Tokyo is one of the world’s largest, and most metropolitan cities, constantly buzzing with events, sights and attractions aplenty. However, venture beyond the city and you will discover plenty of hidden gems surrounding the city ripe for exploration. With Japan’s excellent and reliable public transport infrastructure, there is no excuse not to spend at least a day exploring the surrounding regions. From medieval Japanese towns, to picturesque natural landscapes and exhilarating theme parks, here are a few of our top picks for day trips from Tokyo.
Mt Fuji and Hakone
Need a break from city life? A day trip to Mt Fuji and the surrounding Hakone region to admire the breathtaking natural landscape and enjoy the fresh air is the perfect way to recharge. Surrounded by five magical lakes, Mt Fuji’s splendour must be seen to be believed. Enjoy the magnificent Mt Fuji from various viewing spots, or take in the spectacular views of Hakone and Mt Fuji as you ride on the Hakone Ropeway at the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Not to be missed is a pirate ship cruise on the serene Lake Ashi, as well as a trip to one of the town’s famous onsens (if time permits!). Situated within an area bubbling with geothermal activity, discover for yourself why Japanese flock to this scenic town for a weekend of relaxation at its various onsens.
Kamakura
Just half an hour away from Tokyo lies the historic city of Kamakura. This beautiful city is a popular day trip destination for both foreign tourists and locals, and is a must for lovers of Zen Buddhist shrines and temples. Offering a combination of fascinating temples and scenic beaches, the former medieval capital of Japan is most famous for its iconic Great Buddha of Kotokuin statue. This 11.3m tall copper statue of Buddha stands as one of the most famous images of ancient Japanese Buddhism, and will be sure to enchant you with both its immense size and intricate details. For the more adventurous, the Daibatsu walking trail, and the historic Benten-Kutsu cave are other noteworthy attractions to check out. Before making your way back to Tokyo, make a stop at the neighbouring island of Enoshima which offers various attractions such as a Shinto shrine, park, observation tower and caves. You can also see Mt. Fuji if the weather is not cloudy!
Nikko
Fascinating history and culture, beautiful natural landscapes and seasonal highlights, it’s no wonder that Nikko is a popular destination among those looking to get away from the bustling city. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most picturesque destinations in all of Japan with mountainous landscapes and beautiful architecture galore. Kick things off with a visit to the sacred Toshogu Shrine, before heading to the equally architecturally impressive Tamozawa Imperial Villa. Make your way through Nikko’s misty woodlands for the beautiful Kegon Waterfall and Lake Chuzenji, which are especially picturesque in autumn, before rounding it off with a dip in Nikko’s hot springs to soothe your weary body and recharge for the journey back to Tokyo.
Yokohama
Japan’s 2nd largest city may not be known for having a plethora of attractions, but don’t let that discourage you from taking a short 30 min train ride to explore the city for yourself. Much quieter than Tokyo, this port city is a major commercial centre with an interesting mix of entertainment, shopping and cultural attractions. Apart from the serene Sankaien Garden, popular attractions include Seaside Park and Osanbashi Pier – though Yokohama is perhaps most famous for its food culture.
The city is home to the largest Chinatown in Japan with restaurants offering Japanese-Chinese dishes, and is also known worldwide for its “Yokohama lekei Ramen”. The fun doesn’t stop there, however, as Yokohama also offers a Ramen Museum – an interactive noodle experience that recreates a piece of Yokohama from the 1950s – and the Cup Noodle Museum where you are allowed to make and customise your own cup noodles. For ramen lovers, or those seeking a food adventure, Yokohama is the place to be.
Kawagoe
Step back in time to the Edo period on a day trip to Kawagoe. Widely known for its Edo-period architecture, this delightful small town is only a 30-minute train ride away from central Tokyo. Stroll along Kawagoe’s atmospheric Kurazukuri Street as you take in the sights of well-preserved merchant warehouses now converted into shops and restaurants, or satisfy your sweet tooth at Kashiya Yokocho (Candy Alley). This narrow alleyway has been entirely dedicated to small shops selling traditional Japanese sweets, ranging from ice cream and rice crackers to red bean cakes and deep-fried cookies. A small town packed with history and culture, it is well worth taking the day to explore this historic town (and of course, hunt for unique souvenirs).
Nagano
For one of the most unique experiences to have in Japan, make the hour and a half trip northwest of Tokyo to Nagano. Besides its soothing hot springs, Nagano’s claim to fame lies in the cheeky snow monkeys who love a dip in the heated waters during the winter months. These bathing snow monkeys are one of the most peculiar and unique sights to catch while in Japan and should be on everyone’s bucket list. Beyond the snow monkeys, Nagano is also home to the 7th-century Zenko-ji temple, one of the country’s most well-known treasures. Don’t leave without slurping down some soba, a Nagano speciality!
Disneyland and Disneysea
Meet and mingle with all your favourite characters, and experience the Disney magic for yourself at Tokyo’s biggest and most popular theme parks: Disneyland and Disneysea. A must-visit for both kids and the young at heart, Tokyo’s Disneyland and Disneysea are simply a dream destination offering rides and attractions aplenty, including a full-sized Cinderella Castle! Spending the day at either, or both, of these theme parks, is sure to have you and your travel companions laughing and creating lasting memories for hours on end. With the parks sitting just outside of Tokyo, escape from daily life at the Happiest Place on Earth!
Fuji-Q Highland
Looking for an adrenaline-pumping, heart-pounding, and thrilling experience? Look no further than Fuji Q Highland, Japan’s craziest amusement parks. Home to several of the world’s record-breaking rollercoasters, the rides at Fuji Q Highlands are sure to provide enough of a rush to satisfy even the biggest adrenaline junkie! For those looking for something a little tamer, don’t fret as the theme park also offers many slower-paced attractions and rides that are fun for all such as the anime-themed area and more traditional, kid-friendly rides. Located in the Fuji Five Lake region at the foot of Mount Fuji, visitors can enjoy a magnificent view of the mountain while enjoying the attractions (talk about killing two birds with one stone)!
