking of going? Here's the plan: Start from Ueno Station and take the direct Hitachi-Tokiwa line. Roughly 90 minutes later, you're at Katsuta Station. A quick bus hop, and voilà, you're at the park's entrance! When you're there, wander over to the Pleasure Garden area, it's filled with fun rides and activities.

Ashikaga Flower Park

Ashikaga Flower Park - a blooming marvel

Every time I think of a place that brings an instant smile to my face, Ashikaga Flower Park in Tochigi Prefecture pops into my mind. Imagine walking under trellises draped with wisteria blossoms that are over 150 years old!

These blooms create a magical display from late April to mid-May, with canopies bursting in shades of pink, blue, and white. But it's not just spring; the park is a year-round treat. Roses in summer, colorful leaves in autumn, and dazzling illuminations in winter – it’s like Mother Nature's way of throwing a year-long party!

If you’re wondering how to get there, it's super easy. Just hop on the Ryomo Line from Tokyo and get off at Ashikaga Flower Park Station. The park's right around the corner, perfect for a day trip.

Want a little tip? Time your visit to coincide with their themed events. You'll get to experience each season’s unique floral showcase. Oh, and if you can, swing by on a weekday – way fewer crowds.

While I usually guide folks around Tokyo's buzzing streets with City Unscripted, I always love sharing about this vibrant park. It's just too splendid to keep to myself!

Osaka Castle with cherry blossom trees

Can I do a day trip from Tokyo to Osaka?

Riding the bullet train from Tokyo to Osaka always amazes me. Within hours, I transition from the buzzing energy of Tokyo's skyscrapers to the unique vibe of Osaka.

Now, you might be pondering: Is a day trip possible? Technically, yes, it's doable. However, let me give you a bit of friendly advice: while you can touch down in Osaka and get a taste of its charm, you'll barely scratch the surface in a single day.

Osaka, with its vibrant streets of Dotonbori and irresistible takoyaki, deserves more than a fleeting visit. At City Unscripted, our local guides are brilliant at helping travelers dive deep into a city's essence. But even we believe trying to pack Osaka into one day is quite the stretch.

If you're considering it, come prepared for a whirlwind experience. Yet, if you can spare more time, give Osaka the attention it deserves. It's a city worth savoring, not rushing!

Two women wearing kimono's in Kawagoe

Can I do a day trip from Tokyo to Kyoto?

Jumping on that train from Tokyo to Kyoto is like traveling through time. In just a couple of hours, the modern hustle of Tokyo fades into Kyoto's historical tapestry.

This city is a treasure trove of UNESCO World Heritage sites - think Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion) and the mesmerizing bamboo groves of Arashiyama. 

And while you're at it, the tranquil charm of the Kamo River is something you shouldn't miss, especially during the golden hour.

Now, the big question: a day trip? Technically, it's possible. But imagine trying to cram all the episodes of your favorite series into one evening – sounds rushed, right? That's what a day in Kyoto feels like.

At City Unscripted, we believe in soaking up the essence of a place, and our local guides feel Kyoto needs more than just a dash through. If Kyoto's on your list, consider stretching that day trip into a little longer stay. Trust me, it's an adventure worth savoring!

Ready to discover Japan's hidden gems and experience the authentic side of each destination? Dive deep into the heart of Tokyo and beyond with City Unscripted. Our local hosts are eager to share their favorite spots, stories, and secrets with you.

Don't just visit; truly connect and live in the moment. Book a Tokyo tour with us at City Unscripted today and embark on a journey like no other. Let's make your Japanese adventure unforgettable together!

Hello, curious traveler! Embark on a unique experience with Hello, curious traveler! Embark on a unique experience with City Unscripted Tokyo. Our personalized, private tours, led by local hosts, make you feel like you’re exploring the city with a knowledgeable friend. We’ll take you to well-known sights and reveal Tokyo’s hidden gems, unveiling stories typically missed by traditional tours. So unscript your journey, and see Tokyo through the eyes of our local hosts!

City Unscripted experience in Tokyo

Top private experiences in Tokyo

Big Ben to Tower Bridge

Tokyo in pink: discover the magic of the cherry blossom season

Big Ben to Tower Bridge

Your perfect half-day in Tokyo

Big Ben to Tower Bridge

Eat like a true Tokyoite

Big Ben to Tower Bridge

Epic Tokyo: A full-day tailored exploration

Big Ben to Tower Bridge

Get a head start: Kickstart your trip to Tokyo

Big Ben to Tower Bridge

On a roll in Tokyo! The sushi experience

We’ll pair you with the perfect host

There is no better way to see a city than with a friend who lives there. This is why we carefully match guests with their perfect host based on interested, personality and type of experience so they can discover a city beyond the tourist trail.

Find your perfect host and experience using our nifty little tool

Make your inbox happy with our travel tips and inspiration as well as exclusive offers and first access to new services.

You may also like

The best time to visit Tokyo and Kyoto: Discover the ideal season from a local

The best time to visit Tokyo and Kyoto: Discover the ideal season from a local

Best time of year to visit Tokyo: Uncover the ideal season for your trip

Best time of year to visit Tokyo: Uncover the ideal season for your trip

What is the best time to visit Tokyo? Your seasonal guide to Japan's capital

What is the best time to visit Tokyo? Your seasonal guide to Japan's capital

When is the best time to visit Tokyo, Japan? A detailed season-by-season breakdown

When is the best time to visit Tokyo, Japan? A detailed season-by-season breakdown

Best time to visit Tokyo: Unlocking the city's year-round allure

Best time to visit Tokyo: Unlocking the city's year-round allure

Best time of year to visit Tokyo: The ultimate guide to the city's seasons

Best time of year to visit Tokyo: The ultimate guide to the city's seasons

Explore our cities in japan.

City Unscripted host Fukuoka

Popular destinations

CityUnscripted host Tokyo

San Francisco

CityUnscripted host London

Mexico City

CityUnscripted host Munich

Read more Tokyo articles

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

A Fun Couple_Travel Blog_Logo

10 BEST DAY TRIPS FROM TOKYO [JAPAN GUIDE]

' src=

WHAT ARE THE BEST DAY TRIPS FROM TOKYO? HOW FAR TO SEE MT. FUJI FROM TOKYO?

Even if Tokyo offers an almost infinite number of things to see and do, you likely want to see something other than the capital during your stay in Japan.

In Japan, there is so much to see, and many sights can be visited on a day trip from Tokyo ! From contrasting features of modern cities to peaceful natural landscapes you will easily be amazed by our recommended 10 best day trips from Tokyo.

Best things to do at Lake Kawaguchi

GUIDE TO THE BEST DAY TRIPS FROM TOKYO

1. nikkô, the spiritual city of japan.

Best day trip from Tokyo

Nikko is a small town 2 hours north of Tokyo.

Located in the mountains, you will find peace and serenity there. This is one of the most famous day trips from Tokyo.

The city’s national park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to truly magnificent and unique temples and shrines.

Best day trips from Tokyo: Nikko

The walk in the middle of century-old cedars several tens of meters high is very spiritual. Personally we love Nikko !

There are also other places to visit in the city like the Kegon waterfalls which are absolutely amazing! However, you will need a 2nd day for that. If you want to spend only one day there, choose the national park and the surrounding area only.

READ: 18 BEAUTIFUL THINGS TO SEE IN NIKKO

How to get to Nikko from Tokyo?

Best day trips from Tokyo: Nikko

Getting to Nikko by car :

If you have a car in Japan, then it’s a no-brainer! Getting there from Tokyo is relatively easy. You can get there in a little over 2 hours!

As Nikko is quite spread with Nikko National Park on one side and Kegon Waterfalls on the other side, having a car will make your visit more efficient.

To rent a car, we always use  Nippon Rent-a-Car  in Japan! Always reliable, competitive rates, English service! Search no longer!

Getting to Nikko by train:

The train is one of the best way to get to Nikko (from Tokyo). We recommend the Tobu Skytree line (rapid section). The journey takes about 2 hours.

If you travel to Japan, make sure to buy your JR PASS >>  BEST PRICE HERE  <<

Join a tour group or take a private driver (ideal for a group of people):

Join a 1 day bus tour which will take you to the main sights of Nikko:  BOOK HERE

Get your own private tour:  BOOK HERE

2. Lake Kawaguchi around Mount Fuji, one of the best day trips from Tokyo!

Best things to do at Lake Kawaguchi

Just hearing about Mount Fuji, gives us goosebumps! This mountain is so legendary! And Yes, you can visit places around Mount Fuji on a day trip from Tokyo!

For that, we recommend Lake Kawaguchi ! A truly beautiful place in Japan, not to be missed. From there, you can get the best views of Mount Fuji!

It is also there that you can see the Chureito pagoda, with the mountain in the background! One of the most famous photographs of Japan!

Best day trip from Tokyo: lake kawaguchi

Although many people will only visit Kawaguchiko during a day trip to see the main highlights,  we recommend 2 full days  to fully discover the area and to take your time to appreciate the views of Mount Fuji.

Lake Kawaguchi is one of our favorite day trips from Tokyo!

READ: 15 BEST THINGS TO SEE IN LAKE KAWAGUCHI & 10 BEST PLACES TO SEE MOUNT FUJI

How to get to Lake Kawaguchi from Tokyo?

Iyashi no Sato traditional village

Reach Kawaguchi by train

With the JR lines: From  Shinjuku  change trains at Otsuki station all the way to Kawaguchi. However, we do do recommend this option, as the train from Otsuki is very crowded.

Reach Kawaguchi by bus

Taking the bus from Tokyo is the cheapest and most practical option in our opinion. Not only can you book in advance on the  Highway Bus website , but the bus is also direct! Just seat down and relax until you reach Kawaguchi.

Getting to Kawaguchi by car

If you have a car, or decided to rent a car during your visit of Japan, then you can easily get to Kawugachi. The journey from Tokyo takes about 1h30min (depending on traffic).

Private Transfer

If you are a group of people traveling to Japan, it makes sense to hire a private transfer from Tokyo. This is a 1-day trip with a guide. The tour will take you around Kawaguchi and Hakone. This is the most efficient way if you only have 1 day to see Mt. Fuji.  BOOK HERE

Join a tour group

Another efficient way to visit Lake Kawaguchi and Mt. Fuji’s best viewpoint is by joining a tour group by bus. We highly recommend this tour  to see the best part of Mt. Fuji.

3. Hakone, another amazing spot to see Mount Fuji

Hakone

Famous for it’s onsen, Hakone is one of the easiest and most convenient day trips from Tokyo . Its popularity is partly due to the fact that it is faster to reach than Kawaguchi mentioned above.

If you’re lucky enough to visit at a time when there is not cloud to cover Mount Fuji, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views from many vantage points around Hakone.

Once in Hakone , navigating the area is a very simple loop with clear signage. It’s fun to see all the sights by bus, cable car, Lake Ashi pirate ship cruise etc..

Around Lake Ashinoko, make sure to visit the stunning Hakone Shrine and the Hakone Checkpoint!

READ: 15 BEST THINGS TO SEE IN HAKONE

How to get to Hakone from Tokyo?

Best day trip from Tokyo. Hakone Shrine

Reach Hakone by train

From Tokyo station take the Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen to Odawara. From Odawara you will need to take a bus or the local train to reach Hakone. The journey takes a bit more than 1.5h. Just make sure to purchase your JR Pass when traveling to Japan

Getting to Hakone by car

If you have a car, or decided to rent a car during your visit of Japan, then you can easily get to Hakone. The journey from Tokyo takes about 1h45min (depending on traffic).

What many people visiting Hakone do, is that they take the train to Odawara, and from there rent a car to travel through Hakone. Having a car in Hakone is definitely more convenient.

Join a tour from Tokyo

To make it easy, you can also join a tour from Tokyo. This option is all inclusive and most convenient. CHECK IT OUT HERE

Visit Odawara

If you have sufficient time, we recommend making a stop at Odawara to visit the beautiful castle! You can combine your visit with a delicious Kaiseki dinner together with a Geisha.

>> MORE INFO HERE

4. Yokohama, just under 30 min from Tokyo!

Chinatown in Yokohama

Yokohama is only 30 minutes by train from Tokyo.

It is home to the largest Chinatown in the world! This is the main attraction in Yokohama.

China Town in Yokohama was founded in 1860 by the first immigrants from China.  Today it is considered the largest Chinatown in the world with more than 600 stores and thousands of visitors a day!

However, there is a lot of other things to see in Yokohama such as the Red Brick Warehouse, Minato Mirai district, the  Gundam  Factory, The cup Noodle Museum or even the Ramen Museum!

We love this place, which is one of the best and easiest day trips from Tokyo!

READ: ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW TO VISIT YOKOHAMA IN JAPAN

How to get to Yokohama from Tokyo?

Best places to stay in Yokohama

From Yokohama to Tokyo and back, there is a JR train line running back and forth every few minutes throughout the day.

From Tokyo Ueno Station, Tokyo Central Station or Shinagawa Station, you can take the JR Tokaio train line to Yokohama Central Station. It is the fastest and easiest way to get there.

You can also take the Express or Limited Express train on the Toyoko Line from Ikebukuro or Shinjuku Stations. The journey takes about 20-25 minutes.

5. Karuizawa, one of our favorite places to visit in Japan!

Best day trip from Tokyo: Karuizawa

Karuizawa is one of the best places to visit in Japan! During our road trip through  Japan , our visit of Karuizawa was one of the  most memorable places we visited!

Karuizawa is the summer retreat of many Tokyoites , who have a second home on the beautiful plateau there, situated at 1,000 meters above sea level in the Nagano prefecture.

Best day trip from Tokyo: Karuizawa

The fame of Karuizawa began at the beginning of the Meiji era (1868-1912), when the legendary  Nakasendo  road was built- one of the legendary routes from Tokyo to Kyoto.

In Karuizawa you will discover the magnificent Japanese Nature, with waterfalls, mountains and volcanoes, gorgeous forest, bird parks, onsen and lot more which we invite you to discover in this post !

READ: 20 BEST THINGS TO SEE IN KARUIZAWA

How to get to Karuizawa from Tokyo?

Best day trip from Tokyo: Karuizawa

Getting to Karuizawa by car:

If you have a car in Japan, then it’s easy! You can get there in a little over 2 hours from Tokyo!

As Karuizawa is quite spread, it will make the whole visit much more efficient!

Getting to Karuizawa by train:

The city of Karuizawa is very easy to access with its own Shinkansen station: it is only about 1h15 from Tokyo station.

6. Kamakura, one of the most historical places of Japan

Best day trip from Tokyo: Kamakura

For many, Kamakura is a must-see in Japan!

In Kamakura you will find an impressive number of temples and shrines, giving the city an undeniable historical charm.

It is in Kamakura that you will find the famous bronze seated Buddha of 13 meters (Kotoku-in temple) . There are other temples which are also worth the trip! In particular the Hase Dera or the Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gu.

The city is surrounded by hills and ends by the sea. A very calm atmosphere can be felt from the place. Some high viewpoints are truly magnificent.

Best day trip from Tokyo: Kamakura

Getting to Kamakura by train:

– From Tokyo or Shinagawa station: take the JR Yokosuka line, for a journey of around 50 to 60 minutes

– From Ikebukuro, Shinjuku or Shibuya station: take the JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line to Yokohama and change to the JR Yokosuka Line. Count approximately 1h

– From Yokohama: take the JR Yokosuka line for about 30 minutes

Go to Kamakura by car

You can easily reach Kamakura by car from Tokyo, although it would take a little longer than the train. Count about 1.5hours to get there. The distance is nearly 60 kilometers.

BOOK: You can also book a private guided tour with a transfer from Tokyo here .

7. Enoshima, Japan’s surf town, another awesome day trip from Tokyo!

Best day trips from Japan_Enoshima

It is actually possible to combine Kamakura and Enoshima in the same day . Although a bit rush, many tourists choose to see both places during a day trip from Tokyo.

However, Enoshima alone deserves a great afternoon that lasts until sunset. Temples, a beachfront, caves, an observation tower, these are the things that await you in Enoshima.

From Enoshima you can even see Mount Fuji, with a bit of luck!

Best day trips from Japan_Enoshima

The beach in Enoshima attracts many surfers from all around the world! So if like us you are into surfing, why not experience the surfing culture in Japan?

How to get to Enoshima from Tokyo?

To get to Enoshima, just take the Odakyu line from Shinjuku to Katase-Enoshima station. This would be the easiest way. Of course, driving is another great option and you can then easily combine your trip with Kamakura (go to Kamakura first and end the day in Enoshima).

Customize your private trip here .

8. Mount Takao for hiking lovers

Best day trip from Tokyo: Mount Takao

Let’s continue the list of best day trips from Tokyo in the mountains with Mount Takao.

Takaosan or Mount Takao can be reached in 1 hour from Tokyo by train to the west.

Several trails are offered depending on your level, ranging from the most “technical” to the simplest. Every route is well marked, so no worries!

Best day trip from Tokyo: Mount Takao

A good physical condition is still necessary to complete the ascent. We actually recommend course #6 either on the way there or on the way back because it is extremely pleasant.

At Mount Takao, you can see beautiful temples nestled deep in nature as well as magnificent viewpoints.

How to get to Mount Takao from Tokyo?

Getting there is very simple thanks to the vast railway network in Japan! In 1 hour from Shinjuku (Keiko Line) you can reach Mount Takao.

9. Visit Shizuoka on a day trip from Japan for its tea plantation

Tea plantations and Mt. Fuji

Heading southwest: in forty minutes by Shinkansen, you can reach Shizuoka.

The natural variety, the cultural heritage (mainly constituted during the Edo period), and the sea make this prefecture a perfect day trip from Tokyo.

People from Tokyo love to go to Shizuoka to find peace and balance their busy daily routines. From there it is also possible to see Mount Fuji.

Between Shizuoka City and Hamamatsu, the tea plantations dominate the landscape with a beautiful view of Mount Fuji in the back. It’s picture-perfect!

The sharp green from the tea plantations and the snow on top of Mount Fuji offer such a unique scenery!

How to get to Shizuoka?

Best day trips in Japan

There are a few ways to get to Shizuoka. As often in Japan, the train would be the most convenient way. Count a little less than 2 hours by train from Tokyo Station.

You can also take an express bus from Shinjuku but it will take about 3 hours… So we highly recommend the train.

10. Shuzenji, Izu Peninsula for its natural beauty and famous onsen

Best day trip from Tokyo: Shuzenji

The Izu Peninsula, which belongs to Shizuoka Prefecture, is a fine illustration of the quintessential Japan.

Jagged coasts, mountainous terrain with sharp peaks, vast forests and so much more await you in this natural paradise.

In fact, the southwest coast is classified as a national monument for the beauty of its landscapes and its cultural value. Local agriculture produces two inseparable ingredients of the Japanese table: shiitake mushroom and wasabi.

However, the onsen are arguably the No. 1 attraction . And Shuzenji, west of Izu City, offers the best conditions to enjoy them.

READ: HOW TO TAKE AN ONSEN IN JAPAN?

Best day trips from Japan_Shuzenji

The conjunction of a source whose origin would be miraculous, Tokko no Yu, and a delightful environment, makes Shuzenji the perfect place to relax outside Tokyo.

There the Ryokan are surrounded by temples, bamboo forests, maple trees, cherry trees, plum trees, and gorgeous and overall stunning landscapes.

Great writers, like Kawabata Yasunari or Natsume Sôseki often escaped here.

How to get to Shuzenji?

To reach Shuzenji, count 45 minutes by Shinkansen from Tokyo Station. Stop at MISHIMA STATION and switch to a 30-minute ride by local bus.

If you have a car, we would recommend driving in Shuzenji. It will be more convenient to explore the entire region and the Izu Peninsula.

