Day trips from Tokyo: adventure beyond the capital

Tokyo is a bucket-list trip for many. Offering bright lights and a big city, the appeal is undeniable. Yet, Japan’s capital isn’t the country’s only gem. With so many unique neighbouring cities, there are a variety of day trips from Tokyo you can take when holidaying in the country. From the natural landscapes of Enoshima to the culture-rich essence of Nikko, it’s time to explore all that Japan has to offer.

Kawasaki offers a mix of both serenity and upbeat entertainment, so if you’re planning on staying overnight, you can pick your vibe for each day you stay in this city. For those who prefer the quieter side of life, make sure to stop by Kawasaki Daishi Temple and Ikuta Ryokuchi Park. Kawasaki Daishi Temple is a sacred site for the Chizan School of Shingon Buddhism, founded in 1128 C.E.. Witness the rituals and practices of locals and soak in the spiritual atmosphere.

After more of an energetic day trip? Well, Kawasaki delivers on that too. Yomiuri Land is an entertainment haven that boasts roller coasters, a Ferris wheel and rides that everyone is sure to enjoy – great if you’re travelling with the whole family.

Getting there:

• Approximately one hour by train
• Around 25 kilometres by car

In search of some magic on your holiday to Japan? Tokyo Disneyland offers the familiar thrills and fun that are so characteristically Disney. Expect adrenaline-pumping rides such as Big Thunder Mountain and Haunted Mansion amongst tamer thrills like interacting with Minnie Mouse and the gang. 

There’s many other forms of entertainment in the theme park, including exclusive attractions such as Monsters, Inc. Ride & Go Seek and live shows that include a fireworks show at Cinderella Castle. If you’re in search of world-class entertainment, you’ll find that, and more, with a day pass to Tokyo Disneyland.

Getting there:

• Approximately one and a half hours by train
• Around 28 kilometres by car

If you love nothing more than the coast, Enoshima is just the escape for you. Enjoy its sun-drenched coasts and blue-hued seas. In search of some fresh seafood? Here, you can dive into classic coastal dishes such as grilled squid amongst some regional specialities such as shirasu (whitebait), seafood chowder croquettes and kaisen-don (seafood rice bowls). 

Hoping to get up to some exploration on your getaway? Well, the Iwaya Caves offer just that. Giving a full immersion into Japanese history, the caves’ first historical mention dates back to 552 C.E.! Upon entering the ancient natural wonder, you can expect winding trails, tales of folklore and intriguing soundscapes.

Getting there:

• Approximately two hours by train
• Around 52 kilometres by car

For those interested in Japan’s culture, Kamakura is a must when it comes to day trips in Japan. Here you can explore the temples, buddhas, mountains and shrines dotted throughout the city that give a palpable feel to Kamakura’s identity.

This city is home to the Great Buddha, which you can take extensive tours of to understand its place in Japanese culture. For example, the 6-hour Private Guided Tour and Kimono Experience grants you the opportunity to wear traditional clothing and have your hair done, before you walk around the Great Buddha and take photos.

Getting there:

• Approximately two hours by train
• Around 53 kilometres by car

Kawagoe, more colloquially known as Little Edo, offers a mix of quaint shops, an Edo-era essence and traditional architecture. Tokyo and Kawagoe actually have an intertwined past, where in the Edo period, Kawagoe supplied Tokyo with various commodities, meaning nowadays, Edo culture and architecture are still prominent in Kawagoe.

Got a sweet tooth? Kashiya Yokocho (Sweet Alley) is sure to tick all your boxes. Featuring over 20 confectionery stores, you’ll be able to try out local delicacies such as sweet potato snacks, warabimochi (a type of rice cake) and karinto (deep-fried biscuits). Sweet stuff aside, there’s a variety of activities you can get up to in the area, including making your own chopsticks and sushi-making workshops.

Getting there:

• Approximately two hours by train
• Around 39 kilometres by car

If you’re hoping to spend most of your time outdoors on your day trip from Tokyo, Chichibu is a great place to connect with nature. Feel immersed in the area’s steep mountains, clear lakes and wide valleys. Chichibu is also a hotspot for the production of fermented delicacies such as miso and wine. In search of fresh produce? Stop by Ashigakubo, which is known as ‘fruit village’, where you can sample the crispest seasonal plums, strawberries and grapes.

There’s also a variety of cultural activities you can get up to, with a standout activity including the Chichibu Night Festival. This famous Japanese festival, held annually on 2–3 December, brings the night to life. Here, you can enjoy floats, fireworks and live music under the expansive, inky dark sky.

Getting there:

• Approximately two and a half hours by train
• Around 95 kilometres by car

Hakone offers both a natural landscape and a calm atmosphere, making it one of the best day trips from Tokyo for a peaceful vibe. In the town, you’ll find Lake Ashi – a body of water formed by a volcanic crater. While swimming is prohibited, you can take a leisure boat or a pirate ship across the body of water.

Also great for relaxation, Hakone is known for its onsens (hot springs), where you can soak away the busyness of Tokyo. A particularly popular onsen is found in Gora Kadan. Known for its serene backdrop and traditional decor with modern furnishings, this is the perfect place to plunge into peacefulness.

Top tip: if you have tattoos, check to see if you’re visiting a tattoo-friendly onsen as policies vary across Japan.

Getting there:

• Approximately two and a half hours by train
• Around 80 kilometres by car

Mount Fuji and Fujikawaguchiko, located at the foothills of the mountain, offer a profound connection with nature and a change of pace from Tokyo. Mount Fuji offers unparalleled natural beauty and is especially breathtaking in spring when the cherry blossoms are in full swing. Up for a challenge? Well, Mount Fuji can be climbed in a day between July and early September: it’s time to dust off those hiking boots.

And Fujikawaguchiko, Mount Fuji’s bordering town, is just the spot to soak up each and every angle of the mountain. Lake Kawaguchiko offers an outstanding view point, as the body of water offers a mirror-like reflection of the mountain. You’ll also have the option to hike and cycle around Fujikawaguchiko, so you can enjoy the panoramic scenery.

Getting there:

• Approximately two and a half hours by train
• Around 100 kilometres to Fujikawaguchiko and 130 kilometres to Mount Fuji by car

For lovers of culture, Nikko offers insight into some of the best of Japan’s identity. Here, you’ll find the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Toshogu Shrine, a sacred site created as a memorial for Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate. Toshogu Shrine features traditional architecture and instantly recognisable carvings, such as the Three Monkeys. 

In Nikko, you’ll also find the eponymously named Nikko National Park – a natural marvel, full to the brim with lakes, hot springs and wild animals such as monkeys. Nearly covering an area of 115,000 hectares, this Japanese National Park is great if you’re after some outdoor adventure. There are a variety of walking trails, mountains and cycle paths all ready for you to explore.

Getting there:

• Approximately three hours by train
• Around 150 kilometres by car

Even if Tokyo is your first destination on your list, it doesn’t have to be the last. Just beyond the city limits lie mountains, ancient temples, coastal charm and soothing hot springs. So, whatever your interest – culture, history, entertainment or cuisine – these day trips from Tokyo offer unforgettable experiences and a different perspective of Japan.