18 Underrated Day Trips From Tokyo You Haven’t Thought Of

If you’re planning a Japan trip, you’ll really be spoilt for choice when it comes to selecting exciting day trips from Tokyo! Contrasting characteristics of modern, bustling cities and peaceful natural scenery can easily be interwoven into a Japan itinerary to ensure you make the most of your precious travel time.

But with so many options for Tokyo day trips, where do you begin? The streets of Tokyo can feel like mini day trips in themselves!

Naturally, there are obvious choices to consider outside of Tokyo such as Mount Fuji, Nikko and Kamakura. But did you know there are also plenty of lesser-known gems and locations many first-time tourists to Japan haven’t thought of?

Like a waving maneki-neko (Japanese lucky cat), I’m here to send good fortune your way by sharing my unique findings and personal experiences on the best side trips from Tokyo in this detailed guide.

There’s no need to feel overwhelmed by all the options or where they are in relation to each other – I’ve sorted the destinations below by time to make things easy for you!

As a Japanophile, I’ve been visiting Tokyo for the past decade so I’ve personally visited all but two of the places listed below. I love nothing more than being an invisible tourist and exploring the popular locations as well as hidden gems other visitors may not be aware of.

If you want to discover the best places to visit outside Tokyo (besides Disneyland) and interesting locations you haven’t heard of to enrich your trip, read on for more!

How to get around in & outside of Tokyo

Because there are so many places to go in Tokyo, over and over in Japan travel forums I see potential visitors ask whether they should purchase the Japan Rail Pass in advance for Tokyo, with the answers usually overwhelmingly in favour.

But were you aware of the number of privately owned railways in the country and that the JR Pass will only cover journeys on their own lines (with some exceptions)?

In this guide, under each destination I’ve listed any relevant transport passes from the private railway companies to help you receive discounted travel on your day trips from Tokyo.

For Tokyo itself, I’d suggest pre-purchasing a reloadable Suica (IC) card or discounted Tokyo Subway Pass to use on the Tokyo Metro (subway), buses and some light rail. The Suica Card can also be used on most transport throughout Japan. Super handy!

18 Amazing & underrated day trips from Tokyo you haven’t thought of

When you first hear the word “Japan”, there’s little doubt one of the first visions to spring to mind is an incredible image of Mt Fuji and her mirrored reflection on the calm lake below, framed by pink hues of delicate cherry blossoms or fiery red autumn foliage. I’m here to show you there’s more day trips outside of Tokyo than Fuji-san!

While there are obvious year-round day trips from Tokyo, the surrounding areas do have a few ace cards up their sleeves for curious travellers wishing to experience magic by exploring off the beaten path in Japan. 

I see many would-be visitors with limited time ask where are the best places to visit in Japan to experience old-world charm, tradition and scenery near Tokyo to contrast their trip. You don’t have to go far! If you’re looking for an Edo-era atmosphere just a hop, skip and jump away from the modernity of today’s capital, read on to learn where to find them.

30 mins best places to visit near Tokyo

KAWAGOE

30 mins from Tokyo on Seibu Railway
A booming trade hub during the Edo Period (1603 – 1868), the very impressive and well preserved merchant district of Kawagoe 川越 has earnt the town the nickname of Little Edo. For those who are very short of time, a day trip from Tokyo to Kawagoe is a great idea for a slice of old-world charm and nostalgia.

YOKOHAMA

30 mins from Tokyo on Tokyu Toyoko Railway 
Often overlooked by first-time tourists to Japan, hugging Tokyo Bay’s southern shores lies the port city of Yokohama 横浜. Holding the title of Japan’s second-largest city, Yokohama has a fascinating history and is home to plenty of attractions to keep you busy.

Towards the end of isolationist Edo Period, Yokohama’s port was the first open to foreign trade, allowing it to grow into a thriving city. Like Hiroshima, Yokohama is a city that demonstrates the importance of resilience and hope.

