Escape the City: 7 Easy Day Trips from Tokyo
If you’re dreaming of your next trip to Japan, there is no doubt that Tokyo will be high on your list of places to visit. Perhaps you are looking to explore hidden neighbourhoods, or discover unique cultural experiences. What most people miss when planning a first time itinerary to Japan, is the wealth of day trips on offer on the outskirts of Japan’s capital. Mt Takao and Okutama sit on Tokyo’s western edge and offer a completely different side to Tokyo, surrounded by nature and mountains, and north of Tokyo, Nikko and Kawagoe are great places to experience more of Japan's traditional culture and hot springs. Come with me as we explore 7 convenient ways to add a new dimension to your next trip to Tokyo.
Nikko
Tochigi Prefecture | Closest Station: Tobu Nikko Station
Known for its towering mountain peaks, vast plains and UNESCO-listed shrines, Tochigi sits proudly around 100km north of Tokyo. Explore the Nikko National Park via Kegon Falls and Chuzenji Lake – as featured in my latest guidebook, and known as the ‘Sea of Happiness’, as well as Nikko Toshogu, one of Japan’s most treasured shrines. Toshogu Shrine is renowned for enshrining Ieyasu Tokugawa, the shogun of Japan’s Edo period and one of the nation’s greatest samurai warriors. There are 55 buildings to explore within the shrine, decorated with colourful creatures, wooden carvings and gold leaf. Highlights include the magnificent Yomeimon Gate, Honjido Hall and Ieyasu’s mausoleum itself. Nikko Toshogu is one of the most accessible sites to visit, via a short tour bus from Nikko Station.
Kawaguchiko
Yamanashi Prefecture | Closest Station: Kawaguchiko Station
The second largest of the Fuji Five Lakes, and arguably the most popular, Lake Kawaguchi offers an ever-changing scenic landscape. Wake-up for sunrise over the lake to see the low mist and a shimmering reflection of Mt Fuji. Shortly after, the local fishermen head out onto the lake, as well as a range of water sports being available. Autumn sees the area fill with rich red momiji leaves, especially at the nearby Maple Corridor. For the best times to see Mt Fuji in the distance, aim for the colder months between November and March for a snowcapped top and clear skies.
Kamakura
Kanagawa Prefecture | Closest Station: Kamakura Station
Less than an hour south of Tokyo, Kamakura is a small coastal town packed with shrines, temples, a giant Buddha statue, beaches, restaurants and more. The summer months are particularly popular for day trippers from Tokyo and the beginning of the hydrangea season, but also year-round Kamakura is definitely worth the short trip from Tokyo to get a taste of ancient Japan without the added journey.
Pro tip : Be sure to visit Enoshima, a small island just next to Kamakura, for sunset where you will be blessed with crisp views of Mt Fuji on a clear day.
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Okutama
Tokyo Prefecture | Closest Station: Okutama Station
The words Tokyo and wilderness might not often be seen in the same sentence, but then there is Okutama. Located less than two hours away on the western outskirts of the wider Tokyo area, Okutama is a serene oasis featuring the green shimmering Ogouchi Reservoir, the pilgrimage trails of Mt Mitake and outdoor adventure sports on the Tama River. Surrounded by vast mountains and dense forests Okutama makes for a great day trip or overnight for those wanting a bit of a break from busy inner city Tokyo life.
Mt Takao
Tokyo Prefecture | Closest Station: Takaosanguchi Station
Takaosan is one of the most accessible mountains on the outskirts of Tokyo, and for good reason. With a rough altitude of 599 metres, Takaosan is a perfect hike for beginners or anyone wanting a not-so-strenuous day hike. Families might want to try the cable car that takes you halfway up the mountain, but more experienced hikes or anyone wanting a bit more of a workout should definitely start from the very bottom of the mountain. And don’t forget to stop for soba noodles or a local onsen on your way back into the city.
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Kawagoe
Tokyo Prefecture | Closest Station: Hon Kawagoe Station
Known as ‘Little Edo’, Kawagoe is only a 30-minute train ride from Tokyo’s Ikebukuro Station, and is home to a wide array of temples, shrines, shops and restaurants. The highlight of Kawagoe is the beautifully preserved Koedo old town, which feels like you are stepping into ancient Japan. The Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine is another highlight, the 1,500-year-old grounds offer the chance to catch a lucky omikuji fortune slip in the form of a small red snapper fish.
Hakone
Tokyo Prefecture | Closest Station: Hakone Yumoto Station
Nestled in the mountains just 90 minutes by train from Tokyo, Hakone is a picturesque destination known for its stunning natural landscapes, soothing hot springs, and illusive views of Mt Fuji. Unwind in one of the many onsens (hot springs) that dot the region. Indulge in local delicacies such as black eggs, or “kuro-tamago,” boiled in the natural hot springs of Owakudani. Legend has it that eating one of these eggs can extend your life by several years. Additionally, the region is known for its soba noodles and tofu dishes.
Experience
Image © Wabunka
Craft Your Very Own Kamakura-bori Lacquerware Bowl
At Tokizo Kobo in Kamakura, master craftsman Hideo Oka shares the artistry of Kamakura-bori lacquerware in his workshop. Recognised by the government for his exceptional skills, Oka guides you through the history and techniques of this traditional craft before helping you lacquer your own wooden bowl – a cornerstone of Japanese tableware.
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