Tokyo has enough to keep a tourist occupied for weeks on end, but everybody could use a day trip out of the bustling metropolis just to experience a change of pace and feel a little more like a traveler and less like a tourist. Here are my recommendations including notable sights, directions from Tokyo Station, including the approximate cost and recommended time frame. Enjoy!
1. Nikko
Main Sights to See:
Toshogu Shrine: A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its intricate wood carvings and ornate decorations.
Nikko National Park: Explore the scenic beauty of Japan's nature with lush forests, serene lakes, and picturesque waterfalls.
Shinkyo Bridge: An iconic red bridge spanning the Daiya River, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
How to Get There from Tokyo Station:
Train: Take the JR Tohoku Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Utsunomiya Station, then transfer to the JR Nikko Line to Nikko Station. Approximate cost: ¥5,000 (round trip).
Bus: Direct highway buses are available from Tokyo Station to Nikko. Approximate cost: ¥2,000 (one way).
Main Restaurants and Food Items:
Yuba: Nikko is famous for its yuba (tofu skin), served in various dishes such as yuba sushi and yuba hotpot.
Nikko Manju: Sample these sweet buns filled with red bean paste, a local specialty.
Recommended Hours: 8-10 hours
2. Kamakura
Main Sights to See:
Great Buddha of Kamakura: An iconic bronze statue of Buddha dating back to the 13th century.
Hase-dera Temple: Explore the beautiful gardens, caves, and panoramic views of the coastline.
Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine: One of Kamakura's most important shrines, known for its grand wooden structures and serene atmosphere.
How to Get There from Tokyo Station:
Train: Take the JR Yokosuka Line from Tokyo Station to Kamakura Station. Approximate cost: ¥1,000 (one way).
Bus: Direct buses are available from Tokyo Station to Kamakura. Approximate cost: ¥1,200 (one way).
Main Restaurants and Food Items:
Shirasu-don: Try Kamakura's famous dish of fresh raw whitebait served over rice.
Green Tea Ice Cream: Enjoy this refreshing treat made with locally grown green tea.
Recommended Hours: 6-8 hours
3. Hakone
Main Sights to See:
Lake Ashi: Cruise on this scenic lake with views of Mount Fuji on clear days.
Hakone Shrine: Explore this picturesque shrine nestled in the forest along the shores of Lake Ashi.
Owakudani: Witness volcanic activity and enjoy views of sulfur vents and hot springs.
How to Get There from Tokyo Station:
Train: Take the JR Tokaido Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Odawara Station, then transfer to the Hakone Tozan Railway to Hakone-Yumoto Station. Approximate cost: ¥5,000 (round trip).
Bus: Direct highway buses are available from Tokyo Station to Hakone-Yumoto Station. Approximate cost: ¥2,000 (one way).
Main Restaurants and Food Items:
Black Eggs: Boiled in hot springs, these eggs are said to add seven years to your life.
Hakone Soba: Enjoy buckwheat noodles served hot or cold, with various toppings.
Recommended Hours: 10-12 hours
4. Yokohama
Main Sights to See:
Yokohama Chinatown: Explore one of the largest Chinatowns in the world, with bustling streets filled with shops and restaurants.
Minato Mirai 21: Visit landmarks like the Yokohama Landmark Tower, Cosmo Clock 21, and Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse.
Sankeien Garden: Wander through this traditional Japanese garden featuring historic buildings, ponds, and seasonal flora.
How to Get There from Tokyo Station:
Train: Take the JR Tokaido Line or Yokosuka Line from Tokyo Station to Yokohama Station. Approximate cost: ¥500 (one way).
Bus: Direct buses are available from Tokyo Station to Yokohama Station. Approximate cost: ¥1,000 (one way).
Main Restaurants and Food Items:
Iekei Ramen: Try Yokohama's specialty ramen with a rich pork and soy sauce broth.
Shumai: Indulge in steamed dumplings filled with pork and vegetables, a popular snack in Yokohama.
Recommended Hours: 6-8 hours
5. Mount Takao
Main Sights to See:
Mount Takao Summit: Hike to the top of this sacred mountain for panoramic views of Tokyo and Mount Fuji.
Yakuoin Temple: Visit the temple complex with beautiful architecture, statues, and a mountain waterfall.
Takaosan Onsen: Relax and rejuvenate in natural hot springs at the foot of Mount Takao.
How to Get There from Tokyo Station:
Train: Take the Keio Line from Shinjuku Station to Takaosanguchi Station. Approximate cost: ¥600 (one way).
Bus: Direct buses are available from Shinjuku Station to Takaosanguchi Station. Approximate cost: ¥1,000 (one way).
Main Restaurants and Food Items:
Takoyaki: Enjoy savory octopus balls, a popular street food snack at Mount Takao.
Soba Noodles: Savor buckwheat noodles served hot or cold, a perfect meal after a hike.
Recommended Hours: 6-8 hours
As someone who visits Tokyo often, I try to do a day trip at least one day each time I visit. If you go- let me know what you think!
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