Summary
Tokyo stands as one of the most dynamic and exciting cities globally, home to over 9 million residents, making it one of the most densely populated urban areas.
This vibrant metropolis offers a plethora of sights and activities for visitors. While modern in its approach and business-oriented, Tokyo also boasts historical sites that are essential to explore.
Senso-ji, a stunning temple dedicated to the Goddess of Mercy, along with the Tokyo Imperial Palace and Meiji Shrine, are captivating locations worthy of a visit.
Japan’s advanced connectivity allows for easy exploration beyond the capital, revealing numerous cultural and historical treasures in the surrounding areas. Here, we present the best day trips from Tokyo.
1. Mt. Fuji
Mt. Fuji represents Japan’s most recognizable natural landscape and is the nation’s tallest mountain, specifically a volcano.
Surrounded by five enchanting lakes, the majesty of Mt. Fuji is a sight to behold.
During a day trip from Tokyo, visitors can enjoy stunning views of rural Japan.
A visit to Oshino Ninja Village can add an enjoyable element to your day trip, allowing guests to gain insight into Japanese culture and even capture photographs alongside a ninja.
The Japanese garden at the Ninja Village is another notable attraction.
2. Nikko
The mountain city of Nikko ranks among Japan’s most scenic destinations.
A day spent in Nikko is filled with visits to temples, imperial villas, and numerous shrines.
As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this remarkable city deserves preservation efforts.
The mountain scenery surrounding Nikko is genuinely breathtaking.
During your visit, be sure to stop at the Toshogu Shrine, where you can admire the intricate artistry evident in its construction.
More than 2.5 million sheets of gold leaf embellish its interior.
Do not overlook the Tamozawa Imperial Villa, constructed in 1899, which features elements from the Meiji, Taisho, and Edo architectural styles.
Ensure that your camera is charged before departing Tokyo.
3. Disneyland and DisneySea
For those who may believe Disneyland exists solely in Los Angeles and Paris, Japan offers its very own Disneyland theme park and DisneySea adjacent to it.
A day spent at Disneyland provides the full Disney experience, allowing guests to interact with beloved characters, enjoy numerous rides, and marvel at a full-sized Cinderella Castle.
DisneySea features a large lake at its center, offering water rides and sea-themed attractions that promise enduring laughter and memorable moments for families.
4. Hakone
Hakone is among Japan’s most cherished hot springs resorts.
Situated within Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, Hakone serves as a gateway to Mt. Fuji.
Before indulging in the hot springs, consider visiting Hakone Shrine and the accompanying museum located near Lake Ashi.
A stroll along the picturesque shores of Lake Ashi offers magnificent views of distant mountains.
This region of Japan is particularly captivating in autumn when the foliage transforms.
Before entering the hot springs, be sure to visit the Hakone Open Air Museum, which showcases numerous intriguing and thought-provoking sculptures.
5. Tokyo Skytree & Tokyo Bay
Although Tokyo Skytree is located in the city center, combining a visit to the Skytree with a cruise on Tokyo Bay provides a remarkable day trip experience that allows you to explore both horizontally and vertically.
On clear days, the view from the top of Tokyo Skytree, the tallest broadcasting tower in the city, extends to Mt. Fuji, a sight that should not be missed.
The Solamachi Mall adjacent to the Skytree serves as an ideal venue for acquiring souvenirs and mementos.
After exploring the city’s heights, embark on a cruise to enjoy Tokyo’s spectacular skyline from the water, relishing the luxury of a cruise boat.
6. Yokohama
Yokohama holds a significant place in maritime history as one of Japan’s earliest ports to engage in international trade, dating back to 1859. The city is notable for its extensive Chinatown area, showcasing a rich tapestry of Asian cultures.
With countless Chinese restaurants to explore, Yokohama presents an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in both Chinese and Japanese cultures.
The Yokohama Marine Tower stands as one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks, featuring an observation deck that offers views of the city and Tokyo Bay, which flows into the East China Sea.
7. Enoshima
Enoshima is a petite island linked to the mainland Shonan district by a 600-meter-long bridge.
There is much to uncover on this compact island, with the grand Enoshima Shrine complex being the paramount attraction.
This sacred site is devoted to Benzaiten, the goddess of fortune, music, and poetry.
While the island features its aquarium, the various caves and temples offer a rewarding opportunity to connect with Japan’s ancient history and culture.
The Iwaya Caves are particularly popular, featuring tidal pools that add to the unique charm of the site.
