Where to Go on a Trip from Tokyo? Tips for Unforgettable Nearby Destinations 

Are you planning a visit to Tokyo and looking to spice up your stay with a day trip to the surrounding area? We have selected several destinations for you that are easily accessible by train and offer a perfect mix of Japanese culture, history, and nature. Do you long for a view of the sacred Mount Fuji, a walk through ancient temples, or perhaps a visit to one of the best amusement parks in the world? You can find it all around Tokyo.  

Day trips from Tokyo are among the most popular ways to experience the true essence of Japan. Thanks to the excellent transport network, you can discover places where history comes to life and nature takes your breath away in just an hour or two. 

Kamakura—The Small Kyoto of Eastern Japan 

Looking for a day trip from Tokyo to an attractive destination? You can get there in less than an hour by train from the city center. Here lies Kamakura, the former capital of samurai Japan. It attracts visitors with the monumental statue of the Great Buddha—an 11-meter (36 ft) tall bronze figure that has withstood typhoons, earthquakes, and tsunamis. In addition to this iconic statue, you’ll find dozens of temples and shrines set amidst lush greenery. 

The heart of the city is the Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine with its impressive entrance gate. Don’t forget to take a stroll down Komachi-dori Street, where you can taste traditional Japanese delicacies. For nature lovers, Kamakura also offers several hiking trails and beaches—in summer, you can swim or surf here. 

TIP: Discover more tour options during your Tokyo guided vacation at https://www.nextleveloftravel.com/japan/tokyo-3-day-itinerary/. 

How to get there? 

From Tokyo Station, take the JR Yokosuka line. The trip takes 55 minutes, and most of the main attractions are within walking distance from the station. 

Hakone—Hot Springs with a View of Fuji 

Hakone is the perfect day trip from Tokyo by Shinkansen for those who long for a combination of relaxation in hot springs and breathtaking views of the sacred Mount Fuji. The area is part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and offers much more than just hot springs. An unforgettable boat ride on Lake Ashi provides the most photogenic view of Fuji on a clear day. 

A local specialty is black eggs boiled in the sulfur springs of the Owakudani Valley – according to legend, each one extends your life by seven years. Be sure not to miss a visit to the Hakone Open-Air Museum, where you’ll find more than 100 outdoor sculptures and works by world-renowned artists, including Picasso. 

How to get there? 

From Shinjuku Station in Tokyo, take the Odakyu line towards Hakone-Yumoto (90 minutes), or opt for the faster option by taking the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Odawara and then a local train (a total of 55 minutes). 

Nikko—Temple Complex Embraced by Mountains 

For lovers of architecture and nature, Nikko offers an ideal day trip from Tokyo into nature. This mountain town, just two hours from the metropolis, is home to a UNESCO-listed temple complex. The highlight is the Toshogu Shrine with its gilded gates and intricate wood carvings, which serves as the mausoleum of Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu. 

During your visit, don’t miss the Kegon Falls, one of the tallest in Japan, or Lake Chuzenji, nestled high in the mountains. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the network of hiking trails of varying difficulty levels. 

How to get there? 

Direct trains run from Tokyo’s Asakusa district or Shinjuku Station, and the journey takes approximately 2 hours. 

Tokyo DisneySea—A Unique Amusement Park 

You won’t find this unique amusement park anywhere else in the world. Unlike traditional Disneyland parks, it offers a more sophisticated experience that appeals to adult visitors as well. This makes it an ideal day trip from Tokyo in winter. The park is divided into seven themed zones inspired by sea legends and adventures. Among the most popular attractions are Journey to the Center of the Earth, the underwater fortress from 20,000 leagues under the sea, and the Venetian-themed area with gondolas. For the best experience, arrive early in the morning and get a FastPass to avoid long lines. 

How to get there? 

From Tokyo Station, take the JR Keiyo or Musashino line towards Maihama Station; the journey takes 20 minutes. 

Yokohama—A Modern Port Within Reach 

For a day trip from Tokyo without long travel, Yokohama is an ideal choice. Japan’s second-largest city offers an impressive mix of modern architecture and maritime history. Visit Chinatown, home to over 300 restaurants, stroll along the Minato Mirai 21 waterfront with the iconic Landmark Tower observation deck, or sample various types of ramen at the Cup Noodles Museum. 

How to get there? 

From Tokyo Station, take any JR line or private railway; the journey takes less than 30 minutes. 

Day trips from Tokyo offer a perfect way to explore the diverse faces of Japan—from historical landmarks to natural wonders and modern entertainment. With reliable and fast transportation, you can comfortably visit any of these destinations in just one day; all you need to do is choose based on your preferences.