Related posts

  • 13 BEST DISTRICTS TO VISIT IN TOKYO
  • WHERE TO STAY IN TOKYO – BEST AREAS AND HOTELS!
  • 10 BEST THINGS TO SEE IN MONZEN-NAKACHO IN TOKYO
  • TOP THINGS TO DO IN GINZA IN TOKYO
  • 15 AWESOME THINGS TO SEE IN HARAJUKU
  • FUN THINGS TO SEE IN SHINJUKU
  • WHAT TO DO IN SHIMOKITAZAWA?
  • BEST THINGS TO SEE IN KOENJI IN TOKYO
  • EXPLORE KAGURAZAKA, THE LITTLE PARIS OF TOKYO
  • DISCOVER TSUKIJI OUTER MARKET IN TOKYO
  • 15 BEST THINGS TO SEE IN ASAKUSA (SENSO-JI)
  • BEST THINGS TO SEE IN NIKKO NEAR TOKYO
  • GUIDE FOR A VISIT TO NARAI-JUKU
  • BEST THINGS TO SEE IN SHIRAKAWA-GO AND GOKAYAMA

' src=

We are Hammer and Guillaume, a fun couple traveling the world. We will take you to some of the most amazing places on earth. Hammer is a yoga instructor and Guillaume a true water baby, enjoying all kinds of water sports. Follow-us to get the latest update about our travels.

Similar Posts

SEOPJIKOJI IN JEJU – COMPLETE GUIDE

SEOPJIKOJI IN JEJU – COMPLETE GUIDE

Seopjikoji is a gorgeous trail along the coast of Jeju. It is one of the best spot to admire the rugged coastline of the island

SHIMOKITAZAWA IN TOKYO – 10 BEST THINGS TO DO [FULL GUIDE]

SHIMOKITAZAWA IN TOKYO – 10 BEST THINGS TO DO [FULL GUIDE]

What to do in Shimokitazawa, Tokyo’s hipster area? Shop for vintage clothes, check out trendy cafes, enjoy the dynamic vibe and so much more!

GUIDE TO THE 5 GRAND PALACES IN SEOUL

GUIDE TO THE 5 GRAND PALACES IN SEOUL

In this post we describe all you need to know about Seoul 5 Grand Palaces: Gyeonbokgung, Changdeokgung, Changgyeonggung etc.

GUIDE TO DEOKSUGUNG PALACE IN SEOUL

GUIDE TO DEOKSUGUNG PALACE IN SEOUL

Deoksugung Palace is one of the 5 main royal palaces in Seoul. Deoksugung is unique by its mix traditional and modern architecture.

20 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN PENANG [MALAYSIA GUIDE]

20 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN PENANG [MALAYSIA GUIDE]

Penang is one of the best places to visit Malaysia. There is a mix of cultural heritage, many parks, awesome food, and nice beaches.

IKSEON-DONG, THE CUTEST PLACE IN SEOUL

IKSEON-DONG, THE CUTEST PLACE IN SEOUL

Ikseon-Dong is a beautiful Hanok Village located right in the heart of Seoul. It is one of the most hip neighborhood in South Korea.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Places to visit about 1 hour from Tokyo

Tokyowan Ferry

Mimusubi shrine

Chiba Prefecture

Image AVEDA

Hachioji Plaza Hotel

Cities 1 hour from Tokyo

1 hour :   Tokorozawa, Japan

58 minutes :   Naka, Japan

58 minutes :   Ichihara, Japan

58 minutes :   Zama, Japan

58 minutes :   Yachiyo, Japan

57 minutes :   Kawagoe, Japan

57 minutes :   Uenohara, Japan

57 minutes :   Okegawa, Japan

56 minutes :   Fujimino, Japan

56 minutes :   Sakado, Japan

56 minutes :   Kashiwa, Japan

55 minutes :   Kasukabe, Japan

54 minutes :   Kodaira, Japan

53 minutes :   Chiba, Japan

52 minutes :   Akishima, Japan

These are approximate driving times in a radius from Tokyo, Japan. Search for vacation spots within driving distance for a day trip or weekend getaway. There are many towns within the total area, so if you're looking for closer places, try a smaller radius. If you're willing to drive farther, try 1½ hours .

Not sure where to go? Take a day trip from Tokyo , or if you have more time you can explore weekend trips from Tokyo , but make sure you also check road conditions around Tokyo . Looking for small towns or communities around Tokyo, Japan? Get a full list of up to 500 cities nearby Tokyo .

Change your settings:

More cities around 1 hour away by plane

Here are more cities based on a flight circle radius of 1 hour. These cities are much further than the ones above since now we're looking at a 1 hour flight.

1 hour :   Oshu, Japan

1 hour :   Osaka, Japan

1 hour :   Maizuru, Japan

1 hour :   Toyonaka, Japan

1 hour :   Matsubara, Japan

1 hour :   Minoh, Japan

1 hour :   Tondabayashi, Japan

1 hour :   Habikino, Japan

1 hour :   Suita, Japan

1 hour :   Gojo, Japan

59 minutes :   Kesennuma, Japan

1 hour :   Yao, Japan

1 hour :   Kashiwara, Japan

59 minutes :   Yuzawa, Japan

1 hour :   Moriguchi, Japan

Cities at a radius of

Travel time from Tokyo, Japan

1 hour north of Tokyo 1 hour south of Tokyo cities within 1 hour of Tokyo 1½ hours from Tokyo places within 2 hours of me in Tokyo explore 2½ hours from Tokyo 3 hr radius map from Tokyo 3½ hr drive from Tokyo places within 4 hours of me in Tokyo within 4½ hours of me in Tokyo 5 hour drive from me in Tokyo 5½ hour drive from Tokyo within 6 hours of Tokyo 7 hour drive from Tokyo driving 8 hours from Tokyo 9 hours from Tokyo

Distance from Tokyo, Japan

cities within 10 km of me in Tokyo within 20 km of me in Tokyo 30 km radius of Tokyo 40 km drive from Tokyo located 50 km from Tokyo 100 km radius from Tokyo within 150 km of Tokyo 200 km road trip from Tokyo distance of 250 km from Tokyo driving 300 km from Tokyo 350 km trip starting from Tokyo 400 km drive from Tokyo drive for 450 km from Tokyo 500 km from Tokyo day trips from Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan is located at GPS latitude/longitude coordinates 35° 41' 6" N  /  139° 45' 5" E

  • Work With Us
  • Blogging Bootcamp

Two Wandering Soles

  • Campervan Life
  • Van Conversion Academy
  • Campervan Shop
  • Campervan Rentals
  • Plan a Trip
  • Itineraries
  • Destinations
  • Responsible Travel
  • Family Travel
  • Budget Travel
  • Scuba Diving
  • Travel Credit Cards
  • Digital Nomad
  • Teach English Abroad
  • Blogging Resources
  • Income Reports
  • Travel Shop
  • Meet Katie & Ben
  • About Two Wandering Soles
  • Personal Stuff
  • Portfolio & Press

15 Best Day Trips from Tokyo

Home » Blog » Japan » 15 Best Day Trips from Tokyo

Whether you’re craving the serenity of a lush forest, a refreshing seaside breeze, or a good glass of wine, this list of the best day trips from Tokyo has everything you need to escape the city for a while.

Kanmangafuchi Abyss Japan

For a big city adventure, you just can’t beat Tokyo. The sprawling capital of Japan has everything, from street food to fine dining, gleaming skyscrapers to historic shrines, the stillness of a zen garden to the hustle and bustle of the world’s busiest train station.

No, but it literally has everything – even its own Disneyland and Statue of Liberty.

There are endless exciting things to do in Tokyo . But sometimes you need a break, ya know?

Within just a few hours of the city, you can experience so much more of what Japan has to offer. 

Day trips from Tokyo Travel Guide

For more tips and advice for traveling around Tokyo, jump to the following sections (or just keep scrolling to see it all!).

  • Day trips from Tokyo
  • Getting around Japan by train
  • Renting a car in Tokyo
  • Round up of day trips from Tokyo

Top recommended day trips from Tokyo

Fukuzawa Tiny Museum Japan

If you’re looking for the absolute best day trips from Tokyo, here are our top recommendations: 

  • Arakurayama Sengen Park

Keep reading for more detailed information on each of these destinations and more ideas for fun day trips from Tokyo. 

Note: The distances and travel times for each of these day trips are estimates and may vary depending on where you’re staying in Tokyo .

Japan Packing List Mobile Banner

If you’re planning a trip to Japan, we have the ultimate resource for you!

This  FREE   PDF download  includes  everything  you’re going to want to pack for your Japan trip, including what NOT to bring, plus tons of insider tips!

Sign up for our  ultimate Japan packing list  now and get a copy sent straight to your inbox.

Before we get to the good stuff, we have a few helpful resources we wanted to share with you…

Traveling around Japan by train 

Japan Rail Pass

Japan’s railway system is known around the world for being clean, fast, and efficient. Between the famous Shinkansen bullet trains, regional rails, and local metros, most of the major tourist destinations in Japan are accessible by train.

The only major downfall about the trains in Japan is that a single ride can be expensive. Depending on where you’re going, it can be very expensive.

But you know us; we love finding sneaky ways to travel (even notoriously expensive countries) on a budget. And we love sharing our secrets with you, so here it is: our VERY detailed guide to train travel in Japan .

Want more tips on traveling Japan on a budget? We have a few practical money-saving tricks up our sleeves that you’ll definitely want to save!

Getting a rental car in Tokyo

Car rental Japan Fuji

Having your own vehicle when visiting will give you a lot more freedom to explore the best day trips from Tokyo. 

We personally like using RentalCars.com when we rent vehicles around the world, as they gather options from all sorts of rental companies in one place. It makes it really easy to compare prices and vehicles so you can determine which is the best option for you.

Search & Compare Rental Car Prices

  • Discover Cars : We personally use this aggregate site to compare rental car prices from all the big name companies and get the best price possible. 
  • RentalCars.com :  We’ve had good experiences finding rental cars with this site in the past. 

Before you book, be sure to read our guide to renting a car in Japan . It’s packed with things you need to know before you get behind the wheel, as well as insider tips to help you feel confident on the road.

Now let’s get to it, shall we?

1. Kamakura

Kamakura Daibutsu Japan

  • At a glance: charming city with iconic Great Buddha statue
  • Distance from Tokyo: 59.6 km / 37 miles
  • Time: 1 hour train ride / 58 minutes driving

Like Kyoto and Nara , Kamakura was once a political capital of Japan. It’s known as the birthplace of both yabusame (horseback archery) and the first samurai government. Now, it’s an eclectic mix of historical and cultural heritage, temples and shrines, and hip, artsy vibes not unlike Southern California.

There are no less than 65 temples and 15 shrines in Kamakura, each with something different to offer.

Kotoku-in Temple is home to the symbol of Kamakura, a colossal bronze statue known as the Great Buddha . Nearby, Hasedera Temple houses Japan’s tallest wooden statue in the gilded likeness of Kannon, the Goddess of Mercy. Tucked away in the hills, Hokokuji Temple is a hidden gem with a quaint teahouse in an airy bamboo forest.

In addition to its high concentration of temples and shrines, Kamakura is also known as a popular seaside getaway. With 7 km (4.4 miles) of coastline and 5 beaches, it’s the perfect location for anyone visiting Tokyo in the summer looking for some sand and surf.

Top things to do in Kamakura

Bamboo forest in Japan

  • Marvel at the Great Buddha. Also known as Daibutsu, this statue at Kotoku-in Temple is one of Japan’s most iconic landmarks and a must-see in Kamakura.
  • Daibutsu trail : Beginning at Kita-Kamakura Station, this 3.7 km trail (2.3 miles) makes its way to the Great Buddha, passing Tokeiji Temple and Jochiji Temple along the way. Afterward, you can follow this route to continue on to Hasedera Temple.
  • Ten-en trail : Known for its stunning fall foliage, this 7.9 km trail (4.9 miles) runs from Kenchoji Temple through the scenic Shishimai Valley to Zuisenji Temple.
  • Gionyama trail : The perfect choice for an easier hike, this 1.1 km (0.68 mile) trail will take you to both Yakumo Shrine and Harakiri Yagura, the burial cave of the famed samurai Hojo Takatoki.
  • Sip tea in a bamboo forest at Hokoku-ji Temple.
  • Catch a wave at Yuigahama Beach . It’s a little known fact that surfing is a beloved sport in Japan, and Kamakura is the best place near Tokyo to experience it. On a clear day, you can even hang ten with a view of Mount Fuji!
  • Shop for Japanese souvenirs on Komachi-dori , a lively street lined with shops and eateries offering local specialties.
  • Go to Zushi Beach for sunset and get a drink and snacks at Surfers.

How to get there

By train: From Shinagawa Station, take the Yokosuka Line to Kamakura Station.

By car: Take Route 1 southbound out of Tokyo, following signs for Metropolitan Expressway Kanagawa Route No.1/Yokohama. Stay on Route 1 as it turns into K1. At the Kinko JCT interchange, follow signs for Kanagawa Route No.2 and continue on K2. Take the Yokohama-Shindo Road exit toward Totsuka/Fujisawa. Continue on E83 until Kagetorichō intersection. Turn left onto 402, then right on 312, and left on 32.

By guided tour: This highly-rated tour combines the highlights of Kamakura with a visit to Enoshima Island for a full day of sightseeing.

Nikko National Park Japan

  • At a glance: ancient city renowned for its natural beauty and World Heritage status
  • Distance from Tokyo: 151 km / 93.8 miles
  • Time: 2 hour 11 minute train ride / 1 hour 50 minutes driving

Resting in the mountains north of Tokyo is the beloved local treasure of Nikko, one of the most beautiful places to visit in Japan .

In fact, this region is so mesmerizing that the Japanese even gave it its own saying: “Don’t say magnificent before having seen Nikko.”

Religious complexes line the city, creating an ancient wonderland of Shinto shrines, Buddhist temples, World Heritage Sites, and mausoleums.

Nearby, Nikko National Park offers another tranquil escape in a sea of tall cedars, mountainous landscapes, waterfalls, and hot springs.

Top things to do in Nikko

Kegon Falls Japan

  • Witness the awe-inspiring Kegon Falls , one of Japan’s highest cascades set dramatically amidst lush greenery.
  • Discover Ryuzu Falls and Yudaki Falls , two waterfalls that are smaller and lesser-known than Kegon, but still worth a visit if you have the time.
  • Wander the Kanmangafuchi Abyss . This riverside trail through a volcanic gorge lined with 70 stone Jizo statues was our favorite thing we did in Nikko.
  • Explore the diverse landscapes of Nikko National Park , such as waterfalls, hot springs, and hiking trails.
  • Enjoy a relaxing boat ride on Lake Chuzenji.
  • Cross the red-painted Shinkyo Bridge , the oldest bridge in Japan as well as Nikko’s most iconic sight.
  • See the UNESCO-listed Tosho-Gu Shrine . This lavish mausoleum is the final resting place of former shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu.
  • Visit Rinnoji Temple , Nikko’s most important temple boasting three 7.5-meter gilded Buddha statues.
  • Try yuba , a local specialty of tofu skins (way more delicious than it sounds!).

By train: From Kitasenju Station, take the Tobu-Nikko Line to Shimo-Imaichi Station.

By car: Take S1 northbound out of Tokyo, continuing onto Tohoku Expressway (E4). Stay on E4 for about 103 km (64 miles), then take the exit for Utsunomiya IC toward Nikko onto Route 119. Finally, take the exit for Dosawa IC onto Route 121.

By guided tour: This day trip from Tokyo includes stops at Tosho-Gu Shrine and Kegon Falls, as well as some free time to explore Nikko on your own.

Mt Fuji Japan autumn

  • At a glance: snow-capped volcano and Japan’s most iconic landmark
  • Distance from Tokyo: 139 km / 86.4 miles
  • Time: 1.5 hour train ride / 1 hour 48 minutes driving

When you think about Japan, the majestic peak of Mount Fuji is probably one of the first images that comes to mind, possibly framed with pastel cherry blossoms or fiery fall foliage . You know, the quintessential postcard shot.

In addition to being wildly popular for photography, Mount Fuji is worshiped by both Shinto and Buddhist religions as one of three sacred mountains in Japan, along with Mount Haku and Mount Tateyama .

Catching a glimpse of the beloved peak is undoubtedly one of the top things to do in Japan , but it comes with a catch: Mount Fuji is notoriously shy.

Despite being Japan’s tallest mountain that can even be seen from Tokyo on a clear day, Fooj is, more often than not, shrouded in cloud or fog, invisible even from nearby viewpoints.

We have firsthand experience with making the trip to see Mount Fuji, only to be met with a wall of gray clouds. To say we were disappointed is an understatement.

But the good news is that, even if you don’t get the postcard view, there’s enough to enjoy in the town of Fuji that it’ll still be worth your time. Besides, you never know, you might just get lucky! (Like we did on —ahem— our third trip to Japan.)

Top things to do in Fuji

Shiraito Falls Fuji Japan

  • Good to know: The climbing season for Mount Fuji runs from July to early September.
  • Lake Kawaguchiko : quintessential lakeside view of Mount Fuji with cherry blossoms or maple leaves in the foreground.
  • Arakurayama Sengen Park : iconic view of Chureito Pagoda set against the backdrop of Mount Fuji.
  • Explore the Fuji Five Lakes . Made up of Lake Kawaguchi, Lake Yamanaka, Lake Sai, Lake Shoji, and Lake Motosu, this region offers both hiking trails and water activities, each with a unique perspective of Mount Fuji.
  • Visit the breathtaking Shiraito Falls . In the foothills of Mount Fuji, thin streams of water cascade over a lush green cliff face nearly 500 feet wide, resembling delicate strands of silk. Shiraito Falls wasn’t on our itinerary originally, but we were so glad we decided to squeeze it in!
  • Slurp hoto , a famous hotpot dish local to Yamanashi Prefecture made with thick, hearty noodles and pumpkin in a miso-based broth.
  • Discover Kubota Itchiku Art Museum , a display of intricately dyed kimonos with a stunning Japanese garden and teahouse.
  • Take a wild ride at Fuji-Q Highland , one of Japan’s most popular amusement parks with Guinness World Record roller coasters.

By train: From Shinagawa Station, take the Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen to Shin-Fuji Station.

By car: Follow Route 3 out of Tokyo onto E1. Continue traveling southwest on E1 for about 121 km (75 miles), then take the exit for Route 139 at Fuji IC toward Fuji/Fujinomiya.

By guided tour: This affordable tour from Get Your Guide will take you to the most popular Mount Fuji viewpoints, such as Arakura Sengen Shrine and Kawaguchiko Lake (#6 and #8 on this list of Tokyo day trips).

4. Yokohama

Yokohama Japan (Unsplash)

  • At a glance: vibrant port city just outside Tokyo
  • Distance from Tokyo: 35.8 km / 22.3 miles
  • Time: 26 minute train ride / 33 minutes driving

Located about half an hour south of Tokyo, Yokohama is Japan’s second-largest city, as well as a super easy one to zip out to for an exciting day trip.

Yokohama was one of the first ports to open to international trade after Japan’s isolationist Edo Period, so the city is well known for its multiculturalism. In fact, its historic Chinatown is the largest in Japan, with around 500 shops and restaurants offering authentic cuisine, goods, and groceries.

Top things to do in Yokohama

foods to eat in Japan | ramen

  • Wander the colorful streets of Yokohama Chinatown while satisfying all your cravings for authentic Chinese food.
  • Stroll through Sankeien Garden , a traditional Japanese garden with serene waterscapes, flowers, teahouses, and a pagoda.
  • Good to know: the museum is currently closed for renovations and scheduled to reopen in March 2024.
  • Board the NYK Hikawa Maru , a passenger ship turned floating museum that illustrates Yokohama’s maritime history.
  • Tour the Kirin Beer Factory while learning about the brewing process through a variety of interactive exhibits and hands-on experiences.
  • Shop and dine in the historic Red Brick Warehouse , a symbol of Yokohama’s port history with a variety of boutiques and restaurants. Head to the third floor balcony for sweeping harbor views.
  • If you’re more of a noodle purest, try the Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum instead to discover different regional styles of Japan’s beloved noodle dish.

