11 Best Day Trips From Tokyo: Don't Leave Tokyo Without Reading This First

On the hunt for the best day trips from Tokyo? Know that you’re off to a great start by choosing Tokyo as your departure point.

Tokyo, other than its it-city status when it comes to visiting Japan, is also a major transportation hub in the country.

From our list of day trips, you’ll get to experience not only the historical side of the country in “Little Edo” or Narita but also its modern attractions like the Cup Noodle Museum. Need a good workout? We have hiking spots near Tokyo, too. All are within only a few hours of travelling by the Shinkansen.

You can easily build your Japan itinerary with these destinations for up to 2 weeks. 

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The Most Popular Day Trips From Tokyo

These day trips from Tokyo are famous for a reason. It’s what everybody is taking, no matter if it’s their first time. Let’s explore these classic Tokyo day trip spots.

Hakone

The Hakone Shrine, with the famous red torii gate, is over 1200 years old. Photo by Alisa on Adobe Stock.

About 1,5 hours from Tokyo on the Odakyu Romancecar or Shinkansen

Hakone is the number one spot on the list because it combines the stunning view of Mt. Fuji, art museums, and unique pirate-ship cruises in one stretch.

The best way to explore Hakone is by the Hakone Round Course, with the Hakone Free Pass for cheaper fares.

You can start in Hakone-Yumoto and take the Tozan Railway line to Goza, where the Open Air Museum is.

After that, the Tozan Cablecar and Tozan Ropeway will take you to Togendai. On a clear day, you can see Mt. Fuji in the background as you ride along. Along the way, make sure to hop off at the volcanic valley of Owakudani to observe the volcanic crater and try the famous black eggs boiled in the natural hot springs

From Togandai, take the pirate ship cruise across Lake Ashinoko to Moto-Hakone, where Hakone Shrine is. You just can’t miss out on seeing the floating red torii gate here.

>>> Got everything you need for a short trip? Follow this guide to make sure you have all you need for a fun and fulfilled weekend getaway.

Kamakura

Visit Kamakura in Spring to see the shrines engulfed in cherry blossoms. Photo by SANCHAI on Adobe Stock.

About 1 hour from Tokyo via the JR Yokosuka Line

The coastal city of Kamakura is famous for its political history, the beaches (which are still more energetic than those in Hokkaido), and beautiful temples. It’s like a little zen oasis away from bustling Tokyo.

If you have more than 2-3 free days away from Tokyo, pair this spot with Hakone, as it is also accessible by the Hakone Pass with Odakyu Railway.

That said, it’s possible to explore Kamakura on foot in a 1-day trip. Most visitors start around Kamakura Station. Then take the Enoden Railway to Hase Station, from where your exploration begins.

Your first attraction is the Hasedera Temple complex. It is famous for its statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. The main hall gives you the best views of Kamakura. 

As you go on, the 11,4 meter tall statue of the Great Buddha of Kamakura (Kamakura Daibutsu) is just 10 minutes away. Following that are Zeniarai Benten Shrine and Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine.

Eventually, you can circle back to Kamakura Station. From there, if you want to get a splash of water, visit the popular Yuigahama Beach, which is also accessible on foot or by train.

Nikko

Nikko’s Shinkyo Bridge, as seen today, was built in 1636. Photo by Patryk Koshmider on Adobe Stock.

About 2 hours from Asakusa, Tokyo by Tobu Railway (direct) or take JR Tohoku Shinkansen (transfer at Utsunomiya for Nikko)

Nikko is stunning. There really is no other way to put it. As soon as you get off the train, get ready to take in sight of UNESCO-listed shrines, sacred forests, and waterfalls.

Take the bus from Tobu Nikko station to the red, sunshoned Shinkyo Bridge (Sacred Bridge), one of the top three most iconic bridges in Japan. 

From the bridge, you can hike uphill towards Toshogu Shrine. Along the paths, don’t forget to admire the Shoyoen Garden. The shrine is actually a complex which houses two other famous structures - the Gojunoto pagoda and the Sleeping Cat shrine.

The whole journey can take up to an hour or longer. You can take the bus to Kegon Falls. It drops beautifully beside Lake Chuzenji. 

