Tokyo is a fantastic base for exploring nearby destinations, each offering unique cultural experiences and natural beauty. With an extensive rail network and efficient transportation, it’s easy to discover nearby gems in a single day. Here are 10 of the best day trips from Tokyo that every first-time visitor should consider.
1. Hakone
Hakone is one of the most popular day trips from Tokyo, known for its natural beauty and relaxing hot springs. Just a short journey from the city, Hakone offers breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, scenic boat rides on Lake Ashi, and the unique experience of the Hakone Ropeway over Owakudani Valley.
Best Places and Experiences
- Lake Ashi: Take a cruise on this scenic lake with views of Mount Fuji.
- Hakone Shrine: A picturesque shrine with a torii gate overlooking Lake Ashi.
- Owakudani: Visit this volcanic valley to see sulfur vents and enjoy black eggs boiled in the hot springs.
- Hakone Open-Air Museum: Discover outdoor sculptures set against the natural scenery.
How to Get There
Easiest Way:
- Transportation Type: Romancecar (direct train from Shinjuku)
- Explanation: The Odakyu Limited Express Romancecar provides a comfortable ride directly to Hakone-Yumoto Station.
- Time: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
- Cost: Around ¥2,500 one-way.
Cheapest way:
- Transportation Type: Odakyu Line Rapid Express
- Explanation: Take the Odakyu Line Rapid Express from Shinjuku to Odawara, then switch to the local Hakone Tozan train.
- Time: Approximately 2 hours.
- Cost: Around ¥1,300 one-way.
Basic Itinerary
- Morning: Arrive at Hakone-Yumoto and head to Hakone Shrine.
- Mid-morning: Head to Lake Ashi for a boat cruise.
- Afternoon: Take the Hakone ropeway, explore Owakudani and taste the black eggs.
- Late afternoon: Finish your day at the Hakone Open-Air Museum.
2. Kamakura
Kamakura is a must-visit when choosing day trips from Tokyo. Just an hour away from the city, Kamakura is famous for its Great Buddha (Daibutsu), serene temples like Hasedera, and beautiful hiking trails. You can walk along the charming Komachi Street, explore the tranquil bamboo groves of Hokokuji Temple, and relax by the seaside at Yuigahama Beach.
Best Places and Experiences
- Kotoku-in (Great Buddha): A giant bronze Buddha statue that’s over 11 meters tall.
- Hasedera Temple: Known for its beautiful gardens and stunning view of the coastline.
- Tsurugaoka Hachimangu: A major Shinto shrine surrounded by seasonal flowers.
- Komachi Street: A lively street lined with shops, cafes, and local treats.
1-Day Tour Suggestion
Kamakura & Enoshima 1-Day Bus Tour from Tokyo.
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How to Get There
Easiest Way:
- Transportation Type: JR Yokosuka Line
- Explanation: Take the JR Yokosuka Line from Tokyo Station to Kamakura Station.
- Time: Approximately 1 hour.
- Cost: Around ¥950 one-way.
Cheapest way:
- Transportation Type: JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line
- Explanation: Take the JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line from Shinjuku Station to Kamakura Station.
- Time: Approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes.
- Cost: Around ¥950 one-way.
Basic Itinerary
- Morning: Visit the Great Buddha at Kotoku-in.
- Mid-morning: Head to Hasedera Temple to explore its beautiful gardens.
- Afternoon: Walk to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine.
- Late afternoon: Stroll along Komachi Street and enjoy local snacks.
3. Yokohama
Yokohama, just 30 minutes from Tokyo, is a dynamic port city with a mix of modern attractions and cultural highlights. It’s home to Japan’s largest Chinatown, filled with colorful streets and delicious food options. Yokohama is an ideal destination for exploring contemporary and historical Japan in a single trip.
Best Places and Experiences
- Minato Mirai: Explore this waterfront area known for shopping, dining, and the landmark Cosmo Clock 21 Ferris wheel.
- Yokohama Chinatown: The largest Chinatown in Japan, filled with restaurants and shops.