By train: There are a couple of trains you can take to Yokohama Station depending on where you’re staying in Tokyo. From Shinagawa Station, take the Keikyu Main Line – Limited Express Misakiguchi. Otherwise, take the Toyoko Line from Shibuya Station.

By car: Follow Route 1 south out of Tokyo all the way to Yokohama.

By guided tour: This new half-day tour from Get Your Guide includes pickup in Tokyo and a guide who will take you to both famous attractions and hidden gems in Yokohama.

Hakone Japan

  • At a glance: picturesque hot spring town with views of Mount Fuji
  • Distance from Tokyo: 85.1 km / 52.9 miles
  • Time: 1 hour 42 minute train ride / 1 hour 8 minutes driving

Nestled in the mountains on the shores of Lake Ashinoko, Hakone is known as a great place to view Mount Fuji. However, even if you aren’t able to glimpse the iconic mountain (all we saw was a sea of white clouds on our first visit), this small town still makes for a peaceful day trip from Tokyo.

Hakone is a renowned hot spring destination full of traditional Japanese guest houses called ryokan, many of which have therapeutic onsens that are open to the public. During our first trip to Japan in the winter of 2015, we took a steamy dip in the private onsen at Fuji-Hakone Guest House and relaxed with wine as snowflakes fell all around us. Talk about magical!

Insider tip: You may want to consider getting the Hakone Free Pass for your day trip. This is the most cost-effective package that includes all bus tickets in the area, as well as a lake cruise and a gondola ride.

Top things to do in Hakone

Black egg Hakone Japan

  • Soak in one of Hakone’s many onsens . Try to find one that’s outdoors for a chance to see Mount Fuji.
  • Explore the Hakone Open-Air Museum , where the natural environment is the setting of various sculptures and art installations.
  • Eat a black egg in Owakudani . The eggs are boiled in the hot springs and legend says that eating one will add 7 years to your life.
  • Cruise Lake Ashinoko on a pirate ship . This cheesy-but-fun tourist activity is a unique way to sightsee around the lake and is included in the Hakone Free Pass.
  • Good to know: Sections of the ropeway will be out of service for maintenance January – March, 2024. Full service is set to resume March 18.
  • Discover Hakone Shrine , the region’s most important Shinto shrine. From the red torii gate standing in the waters of Lake Ashi to the buildings hidden in the deep forest, this picturesque shrine embraces its natural surroundings.
  • Stroll through a sea of swaying pampas at Sengokuhara Susuki Grass Fields, a dreamy landscape that changes color with the seasons.

By train: The simplest way to get to Hakone from Tokyo by train is to take the Limited Express Romancecar from Shinjuku Station to Hakone-Yumoto Station. This train, designed for sightseeing, costs ¥2,470 (about $17.50 USD) and is not included in the Hakone Free Pass.

Alternatively, if you have the JR Pass you can use it to get as close as Odawara Station, then use the Hakone Free Pass from there. There are no JR lines within the Hakone region.

By car: Take Route 3 southwest out of Tokyo onto the Tomei Expressway (E1). At the Atsugi Interchange, get on Route 271 and continue until Odawara-nishi Interchange. Then follow Route 1 to Hakone city center.

By guided tour: This bus tour from Get Your Guide includes a pirate ship cruise on Lake Ashinoko as well as a gondola ride up Mount Hakone, finishing with your choice between shopping at the Gotemba Premium Outlets or relaxing in an onsen.

6. Arakurayama Sengen Park

Mount Fuji Japan

  • At a glance: postcard views of Chureito Pagoda and Mount Fuji
  • Distance from Tokyo: 108 km / 67 miles
  • Time: 2.5 hour train ride / 1 hour 25 minutes driving

Located in Fujiyoshida not far from Tokyo, Arakurayama Sengen Park is celebrated as one of the best places to view and photograph Mount Fuji.

This is where you get that postcard-perfect shot – you know the one I’m talking about. The vermillion 5-tiered pagoda (it’s called Chureito Pagoda, if you didn’t know) rising out of a sea of pink and white cherry blossoms, set against the backdrop of Japan’s most iconic peak.

That’s the dream, anyway.

Of course, the reality is that you’ll be bumping elbows with hordes of other tourists ( especially during sakura season), and you may not even see Mount Fuji, who is notoriously shy and likes to hide behind clouds.

I’m not saying all this to be a downer or to dissuade you from going, but to help you manage your expectations. The first time we tried to see Mount Fuji, all we got was a seemingly solid wall of white clouds. But on our most recent trip to Japan, we got super lucky and had several days of clear Fuji views. You just never know!

Top things to do in Arakurayama Sengen Park

Chuerito Pagoda Arakurayama Sengen Park Fuji Japan

  • Climb 398 steps to the observation deck for the best views.
  • Capture iconic photos of Chureito Pagoda with Mount Fuji in the background.
  • Witness seasonal foliage , such as cherry blossoms in the spring and fiery red Japanese maples in the fall.
  • Admire Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine .
  • Hike the forested Gongon-ishi trails.

By train: Take the Chuo Line from Shinjuku to Shimoyoshida Station. From there, you can either take a local bus or walk about 20 minutes to Arakurayama Sengen Park.

By car: Follow Route 4 westbound out of Tokyo. At Takaido Interchange, get on Chuo Expressway (E20) and continue until Otsuki Interchange. Turn onto Kawaguchiko Rte (E68), then exit at Fujiyoshida-Nishikatsura Smart Interchange. 

By guided tour: Arakurayama Sengen Park is included in this full-day sightseeing tour from Tokyo, as well as other famous landmarks in the Fujisan area.

7. Hitachi Seaside Park

Hitachi Seaside Park Japan (Unsplash)

  • At a glance: sweeping fields of colorful flowers
  • Distance from Tokyo: 126 km / 78.3 miles
  • Time: 1 hour 54 minute train ride / 1 hour 27 minutes driving

Situated in Ibaraki Prefecture northeast of Tokyo, Hitachi Seaside Park covers the slopes of Japan’s Pacific coast with millions of flowers that bloom year-round.

The park’s most iconic flower is nemophila, whose delicate sky-blue petals carpet Miharashi Hill around late-April to mid-May. On a clear day, the sky, sea, and flowers together create a 360-degree periwinkle panorama.

Spring also brings yellow and white narcissus, rows of colorful tulips, poppies, and roses. Summer blooms include sunflowers and zinnia, while the fluffy, rounded kochia bushes display a vivid lime green.

Moving into fall, the kochia gradually turn a vibrant shade of scarlet while cosmos explode in pinks and oranges. Even winter has its blooms with ice tulips and Japanese plum trees.

In addition to flowers, Hitachi Seaside Park features a small amusement park with a giant ferris wheel, a few other retro rides, and a putt-putt golf course, making it a great day trip for families.

Top things to do in Hitachi Seaside Park

Hitachi Seaside Park Japan

  • Admission ranges from ¥450-700 (about $3-5 USD) depending on the season.
  • Rent a bicycle and explore the park’s expansive grounds on two wheels. There are separate paths for walking and cycling throughout the park for added safety and comfort.
  • Take a spin on the giant ferris wheel and enjoy panoramic views of both the park and the Pacific Ocean.
  • Play a round of putt-putt golf on the 36-hole course.

By train: From Ueno Station, take the Hitachi and Tokiwa train to Katsuta Station, then catch a local bus to Hitachi Seaside Park.

By car: Take Route 6 northbound out of Tokyo, continuing onto Joban Expressway (E6). At Tomobe Junction, get on the Kita Kanto Expressway (E50) and follow to Hitachi Seaside Park.

By guided tour: Hitachi Seaside Park is the final stop on this day trip from Tokyo , which also includes Oarai Isosaki Shrine and Nakaminato Fish Market.

8. Lake Kawaguchi

Mount Fuji Japan

  • At a glance: water activities and scenic views at the foot of Mt. Fuji
  • Distance from Tokyo: 114 km / 70.8 miles
  • Time: 2 hour 35 minute train ride / 1 hour 28 minutes driving

The most accessible of the Fuji Five Lakes, Lake Kawaguchi is undoubtedly one of the most popular places to view and photograph Mount Fuji. The serene waters of the lake reflect the iconic peak within a frame of seasonal foliage, changing from cherry blossoms in the spring to crimson maple leaves in the fall.

Even if you aren’t lucky enough to see Mount Fuji, a day trip to Lake Kawaguchi promises a relaxing break from the big city with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the area’s natural beauty.

Top things to do in Lake Kawaguchi

Momiji Corridor Lake Kawaguchi Japan

  • Snap a postcard-worthy photo of Mount Fuji from the northern shore of the lake.
  • Cruise Lake Kawaguchi for a unique perspective of Mount Fuji and the surrounding landscapes.
  • Ride the Kachi Kachi Ropeway for panoramic views of Lake Kawaguchi and Mount Fuji.
  • Visit Kubota Itchiku Art Musuem to see a breathtakingly impressive collection of kimonos (trust me, it’s worth it!). The gardens on the ground are stunning and the onsite teahouse is a nice place to relax with a matcha set.
  • Discover the Kawaguchiko Music Forest , a museum that houses antique music boxes and other mechanical instruments set amongst beautiful European-style gardens.
  • Good to know: This location is different from the Momiji Tunnel , which is a popular spot to photograph Mount Fuji.
  • Make your own jam at the Kawaguchiko Natural Living Center . This family-friendly experience is located in Oishi Park, a prime Mount Fuji viewing spot. The center also offers a couple of cafes, a handful of shops, and fruit picking in the summer.
  • Relax in an onsen with a view . Lake Kawaguchi has plenty of hot springs to choose from for a steamy soak.

By train: Take the Chuo Line from Shinjuku to Kawaguchiko Station, then catch a local bus to the lake.

By car: Follow Route 4 westbound out of Tokyo. At Takaido Interchange, get on Chuo Expressway (E20) and continue until Otsuki Interchange. Turn onto Kawaguchiko Rte (E68). At Kawaguchiko Interchange, get on Route 139 westbound, then turn right onto Route 707.

By guided tour: This day trip from Tokyo includes stops at Arakurayama Sengen Park (#6 on this list), the Kawaguchiko craft park, Oishi Park, and finally the traditional village of Saiko Iyashi no Sato Nenba.

Akigawa Valley, Akiruno, Tokyo, Japan

  • At a glance: scenic escape with lush greenery and quirky attractions
  • Distance from Tokyo: 52.5 km / 32.6 miles
  • Time: 1 hour 4 minute train ride / 50 minutes driving

Located within the Tokyo Metropolitan area, Akiruno is one of the most accessible day trips from Tokyo. But with peaceful temples and fairytale forests dotted around the meandering Aki River, it couldn’t feel further from the neon and steel of the big city.

“Aki” is Japanese for “autumn”, so it’s no surprise that fall is considered the best time to visit. The momiji (Japanese maple) and gingko trees in the Akigawa Valley, ablaze with shades of red and gold, create a brilliant tapestry of color.

But there’s also a case to be made for early summer, when 10,000 hydrangeas burst to life on the forested slopes of Minamisawa Ajisai Mountain. Paths weave through the pink and blue flowers beneath towering cedar trees, creating a magical atmosphere.

Top things to do in Akiruno

Fukuzawa Tiny Museum Japan

  • Witness the captivating fall foliage of the Akigawa Valley .
  • Walk across Ishibune Bridge , a 96-meter (315 ft) footbridge over the Akigawa River that provides panoramic views of the scenic gorge.
  • Sip a hot drink at the Fukuzawa Tiny Museum . They only serve black coffee and tea, but we loved visiting this quirky little cafe, owned by a sweet couple and filled with the husband’s whimsical art. There’s a lovely garden with a koi pond out back and, as a bonus, we had the place all to ourselves!
  • Cuddle adorable pigs at Pignic Farm & Cafe . (pictured below)

Pig cafe Japan

  • Visit Kotokuji Temple , known for its moss-covered gate and gingko trees that surround the temple in a canopy and carpet of golden leaves in the fall.
  • Good to know: the hydrangeas bloom in mid-June to early July. During hydrangea season, there is a ¥600 ($4.15 USD) entry fee. No parking is available and visitors are asked not to bring a vehicle.
  • Explore Odake Limestone Cave , a 300-meter (984 ft) subterranean gallery of natural rock formations beneath a sacred mountain.

By train: Take the Chuo Line from Shinjuku to Haijima Station, then catch a local bus to Akiruno.

By car: Take Route 4 westbound out of Tokyo to Takaido Interchange and get on Chuo Expressway (E20). At Hachioji Interchange, follow signs for Central Hachioji/Akishima. Turn right at Tanino Kaido intersection onto Route 166. Make a left onto Route 169, following signs to your destination.

10. Wine country: Yamanashi Prefecture

Yamanashi Japan wine

  • At a glance: rolling vineyards and serene lakes with Mt. Fuji views
  • Distance from Tokyo: 121 km / 75.2 miles
  • Time: 1 hour 18 minute train ride / 1 hour 13 minutes driving

When you hear “wine country”, you probably think of France, Italy , Napa, maybe New Zealand … but I’m betting Japan doesn’t come to mind, right?

Well as it turns out, Japan actually has its own wine country in Yamanashi Prefecture , just west of Tokyo.

It’s known as Japan’s “fruit kingdom”, and it’s easy to see why. Not only does Yamanashi produce more grapes, peaches, and plums than anywhere else in the country, they also grow cherries, persimmons, pears, apples, kiwi, and strawberries.

At the heart of Yamanashi is the Kofu Basin, a sunny valley encircled by mountains. Conditions in the basin are just right for vineyards, including a unique local specialty, the Koshu grape.

But if you’re not a wino, don’t scroll away just yet – the Kofu Basin is also known for its abundance of pure, fresh water, which is used to make high-quality sake, whiskey, and craft beer in addition to wine.

Oh, and did we mention a lot of the wineries have views of Mount Fuji?!

Top things to do in Yamanashi Prefecture

Yamanashi Japan wine

  • Go wine tasting in Katsunuma. There are around 40 wineries to choose from in Katsunuma alone, but Chateau Mercian is one that offers tours in English, as well as a tasting room and a wine museum.
  • Pick fruit in an orchard and enjoy seasonal produce as fresh as it gets.
  • Admission fees for both are around ¥900-1,000 (less than $7 USD).
  • Visit Daizenji Temple . Nicknamed “Grape Temple”, this is a fitting historic site to add to your wine country itinerary. Daizenji overlooks the Kofu Plain from its position on a hillside covered with vineyards, and it houses a statue of a grape-bearing Buddha.
  • Hike to Nanatsugama Godan Falls , a spectacular 5-tiered turquoise waterfall in the Nishizawa Valley of Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park. This loop takes about 3.5 hours to complete and could be done on a day trip.

By train: From Shinjuku Station, take the Chuo Line to Enzan Station in Koshu. The express trains are the fastest, but are expensive if you don’t have the JR Pass . The regular train takes about 30 minutes longer, but costs about half as much.

By car: It’s a straightforward drive from Tokyo to Katsunuma in Yamanashi Prefecture via the Chuo Expressway (E20).

11. Chichibu

Chichibu Japan (Unsplash)

  • At a glance: nature, culture, and outdoor adventures surrounded by mountains
  • Distance from Tokyo: 109 km / 67.7 miles
  • Time: 2 hour 4 minute train ride / 1 hour 41 minutes driving

Surrounded by densely forested mountains, intersected by the meandering Arakawa River, and neighbored by a national park, the picturesque town of Chichibu is a treasure trove of outdoor adventure within reach of the city.

Each season has something different to offer, from springtime blooms to dazzling winter ice formations, and the Nakatsu Valley is considered one of the 100 best places in Japan to see fall foliage.

Top things to do in Chichibu

Icicles of Misotsuchi Chichibu Japan (Unsplash)

  • Travel through the Nakatsu Valley in autumn to see the 10-kilometer (6.2 mile) long valley alight with fiery fall foliage.
  • Get your adrenaline pumping at Chichibu Geo Gravity Park . Soar high above the Arakawa River on a zipline, plunge into the abyss with a bungee jump, or try the canyon walk or swing.
  • Go whitewater rafting in nearby Nagatoro. This company offers tours in English.
  • See the shibazakura (moss phlox) in bloom. In late spring, Hitsujiyama Park becomes a sea of vibrant fuschia, magenta, and white flower gardens laid out in elaborate designs.
  • Try the shaved ice at Asami Reizou . Customers queue up at this shop in Nagatoro for a chance to try the famous dessert, made from ice harvested outside in the winter and flavored with natural toppings.
  • Marvel at the Icicles of Misotsuchi , a natural phenomenon that only appears in the coldest weeks of the year when mountain runoff freezes over a rock wall.
  • Attend Chichibu Yomatsuri in early December. The famous Night Festival includes a parade of illuminated floats, a 2-hour fireworks display, and tons of street food.
  • Walk part of the Chichibu Pilgrimage Circuit , a historic route connecting 34 temples across the county. Chichibu Tourism offers a recommended day trip route on their website here .
  • Visit Mitsumine Shrine , a Shinto site dedicated to sacred mountain wolves. Sadly, the Japanese wolf is now extinct, but the shrine offers a serene woodland atmosphere and impressive mountain views.

By train: From Ikebukuro Station, take the Seibu Ikebukuro Line Limited Express to Seibu-Chichibu Station.

By car: Follow Kan-etsu Expressway (E17) heading northwest out of Tokyo. At Hanazono Interchange, get on Route 140 and continue to Chichibu.

12. Mt. Nokogiri

Mt. Nokogiri Japan (Unsplash)

  • At a glance: captivating rock formations and Buddhist temple with views of Tokyo Bay
  • Distance from Tokyo: 80 km / 49.8 miles
  • Time: 2 hour 21 minute train ride / 56 minutes driving

On the west coast of the Boso Peninsula in Chiba Prefecture, Mt. Nokogiri looms 329 meters high (1,079 feet) over the small seaside towns of Kanaya and Hota.

Nokogiriyama translates to “saw mountain”, named for its jagged, rocky ridgeline that resembles the teeth of a saw. Below the ridgeline, sheer, vertical cliffs of bare granite drop dramatically into lush forest.

Networks of hiking trails, panoramic viewpoints, and a large temple complex make Mt. Nokogiri well worth a day’s exploration.

If you’re driving, there is a toll road off Route 127 on the outskirts of Hota with parking near the summit. Otherwise, you can take the ropeway from Kanaya or ascend on foot via some-2,639-odd steps.

Top things to do in Mt. Nokogiri

Jigoku Nozoki Mt. Nokogiri Japan (Unsplash)

  • Test your nerve at Jigoku Nozoki , aka “Hell Peek Point”. One of the highest lookouts in Chiba Prefecture, visitors queue up to feel the thrill of peering straight down into the abyss from a rock that juts over the edge of the cliff.
  • Good to know: there is an admission fee of ¥700 ($4.85 USD) to enter the temple grounds, which includes all mountaintop landmarks.
  • Marvel at the giant granite Buddha statue , one of the largest in Japan.
  • Fun fact: the name “Hyaku-Shaku” describes the height of the statue – 30 meters (almost 100 feet).
  • Look for the smaller rakan statues. There are hundreds of carvings of Buddha’s disciples scattered throughout the temple grounds, tucked away in caves and crevices.
  • Fee: ¥650 one-way or ¥1,200 round-trip ($4.50 / $8 USD)

By train: To get to Mt. Nokogiri from Tokyo, you can either take the train around the edge of Tokyo Bay, or take a bus across. Despite the bus route being more direct, both take about the same amount of time.

By car: The quickest driving route from Tokyo to Mt. Nokogiri is via the Tokyo Wan Aqua Tunnel which runs under Tokyo Bay. Continue on the expressway to Kisarazu Junction, then turn onto Tateyama Expressway (E14) toward Tateyama. At Kisarazu-minami Junction, keep left to continue south on E14 to your destination.

