The Best Day Trips from Tokyo: 12 Refined Escapes Under Two Hours

Tokyo pulses with energy, but even the most seasoned travelers need a breath of fresh air. When you're ready to swap the city's endless buzz for quiet temples, mountain air, and seaside charm, these effortless day trips offer a deeper look into Japan — all within two hours of the capital by train.

From timeless towns and hot spring retreats to seasonal flower fields and majestic Mount Fuji views, each destination has been handpicked for ease, beauty, and that feeling of discovery. Travel is simple with a JR Pass or IC card, and most routes require nothing more than an early start and a sense of curiosity.

Nikko – Forest Temples & Mountain Mist

A journey to Nikko feels like stepping into another world — one filled with whispering cedars and gilded shrines. Wander the lavish grounds of Toshogu Shrine, marvel at the craftsmanship of its carved gates, and watch mist drift over the sacred Shinkyo Bridge. Continue to the dramatic Kegon Falls or the serene shores of Lake Chuzenji for a deeper dive into nature.

• Approx. 2 hrs from Tokyo

• From Tokyo Station: JR Tohoku Shinkansen to Utsunomiya, then JR Nikko Line (JR Pass OK)

• From Asakusa: Direct Tobu Limited Express to Tobu-Nikko Station (IC card or Tobu Pass)

• Best visited on weekdays for fewer crowds; avoid major holidays like Golden Week and New Year’s

→ View on Google Maps

Hakone – Onsen Trails & Fuji Views

Just beyond Tokyo’s city limits lies Hakone, where travelers can soak in volcanic hot springs, float across Lake Ashi under a crisp blue sky, or admire open-air sculptures nestled in pine forests. On clear winter days, Mount Fuji rises in the distance like a dream. It's a place to slow down — whether over a steamy bath or from a ropeway suspended above the hills.

• 1.5–2 hrs from Tokyo

• Odakyu Romance Car from Shinjuku to Hakone-Yumoto (direct)

• JR Shinkansen to Odawara, then Hakone Tozan Railway (JR Pass to Odawara only)

• Best on weekdays; weekends and public holidays can get crowded

• Winter skies offer the clearest Mount Fuji views

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Kamakura – Buddha by the Sea

A coastal town with a soul. Kamakura’s gentle pace, weathered temples, and sandy paths evoke a sense of quiet reverence. Gaze up at the Great Buddha of Kotokuin, visit hillside sanctuaries like Hasedera, and walk shaded lanes lined with bamboo at Hokokuji. Komachi Street provides tasty breaks — from matcha soft cream to grilled rice crackers.

• Approx. 1 hr from Tokyo

• JR Yokosuka Line from Tokyo to Kamakura Station (JR Pass OK)

• Enoden Line to Hase Station for Buddha and temple access

• Visit on weekdays for a more tranquil experience

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Kawagoe – Little Edo Reimagined

Close to the city, but far in feel, Kawagoe's timeworn merchant streets and charming bell tower recall the Edo period’s simple elegance. Duck into sweet shops along Candy Alley, admire tiled kura storehouses, and savor sweet potato treats — a local staple with centuries of history.

• Approx. 1 hr from Tokyo

• Tobu Tojo Line from Ikebukuro to Kawagoe Station

• JR Saikyo Line to Kawagoe via Omiya (JR Pass OK)

• Easy to enjoy any day; weekends bring more visitors but also more food stalls

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Yokohama – Urban Coast & Global Flavor

Modern but never sterile, Yokohama blends big-city polish with a warm, open feel. From the red brick warehouses of the waterfront to the sizzling stalls of Chinatown, there’s always something fresh to explore. Don’t miss a visit to the Cup Noodles Museum — whimsical, yes, but surprisingly creative.

• 30–45 min from Tokyo

• JR Tokaido, Keihin-Tohoku, or Yokosuka Line from Tokyo/Shinagawa (JR Pass OK)

• Great for a flexible half-day trip, especially on clear afternoons

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Mt. Fuji & Fuji Five Lakes – Picture-Perfect Peaks

For many, seeing Mount Fuji is a dream. At Kawaguchiko, it becomes real — reflected in lakes, framed by pagodas, and admired from peaceful ropeways. In spring, pink petals flutter against its silhouette; in winter, the mountain is crystalline and sharp. Spend the day exploring, or simply sit back and take in the view.

