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 these can be explored and seen in one day, although some of them you will enjoy more with a stay overnight. We’ve summarised each of our suggestions, follow the links to the blog pages for more info – have fun exploring!
Mount Takao
If you are looking to get out of the city and into nature, Mount Takao is the perfect day trip from Tokyo. There are lots of different paths up the Mountain from bush walks to roads and chairlifts, so no matter your fitness level you will find something that suits you. On a clear day you will have distant views of Mount Fuji. Make sure to stop in at a restaurant in the village at the bottom of the mountain, as they all serve amazing local food.
Great trip for: nature walks, local food.
Kamakura
Just South of Tokyo is the beautiful Kamakura, known for its green tea, giant budda statue, nature walks and of course the famous Komachi-dori shopping street.
Kamakura is only about an hour by train and can easily be a full day trip or spend a half day and half day in Enoshima.
Great trip for: shopping, nature walks, local food.
Enoshima
Continuing on from Kamakura via a cute little green and yellow train which winds and squeezes its way between houses and pops out to follow the coast to the beaches of Enoshima. In summer, this is a popular black sand beach to visit for a swim. All year round it’s known for its seafood and the legend of the dragon of Enoshima Island.
Great trip for: nature walks, local food.
Fuji Five Lakes and Fuji Q Highland
Fuji Q theme park is known for some of the fastest rides and thrilling roller coasters. There are a number of day tours from Tokyo to Fuji Q.
Great trip for: nature walks, caves, historical housing, local food, theme park, views of Mount Fuji.
Hakone
Hakone is known as the Tokyoites spot for a weekend away. The area boasts onsens and views of Mount Fuji. It is possible as a day trip but to really relax and have the full onsen experience with kaiseki meals and tatami rooms, a stay overnight in a ryoken is recommended. The main sights of Hakone are dotted along a circuit with five different modes of transport which makes the journey half the fun. This area is known for parquetry so make sure you take time to check out the local handicrafts.
Great trip for: traditional accommodation, onsens, handicrafts, nature, local food, views of Mount Fuji.
Karuizawa
If you are looking for a day trip that requires a shinkansen ride and provides nature and great food then this is the day trip for you. Karuizawa is popular for autumn leaves but it’s beautiful all year round. This area is know for apples and jams and apple pie so make sure you take some home! It is also known for soba noodles so a stop for soba for lunch is a must while you are here. There are a number of sights to see some within walking distance of each other and some a short bus ride from Karuizawa station.
There is also a massive outlet shopping area near Karuizawa station if you have time to fit that in as well!
Great trip for: nature, local food, shopping.
Matsumoto
Matsumoto is famous for its dramatic crow castle and the town has been likened to Kyoto without the crowds. It’s a lesser traveled area for tourists so if you are looking for a slower pace, this might be perfect for you. The castle and a number of shopping streets are within walking distance from the train station or you can hire a bike. The area is flat and easy to get around by bike, or take the sneaker bus that visits all the sights. This area is known for soba so this is a must while you are here or perhaps you would enjoy a soba making class. The Matsumoto Art Museum also has a permanent exhibition of Yayoi Kusama, well worth the visit while here.
Great trip for: castle, bike riding, shopping, local food, art.
Each of these destinations give another glimpse into some of the wonderful places of Japan. No matter where your adventure takes you, you can come back to Tokyo at the end of the day and recharge ready for the next adventure!
Here are some websites with more ideas and please tell us your favourite trips!
Best Day trips from Tokyo – Qantas
JNTO 10 Best Day trips from Tokyo
