tokyo day trip december

Japan Travel & Culture Guide

10-Day in Tokyo and Hokkaido Itinerary – December

In Japan, we always get to experience all four season. If you take a trip to Japan in early December, you will be able to experience two seasons, late autumn and early winter. How cool is that!

Do you really want to see autumn leaves and have fun in the snow? Seriously you can visit Japan in early December , especially in Tokyo and Sapporo , the capital city of the Hokkaido region and fifth largest city in the country.

From late November to early December is the perfect time to see fall foliage in Tokyo. On the other hand, December is when you can expect to see snow fall and enjoy some winter activities in Hokkaido that include skiing, ice skating, snowboarding, building snowman and etc.

This suggested itinerary here includes the best things to do during your 10 days in Tokyo and Hokkaido. It’s also an itinerary designed to visit the main Tokyo and Sapporo attractions in early December.

Let’s get started!

Day 1 – Welcome to Tokyo

For tourists, it’s always a great idea to decide to stay in a hotel located nearby Shinjuku Station. You can check in to Shinjuku Prince Hotel or Hotel Gracery Shinjuku . Both are perfect for overnight stay.

It’s a free day to roam around for you. You can go anywhere you would like to if you have the time to spend after your flight and before you get to sleep.

If you arrive in downtown Tokyo in the morning from either Haneda or Narita International Airport , then you can think of taking a leisurely stroll in the neighborhood of Shinjuku in the evening. There are lots of bars, restaurants, convenience stores and shopping malls around to be explored.

Day 2 – Tokyo

On your first day, start at the Shinjuku Gyoen , one of the most beautiful and largest parks in Tokyo. During the Edo period , it was the private mansion of the Lord Naito (feudal lord).

The park is about 10 minutes walk from Shinjuku Station (south exit) . Locals believe that Shinjuku Gyoen is one of the best places to see autumn leaves in Tokyo.

Basically it’s a tour to see red maple leaves (momiji). The park has three entrances, so any of the three would be fine to access the park. Early December is a perfect time to visit the park if you are keen to view spectacular autumn leaves.

Take a walk along the walkways in accordance with the garden’s map. When you reach in the area of the Japanese garden, you will see lots of maple trees that change colors quite impressively.

There is one more place that might put a smile on your face, that’s Momijiyama, located on the park’s eastern side, close to Sendagaya gate (one of the three entrances). Except these areas, traditional French and English gardens are also worth exploring as you can see fall foliage.

And don’t be surprised to see some huge ginkgo trees in the park, they look pretty lovely when they are at peak colors.

After spending a few hours in the park, head over to Meiji Jingu Gaien Park . Sendagaya gate would be your exit gate, don’t you forget it. The avenue of Meiji Jingu Gaien is packed with tourists and locals alike in the fall when the annual Ginkgo Festival (Icho matsuri) is celebrated from late November to early December.

With many foods stalls and cafes, this 300 meter long avenue is considered to be one of the best places to see autumn leaves in Tokyo. Go there and marvel at those straining ginkgo leaves before they fall off of the trees.

Make your way down to Takeshita Street , one of Harajuku’s must see spot! This shopping street is quite popular for locals and has rows of shops and stores to buy fashion items, foods, and souvenirs.

Your next stop will be Yoyogi Park . It’s large and adjacent to the famous Meiji Shrine. It has wide lawns, ponds, forested areas and lots of open space to relax and enjoy outdoor nature.

When you are in Yoyogi Park, you will have to visit Meiji Shrine. Spend your time by walking around the shrine’s grounds and exploring its main buildings.

The last attraction for the day is Shibuya Crossing , the busiest crossing in the world. Perhaps this unique intersection is one of Tokyo’s interesting landmarks that you will have to experience when you visit Tokyo.

Day 3 – Tokyo

Tokyo has so much to offer its visitors and often it’s hard to explore and experience all within a week, let alone in 2 days! However, for day three, interesting places to visit in the city are the Rikugi-en garden, Tokyo National Museum, Ueno Park, Sensoji temple, and Tokyo Skytree.

Start day 3 with a trip to Rikugien Garden , perhaps the most beautiful Japanese landscape garden along with Koishikawa Korakuen.

Are you thinking about “how to reach Rikugien garden from Shinjuku Station?” Just hop on a train that runs along the JR Yamanote Line (clockwise). It will take about 16 minutes to reach Komagome Station. From there, it’s just a few minutes of walk.

Japanese landscape garden looks impressive in the fall and spring. Since you are going to visit the garden in early December, it’s obvious that you will be astonished seeing tons of gorgeous red maple leaves there.

You can gladly spend one or two hours in this picturesque garden. The admission fee is 300 yen.

Next on your tour of Tokyo should be Ueno Park , which is a short walk from Ueno Station. The park is huge and there are a lot of things to see and experience from Tokyo National Museum to Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum and Ueno Zoo, the first zoological garden of Japan.

With largest collection of national treasures and important cultural items, the Tokyo National Museum is a perfect place to learn Japanese culture and history.

A visit to the museum also lets you witness the best collections of art and archeological artifacts in Japan. Please note the Tokyo National Museum is said to be the largest museum in Japan.

You will find a lot of restaurants in Ueno area, head to one that meets your taste. After eating your lunch, head to the Sensoji (Asakusa Kannon temple). This is one of the popular Buddhist temples in Tokyo.

Explore its main Hall and buy souvenirs from the shop when you walk down the Nakamise, a lively historic shopping street.

As you come towards the end of your third day, you may enjoy heading up into the sky for great views over the city.

The spectacular Tokyo Skytree is a sight to behold and lately it’s one of Tokyo’s most visited attractions.

Head to this iconic tower (634 meter) and enjoy a stunning 360° view over Tokyo city! Sunset view from the observation decks is marvelous. You won’t regret it!

Day 4 – Tokyo

Tokyo is all about the good times! You have so many options to do including various day trips that you can take right from downtown Tokyo.

Today you are not going to take a day trip from the city; instead there are some other incredible places you have to explore. Are you ready to have some fun?

Kick off an exciting day at Koishikawa Korakuen , another beautiful Japanese landscape garden that’s ablaze with colors in autumn.

The garden is a 5-10 minute walk from Iidabashi Station. Koishikawa Koreakuen is a place of scenic beauty.

With its three ponds, the garden possesses all the elements of a traditional Japanese landscape garden has, such as manmade hills, stones, stone lanterns, trees, and bridges.

There is no better place to view all those garden elements in Tokyo than Koishikawa Koreakuen, and that’s why it should be on your radar!

After you have experienced the marvelous autumn colors beauty in the garden, continue on to another iconic site, the Tokyo Imperial Palace. Located on the former site of Edo Castle, this is a large park with stone walls, moats, gardens, and impressive walkways.

There are free guided tours for the palace visitors. When you follow this itinerary here, you don’t need to join the free guided tour, instead enjoy your time exploring the site (reachable areas) all by yourself; it’s kind of a little adventure!

While there, make sure you discover the area of the Imperial Palace East Garden, Kitanomaru Park, National Museum of Modern Art, Nijubashi Bridge . The bridge can be seen from Kokyo Gaien, the large plaza in front of the Imperial Palace.

I would highly recommend you to visit Hibiya Park , another interesting place to enjoy autumn leaves in Tokyo.

For locals, the park is an ideal spot for an evening stroll. You will be surprised seeing a giant gingko tree there which is said to be 500 years old.

Next destination for the day is Ginza , a popular nightlife district in Tokyo, but there are a lot of things to do during the day as well. It’s one of Tokyo’s top shopping districts.

You must walk along the Chuo Dori Street, the main shopping street in Ginza area. Pay a visit to UNIQLO in the Ginza area of Tokyo, and you will have a great experience. Find some other best shopping areas in Tokyo here .

Day 5 – Take a Day trip to Kamakura from Tokyo

Kamakura is a coastal town in Kanagawa Prefecture, and it is one of the best day trips to take from Tokyo.

When you have time to stay more than 3 days in Tokyo City, take the opportunity to get out of Tokyo and see more of Japan’s iconic landmarks.

Would you like you know how to spend a lovely in Kamakura? Read the article here .

Day 6 – Tokyo to Sapporo

Tokyo expedition is over; and it’s time to head over to Hokkaido!

There is nothing much to say about Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island. The island has got everything to make one’s journey unforgettable and there’s adventure around every corner.

You will be astonished seeing its unspoiled nature and jaw-dropping scenery all year round and the local food here is delicious.

In early December, you won’t see a lot of snow on the grounds in Sapporo, but surly in the north of Hokkaido.

You will not have to travel that much far in the north to see snow; instead you will visit two amazing areas known as Biei and Furano. These two beautiful towns are famous for flower fields during the months of summer.

Any domestic flight will get you from Haneda Airport, Tokyo to New Chitose Airport in just 1 hour and 30 minutes. From the airport in Chitose, you can get to Sapporo either by train or bus. Taxi will be expensive but MK Taxi Sapporo is quite affordable!

When you are Sapporo, make sure that you stay in a hotel, which is located either nearby JR Sapporo Station or close to the City’s main attractions. Hotel Gracery and Nest Hotel Sapporo Ekimae is a great example of it.

You don’t have a busy schedule for today, except visiting Odori Park, Sapporo TV Tower, Mount Moiwa, and Susukino. These attractions can be visited after you take a good nap!

You won’t have to use any car or public transport to visit the above places except Mount Moiwa. The Sapporo TV Tower itself is part of Odori Park.

First attraction for today is Mount Moiwa Ropeway . The views from Mount Moiwa’s top observatory is particularly amazing than what you see while the ropeway takes you to the upper ropeway station by cable cars.

Mount Moiwa is a popular attraction for the night view over Sapporo city. Make sure that you reach the summit (observatory) before sunset.

What happens in December at Odori Park is spectacular. The park hosts one of Sapporo’s winter illuminations called Sapporo White Illumination usually from late November to late December.

You will never get bored when you walk around or sit one of the park’s benches during the illumination event.

If you are not tired and still want to explore something unique, my advice to you is take a walk from the park to Susukino , a red light district of Sapporo. The area comprises many restaurants, bars, pubs, and clubs, and karaoke shops.

Day 7 – A day in Sapporo

Nijo Market is a great place to begin your adventure in the city. Visit this fresh seafood market in the morning, find a restaurant and then enjoy your breakfast there. You won’t regret it.

See more of Sapporo on day two of your stay in the city by experiencing the beauty of the Historical Village of Hokkaido , an open air museum located in Nopporo Forest Park .

The museum is divided into four sections: city area, farm village, fishing village, and mountain village.

Each of the section has their own style of beauty and lots of things to learn from and see. Take a bus from Shin-Sapporo station to the museum, which will take about 5 minutes.

Make your way over to the popular Snow Cruise Onze for a few hours of fun and ski adventure. This ski resort is located in Otaru area, which is only a 45-minute bus ride away from Sapporo’s Miyanosawa Subway Station along Tozai Line .

The ski resort opens in mid November every year and that lets visitors to experience snow and early ski season in the region.

At the mountaintop, there is an observatory from where you can marvel at the beautiful vistas of Ishikari Bay . Night skiing here is a quite popular winter activity.

Return to Sapporo and enjoy the evening on your own.

Day 8 – Sapporo to Biei

You can’t visit Furano without seeing the Blue Pond; this iconic sightseeing spot in Biei town is very popular place to visit for tourists and can be visited year-round.

Before you get to Biei, you may visit one of Japan’s best zoos called Asahiyama Zoo . It houses some rare species of animals including native wildlife of the Hokkaido region, such as eagles, cranes, wolves and deer.

From Asahikawa Station you can either take a bus or taxi to reach the zoo.

How to get to Asahikawa from Sapporo? The easiest and fastest way to access Asahiakwa from Sapporo is by limited express train. It’s a-80 minute journey from Sapporo Station to Asahikawa Station.

While there, you go to a branch office of Yamato Transport Co., Ltd. located inside AEON Mall Asahikawa Station . It offers temporary luggage storage service for tourists, so let them take care of your luggage before you get to the zoo.

Tonight you will be staying at Yumoto Shirogane-Onsen Hotel in Biei , located at the foot of Mount Tokachi-dake.

You will be happy to know that this ryokan is located very close to Shirahige waterfalls ; and you can even go to the Blue Pond on foot from the hotel (30-40 minutes walk).

Enjoy a relaxing hot spring bath there and of course enjoy the food and sleep tight.

Day 9 – A morning stroll to the Blue Pond and more to come

In the morning, visit the Blue Pond . According to my experience, the best time to visit this beautiful scenic spot is in the morning.

Excessive snowfall makes it frozen and covers the pond with snow. However, the views still look picturesque and tranquil.

Before you head to the onsen, you should stop by the waterfall . In December, you will experience half frozen waterfall though the view is mind-boggling!

If you don’t want to walk to the blue pond, better wait for the bus to get there.

Would you like to stay one more day and night in Biei? If you say yes, then visit Furano ski resort and spend the evening at Ningle Terrace that houses many beautiful cottage shops.

These shops are illuminated with lights at night and they look very romantic when the roofs and walkways are covered with lots of snow!

If you can’t stay an extra night in Biei, then Check out and head to Biei Station, afterwards wait for a train to get to Asahikawa Station. From there you get on a limited express train to Sapporo Station.

Spend the evening visiting some of Sapporo’s best shopping malls, such as Sapporo ESTA, Daimaru, Sapporo Stellar Palace, and PARCO.

This hotel here is situated very close to JR Sapporo Station. Stay overnight there.

That’s the end of your Hokkaido trip in December.

Day 10 – Sapporo to New Chitose Airport

One way ride from Sapporo Station to New Chitose Airport Station takes about 35 minutes and costs 1070 yen. After arriving at the airport, you can spend some time roaming around it and buy things/souvenirs from the shops to bring home.

Afterwords, complete the immigration process and wait for the time to board your flight back to your next destination.

If you want more inspiration, read about autumn leaves in Tokyo , and the best things to do in Hokkaido in winter , hopefully these will get you excited.

What do you think of this suggested itinerary? It would be great if you begin your trip from December 1st ! If there is any question regarding your next trip to Japan, please feel free to contact us.

Have a safe and enjoyable trip to Japan in December. Thanks for reading.

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This is incredible! I have been to Japan twice now and while planning my third trip I was looking to explore an area I hadn’t been to already. Your itinerary was exactly what I was looking for. Thank you so much!

Hope you will have a great time in Hokkaido. Thank you!

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Hello there, looking to plan your next Japan adventure? You’re in the right place! We’re your go-to source for all things travel-related, especially when it comes to exploring Hokkaido. We share Hokkaido travel tips and free itineraries to make your trip truly memorable. Read our guides and for further inquiries, feel free to contact us!

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Hot spring bath with great views of Mt. Fuji!!!!

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Asia , Travel Guides · March 6, 2023

Top 15 Things to do in Tokyo in December

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please see my full disclosure for further information.

Tokyo, Japan’s largest city and capital, is home to over 13 million people! It is a global center of finance, culture, fashion, and technology and draws many visitors annually. This city holds a special place in my heart because I studied abroad for half a year, and it was my first time moving to another country alone. I was there during the Winter months and am excited to share my favorite things to do in Tokyo in December!

Is Tokyo Safe? 

Tokyo, and Japan in general, are considered incredibly safe. Tokyo is one of the few cities where I feel comfortable walking outside alone at night. The city is well-lit, and there are usually people out and about at all times; the crime rate is low, and it ranks high in safety on Geosure (one of the best safety rating  apps ). 

I recommend taking general precautions such as staying alert, securing your belongings with this  anti-theft bag , and staying in populated areas. However, Tokyo is one of the best cities to visit, especially as a solo female traveler! Don’t forget to check out these  tips   if it is your first solo adventure. 

December Weather

December is the winter season, and the weather can be chilly and dry. The average high temperature during the day is around 11 degrees Celsius (52 degrees Fahrenheit), while the average low temperature at night is about 4 degrees Celsius (39 degrees Fahrenheit). However, it can go below freezing some days. Pack a winter coat and these  essentials  for your trip!

Without further ado, here are the top things to do in Tokyo in December:

See the Winter Illuminations

The Winter illuminations are a highly anticipated annual event, attracting locals and tourists alike to look at the stunning lights displayed throughout the city. Many neighborhoods feature unique illuminations, with popular locations including Roppongi Hills, Tokyo Midtown, Omotesando, and my favorite, Shibuya. Remember to check out the Daiba Memorial tree in Odaiba!

The illuminations usually begin in late November and run throughout Tokyo in December and early January. Some larger installations are accompanied by music or other fun features, creating a unique and lively atmosphere. The illuminations can draw large crowds, so I recommend visiting during the week or early in the evening. 

Go to the Christmas Markets

The Christmas markets, modeled after the German Christmas markets, are another fun way to celebrate December in Tokyo! They sell handmade crafts, decorations, food, and mulled wine. They can sometimes feature live performances and music, adding to the atmosphere!

My favorite Christmas market is the one at Roppongi Hills, but you can also find them in other places, such as Yokohama and Hibiya Park. Like the Illuminations, they are open from late November to Late December, with some extending into early January. 

Enjoy KFC and a Christmas Cake 

Japan has some unique Christmas traditions! On the actual Christmas day, it is customary to have KFC for dinner. This results from a successful 1970s KFC advertising campaign promoting fried chicken as a Christmas meal.

It is also tradition to have a Christmas cake, usually a sponge cake decorated with whipped cream and strawberries! I have seen ones with entertaining and elaborate designs, too. December in Tokyo is the perfect time to celebrate these unique customs. 

Go Shopping and Experience Fukubukoro 

Tokyo is a fashion and technology capital, making it a fun place to shop! You can stroll through the streets of Harajuku admiring the colorful and quirky fashion, try Shibuya for cutting-edge style, or head to Giza for luxury and designer boutiques. The possibilities are endless, and there is something for everyone!

If you are there for the New Year, you can experience Fukubukoro! This Japanese New Year’s custom involves buying a “lucky bag” filled with unknown contents. These mystery bags are typically sold by department stores, retailers, and other shops in the days leading up to New Year’s. The value of the contents in the bag generally exceeds the cost of the bag, and you can get some fabulous finds! 

See the Odaiba Rainbow Fireworks

The Odaiba rainbow fireworks display is breathtaking, typically occurring every Saturday at 7:00 PM throughout December. The show lasts approximately 10 minutes and is accompanied by music, creating a festive and celebratory atmosphere. With the backdrop of Tokyo Bay and Rainbow Bridge, this event typically draws a large crowd.

Go to an Onsen

An Onsen, or Japanese hot spring, is the perfect way to combat the cold and relax during the Winter. They are easy to find throughout Tokyo and one of my favorite December activities. Onsens are typically separated by gender, and people enter the hot springs naked. Entering naked may feel weird if you were raised in Western culture, but it is part of routine life in Japan.

I felt so clean and refreshed the first time I visited a hot spring! It became a staple of my time in Tokyo. They can be indoors or outdoors (which feels fantastic with the cold air in December) and are typically low cost ($3 to $20). If you decide to take a day trip to Hakone, you can even go to  one with a beautiful view of mount Fuji!  

Day Trip to Mount Hakone

Hakone is a fun day trip from Tokyo; the town has historical and cultural significance. Depending on your interests, there is much to do, from museums to hiking to eating delicious food. It is known for its natural beauty, hot springs, and stunning views of mount Fuji! 

It takes approximately 1.5 hours to reach Hakone from Tokyo using an express train. I recommend taking the train early to spend the entire day there. 

Other than the hot spring mentioned above, there are two activities you cannot miss:

• Visit Owakudani : Owakudani is a volcanic valley located in the area. The area is geologically active, and you can see the steam rising from the ground, causing a sulfuric smell. Spend some time hiking the trails, and don’t forget to eat the black egg, cooked in the sulfuric hot springs and sold in the area, which supposedly adds seven years to your life!
•   Visit the Hakone Shrine : Hakone shrine is not only a beautiful Instagram spot, but the gate on the lake, also known as the Torii of Peace, symbolizes a transition to the sacred. The main shrine is located a short climb behind the initial gate and has an ethereal feeling. 

