5 Day Trips From Tokyo

If you don’t have much time in Japan, one way to discover more of Japan’s history, culture, landmarks, and natural highlights is to take a day trip from the city. Besides visiting Japan’s main cities like Tokyo, Nagoya, Osaka and Kyoto, it’s great to explore some of the quieter areas to experience the great variety that Japan has to offer.

There are plenty of destinations that are ideal for a day trip from Tokyo where you can enjoy a break from the bustling of the city. Most of them can be easily reached by public transportation and all tourist information are available in English. If you want a customized experience to learn more about the Japanese culture, take a tour with a local guide who will make your day trip from Tokyo unforgettable.

Kamakura

Kamakura is one of the most popular day trips from Tokyo due to its relaxed atmosphere, the short ride required to get there, and the many sightseeing spots. The famous Big Buddha, a bamboo forest, and many zen shrines are only some of the things that you can see in Kamakura. Kamakura is well known for its Kyoto style – temples and shrines galore. There are also great light hiking options and a popular coastal area that people love to go to when it’s summer. During the rainy season, Kamakura is a beautiful day trip from Tokyo where one can enjoy hydrangea blossoming.

Kawagoe

Go back in time with a 30 minute train ride from Ikebukuro to visit Kawagoe, also known as “Ko-Edo”, the small Tokyo of Edo era. The main attraction of Kawagoe is the Edo-period architecture, such as the bell tower and wooden houses, as well as Kawagoe Castle Honmaru Residence and Hikawa Shrine. Something to not miss in Kawagoe are the sweet shops; there is a whole street dedicated to the traditional stores known as Candy Alley. It’s heaven for the sweet-toothed traveler.

For those interested in Buddhism, the Kita-in is a must-visit. Not only does it feature ruins of an Edo Castle, it is also home to over 500 stone statues of Lord Buddha and his disciples.

Mount Fuji

Mount Fuji is the icon that everyone wants to spot during a trip to Japan. To be sure to see it, the best option is to take a day trip from Tokyo to the area of Kawaguchiko. There are many activities in the Kawaguchiko area, including the FujiQ amusement park.

Oshino Hakkai and Chureito Pagoda are two famous photo spots that offer scenic views of Mount Fuji. 5 Lakes area is a good option, both as a day trip from Tokyo or overnight, and the local bus makes traveling around the area easy.

It’s possible to climb Mount Fuji, but only during climbing season from mid-July to mid-September.

Sawara

In Chiba Prefecture, there are many unknown towns that are worth a visit and that can easily be visited as a day trip from Tokyo. In Sawara, Katori City, you can walk along a small river surrounded by ancient merchant houses or ride a traditional boat to enjoy this old-style atmosphere.

Other than the traditional downtown, there is also the Katori Jinja, a shrine particularly beautiful during momiji season. For shrine lovers, it’s also recommended to visit the Kashima Jingu nearby in Ibaraki prefecture; it’s strongly connected to the deers of Nara Park.

Hakone

Hakone is the most popular onsen destination from Tokyo that’s a great day trip from Tokyo. You’ll be amazed at the power of Japan’s nature. The impressive Owakudani Valley is where you can eat a black egg cooked by the geothermal steam of the area. Taking a cruise on the beautiful Ashinoko Lake and relaxing in a onsen are some of the activities that you can enjoy in Hakone. Furthermore, there are over a dozen museums in the area; take your pick from wandering around the Hakone Open Air Museum to Impressionism collections at the Pola Museum.

For Hakone, it’s recommended to stay overnight in a ryokan. This is one of the highlights of our One Week Classic Tour.

Kamakura

Kamakura Day Trip

Kawagoe

Mount Fuji

Mount Fuji Views Tour

Sawara

Hakone

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