- Sankeien Garden: A traditional Japanese garden with historic buildings and seasonal flowers.
- Cup Noodles Museum: Learn about the history of instant noodles and create your own.
How to Get There
Easiest Way:
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- Transportation Type: JR Tokaido Line
- Explanation: Take the JR Tokaido Line from Tokyo Station to Yokohama Station.
- Time: Approximately 30 minutes.
- Cost: Around ¥500 one-way.
Cheapest way:
- Transportation Type: Tokyu Toyoko Line
- Explanation: Take the Tokyu Toyoko Line from Shibuya Station to Yokohama Station.
- Time: Approximately 30 minutes.
- Cost: ¥350 one-way.
Basic Itinerary
- Morning: Start with a stroll around Minato Mirai and a ride on the Cosmo Clock 21.
- Mid-morning: Visit the Cup Noodles Museum.
- Afternoon: Enjoy lunch in Chinatown and explore the area.
- Late afternoon: Head to Sankeien Garden for a peaceful walk.
4. Nikko
Nikko is a popular choice for day trips from Tokyo, because of its natural beauty and cultural heritage. Known for the UNESCO-listed Toshogu Shrine, Nikko is also home to incredible landscapes like Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji. This charming town in the mountains invites visitors to explore its ancient temples, scenic trails, and traditional hot springs.
Best Places and Experiences
- Toshogu Shrine: A lavishly decorated shrine dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu.
- Shinkyo Bridge: A picturesque red bridge over the Daiya River.
- Kegon Falls: A 97-meter waterfall with an observation deck.
- Lake Chuzenji: A scenic lake ideal for relaxing and taking photos.
How to Get There
Easiest Way:
- Transportation Type: Limited Express Spacia (Tobu Railway)
- Explanation: Take the Tobu Limited Express Spacia from Asakusa Station to Tobu-Nikko Station.
- Time: Approximately 2 hours.
- Cost: ¥2,800 one-way.
Cheapest way:
- Transportation Type: Tobu Rapid Train
- Explanation: Take the Tobu Rapid Train from Asakusa Station to Tobu-Nikko Station (multiple transfers).
- Time: Approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes.
- Cost: Around ¥1,400 one-way.
Basic Itinerary
- Morning: Arrive at Nikko and visit Toshogu Shrine.
- Mid-morning: Walk across Shinkyo Bridge and explore the surrounding area.
- Afternoon: Take a bus to Kegon Falls and enjoy the view.
- Late afternoon: Relax by Lake Chuzenji before heading back.
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5. Kawagoe
Kawagoe, often called “Little Edo,” is a perfect choice for day trips from Tokyo, providing a glimpse into Japan’s Edo-period past. This historic town is known for its well-preserved Kurazukuri warehouse district, with traditional clay-walled buildings and nostalgic streets. Its an ideal destination to experience old-world Japan without going too far from the capital.
Best Places and Experiences
- Kurazukuri Street: A street lined with well-preserved traditional storehouses.
- Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine: A popular shrine for matchmaking and good luck.
- Kashiya Yokocho: A candy alley with traditional sweets and snacks.
- Toki no Kane (Bell of Time): A historic bell tower that symbolizes the city.
How to Get There
Easiest and cheapest way:
- Transportation Type: Tokyo Metro and Tobu Tojo Line
- Explanation: Take the Tokyo Metro from Tokyo Station to Ikebukuro, then take the Tobu Tojo Line to Kawagoe Station.
- Time: Approximately 50 minutes.
- Cost: ¥700 one-way.
Basic Itinerary
- Morning: Start your day at Kurazukuri Street, exploring the historic buildings.
- Mid-morning: Visit Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine and stroll through its grounds.
- Afternoon: Head to Kashiya Yokocho for some traditional snacks.
- Late afternoon: Stop by Toki no Kane and snap a photo of the iconic bell tower.
6. Enoshima
Enoshima is a small island off the coast of Kanagawa Prefecture, and is a popular option for day trips from Tokyo. It offers a mix of scenic views, cultural sites, and beachside relaxation, just like Kamakura. Indeed, these two locations are often combined on a single day trip.