13. Kawagoe

Kawagoe Japan (Unsplash)

  • At a glance: historic charm, Edo-period architecture, and cultural attractions
  • Distance from Tokyo: 35.4 km / 22 miles
  • Time: 25 minute train ride / 46 minutes driving

The city of Kawagoe in Saitama Prefecture is often referred to as “Koedo”, which translates to “Little Edo”.

Wandering the streets lined with Edo-period architecture housing traditional shops and eateries, you might feel like you’ve stepped back in time. A nostalgic and enchanting atmosphere pervades the streets, like a living museum.

As you explore, be sure to try a sweet potato snack or two. This local specialty can be found in just about everything, from ice cream to craft beer.

Top things to do in Kawagoe

Ryokan stay in Japan

  • Visit Kitain Temple and see the only remaining buildings of Edo Castle. The buildings were moved to Kawagoe from Edo (now Tokyo) in the mid-17th century. The rest of the castle was subsequently destroyed, along with much of Tokyo, in earthquakes and bombings.
  • Explore Kurazukuri no Machinami , a street lined with traditional merchant-style warehouses with clay walls displaying Edo-period architecture.
  • Sample sweets in Candy Alley (Kashiya Yokocho) , a narrow street known for its traditional Japanese confectionery shops.
  • Hear the bell ring at Toki no Kane , a 16-meter (52.5 ft) wooden bell tower that translates to “bell of time”. The bell rings daily at 6 a.m., noon, 3 p.m., and 6 p.m.
  • Women’s rental: ¥2,200 (~$15 USD)
  • Men’s rental: ¥3,300 (~$23 USD)
  • Couples’ rental: ¥4,950 (~$34 USD)
  • Use a small fishing rod to catch a red snapper charm with your omikuji (fortune) attached, and keep the charm as a cute souvenir.
  • If you’re looking for love, purchase a red pencil . It’s said that as the pencil gets smaller with use, so too does the distance between you and your destined match.
  • Stroll through the Ema Tunnel , where more than 30,000 wooden prayer plates express their thanks and wishes.
  • Listen to the peaceful melodies of wind chimes that decorate the shrine in summer.
  • Have unaju for lunch , a popular local dish of broiled eel served over rice.
  • Drink craft beer at the Coedo Brewery . A unique one to try is Beniaka, an imperial amber ale brewed with roasted Saitama sweet potatoes.

By train: From Ikebukuro Station, take the Tobu-Tojo Line 23 Rapid-Liner Ogawamachi to Kawagoe Station.

By car: It’s a straightforward drive from Tokyo to Kawagoe via the Kan-etsu Expressway (E17). At the Kawagoe Interchange, exit onto Route 16 toward Kawagoe/Sayama.

14. Karuizawa 

Karuizawa Japan (Pixabay)

  • At a glance: bougie resort town in the mountains
  • Distance from Tokyo: 173 km / 107.5 miles
  • Time: 1 hour 19 minute train ride / 2 hours 16 minutes driving

If you’re visiting Tokyo in the summer, Karuizawa might be just what you need for a reprieve from the sweltering heat and humidity. Due to its elevation, the town is known for having a refreshing climate even in the hottest months.

That said, with skiing and hot springs in the winter, springtime blooms, and breathtaking fall foliage, Karuizawa has something to offer in every season.

Made popular by wealthy expats who built vacation homes in the mountains to escape the summer heat, Karuizawa has some bougie attractions that cater to the luxury crowd, such as golf courses and the high-end designer brands found at Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza.

But if you know where to look, there are plenty of fun (sometimes free!) activities that even budget travelers can enjoy.

Top things to do in Karuizawa

Shiraito Falls Fuji Japan

  • Enjoy panoramic views from the Usui Pass Observation Platform . This lookout is free to visit and offers stunning alpine views of Gunma Prefecture on one side and Mount Asama on the other.
  • Browse tour options here .
  • Visit Onioshidashi Park , a surreal landscape of volcanic rock at the foot of Mount Asama within a national park.
  • Go museum-hopping . Got unlucky with the weather? Karuizawa has you covered for rainy days with museums ranging from traditional art galleries and historical exhibits to the fun and family-friendly Trick Art Museum .
  • Walk in famous footsteps at the Mampei Hotel , a historic Western-style hotel known as John Lennon’s favorite place to stay in Karuizawa.
  • Chase waterfalls . There are several accessible cascades close to Karuizawa, including Shiraito Falls (one of our faves!), Tatsugaeshi Falls , and Senga Falls .
  • Minenochaya – Shiraito Falls : 6.1 km out-and-back trail to a gorgeous waterfall
  • Seventh Station – Mount Tateshina : challenging 4.8 km out-and-back hike up a steep mountain
  • Sengataki Falls : 2.6 km out-and-back trail to a pretty waterfall
  • Mount Kosama : 3.7 km out-and-back climb to panoramic views

By train: From Ueno Station, take the Hokuriku-Shinkansen to Karuizawa Station.

By car: Get on the Kan-etsu Expressway (E17) heading northwest out of Tokyo. At Fujioka Junction, keep left for Joshin-etsu Expressway (E18), following signs for Nagano. Follow E18 to Usui-Karuizawa Interchange and exit onto Route 92. Continue onto Route 43 and make a left on Route 18.

By guided tour: This new day trip from Get Your Guide that includes Karuizawa, Hoshino Onsen, and Glacier Shrine has been getting great reviews.

15. Sayama Hills

Sayama Hills Japan (AllTrails)

  • At a glance: verdant landscapes and scenic hiking trails
  • Distance from Tokyo: 49 km / 30.4 miles
  • Time: 1 hour 24 minute train ride / 56 minutes driving

Just north of Japan’s sprawling metropolis in Saitama Prefecture, Sayama Hills is one of the best day trips from Tokyo for those seeking a nature break off the typical tourist path.

In less than two hours, you can swap the chaos of the city for peaceful woods where butterflies dance in soft sunlight filtering through a green canopy.

More popular with locals than with tourists, Sayama Hills is best known for its role in inspiring the forest setting of the Studio Ghibli film, My Neighbor Totoro . Affectionately known as “Totoro’s Forest”, the park is dotted with signs that share tidbits about the film.

Top things to do in Sayama Hills

  • Wander the wooded trails of Sayama Hills , aka Totoro’s Forest. Even those unfamiliar with the Ghibli character can appreciate the peace and beauty of these magical woods.
  • Hang out in Sayama Nature Park , a lakeside park with picnic tables, walking trails, and sports ground.
  • Stroll or cycle around Sayama Lake.
  • Explore Miyaderafukuronooka Park , a nearby nature preserve with hiking trails, a Dragonfly Swamp, and the Saitama Green Forest Museum. This loop is a good choice for a decent hike you can do in around 2 hours.

By train: From Ikebukuro Station, take the Ikebukuro Line Express Hanno train to Kotesashi Station, then catch a local bus to your destination.

By car: Head north out of Tokyo on Route 5 and turn left on Route 311. In Nerima City, make a right onto Mejiro-dori Avenue and continue onto Kan-etsu Expressway (E17). At Tokorozawa Interchange, exit onto Route 463 toward Tokorozawa/Saitama. Continue onto Route 179 and follow to your destination.

Round up of the best day trips from Tokyo

Here’s a recap of all the best day trips from Tokyo so you can see everything in one place.

  • Hitachi Seaside Park
  • Lake Kawaguchi
  • Wine country: Yamanashi Prefecture
  • Mt. Nokogiri
  • Sayama Hills

Are you planning a trip to Japan?

We have TONS of resources on travel in Japan and destinations throughout the country. Check out our  Ultimate Japan Travel Guide  for all the answers to your most burning questions, or read some of our favorite articles below.

  • One Week in Japan: Best Itinerary for your First Visit
  • Most Beautiful Places in Japan You Need to See for Yourself
  • Cherry Blossoms in Japan: When & Where to See Them
  • Autumn in Japan: Where & When to see Fall Foliage

Be sure to download our  complete packing list for Japan !  It’s packed with good suggestions and  insider tips  to help plan your Japan trip. And it’s completely  FREE , so why not!?

Japan Packing list Opt-In banner

Save this article to Pinterest for later!

Day trips from Tokyo (Pin D)

We want to hear from you!

Which of these day trips from Tokyo is up your alley? Do you have any suggestions we might have missed? Let us know in the comments below and we’ll do our best to get back to you!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

  • Destinations

26 Best Day Trips from Tokyo

Best One-Day Tours and Activities from Tokyo

Best Day Trips 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

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

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

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

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

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

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

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

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

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

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

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

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

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

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

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

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

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

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

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

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

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

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

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

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

places to visit 1 hour 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

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

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

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

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

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

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

https://byfood.b-cdn.net/api/public/assets/4983/content?optimizer=image

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

https://byfood.b-cdn.net/api/public/assets/23180/content?optimizer=image

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

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

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

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

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

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

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!

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

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!

10 Days Itinerary: Tokyo and the Best of Eastern Japan

▽Related Articles▽

5 Best Temple Stays near Tokyo

  • Things to Do

Bucket List Seekers

Extraordinary Travel for Ordinary Couples

Japan , Travel Inspiration · May 8, 2023

Tokyo Beyond the City: 11 Places to Visit from Tokyo on a Day Trip

Mount Fuji view with Cherry Blossoms from Churito Pagoda - a great Tokyo day trip in Spring in Japan

Looking for the best day trips from Tokyo to add to your Japan itinerary ? Or perhaps you’re looking for a quick overnight trip not too far from the city? There are some really exciting places to visit from Tokyo. Here are 11 Tokyo day trips that are each unique in their own way and well worth a visit.

If you’re planning your first trip to Japan , then you will most likely spend some time in Tokyo . Tokyo is not only an incredible city in its own right, but it’s also a great base to explore some of the surrounding destinations on a day trip, while still enjoying the conveniences that a city offers.

From the scenic mountains and hot springs of  Hakone , Nikko, or Mount Fuji to beautiful gardens in Kanazawa or Ashikaga, and so much more. There are plenty of amazing options of places to visit near Tokyo that are sure to leave you speechless. 

So, grab your daypack and camera, and let’s explore some of the best day trips from Tokyo together!

Here are 11 Highly Rated Places to Visit from Tokyo on a Day Trip!

Did You Know?  We use ads to help pay the bills so we can continue to publish free travel advice. We also have affiliate partnerships, so when you click through and make a purchase or book your stay from one of our blog posts, we may receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you). Thank you for supporting Bucket List Seekers! Read our  Disclosure Policy  for more details.

In This Post:

Tokyo Day Trips – At A Glance

Don’t have time to read the full article now? No worries, you can add it to your reading list and save it for later. But in the meantime, here’s a brief rundown of the 11 places we recommend visiting on a day trip from Tokyo:

  • Mount Takao 
  • Hitachi Seaside Park
  • Izu Peninsula
  • Ashikaga Flower Park

Related articles you may be interested in:

  • The Ultimate Guide to Planning a Trip to Japan
  • 20 Things to Know Before Visiting Japan for the First Time
  • 5 Best Places to Visit in Japan for First Timers
  • The Ultimate Japan Bucket List: 230+ Experiences
  • Japan 7 Day Itinerary: From Tokyo to Kyoto

11 Incredible Places to Visit from Tokyo

#1 | hakone.

Pirate Ship and orange Torii Gate on Lake Ashi in Hakone, one of the easiest places to visit from Tokyo in Japan

Hakone  is a picturesque mountain town region located in the Kanagawa Prefecture. It’s one of our favourite places to visit near Tokyo because it’s really close to the city but is still kind of a hidden gem . We always recommend Hakone to our friends as one of the top places to visit Japan for the first time , which is why we’ve placed it number one on this list.

In terms of short trips from Tokyo,  Hakone  is one of the most easily accessible (about 1 hour by train), which makes a Hakone day trip quite easy to do if you have an extra day in your Tokyo itinerary . However, we highly recommend spending a night or two in  Hakone  to really experience its true magic.

Hakone is known for its natural hot springs, stunning views of Mount Fuji, and traditional Japanese inns, or “ryokan,” making it a great place for travelers seeking relaxation and a taste of traditional Japanese culture. 

You can enjoy a scenic boat ride on Lake Ashi, take a ride on the Hakone Ropeway for panoramic views of the surrounding forest and mountains, or hike on one of the many trails in the area. 

Hakone is also home to several museums and galleries, showcasing a wide variety of contemporary and traditional art. We highly recommend a visit to the Hakone Open Air Museum, famous for its Picasso exhibit!

How to Get There:  If you have a JR Pass, take the JR Tokaido Shinkansen from Tokyo Station or Shinagawa Station to Odawara Station (approximately 35-50 minutes). Once you arrive at Odawara Station, you’ll need to purchase a  Hakone Freepass  (we recommend purchasing  here  beforehand to avoid the queues). Transfer to the Hakone Tozan Line, which will take you to Hakone-Yumoto Station. From Hakone-Yumoto Station, you can use the  Hakone Freepass  which provides unlimited use of various modes of transportation in the Hakone area.

Best Time to Visit:  The best time to visit in terms of weather is during the spring (March to May) or  autumn (September to November) when temperatures are mild and pleasant. We personally loved autumn in Hakone, as the mountains were a blanket of red, yellow, orange, and green hues. It can get very crowded during late March to early April and during the summer months. Avoid weekends, as Hakone is one of the most popular weekend trips from Tokyo for locals.

Recommended Tour:  Mount Fuji and Hakone one day tour from Tokyo

Read More About Hakone:   A Complete Guide to Visiting Hakone, Japan

#2 | Mount Fuji

Churito Pagoda with Mount Fuji in the background and cherry blossom trees during Sakura

Possibly the most popular one day trip from Tokyo is taking a visit to Mount Fuji, a prominent landmark in Japan and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

This majestic mountain is located just 100 kilometers southwest of Tokyo and is the highest peak in Japan at 3,776 meters. The mountain is famous for its symmetrical cone-shaped peak and is often depicted in Japanese art and literature. 

It’s possible to hike to the summit of Mount Fuji during the climbing season, which runs from early July to mid-September, and usually involves an overnight stay in a mountain hut. Otherwise, you can admire the stunning views from afar. 

One of the best places to view Mount Fuji is from the shores of Lake Kawaguchiko, one of the Fuji Five Lakes, or from the famous Churito Pagoda, or from the top of the Mount Fuji Panoramic Ropeway. 

With its breathtaking scenery, a Mount Fuji day trip from Tokyo is one of the most popular things to do in Japan, especially during cherry blossom season.

How to Get There:  Take the Fuji Excursion Limited Express train from Shinjuku Station to Otsuki Station, then transfer to the Fujikyu Railway line to reach stations such as Fuji-Q Highland Station, Kawaguchiko Station or Shimoyoshida Station near Mount Fuji. The Fujikyu Railway line is not covered by the Japan Rail Pass , so you’ll have to purchase a separate ticket. The entire journey takes around 2-3 hours.

Best Time to Visit:  July to September is when the climbing season is open, and the mountain can be hiked. However, Mount Fuji can be visited year-round, and visitors can enjoy the scenic views from various spots around the mountain. Late March to early April is particularly special when the cherry blossoms around the mountain are in full bloom.

Recommended Tour:  Mount Fuji Scenic Spots Day Tour from Tokyo

Red Shinkyo Bridge through the forest in Autumn in Nikko, Japan

One of the best places to go near Tokyo is the stunning historic town of Nikko. Located in the mountains of Tochigi Prefecture, approximately 150 kilometers north of Tokyo, Nikko is a UNESCO World Heritage site with a rich history. 

You can spend the day exploring the colourful Toshogu Shrine, and the breathtaking Kirifuri Waterfall, which is surrounded by lush forests. It’s possible to go hiking through the Nikko National Park or visit the Nikko Edo Village, a recreated Edo period town that provides a glimpse into life in Japan during the 17th-19th centuries. 

With its natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and easy access from Tokyo, Nikko is a popular day trip outside Tokyo for both Japanese locals and international visitors.

How to Get There:  Hop on the JR Tohoku Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Utsunomiya Station, and then transfer to the JR Nikko Line to reach Tobu-Nikko Station (approximately 2-2.5 hours one-way). Once at Tobu-Nikko Station, visitors can take a bus or taxi to the various attractions in the area.

Best Time to Visit:  The best time to plan your Tokyo to Nikko day trip is from spring to autumn when the weather is mild, and the foliage is at its peak during the  autumn  months.

Recommended Tour:  Nikko Cultural Day Tour from Tokyo

#4 | Kanazawa

White and black exterior of Kanazawa Castle at sunset with autumn foliage

For those who are looking for places to visit from Tokyo that are off the main tourist path, then you can’t go past Kanazawa – it’s one of Japan’s true  hidden gems !

Kanazawa is a historic city located on the west coast of Japan’s Honshu Island. The city is known for its beautifully preserved traditional neighborhoods, well-manicured gardens, and exquisite craftwork. 

Exploring the Kenroku-en Garden is a must-do activity in Kanazawa – this was possibly one of the best Japanese gardens we have seen during our multiple trips to Japan. It’s widely considered one of the three most beautiful gardens in Japan.

Other things to do in Kanazawa include visiting the Kanazawa Castle, a stunning example of Edo period architecture, visiting the Omicho Market, and wandering around the Higashi Chaya district, with its picturesque streets lined with old teahouses that are now home to souvenir shops and cafes. 

How to Get There:  Take the Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Kanazawa Station. The journey takes approximately 2.5-3 hours. Once at Kanazawa Station, visitors can take a bus or taxi to the various attractions in the area.

Best Time to Visit:  The best time to visit Kanazawa is during spring and  autumn  when the weather is mild, and the foliage is at its peak during the autumn months.

#5 | Kawagoe

Former castle at Kawagoe Little Edo in town Japan, one of the most well preserved Edo-architecture to visit on a day trip from Tokyo

If you’re looking for a taste of “old” Japan, then you should consider a day trip to Kawagoe. This charming little town has some of the most well-preserved Edo-era architecture, quaint streets, local handicrafts, and great food. 

One of the highlights of Kawagoe is the Kura no Machi district, which features rows of historic storehouses that have been converted into shops selling local goods and souvenirs. Another must-see is the Toki no Kane bell tower, which has been ringing out the hours for over 400 years. 

If you’re a foodie, be sure to try the town’s specialty snack, sweet potato fries! They’re absolutely delicious. All in all, Kawagoe is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, and it’s one of the best day trips near Tokyo as it’s located just an hour outside of the city.

How to Get There:  If you wish to use a Japan Rail Pass , you can hop on the JR Saikyo Line from Shinjuku Station to Kawagoe Station in about 30-40 minutes. Once you arrive at Kawagoe Station, it’s just a short walk to the town center.

Best Time to Visit:  In my opinion, the best time to go is during the fall season, around October and November. The weather is cool and crisp, and the  autumn  foliage is absolutely stunning. The town is also less crowded during this time.

#6 | Yokohama

People shopping at the famous Red Brick House in Yokohama Port - a great place to visit from Tokyo

If you’re looking for a fun but slightly more unusual day trip from Tokyo, you should definitely check out Yokohama. It’s just a quick train ride away, and there’s so much to see and do in this eclectic and vibrant city. 

One of the highlights of Yokohama is the waterfront area, where you can take a stroll along the scenic promenade, visit the Osanbashi Pier for some amazing views of the harbor, and even take a ride on the giant Ferris wheel at Cosmo World amusement park. 

If you fancy yourself as a bit of a foodie, then you won’t want to miss the famous Chinatown district, which is the largest in Japan and offers some fantastic dishes to try. 

For the culture buffs, check out the beautiful Sankeien Garden, which features traditional Japanese architecture and stunning seasonal foliage.

How to Get There:  Getting to Yokohama from Tokyo is super easy via JR lines. Catch a train from Tokyo Station on the JR Tokaido Line, and it’ll take you there in around 30-40 minutes. Once you arrive at Yokohama Station, you can easily get around the city on foot or by using the local buses or trains. If you’re heading to the waterfront area, you can even take a water taxi for a unique and scenic experience.