Located in a different area of Nikko is the Kanmangafuchi Abyss. Take the bus from Tobu Nikko Station or walk for 40 minutes from Shinkyo Bridge. The abyss is a scenic trail dotted with the iconic Jizo statues wearing red hats and capes. They are believed to protect women and children.

We recommend visiting Nikko in the autumn. The weather is nice, and the red-gold foliage paints a one-of-a-kind scenery. 

Tokyo's Best Nature Day Trips

Mt. Takao, Kawaguchiko, and Enoshima are practical day trips from Tokyo. Due to the country’s compact geography, you’ll get to experience whimsical escapes in nature within hours. 

Mt. Takao

The view of Mount Fuji from Mount Takao. Photo by Frank on Adobe Stock.

About 50-60 minutes from Shinjuku Station to Takaosanguchi via the Keio line

Mount Takao (Takaosan) is in Tokyo. It’s often considered one of the easiest day trips from Tokyo for this reason. It’s perfect for when you want to get active with a hike but don’t have too much time. 

Another appeal of Mount Takao for a day trip is its wide selection of trails.

Trail 1 is an easy hike and the most popular route, with lots of shops, cafes, and even a monkey park. Start at Takaosan Station and take a cable car up. At the last segment of Trail 1, you will find Yakuoin Temple before reaching the summit. 

Another easy option is Trails 4 and 5, where you will catch sight of the Egawa cedars and the Miyama Bridge.

Trails 2 and 3 are more challenging than Trail 1, but are sure to get you away from the crowd. Amenities are limited, so it’s better suited to hikers with proper gear. Both trails will let you explore the steep, forested side of Mt. Takao.

Trail 6 is more secluded and the most challenging out of all, as you will hike through both wet and dry terrains, but there will be lots of beautiful sacred sights along the path.

Once you’re done, drop by the foot of the mountain to bathe in the Keio Takaosan Onsen Gokurakuyu.

CabinZero’s note: make sure you bring your own towels for the onsen, and a lot of onsens require a quick shower before soaking in the hot spring.

Kawaguchiko

Kawaguchiko sits at the north side of Mount Fuji. Photo by radudumitrescu on Adobe Stock.

About 2 hours from Shinjuku Station to Kawaguchiki Station by bus

Kawaguchiko, or Lake Kawaguchiko, is a part of the Fuji Five Lakes. Plenty of visitors use Lake Kawaguchiko as a starting point to explore Mount Fuji, but you can totally spend the day just in the lake itself. After all, Kawaguchiko is also a great resort town for relaxing and getting lost in the scenery.

Once you arrive at Kawaguchiko Station, there will be bus lines running through Kawaguchiko as well as the other lakes.

The east side of Kawaguchiko is where most attractions are located. Head to Chureito Pagoda first, preferably before 9 in the morning, for the best views.

Then return to the lake area and explore the Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway. It will take you to an observation deck where you can see the lake and Mount Fuji. You can either hike back or take the ropeway down. 

Oishi Park on the north side of the lake is perfect to close the day. You can walk the iconic flower streets and enjoy local arts and crafts.

Enoshima

A scenic seaside escape to put on your list. Photo by Umibozze on Adobe Stock.

About 1-1,5 hours from Tokyo by train via the Odakyu line

Because it is tucked inside Kanagawa prefecture, many travellers love to pair Kamakura and Enoshima into a weekend or 3-day escapade (on the same train line). But Enoshima is also an excellent day trip from Tokyo.

Enoshima is a small, hilly island in Sagami Bay, but it’s not quaint. There are plenty of activities for a simple coastal day out.

Begin at Enoshima Station. From there, to reach the island itself, you can walk across the pedestrian-only Enoshima Benten Bridge and take in the surrounding view.

Following the bridge is the Benzaiten Nakamise Street, one of Enoshima’s most bustling streets. You’ll find ryokans, eateries where you can try shirashu (whitebait), and souvenir shops.

As you walk on, you will ascend Enoshima. The three shrines (lower-middle-upper) lie along the route.

There will be a lovely botanical park that lies above them called Samuel Cocking Garden, home to the Sea Candle, Enoshima’s iconic observatory deck. The park is free until 5:00 PM, and entrance to the Sea Candle is about 800 yen/adult.

Before heading for the beach, visit the spiritual Iwaya Caves. They are a set of two tidal-erosion caves that take about 15 minutes to visit. They are dark but adorned magically with lights and stone statues that express Enoshima’s history and culture.

