Tokyo is an incredible city with endless things to do, but sometimes it’s nice to venture out for a day or two to explore the surrounding areas. Whether you’re looking for natural beauty, historical landmarks, or cultural experiences, there are plenty of amazing places just a short trip away from the capital. Here are 10 recommended spots near Tokyo that you can easily visit for a day trip or weekend getaway.
1. Nikko (2 hours from Tokyo)
Best for: History, nature, and spiritual experiences.
Nikko, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is famous for its ornate Toshogu Shrine, which is dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate. The town is nestled in the mountains, offering beautiful scenery and the peaceful atmosphere of Nikko National Park. Visitors can also enjoy the stunning Kegon Falls and the serene Lake Chuzenji.
- Top Highlights:
- Toshogu Shrine: A lavishly decorated shrine surrounded by ancient cedar trees.
- Kegon Falls: A majestic 97-meter waterfall.
- Lake Chuzenji: Ideal for a boat ride or a peaceful walk.
How to Get There: Take the Tobu Limited Express from Asakusa Station or a JR train from Tokyo Station.
2. Kamakura (1 hour from Tokyo)
Best for: Historic temples, beaches, and scenic views.
Kamakura is a small coastal town that was once the political center of Japan during the Kamakura period. Known for its ancient temples, giant Buddha statue, and coastal beauty, Kamakura makes for an excellent getaway from the city. It’s also a great place to enjoy traditional Japanese culture with its quiet temples and nature.
- Top Highlights:
- Great Buddha (Daibutsu): A giant bronze statue standing 13.35 meters tall.
- Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine: Kamakura’s most important shrine, located near the main street.
- Kamakura Beaches: Great for a relaxing day by the ocean.
- Hydrangea:The best time to see them is from mid-June to mid-July
How to Get There: Take the JR Yokosuka Line from Tokyo Station to Kamakura Station.
3. Hayama (1 hour from Tokyo)
Best for: Relaxing by the sea, swimming, and sunset views
Nestled on the Miura Peninsula in Kanagawa Prefecture, Hayama is a peaceful coastal town just an hour south of Tokyo. Known for its scenic beaches, charming atmosphere, and natural beauty, Hayama offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. While it may not be as famous as nearby destinations like Kamakura or Yokohama, it’s a hidden gem for those looking to unwind, explore history, or enjoy outdoor activities along Japan’s Pacific coast.
- Top Highlights:
- Hayama Beach：Hayama’s beach is a serene and beautiful spot to escape the crowds of the more popular beach areas like Kanagawa’s Enoshima.
How to Get There: Take the JR Yokosuka Line from Tokyo Station to Zushi Station.
From Zushi Station, take a local bus to Hayama (about 10-15 minutes). Bus Fare is around ¥220-¥300.
Hayama Hotel Otowa no Mori was also used by Michael Jackson. It will be reopened in November 2023. A luxury resort that uses locally produced products for local consumption.
4. Hakone (1.5 hours from Tokyo)
Best for: Hot springs, views of Mount Fuji, and art museums.
Hakone is one of Japan’s most famous hot spring resorts, located in the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Besides the onsen (hot springs), visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Mount Fuji, explore the Hakone Open-Air Museum, and take a relaxing boat cruise on Lake Ashi. Hakone is also home to the Hakone Shrine and numerous hiking trails.
- Top Highlights:
- Lake Ashi: Take a pirate ship cruise for incredible views of Mount Fuji.
- Hakone Open-Air Museum: A striking art museum with outdoor sculptures.
- Onsen: Relax in a hot spring bath while enjoying views of the surrounding mountains.
How to Get There: Take the JR Tōkaidō Shinkansen to Odawara Station, then transfer to the Hakone Tozan Railway.
5. Enoshima (1 hour from Tokyo)
Best for: Beaches, shopping, and scenic views.
Enoshima is a small island off the coast of Kanagawa, known for its beaches, seafood, and panoramic views of Mount Fuji. It’s a great spot to escape the city and enjoy a day of sightseeing, shopping, and relaxing by the water.
- Top Highlights:
- Enoshima Island: Explore the island’s shrines, caves, and panoramic observation deck.
- Enoshima Aquarium: One of the top aquariums in the Kanto region.
- Seafood: Enjoy fresh seafood dishes in local restaurants.