Warm up with Ramen and Sake

What trip to Japan is complete without experiencing ramen and sake? Ramen is cheap (costing around $8) and abundant in Tokyo, with many ramen restaurants staying open past 3 AM for those who want a bite after clubbing! I have not had one bad bowl of ramen in Tokyo, so you cannot go wrong. 

Just a few stops from Shibuya or Shinjuku station, Tsuta Japanese Soba Noodles is my favorite. It earned a Michelin Star for its truffle-infused ramen. I went with six friends, and no one said a word throughout the meal because the flavors entranced us. Make sure to reserve your spot well in advance! 

Try Ice Skating

Ice Skating rinks are typically open from mid-November to late February, making it one of the top things to do in December in Tokyo. Mitsui Fudosan, the biggest rink, is in the Tokyo Midtown complex. It lights up at night, creating a fun and festive atmosphere! Tickets cost around $20, and it is easy to enjoy this activity after a fun shopping day. Located near Roppongi, you can get there using Tokyo’s convenient public transportation system. 

Visit the Tokyo Skytree

Tokyo Skytree provides breathtaking views of Tokyo! Tickets cost $20 to $30, depending on how many observation decks you want to access. I recommend getting the more expensive ticket to access all of the views. Standing at over 2000 feet, it is one of the world’s tallest towers.

I recommend booking a ticket for a little bit before sunset. Watching the sun setting over Tokyo is one of my fondest memories of my time in Japan. The sight will leave you in awe. 

Explore the Imperial Palace 

Tokyo Imperial Palace is a short walk from Tokyo Station and is the residence of Japan’s Imperial family. Surrounded by moats and stone walls, the New Imperial Palace was initially constructed in 1888 and rebuilt after it was destroyed during WW2. 

You can take a free 75-minute guided tour of the palace at 10 AM and 1:30 PM any day except for Mondays and Sundays. The East Gardens are always open to the public, so check them out! Unfortunately, the inner grounds are not accessible to the public except on January 2nd and February 23rd (the Emperor’s birthday).

Experience the Tokyo Great Santa Run

The Tokyo Great Santa run is a more recent Japanese tradition. Originally started in Osaka in 2009, the Tokyo Great Santa run is a great way to get into the Christmas spirit through costume and the opportunity to give to charity! Taking place at the Komazawa Olympic Park, all proceeds go to help hospitalized children. 

You can choose between a 2.7-mile run and a 1.3-mile walk. The $25 fee gets you a handmade Santa suit for the run. The atmosphere is enjoyable, and you can stick around for activities and performances around the park. Overall, this fun tradition embodies the heart of Christmas!  

Visit Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea

Though I did not visit Tokyo Disneyland, I did visit DisneySea and had the time of my life! Disneyland is more geared towards children and families, while DisneySea is geared towards adults in its entertainment, food, and drinks. 

I recommend DisneySea for solo travelers because of the atmosphere and because it is the only DisneySea in the world, making the experience special. Inspired by the ocean, DisneySea includes classics such as the Tower of Terror and Toy Story Mania!

One-day passes are approximately $60 and are worth the price! You can easily reach the park through the Tokyo train system. It is a great day trip and perfect for a mild December day. 

Visit Tokyo Dome City

Tokyo Dome City is a fun entertainment center centered around the Tokyo Dome, home to the Yomiuri Giants baseball team. There is a shopping complex, many dining options, a spa, amusement park rides, and more. There is something fun to do for everyone!

I highly recommend trying the roller coaster; It is outdoors but has a section where it goes through a hole in a building, giving a thrilling experience! Meanwhile, the Ferris wheel allows you to see stunning views of the Tokyo skyline. 

If you feel courageous, try the ONRYOU ZASHIK, a haunted house that opened recently in 2018. Without giving too much away, it is unlike any haunted house I have seen, and you are given a mission to complete. It is scary! One of my friends even panicked and pushed me in front of one of the actors that popped out at us, so be careful who you take with you! 

These were some of my favorite experiences, but you can also spend the day shopping in LaQua, bowling, snow tubing, or checking out the Christmas market! It is the perfect cold-weather city activity. 

Visit teamLab Planets

Last but not least, teamLab Planets is arguably my favorite activity in Tokyo, and it is ideal for a cold or rainy day! Opened in July 2018, this museum in Toyosu has several digital art attractions and theme rooms that transport you to a new world. Many of the rooms are interactive through motion and touch. 

My favorite room is “The Infinite Crystal Universe,” which features thousands of LED lights that make it look like you are walking through endless stars. Touching certain areas of the exhibit can trigger different light reactions. You can easily spend a few hours in this museum!

Overall, Tokyo is a fantastic city to visit, and there are so many fun, seasonal things to do in December! Do not let the colder weather stop you from visiting this city and experiencing the magical events, exhibitions, and special activities open during the holidays. 

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Things To Do In Tokyo In December 2023: Tokyo’s Best December Events

• Tokyo , Things To Do

In December 2023, Tokyo presents a range of captivating winter attractions that offer visitors an immersive experience in the city’s vibrant ambiance.

Notable among these are the winter illuminations, which showcase Tokyo’s beauty in a magical manner at locations like Tokyo Mega Illumination, Tokyo Skytree Town, and Marunouchi Winter Illumination.

Plus, an array of events and festivals, including the Mt. Takao Autumn Leaves Festival, Yves Saint Laurent Exhibition, and Great Santa Run Tokyo, provide further opportunities for enjoyment.

Tokyo’s Cultural Encounters and Abundant Events offer visitors a glimpse into the city’s rich traditions and heritage.

This article provides comprehensive information on transportation accessibility, event details, and key features, facilitating visitors in planning their itinerary and making the most of Tokyo’s enchanting winter delights.

Key Takeaways

• Tokyo offers a wide range of winter illuminations, including the Tokyo Mega Illumination at Oi Racecourse, Tokyo Skytree Dream Christmas at Tokyo Skytree Town, and Akihabara UDX Illumination.
• There are various events and festivals taking place in Tokyo during December 2023, such as the Mt. Takao Autumn Leaves Festival, Yves Saint Laurent Exhibition at The National Art Center, and the Great Santa Run Tokyo at Komazawa Olympic Park.
• Visitors can explore cultural experiences in Tokyo, including Tokyo’s Cultural Encounters and Tokyo’s Abundant Events, which provide opportunities to immerse in the city’s rich traditions and customs.
• Access to these events and illuminations is convenient, with transportation options available to key locations such as Sengakuji Temple, Asakusa Station, and Odaiba and the Rainbow Bridge.

Events and Festivals

The Events and Festivals in December 2023 in Tokyo offer a diverse range of cultural experiences, such as the Mt. Takao Autumn Leaves Festival, Yves Saint Laurent Exhibition at The National Art Center, and MUTEK Japan – Electronic Music, Art, and Technology Festival.

The Mt. Takao Autumn Leaves Festival showcases the beautiful autumn foliage of Mt. Takao, providing visitors with breathtaking views and a chance to immerse themselves in nature.

The Yves Saint Laurent Exhibition at The National Art Center presents a unique opportunity to explore the life and work of one of the most influential fashion designers of the 20th century.

MUTEK Japan – Electronic Music, Art, and Technology Festival is a vibrant celebration of cutting-edge electronic music and multimedia art, featuring performances, workshops, and installations.

These events and festivals in Tokyo offer a rich tapestry of cultural experiences that cater to diverse interests and desires for freedom in exploration.

Winter Illuminations

Featuring extravagant displays of lights and decorations, the winter illuminations in Tokyo offer visitors a captivating sensory experience. These illuminations, held at various locations throughout the city, transform Tokyo into a magical winter wonderland.

The illuminations showcase the artistic creativity and technological prowess of the city, with stunning light displays, interactive installations, and synchronized music performances. Visitors can stroll through beautifully illuminated parks, gardens, and shopping districts, taking in the breathtaking displays and immersing themselves in the festive atmosphere.

The following table provides a glimpse into some of the notable winter illuminations in Tokyo:

Each illumination offers a unique experience, with its own theme and ambiance. From the grandeur of the Tokyo Mega Illumination to the ethereal beauty of Rikugien Garden Autumn Illumination, these winter illuminations in Tokyo provide a memorable and enchanting experience for visitors.

Access and Locations

Access and locations for the winter illuminations in Tokyo vary, with each illumination being held at specific venues throughout the city. Visitors can easily access these enchanting displays by utilizing Tokyo’s efficient transportation system.

The following sub-lists highlight the accessibility options and notable locations for experiencing the winter illuminations:

Transportation Options:

• Tokyo Metro: The extensive subway network provides convenient access to many illumination venues.
• JR Lines: The Japan Railways (JR) lines offer access to various locations, including popular areas like Shinjuku and Odaiba.
• Bus Services: Tokyo’s bus system connects different parts of the city, making it a viable transportation option for reaching the illuminations.

Notable Locations:

• Roppongi Hills: This upscale district showcases a dazzling winter illumination display with stunning views from Tokyo City View.
• Marunouchi: The area surrounding Tokyo Station is transformed into a winter wonderland, featuring beautiful light installations.
• Odaiba: With its futuristic atmosphere, Odaiba offers a unique setting for winter illuminations, complemented by the iconic Rainbow Bridge.

Exploring Tokyo’s winter illuminations provides a sense of freedom as visitors navigate the city’s accessible transportation options and discover the enchanting displays at various locations throughout the city.

Winter Events

Tokyo offers a variety of winter events and illuminations that captivate visitors with their enchanting displays and festive atmosphere. The illuminations take place at various locations throughout the city, such as the Oi Racecourse, Tokyo Skytree Town, Akihabara UDX, Marunouchi, Rikugien Garden, Roppongi Hills, Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Harajuku, and Shibuya. These illuminations showcase intricate light displays, creating a magical ambiance that is perfect for strolling and taking memorable photographs.

Plus, Tokyo hosts a range of events and festivals during the winter season, including the Mt. Takao Autumn Leaves Festival, Yves Saint Laurent Exhibition, Great Santa Run Tokyo, and the Philippine Festival. These events provide opportunities for cultural experiences, entertainment, and shopping.

Visitors can easily access these venues through Tokyo’s efficient transportation system. Tokyo’s winter events offer a delightful experience for those seeking a joyous and culturally enriching holiday season.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit tokyo for winter events and illuminations.

The best time to visit Tokyo for winter events and illuminations is in December. The city comes alive with stunning winter illuminations and a variety of festivals and events, offering a magical and enchanting experience for visitors.

Are the winter illuminations and events in Tokyo free to attend?

The winter illuminations and events in Tokyo may have both free and paid options. Some events, such as the Marunouchi Winter Illumination and the Rikugien Garden Autumn Illumination, are free to attend, while others may require tickets or admission fees.

Are the winter events and illuminations suitable for children?

The winter events and illuminations in Tokyo are suitable for children. They offer a variety of family-friendly activities and attractions that cater to all ages, including light displays, festive markets, and cultural experiences.

Are the venues for the events and illuminations wheelchair accessible?

The venues for the events and illuminations in Tokyo are wheelchair accessible. This ensures that individuals with mobility challenges can also enjoy the enchanting winter delights and cultural experiences the city has to offer.

Are the winter events and illuminations in Tokyo pet-friendly?

The pet-friendliness of Tokyo’s winter events and illuminations is not explicitly stated. It is recommended to contact the organizers or check their websites for specific information regarding pet policies and restrictions at each venue.

To sum it up, Tokyo’s enchanting winter delights offer a captivating and immersive experience for visitors in December 2023.

From the vibrant events and festivals like the Mt. Takao Autumn Leaves Festival and Yves Saint Laurent Exhibition to the stunning winter illuminations at Tokyo Mega Illumination and Tokyo Skytree Town, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

The accessibility information provided makes it convenient for travelers to navigate the city and explore these magical attractions.

Tokyo’s rich cultural encounters and abundant events add a touch of heritage and tradition, making it a truly unforgettable winter destination.

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8 Day Trips From Tokyo Ideas: Winter 2023-2024

Enjoy the cold with these winter day trips from Tokyo

November 29, 2022 Updated On November 29, 2023

We’ve rounded up the best Tokyo day trips to make the most of the winter months, all reachable in under two hours from the capital. There are activities from skiing in Karuizawa to visiting illuminated icicles in Chichibu. We also have a top-rated onsen town, Christmas markets and, for those who want to stay inside, a free buffet in Gunma.

1. Try Winter Sports in Karuizawa

Skiing, snowboarding and soba.

For Tokyoites looking to make the most of the snow, head to Karuizawa for a quick jaunt. Just over an hour away from the capital by bullet train, the area is famed for its powdery snow and wide variety of ski slopes .

Known as the earliest ski resort to open its doors each year, keen skiers, snowboarders and skaters can enjoy the exhilarating trails from November through to April. There are a range of courses across Karuizawa, catering to people of all levels. First-timers are welcome too, with many resorts offering beginners classes in English.

Even those who don’t partake in the sporty side of things can enjoy the parks and resorts. Cable cars to the top of the mountains allow punters to appreciate the spectacular snowy views while sipping on hot amazake. Delicious soba noodles are served at most of the restaurants, allowing visitors to sample famous Nagano Prefecture soba, fresh from the source.

2. Eat Delicious Hoto in Yamanashi

Try yamanashi’s ultimate winter food.

No food says winter in Japan more than a hotpot. Hoto, a local delicacy found in Yamanashi Prefecture, is a special variation on a typical Japanese hotpot. Containing thick, steaming noodles in a miso broth with root vegetables and meat, the hoto hotpot is thicker and stodgier.

As with traditional Japanese hotpots, hoto is made in a big pot, with everyone in the group gathering round as it cooks. If a barbecue on the beach is your idea of a perfect summer night activity, then hoto is your ideal winter meal. Highly recommended is  Koshu Hoto Kosaku.  It’s the real deal.

3. Admire Icicles in Chichibu

Discover chichibu’s famous formations.

Chichibu in Saitama Prefecture is a surprising icicle haven, with three of the country’s most impressive icicle formations, known as The Three Icicles of Chichibu .

The best known is the Misotsuchi icicle formation , the only formation that was formed completely naturally. Located on Arakawa River, the 10-meter-tall, 30-meter-wide icicles are an impressive sight. During the Otaki Ice Festival, the icicles are lit up into magical frozen falls. Local campgrounds are on hand to serve hot refreshments and cups of hot sake to visitors.

The next is a surprisingly new addition, discovered in 2015: the Icicles of Ashigakubo. Partly natural, partly manmade, locals help to make these spectacular natural formations even more impressive. One of the icicles is 200 meters tall and 30 meters wide. The formation is easily accessible from the station. Despite being new, it is already very popular.

The third of the trio is the Onouchi Icicles, a formation seen from over a suspension bridge. Locals serve hot drinks for free, including amazake and tea,. They also keep a bonfire going to harness that winter spirit.

4. Visit a Winter Illumination

A winter wonderland.

Winter illuminations are one of the best parts of winter — a failsafe activity for the whole family. There are many in Tokyo itself, but how about making a trip out of the capital and heading further afield?

Yomiuri Land theme park in Kanagawa Prefecture is famed for its annual illuminations that turn the park into a sparkling world every winter. Created by Japan’s most famous lighting designer, Mokoto Ishii, many people make the trip to experience the dazzling glow, which features a different theme each year. This year is ‘ Jewellumination ,’ based on the theme of “Light is Love,” using a record-breaking 6.5 million lights.

5. Chase Waterfalls in Ibaraki

Head to the beautiful fukuroda falls.

Ibaraki is a massively under-appreciated prefecture, and so easy to access from Tokyo, that it makes for a perfect winter day trip. Its famous Fukuroda Falls are subject to a spectacular illumination in the winter months, drawing thousands of visitors each year.

6. Visit Gunma’s Pink Shrine and Enjoy a Free Konnyaku Buffet

Head to konnyaku park gunma.

The weather is getting colder but visitors to Konnyaku Park need not worry. Enjoy the delights of konnyaku under cover of the giant Konnyaku Park complex, which houses a variety of konnyaku attractions to please even the most inquisitive of youngsters.

Visitors to the theme park can enjoy learning all about how konnyaku is made and try their hand at making their own. Elsewhere, there is a free all-you-can-eat konnyaku buffet, featuring an all-star lineup of konnyaku products, from shirataki noodles to orange jelly. There is even a shrine to the humble vegetable in bright pink, which doubles as an Instagram-worthy picture spot and looks even better in the snow.

7. At the Metsa Village in Saitama

The delightful Moomin Village in Saitama puts on a cosy Christmas event each year, introducing the world to the wonders of a Scandinavian Christmas. With illuminations, a giant Christmas tree, Christmas drinks and Christmas pie, there’s something for everyone to get into the festive spirit.

Visitors can even try their hand at various Christmas crafts, including make-your-own Scandinavian mugs (kuksa), and enjoy Nordic Christmas carol events.

Other Christmas and seasonal markets include the one at  Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse and Roppongi Christmas Market .

Kusatsu Yubatake | Photo by Infinity T29 via Shutterstock

8. Heat up in an Onsen Town

Soak in kusatsu onsen and watch the yubatake.

Kusatsu Onsen in Gunma is known for its sulfuric hot spring water. While it smells like eggs, it will also have your skin glowing. The onsen town is compact with many Edo-style shops and vendors selling local goods and traditional items. Buy fresh, steaming manju buns from a vendor and the yubatake (hot spring field) in the town center, dressed in pajamas from your ryokan. The hot spring baths are in such close proximity — both to themselves and the hotels — that guests wander the town wearing slippers, heading from one onsen to the next.

Kusatsu takes part in a special stirring tradition known as yumomi . Staff ceremoniously stir the hot spring water with large wooden planks in order to cool it, often singing while doing so. This makes for a surprisingly thrilling spectacle. Guests can experience yumomi throughout the year, but there’s nothing like watching the hot water being stirred amid the frost of winter.

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10 Best Things to Do in Tokyo in Winter

Bryce was born in California, but raised from the age of 3 near Seattle, Washington. He’s been living in Tokyo for about 7 years, and graduated from Temple University, Japan with degrees in economics and international business. He loves traveling of course, but also cooking, snowboarding, some video games as well. His biggest interest is songwriting/music production, more specifically electronic music… (think Skrillex, Marshmello, Daft Punk, etc.) He also has terrible humor as you’ll notice, but he hopes you’ll enjoy it!

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When you consider Tokyo ’s vibrant synergy of old traditions and futuristic elements, the city is already an everyday phenomenon – and during the holidays it becomes a wild and unique display of all things wintery. Among mesmerizing light displays, festivals , fireworks and Christmas markets, there is certainly no shortage of ways to enjoy the colder season. No matter what your idea of winter fun is, you’ll surely find something entertaining to do in Tokyo!

1. See the Illuminations 

2. visit tokyo disneyland & disneysea, 3. shop at christmas markets, 4. relax at an onsen, 5. do hatsumode: first shrine or temple visit of the year, 6. go ice skating, 7. take advantage of the sales, 8. watch fireworks with an amazing backdrop, 9. warm up with some ramen, 10. visit the asakusa hagoita fair, japan wonder travel tours in tokyo, other articles you might be interested in.

Illuminations are a wonderful part of Japan’s winter culture. Many westerners are accustomed to neighborhoods being lit up during the holidays in their home countries, but Japan takes illuminations to a whole other level! From gardens and tree-lined streets to tall towers and other prominent landmarks, Tokyo illuminations see no limit! There are even entire theme parks, like Yomiuri Land , that partake in the illumination festivities. The city’s magnificent light displays will be hard for you to miss if you plan to venture anywhere in Tokyo during winter.

Christmas in Japan is celebrated quite differently than what is custom in western countries! Rather than focusing on religion or on sharing food and opening gifts with your family, Christmas in Japan is about spending time with your significant other. Christmas is easily one of the biggest holidays in the world, but it’s enjoyed in many different ways, and Disney is one such place to celebrate the season. Head to Tokyo Disney Resort between November 8th and December 25th for a very Christmassy experience!