• 2–2.5 hrs from Tokyo

• Fuji Excursion train from Shinjuku to Kawaguchiko (direct)

• Highway bus from Tokyo or Shinjuku to Kawaguchiko

• Best on clear winter days or early spring; avoid weekends and holidays due to return traffic

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Enoshima & Shonan Beaches – Seaside Stories

A short train ride delivers you to island shrines, sea caves, and breezy beach cafés. Cross the causeway to Enoshima, climb to its lighthouse gardens, or relax on the Shonan Coast with a local beer in hand. It’s Tokyo’s seaside playground — casual, cheerful, and easy to love.

• 1–1.5 hrs from Tokyo

• Odakyu Line from Shinjuku to Katase-Enoshima (direct)

• JR Tokaido Line to Fujisawa, then Enoden Line

• Best in summer and early fall, but avoid weekends for quieter beaches

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Chichibu – Slow Roads & Seasonal Beauty

Chichibu is where you go to breathe. In spring, flower parks bloom beneath the hills. In autumn, temples are draped in red and gold. Known for its vibrant festivals and timeless trails, it’s a lovely place to pause, reflect, and enjoy a less-traveled corner of Saitama.

• 1.5–2 hrs from Tokyo

• Seibu Red Arrow Limited Express from Ikebukuro to Seibu-Chichibu

• Visit midweek for the most relaxed pace; ideal during spring blooms or fall foliage

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Mount Takao – Forest Walks & Temple Trails

Within an hour of Tokyo, Mount Takao offers an easy escape into nature. Ride the lift or cable car, visit a mountaintop temple, and hike to panoramic views. In fall, the trees light up with crimson leaves. Stop for a bowl of soba before heading back to the city.

• Approx. 1 hr from Tokyo

• Keio Line from Shinjuku to Takaosanguchi (direct)

• Popular in November for foliage; aim for early mornings or weekdays

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Izu Peninsula – Cliff Paths & Coastal Calm

Stretch your day or stay the night — Izu offers dramatic ocean views, steaming onsen, and quiet fishing towns. Walk the rugged cliffs of Jogasaki, take a dip in an outdoor bath, or explore Mt. Omuro, an extinct volcano you can circle on foot.

• 2–2.5 hrs from Tokyo (longest on the list)

• JR Odoriko Limited Express from Tokyo/Shinjuku to Ito, Atami, or Shimoda (JR Pass partially valid)

• Ideal for overnight stays or quiet weekday escapes; avoid peak holiday weekends

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Hitachi Seaside Park – Fields in Bloom

Nature puts on a show at Hitachi, where spring paints the fields in sky-blue nemophila and autumn turns the hillsides red with kochia. There’s a dreamlike quality here — even the pine forests and small amusement rides feel lifted from a storybook.

• Approx. 2 hrs from Tokyo

• JR Joban Line from Ueno to Katsuta, then local bus

• Visit early in the day to beat crowds; blooms peak in late April and October

→ View on Google Maps

Mashiko – Pottery, Peace & Craftsmanship

Mashiko is quiet, creative, and earthy. Famed for its ceramics, it invites visitors to get their hands dirty — shaping clay, firing pots, or browsing workshops filled with rustic beauty. Time your visit with a pottery fair to see the town at its liveliest.

• Approx. 2 hrs from Tokyo

• JR Utsunomiya Line to Utsunomiya, then bus to Mashiko (JR Pass to Utsunomiya)

• Lovely on weekdays; vibrant during spring and autumn pottery festivals

→ View on Google Maps

Sometimes, it’s the short journeys that stay with us longest. From quiet mountain paths to lively seaside towns, these day trips from Tokyo offer a deeper look into Japan’s many faces — and they’re all just a train ride away.

Day Trips at a Glance