Best Places and Experiences
- Enoshima Shrine: A historic shrine with beautiful gates and views.
- Enoshima Sea Candle: A lighthouse observation deck offering stunning vistas of Sagami Bay and Mount Fuji on clear days.
- Iwaya Caves: Natural caves with a historical significance, set along the rocky coastline.
- Beaches: Ideal for walking, sunbathing, or enjoying fresh seafood at nearby restaurants.
How to Get There
Easiest and Cheapest way:
- Transportation Type: Odakyu Line Express and Enoden Line
- Explanation: Take the Odakyu Line Express from Shinjuku Station to Fujisawa Station, then switch to the Enoden Line to Katase-Enoshima Station.
- Time: Approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.
- Cost: ¥700 one-way.
Basic Itinerary
- Morning: Arrive and visit Enoshima Shrine for a peaceful start.
- Mid-morning: Walk to the Enoshima Sea Candle and enjoy the panoramic views.
- Afternoon: Explore the Iwaya Caves and nearby walking trails.
- Late afternoon: Relax on the beach and enjoy some seafood before heading back.
7. Kawaguchiko (Lake Kawaguchi)
Kawaguchiko is one of the best day trips from Tokyo for those looking to experience Japan’s iconic mountain and its natural beauty. The town is famous for its scenic Lake Kawaguchi, with breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, especially during cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons. Kawaguchiko is an excellent choice for nature lovers and anyone wanting to capture that perfect view of Japan’s most famous peak.
Best Places and Experiences
- Mount Fuji Panoramic Ropeway: A cable car ride offering a spectacular view of Mount Fuji and the surrounding lakes.
- Oishi Park: A scenic lakeside park with seasonal flowers and great photo opportunities.
- Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum: A European-themed museum with beautiful gardens and antique musical instruments.
- Sightseeing Boat: Enjoy a leisurely cruise on Lake Kawaguchi for close-up views of the mountains.
How to Get There
Easiest Way:
- Transportation Type: Limited Express Fuji Excursion (JR Chuo Line)
- Explanation: Take the Limited Express Fuji Excursion from Shinjuku Station to Kawaguchiko Station.
- Time: Approximately 2 hours.
- Cost: Around ¥4,200 one-way.
Cheapest way:
- Transportation Type: Highway Bus from Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal
- Explanation: Take the highway bus directly from Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal to Kawaguchiko Station.
- Time: Approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.
- Cost: Around¥2,200 one-way.
Basic Itinerary
- Morning: Start with a ride on the Mount Fuji Panoramic Ropeway.
- Mid-morning: Explore Oishi Park for seasonal flowers and photo opportunities.
- Afternoon: Visit the Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum.
- Late afternoon: Take a sightseeing boat ride on Lake Kawaguchi.
8. Mount Takao
Mount Takao is another popular choice for day trips from Tokyo. Located just about an hour away, it’s known for its scenic hiking trails, lush forests, and cultural sites. Visitors can take a leisurely hike to the summit or opt for a cable car ride up, enjoying panoramic views of the Tokyo skyline and even Mount Fuji on clear days.
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Best Places and Experiences
- Takaosan Yakuoin Temple: A historical temple midway up the mountain, where you can experience traditional prayers.
- Mount Takao Observatory Deck: Offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and, on clear days, Mount Fuji.
- Monkey Park: A small park with monkeys and a wildflower garden.
- Hiking Trails: Several trails cater to different levels, with paved and natural paths.
How to Get There
Easiest and cheapest way:
- Transportation Type: Keio Line
- Explanation: Take the Keio Line from Shinjuku Station to Takaosanguchi Station.
- Time: Approximately 55 minutes.
- Cost: Around ¥450 one-way.
Basic Itinerary
- Morning: Hike up to Takaosan Yakuoin Temple and explore the temple grounds.
- Mid-morning: Continue to the observatory deck for panoramic views.