Get an authentic taste of Germany at one of Tokyo’s Christmas markets ! These bustling events are usually full of stalls selling German delicacies such as sausages, sauerkraut, glühwein (hot wine), pretzels and much more! They’re also a pretty good place to pick up some Christmas gifts, especially the market at the Red Brick Warehouse in Yokohama . This market is probably the most well-known in the Tokyo area, but others, like the ones at Hibiya Park and Yebisu Garden, offer a similar array of fun!

The perfect pairing: chilly weather and a hot bath. Onsen are probably the most relaxing part of Japanese culture, and certainly not a something to be missed in winter. Onsen are basically natural hot springs, which can be found all across Japan. Onsen facilities can be extremely luxurious – traditional ryokan accommodations might even offer sleeping quarters with a private in-room onsen. Some onsen are open-air, boasting incredible views and soothing aesthetic designs. This is the ultimate Japanese way to get warm after a cold day out!

A wholesome, spiritual tradition at the beginning of the year, hatsumode is held at Shinto shrines , and even sometimes Buddhist temples , across the country. The main idea is to show gratitude for the previous year’s good health and successes, and to pray for their continuation in the year to come. You will have no issues finding a place to perform hatsumode as there are many shrines scattered around Tokyo. Some shrines are huge and some extremely popular, but there’s also plenty of quieter, local ones. Whatever your preference is, ring in the new year with a feeling of gratitude and wishes for good fortune in the year to come.

Ice skating can be done at quite a few locations around tokyo! Remember that Christmas market at Red Brick Warehouse in Yokohama? Well, there’s a great ice rink there as well, and it’s super popular and fun! The rinks are usually near some of Tokyo’s great attractions such as SkyTree , Midtown and Meiji Jingu . If you love ice skating, you’ll surely be able to add it to your Tokyo itinerary without having to go out of your way!

Not everyone likes holiday shopping, but for those of you who do, Tokyo is no exception when it comes to seasonal shopping hype! In general, Tokyo is an incredible place to shop, with pretty much everything you could ever imagine, for sale here. Get the perfect gift for your friends, family, or even yourself, with this great list of holiday shopping options ! There are plenty of sales and seasonal bargains up for grabs, so make sure to do your homework so you don’t miss out!

Odaiba is a unique neighborhood constructed on a man-made island in Tokyo Bay, and one great thing about December is that fireworks are set off near Odaiba’s Rainbow Bridge every Saturday. The Rainbow Bridge is an impressive sight in itself, which only gets more epic against a backdrop of fireworks. If you didn’t know already, Japan takes its firework displays very seriously, making every show an amazing experience. The Japanese have a knack for being pretty meticulous, which is emphasized beautifully in these works of art!

Ramen , originally a Chinese delicacy, has developed its own culture here in Japan. In fact, many people now seem to associate ramen with Japan rather than China, and either way, you definitely have to try it during your trip. Ramen is a tasty, filling noodle dish with incredibly flavorful broth and delicious toppings. There are many different varieties, with some of the main ones being shio (salt), shoyu (soy sauce), tonkotsu (porkbone) and miso (fermented soybean paste). Ramen can be found in every Tokyo neighborhood, and there are even some Michelin-starred ramen restaurants if you want to try the best of the best!

Head over to Asakusa from December 17th to December 19th and check out the Hagoita Fair! Hagoita are wooden paddles with handles that were originally made for a game similar to badminton, but at the fair, they are usually elaborately decorated with images of kabuki actors, movie stars and other celebrities. The hagoita are more decorative than functional nowadays, but they are supposed to bring good luck, so the fair is well-visited. If you go, remember that it’s customary to clap your hands along with the merchant when a sale is made.

You will find many people walking around in a beautiful kimono in the Asakusa area. Kimono Rental Wargo offers a one-day kimono experience and a professional staff will have you ready to explore the traditional town with kimono. Check out their Asakusa shop to get a cultural experience in Tokyo!

Kimono Rental is Available at Popular Tourist Attractions in Japan! Discover Japan with a traditional Kimono from Kimono Rental Wargo! Explore cities or join festivals effortlessly starting from just ¥3,300. Our shops are conveniently located in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Kawagoe, and Kanazawa. Elevate your adventures with the elegance of the kimono and create unforgettable memories in Japan!

Japan Wonder Travel is a travel agency that offers guided tours throughout Japan.  From private walking tours to delicious Food and Drink tours, we can help organize the best tours just for you! If you want to explore Japan and learn more about the history and backstories of each area you are traveling in, our knowledgeable and friendly guides will happily take you to the best spots!  In addition, we can provide you with any assistance you may need for your upcoming trip to Japan, so please feel free to contact us if you have any questions or need some help! 

▶ Tokyo Tsukiji Fish Market Food and Drink Tour Explore the most lively and popular fish market in Tokyo, where you will have the chance to try some of the local’s favorite street foods and sake along with your friendly English-speaking guide! 

▶ Tokyo 1–Day Highlights Private Walking Tour (8 Hours) There’s no better way to explore an area than taking a tour with a knowledgeable local guide. You will have the chance to learn about the history and interesting background stories of Tokyo, as well as discover some hidden gems which can be hard to do without a guide.

▶ Shinjuku Bar Hopping Tour: Experience Tokyo’s Nightlife in Izakaya Check out the best spots in Shinjuku while bar hopping through the lively and vibrant area. Try some delicious local food and drink as you explore the narrow yet photogenic alleys that the town has to offer. Experience Japanese izakaya culture and drink in Shinjuku like the locals!

▶ Kimono Experience in Tokyo Step into the charm of the kimono, a beloved icon of Japanese tradition, ideal for festivals and wandering quaint streets. Asakusa offers the perfect setting to don your kimono and create cherished memories with picturesque backdrops. Let Kimono Rental Wargo dress you up for a day of delightful exploration in timeless style!

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• Tokyo In December: Activities And Destinations That’re Worth A Try

What is your first impression of Tokyo in each season? Spring is magnificent with shades of pink, white of cherry blossoms and many other beautiful flowers. Summer is the season for fireworks festivals, and the Obon dance on exciting summer nights. In the autumn, it is easy to see the red of maple leaves on every street, square, on campus and on the dome of temples in Tokyo. So, what about the winter? It seems that the rank of foreign visitors in the winter cannot be compared to that of the other three seasons. It is regrettable that tourists haven’t discovered the uniqueness of Tokyo in December – the first month of winter in Japan. Let’s follow Question Japan to explore those activities and destinations . 

Top sightseeing spots and activities in Tokyo in December

1. see tokyo’s winter illuminations.

Winter illuminations are definitely the top attraction in Tokyo in December . Winter in Tokyo may be cold, and people may want to stay at home and wrap themselves up in the blankets. However, it will be such a pity if you miss the winter illuminations. Strolling downs in the streets or parks or any corners in Tokyo, you are about to be overwhelmed with thousands of lights illuminating locations across the city, in a variety of ways. From champagne-colored bulbs that cover tree-lined streets to creative, modern-styled designs, those beautiful illuminations absolutely warm up your heart in the cold winter day. Moreover, numerous illumination events are going to take place in this December. Look up in the map and find your ways to Tokyo Dome, Tokyo Midtown, Roppongi Hills Arena, etc right now to experience the most brilliant light shows ever.

Roppongi Hills Winter Illumination

2. Explore Christmas markets

Christmas is the main holiday and one of the most important nights of the year in Japan. As a matter of fact, shopping for Christmas is a custom. If you are in Tokyo, come by Christmas market in Roppongi Hills. This is is the Japanese version of the famous Stutgart Christmas Market. There are more than 2,000 Christmas-themed items for everyone from German specialties to snowballs and glitter decorations. In addition, the unique souvenirs such as glasses to contain glühwein wine are also discounted for buyers.

Japanese version of the famous Stutgart Christmas Market

Besides Roppongi Hills, tourists should visit Tokyo Christmas Market. It lasts 10 days in the campus of Hibiya Park. Tokyo Christmas Market will bring you a long line of delicious food and drink stalls, exquisite craft products and a series of eye-catching stage performances. Moreover, the most noticeable point of this year’s market is the 14m high lighting pyramid directly imported from Germany, the beauty of which surely urges you to exclaim in awe.

3. Visit Shrines and Temples for New Year’s Eve

Oshogatsu (the New Year) is one of the most important holidays of the year in Japan, and the first visit to shrines or temples in a new year is known as “hatsumode”. For Japanese people, going to the temple wishing a happy new year within the first three days of the year has great significance. This is also the opportunity for Japanese people to bring old lucky charms to pagodas or temples, and perform an old-charm-burning ceremony to ask for new charms for next year.

The first prayer of the year

With such a sacred meaning, many temples and shrines combine Oshogatsu with Hatsumode. On New Year’s Eve, thousands of people line up at shrines or temples praying for a lucky, happy new year and waiting for January 1 st to take part in Hatsumode. The most popular temples and shrines, such as Tokyo’s Meiji Shrine , attract several million people during the three days. Most impressive are such visits at the actual turn of the year, when large temple bells are rung at midnight.

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4. Go ice skating

Ice skating is one of most wintery and festive activities in this season. Although snow hardly falls in Tokyo in December , this city has several outdoor ice skating rinks in a central area to entertain visitors. One of the most popular and newest skating rinks in the heart of Tokyo is Akasaka Sacas. Akasaka Sacas is Tokyo’s newest mixed-use development such as Roppongi Hills and Tokyo Midtown. The winter event “White Sacas” is held annually, and the main attraction is a large ice skating rink at Sacas Square along with several other attractions such as food vendors, light ups and a small aquarium. Ice skating classes are also available for beginners and kids with an additional charge.

White Sacas

5. Go on a food tour

What do you do when visiting a foreign country? Besides exploring tourist attractions, taking part in festivals, sampling the local cuisine is undoubtedly a must. So, what should visitor try when visiting Tokyo in December?

• Winter in Japan is very cold,  so hot and nutritious dishes are indispensable, especially hotpot. In Japan, people call hotpot “nabemono” ; different types of nabemono use different ingredients. The most commonly used ingredients are chicken, oysters, shellfish, cod, salmon or turtles, among which, chicken is the most favorable.

• In the winter, Japanese families often cook Oden. This dish is quite similar to nabemono but is made by stewing ingredients like white radish, chicken eggs, fish cake, octopus, tofu, konnyaku jelly … and served with sake. This traditional dish differs in flavors, depending on the region and locality.

• Ramen is a treat that can be enjoyed throughout the year, but during the cold months it will definitely warm you up. A delicious bowl of noodles is put in miso broth, soy sauce and salt, topped with various vegetables, meat, tofu or eggs.

• Osechi is a traditional Japanese food that is unique to the New Year. This traditional bento originated in the 8th century, and the food in the box has its own meaning. For example, komaboku means the rising sun in Japan, because the shape and color mean joy. Konbu, a type of seaweed, is associated with the word “yorokobu”, which means joy.  In Japanese, black bean is “kuromame” in which, the word “mame” is a homophone, meaning bean and health.

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6. Unwind with a Hot Bath or Hot Springs near Tokyo

Communal bathing has been long been a part of traditional Japanese culture. Japanese people in the old days often go to the natural hot springs (onsen) or public baths called “sento” to wash up during the times when many people did not have a bath in their own residence. Even in modern-day Japan, visiting onsen and sento continues to be a pastime of the young and old alike, especially during the cold winter months. Whether visiting a small local sento, or taking a trip to a luxurious hot spring spas, enjoying a traditional Japanese bath is an activity we recommend every visitor coming to Tokyo in December experience at least once.

Minakami Onsen – Great Hot Springs Near Tokyo

7. Test Your Luck and Buy a “Fukubukuro”

Similar to “hatsumode” – the first visit to the shrines or temples in a year, “Fukubukuro” means the first purchase of the year. At the start of the New Year, Japanese department stores and other shops offer a mystery grab bag filled with various goods. The collection of the goods inside the bag is typically worth a lot more than the actual price. The only catch is that you might not know exactly what you’re getting–but for many, the fun is in the gamble! Although “fukubukuro” is sold in limited number and in only the first day of the year, many people spend hours queuing patiently in front of the stores, just to test their luck. 

The first shopping spree of the year

Now, are you ready to spend your very last month of the year in Tokyo? After reading our articles, how do you feel about it? We hope this article helps provide useful information you can use for your trip to Tokyo in December, including the events and festivals in December, and some suggestions. We hope you have a great time in Tokyo!

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Day trips from Tokyo in winter: From warm baths to theme parks

November 15, 2023

Hey! It's Akira from Tokyo. While I originally hail from the calm vibes of Nagoya, the past six years have been all about diving deep into Tokyo's vibrant streets. My time as a local guide has led me to some amazing spots most Tokyo tours don't even touch.

Now, get this! Tokyo in winter? It's like a whole new world. I'm putting together this article to let you in on how Tokyo lights up in the chilly months and the cool places you can visit just a short trip away. Picture relaxing in a hot spring when it's cold outside or visiting towns packed with character. Dive in with me, and by the end, I bet you'll be adding Tokyo's winter spots to your must-visit list. I can't wait to share it all with you!

Tokyo's winter wonder

Navigating tokyo's transit network, japanese hot springs, history and nature at nikko national park, winter blooms in hitachi seaside park, snow, monkeys, and more in nagano, mount fuji's view at lake kawaguchiko, thrills and scenic beauty at fuji q highland, ancient traditions and modernity in yokohama, hiking and cable cars in winter, skiing destinations around tokyo, book private experiences in tokyo.

If you think you know Tokyo, wait till you experience it in winter! As the capital city slips into its winter attire, every corner sparkles. The streets have this gentle shimmer from the snow, and the forests around feel like a peaceful escape from the usual hustle. Beyond the must-see tourist attractions, there's a quieter side to Tokyo that's just waiting to be explored. And guess what? Being a local host with City Unscripted has let me in on some of these secrets.

Now, here's a little insider tip: while Tokyo's winter is a sight to behold, the day trips just outside the city are the real cherry on top.

Imagine taking short trips from Tokyo to places where snow-covered landscapes meet age-old traditions. Places like Hakone and Nikko have left me awestruck more times than I can count. We'll get into the nitty-gritty of these spots later, but trust me, adding these to your Japan trip itinerary is like unwrapping an extra gift. If you're keen on venturing a bit further from the city lights, the areas around Tokyo are brimming with experiences that'll make your winter visit unforgettable.

Alright, if you're thinking Tokyo's transport system feels like trying to untangle earphones after they've been in your pocket, let's simplify things together! First things first: the bullet trains? A dream. It's not just a super-quick way to travel; they whisk you to the most fantastic tourist spots.

For those plotting out several day trips from Tokyo, snatch up the JR Rail Pass. Unlimited rides? Yes, please! Dive deep into Tokyo with the Tokyo Metro 24-hour Ticket. Go from the bustling world of Shinjuku Station to... well, anywhere your curiosity takes you!

More of a roadie? Highway buses and bus tours offer a chill, scenic route to the city's edges. Little tip: the Toei buses have a day pass that's great for those "let's see where we end up" kind of days. So, gear up and let Tokyo's transport sweep you off your feet.

Onsen - more than just a warm bath

If you ever visit Tokyo during the winter months, a trip to an onsen town is magical! An onsen isn't just a hot tub; when you step into one of the premier onsen facilities, time seems to slow down. After a day of wandering snowy paths, you get to soak in these natural hot springs at these onsen resorts. The warmth isn't just on the outside; it seeps right into your soul.

Oh, and here's a little secret – I adore the onsens tucked away in lesser-known towns. These onsen facilities offer fewer crowds and so much authenticity! If you're thinking of day trips from Tokyo in winter, jot this down. In just a few hours, you're transported to one of these tranquil havens, such as Takaragawa Onsen. And you know what's the cherry on top? That gentle whisper of Japanese culture all around. Dive into these onsen facilities, and you'll return not just refreshed but with stories that'll last a lifetime.

Takaragawa Onsen in Gunma Prefecture

You know when you stumble upon a place so magical it feels like you've discovered a hidden treasure? That's precisely what Takaragawa Onsen in Gunma Prefecture was for me! Just a hop, skip, and jump away on your Tokyo day trips, and you're transported to this wonderland. Think about luxuriating in spacious outdoor baths with a view of snow-covered trees and the gentle river's hum in the background. The first time I dipped my toes in, I was hooked! It's not just a soak; it's an experience.

And here's a little inside scoop: unlike many other onsens, Takaragawa lets both genders enjoy the same bath. Yep, you heard that right! So, if you're looking for an escape that's a perfect blend of nature, relaxation, and adventure, this hot spring town is it.

Ensuring a respectful onsen experience

You're gearing up for an onsen adventure on one of your Tokyo day trips! Let me share some insider tips to ensure you have the best experience. Before diving into those heavenly waters, give yourself a quick rinse; consider it a prelude to the main event. And hey, if you've got tattoos – no biggie! Some onsen places might be a tad traditional, but plenty welcome inked visitors like rock stars. Keep the chatter to a low hum; it's all about soaking in that peace.

And, while the thought of diving straight from a snowy adventure to the hot spring sounds tempting, ensure you're dry before stepping inside. Trust me, in less than an hour, you'll emerge feeling like you've had a week-long vacation. Just keep these nuggets of wisdom in your pocket, and you'll have a fabulous onsen day trip!

If you're contemplating day trips from Tokyo, let me share a little secret: Nikko is the top choice among day trips from Tokyo! The moment you step off at Nikko station, there's this palpable sense of being transported back to the vibrant Edo period. You're in for a history treat between the stunning old buildings and the tales they tell. It's not all about the bygone eras; nature plays its part, too. Especially when off-season snow blankets the town, making those ancient structures look even more enchanting.

For anyone looking at day trips from Tokyo, I'd highly recommend grabbing a guided tour in Nikko. The tidbits and tales you'll hear? Absolutely priceless! Nikko's got you covered for a spellbinding mix of nature and history.

Navigating Shinjuku to Utsunomiya station

A step-by-step guide for a smooth journey:

-  Begin at Tokyo's iconic Shinjuku Station. As one of the world's busiest train stations, it can be overwhelming, but it's also efficiently laid out. Look for signs leading to the Shinkansen (bullet train) lines. If unsure, station staff are more than willing to assist!

-  Once you board the Shinkansen, get ready for a seamless ride that encapsulates Japan's efficiency. The train interiors are comfortable and spacious, and the large windows offer a panoramic view of the evolving landscape. Do grab a bento box from the station's food stalls for an authentic Japanese meal on the go.

-  In roughly two hours, you'll arrive at Utsunomiya Station. Here, pay close attention to transfer details. The local train to Nikko typically departs from a different platform. Using apps like Hyperdia or consulting the station map can simplify your transfer.

-  Board the local train to Nikko. This ride provides a contrasting experience to the Shinkansen. The slower pace means more time to appreciate the picturesque views, especially when traveling during the snowy months. The sight of temples and shrines blanketed in white snow can be a prelude to what awaits in Nikko.

Shinkyo Bridge and its surroundings

Are you planning a day trip from Tokyo? Shinkyo Bridge in Nikko is a top pick! Not just a pretty sight, this historic bridge has stories dating back centuries. Listed as a World Heritage site, it's considered one of Japan's finest bridges.

When you're there, notice the intricate design details and the vibrant red color – it stands out, mainly when snow graces its surroundings. Close by, you'll find ancient temples and shrines, making the whole surrounding area a blend of beauty and history. This is your spot if you want a blend of sightseeing and learning.

Hitachi Seaside Park is one of those gems you'll be glad you visited. It's a burst of colors, especially when the flowers bloom. I've spent hours there just wandering and taking in the beauty.

Plus, they have cycling routes, which I love. If you're considering a day trip from Tokyo, this park is at the top of my list. Wear your most comfortable shoes and bring your camera; every moment is photo-worthy.

When to witness the park's magic

So, planning a day trip from Tokyo? You've got to consider Hitachi Seaside Park. But let me spill some local insight: timing is everything. Winter? Imagine a serene, snowy paradise with hints of green peeping through.

But, oh, spring! The cherry blossoms dance in the wind, creating a dreamy scene. Pack a picnic, bring your favorite book, or, better yet, just immerse yourself in the vibrant hues. Every visit feels like a brand-new adventure. Go on, let the park work its magic on you!

