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

Richard Barnes

  • Last Updated: January 25, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mount Fuji Day Trips From Tokyo

Table of Contents

What is There to See and Do? 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chureito Pagoda Fuji

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kawaguchiko

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kamakura 

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

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

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

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

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

However the Great Buddha is definitely worth a visit.

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

Daibatsu Kamakura

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

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

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

Hiking In Kamakura Day Trips From Tokyo

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tokyo Day Trip Ideas for Hikers

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hike Mount Daibosatsu

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

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

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

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

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

Hiking Mount Mitake

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

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

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

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

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

Hiking Mount Takao

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mount Takao Tokyo Day Trips

Hike Myojingatake 

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

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

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

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

Izu Peninsula

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bonus Multi-Day Trip: Nikko  

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

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

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

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

Here you can explore temples at your leisure.

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

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

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

Toshogu Shrine

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Yunishigawa Onsen

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Additionally there is the lovely Sankeien garden to explore. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Richard Barnes

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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

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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

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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

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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

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Day Trips From Tokyo

The 15 Best Day Trips from Tokyo

While Tokyo is probably the most exciting city on earth, after a few days of nonstop shopping , eating , and sightseeing , there’s a small to medium chance you might be yearning for a change of scenery. If Kyoto and Osaka aren’t next on your list—and if you don’t feel like booking a night in an expensive ryokan or hotel outside of the city—there are dozens of great places just outside Tokyo that are suitable for an easy day trip, or a more ambitious one if you're up for it. We’ve put together an expansive list of these short excursions, with insider tips on how to get there and what to do. 

Nagano: Olympic Playground

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Nagano first took the world stage during the 1998 Olympics and is surprisingly easy to visit from Tokyo in a day thanks to the speedy bullet train. Between December and March, Nagano is one of the best places to ski in Japan , but there's a lot more going on in the winter than just snow sports. You can also see the snow walls of the Tateyama Snow Corridor, which hug the sides of Japan's highest road, or visit the favorite hot springs of the wild snow monkey population.

In warmer weather, there are many hiking trails in this mountainous area, such as the one to Hakuba Happo Pond or you can take the two-hour hike up to Togakushi Shrine, a sacred area with major significance in Japanese mythology. If you prefer to stay in town you can also visit the Zenko-ji Temple is home to the statue of Buddha ever to be brought to Japan.

Getting There: Nagano can be reached from Tokyo with a 90-minute ride on the Shinkansen bullet train

Travel Tip: Be sure to pick up a few oyaki dumplings while you're in town. These savory and portable stuffed dumplings are a stable of Nagano and make great snacks for the road.

Matsumoto: The Crow Castle

Matsumoto is a bit far and hard to reach from Tokyo, but if you're going to Nagano, which is an hour away by car. it's worth it to make it out to Matsumoto. Best known for its impressive 16th-century castle, Matsumoto is a charming town with interesting attractions like the Timepiece Museum , but Matsumoto Castle—also known as the Crow Castle—is what everyone comes to see. One of Japan's most famous structures, its black exterior makes it a striking sight to behold and its history as the seat of the shogun is just as interesting. The keep of the castle is the most prominent structure, but a wander through the grounds also offers a chance to see the surrounding towers and the inner and outer gates.

Getting There: The fastest way to get to Matsumoto is to take the bullet train to Nagano and then transfer, but you can also take a longer but more direct route on the Azusa Express Train. This takes about 3 hours, which is 30 minutes longer than transferring from Nagano.

Travel Tip: It's worth checking for ongoing events in Matsumoto because the castle town holds many fun and cultural festivals throughout the year, like the Taiko drum festival in July and the ice sculpture festival in January.

Takasaki: Origin of Daruma

Not many visitors make it out to Takasaki, but those that do will find that the town is rich in daruma , the good-luck charms with sometimes angry faces. If you've become fond of these brightly-colored charms on your travels in Japan, then a visit to the Jigenin Temple is a must-do. Here, you'll find daruma of all shapes and sizes, as well as different patterns and colors. You can also visit famous shops like Daimonya , which sells a wide variety of dolls with different colors and purposes, and take a short workshop to learn how to paint your own dolls.