- Afternoon: Visit the Monkey Park or explore different trails.
- Late afternoon: Relax at a local café before returning to Tokyo.
9. Chichibu
Chichibu is a hidden gem perfect for day trips from Tokyo. Located about 90 minutes from central Tokyo, this area is famous for its picturesque landscapes, ancient shrines, and seasonal festivals like the Chichibu Night Festival. Surrounded by mountains, it offers a taste of traditional Japan with amazing landscapes, making it a great day trip for nature lovers.
Best Places and Experiences
- Mitsumine Shrine: A beautiful mountain-top shrine known for its long history and scenic surroundings.
- Hitsujiyama Park: Famous for its breathtaking pink moss (shibazakura) fields during spring.
- Nagatoro River Boat Ride: A thrilling boat ride through scenic gorges with stunning rock formations.
- Chichibu Night Festival: If you visit in December, don’t miss this vibrant festival with decorated floats.
How to Get There
Easiest Way:
- Transportation Type: Limited Express Chichibu (Seibu Railway)
- Explanation: Take the Seibu Railway Limited Express Chichibu from Ikebukuro Station to Seibu-Chichibu Station.
- Time: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
- Cost: Around ¥1,700 one-way.
Cheapest way:
- Transportation Type: Seibu Ikebukuro Line (rapid trains)
- Explanation: Take the Seibu Ikebukuro Line rapid train from Ikebukuro Station to Seibu-Chichibu Station (1 transfer).
- Time: Approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.
- Cost: Around ¥800 one-way.
Basic Itinerary
- Morning: Start with a visit to Mitsumine Shrine, enjoying the scenic drive up the mountain.
- Mid-morning: Head to Hitsujiyama Park for a stroll through the pink moss fields (seasonal).
- Afternoon: Take a boat ride down the Nagatoro River and admire the beautiful rock formations.
- Late afternoon: Return to Chichibu town and explore local shops and eateries.
10. Izu Peninsula
The Izu Peninsula is a great getaway for day trips from Tokyo, and its known for its beautiful coastlines, hot springs, and picturesque landscapes. Located about two hours from Tokyo, the peninsula offers a mix of attractions, including beaches, scenic cliffs, and charming fishing villages. The Izu Peninsula is an ideal escape for first-time travelers looking to experience Japan’s diverse scenery.
Best Places and Experiences
- Atami Onsen: One of Japan’s oldest and most famous hot spring resorts.
- Jogasaki Coast: A dramatic coastline featuring rugged cliffs and a scenic suspension bridge.
- Izu Shaboten Zoo: A quirky zoo and botanical garden, famous for its resident capybaras who enjoy bathing in hot springs.
- Mount Omuro: An extinct volcano offering panoramic views of the peninsula and Mount Fuji on clear days.
How to Get There
Easiest Way:
- Transportation Type: JR Tokaido Shinkansen
- Explanation: Take the JR Tokaido Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Atami Station.
- Time: Around 45 minutes
- Cost: Around ¥3,800 one-way.
Cheapest way:
- Transportation Type: JR Tokaido Line (local trains)
- Explanation: Take the JR Tokaido Line local train from Tokyo Station to Atami Station.
- Time: Approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.
- Cost: Around ¥2,000 one-way.
Basic Itinerary
- Morning: Start at Atami Onsen for a relaxing hot spring bath.
- Mid-morning: Head to Jogasaki Coast for a scenic hike along the cliffs and suspension bridge.
- Afternoon: Visit the Izu Shaboten Zoo to see the adorable capybaras.
- Late afternoon: Ride the ropeway up Mount Omuro and enjoy the sunset views before heading back.
I’ve been to some of these sites more than once. Especially Kamakura, my favorite of all excursions. It offers hiking, strolling, shopping and many eateries and the perfect place to see a traditional outdoor Japanese Wedding ceremony. It’s a must see and do. I promise if you go to Kamakura once and see the iconic Buddha there, it will be a repeat visit time and time again. Thomas Fletcher (aka Fletcher san)