1 hour day trips near Tokyo

KAMAKURA

1 hour from Tokyo on JR Shonan Shinjuku line
As the political centre of medieval Japan for over 140 years from the 12th century, Kamakura 鎌倉 is rich in history and is often described as the “Kyoto of the East”. Stunning and important cultural treasures such as shrines, temples, monuments and Japan’s second-tallest bronze Buddha statue can be found here in this small seaside town. 

Surrounded by gorgeous mountains, natural scenery and only an hour away, it’s easy to see why Kamakura is one of the most popular day trips from Tokyo.

TIP: Read my full guide to a Kamakura day trip itinerary from Tokyo!

Overtourism in Kamakura

I’ll first start with an important note to keep at front of mind when visiting Kamakura. While there are many guided day tours from Tokyo to Kamakura available, their popularity means the area has become negatively affected by overtourism recently.

Tourists aren’t aware of these do’s and don’ts in Japan have caused locals to report strains on their limited infrastructure and quality of daily life. There is anonymity travelling as part of a large group – I elaborate more on this when answering if Kyoto is a day trip from Tokyo towards the end of this guide, so read on to find out why.

I’d suggest skipping the larger group tours to Kamakura. Instead, I highly recommend being “invisible” here and doing a self-guided tour to avoid contributing to overtourism in Japan. By doing this, you’re able to spend more time exploring beyond the popular tourist attractions and even see them before or after the hordes of large tour groups from Tokyo.

NOTE: Psst, learn more of my overtourism solutions to help you blend in as best as possible in Japan and anywhere around the globe. Why contribute to the problem when you can prevent it? It’s easy to lessen your heavy tourist footprint when you know how!

Things to do in Kamakura

• Admire the iconic 11-metre tall Daibutsu (Great Buddha) of Kamakura, a designated National Treasure (you can even go inside!)
• Explore Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, Kamakura’s most important temple dedicated to samurai
• Visit one of Japan’s largest wooden statues of beloved goddess, Kannon, at Hasedera Temple (note that photos & videos of her are prohibited)
• Indulge in local street food and souvenir shop along Komamachi-dori
• Wander the lush bamboo groves and hidden caves surrounding Hokoku-ji Temple
• Wash your money to wish it to multiply at Zeniarai Benten’s natural spring
• Admire the stunning intertwined dragons painted on Zuisen-ji Temple’s ceiling
• Head over to Enoshima Island, a Tokyo 2020 Olympics site
• Watch the sunset on one of the lovely sandy beaches.

SANRIO PUROLAND

1 hour from Tokyo on Tokyo Metro & Keio railway line
Here’s one of the fun day trips from Tokyo for the little and not-so-little ones! If you’re a fan of all things Hello Kitty, Gudetama and more of your favourite kawaii (cute) Sanrio cartoon characters, Sanrio Puroland is a must-see day trip from Tokyo for you. Unlike Tokyo Disneyland, it’s located one hour outside Tokyo.

Have your photo taken in Lady Kitty’s House, take a train ride through My Melody’s World, enjoy a tour of Kiki & Lala’s World and play mini games in Gudetama Land – he’s the lazy egg who became popular due to his lethargic personality.

Parades, shows, themed cafés, the chance to meet and greet your beloved characters and the ability to shop your favourite Hello Kitty merch, make sure you add Sanrio Puroland to your Tokyo itinerary if you’re a super fan!

1.5 hour day trips from Tokyo

FUJI-Q HIGHLAND

1.5 hours from Tokyo by bus
What’s better than a Japanese theme park? A Japanese theme park with a stunning view of Mt Fuji as a postcard-worthy backdrop! Home to four major rollercoasters to get your adrenaline pumping, often overlooked Fuji-Q Highland is actually one of the best places to see Mt Fuji in the country.

GOTEMBA

1.5 hours from Tokyo by bus
Sitting in the shadows of Mt Fuji, Gotemba 御殿場 can often be overlooked by first time visitors to Japan in favour of main shopping metropolises Tokyo and Osaka. As a rare occurrence in Japan, it’s actually faster to take this day trip from Tokyo by bus rather than train!

Boasting over 200 stores from luxury designer brands to mid range options, Gotemba Premium Outlets are the star attraction here and a literal heaven for anyone who is a self-declared shopaholic. For a full list of stores, click here.