You know, every time I step into Nagano Prefecture during winter, I'm reminded of why I love it so much! The city gets wrapped up in this awesome blanket of white snow, making everything look so peaceful. But what gets me every time is the snow monkeys at Jigokudani Park. Picture this: monkeys chilling in hot springs while snow gently settles on them. It's a must-see on your next trip! And between us, don't just stop at the snow scenes. Nagano hides these calm temples and shrines that look even cooler with a snowy backdrop — thinking of embarking on a weekend trip or day trip from Tokyo? Nagano should be on your list.

Memorable moments at Jigokudani Monkey Park

Oh, get ready for a delightful time at Jigokudani Monkey Park! If there's a perfect snapshot of winter, it's watching those adorable snow monkeys chilling in the hot springs. The colder months, especially December to March, are the prime time to visit. How about an early morning adventure? Fewer crowds, stunning light for your photos, and the most active monkey antics!

Just a heads-up: sport some sturdy shoes for that snowy path to the park. It's a bit of a walk, but the playful scenes you're about to witness are totally worth every step.

Oh, and there's a teeny entrance fee, but it's like buying a ticket to a natural monkey theatre. If you're taking a highway bus tour from Tokyo for the day, carve out a big slice of your schedule for this spot.

Authentic dishes and souvenirs to seek

Every time I zip over to Nagano from Tokyo, there's this irresistible energy of delightful flavors waiting for me! Top of my joy list? Nagano's heartwarming "soba" noodles. Just imagine savoring those buckwheat strands, cold with a tangy dipping sauce or nestled in a cozy soup. And oh, the "oyaki" dumplings are pure happiness in a bite! These pan-fried dumplings come with different fillings, such as vegetables with miso or sweet azuki beans.

And after all that yummy indulgence? It's time for a little treasure hunt in local boutiques! From charming wooden combs to unique kitchen tools, Nagano's artisan touch shines bright.

There's something genuinely magical about Lake Kawaguchiko! As you stand there, gazing at the iconic Mount Fuji with its majestic peak reflected on the lake's calm surface, it feels like a dream. Every time I visit, I'm filled with this bubbly excitement. If you're into a bit of adventure, the surrounding forests and hiking trails are simply exhilarating, showcasing brilliant views of Mt. Fuji and the lake from diverse angles. Among the Fuji Five Lakes, Kawaguchiko has always been my favorite. And if you're looking for that perfect shot, head to the northern shores; the vista is captivating. When planning day trips from Tokyo, this gorgeous gem is an essential stop on your itinerary!

Essential viewing points and highlights

Alright, get ready for this! Lake Kawaguchiko is like the ultimate backstage pass to the most mesmerizing Mount Fuji views. Whenever I'm there, Oishi Park just pulls me in – imagine seeing Mount Fuji peeking through a colorful array of seasonal flowers.

And for my fellow hiking enthusiasts? The Lake Kawaguchi Mt. Tenjō Ropeway is your ticket to the sky! Once you reach the top, it's like you've stepped into a postcard – Lake Kawaguchiko shimmering below, and the ever-so-stunning Mt. Fuji right there, almost close enough to touch.

And oh, if you time it during winter, the snowy blanket on the mountain is breathtaking. But a little insider tip: while Kawaguchiko is the star, it's just one of the Fuji Five Lakes. Dive into the adventure, explore the surrounding area, and enjoy every mesmerizing moment.

Oh, let me tell you about Fuji Q Highland! It's a total thrill-fest with a side of jaw-dropping views. This isn't just your run-of-the-mill amusement park, oh no! Just a hop away on a day trip from Tokyo, and you're in for the time of your life. Imagine soaring high on a roller coaster, and just as your heart skips a beat, there's Mt. Fuji waving right back at you. And the fun doesn't stop there. The amusement park featuring everything from spin-you-round rides to those that touch the clouds ensures there's never a dull moment. I always tell my friends – if you want your adrenaline served with a slice of scenic beauty, there's no better place.

Unmissable rides and attractions

If you're setting foot in Fuji Q Highland, you're in for an exhilarating day! Navigating this vast theme park can be a tad overwhelming, so let me give you a rundown of my top picks. First off, the roller coasters - and trust me, they're not just any roller coasters.

The "Eejanaika" is a mind-boggling fourth-dimensional roller coaster that I always rave about; the flips and twists are beyond imagination. And "Takabisha" has this drop that always, always gets my heart racing – it's one of the steepest in the world! For a more panoramic experience, "Fujiyama" offers sweeping views of Mt. Fuji at its peak, making it both serene and thrilling. It's not all about heart-stopping action.

The theme park is also dotted with charming attractions that capture the essence of Japan, and I cannot stress enough how much I love the traditional haunted house – it's both spooky and delightful. So, grab a map, lace up your most comfortable shoes, and set out to explore! The day will zip by faster than you think!

Tips for an efficient park experience

For a seamless day at Fuji-Q Highland, I always recommend getting there early, especially if you're squeezing it into your Tokyo one-day trips . Trust me, beating the crowd makes a difference! Now, if you're wondering how to maximize your time, the Fast Pass is a game-changer. It drastically reduces your wait time, letting you enjoy more rides.

While you're navigating the park, keep an eye out for those spontaneous glimpses of Mt. Fuji. They're genuinely worth pausing for. When hunger strikes, there's an abundance of local flavors to indulge in. And I can't emphasize this enough: wear comfortable shoes. You'll be on your feet a lot!

If you've ever wanted a city where history and innovation meet, Yokohama's your destination! When I take day trips from Tokyo, the first thing on my list is the enchanting Sankeien Garden. It's like stepping back in time, with its centuries-old buildings and seasonal blooms.

Now, for a taste of the city's modern vibrancy, you must swing by Yokohama station. The place is a maze of delightful shops, restaurants, and trendy spots - I particularly love the local boutiques!

But if you want to grasp Yokohama's blend, head to Osanbashi Pier. You get serene ocean views framed by the city's dynamic skyline. Every time I'm there, it reminds me how beautifully Yokohama has evolved while cherishing its roots.

Preparations for winter terrains

Alright, here's the scoop: if you're game for some winter hiking around Tokyo, you're in for a treat! First up, let's chat about shoes. Trust me, investing in a good pair of waterproof hiking boots is a game-changer. I mean, who likes soggy feet? Not me! And speaking of feet, don't skimp on thermal socks; they're little hugs for your toes. Now, when it comes to dressing up, think of layers. Start cozy, then pile on until you're feeling snug as a bug. Before you dash off, do a quick weather check – safety first! And hey, if you fancy seeing snowy forests from a bird's eye view, hop onto a cable car. It's sheer magic from up there.

Recommendations for every enthusiast

Whenever friends ask about hiking spots near Tokyo, my first shoutout always goes to the Okutama Mukashi Michi trail. Walking there feels like you're strolling through nature's very own gallery, with each turn revealing a new masterpiece.

And for a quick escape that's just a stone's throw from the city, Mt. Mitake is a gem. Its winter views are simply breathtaking, and it offers a captivating blend of history and natural beauty. If you're looking to embrace the frosty outdoors, pull on those warm boots and immerse yourself in these trails.

Cable car routes and ticket tips

I've got to share this with you! If you're in the mood for some aerial magic around Tokyo, you can't miss out on the cable car rides. The Hakone Ropeway? Absolute gem! On a lucky day, you'll catch Mt. Fuji looking all majestic, with Lake Ashi shimmering below. Every time I'm there, I'm reminded of why I adore the tranquility away from the city buzz.

Now, if you plan on exploring a bit more of Hakone, snag a "Free Pass." It's a nifty deal, and you get more bang for your buck. Oh, and speaking of unique experiences, the Takao Cable Car is on another level—it's Japan's steepest! It's an easy round trip from Tokyo, and the snowy landscapes in winter are pure joy. Just a heads-up: these spots can get packed, so starting early can be a game-changer. I promise, by the end of the ride, you'll be as smitten as I am with these scenic ventures!

Skiing near Tokyo? Absolutely possible and incredibly fun! One of my all-time favorite things during winter is catching the first snowflakes and knowing the slopes are ready for action. Gala Yuzawa Snow Resort is just a hop, skip, and a Shinkansen (bullet train) ride away from Tokyo - super convenient and loads of fun.

And, oh, how could I forget about Karuizawa Princehotel Snow Resort? It's not just about skiing there; it's about the cozy vibes, gorgeous snow-covered sights, and the lovely people you bump into. So, if you're in Tokyo in winter, make a day trip to these ski spots. Trust me, the memories and excitement will stay with you long after the snow melts!

Where and how to get skiing gear

Ready to hit the slopes but missing the gear? No worries at all! Tokyo's got your back with some amazing places to rent ski essentials. One spot I often find myself at is the Kanda Ogawamachi district. It's a treasure trove for ski and snowboard rentals, plus you get quality without breaking the bank.

Another favorite of mine is SPOTAKA in Shinjuku; they have a fabulous range, and the staff is so helpful! If you're venturing out for a day trip from Tokyo to one of the nearby ski resorts, remember that most ski resorts will also offer on-site rentals, which can be super handy.

A quick tip: Always try on boots and make sure they're comfy. There's nothing worse than sore feet when you're trying to enjoy snowy adventures.

After a full day of winter trips around Tokyo, I wanted to share a bit about getting back into the city via Shinjuku Station. It's lively, with both locals and tourists coming and going. If you've picked up any souvenirs, Tokyo has got you covered! There are coin lockers and luggage storage spots all over the city center, which are super handy for keeping things safe. It's really nice to wind down the day in a quiet café or a local inn, thinking about the places you visited. Tokyo's surroundings offer so much in winter, from relaxing baths to snowy landscapes. I hope you get to enjoy all of it! Safe travels!

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19 Awesome Day Trips From Tokyo

I know that Tokyo is a very exciting place, especially for first-time visitors, but I cannot emphasize it often enough: It’s important to get out and see other parts of Japan as well. If you cannot afford going all the way to Kyoto, Hiroshima or Fukuoka, then at least plan a few day trips from Tokyo. I’m sure you won’t regret it. In fact, there are million of options, so it might be hard to choose. Here are my recommendations for day trips from Tokyo.

Day Trips from Tokyo to Kanagawa Prefecture:

Kanagawa Prefecture is right next to Tokyo, so it’s easy, cheap and fast to visit. As there are a lot of things to see, Kanagawa is certainly one of the best options for a day trip or even a weekend trip. I want to introduce a few places that are especially worth visiting.

Hakone (箱根) is part of the volcanically active Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park centered around Lake Ashino. It’s an internationally famous holiday resort offering hot springs, natural beauty and great views of Mt. Fuji. As it’s less than 100 km from Tokyo, it makes a great day trip.

A big red gate stands at the entrance of Hakone Shrine which is located right next to Lake Ashino.

You can take a cable car to explore Owakudani , a volcanic hot spot full of sulphurous springs. There you can enjoy black eggs (黒玉子, kuro tamago) which are unique to Hakone. The shell turns black due to a chemical reaction with the sulphurous water. Despite their look, they actually taste delicious and are said to prolong your life, so definitely try them!

You should take a pirate ship tour on Lake Ashino. On a clear day you can even see Mt. Fuji.

If you’re interested in visiting Hakone, check out this website with lots of useful information in English.

2. Kamakura:

Kamakura (鎌倉) is less than an hour away from Tokyo. It’s also known as the Kyoto of Eastern Japan , offering numerous temples, shrines and other historical structures such as Hasedera Temple , Engakuji Temple and Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine .

The most famous attraction of Kamakura is the Great Buddha of Kotokuin .

If you’re planning a day trip to Kamakura, check out this website .

3. Enoshima:

Just like Kamakura, Enoshima (江の島) is located in the Shonan area. It’s a small island, connected to the mainland by the 600-m-long Enoshima Bridge.

In summer you can go swimming or surfing at the beach. On a clear day, you’ll be able to see Mt. Fuji .

There are several interesting sights such as temples, shrines, a cave and even an aquarium. Most popular is probably the Enoshima Shrine complex dedicated to Benzaiten , goddess of good fortune, wealth, music and poetry. She’s said to be the creator of Enoshima.

If you’ve decided to go there, make sure to have a look at the “ Enoshima-Kamakura Freepass ” and the “ Enoshima 1-Day Passport “. You might be able to save some money.

4. Odawara:

Odawara City (小田原市) is the entrance to the Fuji Hakone Izu National Park . You could stop by for a short 1h-visit on your way to Hakone.

If you’re into Japanese castles, then you’ll love Odawara Castle . Its size is quite impressive and the museum on several floors inside the castle tower offers a lot of interesting artefacts.

5. Yokohama:

Yokohama (横浜) is probably one of the most popular day trips from Tokyo. There are so many things to do and see there, it won’t get boring.

Minato Mirai (left photo) and China Town (right photo) are well-known attractions. Apart from that you can also check out the Cup Noodle Museum, Ramen Museum , Kirin Beer Museum as well as a former residential area of foreign merchants.

If you like Japanese gardens, enjoy a few hours at the beautiful Sankeien Garden , especially worth checking out in autumn and spring.

For more information, read the Yokohama Visitors’ Guide .

6. Kawasaki:

If it’s not your first trip to Japan, you might have already seen the most popular tourist spots close to Tokyo. Then, I suggest going to Kawasaki which is only a short train ride away from central Tokyo.

The Kawasaki Daishi Temple is quite impressive. The shopping street leading to the temple offers so many delicious snacks and you can get all the souvenirs you’ve ever dreamed of. Especially for Maneki Neko and Daruma lovers it’s a tiny paradise.

There’s also a lovely Chinese garden nearby.

If you happen to be there in early April, you might want to experience one of the craziest Japanese festivals . The Kanamara Matsuri also known as “ Phallus Festival ” is held in Kawasaki every year.

Day Trips from Tokyo to Tochigi Prefecture:

Tochigi Prefecture is located in the Kanto region just like Tokyo. It’s contiguous with Ibaraki, Gunma, Saitama, and Fukushima Prefectures. Not a very well-known prefecture for travelling, apart from one spot:

Nikko (日光) is a small town that marks the entrance to Nikko National Park .

Nikko is mostly famous for Toshogu Shrine , the mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu , which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The shrine buildings are extremely fascinating and the various carvings with all their details could keep you busy all day long. The three monkeys are one of the most popular carvings there.

When you are in Nikko, make sure to also visit the beautiful Lake Chuzenji (中禅寺湖, right photo) – which offers a lovely scenery, especially in autumn (mid to late October).

And don’t miss the Kegon Fall (華厳の滝, kegon no taki) which is not only very close to the other two sights, but is also one of Japan’s Most Beautiful Waterfalls .

There’s so much more to see in the Nikko National Park, so if you want to visit, check out this website for more information.

Day Trips from Tokyo to Saitama Prefecture:

Saitama Prefecture is bordered by Tokyo and parts of it can actually be seen as a suburb of Tokyo. In short, it’s really close and thus ideal for a day trip.

8. Kawagoe:

Kawagoe (川越) is probably the most famous sightseeing spot in Saitama. It’s a former castle town and you can still visit one last remaining building of Kawagoe Castle, called “ Honmaru Goten “.

A very well-known attraction is the Warehouse District with its clay-walled buildings that create an Edo period (1603-1867) atmosphere.

Well worth checking out is also “ Kitain Temple ” (喜多院). You’ll find the only remaining buildings of the original Edo Castle there. Make sure to visit the “Gohyaku Rakan” statues as well. These are more than 500 stone statues of the disciples of Buddha and each of them has its own facial expression. Find the one that looks like you. Very amusing!

For more information about sightseeing in Kawagoe click here .

9. Chichibu:

Another major attraction of Saitama Prefecture is Chichibu City ( 秩父市 ).

In spring (late April – late May) you can enjoy beautiful shibazakura (pink moss) in Hitsujiyama Park .

Chichibu Shrine is also well worth checking out. In early December a lot of people attend the yearly night festival at the shrine.

While those two attractions are certainly a highlight when visiting Chichibu, there’s a lot more to explore .

Day Trips from Tokyo to Shizuoka Prefecture:

Shizuoka Prefecture is probably quite well-known – even among foreign visitors to Japan – because of its beautiful sights of Mt. Fuji.

10. Izu Peninsula – Atami:

Atami City (熱海市), a coastal hot spring resort , is located at the entrance to the Izu Peninsula. Even if you’re short on time you can at least visit Atami. It even has a Shinkansen station, so if you have the Japan Rail Pass , it’s a cheap 40-mins trip.

You can just soak in one of the many onsen, enjoy the beautiful views of the ocean, visit one of the several museums or …

… check out Atami Castle . From up there you’ll also get a breathtaking view.

If you want to do more than just a day trip, I highly recommend exploring the rest of the Izu Peninsula as well.

11. Mt. Fuji:

Who doesn’t love Mt. Fuji ? I surely do. And Shizuoka is one of the best places to get some great views of this beautiful volcano. Now that since it has become a UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s even more popular.

There are tons of places within Shizuoka Prefecture from where you can see Mt. Fuji. I recommend Fuji City and Shimizu , especially Miho no Matsubara beach (right photo). In summer (July – August) you can also climb Mt. Fuji – although you’d need more than a day trip to accomplish it.

For more interesting sights in Shizuoka, check out my previous blog posts .

Day Trips from Tokyo to Chiba Prefecture:

Chiba Prefecture is right next to Tokyo and many people forget that some sights are actually in Chiba and not in Tokyo (such as Tokyo Disneyland).

12. Chiba Castle:

If you’re short on time, but interested in Japanese castles, then visiting Chiba Castle is a good option. It takes less than an hour to get there.

And it’s a famous hanami spot in spring, so that’s probably the best time to visit.

13. Boso Peninsula – Tateyama:

My personal highlight in Chiba is the Boso Peninsula which offers various extraordinary sights.

Worth visiting is Tateyama City (館山市) which has a nice castle and several interesting shrines and temples, always with the beautiful ocean in the background.

Apparently it’s also great for windsurfing because I saw a lot of people doing it when I went there.

14. Boso Peninsula – Nokogiriyama:

Don’t miss Mt. Nokogiriyama (鋸山) when you come to the Boso Peninsula.

Nicknamed “Sawtooth Mountain” because of its current shape it offers not only a great view, but also is home to Nihonji Temple with one of the biggest Buddha Statues in Japan.

I highly recommend this as a day trip from Tokyo.

There’s a lot more to see , so make sure to check it out.

Day Trips from Tokyo to Yamanashi Prefecture:

Yamanashi Prefecture is actually the other prefecture besides Shizuoka that Mt. Fuji can call home. Yes, that mountain is so big it’s located in two Japanese prefectures.

15. Kawaguchiko:

If you want to get some breathtaking landscape photos with Mt. Fuji in the background, then the Fujigoko (5 Fuji Lakes) are your best bet. The one that’s easily accessible by public transportation (there’s even a direct highway bus from Shinjuku) is Lake Kawaguchi.

Lake Kawaguchi offers quite a few fun things to do, so you could easily spend a few days there, but the main focus is Mt. Fuji, of course.

The famous red Chureito Pagoda can be found in nearby Fujiyoshida City (just 10 mins by train from Kawaguchiko).

If you happen to be in Japan in spring (late April to late May), then visiting the “ Shibazakura Festival ” is a MUST! With Mt. Fuji in the background this is by far the most beautiful pink moss field I’ve ever seen in Japan.

For more lovely places to check out, go and read the Yamanashi Sightseeing Spots website.

Day Trips from Tokyo to Gunma Prefecture:

Gunma Prefecture is a bit farther away from Tokyo, but a day trip is still possible. For holders of the Japan Rail Pass it’s totally worth it as the Shinkansen takes less than an hour.

16. Kusatsu Onsen:

Kusatsu is one of Japan’s best hot spring resorts and one of my personal favorites. Going there on a day trip would actually be a shame as you would want to spend more time there. If you take a direct bus from Tokyo, it’ll take about 4 h one-way, so you wouldn’t have that much time. Using a rental car would be more beneficial.