Best Time to Visit:  Yokohama can get very crowded during peak tourist season, which is from late March to early April and during the summer months. To avoid the crowds, consider visiting during the off-season or on weekdays.

#7 | Mount Takao 

Top of Cable Car Peak of Mount Takao viewpoint overlooking surrounding town near Tokyo in Japan

If you’re looking for a fun outdoor adventure near Tokyo, you’ve got to check out Mount Takao. This place is one of those slightly “off the radar” places to visit around Tokyo, that will be sure to leave you speechless.

It’s just an hour train ride away, and it’s one of the best places to go hiking in the area. The hike up to the summit is challenging but doable, and the views from the top are absolutely breathtaking. Plus, there are tons of different trails to choose from depending on your fitness level, so it’s great for both novice and experienced hikers alike. 

Along the way, you’ll pass by beautiful forests, waterfalls, and there’s even a monkey park where you can see some cute Japanese macaques up close. Alternatively, if you don’t feel like hiking all the way up to the summit, you can take a cable car or chairlift from the station to the halfway point. From there, it’s just a short hike to the summit.

How to Get There:  Head to Shinjuku Station take the Keio-Takao Line to Takaosanguchi Station (not covered by JR Pass). The journey takes about an hour and costs around 390 yen each way. Once you arrive at Takaosanguchi Station, you’ll be right at the base of the mountain and can start your hike right away or jump on the cable car. Alternatively, if you want to use your JR Pass most of the way, you can catch the JR Chuo Rapid Line from Tokyo or Shinjuku Station to Takao Station, then transfer onto the Keio Line to Takaosanguchi Station.

Best Time to Visit:  The best time to visit is definitely during the fall season, when the leaves on the trees start to change color, and the entire mountain is covered in a beautiful blanket of red, orange, and yellow hues. Plus, the weather is generally mild and comfortable for hiking.

#8 | Hitachi Seaside Park

People wandering through red flowering Kochia plants blankets a hill at Hitachi Seaside Park near Tokyo

One of the best side trips from Tokyo for nature-lovers is a visit to the Hitachi Seaside Park. 

One of the park’s main attractions is the huge field of blue nemophila flowers, which bloom in late April and early May and create a stunning blue carpet across the landscape. Another great reason to visit is to see the bright red Kochia balls in late October to early November.

There are also plenty of other flowers and plants to enjoy throughout the park, as well as walking trails and bike paths that wind through the gardens. Hitachi Seaside Park is one of the best places to visit with kids, as there’s a playground and a Ferris wheel that offers great views of the park and the surrounding coastline. There are also plenty of food stalls and restaurants to grab a delicious snack.

How to Get There:  Take the train from Tokyo Station to Katsuta Station (about 80 minutes ride), then transfer to the Ibaraki Kotsu Bus which will take you directly to the park (about 20 minutes).

Opening Hours:  9:30 am to 5 pm (hours may vary seasonally)

Entrance Fee:  450 yen

Best Time to Visit:  The best time to visit Hitachi Seaside Park really depends on what you’re hoping to see and experience. The park is open year-round, and each season offers something unique and special.

In the spring (late April to early May), the park’s famous nemophila flowers are in full bloom, creating a stunning sea of blue that is truly breathtaking. This is definitely the most popular time to visit, so be prepared for crowds.

In the fall (September to November), the park’s foliage starts to change color, with the grass and leaves taking on shades of red, orange, and yellow. It’s a beautiful time to visit, and the cooler temperatures make for a comfortable day outside.

In the winter (December to February), the park is decorated with millions of LED lights, creating a magical winter wonderland. There’s an ice skating rink, a snow sledding hill, and other seasonal activities to enjoy.

Recommended Tour:  Oarai Isosaki Shrine and Hitachi Seaside Park Tour from Tokyo

#9 | Izu Peninsula

Buddist Statues on Omuro Mountain Shizuoka overlooking Ito City on Izu Peninsula in Japan

The Izu Peninsula is a true  hidden gem in Japan  that is often overlooked by tourists, but it’s definitely worth a visit if you’re looking for some off the beaten path places to explore. One of the main attractions of the area is the hot springs, which are said to have healing properties. You can relax in the hot water while enjoying the stunning views of the ocean and mountains.

If you’re into nature and hiking, then the Izu Peninsula is a great place to visit from Tokyo. There are many scenic hiking trails that will take you through forests and mountains, past waterfalls and rivers, and along the coastline. One popular trail is the Jogasaki Coast, which offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.

For a great view of the Jogasaki Coastline and surrounding Amagi Mountains, you can hike up to the top of Mount Omuro (or take the chair lift). Mount Omuro is a grass-covered, conical-shaped mountain formed by a volcano thousands of years ago. From the top, you can walk around the rim of the now-extinct volcanic crater.

How to Get There:  Hop on the JR Tokaido Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Atami Station (approx. 40 minutes). Then transfer to the Izu Kyuko Line, which will take you to various destinations on the peninsula. 

Best Time to Visit:  The Izu Peninsula is a popular destination in the summer months, which is a great time for hiking.

#10 | Matsumoto

Matsumoto Castle surrounded by cherry blossoms in Spring makes a great day trip from Tokyo

Matsumoto is a charming city located in Nagano Prefecture, Japan. It’s known for the spectacular Matsumoto Castle, one of the few remaining original castles in Japan, and the main reason why most people visit Matsumoto. But there’s more to Matsumoto than just the castle! 

The city has a lively arts and culture scene, with numerous museums, galleries, and theaters showcasing local and international talent. The surrounding natural scenery is also breathtaking. If you visit during the winter, you’ll get a glimpse of the stunning Japanese Alps in the distance. 

The local cuisine in Matsumoto is also out of this world (but that’s not hard in Japan, as there seems to be good food everywhere – one of the reasons we love Japan so much!). Matsumoto’s specialties include soba noodles and Shinshu beef. 

With so much to offer, Matsumoto is totally underrated and in our opinion, one of the best Tokyo day trips for culture and history buffs, and those looking to  get off the beaten path .

How to Get There:  You can take the JR Limited Express Azusa or Super Azusa train from Shinjuku Station directly to Matsumoto Station, which takes about 2.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take the JR Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Nagano Station and transfer to the JR Shinano Line, which will take you to Matsumoto in about 1.5 hours.

Best Time to Visit:  Spring (March to May) and  Autumn  (September to November) are both popular times to visit. Cherry blossoms bloom in Matsumoto in early April. The Snowy season (December to February) is a great time to visit the nearby ski resorts and enjoy the winter wonderland scenery.

#11 | Ashikaga Flower Park

People standing under Weeping purple Wisteria Tunnel at Ashikaga Flower Park near Tokyo in Japan

Ashikaga Flower Park is one of the prettiest tourist attractions near Tokyo and a must-visit destination for nature lovers and garden enthusiasts. 

The park is famous for its breathtaking wisteria displays, which bloom from late April to mid-May. The wisteria tunnel, which stretches for almost 100 meters, is one of the park’s main attractions and is a popular spot for taking photos. Visitors can stroll through tunnels of wisteria blossoms in a variety of colors, including pink, white, and purple. It’s truly a magical experience that shouldn’t be missed!

Aside from the wisteria, the park is also home to a variety of other seasonal flowers that bloom at all different times of the year, including roses, hydrangeas, and cosmos. The floral displays throughout the park change with the seasons, so visitors are always treated to a stunning display.

During winter, which is from late November to early February, the park is decorated with millions of LED lights, creating a magical winter wonderland. Visitors can see light displays of flowers, trees, and even a replica of the Eiffel Tower. The park also holds various events and illuminations throughout the year, so it’s always worth checking their schedule to see what’s happening.

Overall, Ashikaga Flower Park is a wonderful destination for a day trip from Tokyo, and is sure to leave visitors feeling inspired and rejuvenated.

How to Get There:  Getting to Ashikaga Flower Park from Tokyo is quite easy by train. Hop on the JR Ryomo Line from Tokyo Station to Ashikaga Station, which takes about 90 minutes. From Ashikaga Station, there is a shuttle bus o the park, which is about a 15-minute ride away.

Opening Hours:  10 am to 5 pm, year round

Entrance Fee:  Entry cost varies throughout the year, from 500 yen up to 2100 yen during peak flower season.

Best Time to Visit:  This depends on what you want to see. The famous wisteria flowers typically bloom in late April to mid-May. But the park has other flowers that bloom throughout the year. If you want to avoid the crowds, it’s best to visit the park on a weekday, as weekends can be very busy during peak bloom season.

Have we missed a spot?  Can you recommend any other great places to visit from Tokyo for other readers to check out, let us know in the comments below!

Ready to Plan Your Trip to Japan?

We hope this list of Tokyo day trips has given you some inspiration for your planning trip to Japan . For more information to help you plan your own trip, check out these other helpful  Japan travel blog  articles:

More Japan Travel Guides

View more resources & tips to help plan your japan trip.

25 Beautiful photos to inspire you to travel to Japan in Fall (Autumn)

Feeling inspired?  Here are  10 amazing destinations you must add to your Travel Bucket List !

Planning a trip soon? Here’s a list of the websites we use for booking our trips:

  • Skyscanner  for the best flight deals
  • Booking.com for the best rates on hotels
  • HomeAway  for the best price on apartment and home rentals
  • Rentalcars.com  for quick and easy car rentals
  • Luxury Escapes  | Expedia for luxury package holiday deals and tours
  • Get Your Guide  | Klook | Viator  for booking day tours and attraction tickets
  • Tourradar  for a wide selection of multi-day tours
  • Safety Wing for the most comprehensive worldwide travel insurance

Did You Know?  We use ads and affiliate links on this website. When you click through and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you), that helps us pay the bills to keep running this blog as a free resource. We only recommend products we use ourselves. If you’re planning to book a trip soon, please consider clicking through the links above, so that we can continue to provide free travel guides, just like this one! Please see our Disclosure Policy for more details.

Share This Post:

Get Access to our FREE Travel Resources Library!

Subscribe and get exclusive access to loads of printable planning checklists, maps, itineraries, destination bucket lists, and more!

You’ll Also Love

2024 Bucket List destinations

Spain Bucket List: 215 Spanish Experiences That Will Blow Your Mind!

Trending now.

30+ Hidden Gems in Japan: The best Japan Off the Beaten Path Spots to Discover

  • Destinations
  • Travel Guides
  • Travel Itineraries
  • Travel Tips
  • Accommodation

Join Our Newsletter

And get exclusive access to our FREE Travel Planning Resources!

  • Work With Us
  • Disclosure Policy
  • Terms & Conditions
  • Privacy Policy

Copyright © 2024 Bucket List Seekers

  • Things to Do
  • Tourist Spots & Attractions

The Top 10 Day Trip Destinations Within 2 Hours of Tokyo

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

  • tsunagu Japan

Tokyo is filled with plenty of unmissable sightseeing locations. But did you know that rich natural landscapes and buildings brimming with atmosphere can be found by riding the train just 1 to 2 hours away from the city? Here are 10 popular day trip destinations for scenery and experiences unlike any you'll get in Tokyo.

Check out our writers’ top Japan travel ideas!

This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

1. Kamakura (Kanagawa Prefecture)

Kamakura is very easy to access from the city center and is located just an hour from Tokyo, making it a popular location for a casual visit. The town is overflowing with nature, being surrounded by mountains and the sea, and is home to beautiful flowers and scenery that change with each of the four seasons. 

Kamakura was one of the former capitals of Japan in ancient times, and more than 100 Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples remain today. Some places not to be missed are Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, known as a power spot where people wish for luck and good fortune in business, and Hokokuji Temple, famous for the magical bamboo grove inside its grounds. In addition, Komachi Street (Komachi-dori), which runs between Kamakura Station and Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, is lined with approximately 250 shops and restaurants, many of which sell grab-and-go food items that can be enjoyed while strolling along the street. Kamakura is lined with both historical buildings and new trendy cafes, making it an attractive destination for a broad range of people of all ages.

Access from Tokyo Station: 12 stops on the JR Yokosuka Line (no transfers) Time required:  Around 1 hour Fare: 935 yen Highlights: Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Hokokuji Temple, Komachi Street, the Great Buddha of Kamakura, Enoshima 

Note: Kamakura’s city center isn’t very large, and you can easily explore the area on foot, but if you want to see the ocean around Enoshima, it takes about 25 minutes from Kamakura Station on the Enoden (Enoshima Electric Railway). If you want to enjoy plenty of what Kamakura has to offer, from the history and local cuisine to the scenery at Enoshima, it’s suggested to arrive early in the day.

For more things to do in Kamakura, see our article  15 of the Best Photogenic Sightseeing Spots in Kamakura That You Have to Visit .

2. Nikko (Tochigi Prefecture)

Nikko is a small city surrounded by the mountains of Tochigi Prefecture. There are a great number of historic buildings in Nikko, including the three shrines and temples which make up the World Heritage Site known as “Shrines and Temples of Nikko.” The most famous among them is the magnificent Nikko Toshogu Shrine, the grounds of which are home to 55 stunning structures, including 8 national treasures and 34 Important Cultural Properties of Japan. Each is decorated with Japanese lacquer and brilliant colors, with numerous carvings of stunning beauty decorating the buildings. 

The area is also blessed with beautiful natural scenery such as waterfalls and wetlands and is home to many popular outdoor spots including Kegon Falls, Lake Chuzenji, and Mount Nantai. In addition, Nikko’s Kinugawa area is known as one of the most prominent hot spring areas in the Kanto region.

Access from Tokyo Station:  Transfer from the JR Tohoku Shinkansen Line to the JR Nikko Line at Utsunomiya Station Time required:  Around 2 hours Fare: 5,150 yen Highlights: Nikko Toshogu Shrine, Kegon Falls, Lake Chuzenji, Kinugawa Onsen

Note: Nikko is about 3 - 7 degrees (Celsius) cooler than Tokyo. Even in summer, the mornings and evenings here can be chilly, so it’s recommended to bring a light jacket. It gets particularly cold here in winter with temperatures dropping below freezing, so be prepared with appropriate clothing. 

For more things to do in Nikko, see our article  13 Sightseeing Attractions You Won't Want to Miss When Visiting Nikko! .

3. Mount Fuji (Shizuoka Prefecture / Yamanashi Prefecture)

When most people think of Japan, they think of Mount Fuji. Mount Fuji is the tallest mountain in Japan at 3,776 meters in elevation and was registered as a World Heritage Site in 2013.  The very same Mount Fuji can be reached from Tokyo in about 2.5 hours. There are many tourist attractions surrounding Mount Fuji, so in addition to climbing the mountain, it can also be fun to visit for the purpose of enjoying the sights of the whole area. 

The appearance of Mount Fuji changes with the season, time of day, and even the viewing angle. For example, on a windless day, you can see “inverse Fuji” reflected on a calm water surface, or you may see “red Fuji” when the snow-capped Mount Fuji is stained red by the rising or setting sun. Try enjoying the views of Mount Fuji on these different occasions.

Access from Tokyo: transfer from JR Chuo Line Chuo Special Rapid to Fujikyuko Line at Otsuki Station Time required: around 2 hours and 40 minutes Fare: 2,560 yen Highlights: Fuji Five Lakes (Lake Yamanaka, Lake Kawaguchi, Lake Motosu, Lake Saiko, and Lake Shoji)

Note: book a mountain hut when spending a night on the mountain. There are some people who take a day to climb the mountain from dawn, but it is not recommended due to problems such as altitude sickness. If you are going to climb Mount Fuji, it is recommended to prepare sufficiently before climbing.

For more information about Mount Fuji, see our article  The Ultimate Travel Guide to Mt. Fuji .

Check out our writers’ top Japan travel ideas!

4. Hakone (Kanagawa Prefecture)

Hakone is a tourist destination that has long been known as an onsen town. This area has many charms, such as sublime nature, spots filled with history, and art galleries. Many events are held in Hakone that can be enjoyed throughout the year, beginning with the Hakone Ekiden, a race that signifies the New Year for many Japanese people. There are also many means of transportation in the area, such as the mountain railway, cable cars, and buses, making it an exceedingly easy place to get around while traveling between the many sightseeing spots. 

The area around Hakone-Yumoto Station, the gateway to Hakone, is a hot spring resort town, and there are many restaurants and souvenir shops here as well. There are several hot spring facilities that can be visited during the day, making it convenient for those who don’t have time to stay overnight or just want to visit one more onsen before finishing their trip. 

At Owakudani, one of Hakone’s most iconic tourist attractions, visitors can get a spectacular view of white smoke rising up from the rugged terrain. The local specialty there, "kuro tamago," are a boiled eggs with pitch-black shells, made by cooking the eggs directly in the hot spring for 60 minutes. There is a statue called “Enmei Jizoson” at Owakudani which is a jizo (guardian deity) of prolonged life and child-rearing. For this reason, it is said that eating the kuro tamago will prolong your life.

Access from Tokyo Station: T ransfer from the JR Tokaido Shinkansen Line to the Odakyu Limited Express at Odawara Station Time required: Around 1 hour Fare: 3,800 yen

Highlights: Hakone-Yumoto Station area, Owakudani, Hakone Ropeway

For more things to do, see our article on the  30 Best Things to Do in Hakone .

5. Izu (Shizuoka Prefecture)

Izu has a warm climate year-round and is rich in nature. Here you can enjoy beautiful views of the sea with Mount Fuji in the background, gorgeous sunsets, the refreshing nature of the Izu Kogen area, and seasonal flowers including the Kawazu Sakura (the earliest-blooming cherry blossoms on Honshu), narcissus, and nanohana flowers. Other famous sights include Shuzenji Temple, namesake of the Shuzenji Onsen where it is located; Izu Granpal Park, and Lake Ippeki. Families with children might enjoy the Shimoda Kaichu Aquarium or trying their hands at local tea harvesting. Taking a leisurely stroll around the area's many onsen towns, beloved by Japan’s literary masters, while soaking up the traditional atmosphere is also highly recommended. You can even wish for a boost to your financial luck at the local power spot, the “Toi Gold Mine.” 

As the region is rich in the natural bounty of both the sea and the mountains, more than a few tourists also come to Izu just to enjoy its local gourmet cuisine, made using local fresh ingredients.

Access from Tokyo Station:  Transfer from the JR Shinkansen Line to the Ito Line at Atami Station Time required: 1.5+ hours Fare: 4,070 yen Highlights: Shuzen-ji Temple, Izu Granpal Park, Lake Ippeki, Shimoda Kaichu Aquarium, Toi Gold Mine

Note: Izu is divided into four large areas: Higashi Izu, Minami Izu, Nishi Izu, and Naka Izu. Depending on the locations you want to visit, you won’t be able to see everything in one day, so it’s suggested to decide on your destinations and route ahead of time.

6. Atami (Shizuoka Prefecture)

Atami is the gateway to the southern tip of Shizuoka Prefecture, the Izu Peninsula. It has a long history as a popular destination for its onsen and resorts. Atami is surrounded by rich natural landscape, and the vast open ocean stretches out before your eyes. It is a wonderful place for swimming in summer, viewing colorful foliage in the autumn, and admiring plum and cherry blossoms from winter into spring. There are also fireworks festivals held in Atami throughout the year, so no matter which season you visit, there is always something to see. 

Atami Onsen was apparently even favored by the legendary Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu, founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate (1600 - 1868), and is an onsen that’s said to have been opened back in ancient times. This special place, which has also been loved by literary masters through the years, is a hot spring that Japanese people continue to visit to this day, thanks to its excellent water quality. In front of Atami Station, there is a footbath supplied by a natural hot spring known as “Ieyasu no Yu.” Anyone can use it for free, and it is always overflowing with visitors. 