More things to do in Gotemba

• Walk in the footsteps of Price & Princess Chichibu at Chichibunomiya Memorial Park
• Visit the Former Kishi Residence, private home of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s grandfather
• Enjoy tea and a stroll through a bamboo grove at Toraya Kobo Sweet Company

GALA YUZAWA 

1.5 hours from Tokyo on the Joetsu shinkansen
If you’re from a country that doesn’t experience snow during the colder months, you may wish to add Gala Yuzawa to your itinerary! Just 75mins from Tokyo on the Joetsu bullet train, Gala Yuzawa Snow Resort is one of the perfect day trips from Tokyo in winter for skiiers and non-skiers alike.

Located in Niigata Prefecture, this region of Japan is known for its incredibly fluffy powder snow. Ride gondolas, chairlifts, go sledding down the slopes, grab a bite to eat with amazing panoramic views over the mountain range and more. My absolute highlight of the day was the Bell of Love Observation Deck – the panoramic scenery will leave you speechless!

TIP: Read my full guide for how to get to Gala Yuzawa from Tokyo, including a visit to the sake vending machine wall in nearby Echigo Yuzawa!

HAKONE

1.5 hours from Tokyo on Odakyu Railway
Famous for hot springs, Hakone 箱根 is one of the easiest and most convenient day trips from Tokyo by train due to its easy accessibility on the Odakyu rail line. It’s popularity is in part due to it being faster to reach than Fuji Five Lakes, mentioned further down the page. 

If you’re fortunate enough to visit during a time when Mt Fuji decides to peep out from her usual cloudy blanket, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views from many vantage points around Hakone. 

Once you arrive at Hakone, navigating around the area is a very simple loop with clear signage. It’s fun to see all the sights by bus, ropeway, pirate ship cruise on Lake Ashi, and cable car. You are free to explore Fuji Hakone Izu National Park as a self-guided adventure like I did, which is a great option as you’re able to take your time to soak in all the attractions as you please.

HITACHI SEASIDE PARK

1 hour 45 mins from Tokyo on JR Joban line
Boasting an ever-changing colourful landscape, Hitachi Seaside Park ひたち海浜公園 is one of the best day trips from Tokyo for families. Even year round!

Located near Mito, there’s even an amusement park featuring a giant ferris wheel and picnic areas if you’re keen to stay a while and enjoy the fresh seaside air. With pathways winding around the 350 hectares of land, you’re sure to find a spot to avoid any crowds.

Miharashi Hill is perhaps the most picturesque spot, and for good reason. A sea of beautiful blue nemophila flowers almost seamlessly blends into the sky above during spring, peaking in late April – early May. Vibrant crimson kochia bushes change the landscape again in autumn, which make for some amazing photos. The flowers blooming in each season are:

• Spring: Narcissuses, tulips, nemophila, Japanese plum trees
• Summer: Poppies, roses, zinnias, sunflowers
• Autumn: Kochia, cosmos flowers
• Winter: Ice tulips 

More things to do in Mito

Mito 水戸 is one of the perfect day trips from Tokyo in spring. Along with Kanazawa’s Kenroku-en and Okayama’s Koraku-en, Mito boasts the third of Japan’s top 3 gardens, Kairaku-en. 

Kairaku-en is one of the first in the country to experience blossom viewing, although not sakura (cherry blossoms)! Over 3000 ume (plum blossoms) burst to life from mid-February and the wonderful Mito Ume Matsuri festival celebrates this occasion. The gardens also showcase a bamboo grove and cedar woods.

SHIOFUNE KANNON-JI & MT TAKAO

1.5 hours from Tokyo on the JR Chuo + JR Ome lines, or accessible by hire car
This is one of the easy day trips from Tokyo you won’t see mentioned elsewhere! You may prefer a to hire a rental car for the day for flexibility (personally I picked up mine from Kabe Station in the morning and dropped off at Takao Station that evening).

