Category: Destinations

Japan travel adventures with the family

Day trips from Tokyo

There is so much to see and do in Tokyo that it can be hard to fit everything in! However, sometimes it’s nice to stretch out and explore the wider Tokyo area without having to pack up and change accommodation. So here are a few ideas of day trips around the Tokyo area. Each of…
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Fuji Five Lakes

Fuji Five lakes area or Fujigoko is becoming more popular as a destination for tourists and I wonder why it has taken so long! The area boasts an amazing view of Mount Fuji which rises majestically, as a solitary peak, dominating the landscape. Pictures really don’t do it justice. Fuji Five lakes literally refers to…
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Tokyo views

It’s hard to really grasp the size of Tokyo from the ground. The best way to see the view is from one of Tokyo’s many viewing platforms – but which one! Our run down, in no particular order. Skytree Tokyo Skytree is an all rounder with the tallest and for me, the best view –…
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Kappabashi small dish

Tokyo Markets

There are a number of markets in Tokyo, these are our four favourites. They are spread around the city so no matter where you are sightseeing, there will be one or two you can visit. Tsukiji – Fish markets Tsukiji outer markets is one of the most popular markets in Tokyo. It’s on the site…
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daikoku car meet tokyo driving

Daikoku Car Meet

Tokyo drift in real life! This was one of the boys favourite experiences as teenagers in Japan. Pumping with excitement, neon lights (and yes some cop lights!) and revving engines. A true local experience and must do for any true rev head – and even those that aren’t. What exactly is Daikoku? Well, it’s a…
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Karuizawa pond reflection landscape

Karuizawa

Karuizawa is the perfect day trip from Tokyo to explore nature, local shopping and Udon. Karuizawa is an upmarket resort town in the mountains of Nagano prefecture and an hour from Tokyo by Shinkansen. Karuizawa is popular all times of the year, as an escape of the heat of summer, a place for skiing in…
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Enoshima Island

Enoshima is a small island off the coast of Kamakura and an easy day trip South of Tokyo. Enoshima Island is known for its legend of a five headed dragon. It is said that Benzaiten, the goddess of good fortune, arts, music and knowledge, subdued a five headed dragon that was terrorising the area. He…
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Kamakura

Kamakura is an easy day trip South of Tokyo, it boasts shopping, mountain trails and a giant buddha statue. Shopping street From Kamakura station to the Tsurugaoka shrine is Komachi-dori street, excellent spot for shopping! From traditional crafts to dried fruits, chocolates and Japanese anime characters. And of course lots of places to stop and…
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Nakasendo trail forest

Nakasendo trail

The Nakasendo trail meanders through Japan’s impressive natural scenery and forests, stopping along the way at traditional towns of a bygone era. The Nakasendo trail, also known as the Nakasendo Way is the old trading route between Kyoto and Edo (now Tokyo). Some parts of this historic trail still exist and have been faithfully restored…
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Narai

Nari also known as Narai-juku (juku means post town) is a traditional town on the Nakasendo trail, the old trading route between Kyoto to Edo (now Tokyo). Narai was the half way point and the wealthiest of the post towns. It boasts the longest stretch of houses and ryokan along the 1km main street which…
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