Are you looking to escape the bustling city life of Tokyo for a day and explore the beautiful surroundings of Japan? Day trips from Tokyo offer the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich culture, stunning landscapes, and historical sites just a short distance away from the capital. From the serene temples of Nikko to the iconic Mount Fuji, there are endless possibilities for unforgettable day excursions. Join us as we uncover the best day trips from Tokyo that will leave you inspired and rejuvenated.
Nikko
Travel tips
- Distance of Nikko from Tokyo: 93 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 2 hours
- How to get there from Tokyo: You can take the Tobu Railway from Asakusa Station in Tokyo to Tobu Nikko Station in Nikko. Alternatively, you can take a highway bus from Tokyo Station to Nikko.
- Click for Google maps directions: Nikko
Exploring Nikko: Things to do
Nikko, a historic town nestled in the mountains of Japan, is a must-see destination for travelers seeking a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The town is renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the ornate Toshogu Shrine, the final resting place of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate. Visitors can marvel at the intricate architecture and detailed carvings that adorn the shrine, offering a glimpse into Japan’s rich history.
Apart from the Toshogu Shrine, Nikko is also home to the picturesque Lake Chuzenji, a serene body of water surrounded by lush forests and hiking trails. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy a leisurely boat ride on the lake or embark on a scenic hike to witness the beauty of the changing seasons.
For those interested in Japanese spirituality, a visit to the Rinno-ji Temple complex is a must. This sacred site houses several temples and pagodas, providing a tranquil setting for reflection and contemplation. The sprawling grounds of Rinno-ji offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Additionally, Nikko is known for its stunning autumn foliage, attracting visitors from far and wide to witness the vibrant colors of the changing leaves. The Nikko National Park offers a spectacular backdrop for leaf-peeping, with the vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow painting the landscape in a breathtaking display of nature’s beauty.
In conclusion, Nikko’s blend of historical landmarks, natural wonders, and cultural significance make it a must-visit destination for travelers exploring Japan. Whether you’re seeking spiritual enlightenment, scenic beauty, or a glimpse into Japan’s past, Nikko offers a diverse range of experiences that are sure to captivate and inspire.
Kamakura
Travel tips
- Distance from Tokyo: Approximately 31 miles
- Time to get there: Around 1 hour by train
- To get to Kamakura from Tokyo, take the JR Yokosuka Line from Tokyo Station to Kamakura Station. Alternatively, you can take the Odakyu Line from Shinjuku Station to Fujisawa Station, then transfer to the JR Yokosuka Line to Kamakura Station.
- Click for Google maps directions: Kamakura
Exploring Kamakura: Things to do
Kamakura, a historic coastal town in Japan, is a must-see destination for travelers looking to immerse themselves in traditional Japanese culture and history. One of the top attractions in Kamakura is the iconic Great Buddha of Kamakura, a massive bronze statue that dates back to the 13th century. Visitors can marvel at the sheer size and craftsmanship of this cultural treasure.
Another highlight of Kamakura is the serene Hase-dera Temple, known for its beautiful gardens and stunning views of the coastline. Take a leisurely stroll through the temple grounds and admire the intricate architecture and peaceful atmosphere.
For those interested in history, a visit to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine is a must. This important Shinto shrine is dedicated to Hachiman, the god of war, and is a significant cultural site in Kamakura.
Nature lovers will appreciate a hike to the top of Mount Takao, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area and a chance to see seasonal flora and fauna up close.
After a day of exploring, be sure to sample some of Kamakura’s local delicacies, such as shirasu (small fish) dishes and Kamakura vegetables, at one of the charming eateries in town.
Overall, Kamakura offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a destination that should not be missed when visiting Japan.
Hakone
Travel tips
- Distance of Hakone from Tokyo: Approximately 80 miles
- Time to get there: Around 2 hours
- How to get there from Tokyo: Take the Odakyu Romancecar train from Shinjuku Station to Hakone-Yumoto Station. From there, transfer to the Hakone Tozan Railway to reach various attractions in Hakone.
- Click for Google maps directions: Hakone
Exploring Hakone: Things to do
Hakone, a charming town nestled in the mountains, is a must-see destination for travelers seeking a blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. One of the top attractions in Hakone is the iconic Hakone Shrine, offering stunning views of Lake Ashi and the surrounding mountains. Visitors can also enjoy a relaxing soak in the famous hot springs, known as onsens, which are scattered throughout the area.
For those interested in art, the Hakone Open-Air Museum showcases a diverse collection of sculptures and installations set against the backdrop of lush greenery. Nature enthusiasts can take a leisurely cruise on Lake Ashi or hike along the picturesque trails of Hakone National Park, where they can catch glimpses of Mount Fuji on a clear day.
Food lovers will delight in Hakone’s culinary offerings, from traditional Japanese cuisine to unique local specialties like black eggs cooked in the sulfuric waters of Owakudani. Don’t miss the opportunity to ride the Hakone Ropeway for panoramic views of the volcanic valley and Owakudani’s steaming vents.
Whether you’re seeking relaxation, cultural enrichment, or outdoor adventures, Hakone offers a diverse range of experiences that cater to every traveler’s interests. Plan a day trip to Hakone from Tokyo and immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquility of this enchanting destination.
Yokohama
Travel tips
- Distance from Tokyo: 17 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 30 minutes by train
- To get to Yokohama from Tokyo, take the JR Tokaido Line from Tokyo Station to Yokohama Station. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Tokyo to Yokohama.
- Click for Google maps directions: Yokohama
Exploring Yokohama: Things to do
Yokohama is a vibrant city that offers a unique blend of traditional Japanese culture and modern attractions. One of the must-see places in Yokohama is the iconic Yokohama Landmark Tower, which offers panoramic views of the city from its observation deck. Strolling along the scenic waterfront Yamashita Park is also a popular activity, where you can enjoy views of the bay and visit the historic Hikawa Maru ship.