At Kusatsu Onsen (草津温泉) you can watch a so-called Yumomi (湯もみ) performance. It’s a traditional method of cooling down the hot water so that people can comfortably take a bath afterwards. Women are stirring the water with a large wooden paddle while singing local folk songs.

The region is a paradise for hot spring lovers all year round. There are so many things to discover, so I recommend taking your time while you’re there.

Another highlight when visiting Kusatsu is the nearby crater lake of Mt. Shirane .

17. Takasaki:

Takasaki City (高崎市) is only a 50-mins bullet train ride from Tokyo. It’s famous for daruma as it’s the leading producer of the “lucky charm” dolls in Japan.

The Byakue Dai-Kannon statue and the Shorinzan Daruma Temple are the major tourist attractions in Takasaki.

18. Lockheart Castle:

Ok, I admit that this is not a typical day trip destination from Tokyo. And I swear I’m not adding it because it’s a castle. *g* Lockheart Castle was originally built by the Lockhart Family in 1829 in Carluke, Scotland . Then, Japanese actor Masahiko Tsugawa bought it. The castle was taken apart and shipped to Japan where it was put together again. Now you can find a lot of galleries and museums there (even a Santa Museum). It’s also a popular place for weddings.

This is just a little extra I thought I’d throw in for all the fans of Japanese dramas and movies , because some of you might have seen it there. It has been used as shooting location for dramas such as “ Atashinchi no Danshi ” or “ Kaibutsu-kun “. Lockheart Castle is about a 2h drive from Tokyo, but you can also access it by public transportation. Take a train to JR Numata Station and from there a bus (~ 20 mins) or taxi.

The Tourist Guide of Gunma Prefecture shows you even more places you could explore.

19. Your Favorite Day Trips from Tokyo?

There certainly are other places to check out, but let’s face it, for Fukushima, Sendai, Nagano or Nagoya you’d want more time than just a mere day trip. And you’d probably want the Japan Rail Pass to save money.

I could recommend a lot more such as Mt. Takao , for example. But I think it’s a lot more fun to hear what you’d recommend.

What are your suggestions? What makes a great day trip from Tokyo?

Read next: 50 Day Trips from Kyoto

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Shizuoka Sengen Shrine

74 comments.

Once again, wonderfully laid out article, with gorgeous pictures and great information. Just lovely to see all of this organized by prefecture and highlighted with the major items at each location, including links to more specific details; it just makes this so usable and convenient. My OCD kicked in just a tiny bit and I really wanted there to be twenty locations, so I’m hoping someone can suggest at least one more great place to add to this list before you make the brochures (to be sent to the publisher?), since this is such a fantastic idea. You should include one of these brochures with every round trip ticket sold to Japan(Tokyo)!!! :luvit:

Hehe, nice suggestion Bud. ^__^ Actually it wouldn’t be too difficult to add some more, but let’s say what others suggest. :D

Looks like I’ll have to adjust my schedule for this autumn. Have you ever been to the Ushiku Daibutsu in Ibaraki Prefecture?

I know about it, it’s on my list, but I haven’t been there YET. ^___^ How about you?

+1 Takaosan. Went in winter. Great snow views. Heard they have a beer tent at the top in summer. Will be going there again in August to find out. Also Mito (Ibaraki) is a good day trip from Tokyo.

Thanks for the suggestions. ^_^ I went to Mito a few summers ago. I got to see a lovely firework at night, an even better summer festival parade the next day. I was a little bit disappointed by the garden there, though. Maybe it was just not the right season to go. ;)

I have been to Mt Takeo and it is so beautiful. Near the bottom of the funicular railway there is a restaurant calle Ukai Toriyama…it is just absolutely amazing. Lots of tea houses set in the most magnificent gardens. You can eat there or you can just wander around to see the gardens. I would definitely recommend it as a “must see” spot. It is in walking distance of the train station or they also have a bus going backwards and forwards I think. At least there was a bus when I was there.

I guess I really have to visit Mt. Takao next time I’m in Tokyo. *g* Thanks a lot for the recommendation and useful extra information. ^______^

Really nice article! There are a lot of spots I haven’t been to yet. Wanna see them! Especially Kusatsu Onsen (I’ve seen it on a report of a delegation of the German Romantic Road, who travelled along the Japanese Romantic Road) and Nokogiriyama (what a funny name!).

I went to Mt. Takao once during autumn to see the wondeful colours of the leaves. But it was sooo crowded! One can see one picture of them here.. http://wp.me/p2oCme-7Q I would recommend to visit it during the week, when nobody has holiday and at no peak… Liked Mount Takigo in Yamanashi Prefecture more, but that is a real hike with no cablecar and no restaurants.. http://wp.me/p2oCme-q4 And Mount Haruna with Ikaho Onsen in Gunma Prefecture! http://wp.me/p2oCme-4F

You really should visit Kusatsu Onsen on a weekend trip. I’m sure you’ll love it. ^___^

Despite the people you were able to take some lovely photos. No wonder it’s so popular. Thanks for sharing and adding some more suggestions. :D

I was told that Mount Asama is a really nice place to see. The volcano is still active sometimes: it was forbidden to climb it a few years ago because of toxic fumes. Now it is open again. I guess it is better to have a car to go there, or take a taxi at Karuizawa station. I’m set to climb it next time I visit Nagano prefecture; a 1 hour climb approximately. Apparently, the view of the Japanese Alps is spectacular.

Thanks a lot for the suggestion. I’m sure that’s a great experience, but I bet it’s better if you have more than a day. It’s still an active volcano after all, so there’s always this thrilling feeling, too. :D

On the north face of Mount Asama is the Devil’s park 鬼押し出し公園 which is my absolute most favorite natural place in Japan. Stunning, almost moonscape.

Excellent article!

I’m surprised Mito is not listed as it’s the city where is located one of the best thre gardens in Japan, Kairaku-en. Maybe you’re not high on japanese gardens, I wonder if it’s worth to go there, especially considering I’d go in plum blossom period and I heard it’s very cool there.

Rob, to be honest I didn’t like the garden in Mito that much. To be fair, I went there in summer, so it wasn’t that overwhelming and I had already visited all the other top-ranked gardens in Japan. I had a nice time in Mito, especially as I arrived just for the great summer festival parade and firework, but it didn’t convince me as much as some other things in my list.

But thanks for mentioning it. This is all about interests and people’s tastes anyway, and just because I didn’t like it that much doesn’t mean others wouldn’t. :)

I live in Mito and would say to definitely visit it during peak plum blossom season or peak hanami. The flowers and festivals transform it from humdrum to heavenly! Also, if you’re a natto lover, Mito is for you!

Thanks for the advice! I really enjoyed the summer festival and the fireworks in Mito in August. :)

A very nice article, Jasmine.

This page looks like my photo album! I have almost the exact same shots.

I’ve been to most of these spots, and you did a fine job of combining them into a single resource. This would be good for anyone coming to Japan who wants to know “What’s there to do?”

Glad you – as a person who actually lives in that region – agrees and appreciates this list. :D

I don’t get to go to Tokyo that often, but as I’ve seen pretty much everything there already, I tend to do day trips when I’m “down there”. Can’t wait to explore some of the suggestions that were made in the comments. ^____^

If you want to add anything to the list, let me know! ;)

Guten Abend Jasmine! Another great blog post. So I have finally decided to go for the April one year Japanese language course. I decided on Kyoto as i wanted both traditional and the modern Japan experience. Although I am a little worried that I might miss out on the super cool moments I might experience in Tokyo or Osaka. I had even considered Fukuoka but since it’s quite far from Kyoto and Tokyo I am scared I might not have the budget to travel much. Can you recommend the best place i should take my course at? Keeping in mind the student friendly expenses, the traditional culture as well as the pop culture? P.S- I’m a big anime fan. :S Will be grateful. Thank you :D

There’s nothing to worry about. Kyoto has a lot to offer and Osaka is just around the corner. In my eyes, Kansai is one of the best spots to travel to various nearby sights on a budget. Just have a look at some places in Kansai that I’ve already introduced. I’m sure you’ll find a few spots you’d love to visit. And if you get the Seishun 18 ticket , you can save a lot of money.

No doubt every place in Japan has a lot to offer. Kyoto has always topped my list. somehow i love the serenity aspect that it offers compared to the more commercial towns. Thanks again Jasmine :happy:

And recently I started watching Atashinchi no Danshi. It’s great to know that Lockheart castle is a real one and not just a set. Japan is so beautiful :kyah:

Tanya, I was just in the mood to try a new drama and will start watching Atashinchi no Danshi, seems like it has good ratings and has some familiar faces in the cast too. Thanks for mentioning it, its really better to get a recommendation than to randomly search for new one! :thumbup: :D

I’m not familiar with the newest dramas as I haven’t had the time to watch any in the past 2 years or so, but I used to watch A LOT.

Atashinchi no Danshi is quite nice, but not one of my favorite. If you want some recommendations, here you go (though that’s solely based on my opinion):

Dr. Koto Shinryojo (I’m biased ever since I visited Yonaguni where the drama was shot) , Hana Yori Dango, Hanakimi, Nakanai to kimeta hi, Hotaru no Hikari, Nankyoku Tairiku (if you don’t know this already, based on what you always tell me I’m sure you’ll love this one) , Soredemo ikiteyuku (mentally pretty heavy stuff) , Rich Man Poor Woman, GTO, Densha Otoko, Nodame Cantabile (watch this!!!) , Liar Game, Galileo, Love Revolution, Yasha, Good Luck, Last Friends, Maou, Love Shuffle, Voice, Tokyo Friends, Mr. Brain, Majo Saiban, Orthros no Inu, Buzzer Beat, Bloody Monday, Tokyo Dogs

This is just a small selection of what I can remember, but I hope you’ll find a few you like and consider watching. ;)

OMG Jasmine, thanks so much! I am now gonna be so busy for the next few months. I immediately saw “Nodame Cantabile”, it’s my favorite series of any TV drama/or Anime anywhere. I keep the last part of the Drama and Anime in “my video” section and play it about once every week. I’ve watched both the anime and drama series completely from start to finish so many times, I’ve lost count. I show it to anyone that visits me and it always makes me feel good.

I have never before had a TV series (American or otherwise) that I could watch over and over and over again and never get tired of it… that is until I found Nodame. Most of these series you referenced are new to me or I’ve only seen the Anime and not the Live action yet. I’m not certain they’ll be on the subs websites I go to, but I’m going to have a great time watching these if they’re available, so thanks so much. Its very strange how I started on anime when my son was young and I got hooked on that and then went to manga and now subbed Asian shows (with anime and manga still). Its really time consuming to try and keep up with all of them (Korean, Hong Kong, Chinese, Filipino and Japanese)… whew, glad I’m retired LOL! :fan: :kyah: :luvit: :thumbup: :peace:

@Jasmine Thank you so much for the list. I will definitely make time to watch them. I’m sure you must be quite busy with work to keep up with these dramas. Nevertheless thanks a ton for all the useful information everytime! :fan: @BudMartin Ooh and Nodame Cantabile is amazing!! It’s the first drama which has done complete justice to the manga and anime! :luvit:

Yes I just finished it. Must say the story is quite unusual so manages to keep you glued till the end. :luvit: Since you love Japanese Dramas, you should try Last Cinderella. :kyah: I personally loved it! A must watch I say! :ehehe:

I saw “Last Cinderella” recently and it was really really funny at times (I laughed so hard that my neighbors heard me). Unfortunately the ending wasn’t what I personally wanted, but they did keep me guessing and interested in it. I still recommend it highly and ALSO recommend you drink while watching it, you’ll appreciate the humor even more!!

A great list and selection of places Jasmine. It just goes to show you that there is a lot more to the Kanto region that Tokyo itself. Anyone on a short trip to Japan (1 week) should probably focus on the Golden Route of Tokyo-Kyoto-Nara-Osaka-Hiroshima. If you are going to spend more time in Japan, definitely think about some of these places as day trips or weekends away from Tokyo.

Absolutely agreed. :D

Nagano City can definitely be done as a daytrip from Tokyo :) The Shinkansen ride makes it an easy destination. Also, the Railway museum in Saitama makes for a great half day trip. Apart from that, I don’t have many more ideas, you put a lot of stuff!

Mount Takao is definitely worth it :)

I would prefer to go to Nagano for more than a day trip, though, especially if one wants to visit the “snow monkeys”. And then there’s also Matsumoto Castle! (*_*)b But you are absolutely right, of course. It’s possible and if one has the Japan Railpass, then it’s also affordable to go there.

Thanks for the recommendation of the Railway Museum in Saitama. I haven’t been to that one yet. :)

There is one more I just remembered.. Has anybody already mentioned the Bosai museum and Bonsai village in Omiya – Saitama?

I don’t think it has been mentioned already. This is the first time I hear about it. Thanks a lot for the suggestion. ^___^

Nagano Snow Monkey or Matsumoto are good day trips as well

Though I wouldn’t recommend it as a day trip. In my opinion one should spend at least 2 days there. But if you’re short on time, it’s possible, of course. ^__^

Oh :) Just loved this list: we’re planing a trip to Japan in march/April and I found a lot of inspirational place :) thanks

You’re very welcome. ^__^ Enjoy your trip!

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Home » Asia » 10 AMAZING Day Trips to Take from Tokyo | 2024 Guide

10 AMAZING Day Trips to Take from Tokyo | 2024 Guide

Imagine this; You wake up in your Tokyo hotel room to a chorus of cars honking during the morning commute, towering skyscrapers, with just a hint of smog in the air. You decide to grab your daypack and make your way to the subway station. After a brief one-hour train ride, you suddenly find yourself amidst the serene mountains, where birdsong fills the crisp air, and a sense of peace washes over you.

Tokyo is the world’s largest city, home to a whopping 37.5 million people, and there is absolutely no shortage of things to do here. But, if you’re anything like me, spending a week or more in this city can get a bit overwhelming ; the crowds, the heat, the traffic. Trust me, you’ll end up needing a break from this chaotic metropolis.

After spending some time in the city, backpacking and hitchhiking around its surroundings, I’ve compiled the ULTIMATE list of the 10 best day trips from Tokyo .

From ancient towns, waterfalls, and beaches to encounters with snow monkeys, ascending the iconic Mount Fuji, and even the thrill of roller coasters, there’s a world of adventure right on Tokyo’s doorstep. Let’s delve into it friends!

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Getting Around Tokyo & Beyond

Half-day trips in tokyo, full-day trips in tokyo, final thoughts on day trips from tokyo.

I remember my first trip to Tokyo , arriving at the Shinjuku station, Japan’s most infamous and iconic station.

I hopped off the train with my backpack and only a few hours of sleep under my belt and found myself frozen. People were swarming around me like bees, becoming engulfed in the organized chaos that is a Tokyo train station.

After a few moments of shock, I headed over to the ticket machines to try to get to my hostel, as I hadn’t yet picked up a Japanese SIM card . I took one look at the map and started to cry… (admittedly partially from sleep deprivation).

Seriously, just take one look at the Tokyo metro map. It looks like an alien with a few dozen different colored tentacles.

In all seriousness, though, it’s pretty freakin’ confusing trying to navigate. I’ll try to explain it in simple terms for you so you don’t end up in confused tears like me…

Getting Around Tokyo

The Tokyo metro network consists of lines managed by several different companies. That means you can’t just buy one ticket and ride the metro wherever you want. There are the JR lines, the two subway networks, and several private lines as well.

Sound confusing? Well, it is.

The good news is that most Japanese people are super friendly and helpful, and will step in to save your dazed and confused ass, have Google Translate handy if you can though as many Japanese don’t speak much English. They’ll do a much better job of explaining things than I could.

Even though it’s a bit tricky to navigate, the Tokyo metro system is pretty awesome and will get you everywhere you need to go in the city.

There are plenty of  bus lines  as well, but those are even more difficult for the rookie to figure out.

Ubers and Taxis are available in Tokyo, but they’ll break the bank… try to stay away from them if you’re trying to do Japan on a budget.

Traveling by Train

I’m sure you’ve heard of Japan’s amazing high-speed trains by now. Japan definitely has one of the most impressive rail networks in the world, so traveling to and from Tokyo by train is a great option. Trains here are fast, comfortable, and incredibly punctual.

But train travel here can be a bit complicated. I always look at Google Maps for detailed and up-to-date info on the trains. Google Maps provides you with super useful info such as:

• Which platform the train is departing from and which exit to take (incredibly helpful as Shinjuku station has over 50 platforms and 200 exits)
• The total cost of the trip
• Whether or not your trip is covered by the JR pass
• Whether or not the train has air conditioning
• Best car number for most efficient entry/exit

PRO TIP : Get an IC card. I can’t believe I spent a week backpacking in Japan without one, grappling with the confusing ticket machines EVERY TIME I tried to take a train.

Trust me, grab an IC card like Suica, Pasmo, or Icoca.

You can add them to your Apple Wallet in a matter of seconds. Just tap when you enter and tap again when you exit, and your fare is automatically deducted. (You can use them at convenience stores and some grocery stores too, which is great if your debit card has foreign transaction fees).

Of course, bus travel is always an option to get to and from Tokyo as well. Since it’s the capital city and all, you can catch buses heading in all directions out of Tokyo. One bus company that I personally used is Willer Express .

I highly recommend checking out some of our best Japan travel tips , so that you get the most out of your experience while keeping your budget in check.

When you’re in Tokyo, no time goes to waste! Even if you’ve only got a weekend or a few days on your hands to explore, many memorable trips are just an hour away, or even less, from the city. 

These short Tokyo day trips are fun and unforgettable, and best of all, they only take half a day! So you’ve got plenty of time to visit all the best places in Tokyo  as well as the surroundings.

Yokohama, Japan’s second-largest city with a vibrant population of over 3 million, is a perfect blend of Oceanside charm and city life, also featuring amazing Chinese food (we’ll get into that in a moment).

This is an ideal day trip for those craving a city break within their city break, as it’s a lot less of an intense place than Tokyo itself. It’s also a neat place to stay too with a few different areas in Yokohama to choose from.

Here you’ll find not one but two ramen museums—the Cup Noodle Museum and the Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum —where you can make your own ramen and learn about the history of this famous dish. It’s actually a really fun experience, one I thoroughly enjoyed.

The city is home to the world’s largest Chinatown , which was founded in 1860 by the first immigrants from China. Don’t hesitate to try street foods like xiaolongbao, char siu bao, shu mai, and bubble tea.

Also, check out Yamashita Park with breezy views of the Port of Yokohama or shop at the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse. For a perfect day’s end, catch the sunset from the top of the Cosmo Clock 21 Ferris Wheel, once the world’s tallest at 107.5 meters.

For a truly memorable experience, consider indulging in a stay at a  capsule hotel in Yokohama . They’re a blast and totally unique way to do Japan!

Nicknamed ‘Little Edo,” Kawagoe is a city perfectly preserved in the past. It’s a town lined with traditional buildings converted into adorable restaurants, cafes, and shops.

You’ll know you’re in the right place when you spot the Toki no Kane bell tower , an unmistakable structure standing at a height of 16 meters. The bell chimes on four occasions daily, sounding at 6 a.m., noon, 3 p.m., and 6 p.m.

You can find numerous excellent lunch sets that offer traditional and reasonably priced options, with eel as their specialty.

NOTE : Think twice before ordering eel (unagi) as it’s critically endangered. There are many other, more ethical choices of fish you can make.

Make sure to check out the Kawago shrine as well. There you can catch a Tai to find out your fortune, cool off with the refreshing wind chimes in summer, or take part in some incredible Japanese festivals .

Enoshima is a top Tokyo beach spot, with sandy shores for lounging and a cool island to explore.

You can easily walk from the train station to the island, where you can visit shrines and Japanese gardens, or even chill in the caves on the other side. Just a heads-up, there are some stairs, but you can also take a boat around the island.

This rocky island has lots of fun stuff to see and great views, making it a sweet escape from the city, especially in the summer .

During this time, there are fun fireworks and events held by the sea. But be warned! In the summer, beachgoers from Tokyo come to escape the heat, and it can get insanely crowded .

This is also a great place for water sports such as paddleboarding, windsurfing, and kayaking. You can rent equipment and take lessons if you’re a beginner.

