Tokyo is a vibrant city with plenty to see and do, but sometimes it’s nice to escape the hustle and bustle and explore the surrounding areas. If you’re looking for a change of pace, there are plenty of interesting day trips you can take from Tokyo. Here are some of the best options:
- Kamakura:
The Great Buddha of Kamakura is located in Kōtoku-in is a Buddhist temple of the Jōdo-shū sect, in the city of Kamakura in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan. Image by PublicDomainPictures from Pixabay Kamakura is a small city located just an hour south of Tokyo by train. It was once the political center of Japan and is now home to many temples and shrines, including the famous Great Buddha statue.
- Hakone:
Mount Fuji, Hakone, Japan Image by c7corvette1327 from Pixabay Hakone is a popular destination for hot springs and stunning views of Mount Fuji. Take a scenic ride on the Hakone Tozan Railway and then soak in one of the many hot spring baths.
- Nikko:
Kegon Waterfall, Nikko, Japan Image by hereisthailand from Pixabay Nikko is a beautiful mountainous region that is home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Nikko Toshogu Shrine and the Futarasan Shrine. The area is known for its stunning natural beauty, including waterfalls and forests.
- Enoshima:
Aerial View of Enoshima Photo by Lin Leyu on Unsplash Enoshima is a small island located just an hour south of Tokyo by train. It’s known for its beautiful beaches, scenic views, and several shrines and temples.
- Yokohama:
Chinatown in Yokohama, Japan Image by meguraw645 from Pixabay Yokohama is a port city located just 30 minutes south of Tokyo by train. It’s known for its modern architecture, scenic bay area, and a large Chinatown.
- Mount Takao:
Temple in Mount Takao Image by Karalee Weaver from Pixabay Mount Takao is a popular hiking destination located just an hour from Tokyo. It offers stunning views of the city, as well as several temples and shrines along the way.
- Kawagoe:
Photo by Kentaro Toma on Unsplash Kawagoe is a small city located just an hour north of Tokyo by train. It’s known for its well-preserved Edo-era architecture, including a collection of traditional merchant houses and warehouses.
- Lake Ashi:
Hakone Shrine in Lake Ashi Image by Travis Aguilar from Pixabay Lake Ashi is a scenic lake located in Hakone that offers breathtaking views of Mount Fuji. Take a scenic boat ride on the lake and stop at several temples and shrines along the way.
- Odaiba:
Odaiba Image by Steffen Zimmermann from Pixabay Odaiba is a man-made island located in Tokyo Bay that offers a unique blend of modern and traditional experiences. It’s known for its shopping centers, museums, and a futuristic theme park.
- Izu Peninsula:
Beach Torii in Izu Peninsula Image by Jordy Meow from Pixabay Izu Peninsula is a peninsula located just two hours southwest of Tokyo by train. It’s known for its hot springs, scenic views, and several national parks and nature reserves.
Tokyo is surrounded by many interesting destinations that offer a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and culture. Whether you’re looking for scenic views, hot springs, temples, or shopping, there’s something for everyone within a short train ride of the city.
