Ready to escape the hustle and bustle of Tokyo? There are so many stunning and unique places to explore just a short distance from the city. Whether you’re looking for a day trip or a longer adventure, there’s something for everyone!
Hakone: Where Nature Meets Art
Hakone is a breathtaking escape, just an hour and 20 minutes from Tokyo. Take the Tokaido Shinkansen to Odawara, then transfer to the Hakone-Tozan Line for a scenic journey to Hakone-Yumoto.
This charming town offers a unique blend of natural beauty and artistic expression. Explore the picturesque Lake Ashi by boat, visiting the serene Hakone Jinja Shrine with its stunning water gates.
But the real gem is the Hakone Open Air Museum. Stroll through lush parklands, admiring a diverse collection of sculptures and artwork, including a captivating Picasso exhibition with both paintings and pottery. There’s something for everyone, from art enthusiasts to families with kids.
And for a breathtaking view, take a ride on the cable car to the top of the mountain. Hakone truly has it all: natural beauty, cultural wonders, and artistic inspiration.
For an unforgettable stay, consider the Prince Hotel, which offers both traditional Japanese and Western-style rooms. There’s also the Hyatt and various smaller ryokan hotels to choose from.
Don’t miss out on the hiking trails and the peaceful atmosphere of Hakone. It’s a place that will surely capture your heart.
Kamakura: History, Culture, and Coastal Charm
Just an hour away from Tokyo by the JR Yokosuka Line, Kamakura awaits with its rich history and charming atmosphere.
This ancient city is a treasure trove of cultural wonders, from temples and shrines to beaches and hiking trails.
Start your journey along the Dankazura, a beautiful paved path leading from Kamakura Station to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu. This path is lined with stunning lanterns, cherry blossom trees, and azalea bushes.
Within the Hachimangu, immerse yourself in the vibrant peony garden with its fragrant blooms, colorful umbrellas, serene ponds, and cherry blossoms.
Kamakura is a great place to explore by bicycle! Rent one at Kamakura Rental Cycles and pedal your way to the majestic Great Buddha of Kotokuin. It’s a truly awe-inspiring sight.
Don’t forget to visit the beautiful beaches and explore the city’s many hiking trails for a truly enriching experience.
Nikko: Natural Splendor and Cultural Delights
Nikko, a mere two hours from Tokyo, is a haven for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike.
Take the Spacia Limited Express Kegon Train from Tokyo’s Tobu-Asakusa station for a comfortable journey to Nikko.
Escape to the serenity of Nikko National Park, where you can hike around Lake Chuzenji and witness the magnificent Kegon Waterfalls.
Nikko’s natural beauty is enhanced by its rich cultural heritage. Explore ancient shrines, experience traditional onsen baths, and immerse yourself in the vibrant Edo Wonderland, a cultural theme park that offers ninja workshops, shows, and the chance to dress up like a ninja.
For a truly unique accommodation, stay at the Woodsman Village. This charming complex of wooden cabins boasts a communal area with a grill and fire pit, making it perfect for families and groups of friends.
Nikko’s stunning autumn foliage and diverse hiking trails make it the perfect destination for an unforgettable getaway.
Mt. Fuji: A Majestic Climb and Luxurious Retreat
Climbing Mt. Fuji is an experience that will stay with you forever.
This iconic mountain offers a challenging yet rewarding climb. While the weather can be unpredictable, the views from the summit are simply breathtaking.
The best time to hike Mt. Fuji is between July 1st and early September. Start at the 5th station for a more manageable climb that takes approximately 6 hours up and 3 hours down.
After conquering the mountain, treat yourself to a stay at the luxurious Kozantei Ubuya, a stunning onsen ryokan overlooking Lake Kawaguchi. It’s the perfect way to relax and rejuvenate after your adventure.
Keep in mind that hiking from the bottom adds a night in a sleep lodge and makes the climb more strenuous.
While the weather can be a factor, a clear day on Mt. Fuji is an experience you won’t forget.
Mt. Takao: A Quick Escape from Tokyo
Looking for a quick and easy escape from the city? Mt. Takao, located just 50 minutes from Shinjuku, offers a breathtaking escape into nature.
This mountain, within metropolitan Tokyo, provides stunning scenery, an interesting temple, and plenty of hiking trails.
Trail number 1 is particularly scenic, paved, and takes about 90 minutes one way. You can also take a cable car or chair lift for a more leisurely ascent.
After your hike, indulge in a unique dining experience at the famous Ukai Toriyama. This restaurant, reminiscent of scenes from Memoirs of a Geisha, features picturesque bridges, ponds, and women in yukata serving you in your own bungalow.
Mt. Takao is the perfect destination for a quick and easy getaway from the city.
Kusatsu: A Hidden Hot Springs Paradise
Kusatsu is a hidden gem, tucked away from the typical tourist circuit. It’s a place where you can truly unwind and reconnect with nature.
Reach Kusatsu by taking the direct limited express train from Tokyo’s Ueno Station to Naganohara-Kusatsuguchi Station. From there, a 30-minute bus ride will take you to this charming town.
Kusatsu is renowned for its numerous hot springs, with over 100 springs pouring out a total of 34,000 liters of sulfurous and acidic water per minute. This mineral-rich water is known for its healing properties.
For an unforgettable stay, choose Boun, an amazing onsen ryokan with private onsen baths in each room. It’s a true sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Escape the crowds and discover the tranquility of Kusatsu, a place where nature’s healing powers meet luxurious comfort.
Shimoda: A Coastal Paradise with White Sandy Beaches
Escape to the beautiful beaches of Shimoda, located in the south of the Izu Peninsula.
Reach Shimoda by taking the Tokaido Shinkansen from Tokyo to Atami, then switch to the Izukyu Railway to the Izukyu Shimoda station.
For a truly luxurious experience, consider the new Izu Craile Resort Train, which travels from Odawara to the Izu Peninsula.
Shimoda offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and activities. Explore the nearby aquarium, hike through scenic trails, and relax on miles of pristine white sandy beaches.
For the perfect accommodation, stay at the White Beach Hotel, conveniently located within walking distance of the beach. This family-friendly hotel boasts a great restaurant and bar.
Shimoda is the perfect destination for a relaxing beach getaway.
Nozawa Onsen: A Winter Wonderland for Skiers and Snow Monkeys
Nozawa Onsen, located in the northern part of Nagano Prefecture, is a charming hot spring and ski resort village.
Reach Nozawa Onsen by taking the bullet train from Tokyo to Iiyama, then transfer to the Nozawa Onsen Liner bus. The bus schedule conveniently matches train arrival times, except for trains arriving after 8 pm.
Nozawa Onsen is a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders during the winter months, thanks to its abundant snowfall.
If you’re not a skier, be sure to visit the snow monkeys! From December 25th to January 25th, these adorable primates seek refuge from the cold in the village’s hot springs.
Experience the magic of the Nozawa Onsen Dosojin Festival on January 15th, a vibrant fire festival that dispels evil spirits and celebrates the birth of a family’s first child.
For accommodation, consider the Sakaya, a beautiful ryokan in the village, or the Kamoshika ski lodge, conveniently located right in front of the lift. You can also choose the Scheider Hotel, a lodge-style hotel on the mountain near the kids’ park.
Nozawa Onsen offers a unique blend of natural beauty, winter sports, and cultural experiences.
From bustling cities to serene mountain retreats, Japan offers an incredible array of destinations just a short distance from Tokyo. So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to explore these hidden gems!