Shiofune Kannon-ji Temple 塩船観音寺 is an absolute must for lovers of azalea flowers in spring. The annual Tsutsuji Matsuri つつじまつり (Azalea Festival) is incredible in ways difficult to imagine without having visited. The entire valley, believed to have reminded a residing monk of a boat, is bursting with vibrant blooms from mid-April to mid-May. It looks like an impressionist painting come to life!

Later that afternoon, drive 35 mins south towards Takaosanguchi, the station for beloved Mt Takao. Not as popular with foreign tourists as Hakone or Kawaguchiko, Mt Takao 高尾山 offers a rare glimpse of Mt Fuji in the distance on clear days. The cable car is just a 4 minute walk from Takaosanguchi Station.

The steep mountain’s summit can be reached by chairlift or cable car (hang onto your bags, they’ll slide across the floor!). Enjoy shinrin yoku amongst the hiking trails, temple hopping, and allow the spiritual aura of this sacred mountain to wash over you.

TIP: If you have a car in the second half of April, you can combine your Shiofune Kannon-ji and Mt Takao day trip with Haijima Park, in between both these locations. Its name is derived from the wisteria called Haijima no Fuji here that’s been blooming for the past 800 years! It’s beside Haijima Hiyoshi Shrine, which dates back to 952 AD.

NAGANO

1.5 hours from Tokyo on Hokuriku shinkansen (bullet train)
The alpine region of Nagano 長野 will be one of the perfect day trips near Tokyo if you love being at one with nature. This day trip from Tokyo by bullet train is where you’ll find each of Japan’s 30 highest peaks (except Mt Fuji) so it’s no surprise the area is known for snowy adventures.

Despite this, Nagano transforms into a gorgeous emerald beauty in the off-season and is the ideal base for treks and activities – and the snow monkeys!

Aside from hosting the 1998 Winter Olympic Games, Nagano is mostly known for Zenko-ji, one of Japan’s most important temples. Dating back to the 7th century it has survived countless earthquakes, natural disasters and is believed to house the first ever Buddhist statue brought to the country. The quaint town of Nagano developed around the temple over time and is now one of the few remaining pilgrim sites in Japan. It’s truly humbling to visit! 

TIP: Keep your eye out for the most Japanese thing you’ll see in Nagano: A temple-shaped vending machine dispensing omamori (Japanese lucky charms) at Zenko-ji.

Contrary to popular belief, the cheeky snow monkeys of Jigokudani Monkey Park are there year-round… even in summer! Visiting during the warmer months definitely has its perks (hint: fluffy snow monkey babies and fewer tourists).

TIP: I’ve written about what it’s really like visiting Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park in summer if you’d like to take a peek, and my 2 day Nagano itinerary covers other things to see and enjoy in the area.

2 hour day trips from Tokyo

EDO WONDERLAND

2 hours from Tokyo Station on Tobu Kinugawa line
Yes, Edo Wonderland is a bit touristy, but to me sometimes that’s what makes these places half the fun! Destinations like this are the reason why I personally LOVE being a tourist.

Embrace being a foreigner and soak up Japanese culture by stepping back in time at Edo Wonderland. Experience the atmosphere of what life was like from the bygone Edo Period. As well as nostalgic games, you’re also able enjoy the historical accuracy of traditional architecture and taste delicacies popular during the Edo era at the specialty restaurants throughout the village.

There are different performances throughout the day from ninja shows to the interesting oiran procession (I’ll let you look up that one). Be sure to check the theatre schedule on arrival to see what interests you. Get yourself and your kids involved in the activities and transform into a ninja, samurai and try to escape the Ninja Trick Maze!

TIP: Read my full guide including discount passes and overlooked attractions for a Nikko day trip from Tokyo!

TOBU WORLD SQUARE

2 hours from Tokyo on Tobu Railway
This is one of the places to visit from Tokyo you won’t find elsewere! Have you always wanted to visit the Seven Wonders of the World? You’ll be able to do it in a few hours at Tobu World Square. Explore the six themed zones that feature 47 UNESCO World Heritage sites from around the globe at 1:25 scale.