For those interested in history, a visit to the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse is a must. This historic building now houses shops, restaurants, and event spaces, making it a great place to explore and relax. Another highlight of Yokohama is the Sankeien Garden, a traditional Japanese garden with ponds, tea houses, and historic buildings.
Food lovers will delight in Yokohama’s Chinatown, the largest Chinatown in Japan, where you can sample a variety of delicious Chinese dishes and snacks. Don’t miss trying the famous Yokohama-style ramen, a local specialty that is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Overall, Yokohama is a dynamic city that offers something for everyone, whether you’re interested in history, culture, shopping, or dining. With its convenient location near Tokyo and diverse range of attractions, Yokohama is definitely worth a visit during your time in Japan.
Mount Takao
Travel tips
- Distance from Tokyo: Approximately 31 miles
- Time to get there: Around 1.5 hours
- How to get there: From Shinjuku Station, take the Keio Line to Takaosanguchi Station. From there, it’s a short walk to the base of Mount Takao.
- Click for Google maps directions: Mount Takao
Exploring Mount Takao: Things to do
Mount Takao, known as Takaosan in Japanese, is a popular day trip destination from Tokyo for both locals and tourists alike. This mountain offers a refreshing escape from the bustling city life and provides stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
One of the main attractions of Mount Takao is the Takaosan Yakuoin Temple, a Buddhist temple located halfway up the mountain. Visitors can explore the temple grounds, admire the intricate architecture, and even participate in rituals like goma fire ceremonies.
For nature enthusiasts, Mount Takao offers several hiking trails of varying difficulty levels. The most popular route is Trail 1, which takes you to the summit in about an hour and a half. Along the way, you’ll encounter lush forests, serene streams, and maybe even some wildlife.
At the peak of Mount Takao, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Tokyo and Mount Fuji on clear days. There are observation decks where you can take in the scenery, snap some photos, and enjoy a well-deserved rest.
If you’re feeling hungry after your hike, there are plenty of food stalls and restaurants at the base of the mountain offering local delicacies like soba noodles and dango skewers. Don’t forget to try the famous Takao beer, brewed using water from the mountain itself.
Overall, Mount Takao is a must-see destination for nature lovers, hikers, and anyone looking to experience a different side of Japan’s landscape. Whether you’re seeking adventure or tranquility, this mountain has something to offer for everyone.
Kawagoe
Travel tips
- Distance of Kawagoe from Tokyo: 19 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 1 hour
- How to get there from Tokyo: Take the Seibu Shinjuku Line from Seibu Shinjuku Station to Hon-Kawagoe Station. The journey takes around 45 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a highway bus from Tokyo Station to Kawagoe Station, which takes about 1 hour.
- Click for Google maps directions: Kawagoe
Exploring Kawagoe: Things to do
Kawagoe, known as “Little Edo,” is a charming town that offers a glimpse into Japan’s historical past. One of the must-see places in Kawagoe is the Kurazukuri Street, lined with preserved warehouse buildings from the Edo period. Strolling along this street, visitors can admire the unique architecture and shop for traditional crafts and souvenirs.
Another highlight of Kawagoe is the Kawagoe Castle Honmaru Goten, a reconstructed palace that showcases the luxurious lifestyle of the feudal lords. The beautiful gardens surrounding the palace provide a tranquil escape from the bustling city life.
For history enthusiasts, the Kawagoe Festival Museum is a fascinating stop to learn about the town’s vibrant festival culture. The museum displays elaborate floats and costumes used in the annual Kawagoe Festival, offering insight into the local traditions and celebrations.
Food lovers will delight in trying the local specialty, sweet potato snacks known as “Kawagoe Itakonyanko.” These delicious treats can be found in various shops and stalls throughout the town, adding a flavorful touch to your visit.
Overall, Kawagoe is a must-see destination for those seeking a blend of history, culture, and culinary delights in a picturesque setting just a short trip away from Tokyo.
Izu Peninsula
Travel tips
- Distance from Tokyo: Approximately 100 miles
- Time to get there: Around 2.5 to 3 hours
- How to get there: Take the Odoriko Express train from Tokyo Station to Izu-Kogen Station. From there, transfer to a local bus that will take you to various destinations within the Izu Peninsula.
- Click for Google maps directions: Izu Peninsula
Exploring Izu Peninsula: Things to do
The Izu Peninsula is a captivating destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. One of the top attractions in the area is the stunning Jogasaki Coast, known for its rugged cliffs and panoramic ocean views. Visitors can hike along the coastal trail, marveling at the crystal-clear waters below.
For those interested in history, a visit to the historic Shuzenji Temple is a must. This ancient temple, surrounded by lush greenery, provides a serene setting for reflection and exploration. Nearby, the Shuzenji Onsen offers a relaxing retreat with its hot springs and traditional Japanese hospitality.
Nature enthusiasts will also appreciate a trip to Mount Omuro, a dormant volcano that offers sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. Adventurous travelers can take a chairlift to the summit and even try their hand at the unique sport of “kawazu tobogganing” down the volcano’s slopes.
Foodies will delight in the local cuisine of Izu Peninsula, which includes fresh seafood delicacies such as Ise ebi (spiny lobster) and kinmedai (splendid alfonsino). Be sure to visit the local markets and restaurants to savor the flavors of the region.
Overall, the Izu Peninsula is a must-see destination for those seeking a diverse and enriching travel experience. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, cultural exploration, or simply relaxing in a tranquil setting, this picturesque peninsula has something for everyone.