Access from Tokyo Station: 4 stops on the JR Shinkansen (no transfer) Time required: Around 45 minutes Fare: 4,270 yen (reserved ticket) or 3,740 yen (unreserved ticket) Highlights: Atami Onsen, Atami Plum Garden, Atami Sun Beach

7. Yokohama (Kanagawa Prefecture)

Yokohama is a melting pot of Japanese, Western, Chinese, and other cultures. The city is particularly popular among Japanese people and was chosen as the most desired place to live in 2018. The city has great access from Tokyo, located within a 30-minute train ride from Shinjuku, Tokyo, and Shinagawa stations, and is home to many people who work in Tokyo. 

With modern and retro buildings standing side-by-side at the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse, authentic Chinese cuisine at Yokohama Chinatown, aquariums, art galleries, and shopping malls, Yokohama is the perfect spot for a good time on your day off. It’s also a popular date-night destination thanks to the romantic scene created by the evening light-up display at the port.

Access from Tokyo Station: 4 stops on the JR Tokaido Main Line (no transfer) Time required:  Around 25 minutes Fare: 480 yen Highlights: Minato Mirai, Yamashita Park, Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse, Yokohama Chinatown

For more places to go in Yokohama, see our article  16 Photogenic Spots in Yokohama That You Have to Capture on Camera .

8. Mount Takao

You can get to Mount Takao by train from Shinjuku Station in just 50 minutes, making this the closest nature area to Tokyo’s urban center. The mountain is optimal for hiking and there are many climbing trails up to the 599-meter peak. It’s also popular as an easy mountain to climb for beginners due to the cable cars and lifts that run up the mountainside for those who aren't keen on trekking. On the side of the mountain is Takao-san Yakuo-in Yuki-ji Temple, boasting 1200-odd years of history. This is considered one of the three head temples of Kanto, alongside Naritasan Shinsho-ji Temple and Kawasaki Daishi Heiken-ji Temple. 

Since you can do this trek as a day trip, the mountain is bustling with climbers on the weekend. For this reason, those hoping for a more relaxed hike are recommended to make the trip on a weekday. On a clear day, it is even possible to see Mount Fuji from the top. Additionally, at the base of Mount Takao is a hot spring called Gokurakuyu where you can refresh yourself after enjoying a hike.

Access from Tokyo Station:  Transfer from the JR Chuo Line to the Keio Takao Line at Takao Station Time required:  Around 1 hour Fare: 1,070 yen Highlights: Mount Takao’s summit, Yakuo-in Yuki-ji Temple, Gokurakuyu bathhouse

Note: This is an easy mountain to climb for beginners, but it’s suggested to wear practical shoes for walking. There are no garbage bins on the mountain, so be ready to bring any trash back down with you.

9. Chichibu (Saitama Prefecture)

Chichibu, located in the north-west part of Saitama Prefecture, is the most spacious town in the prefecture and is home to many gourmet specialties, tourist spots, and activities in nature. There are many famous historical places here, but among them, Chichibu shrine, Chichibu Imamiya Shrine, and Mitsumine Shrine are particularly known for being power spots. Mitsumine Shrine is famous as a place to go to pray for success in life and fortune in business. 

One particular place worth recommending is Hitsujiyama Park, a great spot to enjoy the natural landscape of Chichibu. This park is located on high ground overlooking the streets of Chichibu and is a popular spot for flower viewing and outings. In April, the cherry blossoms here are in full bloom, while late June to early July is the best time to see the blooming of 10,000 Japanese irises.

Access from Tokyo Station:  Transfer from the JR Ueno-Tokyo Line to Chichibu Railway at Kumagaya Station Time required: 2 hours 45 minutes Fare: 2,050 yen Highlights: Chichibu Shrine, Chichibu Imamiya Shrine, Mitsumine Shrine, Hitsujiyama Park

10. Kawagoe (Saitama Prefecture)

Kawagoe, a flourishing castle town since the Edo Period (1600 - 1868), is a charming town also known as  “Little Edo,” with a historical "kurazukuri-style" streetscape. Just by walking the streets, you will pass many historical spots. Be sure to find the symbol of Kawagoe, “Toki no Kane" (the tower shown in the photo above), charming back alleys, shopping streets, and more. There also are many kimono rental shops in Kawagoe, so another fun thing to do is put on a kimono and talk a leisurely stroll around the streets that are brimming with Edo-period atmosphere. There are also many gourmet spots in town, including a street lined with traditional sweets stores that stretches on for 80 meters, making it a great place to walk and snack at the same time.

Access from Tokyo Station:  Transfer from the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line to the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line at Ikebukuro Station Time required: Around 1 hour Fare: 610 yen Highlights: Toki no Kane, Kawagoe Ichibangai, Taisho-Roman Shopping Street

For some off-the-beaten-path things to do in Kawagoe, check out our article  The Kawagoe Wander Diary: 4 Amazing Places to Add to Your Travel Itinerary .

That’s it for our top 10 day trip destinations that you can reach by train from Tokyo. Put them on the list for your next Japan trip!

If you want to give feedback on any of our articles, you have an idea that you'd really like to see come to life, or you just have a question on Japan, hit us up on our  Facebook ,  Twitter , or  Instagram !

Kanto Feature

The information in this article is accurate at the time of publication.

tsunagu Japan Newsletter

Subscribe to our free newsletter and we'll show you the best Japan has to offer!

Get your Japan discounts here!

  • takaosan yakuoin temple

About the author

tsunagu

Related Articles

Related interests.

  • Otaru canal
  • Umeda sky building
  • Rainbow bridge
  • Tokyo skytree
  • Tokyo tower
  • Imperial Palace
  • World heritage sites

Restaurant Search

Tsunagu japan sns.

Subscribe to the tsunagu Japan Newsletter

Sign up to our free newsletter to discover the best Japan has to offer.

Connect with Japan through tsunagu Japan

Let us introduce you to the best of Japan through our free newsletter: sightseeing spots, delicious food, deep culture, best places to stay, and more!

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

  • Tokyo Cheapo (繁體中文)

5 Easy Bullet Train Trips From Tokyo

Bullet trains are part of the Japanese experience, but if you haven’t got a JR Pass and just want a quick trip from Tokyo, you can always visit one of these popular spots!

shinkansen nagoya aichi japan

Traveling at the speed of light (kind of) is pretty fun, and with a touch of the future, the shinkansen is often on the to-do lists for visitors. They aren’t cheap though, and without the option of early-bird tickets or advance savings that many other countries have, that futuristic luxury definitely comes at a price. If you’re lucky enough to have a JR Pass, then this won’t matter, you can buzz all around Japan like it’s nothing, but if you don’t have one, the old night bus and local trains start to seem like the better option. Despite being created to travel long distances, however, you can still get the bullet-train experience on shorter journeys that don’t cost the earth! Choose from affordable day trips, or head out for a weekend away. We’ve picked out the 5 best shorter bullet train trips from Tokyo that won’t break the bank, starting from just 35 minutes away!

Odawara – Castles and onsen

35 minutes from Tokyo | Direct: 3,220 yen (unreserved, one-way)

Odawara Castle

Most famous for the Odawara Castle, this city is a transport hub with links direct to Hakone and beyond. The castle was built in the 15th century, and although it is not the original, it has been faithfully restored using drawings from the Edo period. The closest castle keep to Tokyo , it’s a great chance to see interesting displays and beautiful views across the city, as well as having lovely cherry blossoms in spring. Food-wise you can head to Odawara Fishing Port to see the local wholesalers and stalls, and enjoy fresh donburi at Odawara Fish Market Den where the owner prepares over 20 different types of rice bowl topped with fish. Tsujimura Botanical Park holds a collection of trees and plants from across the world and makes for a lovely afternoon walk.

Go further: Known as the gateway to Hakone , you can get from Odawara to Hakone-Yumoto on the Odakyu Tozan line (15 minutes) and enjoy the traditional onsen town with its hiking spots, ropeways,  pirate ships and more!

Atami – Fake castles and real views

48 minutes from Tokyo | Direct: 3,670 yen (unreserved, one-way)

Atami hotel

On the northeastern base of the Izu Peninsula, Atami is a medium-sized onsen town with a fake castle, incredible views across Sagami Bay and a sex museum. Peaked your interest? Read on.

Atami is a slightly faded onsen resort once popular with Tokyoites, but holds enough unusual charm to draw in visitors. The ‘castle’ is 100m above sea level and was built in 1959 as a tourist attraction, now featuring displays about the castles of Japan. The castle may be fake, but the views are real, and they’re stunning. There are a number of odd museums around the castle, including a trick art museum, and an explicit ukiyo-e exhibition in the basement. If you would like some more normal art, you can visit the MOA Museum of Art with a combination of Eastern and Western Art including pieces from Ogata Korin, Monet and Rembrandt and a golden tea set from the 16th century.

The town has a ropeway which takes you up to the viewpoints as well as the ‘Treasure House’ aka sex museum, which is worth a trip in itself.

To wash off the slightly weird sex vibes you can head to the main attraction of Atami: the onsen. With plenty to choose from in hotels and ryokan alike, you can enjoy the high-salt-content water as it is drawn from the sea.

Sendai  (Miyagi) – Food and beauty

1.5 hours from Tokyo | Direct: 11,200 yen (reserved, one-way)

Sendai Mediatheque

Filled with plenty of shrines and temples, Sendai is an ancient city with plenty of sightseeing spots based around the city’s founder: Date Masamune. The Sendai City Museum gives a solid history of his leadership and legacy as does the Sendai Castle. For some cultural trips, visit the stunning Osaki Hachimangu, one of the most beautiful shrines going, and the Rinnoji Temple is worth a visit too (photo above).

Known as the city of trees, you can stroll down the Jozenji-dori Avenue, which is lined (fittingly) with trees and is filled with cute cafes and shops to enjoy, as well as the acclaimed modern architecture of the Sendai Mediatheque building. If you’re able to spend an evening in the city, you can enjoy the lively entertainment district of Kokubuncho with all its bars and slightly seedy joints to explore.

Food specialties of Sendai include grilled beef tongue, aka gyutan, which is a must-try for meat eaters, and is sold at over 100 restaurants in the city. For fresh produce and treats you can visit the Asaichi Market, nicknamed Sendai’s Kitchen, which is only a few minutes’ walk from the West Exit of the station. The city has a Loople Bus which lets you hop on and off across the city at all the main sites, and can be used with the all-day pass.

Go further:   Nearby are two of Japan’s most famous animal spots: Cat Island and Fox Village. For the former, you can travel to Tashirojima by catching the local train to Ishinomaki and then the ferry across to the Island. For the Fox Village , hop off at Shiroishzao Station on your bullet train trip and get a taxi or bus (rare) to the village in the mountains! You can also head to Matsushima, which is only an hour from the city and has one of the three most scenic views in Japan.

Niigata City – Beautiful parks and distant islands

2 hours from Tokyo | Direct: 10,050 yen (unreserved, one-way)

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

Niigata is an adventurer’s dream of Japan, with ski resorts, onsen, and the smallest mountain range in Japan nearby—not to mention it’s the home of sake, so there’s plenty to do here! Niigata City is home to Hakusan Park and Shrine (above), which is famed for its cherry blossoms as well as plenty of historical buildings well worth exploring. Right in the center of the city is one of the prefecture’s largest lagoons—Toyonagata—which makes for relaxing walks or bike rides of an afternoon.

The museums and galleries could keep you occupied for weeks, with plenty of local artists and potters remembered through extensive collections. You can visit some of the many popular onsen resorts nearby on the local steam train SL Ban’etsu Monogatari and enjoy a relaxing soak in nature. For safety at sea make sure you pay a visit to the Minato Inari Shrine, where sailors and their families have prayed since the Edo period .

Go further: For a little adventure, you can travel to Sado Island, a land of political exile, cedar forests and gold mining. You can enjoy plenty of unique cultural experiences like a ride in the taraibune (barrel-like boats used for negotiating tricky shorelines) and traditional dance. You can catch a ferry to Sado from Niigata throughout the year.

Kanazawa – Little Kyoto and ninja temples

2.5 hours from tokyo | direct: 14,120 yen (reserved, one-way).

Higashi Chaya District Kanazawa - tokyo to kanazawa itinerary

Once Japan’s second largest city (after Kyoto), Kanazawa was protected from most air raids in the Second World War and is therefore one of the best-preserved cities you can visit in Japan. Nicknamed Little Kyoto , it is home to a wealth of arts and craft traditions as well as stunning buildings, shrines and temples. Originally a castle town,  it remains an important trade hub and is the capital of Ishikawa prefecture. Possibly the most famous sightseeing spot is Kenrokuen Garden: one of the three most beautiful sculptured gardens in all of Japan. For an unusual temple trip you can visit Myoruji, aka Ninjadera, a temple fitted with numerous traps and tricks to outwit the enemies of the past as it was really a disguised military outpost. There are a variety of well-preserved districts in the town including a samurai district and three teahouse districts once filled with performing geisha (pictured above). There is a busy market near the station called Omicho Market which is a great spot for street food and sweets as well as the castle which is currently being reconstructed.

Go Further:   Not too far from Kanazawa lies Shirakawago , the incredibly scenic mountainous region filled with snow-proof thatched houses, untouched by modernity. You can catch an (almost) hourly bus from Kanazawa which takes 75 minutes and costs 1,850 yen, or a return for 3,290 yen.

  • Bullet train

Get our Tokyo Cheapo Hacks direct to your inbox

Tokyo Sumo Guide: When and Where to Experience Sumo Wrestling

Tokyo Sumo Guide: When and Where to Experience Sumo Wrestling

Renting a Pocket Wifi Router in Japan: The Best Options

Renting a Pocket Wifi Router in Japan: The Best Options

Narita Airport to Tokyo

Narita Airport to Tokyo

Asakusa: A Guide to Tokyo's Traditional Center

Asakusa: A Guide to Tokyo's Traditional Center

The Suica Card in 2024: How and Where to Buy Tokyo's IC Card

The Suica Card in 2024: How and Where to Buy Tokyo's IC Card

Hakone Day Trip from Tokyo

Hakone Day Trip from Tokyo

How and Where to Buy Shinkansen Tickets

How and Where to Buy Shinkansen Tickets

Famous running man sign at Ebisu-bashi, Osaka

Tokyo to Osaka: Fast and Creative Ways of Getting There

Full guide to taking the bullet train, buses, and low-cost flights.

hiwatari takao fire

Tokyo Events This Week: Bargain Markets and a Fire-Walking Festival

Tokyo events for Monday, March 4 to Sunday, March 10, 2024.

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

New Video! Suica Card in 2024: How and Where to Buy

We cover where and how to purchase Suica cards, digital Suica, Welcome Suica, and Pasmo Passport.

Cherry blossoms in the foreground and boaters on the lake in Ueno Park in the background

Final Forecast: 2024 Tokyo Cherry Blossom Dates

Here's when to see the pink stuff.

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

New Video! Tokyo Sumo Guide: When and Where to Experience Sumo Wrestling

If there’s one thing people know about Japan, it’s sumo wrestling.

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

The Best Tokyo Events, by Month

Find out what's happening in Tokyo throughout the year — and when to go.

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

7 Romantic Tokyo Valentine's Day Ideas

Chocolate ramen, boat cruises and more.

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

Kawazu-zakura: Where To See Early-Blooming Cherry Blossoms

Find out where and when to see the gorgeous "winter cherry blossoms" — blooming now!

Snow mountains and town in Echigo Yuzawa.

Easy Snowboarding Day Trip: Tokyo to Gala Yuzawa Resort

Winter's not over yet. You can be on the slopes in under 90 minutes.

students carrying boxes of plants and knick-knacks as they move into a dorm

Close without accepting

  • Meet the Team
  • Work with Us
  • Czech Republic
  • Netherlands
  • Switzerland
  • Scandinavia
  • Philippines
  • South Korea
  • New Zealand
  • South Africa
  • Budget Travel
  • Work & Travel
  • The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
  • Travel Resources
  • How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Asia » 10 AMAZING Day Trips to Take from Tokyo | 2024 Guide

10 AMAZING Day Trips to Take from Tokyo | 2024 Guide

Imagine this; You wake up in your Tokyo hotel room to a chorus of cars honking during the morning commute, towering skyscrapers, with just a hint of smog in the air. You decide to grab your daypack and make your way to the subway station. After a brief one-hour train ride, you suddenly find yourself amidst the serene mountains, where birdsong fills the crisp air, and a sense of peace washes over you.

Tokyo is the world’s largest city, home to a whopping 37.5 million people, and there is absolutely no shortage of things to do here. But, if you’re anything like me, spending a week or more in this city can get a bit overwhelming ; the crowds, the heat, the traffic. Trust me, you’ll end up needing a break from this chaotic metropolis.

After spending some time in the city, backpacking and hitchhiking around its surroundings, I’ve compiled the ULTIMATE list of the 10 best day trips from Tokyo .

From ancient towns, waterfalls, and beaches to encounters with snow monkeys, ascending the iconic Mount Fuji, and even the thrill of roller coasters, there’s a world of adventure right on Tokyo’s doorstep. Let’s delve into it friends!

Girl takes selfie while taking public transport in Tokyo, Japan.

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.

Getting Around Tokyo & Beyond

Half-day trips in tokyo, full-day trips in tokyo, final thoughts on day trips from tokyo.

I remember my first trip to Tokyo , arriving at the Shinjuku station, Japan’s most infamous and iconic station.

I hopped off the train with my backpack and only a few hours of sleep under my belt and found myself frozen. People were swarming around me like bees, becoming engulfed in the organized chaos that is a Tokyo train station.

Tokyo Subway map

After a few moments of shock, I headed over to the ticket machines to try to get to my hostel, as I hadn’t yet picked up a Japanese SIM card . I took one look at the map and started to cry… (admittedly partially from sleep deprivation).

Seriously, just take one look at the Tokyo metro map. It looks like an alien with a few dozen different colored tentacles.

In all seriousness, though, it’s pretty freakin’ confusing trying to navigate. I’ll try to explain it in simple terms for you so you don’t end up in confused tears like me…

Getting Around Tokyo

The Tokyo metro network consists of lines managed by several different companies. That means you can’t just buy one ticket and ride the metro wherever you want. There are the JR lines, the two subway networks, and several private lines as well.

Sound confusing? Well, it is.

The good news is that most Japanese people are super friendly and helpful, and will step in to save your dazed and confused ass, have Google Translate handy if you can though as many Japanese don’t speak much English. They’ll do a much better job of explaining things than I could.

Girl stands in front of train in Tokyo, Japan with her backpack on.

Even though it’s a bit tricky to navigate, the Tokyo metro system is pretty awesome and will get you everywhere you need to go in the city.

There are plenty of  bus lines  as well, but those are even more difficult for the rookie to figure out.

Ubers and Taxis are available in Tokyo, but they’ll break the bank… try to stay away from them if you’re trying to do Japan on a budget.

Traveling by Train

I’m sure you’ve heard of Japan’s amazing high-speed trains by now. Japan definitely has one of the most impressive rail networks in the world, so traveling to and from Tokyo by train is a great option. Trains here are fast, comfortable, and incredibly punctual.

Japanese crowded subway station as a train passes by.

But train travel here can be a bit complicated. I always look at Google Maps for detailed and up-to-date info on the trains. Google Maps provides you with super useful info such as:

  • Which platform the train is departing from and which exit to take (incredibly helpful as Shinjuku station has over 50 platforms and 200 exits)
  • The total cost of the trip
  • Whether or not your trip is covered by the JR pass
  • Whether or not the train has air conditioning
  • Best car number for most efficient entry/exit

PRO TIP : Get an IC card. I can’t believe I spent a week backpacking in Japan without one, grappling with the confusing ticket machines EVERY TIME I tried to take a train.

Trust me, grab an IC card like Suica, Pasmo, or Icoca.

A photo of the Suica IC card on apple wallet to pay for Japanese subway tickets.

You can add them to your Apple Wallet in a matter of seconds. Just tap when you enter and tap again when you exit, and your fare is automatically deducted. (You can use them at convenience stores and some grocery stores too, which is great if your debit card has foreign transaction fees).

Of course, bus travel is always an option to get to and from Tokyo as well. Since it’s the capital city and all, you can catch buses heading in all directions out of Tokyo. One bus company that I personally used is Willer Express .