I couldn’t believe the level of detail at this place! The tiny figurines are all doing something interesting. Mini vehicles such as trains, cars and boats all move around, while the bonsai plants that accompany each miniature landmark are so gorgeous and well-kept.

Kids (and big kids at heart like myself) will thoroughly enjoy landmark-spotting at Tobu World Square. It’s certainly one of the unusual day trips from Tokyo.

TIP: Read my full guide to visiting and what to expect at Tobu World Square!

SHRINES & TEMPLES OF NIKKO

2 hours from Tokyo on Tobu Railway
The UNESCO World Heritage Shrines & Temples of Nikko 日光 are one of the most popular day trips from Tokyo in autumn on my list. The area is known for its abundance of red Japanese maple trees.

Ruled by the Tokugawa Shogunate from 1603 – 1868, the Edo Period marked the end of isolationist policy and Tokugawa is credited as one of the three unifiers of Japan. He is entombed at the ornate Toshogu Shrine in Nikko (near Edo Wonderland and Tobu World Square, mentioned above).

Toshogu Shrine and Taiyuin are some of the most picturesque shrines in Nikko National Park, their exquisite attention to detail and beautiful gold leaf features proudly on show. As these wooden structures were built before the official separation of Shinto and Buddhist religions in the following Meiji Period, the shrines showcase elements from both religions, which is a rare treat.

MATSUMOTO

2.5 hours from Tokyo on JR Azusa limited express train
If you’ve read this far, I’m guessing you’re curious to see how far a day trip from Tokyo will take you. Incredible Matsumoto 松本 is often overlooked due to the effort it takes to get there, but is a great option if you wish to spend most of a day away from Japan’s capital. 

Known colloquially as the “Black Crow”, Matsumoto Castle (Matsumoto-jo) is one of four castles listed as National Treasures of Japan. Towering above the town below this must-see structure is actually Japan’s oldest wooden castle! Inside the castle is a collection of impressive artefacts and weaponry collected throughout the reigns of its leaders from the 16th century and is worth a visit.

I really had to wonder how ninjas actually managed to hurl themselves up and down the steep 60° angle of the staircases inside. At 5’2”, my legs weren’t long enough to descend the old wooden stairs without shuffling down on my bottom!

FUJINOMIYA

2.5 hours from Tokyo by bullet train, car or bus
Although most foreign visitors pass by on bullet trains between Tokyo & Kyoto, the majority don’t hop off to explore the beauty of the Fujinomiya 富士宮 area. It definitely hasn’t hit the mainstream tourist radar yet, allowing you to have some of the best views of Mt Fuji in the country – without the crowds! 

As the closest city to Mt Fuji on its overlooked western side, Fujinomiya was once the starting point for pilgrims to climb to the summit when Kyoto was Japan’s capital for over 1,000 years. Featuring the new Mt Fuji World Heritage Centre, artisan stores, stunning waterfalls, natural scenery and ancient shrines, why wouldn’t you want to visit Fujinomiya?

I enjoyed a customised foodie tour to help me sample all the local specialties during my visit. There is even a century’s-old sake brewery that uses springwater from Mt Fuji to create all its products! 

In my opinion ,Fujinomiya and its surrounds are one of the best nature day trips from Tokyo.

TIP: Alternatively, read more about the tour my guide to 18 things to do in Fujinomiya as a weekend trip from Tokyo to maximise your experience!

Is Kyoto a good day trip from Tokyo?

3 hours from Tokyo on Tokaido shinkansen (bullet train)
This may be a controversial opinion but no, I personally believe Kyoto 京都 does not make a good day trip from Tokyo for a few reasons. If you absolutely feel as though you need to go in one day, then of course that decision is up to you but I kindly urge you to reconsider.

As a passionate travel writer it’s my duty to provide you with some unpopular truths beyond flashy Instagram photos and provide different perspectives you may not have thought of. Aside from the 6-hour return journey, I hope to make you aware of the below factors for why I don’t recommend Kyoto as a side trip from Tokyo.

Overtourism in Kyoto

In recent years, Kyoto has been absolutely swamped with foreign tourists who all concentrate at a small handful of popular attractions. The tourism board did too good a job in promoting this inspiring destination! 