Packing in a day trip from Tokyo is a lot more rewarding than taking half-day trips. By heading out before the sun rises and leaving at the end of the day, you can easily pack in a full day of adventure and fun with your loved ones. These aren’t narrowed down for tourists alone, Japanese locals also love to explore their home!

Nikko lies north of Tokyo, a wonderful place known for its forests, waterfalls, and natural hot springs – a very peaceful day away from the busyness of Tokyo.

One of the most famous places in Nikko is the Toshogu Temple , the final resting place of Tokugawa Ieyasu, who ruled Japan for over 250 years. He was a pretty important guy, and you can tell by how elaborate and beautiful his tomb and shrine are.

Make sure not to miss Kegon Falls , one of Japan’s most famous waterfalls. At almost 100 meters high, it’s completely breathtaking. This EPIC Tour will take you through the Nikko Toshogu Shrine and Kegon Waterfall. Afterward, you can choose your own adventure before your tour concludes. Don’t miss it!

The most magical temple most will ever step foot in is in Nikko, Kanmangafuchi Abyss , located in a mystical forest full of Jizu statues of different sizes and shapes, carved thousands of years ago, all next to an electric blue, ice-cold river.

It’s one of those temples where, when you touch the stones, you can truly FEEL the energy of the past blast through your bones.

Lake Kawaguchiko

Lake Kawaguchiko, one of the Fuji Five Lakes, is arguably the best place for the ULTIMATE views of Fuji-san.

You can rent a bike here for $6.68 a day and explore the well-paved path around the lake, stopping at various attractions along the way. There are three highly popular museums, the Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum, the Kubota Itchiku Art Museum, and the Contemporary Art Museum .

Oishii Park, located on Lake Kawaguchiko’s north side, has some pretty jaw-dropping views of Mount Fuji – it’s like the  mountain’s personal portrait studio.

I’ve come up with the perfect Lake Kawaguchiko itinerary to guide you upon your visit, don’t miss it! You can take a nice walk along the pathways, chill on benches with perfect views, and witness a massive flower garden in full bloom. There are also some ice cream shops with local- flavors. Fuji-apple ice cream, anyone?

Hakone is a popular spot to see Mt. Fuji. It’s a convenient 1.5-hour trip from Tokyo, nestled around Lake Asahi. Here you can relax in some of the country’s most famous hot springs, a true highlight of Hakone.

If you’ve got 3-4 days, you can give the time and love to the villages and the backroads that make Hakone unique and stay in the best places . For the best experience, consider visiting Hakone in the autumn , when the changing season paints the hillsides in a golden hue.

You can detour to Owakudani to witness the sulfur steam rising from the live volcano and the steaming hot rivers. This is the place to savor the renowned black eggs that the region is famous for—they say indulging in these might add seven years to your life, so eat wisely!

If you’re going to Hakone from Tokyo, you can get the Hakone Free Pass , a pass designed for tourists to save money while visiting Hakone from Tokyo.

This pass includes a round-trip ticket from Tokyo to Hakone, a lake cruise at Ashi Lake, unlimited public transport in Hakone, and discounts on a lot of attractions once you’re there.

I recommend jumping in for this 6-hour private tour around Hakone . The guide was extremely knowledgeable, friendly, and helpful in showing us one of the most amazing areas around Hakone. GET EXICTED!

Nagano 

Don’t miss out on the chance to stay in Nagano and experience its wonders! Nagano Prefecture is overflowing with amazing places to explore.

If you catch an early Shinkansen to Nagano City, you’ll have time to visit renowned spots like the Togakushi shrine path and the Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park before returning to Tokyo.

Check out Nagano City, home to Japan’s most famous temple Zenko-Ji, and also the host of the 1998 Winter Olympic Games.

Zenko-Ji Temple is home to the first Buddhist statue ever brought to Japan. Right outside the temple, there’s a lively street filled with shops and stalls selling all sorts of things, from handcrafted goods to fancy tea.

Nagano is also famous for its onsen resorts , where you can unwind in soothing hot springs. While many require an overnight stay, a few, like Shibu, welcome day-trip tourists from Tokyo.

The main attraction in Nagano and a personal highlight of my trip was the famous Nagano Snow Monkeys , which are truly remarkable. There doesn’t need to be snow on the ground to see them either! I saw them swimming around in the hot spring in the middle of September.

Jump on this EPIC day trip to discover Nagano’s near-1400-year-old Zenko-ji Temple and visit the world-famous Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park.

Hike Mt. Fuji

Tackling Mount Fuji, Japan’s iconic volcano, is on every Japanese backpacker’s bucket list. It’s also home to one of Japan’s wonderful national parks . It is no small feat, but with the right planning and a sprinkle of determination, it can be an AMAZING adventure.

First things first, pick the right season. The official climbing season is from July to September, when the snow has melted and the trails are accessible.

There are ten mountain huts along the way where you can rest, refuel, and even catch some z’s if needed. These huts provide simple meals, hot drinks, and a place to rest, but don’t expect luxury accommodations – it’s all part of the experience.

As you inch closer to the summit, the air gets thinner, and you might start feeling the effects of altitude. Take it slow and steady, and don’t be afraid to take breaks. The sight of a breathtaking sunrise from the summit makes every step worth it.

You’ll really enjoy this day trip around Mt Fuji, but if you don’t want the extra stress of traveling, stay a night or two and take it easy!

When thinking of  where to stay on Mt. Fuji , you’ve got some cool areas to choose from.

Swap your walking shoes for flip-flops and head to Atami. Perched on the hills overlooking Sagami Bay, it’s a coastal onsen town just inside Shizuoka Prefecture.

Unlike some other seaside spots in Japan, Atami doesn’t feel like a deserted ghost town. It bustles with life. However, you’ll spot remnants of the 80s bubble era, like flashy but slightly weathered hotels, a few empty buildings, and some intriguing Brutalist architecture.

Being a town that combines hot springs and the seaside, Atami offers something for all seasons. In the colder months, you can enjoy a relaxing onsen soak, while in the warmer months, take a dip in the sea. The town’s name, “Hot Ocean,” reflects its natural hot springs, making it a popular getaway for Tokyo residents since the 8th century.

Try heading to Kinomiya Shrine , a short 15-minute walk from Atami. Here, you’ll find a 1,300-year-old tree believed to grant an extra year of life to those who walk around it.

You can also try cooling off indoors at the MOA Museum of Art or the Hihokan Adult Museum (meaning sex museum.. worth a look?!).

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Fuji Q Highlands

Fuji-Q Highland, often referred to simply as Fuji-Q, is a renowned amusement park located at the base of Mount Fuji. The park is home to some of the most famous and intense roller coasters in Japan. It features “ Eejanaika ,” a 4D roller coaster that flips riders head over heels, and “ Fujiyama ,” once the tallest and fastest coaster in the world.

In addition to the rides, there are also more family-friendly attractions such as carousels, Ferris wheels, and water rides. It also has dining options, souvenir shops, and entertainment shows.

You can also check out the Haunted Hospital, beware: you must have strong nerves to go there.

Fuji-Q Highland can be reached directly by bus from Shinjuku station. The trip takes about an hour and 40 minutes.

Don’t Forget Your Tokyo Travel Insurance

Japan is a safe country to visit. But, besides, you can’t plan for everything. Believe me, if things don’t go according to plan,  solid Japan insurance  is invaluable.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

From the peace of mystical mountains to exploring ancient towns, chasing waterfalls, relaxing on beautiful beaches, and connecting with snow monkeys, there’s something for every adventurer just on Tokyo’s doorstep.

Don’t forget the iconic Mount Fuji for those seeking the thrill of a challenging ascent or the exhilaration of roller coasters for an adrenaline rush.

Having personally explored these day trips from Tokyo on my own Japan backpacking adventure, I can tell you that there are so many fantastic options. This list only covers the TOP 10 best day trips from Tokyo.

These places provide a perfect balance to the city’s chaotic energy, allowing you to soak in the beauty and serenity of Japan’s diverse landscapes, all within easy reach of Tokyo. So, pack up your backpack and get out of the craziness of the city to see a whole other side of Japan.

Made it this far? You get 15% OFF to book a place to stay ! Offer valid exclusively for Broke Backpackers 😉

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13 best day trips for a weekend getaway from Tokyo

Find some of Japan’s most beautiful temples, hiking trails and nature attractions no more than a few hours from Tokyo

It’s true that Tokyo really does have everything, from the best restaurants in the world to endless shopping and even lush forest within the city limits. It’s way too easy to spend a whole vacation in the heart of central Tokyo. However, Japan has much more to offer than just its capital city.

Get out of the city for a day (or longer, if you have time) and head south to Kanagawa hot springs, north to Tochigi for traditional shrines, or out to Yamanashi for postcard perfect views of Mt Fuji . Tokyo might have captured your heart, but these day trips will fully cement your love of Japan.  

If you're looking for a specific kind of day trip, here are the best autumn leaves destinations and art destinations near Tokyo .

Get out of town

Hakone, kanagawa prefecture.

The mountain of Hakone lies about 90 minutes by train from Tokyo, which makes it a popular day trip or weekend getaway from the capital. It has had a long and illustrious history as a hot spring town – its name even appears in Edo-era (1603-1868) rankings of Japan’s best onsen. But Hakone is about much more than just bathing. It’s got everything from superb art museums to an active volcano – as well as a jaw-dropping view of Mt Fuji on clear days.

Getting there: The Hakone Freepass includes unlimited rides on the Hakone Tozan Railway, the ropeway, the Lake Ashi pirate ship and all other major forms of transportation in the area. A two-day pass, which includes a return train ride from Shinjuku, costs ¥6,100 (¥1,100 for children).

Kawagoe, Saitama prefecture

Also known as Koedo or Little Edo, Kawagoe is an Edo period (1603-1867) castle town that's kept its old-fashioned atmosphere through well-preserved traditional streets and buildings. 

Kurazukuri Street is a must-visit as many of the old buildings and warehouses have been converted into quaint shops and restaurants. You'll know you've reached the area when you see the Toki no Kane bell tower – it's an unmissable 16 metres tall. The bell rings four times a day at 6am, 12noon, 3pm and 6pm. 

A short walk from the town's main street is Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine, which hosts many festivals throughout the year. In summer, this so-called 'love shrine' hosts a wind chime festival where you can stroll under a tunnel of tinkling furin  chimes. Come spring, the river behind the shrine is flanked with cherry blossoms and you can even take a boat ride beneath the flowers.

Getting there: Kawagoe is approximately 30 minutes from Ikebukuro Station on the Tobu Tojo line. You can also get there from Shinjuku in about an hour on the Seibu Shinjuku line. The two nearest stations are Hon-Kawagoe and Kawagoe.

Enoshima, Kanagawa prefecture

• Things to do

Travel down to the Kanagawa coast and you’ll find the small but beautiful Enoshima. The hilly island lies off the Shonan coast in western Kanagawa, and is connected to the mainland by a bridge that's open to both vehicles and pedestrians.

Enoshima is one of the most popular islands nearest to Tokyo. You’ll find a number of cultural monuments, quaint cafés and sightseeing attractions, more than enough to fuel a day trip. When the weather’s clear, you can even see Mt Fuji in the distance. 

Getting there: The Enoshima-Kamakura Freepass  includes a round-trip ticket on the Odakyu line from Shinjuku to Katase-Enoshima Station, which takes about 80 minutes one way. You also get unlimited rides on the Enoden line between Fujisawa and Kamakura stations for a bit of extended sightseeing in the area. The pass costs ¥1,640 for adults and ¥430 for children. It's a 12-minute walk from Katase-Enoshima Station to the island.

Kurkku Fields, Kisarazu, Chiba prefecture

Sustainability, art, eco-friendly farmland and the rolling hills of the inaka (countryside) –  Kurkku Fields really does have it all. Located in Kisarazu, Chiba prefecture, Kurkku Fields is a 74-acre sustainable wonderland with the goal of reconnecting busy Tokyoites with nature by introducing them to farming, open nature and even eco-friendly energy in the form of solar panels and a biogeo water purification system. The venue’s farm-to-table restaurant, Kurkku Fields Dining, serves vegetables and herbs grown in the edible garden, eggs and fresh cheese from the dairy farm, and wood-fired pizzas, all made with natural, local ingredients.

Stop by the art galleries, which boast art by Anish Kapoor, Fabrice Hybert, Camille Henrot and Yayoi Kusama – including one of her famous Infinity Rooms. Don’t forget to pick up some fresh charcuterie, cheese and delicate chiffon cake for your city pals. 

Getting there: The best way to access Kurkku Fields is by highway bus from Tokyo Station or Yokohama Station. For more information on access via car or train, see the  website . 

Nikko, Tochigi prefecture

With mountains, hiking trails, monkeys and shrines, at its heart, Nikko is pure traditional Japan. A popular day trip for both Tokyo locals and international tourists, Nikko is best known for the grand Toshogu Shrine and its opulent decorations of carved wood and gold, including three famous wise monkeys representing the principle of ‘see no evil, hear no evil, say no evil’. 

While Toshogu is surely the highlight of the trip, Nikko is also known for forested hiking trails, which are especially picturesque in autumn foliage. There’s also Shinkyo Bridge, painted vermillion and flanked by mountains and temples, and the 75-metre tall Kirifuri waterfall dramatically tumbling down a mountain. 

Getting there: The only direct access is on the limited express Nikko train from Shinjuku station to Tobu Nikko Station. You can also take the JR Tohoku Shinkansen from Tokyo and Ueno stations with a transfer at Utsunomiya Station for the JR Nikko line. Or, from Asakusa, take the Limited Express Spacia (Kegon line) from Tobu Asakusa Station to Tobu Nikko Station. 

Kamakura, Kanagawa prefecture

This small coastal town is often referred to as the Kyoto of Eastern Japan for its multitude of temples, shrines and historical monuments. It was the country’s political capital during the Kamakura shogunate (1185–1333) and there’s plenty to do and see here. Top of the list should be a visit to the Great Buddha of Kamakura (Kamakura Daibutsu). This towering bronze statue of the celestial Buddha is the second tallest in Japan and stands at 13.35m. Originally cast in 1252, the Buddha has been peacefully watching over its visitors since 1495.

If you have a little more time, pay a visit to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, Kamakura’s largest Shinto shrine. You can reach it via a long, wide approach that leads from Kamakura’s waterfront through the city centre, with multiple torii gates along the way. The grounds include the main hall, a museum and many secondary shrines as well as beautiful ponds and gardens. Look out for a horseback archery display during the Reitai-sai Festival in mid-September performed along the main approach.

Getting there: Kamakura is less than an hour from Tokyo via the JR Yokosuka or Shonan-Shinjuku line from Shinjuku Station. The cheapest but slowest route (90 minutes) is via the Enoshima Kamakura Free Pass (¥1,640), which provides a round trip from Shinjuku Station to Kamakura, as well as unlimited use of the Enoden line for the day.

Lake Kawaguchiko, Yamanashi prefecture

One of the Fuji Five Lakes, Lake Kawaguchiko is where you’ll get the best view (and perfect Instagram shots) of Mt Fuji. Filled with hot springs, ryokan (Japanese inns) and tourist attractions such as the Fuji-Q Highland theme park, there’s so much to do around the lake you might as well book a weekend trip.

The best time to view good ol’ Fuji-san is in April when the cherry blossoms bloom, November when maple leaves turn vermillion, or in winter when the dry air makes for a picture-perfect, cloud-free view of the snow-capped mountain. Hint: the best photo spot is along the northeastern shore of Lake Kawaguchiko, next to the Kawaguchiko Music Forest. 

Getting there: Lake Kawaguchi is accessible by express bus (from Shinjuku, Shibuya and Tokyo stations, about two to two and a half hours) and express train (from Shinjuku station, take the JR Chuo line to Otsuki Station, transfer to Fujikyu Railway and get off at Kawaguchiko Station. The whole journey takes about two hours).

Chiba City, Chiba prefecture

Most visitors to Tokyo only set foot in Chiba when they disembark the aeroplane. However, Chiba has much more to offer than just Narita Airport – and Chiba City has something for everyone. Art lover? Stop by the Chiba City Museum of Art to see ukiyo-e and traditional Japanese ink paintings. Need to entertain the kids? The Chiba Zoological Park has a wide variety of animals, including red pandas, giraffes and penguins. History buff? The Chiba City Folk Museum is housed in a replica of the Inohana Castle and is dedicated to the history of Chiba City. 

Getting there: From Tokyo Station, take the JR Sobu line and you'll reach Chiba City in 40 minutes.

Mt Jinba, Tokyo & Kanagawa prefectures

A crowd-free alternative to Mt Takao is Mt Jinba, located on the border of western Tokyo and Kanagawa. The hike to the top is better suited for trekkers looking for an advanced course: at 857m, Mt Jinba is taller and has a better variety of trails than Mt Takao’s more predictable, not to mention shorter, courses.

If you’re really looking to get a workout, you can always hike up Mt Takao, veer off to Mt Jinba, snap a quick pic of Mt Fuji and the odd-looking horse statue at the peak, then head down Mt Jinba and reward yourself with fresh soba noodles and beer. Don’t worry, hiking paths are clearly marked and the majority of the signs are in English. 

Getting there: From Shinjuku Station, take the Keio or Chuo line to Takao Station, then hop on the bus towards Jinba Kogenshita and get off at the last stop.

Yokohama, Kanagawa prefecture

If you want to head out of Tokyo but don’t want to spend too much time on the train, Yokohama is the perfect choice. Just down south in Tokyo’s neighbouring prefecture Kanagawa, Yokohama is known for its oceanside views and delicious Chinese food in Motomachi-Chukagai, also known as Chinatown . The area can be a bit kitschy – expect a lot of vermillion and pandas – but remember, you’re there for the food. Wear your elastic pants and indulge at an all-you-can-eat restaurant, or wander the town and taste test street food – xiaolongbao, char siu bao, shu mai and bubble tea – it’s completely okay to walk and eat here. 

After indulging, walk off your meal at the nearby Yamashita Park with breezy views of the Port of Yokohama, or do some shopping at the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse . To finish off the day, catch the sunset at the top of the Cosmo Clock 21 Ferris Wheel, once the world’s tallest Ferris wheel at 107.5m. 

Getting there: Yokohama is easily accessible from Tokyo. The Tokyu Toyoko, JR Tokaido, JR Yokosuka and JR Keihin-Tohoku lines connect central Tokyo to Yokohama in approximately 30 minutes. 

Karuizawa, Nagano prefecture

Nestled at the foot of Mount Asama, the most active volcano in Honshu, lies the upmarket resort town of Karuizawa. Many wealthier Tokyoites own second homes here. Start your day at Karuizawa Ginza in the old part of the town, with its traditional shops, cafés, restaurants and stalls selling locally-produced jams and honey. Serious shoppers searching for serious discounts should head to the Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza near the train station. This discount shopping outlet is home to over 200 stores set in a sprawling and beautifully landscaped area – great for kids to run wild while you splash the cash.

When your credit cards scream for mercy, escape to the open-air Tombo-no-yu bath house for a peaceful soak. Finish off your day at Harunire Terrace and order yourself a refreshing pint of the locally-brewed Yona Yona ale.

Getting there: Karuizawa is just over an hour from Tokyo on the Hokuriku Shinkansen. Get the JR Tokyo Wide Pass (¥10,180) for unlimited travel on all JR trains in the Kanto area over three consecutive days (available to foreign residents of Japan and international tourists). There are also highway buses  departing from Shinjuku and Ikebukuro Stations, which will take about three hours. 

Sayama Hills, Saitama prefecture

• Attractions

Best known for inspiring Hayao Miyazaki and the movie ‘My Neighbour Totoro’, Sayama Hills , also called Totoro no Mori, is a breath of fresh air just outside Greater Tokyo. Channel your inner Satsuki and Mei and pack a bento lunch to wander around the 3,500 hectares of forest with over 1,200 species of flora and fauna  and 19 hiking trails .