I highly recommend checking out some of our best Japan travel tips , so that you get the most out of your experience while keeping your budget in check.

When you’re in Tokyo, no time goes to waste! Even if you’ve only got a weekend or a few days on your hands to explore, many memorable trips are just an hour away, or even less, from the city. 

These short Tokyo day trips are fun and unforgettable, and best of all, they only take half a day! So you’ve got plenty of time to visit all the best places in Tokyo  as well as the surroundings.

Yokohama, Japan’s second-largest city with a vibrant population of over 3 million, is a perfect blend of Oceanside charm and city life, also featuring amazing Chinese food (we’ll get into that in a moment).

This is an ideal day trip for those craving a city break within their city break, as it’s a lot less of an intense place than Tokyo itself. It’s also a neat place to stay too with a few different areas in Yokohama to choose from.

Here you’ll find not one but two ramen museums—the Cup Noodle Museum and the Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum —where you can make your own ramen and learn about the history of this famous dish. It’s actually a really fun experience, one I thoroughly enjoyed.

Momofuku Ando Instant Ramen Museum

The city is home to the world’s largest Chinatown , which was founded in 1860 by the first immigrants from China. Don’t hesitate to try street foods like xiaolongbao, char siu bao, shu mai, and bubble tea.

Also, check out Yamashita Park with breezy views of the Port of Yokohama or shop at the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse. For a perfect day’s end, catch the sunset from the top of the Cosmo Clock 21 Ferris Wheel, once the world’s tallest at 107.5 meters.

Nicknamed ‘Little Edo,” Kawagoe is a city perfectly preserved in the past. It’s a town lined with traditional buildings converted into adorable restaurants, cafes, and shops.

You’ll know you’re in the right place when you spot the Toki no Kane bell tower , an unmistakable structure standing at a height of 16 meters. The bell chimes on four occasions daily, sounding at 6 a.m., noon, 3 p.m., and 6 p.m.

The bell tower that towers over the Edo period town, Kawagoe, Japan.

You can find numerous excellent lunch sets that offer traditional and reasonably priced options, with eel as their specialty.

NOTE : Think twice before ordering eel (unagi) as it’s critically endangered. There are many other, more ethical choices of fish you can make.

Make sure to check out the Kawago shrine as well. There you can catch a Tai to find out your fortune, cool off with the refreshing wind chimes in summer, or take part in some incredible Japanese festivals .

Enoshima is a top Tokyo beach spot, with sandy shores for lounging and a cool island to explore.

You can easily walk from the train station to the island, where you can visit shrines and Japanese gardens, or even chill in the caves on the other side. Just a heads-up, there are some stairs, but you can also take a boat around the island.

A sunset over the coastal town of Enoshima, Japan.

This rocky island has lots of fun stuff to see and great views, making it a sweet escape from the city, especially in the summer .

During this time, there are fun fireworks and events held by the sea. But be warned! In the summer, beachgoers from Tokyo come to escape the heat, and it can get insanely crowded .

This is also a great place for water sports such as paddleboarding, windsurfing, and kayaking. You can rent equipment and take lessons if you’re a beginner.

Packing in a day trip from Tokyo is a lot more rewarding than taking half-day trips. By heading out before the sun rises and leaving at the end of the day, you can easily pack in a full day of adventure and fun with your loved ones. These aren’t narrowed down for tourists alone, Japanese locals also love to explore their home!

Nikko lies north of Tokyo, a wonderful place known for its forests, waterfalls, and natural hot springs – a very peaceful day away from the busyness of Tokyo.

One of the most famous places in Nikko is the Toshogu Temple , the final resting place of Tokugawa Ieyasu, who ruled Japan for over 250 years. He was a pretty important guy, and you can tell by how elaborate and beautiful his tomb and shrine are.

Make sure not to miss Kegon Falls , one of Japan’s most famous waterfalls. At almost 100 meters high, it’s completely breathtaking. This EPIC Tour will take you through the Nikko Toshogu Shrine and Kegon Waterfall. Afterward, you can choose your own adventure before your tour concludes. Don’t miss it!

A girl meditates amongst buddha statues at temple in Nikko, Japan.

The most magical temple most will ever step foot in is in Nikko, Kanmangafuchi Abyss , located in a mystical forest full of Jizu statues of different sizes and shapes, carved thousands of years ago, all next to an electric blue, ice-cold river.

It’s one of those temples where, when you touch the stones, you can truly FEEL the energy of the past blast through your bones.

Lake Kawaguchiko

Lake Kawaguchiko, one of the Fuji Five Lakes, is arguably the best place for the ULTIMATE views of Fuji-san.

You can rent a bike here for $6.68 a day and explore the well-paved path around the lake, stopping at various attractions along the way. There are three highly popular museums, the Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum, the Kubota Itchiku Art Museum, and the Contemporary Art Museum .

Mount fuji standing proudly over Lake Kawaguchiko, Japan.

Oishii Park, located on Lake Kawaguchiko’s north side, has some pretty jaw-dropping views of Mount Fuji – it’s like the  mountain’s personal portrait studio.

I’ve come up with the perfect Lake Kawaguchiko itinerary to guide you upon your visit, don’t miss it! You can take a nice walk along the pathways, chill on benches with perfect views, and witness a massive flower garden in full bloom. There are also some ice cream shops with local- flavors. Fuji-apple ice cream, anyone?

Hakone is a popular spot to see Mt. Fuji. It’s a convenient 1.5-hour trip from Tokyo, nestled around Lake Asahi. Here you can relax in some of the country’s most famous hot springs, a true highlight of Hakone.

If you’ve got 3-4 days, you can give the time and love to the villages and the backroads that make Hakone unique and stay in the best places . For the best experience, consider visiting Hakone in the autumn , when the changing season paints the hillsides in a golden hue.

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

You can detour to Owakudani to witness the sulfur steam rising from the live volcano and the steaming hot rivers. This is the place to savor the renowned black eggs that the region is famous for—they say indulging in these might add seven years to your life, so eat wisely!

If you’re going to Hakone from Tokyo, you can get the Hakone Free Pass , a pass designed for tourists to save money while visiting Hakone from Tokyo.

This pass includes a round-trip ticket from Tokyo to Hakone, a lake cruise at Ashi Lake, unlimited public transport in Hakone, and discounts on a lot of attractions once you’re there.

I recommend jumping in for this 6-hour private tour around Hakone . The guide was extremely knowledgeable, friendly, and helpful in showing us one of the most amazing areas around Hakone. GET EXICTED!

Nagano 

Nagano Prefecture is overflowing with amazing places to explore. If you catch an early Shinkansen to Nagano City, you’ll have time to visit renowned spots like the Togakushi shrine path and the Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park before returning to Tokyo.

Check out Nagano City, home to Japan’s most famous temple Zenko-Ji, and also the host of the 1998 Winter Olympic Games.

Zenko-Ji Temple is home to the first Buddhist statue ever brought to Japan. Right outside the temple, there’s a lively street filled with shops and stalls selling all sorts of things, from handcrafted goods to fancy tea.

Monkey hanging out by traditional Japanese hot spring in Nagano, Japan.

Nagano is also famous for its onsen resorts , where you can unwind in soothing hot springs. While many require an overnight stay, a few, like Shibu, welcome day-trip tourists from Tokyo.

The main attraction in Nagano, and a personal highlight of my trip were the famous Nagano Snow Monkeys , which are truly remarkable. There doesn’t need to be snow on the ground to see them either! I saw them swimming around in the hot spring in the middle of September.

Jump on this EPIC day trip to discover Nagano’s near-1400-year-old Zenko-ji Temple and visit the world-famous Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park.

Hike Mt. Fuji

Tackling Mount Fuji, Japan’s iconic volcano, is on every Japanese backpacker’s bucket list. It’s also home to one of Japan’s wonderful national parks . It is no small feat, but with the right planning and a sprinkle of determination, it can be an AMAZING adventure.

First things first, pick the right season. The official climbing season is from July to September, when the snow has melted and the trails are accessible.

There are ten mountain huts along the way where you can rest, refuel, and even catch some z’s if needed. These huts provide simple meals, hot drinks, and a place to rest, but don’t expect luxury accommodations – it’s all part of the experience.

A sunset view of torii gate on a rocky mountain top in Japan, with Mount Fuji in the background.

As you inch closer to the summit, the air gets thinner, and you might start feeling the effects of altitude. Take it slow and steady, and don’t be afraid to take breaks. The sight of a breathtaking sunrise from the summit makes every step worth it.

You’ll really enjoy this day trip around Mt Fuji, but if you don’t want the extra stress of traveling, stay a night or two and take it easy!

When thinking of  where to stay on Mt. Fuji , you’ve got some cool areas to choose from.

Swap your walking shoes for flip-flops and head to Atami. Perched on the hills overlooking Sagami Bay, it’s a coastal onsen town just inside Shizuoka Prefecture.

Unlike some other seaside spots in Japan, Atami doesn’t feel like a deserted ghost town. It bustles with life. However, you’ll spot remnants of the 80s bubble era, like flashy but slightly weathered hotels, a few empty buildings, and some intriguing Brutalist architecture.

Being a town that combines hot springs and the seaside, Atami offers something for all seasons. In the colder months, you can enjoy a relaxing onsen soak, while in the warmer months, take a dip in the sea. The town’s name, “Hot Ocean,” reflects its natural hot springs, making it a popular getaway for Tokyo residents since the 8th century.

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

Try heading to Kinomiya Shrine , a short 15-minute walk from Atami. Here, you’ll find a 1,300-year-old tree believed to grant an extra year of life to those who walk around it.

You can also try cooling off indoors at the MOA Museum of Art or the Hihokan Adult Museum (meaning sex museum.. worth a look?!).

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Fuji Q Highlands

Fuji-Q Highland, often referred to simply as Fuji-Q, is a renowned amusement park located at the base of Mount Fuji. The park is home to some of the most famous and intense roller coasters in Japan. It features “ Eejanaika ,” a 4D roller coaster that flips riders head over heels, and “ Fujiyama ,” once the tallest and fastest coaster in the world.

In addition to the rides, there are also more family-friendly attractions such as carousels, Ferris wheels, and water rides. It also has dining options, souvenir shops, and entertainment shows.

You can also check out the Haunted Hospital, beware: you must have strong nerves to go there.

Fuji-Q Highland can be reached directly by bus from Shinjuku station. The trip takes about an hour and 40 minutes.

Don’t Forget Your Tokyo Travel Insurance

Japan is a safe country to visit. But, besides, you can’t plan for everything. Believe me, if things don’t go according to plan,  solid Japan insurance  is invaluable.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

From the peace of mystical mountains to exploring ancient towns, chasing waterfalls, relaxing on beautiful beaches, and connecting with snow monkeys, there’s something for every adventurer just on Tokyo’s doorstep.

Don’t forget the iconic Mount Fuji for those seeking the thrill of a challenging ascent or the exhilaration of roller coasters for an adrenaline rush.

Having personally explored these day trips from Tokyo on my own Japan backpacking adventure, I can tell you that there are so many fantastic options. This list only covers the TOP 10 best day trips from Tokyo.

These places provide a perfect balance to the city’s chaotic energy, allowing you to soak in the beauty and serenity of Japan’s diverse landscapes, all within easy reach of Tokyo. So, pack up your backpack and get out of the craziness of the city to see a whole other side of Japan.

Solo female hitchhiker takes selfie as she waits for a ride in Japan.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Audy Scala

Share or save this post

promotional sidebar image for booking.com

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

The top 7 art museums to visit in Tokyo

Zoria Petkoska

Jan 19, 2024 • 6 min read

TOKYO, JAPAN - JANUARY 25:  Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama sits working on a new painting, in front of other newly finished paintings in her studio, on January 25, 2012 in Tokyo, Japan. Yayoi Kusama, who suffers from mental health problems and lives in a hospital near her studio, is one of today's most highly revered and popular of Japanese artists. She is one of the world's top selling living female artists breaking records in the millions. A major retrospective of her work is on display at Tate Modern in London through June 5, 2012.  (Photo by Jeremy Sutton-Hibbert/Getty Images)

There's always something new on show from films at the Ghibli Museum to works by Yayoi Kusama in Tokyo © Jeremy Sutton-Hibbert / Getty Images

In a city of ravenous for art, in  Tokyo lines for exhibitions are as long as those for the latest pop idol's concerts.

The dozens of museums and galleries in Tokyo with dynamically changing exhibitions – from ukiyo-e woodblock prints to NFT gifs blinking on LED canvases – ensure even locals will never get bored. Whether local or international, there is always something new on show in the impeccable art halls of Japan's capital.

Weekends and holidays are best avoided if possible. And in this city of meticulous, perpetually full schedules, tickets should be bought in advance. Rarely is the entrance-ticket free, save for Culture Day (November 3). Most art institutions close on Mondays; the rest of the week, public ones shut their doors as early as 5pm, while private museums and galleries stay open longer.

Neon-pink artwork featuring two people in white in a mirrored room filled with hovering globes or balloons

1. teamLab Planets

Best immersive museum in Tokyo

Not even a typhoon could deter the people lining up for one of the first teamLab exhibitions back in August 2016. Since then, the international art collective – composed of various specialists, such as artists, programmers, engineers, CG animators, mathematicians and architects – has been unstoppable.

teamLab Planets is a whimsical wonderland, one where you enter barefoot, climb a waterfall, step on flowers of light in silky warm water, and knock around giant colorful balls. In contrast to most museums, here you should touch the art, snap photos, proclaim your excitement and dive into the fun – in other words, truly immerse yourself. 

There are four massive exhibition spaces and two gardens, with a living orchid exhibit and occasional seasonal additions, like cherry blossoms in March and April. In teamLab Planets' front yard stands the public art sculpture named Universe of Fire Particles Falling from the Sky , a lava-lamp-like beacon of digital flowing art. In the same area, Reversible Rotation – Non-Objective Space  is a special mirror-walled art room where one can eat creative ramen offerings from Vegan Ramen UZU, surrounded by teamLab's unique spatial calligraphy projections. Tickets are purchased in advance, with a predetermined time slot. 

2. Yayoi Kusama Museum

Most dynamic museum dedicated to a single artist

Run by the eponymous Yayoi Kusama Foundation, this museum opened in 2017 to have the art of its prolific avant-garde namesake always on display. Best known for her polka-dot pumpkins and infinity mirror rooms, the 93-year-old Kusama keeps creating today, with some of the works exhibited referring to themes of isolation. 

Unlike museums dedicated to a single artist that remain pretty static, the Yayoi Kusama Museum often changes exhibits, which makes the tickets highly coveted, considering even Tokyoites are itching to visit at least twice a year. Also, the museum often exhibits works for the first time ever in Japan – or the world. 

The current exhibition "Visionary Colors" runs until March 2024. Tickets must be purchased in advance, with a predetermined time slot. 

Interior shot of the National Art Center in the Roppongi Hills of Tokyo, Japan

3. Mori Art Museum

Art with a view

On the 52nd and 53rd floors of Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, Mori Art Museum stands tallest among museums in Tokyo. Visit for the art and linger for the views.

Ticket holders of Mori Art Museum can also enter the open-air Sky Deck for just ¥500 (about US$5). It's a rare open-air observation deck in Tokyo, and the 360-degree view includes the iconic Tokyo Tower and the Tokyo Skytree. Even Tokyo Bay is visible by day. 

The museum is a private institution that walks the tightrope between brave curation of cutting-edge art and pop culture. In the last few years alone, the museum has held exhibitions on the ukiyo-e painter Hokusai, as well as Hello Kitty and Attack on Titan, and it's collaborated with Hollywood darling Takashi Murakami and futurist designers and stars of Japanese architecture.

Exterior of the Ghibli museum, which holds the work of Studio Ghibli.

4. Ghibli Museum

Best for children and children at heart

Whimsical and fantastical, this museum looks like it belongs in a Ghibli movie itself. Ivy hugs the colorful walls, while a Totoro plushie grins from a fake entrance and one of Laputa's iron giants stands on the museum's rooftop.

The doors of the Ghibli Museum open to an even more magical space. Upon entering, you are given a ticket made from pieces of 35mm film that were actually used in theaters. You can hold it up to the light and see which scene from a Ghibli film you got. 

Once in, there is original Ghibli art displayed, peeks into animation history and even a replica of Hayao Miyazaki's work desk. The museum screens short movies, some of which are exclusive to the museum and only available for a limited time. The cute cafe and museum shop on the premises are among the best places for Ghibli merchandise . 

A special exhibition on  The Boy and the Heron opened in November 2023 and is tentatively expected to run through to 2025.

At just ¥1000 (US$8) for an adult ticket (less for children), it is affordable but notoriously difficult to nab one due to high demand. Advance reservations only. Also, be prepared for the fact that no photos are allowed inside the museum.  

A man on a staircase with floor-to-ceiling windows inside the 21_21 Design Sight Museum in Roppongi

5. 21_21 Design Sight

Best museum for design hipsters

With names such as starchitect Tadao Ando and fashion designer Issey Miyake involved, architecture, fashion and design otaku (geeks) fall head over heels for this museum. 

Architects and Japan have always had a special affair – every architect wants to visit the country with the most Pritzker Architecture Prize winners. One of those winners is Tadao Ando, so 21_21 Design Sight's building alone is art, with its sloping concrete roof and underground halls. It's made both to blend into Midtown Garden greenery and to stand out with its concrete geometry. 

The art exhibitions often fulfill the tall order of showing something you've never thought of before – 2021's "Translations," for instance, had robot monks singing sutras and a computer screen room translating everything you said into myriad languages, among other things. In 2024, Shunji Yamanaka's prototyping of the future, and an exhibition of ethereal works by American artist Daniel Brush are in the calendar. 

6. Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum

Local art lovers' best-kept "secret" spot

As much as public institutions can be secret, or as much as secrets can exist today, the Teien Art Museum is something close to a secret – at least, it's relatively uncrowded.

Open since 1983, it's housed in the former residence of Prince Asaka Yasuhiko, a building designated one of Japan's Important Cultural Properties. The prince and princess lived in Paris in the golden age of art deco, so the whole building was constructed in that style by the best artisans of the time. 

Today, the exhibitions at Teien Art often focus on art deco or have a French connection, such as the recent displays of glass art by Lalique. The museum's 2024 spring exhibition celebrates the museum's 40th anniversary, with an exhibition that analyzes and interprets anew the building, its construction and its artefacts.

People walking at dusk near the entrance of the Honkan (Japanese Gallery) in the Tokyo National Museum

7. Tokyo National Museum

Best museum for first-time visitors to Japan

The Tokyo National Museum in Ueno Park is Japan's first, oldest and largest museum, displaying a vast collection of primarily Japanese artworks for 150 years now. There are yet more superlatives in order: with more than 100,000 pieces, hundreds of them national treasures, the Tokyo National Museum possesses one of the biggest and best art and history collections in Japan, featuring paintings, sculptures, calligraphy, architectural models, metalware, swords, pottery, archeological objects and more.

With a wealth of traditional Japanese items, such as kimono, samurai armor, calligraphy scrolls and ukiyo-e woodblock prints (mainly in the Honkan building), it's a must-visit for all Japan aficionados. Since most Japanese people would have visited this landmark museum early on, it's often uncrowded and relaxed, with spacious exhibition halls spread over six buildings. In the teahouses in the garden, you might even chance upon a haiku gathering.

This article was first published May 2022 and updated January 2024

Explore related stories

1291824230

Architecture

Mar 1, 2024 • 6 min read

For many cultures, the spring equinox signifies a rebirth. Here are 12 incredible places to mark the changing of the season this year.