As I’ve witnessed first-hand and mentioned in my article about overtourism in Japan, the majority of these tourists were day-trippers from outside the city, making it almost unbearable for locals in particular locations from 9am – 6pm. 

Often individuals demonstrating poor behaviour aren’t held accountable as these large groups can be intimidating. Day-tripping coaches showing up with thousands of tourists at a time at popular, crowded destinations like Kyoto and Kamakura (mentioned earlier) are an unsustainable way to see a city and not enjoyable for anyone. 

TIP: Do you really want to rush around and contribute to the problem when there are smarter options to see the city?

Experience old-world charm elsewhere

Obviously the centuries-old allure of Kyoto is a huge drawcard for tourists to Japan. Because it’s perhaps one of the most well-known and preserved Edo-era destinations in the country it’s a natural choice, which is understandable. 

In saying that, if you’ve managed to read this far you’ll now be aware of a few alternative destinations that are much closer to Tokyo to experience old-world charm if you have a single day. Gorgeous Kawagoe, fun Edo Wonderland, jaw-dropping Oshino Hakkai… Each destination has equally intriguing history in its own right – and they don’t take up half a day in travel time to get there. 

Give Kyoto the time it deserves

I honestly can’t stress this enough – there is SO much more to Kyoto than Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kinkaku-ji and Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. For me, whenever I visit this city and cross attractions off my list, I seem to end up learning about many more to add to my next trip! 

Kyoto is a city where it’s definitely beneficial to travel The Invisible Tourist Way. Allow yourself to fall in love by staying longer, dear old Kyoto deserves more of your time than one day! My 4 day Kyoto itinerary allows plenty of time to see the popular spots before and after the hordes of day-trippers flock to them. It also gives you several chances to experience the fun and intrigue of Kyoto at night.

As well the possibility of exploring at an enjoyable, relaxed pace and having the chance to really take in the significance of Japan’s ancient capital, spending a few days means you can also uncover many of Kyoto’s hidden gems. 

The best part is some of these hidden gems feature alternatives to popular spots (like Kodai-ji Temple has its own uncrowded bamboo grove to rival the emerald hues at Arashiyama). Take a look at my detailed hidden gems in Kyoto guide to inspire your separate visit and avoid contributing to overtourism issues.

Where to stay in Tokyo

As I’ve personally stayed in many Tokyo hotels over the years, read my full reviews and honest advice for where to stay in Tokyo, suited for first-time and repeat visitors. Whether you’re flying solo, travelling as a couple, group, family, on business or on a budget, I’ve stayed in a hotel that will suit you when returning after your one day trip from Tokyo!

Concluding the year-round & best Tokyo day trips

That’s a wrap for the places I believe are the best day trips from Tokyo! You really don’t have to travel far to experience neighbourhoods with old-world Edo charm or stunning natural scenery that makes you feel like you’re in a far-away land.

This guide has featured some lesser-known destinations that can be visited any time of the year to make the most of your trip. There is always something exciting incorporating the current season, whether it be blossoms, summer flowers, autumn foliage or snow.

I hope my guide has inspired you to experience some new and exciting places you may not have heard of, and some alternatives to popular places to immerse yourself in Japan’s unique culture! If you’re planning to spend some time in Osaka, my guide to the best Osaka day trips covers alternatives to popular spots, too.

How many of these Tokyo day trips will you add to your itinerary? Let me know in the comments below! If you’re after more inspiration, I have many more travel guides and itineraries here on my Japan travel blog. From finding hidden gems, detailed city guides, best time to visit for cherry blossoms and more, I have your Japan trip covered.

As this guide to Tokyo forms part of my series on Japan’s Golden Route, if you’re interested take a look at my separate guides for Japan’s off the beaten path destinations, hidden gems and reviews of cultural experiences to enrich your trip.

If you found this helpful please share it with your friends as it really helps me out! My Japan Off the Beaten Path Facebook Group shares more ideas like these, or come and join me on Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram and TikTok for more Japan inspiration!

Until next time,