Getting There: You can take the bullet train to Takasaki in about 50 minutes, or take the JR-East Takasaki Line, which will take about 2 hours.

Travel Tip: It's very popular to buy a new daruma doll after the new year, so during the first week of January, there is an annual market where you'll find a huge amount of dolls for sale.

Chichibu: Pink Fields

Matthew Stewart Bennett / Getty Images

Japan is known for the pink blossoms of its cherry trees, but in spring you can get your fill of even more pink flowers at Hitsujiyama Park in Chichibu of Yamanashi Prefecture . Every year, sometime between April and May, the park blossoms with pink moss, rolling out a carpet of vibrant flowers with shades from deep fuchsia to blush pink and violet. The park owes its springtime colors to the Shibazakura flower, also known as moss phlox. The flowers typically bloom at the end of the cherry blossom season, so it's a great chance to tick some pink flowers off your list if you miss the blossoms in Tokyo. Every year the flowers are planted in a way that will create fun and beautiful patterns for the next spring.

The best time to visit Chichibu is during the flower bloom, but all year round you can enjoy the town's surrounding natural attractions or go shopping on the Nakamise Shopping Street. Must-try dishes in Chichibu include a rice bowl with a big piece of pork (Waraji Katsudon) and Pork Miso Don. The town has an interesting history as a pilgrimage town so there are plenty of shrines and temples to see.

Getting There: From Ikebukuro Station take the Seibu Limited Express Chichibu train, which goes direct to Seibu-Chichibu Station in about 80 minutes. Once you arrive, the park is a 20-minute walk from the station.

Travel Tip: Crowds should be expected during the festival, so don't just stay in one spot taking pictures. The park also has hiking trails, a pond, a sheep ranch, and tennis courts.

Misaki Town: Tuna Markets

Segawa7 / Getty Images

Seafood lovers can prove their dedication by arriving in Misaki early enough to check out the seafood market, where fishermen come directly to bring that morning's catch. The main market closes early, but there are still plenty of places around the town where you can buy fresh fish, or experience it by going into one of the local restaurants to taste some of the freshest sushi Japan has to offer. It is also a great place to take a cooking class if you want to learn how to prepare your own rolls. Misaki's must-try dish is the maguro donburi, which is a tuna sashimi rice bowl. Misaki is one of Japan's largest tuna ports the quality of tuna is believed to be much better than what you'd find in Tokyo's Tsukiji Market .

Getting There: The easiest way to get to Misaki is by purchasing a day trip ticket from any Keikyu Line Station , except Sengakuji and Misakiguchi Stations. The ticket includes both a train and bus ticket and can be redeemed for discounts on meals and souvenirs.

Travel Tip: While visiting Misaki, you also have the option to cross the bridge to Jogashima Island, which has well-marked hiking trails and a historic working lighthouse.

Mount Fuji: Japan's Tallest Peak

Japan’s most iconic mountain is actually a volcano (don’t worry too much, it last erupted in 1708), and worth a day trip. Mount Fuji is only about 60 miles (100 kilometers) southwest of Tokyo, making it an easy nature getaway. Although you can see a light mirage of Mount Fuji from Tokyo on a clear day, it lacks the impact of seeing this mountain up close. With an elevation of 12,388 feet, it is the highest mountain in Japan and also one of the most climbed mountains in the world. The season to climb Mount Fuji is between July and August and it typically takes between eight and 12 hours to reach the summit.

Getting There: There are many options, one of which is to take a bus from Tokyo Station to Kawaguchiko Station or Fuji-Q Highland . Alternatively, take the Fuji Excursion Limited Express train from Shinjuku Station directly to Kawaguchiko Station (about 2 hours one way). 

Travel Tip: If you don’t feel like navigating the train or bus, there are lots of options for guided tours of Mount Fuji . 