Be sure to stop by Kurosuke’s House (open Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday 10am-3pm) – the visitor’s centre – to pick up maps and learn about the nature reserve and its influence on Studio Ghibli and Totoro. You might not get to befriend a giant tanuki or ride in a cat bus (you’ll have to stop by the Ghibli Museum for that) but the fresh air and secluded forest will certainly add a sense of childlike wonder to your trip. 

While you’re in the area, stop by the nearby Sayama Lake reservoir. The lake is pleasant in any season, but especially in winter, when you can easily spot a snow-capped Mt Fuji on the horizon. 

Getting there: From Shinjuku Station take the JR Yamanote line to Ikebukuro, then transfer to the Ikebukuro line and alight at Nishi-Tokorozawa Station. Take the Sayama line to Seibu Kyujo-Mae Station. It will be a 20-minute walk to reach the forest. 

Katsunuma, Yamanashi prefecture

Although better known for sake than vino, Japan has actually been producing amazing wines using locally-grown grapes since the 1800s. Katsunuma, in Yamanashi prefecture, is home to 31 wineries, which between them account for about 30 percent of all Japanese wine. Many offer tasting sessions and lessons in winemaking as well as tours.

Experience it yourself at Budo no Oka (Grape Hill). Here, you can soak in magnificent views of the surrounding vineyards and the Japanese Southern Alps to the west – Yamanashi is home to Mount Fuji – while tasting more than 200 varieties of wine. Aside from wine tastings, there’s plenty more to enjoy on site, including a terrific barbecue restaurant and open-air hot spring.

Getting there: Katsunuma is about 90 minutes on the JR Chuo line Limited Express Azusa, or Kaiji from Tokyo’s Shinjuku Station to Katsunuma-Budokyo Station.

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Top 25 Easy Day Trips From Tokyo

See another side of Japan with these easy day trips from Tokyo.

From walking in the shadow of Mt. Fuji to gazing at extravagant temples and shrines, there are many interesting things to do and places to visit around Tokyo. If you’re looking for suggestions, here are our best 25 easy day trips from Tokyo — by train, bus or private car — including some underrated gems.

Pro tip: Before buying any train tickets, see if the JR Tokyo Wide Pass will save you some money.

The best Tokyo day trip for you may depend on the season. Check out our other articles for highlights across the year:

• Winter Day Trips From Tokyo
• Spring Day Trips from Tokyo
• Summer Day Trips From Tokyo
• Autumn Day Trips From Tokyo

Note that all prices listed below are estimates.

1. Kamakura

1 hour by train from Shinjuku Station ¥ 950 (one way) Recommended tour: A fun day out discovering Kamakura

One of the more popular spots, Kamakura is well known for its traditional Kyoto style, with temples and shrines galore. There are great light hiking options , as well as plenty of delicious local street foods to try and beaches to lie on. You can easily cover the area in a day, with hikes taking you to see the famed giant Buddha, as well as beautiful shrines with bamboo forests , teahouses, and more.

Pro tip: Go deeper into Kita Kamakura, with brunch and a guided temple tour .

For a full run-down of what’s on offer, see our Kamakura mega guide .

2. Enoshima

1 hour 10 minutes by train from Shinjuku Station ¥ 650 (one way) Recommended tour: Kamakura and Enoshima day tour

As one of the most popular Tokyo beach resorts (also see neighbor Kamakura), Enoshima offers sands to lie on and a stunning island to explore. You can walk to the island easily from the station and visit shrines, an observatory, and gardens, before cooling off in the caves on the other side. Be warned, there are quite a few steps, but you can also explore the island by boat.

Read up on the various Enoshima sightseeing options , as well as how to get there from Tokyo.

Pro tip: Combine Kamakura and Enoshima in an economical one-day bus tour from Tokyo .

1 hour 50 minutes by train from Asakusa Station 2-day Nikkō pass available : ¥ 2,120 (round trip, does not incl. limited express fare) Recommended tour: Guided Nikkō day tour from Tokyo

Easily extended into a weekend trip but great for a busy day too, Nikkō is famed for its stunning scenery and numerous temples and shrines. You can explore the cultural spots or escape into nature, such as the nearby waterfall or lake. Make sure to visit the elegant Tōshōgū Shrine , dedicated to the founding ruler of the Tokugawa Shogunate, Tokugawa Ieyasu.

See our Nikkō sightseeing guide for more info on what to do there, and our Nikkō transport guide for the best ways to get there from Tokyo.

1 hour 30 minutes by train from Shinjuku Station ¥ 2,470 (one way) Recommended tour: Mt Fuji and Hakone 1-Day Bus Tour Return by Bullet Train

Home to hot springs galore, onsen eggs, mountains, and teahouses, Hakone is one of the most popular day trips from Tokyo. Perfect for a nature-based escape, it has  three great hiking trails , as well as gondolas to volcanic valleys and pirate ships that traverse a beautiful lake. There are over a dozen museums in the area so you can take your pick, from wandering around the Hakone Open Air Museum to Impressionist collections at the Pola Museum . It’s also a great place for Evangelion fans to see their favorite spots from the anime. You may need more than a day in Hakone to experience everything.

Read more about the things you can get up to in Hakone and other options to get there in our full Hakone guide and Hakone day trip itinerary .

5. Kawaguchiko

2 hours by train or bus from Shinjuku Station From ¥ 2,200 (one way) Recommended tour: Mt Fuji Day Trip with Private English Speaking Driver

Mount Fuji is probably pretty high on your Japan list, and unless you’re climbing it , a view of the world-famous volcano is hard to beat. Enter Kawaguchiko. Here you can choose from views across fields of moss phlox , clear lakes, or lavender — in fact, there aren’t many places that won’t have Mt. Fuji somewhere in the background. The most iconic of these can be found featuring the Chūreitō Pagoda at Arakurayama Sengen Park, or on top of a rollercoaster at Fuji Q Highland .

With annual flower festivals, plenty of museums and nature spots, onsen, and more, Kawaguchiko is an easy day trip from Tokyo with lots to choose from.

Take a look at our full Kawaguchiko day trip guide for all the info, especially on how to get there: highway buses may be a better option than trains for some visitors.

Pro tip: This Mt. Fuji day trip tour , which includes a visit to the fifth station of Mount Fuji, plus a ride on the Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway and a stop-off at Lake Kawaguchi, for ¥ 11,900 , is a good-value way to see the sights.

30 minutes by train from Ikebukuro Station ¥ 490 (one way)

Nicknamed Little Edo, Kawagoe is a charming town that has preserved the Edo feel with traditional buildings and plenty of great food. A 15- to 30-minute walk from Kawagoe Station, Kurazukuri Street is lined with preserved warehouse buildings characterized by clay walls and tiles. There are over 200 in the surrounding area and many have been turned into cafes and restaurants. There are plenty of traditional (and reasonable) lunch sets, with the local specialty being eel.

Editor’s note: Eel (unagi) is endangered , so you may want to think twice before ordering it.

There is also a whole street dedicated to sweets, in Kawagoe. If you go on the 18th of the month, you’ll see plenty of kimono-wearers (and can wear one yourself if you like), as discounts are given to those sporting the traditional outfits.

See if this is the day trip for you with our mega Kawagoe guide .

7. Mount Takao

55 minutes by train from Shinjuku Station ¥ 430 (one way) Recommended tour: Full Day Hiking Tour at Mt.Takao including Hot Spring

Easy to get to, fun to hike, and home to a monkey park, Takao is a brilliant day trip for hikers and is only an hour from Tokyo. There is the lovely Yakuoin Temple around halfway up the mountain, with a creepy bird-faced Tengu standing guard. Once you reach the top, there are amazing panoramic views of Tokyo and Mt. Fuji to enjoy, as well as a wild plant garden and the aforementioned monkey park. Check out our guide to hiking routes near Tokyo, including Takao .

For more details on Takao, how to get there, and what to do once you’ve arrived, check out our full Mount Takao guide .

8. Odawara City

1 hour 30 minutes by train from Shinjuku Station ¥ 910 (one way)

See one of the closest castle keeps to Tokyo. Odawara is a great day trip with a beautiful castle carefully restored from Edo-period drawings. You can also enjoy the fishing port for a slap-up lunch of freshly caught fish in a donburi (rice-bowl dish) at the Odawara Fish Market Den . Stroll in the relaxing Tsujimura Botanical Gardens to round off your afternoon before heading back to the big city.

Read about more castles near Tokyo .

Pro tip: Let a knowledgeable guide show you the sights, and then sit down to dinner with a geisha as part of a special Odawara tour .

9. Ibaraki’s Ushiku Daibutsu

1 hour 30 minutes by train and bus from Tokyo Station ¥ 1,690 (one way)

An unusual day trip takes you to see the second largest Buddha in the world — and to explore its rather surreal insides. Situated in Ibaraki , the statue stands as a perfect excuse for a day in the country, plus a picnic. You can venture inside the Buddha to practice calligraphy , see 3,000 golden Buddhas, have your shrine book signed, and enjoy views from the observation deck. The surrounding gardens have a petting zoo, koi pond, and flower displays, which change with the season.

Have a look at the full Ushiku Daibutsu article if you fancy scaling the beast.

10. Chichibu

1 hour 20 minutes by train from Ikebukuro Station ¥ 1,700 (one way)

Known mainly for its shiba-zakura festival in spring, Chichibu is a small-ish city in the west of Saitama that’s very underrated. Originally an industrial town, Chichibu is moving more toward tourism, and with its incredible mountains, that shouldn’t be a difficult transition.

There are plenty of shrines and temples to visit, as well as a pilgrimage route featuring 34 Buddhist temples. Chichibu has long had a reputation for meisen , a special silk produced only in the town and highly lauded in Edo times. You can still visit the Meisenkan to see original looms and purchase some locally made silk.

11. Kawasaki

15 minutes by train from Tokyo Station ¥ 320 (one way)

Smaller and not as well known as Kanagawa Prefecture largest city ( Yokohama ), Kawasaki is still a lovely location with plenty to explore. While it might be best known for a certain festival , Kawasaki has other attractions, including the rather massive Daishi Temple , the Doraemon Museum , and the Japan Open-Air Folk House Museum to stroll around (known as the Nihon Minkaen). Unfortunately, Kawasaki’s once-famous dystopian warehouse amusement arcade  has long since closed.

12. Takasaki

1 hour 45 minutes by train from Shinjuku Station ¥ 1,980 (one way)

Takasaki is a laid-back city in Gunma . It is the home of Daruma — the angry-faced figures you will no doubt have seen on your travels, who bring good luck in accomplishing goals. A large majority of them are made here and you can find plenty for sale as souvenirs. There’s also the Takasaki Daruma Ichi, a market full of Daruma held on January 6 and 7.

You can visit the Jigenin Temple complex to see Daruma of every shape and size, which also happens to be near one of the biggest Kannon statues in Japan. The White-Robed Kannon stands at 40 m tall and you can enjoy views from the top for ¥ 300 . Combine that with a walk along the traditional Ishiharamachi Shopping Street and you’ll have a grand day out!

1 hour 40 minutes by train from Tokyo Station ¥ 1,980 (one way)

Atami is a hot-spring resort and a brilliant day trip from Tokyo — it has plenty of unusual attractions to keep you entertained. As well as soaking in salt-water hot springs, lazing on the beach, and enjoying the views, you can also visit a fake castle, which houses displays about real castles, enjoy the trick-art museum, and even get the gondola up to the sex museum , aka Treasure House (that actually makes it weirder?).

Plus, there is the excellent MOA Museum of Art with a mixture of Eastern and Western pieces, including work by Monet, Rembrandt, and Ogata Korin. Atami is also a good destination for divers and plum blossom lovers .

Check out our full day-trip guide to Atami and explore other nearby Izu spots , too.

Pro tip: For the non-Cheapo in a hurry, you can take the Shinkansen to Atami and slim the journey time down to 40 minutes.

14. Mt. Nokogiri

2 hours 5 minutes by train from Tokyo Station ¥ 1,980 (one way) Idea: Hike Mt. Nokogiri with a guide

For a real escape into nature, Nokogiriyama (aka Sawtooth Mountain) is an amazing hike filled with quarry drops, stunning views and plenty of Buddhas. The Nihonji Temple complex is stretched out across the mountaintop and has lots to explore. From the largest cliff-carved Buddha to a 30-meter Goddess of Mercy with 1500 (mostly decapitated) arhat in between, you’ll be happily distracted as you clamber up the stairs carved into the mountain. The famous View to Hell is really incredible, both to look at and enjoy yourself, and is right by the Goddess of Mercy, which might allay some vertigo fears.

Check out our guide to getting to hell and back .

15. Okutama

2 hours by train from Shinjuku Station ¥ 1,110 (one way)

A beautiful haven filled with mountains, rivers, waterfalls, and plenty more — Okutama is perfect for a long weekend or a quick escape. There are full-day hiking trails like this one , which takes you across three mountains, or you can try some of the more relaxed wanderings in the valleys.

The upper reaches of the Tama River are a brilliant place to relax away from the sweltering city heat in summer and also offer a wide range of water sports, like rafting . You can also visit Nippara Cave —the longest in the Kanto region. Read our easy day-trip itinerary for Okutama .

16. Misaki Port Town and Jogashima Island

1 hour 40 minutes by train and bus from Shinagawa Station ¥ 1,090 (one way)

If you really want to escape, there’s nowhere better than an island to really feel like you’ve put some distance between you and Tokyo. On the Miura coast of Kanagawa, the small fishing town of Misaki (known as Japan’s “tuna town”) has its own fish market early in the morning and plenty of fresh fish to fill up on too. The official market finishes at 9 a.m., but most stalls remain open till late afternoon.

Feeling fancy? You can snag yourself a luxury overnight stay in Miura , complete with your own private sushi chef (it’s not as pricey as it sounds).

Jogashima Island is connected to Misaki Town and is rocky with some swimming spots, plus a hiking trail that takes you all the way around — a distance of about 3–4 km. If that seems like too much work, get off early at Miura-kaigan Station and head to Miura Beach or visit the early-blooming cherry blossom festival in March.

Our Miura day trip guide  has more details on the peninsula.

17. Yokohama

25 minutes by train from Tokyo Station ¥ 490 (one way)

The second biggest city in Japan with over 3 million people, Yokohama has plenty to keep you entertained if you’re after a city break from your city break. With stunning night views across the Minato Mirai waterfront area, not one but two ramen museums (the  Cup Noodle Museum  and the  Shin-Yokohama Raumen Museum ), an amazing  art scene , the beautiful  Sankei-en Gardens  and a massive  Chinatown , you can have a brilliantly busy day out in a more relaxed city.

Check out our sample itinerary for ideas on how to spend a day in Yokohama .

1 hour 5 minutes by train from Ueno Station ¥ 3,890 (one way)

The capital city of nearby Ibaraki Prefecture, Mito was once the stronghold of the Mito clan in the Edo period. It is now most famous for the stunning Kairaku-en Gardens , which are one of the top three gardens in the country.

The gardens were designed by Tokugawa Nariaki, the ninth feudal lord of the clan, as one of the first public gardens (even though it was only for samurai level and above). Regular buses run from the station to the gardens and you can also enjoy the incredibly modern Art Tower and the Mito City Museum .

For a more nature-based day out, you could visit Lake Senba and cycle around as there are bike rental places nearby. If you’re there in spring, there’s a delightful plum festival .

19. Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea

15 minutes by train from Tokyo Station ¥ 230 (one way)

Among the more unique Disney resorts, Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea are markedly different from the others dotted across the world.

Aside from just enjoying all the usual rides and Disney stuff, you can visit the only DisneySea , try the variety of popcorn flavors, and enjoy all the matching costumes (and this time we mean the guests, not the characters). These two parks are (we’re told) the only ones in the world not wholly owned by Disney (although they do have creative control), so it is a great chance to see a Japanese twist on classics — although don’t worry, nothing key has been altered!

If you’re keen to head to the fun straight from the airport, check out our Narita to Disney guide . If you want pointers to good hotels in the area, check out our Disney accommodation guide , and here are some tips for saving money at Disney .

Pro tip: Pre-book your Tokyo Disney Resort tickets online , for ease of entry.

20. Nagatoro and the Arakawa River

2 hours 15 minutes by train from Shinjuku Station ¥ 1,950 (one way)

Nagatoro arguably offers some of the most stunning, unspoiled nature in all of Japan, as well as the chance to get involved. You can enjoy a riverboat tour through some surprisingly rapid waters, with over 200,000 visitors trying it every year. If you like a little danger, you can try white water rafting or paragliding, and if you don’t, there’s a riverside hiking trail too.

The small town is home to Hodosan Mountain Shrine and Iwadatami shopping street, which is filled with local produce. There’s an occasional steam train, the “ Paleo Express ” running on the Chichibu Railway, which stops for a while and lets off steam at Nagatoro. Remember to try the local specialty of walnuts and sun-dried tomatoes, as well as locally made soba and udon.

21. Chiba City

40 minutes by train from Tokyo Station ¥ 660 (one way)

One of the closest day trips from Tokyo, Chiba City is packed with all things traditional as well as some amazing modern creations too. The castle is a folk museum with plenty to learn, and Chiba Shrine is not to be missed. You can enjoy some great art at the Hoki Museum , which focuses on realism and has a variety of works. There is also the Chiba Museum of Art and the Science Museum , so no one is left wanting on the museum front.

To get around the city, you can ride the world’s longest-suspended monorail which feels wrong, but is definitely safe. One of the most visited spots is the Chiba Port Tower, which was built to commemorate the population reaching 5 million in the 1980s, and offers a 360-degree view of the city and its surroundings. There are numerous parks and even a zoo complete with pandas — so you can balance your day perfectly.

22. Katsunuma

2 hours 10 minutes by train from Shinjuku Station ¥ 1,980 (one way)

Fans of wine, look no further. Katsunuma is one of the top three wine producers in the country and is only a stone’s throw away in nearby Yamanashi Prefecture . Despite the humidity, wine has been successfully produced in Japan since the Meiji Period (with Emperor Meiji being a great fan himself). It does require a slightly different procedure compared to grapes grown in less humid countries, but is no less delicious!

With plenty of wineries nearby, you can enjoy unlimited tastings like the coin-operated wine machines from ¥ 100 at Budo no Oka , or just enjoy the hospitality of the different wineries on your route — although purchasing is recommended eventually. Along with the grapes, the area produces plenty of fresh fruit and veg, and you can easily pick up some delicious treats for dinner before heading home.

23. Shuzenji Onsen

2 hours by train from Tokyo Station ¥ 4,640 (one way)

Grab a rickshaw, rent a kimono, and bask in the tranquility of this sleepy onsen town. Shuzenji Onsen is known for its crimson foliage in autumn , when many of the already beautiful local sights get a dust of gold. Here you’ll find one of the oldest hot spring baths in Izu, Tokko no Yu (look, don’t touch); a bamboo grove down a narrow path; a vermillion “lovers” bridge; and Shuzenji Temple, which often holds events throughout the year.

You can take the Odoriko train directly to Shuzenji Station from Tokyo, but the journey is even quicker — around 1 hour 30 minutes — if you grab the Shinkansen from Tokyo Station and change to the Izuhakone Tetsudo-Sunzu Line at Mishima Station. A special bus liner for ¥ 2,000 operates during the autumn season.

24. Jōgasaki Coast

1 hour 50 minutes by train and bus from Tokyo Station ¥ 4,480 (one way)

This jagged coastal walk in Izu is for those who like getting out into nature. Its scenic ocean views, lighthouse, and suspension bridges show the rugged side of Japan.

Get off at Jōgasaki-Kaigan Station and walk around 20 to 30 minutes to the start of the Jogasaki Picnical Course. You can then follow the coast to Izu Oceanic Park and end by getting a bus to Izu-Kōgen Station, where you can head back to Tokyo. If you are feeling adventurous, you could extend your hike along the coast or grab a 30-minute bus (Bus No. 108) from Izu Oceanic Park to extinct volcano Mt. Omuro .

Consider spending more than a day in the Izu Peninsula and see what else it has to offer.