And last but not least, the beach. It has a good surf community, and there will be designated swimming spots. Be sure to pack right to enjoy the water.

Urban Escapes Near Tokyo

Looking for day trips from Tokyo with the same vibes as the capital? Not just epic natural landscapes, these destinations feature a great mix of entertainment and urban scenery.

Yokohama

The historic red-brick warehouse now serves as a shopping and exhibition complex. Photo by torsakarin on Adobe Stock.

About 1 hour from Tokyo on the JR Tokaido Line, JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line, or Tokyu Toyoko Line

Like any urban area, there will be an area that is typically considered the face of the town. In Yokohama, for most visitors, it’s Minato Mirai 21, a seaside district featuring some of the city’s most famous and futuristic-looking buildings.

From Sakuragicho Station, head to Red Brick Warehouses. You may not feel the need to shop, but you just can’t miss this one-of-a-kind shopping mall hiding beneath the facade of a historical building dating back to the Meiji times. After all, it’s one of Yokohama’s most checked-in spots, along with the Cup Noodles Museum.

At the Cup Noodles Museum, you can see the history of cup noodles and design your own cups. Entrance admission is about 500 yen/person. There is a similar one in Osaka, but the one in Yokohama is larger (and more crowded).

Save Chinatown (Chukagai) for the evening because it’s when it is the liveliest. Enjoy dinner there, and pay a visit to the Kanteibyo Temple inside Chinatown.

End the night with a walk along Osanbashi Pier to see Minato Mirai colourfully lit up.

Odaiba

Odaiba skyline with its replica of the Statue of Liberty. Photo by kuremo on Adobe Stock.

About 30-60 minutes from Tokyo, depending on travel mode (metro, water bus, or bus)

Odaiba is another spot on our list of day trips from Tokyo that is located within the city. For the same reason we have Mount Takao on this list, it offers a unique experience from the capital.

With Odaiba, it’s because the destination is on a stretch of man-made islands. The islands were built in 1853 as fortresses. Nearly two centuries later, it is now one of the country’s top entertainment hubs. 

Exploring Odaiba is easy. You can start with a visit to DiverCity Plaza, where the city’s centrepiece - the 20-metre tall Unicorn Gundam statue - sits. Even if you’re not a fan of the Gundam series, you still don’t want to miss it. It’s Odabai's most significant landmark.

Another highlight is teamLab Planets in nearby Toyosu, which is a highly interactive digital art museum that can transport you into a different space. Adult tickets are about 3,600 yen. The Small Worlds miniature museum is also a lovely addition. 

In the evening, stroll the waterfront promenades and have dinner at Gonpachi, the restaurant that inspires the movie Kill Bill. 

An Odaiba itinerary is pretty flexible since the district has plenty of fun things to explore on almost every street. This makes it a great day trip destination for families.

The Cultural Day Trips From Tokyo You Can't Skip

If feeling the older beat of Japan is more your cup of tea, here are day trips from Tokyo that deliver just that.

Kawagoe

Kawagoe’s Bell Tower was built in 1894. Photo by 健太 上田 on Adobe Stock.

About 45 minutes from Tokyo, from the Ikebukuro Station or Seibu Shinjuku Station (travellers can buy passes at a discounted price)

Kawagoe is actually one of the more affordable day trips from Tokyo, so it’s a great choice for those exploring Japan on a budget.

Did you know that the city is also called “Little Edo”? One step off the station and you’ll be swept back in time, to historical streets significant during the Edo Period (1603–1868).

From Hon-Kawagoe Station, stroll the merchant district to see the preserved Kurazukuri warehouses. These black clay-walled storehouses are symbols of the city. You can find shops and restaurants.

However, be mindful when taking pictures, as it’s not a designated tourist area, so you’ll share the walking paths with locals heading to work. 

The Toki no Kane (Bell Tower) is a few minutes away from Kurazukuri Street. Though due to a major fire, what stands today is a renovated version dating back to the 19th century. 

After visiting the Bell Tower, drop by Candy Alley (or Confectioner’s Alley) to find old-fashioned sweet shops selling treats inspired by Japan’s Showa era.

The best time to visit Kawagoe is the third week of October, when the Kawagoe Festival takes place. If you can’t make it to the city during the festival, you can still visit the Hikawa Shrine, where the festival originated, and learn about it in the Kawagoe Festival Museum. 