Nikko: Home of an Elaborate Shinto Shrine

The town of Nikko is home to Tosho-gu , a Shinto shrine that dates back to the 17th century. Now a UNESCO World Heritage site, the shrine also functions as a grand mausoleum for Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun in Japan. Ieyasu is now actually considered a god (the “Great Deity of the East Shining Light”), and his final resting place is one of the most stunning shrines in the whole country. Considerably more rococo than other Shinto shrines (which tend to be simple structures of wood or stone) Tosho-gu is a lavish shrine complex, with no lack of gorgeous wood carvings and decorative gold leaf. The must-see spots are the Five-Story Pagoda, the Three Wise Monkeys carving, and the Kagura-den Dance Hall. Be sure to also visit Nikko National Park for a quick hike. Nikko is a forested town—so it’s guaranteed to be a breath of fresh air from the dizzying thicket of activity that is Tokyo. 

Getting There: From Asakusa station, take the Nikko-Kinugawa Toll Limited Express train towards Kinugawa Onsen, and disembark at Shimo-Imaichi station. From there, take a bus to the Tosho-gu shrine. The journey takes about 2.5 to 3 hours.

Travel Tip: Nikko and the area around Lake Chuzenji are at their most beautiful in the autumn months when the red leaves ( momoji ) are in full color. Also, check out Yumoto Onsen for some cozy hot springs, located in Nikko National Park. 

Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea: Cuteness Amplified

Guilhem Vellut / Flickr /  CC BY 2.0

Tokyo Disneyland was the first-ever Disney theme park built outside of the United States. It’s a very different experience from what you’ll find in the states—Japan’s special gift for amplifying and commodifying cuteness has made this park perhaps more enjoyable than the originals. Some recognizable Disney names and places are Cinderella’s castle in Fantasyland, Space Mountain in Tomorrowland, and Splash Mountain in Critter Country. Nearby is Tokyo DisneySea , a theme park that was created specifically for Tokyo Disneyland. It’s worth the visit, especially if you have kids in tow and want to experience what it’s like to visit a theme park in Japan. 

Getting There: There are shuttle buses from Tokyo station, but you can also take the JR (Japan Railways) Keiyo and Musashino Lines to Maihama Station. The ride takes about half an hour.

Travel Tip: Avoid visiting the park or on national holidays, such as Golden Week , which is one of the busiest times of year in Japan because people are given five days off from work.

Hakone: Natural Hot Springs

If you’re looking for a supreme onsen experience with views of Mount Fuji, then the vacation town of Hakone should be at the very top of your list. Hakone is easily accessible as a day trip from Tokyo and boasts some of the most stunning views of Japan’s most illustrious snow-capped mountain. Many onsens conveniently offer daytime passes, which grant you all-day access to the baths, showers, and facilities. A few hot spring spots cater directly to day-trippers, with towels available for purchase. ( Hakone Yuryo is one such spot). There’s also the option to take a cable car to see Owakudani, a volcanic hot spring area with many sulfurous springs.

Getting There: Take the Shinkansen to Odawara station , and transfer to a local bus. The whole journey should only take about an hour with the train and bus ride each lasting 30 minutes.

Travel Tip: If you want great views of Mount Fuji head to Hotel Green Plaza Hakone and relax in the hot spring. If you visit Owakudani, make sure to try the black eggs, or kuro tamago , which are cooked in the sulfurous water. 

Yokohama: Japan's Second Largest City

Yokohama is less known to tourists in the West, but it’s an admirable city all its own. Even though it lives in the shadow of Japan’s capital, Yokohama is Japan's second-largest city, with a population of over 3 million people. Less than a half-hour from Tokyo by train, Yokohama makes for the easiest day trip on this list. There’s more than meets the eye in this city—Yokohama is home to Japan’s largest Chinatown , where you can find some of the best Chinese food in Japan. It also offers the unique chance to see a Chinese temple in Japan. Built in 1873, Kanteibyo Temple is dedicated to the Chinese god of good business and prosperity.

