6 Day Trips from Tokyo: Leave in the Morning, Back by Night, But Feel Worlds Away.
If you find yourself with a free day while visiting Tokyo, take a trip outside the city. You'll quickly discover that the areas surrounding Tokyo have way more to offer than you might expect! From historic towns and the ocean to hot springs, Mount Fuji views, famous temples, and stunning cityscapes at night. Getting there is a breeze, with many spots just a 1 to 2-hour train ride away.
Kamakura + Enoshima is perfect for first-timers. In just one day, you can check off the Great Buddha, historic temples, quaint little streets, an old-town vibe, a ride on the Enoden train, and beautiful ocean views. It’s a thoroughly enjoyable trip with amazing photo ops every step of the way.
Hakone is the ideal getaway when you want to escape the concrete jungle and recharge in nature. It features hot springs, Lake Ashi, Hakone Shrine, and Owakudani. On a clear day, you might even catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji. Highly recommended if you love mountain scenery and a laid-back atmosphere.
Kawagoe is a retro, historic town that’s just a short trip from Tokyo. Its main draws are the traditional houses, old clay warehouses, the iconic bell tower, traditional sweet shops, and streets that still exude the charm of old-school Japan. It’s perfect for a relaxed half-day or full-day excursion.
Yokohama is the go-to choice for city lovers who enjoy cafes, shopping, and glittering night views. Take a stroll through Minato Mirai, head over to Chinatown, drop by the Red Brick Warehouse, and wrap up your day taking in the gorgeous waterfront views after dark. It’s an easy day trip with a hassle-free return to Tokyo.
Nikko is calling all history and nature enthusiasts. The crown jewel here is the lavishly decorated Nikko Toshogu Shrine, set against a backdrop of lush forests, mountains, bridges, and waterfalls. It’s a bit further out than the other destinations, but if you start your day early, it makes for a fantastic day trip.
Kawaguchiko / Fuji should be at the top of your list if your goal is to "see Mount Fuji in all its glory." The area around the lake offers countless vantage points for photographing the iconic mountain. However, it’s highly recommended to check the weather and visibility before you go, as clouds can sometimes completely obscure the view.
To sum it up: if you love the ocean, choose Kamakura + Enoshima; craving hot springs? Pick Hakone; love historic towns? Go for Kawagoe; city vibes and nightlife? Yokohama is your spot; into temples and nature? Head to Nikko; and if you want to hunt down the best views of Mount Fuji, Kawaguchiko is the place to be!