Narita

The Naritasan Shinshoji’s grounds are bigger than the Tokyo Dome. Photo by Richie Chan on Adobe Stock.

About 1,5 hours from Tokyo via the JR Sobu Line from Tokyo Station

If your Japan itinerary ends at Narita Airport, you must absolutely add Narita City as one of your day trips from Tokyo. Not solely because it’s where the airport is, but also because it’s a charming spot full of cultural delights.

The main route, as soon as you reach Narita, is to stroll Omotesando Street. In the past, it was a pilgrimage road leading to Naritasan Shinshoji Temple.

The whole stretch is best explored slowly with stops for unagi (grilled eel) restaurants and tea houses. The temple is massive with multiple halls, so don’t forget to stuff yourself full before exploring its grounds. Besides the temple complex, Narita Park and Naritasan Museum of Calligraphy are also worth taking a look at.

Narita city is for those who enjoy a lovely, slow-paced, culturally rich experience rather than rushing from one attraction to another. 

Chichibu

Hitsujiyama Park is famous for its pink moss phlox field. Photo by picture cells on Adobe Stock.

About 90 minutes from Tokyo via the Red Arrow train (advanced booking) or JR Train to Kumagaya and then to Chichibu

Chichibu, while historically rich, still offers that mystical atmosphere with its valleys, flower parks, and a long-standing mountain worship. 

Once you arrive at Seibu-Chichibu station, take the bus to Mitsumine Shrine. The experience starts from the foot of the mountain as soon as the bus drives uphill through a forest of cedar trees. The shrine is famous for its wolf guardian statues.

After getting back down from Mitsume Shrine, the Chichibu Shrine is another shrine you can visit. 

In Spring, you can see Hitsujiyama Park covered in Shibazakura (pink moss phlox). Chichibu is also charming in Winter, especially during the Chichibu Night Festival (December 2 and 3). You will fall in love with the winter fireworks and lantern-lit historical buildings. 

Expert Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Tokyo Day Trip

Day trips from Tokyo range from mountainous hikes to modern artificial island exploration. Here are some tips and tricks to keep in mind while travelling.

What Is The 5-Minute Rule In Japan?

It’s generally believed that wherever you have to take public transport, you should arrive at the platform 5 minutes before departure time. Especially for day trips from Tokyo, the capital is very busy.

Another thing is that for some spots where the attractions are spread across the region instead of connecting together in one hub, for example, Chichibu, it’s important to be punctual to save time for yourself.

Is $200 A Day Enough In Japan?

$200 is about 31,000 yen. Here’s a typical breakdown of a daily budget.

• Round-trip train tickets: 1,500 - 6,000

• Meals and café stops: 3,000 - 6,000

• Attraction tickets or ropeways: 1,000 - 3,000

• Snacks and shopping: 3,000 - 5,000

So, $200 a day is a comfortable budget, even if you factor in day trips from Tokyo. If you have plans for luxury shopping and fine dining, then you can add a bit more to the budget just in case. 

What Is The Best Town To Visit Outside Tokyo?

There are a lot of day trips from Tokyo to choose from. Some are just 30 minutes away. The best one depends on what kind of experience you want to have.

• The classic ones for first-time travellers are Hakone, Kamakura, and Nikko. You’ll get to see some of Japan’s most recognisable landmarks.

• Kawagoe, Narita, and Chichibu are perfect if you want a step back in time.

• Yokohama and Odaiba share the same modern beat as Tokyo, but each has something unique to offer.

• If you want a day hike out of Tokyo, Mount Takao, Kawaguchiko, and Enoshima are for you.

Day Trips From Tokyo With CabinZero

Day trips from Tokyo show just how diverse the country can be. Japan’s public transport system makes getting around a breeze, and you can buy tickets and passes for a better price too, as a non-local traveller.

For more comfortable day trips in Japan, don’t forget your day pack. Good daypacks can save you a lot of hassle when hopping on and off crowded trains, moving through shopping streets, and hiking narrow paths up mountains.

CabinZero daypacks are built for exactly that kind of day — compact, cabin-compliant and ready whenever you are. Check out the full daypack collection and find one that suits your trip.

For the latest travel guides and new destinations, check out our Blog or follow us on social media. 

Gia Khanh