If you’d rather see something more traditionally “Japanese,” check out Sankeikan Garden , a quaint landscape garden that offers respite from the surrounding cityscape. Finally, there’s the most famous area of Yokohama, Minato Mirai 21, the city’s main center of entertainment. There’s an iconic Ferris wheel, a high-rise observation deck, and a waterside promenade with lots of places to eat and drink.  If you’re an instant ramen lover, it’s worth checking out the Cup Noodles Museum .

Getting There: From Tokyo station, take either the Yokosuka Line or the Keihin-Tohoku Line to Yokohama station. There is also a ferry that takes about 90 minutes and leaves from Tokai Kisen.

Travel Tip: Hotels in Yokohama tend to be less expensive and since the train ride is only 30 minutes long to Shibuya Station, it may be worth considering as an alternative to accommodation in Tokyo.

Kamakura: Medieval Surf Town

Just south of Tokyo lies the idyllic seaside town of Kamakura. Once the political center of medieval Japan, Kamakura is now a bit of a surfing town, with several beachside hotels. Its most famous landmark is the Kotoku-in Temple’s Great Buddha , a 43-foot-tall bronze statue that is the perfect picture of meditative equanimity. Aside from the Great Buddha, there are many other stunning Buddhist temples here. Visit Hokokuji Temple to experience its peaceful bamboo grove.

If you’re visiting in June, head straight to Meigetsuin Temple , which is famous for being surrounded by flowering hydrangeas. Surfers should also make sure to make a trip to Yuigahama Beach, which is only a 20-minute ride from the train station

Getting There: For a no-transfer ride from Tokyo station to Kamakura station, take the Yokosuka Line Local bound for Zushi. The trip should take only about an hour. 

Travel Tip: If you want to try learning how to surf, there are surf schools on the beach that can give you a lesson in English.

Enoshima: Mysterious Island Caves

A stone’s throw from Kamakura, the island of Enoshima is another haven for surfers and beach-lovers. On clear days, you can also see Mount Fuji. There is a lot to do here, but probably one of the most compelling touristic options is a visit to the mysterious Iwaya Caves . If you feel like nurturing your inner adventurer, then this is the place for you. To get to the caves, you need to go up a series of stairs to a high point on the island, and then descend 220 steps back down to sea level. Then, holding a candle lantern, you’ll enter the first cave via a long, narrow tunnel. At the very end, there are statues of Buddha and other deities. The second cave is smaller and contains a statue of a once ferocious dragon, who’s now a tame local guardian.

Getting There: From Shinjuku station in Tokyo, board an Odakyu Line train towards Fujisawa and get off at Enoshima station (about an hour and 40 minutes). From Kamakura, take the Enoshima Dentetsu Line (Local), which should take about 50 minutes. 

Travel Trip: If you’d like to try a fish dish that’s not sushi, try the Shirasudon (Shirasu Donburi), one of Enoshima’s local delicacies. 

Mount Takao: Wild Monkey Park

Mount Takao is less famous than Fuji for international travelers, but it’s much-loved by Tokyoites, due to its lush scenery and easily accessible hiking areas. It’s not only easy to get to Mount Takao, but it’s also easy to explore. Even if you’re not the hiking type, Trail 1 is paved, making it easy to stroll through. This trail will also take you to most of the major sightseeing spots on Mount Takao, including a monkey park , where Japanese macaques roam and play to their hearts’ content. Admission to the monkey park grants you free entry to a wildflower garden that boasts over 500 different types of plants. Toward the summit of Mount Takao is Yakuoin . First built in the year 744, this Buddhist temple is part of a lineage of shugendo , a kind of mountain asceticism practiced by some Buddhist monks. 

Getting There: Take the Keio Line Limited Express towards Takaosanguchi from Shinjuku station and get off at the last stop. It should take about an hour to get to Takao. Once you're in Takao, you can head to Kiyotaki Station and take a cable car up to the top of the mountain.

Travel Tip: Take advantage of the day passes at Keio Takaosan Onsen Gokurakuyu , which has a variety of hot springs, including a carbonated bath. 