How to Get There: Take the JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line to Fujisawa Station, then transfer to the Enoden Line.
6. Yokohama (30 minutes from Tokyo)
Best for: Modern attractions, shopping, and waterfront views.
Yokohama is Japan’s second-largest city and is known for its modern skyline, waterfront attractions, and historical districts. It offers a great mix of shopping, culture, and leisure activities. The city is also home to the Cup Noodles Museum and the beautiful Minato Mirai district.
- Top Highlights:
- Yokohama Landmark Tower: The tallest building in Yokohama, offering a stunning view of the city.
- Minato Mirai: A waterfront district with shopping, dining, and entertainment.
- Sankei-en Garden: A beautiful Japanese garden with historic architecture.
How to Get There: Take the JR Tōkaidō Line or JR Keihin-Tohoku Line from Tokyo Station to Yokohama Station.
7. Mount Takao (1 hour from Tokyo)
Best for: Hiking, nature, and panoramic views.
Mount Takao, located just an hour from central Tokyo, is a popular destination for nature lovers and hikers. The mountain offers multiple hiking trails, a beautiful temple (Takao-san Yakuo-in Temple), and stunning views of Tokyo and Mount Fuji on clear days. The area is also known for its autumn leaves and springtime cherry blossoms.
- Top Highlights:
- Takao-san Yakuo-in Temple: A Buddhist temple at the summit of Mount Takao.
- Hiking Trails: Multiple trails ranging from easy to challenging.
- Cable Car: For those who prefer a relaxing ascent, a cable car offers a scenic ride.
- Snack
How to Get There: Take the Keio Line from Shinjuku Station to Takaosanguchi Station.
8. Kawagoe (1 hour from Tokyo)
Best for: Historical Edo-period townscape.
Known as “Little Edo,” Kawagoe is famous for preserving its traditional Edo-period architecture. The city offers a charming glimpse into Japan’s past, with its historic warehouses, bell tower, and quaint shopping streets. It’s a great place for history buffs and those who want to experience an older side of Japan.
- Top Highlights:
- Kawagoe Kurazukuri Street: A street lined with historic merchant houses and shops.
- Toki-no-Kane (Bell Tower): A symbol of the city, dating back to the Edo period.
- Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine: A tranquil shrine famous for its colorful, heart-shaped ema (wooden prayer plaques).
How to Get There: Take the Tobu Tojo Line from Ikebukuro Station to Kawagoe Station.
9. The Fuji Five Lakes (2 hours from Tokyo)
Best for: Outdoor activities, scenic views, and Mount Fuji.
Located at the base of Mount Fuji, the Fuji Five Lakes region offers breathtaking views of Japan’s most iconic mountain. The area is perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, boating, and hot spring baths, with lakes like Kawaguchi and Yamanakako offering some of the best vistas.
- Top Highlights:
- Lake Kawaguchi: Offers fantastic views of Mount Fuji, especially in the early morning.
- Fujisan World Heritage Center: Learn more about the cultural significance of Mount Fuji.
- Onsen Resorts: Relax in hot spring resorts around the lakes with views of Fuji.
- FujiKyu Highland：Amusement park with exciting rides.
How to Get There: Take the JR Chūō Line to Otsuki Station, then transfer to the Fujikyu Railway.
10. Izu Peninsula (2 hours from Tokyo)
Best for: Hot springs, coastal scenery, and seafood.
The Izu Peninsula is a beautiful destination known for its rugged coastline, hot springs, and fresh seafood. It’s a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of Tokyo and enjoy a more relaxed pace of life, whether you’re soaking in onsen, hiking along scenic coastlines, or enjoying fresh sushi.
- Top Highlights:
- Atami Onsen: A popular hot spring resort town with seaside views.
- Jogasaki Coast: Famous for its dramatic coastline and beautiful walking trails.
- Shimoda: A coastal town known for its historical significance and beautiful beaches.
How to Get There: Take the JR Tōkaidō Shinkansen to Atami Station, then transfer to local trains to explore the peninsula.
Conclusion
From tranquil mountain retreats to historical cities and coastal escapes, there are plenty of fantastic places near Tokyo that are worth exploring. Whether you have a full day or a weekend to spare, these spots provide a perfect mix of nature, history, culture, and relaxation. So, next time you’re in Tokyo, take the opportunity to step out and experience!
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