8. Kamakura
Situated just half an hour from Tokyo’s city center, Kamakura ranks among the most convenient day trip destinations.
The highlight of Kamakura is undoubtedly the remarkable Great Buddha of Kotokuin statue.
This sacred site evokes reverence, and one need not subscribe to any particular faith to appreciate the grandeur of the Great Buddha.
Japan is ideal for exploring temples, and during your day trip to Kamakura, you can also discover three additional stunning temples: the Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Engakuji Temple, and Hasedera Temple.
The Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine is the most significant Shinto shrine in all of Kamakura.
9. Kawagoe
The city of Kawagoe is situated northwest of Tokyo within Saitama Prefecture.
The primary attraction in Kawagoe is its Edo-period architecture and the Kawagoe Castle Honmaru Residence.
Renowned for its historic clay warehouses and the homes of industrious merchants known as Kurazukuri, Kawagoe offers valuable insights into Japan’s Edo era.
The confectionery shops of Kawagoe are noteworthy, particularly on Candy Alley, which is a delightful destination for those with a sweet tooth.
For Buddhism enthusiasts, the Kita-in temple is a must-see; it houses the ruins of an Edo Castle and boasts over 500 stone statues of Lord Buddha and his followers.
10. Chichibu
If you have an affinity for the color pink, Chichibu is likely to captivate you.
Even if pink is not your preferred color, the charming pink landscapes of Chichibu are sure to leave an impression.
As the starting and concluding point of the Chichibu Kannon Pilgrimage route, Chichibu is enveloped by rugged mountains that conceal 34 sacred temples.
Within Chichibu, the Kinshoji Temple stands out as the fourth stop on the pilgrimage route, where visitors can admire hundreds of unique Buddha statues.
Hitsujiyama Park is a remarkable park renowned throughout Asia, best recognized for its spring flower displays and a vibrant collection of blossoms year-round.
11. Kusatsu Onsen
Nestled in Gunma Prefecture, Kusatsu Onsen is one of the region’s most popular hot spring resorts and a favored destination for locals.
A day trip from Tokyo to Kusatsu Onsen is delightful, although you may find yourself wishing for additional time to relax and rejuvenate.
Should your schedule permit an overnight stay, it would be well worth the experience.
Be sure to witness the Yumomi performance, where performers use large wooden paddles to stir the hot spring water, singing traditional folk songs during the process.
12. Atami City
Atami City is a delightful seaside destination located on the Izu Peninsula.
Sitting in the volcanic foothills of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, Atami City provides magnificent views of Mt. Fuji, numerous hot springs, and a rich cultural landscape to explore.
The MOA Museum of Art houses an extensive collection of East Asian artwork spanning several centuries, complemented by stunning coastal views.
Atami Castle is a prominent highlight during a visit to the city.
During the spring, Atami Castle provides one of the finest vantage points for admiring the blooming cherry blossoms across the prefecture, contrasted beautifully by the coastline beneath.
13. Chiba Castle
It is important to note that Chiba Castle is technically a folk museum housed in a modern building that features a facade resembling a traditional Japanese castle.
The museum provides educational exhibits that offer insights into the history and development of Chiba city.
Chiba Castle and the city as a whole are particularly enchanting during the Hanami festival, or cherry blossom festival.
Art enthusiasts should consider adding the Hoki Museum, which specializes in realism, to their itinerary during the day trip from Tokyo.
14. Kawasaki
Kawasaki is renowned for its motorcycle production; however, the city also possesses significant attractions and opportunities for exploration.
For thrill-seekers, Yomiuriland offers a plethora of rollercoasters, intense rides, and bungee jumping for an exhilarating experience.
Culture enthusiasts can learn about Kawasaki Daishi, a Buddhist temple founded in 1128 CE, which serves as the headquarters for the Chizan sect of Shingon Buddhism.
Japan provides numerous opportunities for travelers to deepen their understanding of Buddhism as a way of life.
15. Odawara
Odawara lies adjacent to Hakone, creating an accessible day trip when visiting both cities, albeit in a slightly hurried format.
Odawara Castle features a multi-storey structure built in a traditional Japanese style.
Initially destroyed by the Meiji government, Odawara Castle has since been protected for future generations.
Inside, visitors will discover a remarkable array of artifacts and exhibitions.
Odawara also serves as a major entry point to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.
During February and March, attendees can experience the Odawara Plum Festival, which includes horseback archery and traditional folk dance performances.