Sanrio Puroland: Hello Kitty and Friends

 Kakidai / Wikimedia Commons /  CC BY-SA 4.0

If you can’t get enough Hello Kitty merchandise, then Sanrio Puroland is the place for you. Puroland’s overwhelming cuteness is not for the faint of heart, meaning it’s definitely not for people who couldn’t care less about Sanrio characters. Yet even if you’re lukewarm about Gudetama, My Melody, and the rest, this indoor theme park might be what drives you into full-on fandom. There are many chances to meet the characters, as well as frequent performances that are more engaging for kids than adults. Don’t miss out on the boat ride and sample the pink My Melody curry or blue Cinnamon-Sky curry at the Sanriotown Character Food Court. 

Getting There: From Shibuya station, it’s an easy 45-minute train ride to Sanrio Puroland. Take the Keio-Inokashira Line Express towards Kichijoji and get off at Shimo-Kitazawa station. From there, board the Odakyu Line Express towards Karakida and disembark at Odakyu-Tama Center. Sanrio Puroland is about an eight-minute walk from the train station.

Travel Tip: The park isn't open every day, so you'll need to check the online calendar before you make your plans.

Kawagoe: Edo-Era History

Kawagoe is where you can go to get a taste of “old” Japan if you’re not going to Kyoto. On Kurazukuri Street you’ll find traditional warehouse buildings, many of which are now quaint cafes, restaurants, and shops. There’s also an entire street of sweet shops, nicknamed Candy Alley. After a morning of shopping and sightseeing, refuel with a lunch of eel and rice, one of Kawagoe’s specialty foods. Once known as "Little Edo," Kawagoe was a trade city with an important relationship with Tokyo. The two cities shared a similar culture and architecture style, but where Tokyo exploded into a modern metropolis, Kagowe has held onto more of its old-world charm. This makes it a great place to visit if you want to imagine what Tokyo was like hundreds of years ago.

Getting There: From Shinjuku Station, take the Kagawoe line train and get off at Kawagoe-shi, one of the last stops. It should take about an hour.

Travel Tip: The Toki no Kane Bell Tower only rings four times per day, so try to time your visit at either 6 a.m., 12 p.m., 3 p.m., or 6 p.m. to hear the impressive sound.

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  • 10 Best Day Trips from Tokyo

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

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

1. Kamakura

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

day trip 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.

day trip 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.

day trip 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.

day trip 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.

day trip 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.

day trip 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.

day trip from tokyo

8. Fuji-Q Highland

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

day trip 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.

day trip 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.

day trip from tokyo

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19 Awesome Day Trips From Tokyo

day trip 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

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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!

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    day trip from tokyo

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COMMENTS

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

    Last Updated:January 25, 2024. If you’re looking for the best day trips from Tokyo, this article will help you plan your vacation perfectly! Tokyo, the capital city of Japan, is an excellent place to base yourself for exploring the surrounding area.

  2. 13 best day trips for a weekend getaway from Tokyo

    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. Written by. Time...

  3. The 15 Best Day Trips from Tokyo

    The 15 Best Day Trips from Tokyo. Your Trip to Tokyo: The Complete Guide. SEE FULL GUIDE. Top Things to Do. Free Things to Do. Things to Do With Kids. Best Parks in Tokyo. Beaches Near Tokyo. Shopping in Tokyo. Top Markets to Visit. Food to Try in Tokyo. Tokyo's Top Restaurants. Nightlife in Tokyo. Best Time to Visit. Weather & Climate.

  4. 10 Best Day Trips from Tokyo

    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. Hakone.

  5. 10 Must-Do Day Trips from Tokyo, Japan

    The day trip to Kamakura from Tokyo is one of the most popular for both foreign travelers and Japanese city-dwellers. And there’s one (really) big reason. The Great Buddha of Kamakura (Kamakura Daibutsu), in front of Kōtoku-in, stands as one of the most famous images of ancient Japanese Buddhism.

  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.