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

Feb 16, 2024 • 6 min read

Stills from The Reluctant Traveler with Eugene Levy

Dec 26, 2023 • 5 min read

Multi nationality women walking through Tokyo

Dec 18, 2023 • 18 min read

Young woman walking under cherry blossoms trees in a park in Japan

Dec 14, 2023 • 8 min read

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

Nov 17, 2023 • 10 min read

Stephanie Yeboah in NYC

Nov 2, 2023 • 5 min read

Active senior husband and wife love playing Surfing in Early morning at Izu Peninsula UNESCO Global Geopark Japan

Sep 5, 2023 • 5 min read

Dad and daughter in Tokyo, Japan

Aug 25, 2023 • 8 min read

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

Aug 24, 2023 • 6 min read

How to watch the 2024 Oscars: A full rundown on nominations, host and how to tune in

places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

If you're an awards show junkie , your Super Bowl awaits.

On March 10, the annual Oscars coronation will unfold at Los Angeles' Dolby Theatre, drawing Hollywood's most glam (and talented) denizens.

The battle for trophies this awards season remains focused on two mega-nominated gladiators, "Barbie" and "Oppenheimer," aka Barbenheimer . But a number of possible surprises no doubt are keeping oddsmakers busy, such as: Will "The Holdovers" star Paul Giamatti pip "Oppenheimer" doppelgänger Cillian Murphy ?

While it might seem like a fantasy to actually attend the Oscars , the reality is that there's no better seat than in front of your TV, taking in everything from heartfelt speeches to sappy production numbers to the impossible-to-predict ( The Slap , anyone?).

Here's what you need to know before tuning in to the 96th Academy Awards:

When are the 2024 Oscars?

The Oscars will be take place Sunday, March 10, but two things are critical to know this year. One, the show is set to begin an hour earlier than usual , at 7 p.m. ET/4 PT, a nod to the show habitually running long. And two, don't forget to set your clocks back as it's the first day of daylight saving time .

How can I watch the 2024 Oscars?

The 2024 Oscars will air live on ABC and stream live at abc.com and the ABC app (if you're a cable subscriber) via connected devices such as Roku, AppleTV and Amazon Fire TV.

The Oscars can also be watched on streaming services that carry ABC, such as Hulu, YouTubeTV, AT&T TV and FuboTV.

Where can I watch the red carpet for the 2024 Oscars?

E! has a full day of Oscars coverage planned, starting with "E! Brunch at the Oscars" at 2 p.m. ET/11 a.m. PT and red carpet show "Live from E!: The Oscars" at 4 p.m. ET/1 PT. A 30-minute ABC preshow at 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 PT will lead into the live awards show.

Who is hosting the 2024 Oscars?

Jimmy Kimmel is back as host, stepping in last year to guide the ship after a rocky 2022 show where presenter Chris Rock received a slap on the face from best actor winner Will Smith , after Rock made a joke at the expense of Smith's wife, Jada Pinkett Smith.

This is Kimmel's fourth time hosting the Academy Awards, which ties him with Whoopi Goldberg and Jack Lemmon. At the top of the ho s ting list are Johnny Carson (with five appearances), Billy Crystal (nine) and Bob Hope (19).

Who is presenting at the 2024 Oscars?

In keeping with Oscars tradition, last year's big winners will return to present top awards to the next generation of Oscar recipients, including 2023's actor and actress kings and queens Brendan Fraser , Michelle Yeoh , Ke Huy Quan and Jamie Lee Curtis .

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has also announced that “Scarface” co-stars Michelle Pfeiffer and Al Pacino are set to hand out awards. Other big names set to present include Zendaya, Matthew McConaughey, Jessica Lange, Nicolas Cage, Mahershala Ali, Sam Rockwell, Lupita Nyong’o, Bad Bunny, Chris Hemsworth, Dwayne Johnson, Michael Keaton, Regina King, Jennifer Lawrence, Kate McKinnon, Rita Moreno, John Mulaney, Catherine O’Hara, Octavia Spencer and Ramy Youssef.

This week, the Academy added more presenters: Emily Blunt, Cynthia Erivo, America Ferrera, Sally Field, Ryan Gosling, Ariana Grande, Ben Kingsley, Melissa McCarthy, Issa Rae, Tim Robbins, Steven Spielberg, Mary Steenburgen, Anya Taylor-Joy, Charlize Theron, Christoph Waltz and Forest Whitaker.

Who will perform Oscar movie songs? Get ready for a Ken doll

"Barbie" co-star Ryan Gosling will hit the Oscars stage to perform his signature song from the movie, "I'm J ust Ken." He'll be joined by Mark Ronson, the song's co-writer (along with Andrew Wyatt).

Others slated to perform their nominated songs include Becky G ("The Fire Inside" from "Flamin' Hot"), Jon Batiste ("It Never Went Away" from "American Symphony"), Scott George and the Osage Singers ("Wahzhazhe [A Song for My People]" from "Killers of the Flower Moon") and Billie Eilish and Finneas O'Connell ("What Was I Made For" from "Barbie").

Which movies are nominated for best picture at the 2024 Oscars?

Leading the pack this year is the inescapable "Oppenheimer," which has 13 Oscar nominations. Next up is "Poor Things" with 11, followed by "Killers of the Flower Moon" with 10. The year's box-office queen, "Barbie," has eight nods. Other nominees in the top category include "American Fiction," "Anatomy of a Fall," "The Holdovers," "The Zone of Interest," "Past Lives" and "Maestro."

Who will win the 2024 best actor Oscar?

According to awards season handicappers Gold Derby , it's a very tight race for the statue between Murphy and Giamatti, with oddsmakers placing the other nominees far behind: Bradley Cooper ("Maestro"), Colman Domingo ("Rustin") and Jeffrey Wright ("American Fiction").

Who will win the 2024 best actress Oscar?

In best actress, Gold Derby is predicting another two-way race , this time between Lily Gladstone ("Killers of the Flower Moon") and Emma Stone ("Poor Things"), with the edge going to Gladstone, who has racked up a slew of awards this season and would be the first Native American to win a competitive Oscar for acting . The other nominees are Annette Bening ("Nyad"), Carey Mulligan ("Oppenheimer") and Sandra Hüller ("Anatomy of a Fall").

Contributing: The Associated Press

Reuters

48 HOURS: Tokyo street eats with Shake Shack's Randy Garutti

By Jenna Zucker

TORONTO, March 5 (Reuters) - Randy Garutti knows street food: He been Shake Shack's chief executive officer since its inception as a hot dog cart in New York’s Madison Square Park.

But when Garutti visits Tokyo, which boasts seven of the country's 13 Shake Shack locations, he makes sure to sample all aspects of traditional Japanese cuisine.

The following interview with Garutti, who plans to retire in 2024, is edited and condensed.

WHERE I GO FIRST

My favorite place to start my trip is going immediately to Tonki (1 Chome-1-2 Shimomeguro) in Meguro – a multi-generational restaurant specializing in tonkatsu (fried pork cutlets).

It’s kind of like going to Katz’s Deli (for pastrami) when you’re in New York: the simple dedication to one amazing product is a hallmark of Japanese food, and Tonki is such a pleasure.

WHERE I STAY

Tokyo hotels are notoriously expensive and small, so no matter where you want to stay, it’s always a struggle. The Marriott in Shinagawa (4 Chome-7-36 Kitashinagawa) provides the best value for a large hotel and business setting.

It’s not the most convenient location for central Tokyo, but it’s close enough and a quick Tokyo Metro ride gets you where you need to go.

BEST PLACE FOR TEAM MEETINGS

Most people would say the large hotels. But I prefer to find a small coffee shop or, in good weather, a great park like Gaien (1-1 Kasumigaokamachi) or near the Emperor’s Palace. Do it outside.

WORTHWHILE TOURIST TRAP

Bill’s for pancakes. Crazy lines, but years of hype make it a fun experience (2-6-12 Okura House 12F, Ginza).

GETTING AROUND

Metro is the only answer. It’s so easy, cheap, clean, respectful and fun. But don’t walk the wrong direction – Tokyo is about respect. Following the rules on the Metro and in the stations is essential.

The same is true, of course, for the bullet trains when you travel outside of Tokyo. It’s almost never worth driving or taking a taxi if you can avoid it.

COFFEE SPOTS

Find a back alley, small, independent coffee shop and you can’t go wrong. I like to head to Cat Street in Omotesando and see who’s brewing.

But I also must admit that Blue Bottle (4 Chome−1−6 NEWoMan Shinjuku 1F) does an incredible job in Tokyo.

INSIDERS ONLY

Many of the best restaurants are not open to the public and can be found on upper floors of random buildings. Some of the greatest yakitori (skewered chicken), teppanyaki (food cooked on a metal plate) and other favorites can be found in hidden places – you’ve got to have Japanese friends to help.

DINNER SPLURGE

Going all-in on sushi. The best places have eight seats at the sushi bar, and that’s it.

If you’re not into sushi, my favorite yakiniku (Japanese barbecue) is Kirakutei (Minato City).

For yakitori, go to Hachibei (Roppongi 7-4-5 B1F, Minato-ku).

BIGGEST MISCONCEPTION

Tokyo can be wildly expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. Some of my favorite meals and experiences are neighborhood ramen restaurants where you can eat for a few bucks.

BEST MEMORY

I finally got to bring my family for a recent trip. Touring with my wife and children around Tokyo and then spending time in the mountains in Hakone, the temples of Kyoto and so much more are my favorite memories.

FAVORITE SOUVENIR

Unfortunately, the Tsukiji fish market moved to a new location years ago, but the old market neighborhood is still robust for great meals and for shopping. I always find amazing Japanese pottery, plates, bowls, tea sets and knives to bring home in the side streets.

CAN’T-MISS TREATS

For cheap and fun snacks, Don Quijote (various locations). It is kind of like a dollar store, but so much more. They have every snack available, including every flavor of Kit Kat imaginable. You might even find the really hard-to-get Japanese whiskeys on the upper floors.

Another fun excursion is Harajuku. Get whatever crazy crepe, cotton candy or other trend is hitting Takeshita street.

My go-to store is Akomeya (various locations) for incredible food, housewares and other options.

After that, go to the basement of any of the large department stores in Ginza and other neighborhoods. There are hundreds of incredible food options, souvenirs and, of course, fashion on the upper floors. But first be prepared to indulge downstairs. (Editing by Lauren Young and Chizu Nomiyama)

IMAGES

  1. The best places to visit in Tokyo

    places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

  2. Places To Visit Tokyo

    places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

  3. Places to visit in Tokyo, Japan by Zubi Travel

    places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

  4. Things to do in Tokyo

    places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

  5. 10 Best Spots to Photograph in Tokyo for First-Time Visitors

    places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

  6. 11 Places Where Locals Love to Go in Tokyo

    places to visit 1 hour from tokyo

VIDEO

  1. Tokyo Kichijoji 🐶🍻 Amusement Town ♪ 💖 4K RELAX/STADY non -stop 1 hour 01 minutes

  2. [4K] Tokyo Drift

  3. 6 MOST OVERRATED Things To Do IN TOKYO 2023! (And Where To Go Instead!)

  4. 24 Hrs In Tokyo Japan! EPIC 1-DAY ITINERARY for 2024, Temples to Technology

  5. Tokyo travel / Places you can visit in Tokyo

  6. Sunset to Sunrise Tokyo Cityscape, City Sounds for Study 12 Hours, Open Window 4K

COMMENTS

  1. Top 25 Easy Day Trips From Tokyo

    2. Enoshima. 1 hour 10 minutes by train from Shinjuku Station. US$4.34 *. (one way) Photo by David Iskikawa. 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.

  2. 13 best day trips for a weekend getaway from Tokyo

    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 ...

  3. Tokyo Day Trips: 10 Spots to Explore Just 1 to 2 Hours Away from Tokyo

    Access from Tokyo: Shinjuku Station to Kamakura Station (JR Shōnan-Shinjuku Line) Duration: ~1 hour Fare: 1,836 yen Must-see spots: Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, Hasedera Temple, Hokokuji (the bamboo forest temple), Kōtoku-in, and the Great Buddha of Kamakura, "Enoden" train Notes: Central Kamakura is not that spacious and can be easily explored on foot, but it takes about 25 minutes with the ...

  4. 11 Best Day Trips From Tokyo by Bullet Train

    Shizuoka City is only an hour away from Tokyo via the Tokaido shinkansen line. And if you'd rather visit the city as a day trip from Kyoto, it's only 95 minutes on the same line! Check out the Explore Shizuoka website for more helpful trip-planning information. RELATED: 15 Places to Visit in Japan Off the Beaten Path. Nagoya

  5. 10 Top Tourist Spots and Attractions near Tokyo: Day Trip to Enjoy

    Hakone is a well-known Onsen hot springs resort about 1.5 hours from Tokyo. There are many attractions like Lake Ashinoko, Owakudani Valley, Hakone Shrine, and the Hakone Tozan Railway that connects the scenic spots. The Odakyu Romancecar express between Shinjuku and Hakone-yumoto station is the best choice to get there. The first carriage and ...

  6. 19 Awesome Day Trips From Tokyo » Zooming Japan

    1. Hakone: 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.

  7. 16 Underrated Day Trips From Tokyo You Haven't Thought Of

    1.5 hour day trips from Tokyo FUJI-Q HIGHLAND. 1.5 hours from Tokyo by bus What's better than a Japanese theme park? A Japanese theme park with a stunning view of Mt Fuji as a postcard-worthy backdrop! Home to four major rollercoasters to get your adrenaline pumping, often overlooked Fuji-Q Highland is actually one of the best places to see ...

  8. 42 Best Day Trips from Tokyo

    Enoshima day trips from Tokyo; 4. Kawagoe. 1 hour from Tokyo railway station / 5-7€ (one way) A charming merchant town preserved to make it a great place to visit to experience their heritage and culture. Feel their traditional buildings and try out their great food. There are plenty of traditional restaurants and cafes. Kawagoe day trips ...

  9. 10 Best Day Trips from Tokyo

    More Info. 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. More Info. 6.

  10. The 5 best day trips from Tokyo

    Hakone is famous for its traditional spas, and one of Japan's most scenically located. 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.

  11. 10 Must-Do Day Trips from Tokyo, Japan

    Getting to Kamakura. The easiest (and quickest) way to travel from Tokyo to Kamakura is on the JR Yokosuka line from Tokyo Station. The ride to Kamakura takes about an hour and costs ¥850-¥1200. Kita-Kamakura Station, one stop before Kamakura, is the best choice if you want to check out Kamakura's temple scene.

  12. 11 Best Day Trips from Tokyo

    A one-way trip takes about an hour and costs approximately ¥950, but if you have a Japan Rail Pass you can take these trains for free. Kamakura Private Walking Tour (Customizable) Take a train heading south from Tokyo for about 1 hour and you will get to Kamakura, the old Shogunate capital of Japan.

  13. Explore the Best One Day Trips from Tokyo

    Here's the plan: Start from Ueno Station and take the direct Hitachi-Tokiwa line. Roughly 90 minutes later, you're at Katsuta Station. A quick bus hop, and voilà, you're at the park's entrance! When you're there, wander over to the Pleasure Garden area, it's filled with fun rides and activities.

  14. 10 BEST DAY TRIPS FROM TOKYO [JAPAN GUIDE]

    2. Lake Kawaguchi around Mount Fuji, one of the best day trips from Tokyo! 3. Hakone, another amazing spot to see Mount Fuji. 4. Yokohama, just under 30 min from Tokyo! 5. Karuizawa, one of our favorite places to visit in Japan! 6.

  15. Places to visit about 1 hour from Tokyo

    Travel time from Tokyo, Japan. 1 hour north of Tokyo 1 hour south of Tokyo cities within 1 hour of Tokyo 1½ hours from Tokyo places within 2 hours of me in Tokyo explore 2½ hours from Tokyo 3 hr radius map from Tokyo 3½ hr drive from Tokyo places within 4 hours of me in Tokyo within 4½ hours of me in Tokyo 5 hour drive from me in Tokyo

  16. 15 Best Day Trips from Tokyo

    Resting in the mountains north of Tokyo is the beloved local treasure of Nikko, one of the most beautiful places to visit in Japan. ... Distance from Tokyo: 49 km / 30.4 miles; Time: 1 hour 24 minute train ride / 56 minutes driving; Just north of Japan's sprawling metropolis in Saitama Prefecture, Sayama Hills is one of the best day trips ...

  17. 26 Best Day Trips from Tokyo

    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.

  18. Tokyo Day Trips: 11 of the Best Places to Visit from Tokyo

    In terms of short trips from Tokyo, Hakone is one of the most easily accessible (about 1 hour by train), which makes a Hakone day trip quite easy to do if you have an extra day in your Tokyo itinerary. However, we highly recommend spending a night or two in Hakone to really experience its true magic.

  19. The Top 10 Day Trip Destinations Within 2 Hours of Tokyo

    1. Kamakura (Kanagawa Prefecture) Kamakura is very easy to access from the city center and is located just an hour from Tokyo, making it a popular location for a casual visit. The town is overflowing with nature, being surrounded by mountains and the sea, and is home to beautiful flowers and scenery that change with each of the four seasons.

  20. 5 Easy Bullet Train Trips From Tokyo

    2.5 hours from Tokyo | Direct: 14,120 yen (reserved, one-way) Photo by Lily Crossley-Baxter. Once Japan's second largest city (after Kyoto), Kanazawa was protected from most air raids in the Second World War and is therefore one of the best-preserved cities you can visit in Japan. Nicknamed Little Kyoto, it is home to a wealth of arts and ...

  21. 10 Most EPIC Tokyo Day Trips

    Nikko. Nikko lies north of Tokyo, a wonderful place known for its forests, waterfalls, and natural hot springs - a very peaceful day away from the busyness of Tokyo. One of the most famous places in Nikko is the Toshogu Temple, the final resting place of Tokugawa Ieyasu, who ruled Japan for over 250 years.

  22. 24 Hours in Tokyo, Japan: Itinerary & Where to Go in One Day

    By train: The best way to travel around Japan is with the Japan Rail Pass. From Kyoto, the shinkansen (bullet train) takes between 2h20 and 2h40, with fares starting at ¥13,080 for travelers without a pass. Trains from Osaka to Tokyo are only slightly longer, covering the route in 2h30m to 3h. Fares start at ¥13,620.

  23. 1 day in Tokyo: The ultimate 24 hours in Tokyo itinerary

    She has visited hundreds of destinations and has lived in 7 different countries. Cory is multilingual and an alumna from The University of Manchester. 24 hours in Tokyo, your 1 day in Tokyo itinerary: 1) Shibuya Crossing; 2) Hachiko; 3) Shibuya Sky; 4) Centre Gai; 5) Donki; 6) Parco; 7) Omotesando; 8) Afuri.

  24. Tokyo Travel Tips: 50 Things To Know Before You Go

    Tokyo is a vibrant kaleidoscope of sights, sounds, and sensations. For first-timers, Tokyo is a place of endless possibility, where every corner reveals something new and exciting to discover.

  25. The top 7 art museums to visit in Tokyo

    On the 52nd and 53rd floors of Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, Mori Art Museum stands tallest among museums in Tokyo. Visit for the art and linger for the views. Ticket holders of Mori Art Museum can also enter the open-air Sky Deck for just ¥500 (about US$5). ... The cute cafe and museum shop on the premises are among the best places for Ghibli ...

  26. Where to watch the Oscars: Time, date, channel and host in one place

    The Oscars will be take place Sunday, March 10, but two things are critical to know this year. One, the show is set to begin an hour earlier than usual, at 7 p.m. ET/4 PT, a nod to the show ...

  27. 48 HOURS: Tokyo street eats with Shake Shack's Randy Garutti

    BEST PLACE FOR TEAM MEETINGS. Most people would say the large hotels. But I prefer to find a small coffee shop or, in good weather, a great park like Gaien (1-1 Kasumigaokamachi) or near the ...

  28. 10 Tips for 2024 Primary Election Day Voters

    For more information, see Upcoming Election. Go to your assigned polling place on Election Day. Statewide, nearly 2,600 polling places will be open from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday. Voters in line at 7:30 p.m. will be able to cast a ballot. To find your polling place, use the Voter Search tool on the State Board's website, ncsbe.gov.