25. Ashikaga City

1 hour 30 minutes by train from Asakusa Station ¥ 2,050 (one way)

Ashikaga City in Tochigi Prefecture is one of those cities that exists out of most visitors’ realm of knowledge, but it shouldn’t be overlooked. The best time to visit is in spring, when the flower festivals at Ashikaga Flower Park are in full swing (see e.g. the Ashikaga Great Wisteria Festival ), but the park also puts on a great illumination show in winter. The city also has Ashikaga Gakkō, Japan’s first organized school that includes an idyllic Japanese garden.

For a full look at what to do and how to get there, see our day trip to Ashikaga City guide .

Watch our video for 5 of the top Tokyo day trips -->

First published in July 2017. Last updated in March 2024, by Alex Ziminski. All information is subject to change, including prices.

閱讀中文版本: 25個精選東京近郊一日遊

• Kamakura Station
• Great Buddha of Kamakura
• Enoshima Shrine
• Kawagoe Station
• Kawaguchiko Station
• Chiba Castle (Chiba City Folk Museum)
• Odawara Castle
• Kawasaki Daishi
• Tsujimura Botanical Gardens
• Fujiko F. Fujio Museum (Doraemon Museum)
• Japan Open-Air Folk House Museum (Nihon Minkaen)
• Chiba Shrine
• Hoki Museum
• Chiba City Museum of Art
• Chiba City Museum of Science
• Restaurants
• Odawara Fish Market Den
• Bullet train
• Hot springs
• Sightseeing

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• 10 Best Day Trips from Tokyo

Explore more with this list of epic ideas of the best day trips from Tokyo!

Tokyo is one of the largest megacities in the world and you will never be bored with what it offers. It doesn’t stop there, though. There are many places which are easily accessible from Tokyo that a lot of travelers miss before moving to other popular destinations such as Kyoto or Osaka. Here are some ideas of day trips from Tokyo to add to your bucket list.

1. Kamakura

Once the political capital of Japan, Kamakura is home to beautiful temples and shrines, where locals enjoy spending their weekends. It’s also famous for one of the most bustling beaches in Japan.

2. Yokohama

A magnificent port city with the second largest population in Japan. Find unique souvenirs at Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse and enjoy delicious cuisine at the biggest Chinatown in Japan.

3. Hitachi Seaside Park

The beautiful blue nemophila flowers reach their peak bloom from mid-April to early May, although the park offers amazings view of flowers in its immaculately maintained gardens throughout the year.

4. Arakurayama Sengen Park

If you want to take the perfect “iconic Japan” picture with Mt.Fuji, a beautiful pagoda, and cherry blossoms, visit this scenic park located near the Lake Kawaguchi in Yamanashi Prefecture.

5. Chichibu

Just an hour and a half from Tokyo by train, Chichibu is a great day trip destination to immerse yourself in nature. Enjoy a boat ride in Nagatoro river, or the breathtaking fields of pink mountain phlox, known as shibazakura in Japan.

With its scenic mountain views and a plenty of onsen hotsprings, Hakone is one of the most popular day trip destinations for Tokyoites looking to avoid the hustle and bustle. It is also one of the best places to enjoy autumn foliage in Japan.

A beautiful small city in the mountains with several UNESCO World Heritage sites. The Nikko Toshogu Shrine is a must-visit if you have time for a day trip from Tokyo.

8. Fuji-Q Highland

Located at the foot of Mt. Fuji, Fuji-Q Highland offers a wide range of experiences from scream-inducing roller coasters, to gentle attractions for children.

9. Mt. Nokogiri Hiking

If you are looking for a refreshing hiking experience near metropolitan Tokyo, Mt. Nokogiri could be a good option. Its easy access from Tokyo and the famous jagged cliff lookout point attracts many nature-seekers from neighbouring urban areas.

10. Kawagoe

Located less than an hour from Tokyo, here you are able to walk the streets of “Little Edo,” which are lined with historical buildings where you can enjoy great local foods and seasonal festivals.

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Tokyo Itinerary – 10 Days Tour with Kids in December (Winter Trip)

Welcome! Are you looking for Tokyo Itinerary to plan your trip?

Japan is one of our top favourite countries to visit due to its delicious food, culture, people, safe for kids, etc.

Tokyo is a fantastic city, and there are so many things to do here. E.g. Tokyo Skytree, Imperial Palace, Sensoji, Rainbow bridge, Odaiba, Disney Land, Shopping places like Shinjuku & Shibuya and refreshing parks like Ueno Park & Yoyogi Park. And the list can go on and on…

If you are travelling with kids, it will make things tougher when planning your itinerary. There are a lot of other itinerary guides for Tokyo, but most of them are not kids friendly.

For us, we are travelling in 2 adults plus 2 kids. We often visit 2-3 tourist spots per day.

We always plan for less walking distance of attractions and food. Most of the places are kids friendly while the adult can enjoy themselves.

It’s kind of “SLOW” type of itinerary.

Yes, we may miss out to a lot of places. But we are okay with it.

We do not rush from one spot to another after taking a few photos so that we can post on Facebook or Instagram.

If you are looking for a “compact” itinerary or visit as many places as possible, this may not be a useful reference.

Also, this is our real itinerary for our Tokyo trip and NOT simply compiling the attractions from various source and put into a single post. Those itineraries do provide a lot of useful information but may not be 100% accurate and practical to use in your actual trip.

Here is the summary of our itinerary over 10 days.

• Airport to Hakone – 2.5 days in Hakone
• Hakone to Tokyo – 4 days in Tokyo
• Tokyo to Yuzawa – 2.5 days in Yuzawa
• Yuzawa to Airport Hotel – 1 day in Narita

Here are some photos that were taken during our trip. Interested?

Flights to Tokyo

Okay. Firstly, how to get there?

There are many direct flights from Kuala Lumpur to Tokyo. It usually raging from RM 1,500++ (USD 400++). Ideally, we should either:

• Plan early and book the flight during the promotion period. But it often not applicable to the holiday season or school holiday.
• Again, plan early and book early. Even without promotion, you still can get a good price.
• Last minute booking using Skyscanner. Skyscanner search over 1000 airlines with the cheapest fare with various options.

Since our kids are studying primary school, option 1 is out. For us, we usually go for option 3 since we always don’t plan early > <

For long hour flight, which is more than 5-6 hours, we typically choose full-service airlines. For this trip, we decided Malaysia Airlines because they are using Airbus A380!

And we top up RM 160++ to choose the upper deck seat.

My recommendation is going for Malaysia Airlines if you have more budget! If not, check out Skyscanner or plan earlier.

Where to stay in Tokyo with kids or families?

Tokyo has many accommodation options from hotel and Airbnb. The cost is raging from RM500++ up to thousand.

Most of the hotel rooms are size less than 20 m 2 .

Travelling with 2 kids and carrying with big luggage? Good luck.

Airbnb is another option but often the price and not cheap. And most of the unit might be on the upper floors like 3F or 4F without lift. Again, if you are carrying big luggage with kids, think twice.

For us, the best accommodation for kids or family must be spacious and less walking distance to the train/subway station. We mainly use Agoda or Booking.com to book our accommodation.

Again… Plan and book early, especially if you are travelling on peak season or local holiday! You will get more choices and better price.

Internet connectivity in Japan.

I used to get pocket WIFI when reaching Japan.

For this trip, I am using Roaming Man, which cost RM 12 per day and connect up to 5 devices. You can pick up or drop off at KLIA/KLIA2. It’s cheaper and easier to pick up.

If you are foreigner, you can get pocket Wifi via KLooK at unlimited data and connect up to 14 devices. You can check the latest price here.

Transportation Around Tokyo

The best option to travel around Tokyo is by Trains or Subways. You can move around to almost any tiny place within Tokyo.

But you still need to walk quite a bit on and off.

E.g. We walked 800-900 meters just within the Shinjuku Station to get the right train to Disneyland.

Bullet train or Shinkansen is a good option if you are travelling far for day trips.

For us, we also rented a car for 2 days at Hakone as it will be more convenient to visit all the tourist spot.

I usually rent a car from Toyota Rent a Car. The rate is slightly higher, but they have a lot of drop off points. They often upgrade the car to a bigger and nicer car too.

Rent a car is easy and do not require any deposit. Just make sure you prepare the international driving permit (IDP) upon picking up your car.

I once forgot to bring my IDP in Okinawa trip. End up not able to rent any car at all.

Tokyo 10 days Itinerary + Hakone & Yuzawa

To get started, I first list all the places to go or things to do in Tokyo with kids.

Then, I use Google My Map to add all the destinations. By viewing all the destinations on a map, we can quickly group nearby places in one day.

Planning the kid’s friendly itinerary for Tokyo is challenging because the main transportation is either trains or Subways. So, we must plan the right station with the minimal walking distance when heading or back from our destinations. I use Google map a lot as it has the option to suggest the best route with minimum walking distance.

Firstly, we were heading down from Tokyo to south, Hakone for 2 days.

Hakone is one of the best places to experience the greeneries which include Gora Park, Botanical Garden, Open Air Museum (more on this later), Ropeway and cruise ride at Lake Ashionoko.

Then, we move back to Tokyo for 4 days.

As you might know, Disney Land and Disney Sea are must-visit places when you come with kids. So, there go 2 days from our plan.

We plan another day for the city tour which covers the Asakusa area, the famous Sensoji Temple, Asakusa Shrine and Nakamise shopping street and Tokyo Skytree.

Lastly, we move to the west area to Yuzawa, a famous place for ski and snow play, which can be reached within 1++ hour by the bullet train from Tokyo. It is a fantastic experience for us who grew up in the Tropicana weather.

Now, let’s dive in the detailed itinerary…

Day 1 – Tokyo Narita Airport, Shinjuku to Hakone

It was a busy day for us to move from Narita Airport all the way down to Hakone, the famous mountain town with a lot of hot spring resorts and natural tourist spots.

Highlights:

• Getting to Hakone from Tokyo Narita Airport.
• Hanging around Hakone Yumoto Station
• Where to stay in Hakone – Private onsen (hot spring) at Hotel Okada.

How to Get to Hakone From Tokyo Narita Airport

Generally, we can take the Tokaido Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Odawara station and change to a local train to Hakone Yumoto Station. Or we can take the Limited Express Romancecar at Shinjuku Station to Hakone Yumoto Station.

We pick the second option because we do not need to switch many trains with big luggage.

We landed at Tokyo Narita Airport at 7:15 am. We had a quick breakfast at the airport and took Airport Limousine Bus to Shinjuku Station.

The train/subway is not an option since we had a few big luggage.  For me, it is stressful to move 3 big luggage myself while still need to take care of the kids.

The bus is a better option for those who are travelling with kids. You can find more detail about the bus schedule here .

Next, we took the Limited Express Romancecar at Shinjuku Station to Hakone, Yumoto Station.

Hakone Free Pass

We also bought the 3 days Hakone Free pass. 2 days pass is available too. You can enjoy unlimited free transportation (Bus, Train & Ropeway) and some discount on the ticket entrance. Check out more about Hakone pass .

Where to buy Hakone free pass?

You can buy the Hakone free pass at the Odakyu Sightseeing Service Center at Shinjuku west station.

Check out the map below:

Guides to ride the Limited Express Romance car to Hakone

• You need to purchase a Freepass or regular ticket + additional fee (1090 yen) to ride on the express train.
• If you only purchase the Freepass or regular ticket, you still can reach Hakone but with the regular train.
• Regular train will take 120 mins (75 mins for express Romancecar) and don’t have proper seating.
• Find out more about train and fare here :
• You can book the express RomanceCar ticket here . You can choose the time and type of train.

For us, we chose the 60000 series MSE train as the timing suit us better. And, we had our lunch on the train.

Stopping by Yumoto Station

We arrived at Yumoto Station at 2:30 pm. It is a small & less crowded train station. It is freezing once we step out from the train and quickly rush into the Hakone café just beside the station exit .

There is a shopping street nearby the train station. We had a quick tea break at Hakone café and took a taxi to Hotel Okado.

There is bus service stop at most of the hotel there, but it is challenging for us with big luggage. You also need to take the long queue to get on the bus.

Taxi rate in Japan is costly for long distance travel. It is okay for for our case as it’s just a 2km ride.

Where to stay in Hakone?

We chose Hotel Okada to stay in Hakone because it has private Onsen beside the room. Most of the resorts have public Onsen. Honestly, we might not get used to unclothe and go in an Onsen with strangers.

For us, we booked via Agoda by search with 2 adults. But when we were checking in our room, we got charged an additional fee for the extra 2 kids, which is about extra 50% of the total room rate. This is expected as certain hotels have stringent rules. So, be prepared and accept it…lol.

This is also our first experience with a private onsen.

One word… Amazing!

The onsen is set at the balcony and cover with wooden wall & window. The outside temperature is freezing (< 10 C) but the water temperature is 38-40C. And we can’t go into the onsen immediately. So, it is freezing outside while preparing to get into the onsen. But once we got into the onsen, it was so relaxing and never wanted to get out again.

We rest and hang around the hotel area for the rest of the day as it’s almost tiring to death after travelling for the whole day. We take a traditional Japanese dinner at Hakonenomori Okada, which is just a few steps from our hotel. The food and price are okay.

Day 2 – Things to do in Hakone

After recharging for the whole day in the hotel, it’s time to get some sightseeing outside. We had planned a lot of tourist spots in Hakone. But as usual, we always miss some of them and won’t make it to all of them. It’s good to read on to avoid the same mistake we did.

Hoping around Yumoto Station Shopping Street

• Open Air Museum – Must-visit with kids
• Hakone Lake Ashi Pirate Ship – We miss the ship
• Hakone Ropeway – Our 10 mins stop at Owakudani

Late shopping at Gotemba Premium Outlet

• Things we plan but didn’t make it.

We had our breakfast at マイアミ (Maiami), a Western-Japanese fusion kind of café in Yumoto Shopping Street. We didn’t have many choices as most of the restaurants open at 11 am.

There is a lot of local souvenir stores, food and dessert selling in this street. It seems less commercialised compare those you can get in Tokyo.

We were also hanging around a pedestrian bridge near Haya River. This is a must-visit spot for everyone who comes to Hakone.

There are many free transportation, including train and bus cover under Hakone Freepass. But for us who travel with kids and not able to walk far, we chose to rent a car, which is more convenient. Toyota rent a car is always our first choice when coming to Japan.

We walk over the pedestrian bridge and take an “outdoor” lift (Yes, its located outside any building) to Hotel Yumoto Fujiya. Here is where we pick up our car.

Hakone Open Air Museum

We drove about 20 mins or 9 km from Yumoto town to this museum. If you take the train, you can stop at Chokokunomori station which is just a few minutes’ walks to the museum.

Don’t get confused with the “Museum” name. It has much more fun for kids compare to the other typical museum. I would say it is a more likely an outdoor park with individual indoor exhibition building.

There is a lot of cool and fun stuff for the kids. Curved space, Wood nets and symphonic sculpture are perfect for kids. There is also a café within the park.

Check out some of the photos here.

We spent close to 3 hours here… Our kids still showing blackface while leaving the park. This is where our schedule got started to overrun.

Quick Tips: If you are travelling around winter, make sure you bring more warm wear as it is pretty windy and cold here.

You can find out more at: https://www.hakone-oam.or.jp/

Hakone Pirate Ship, Sightseeing Cruise at Lake Ashi

Lake Ashi, a scenic lake is another must-visit spots if you come to Hakone.

You can ride the popular cruise (pirate ship) from Hakone Pirate Ship, Togentai Port to Hakone Sightseeing Cruise checkpoint. Then, stop by to visit a few small museums. If the weather is good, you can view the famous Mount Fuji on the cruise.

Unfortunately, we reach there quite late at about 3 pm.

And the cruise is closing as it is winter, which the operating hours are shorter compared to other time. So… We miss the ship!

Well, that is part of the game while travelling with kids.

We had our late lunch at Togendai View Restaurant and was looking at the last pirate ship departing away.

Hakone Ropeway – Owakudani

From Togendai, we head over to ride on the Hakone Ropeway to Owakudani. The same Ropeway can reach to the other side, Gora.

Unfortunately, the Ropeway from Owakudani to Sounzan station is closed during our visit. Sounzan station has another ropeway can lead to Gora.

This is the first time our kids ride the ropeway. They are scared and excited. The small one refuses to ride initially but being persuaded after agree to get her new toy if she willing to ride the ropeway.

The smell of sulfur is strong, and it’s very windy once we step from the station. It was drizzling and super cold. Kids were screaming because it was too cold and windy. We quickly snapped a few pictures and returned to Togendai.

I would suggest visiting this place in the morning to avoid the bad weather. The chances of raining in the afternoon are always higher compared to the morning.

Once we reached Togendai, it’s already 5 pm. The day was getting dark, and we couldn’t visit any other park or natural tourist spots. We decided to drive to Gotemba Premium Outlet, which is about 30 mins drive (18km) from Togendai.

But driving to there take us some time because it was raining and a lot of zig-zag roads.

It has more than 200 outlets, including a few nice café and restaurant. This is my wife’s favourite place where she can enjoy shopping at a big discount.

But honestly, this is one of the biggest premium outlets I had visited so far. The price is low, especially for the rare size clothing. Whether you are too thin or too fat, you can get a great discount here.

We shopped until all the outlets closed at 8 pm (winter time). FYI, the mall closed at 10 pm during the summer time.

Find out more at https://www.premiumoutlets.co.jp/en/gotemba/

Other attractions that we didn’t make it.

As usual, we miss out a few other attractions. Here are the famous tourist spots but not able to make it this round.

• Hakone Museum of Art
• Pola Museum
• Botanic Garden
• Hakone Aquarium
• Kamagatake Ropeway

If you are a food lover, check out these places:

• Tamura Ginkatsutei – Dinner/Lunch (Gora)
• Itoh Dining by NOBU – Lunch/Lunch (Gora)
• Chimoto Ekimaedori – Dessert
• Nisshin Tei Honten – Dinner/Lunch (Hotel)

Find out more food review here .

Day 3 – Hakone to Shinjuku

Everyone slept late today. The plan was to get back to Shinjuku and hang around the nearby shopping area.

Heading back to Shinjuku

• Shinjuku Prince Hotel – Spacious Twin Room 31 M 2
• Ikebukuro Shopping Area – Pokemon Center Mega Tokyo
• Dinner at Menya Musashi Ramen at Nishishinjuku

We return our rented car and grab a quick breakfast near Yumoto Station. Then, we take the reverse route on how we were getting here. For the return trip, we book the latest model of RomanceCar, 70000 series GSE. There are observation deck seats that provide an excellent view. Unfortunately, it is fully booked.  Again, plan earlier if you want this unique experience.

Shinjuku Prince Hotel

After checking multiple nearby hotels, we selected the Shinjuku Prince Hotel. The main reason is it has a spacious room at an affordable rate. It also well connected to Shinjuku Station via an underground tunnel.

We stay at twin room-sized at 31 M 2 . Most of the hotel in Tokyo is very small. This one just fit well for the traveller with kids.

Ikebukuro Shopping Area – Pokémon Center Mega Tokyo

After check-in the hotel and rest for a while, we went to Ikebukuro Shopping Area. Our kids have been asking for it since day one we reach Tokyo. Ikebukuro is a popular & crowded shopping area. We drop off from Ikebukuro station and walk about 10 mins to Pokémon Mega Center at Sunshine City Alpha.

As usual, kids will like this place as it offers extensive collections of Pokémon related toys and gift.

We also drop by a Snoopy Shop to pick up some small gift.

Menya Musashi Ramen

Lastly, we went back to Shinjuku and had our dinner at Menya Musashi near the Nishishinjuku area. Menya Musashi is one of the most favourite ramens for my kids in Malaysia. So, we went to try the Japanese version.

The noodle size is much thicker compared to Malaysia’s version. The place was also tiny and crowded. Taste is not too bad, but I like Malaysia’s version better.

Day 4 – DisneySea

Disney park (DisneySea & DisneyLand) is another must-visit attraction if you are travelling with kids.

We bought the 2 days ticket pass at one of the family mart convenient store. We tried to buy it online at the official site ( https://reserve.tokyodisneyresort.jp/en/sp/ticket/search/ ), but the site doesn’t accept our credit card ( We tried a few cards from a different international bank).

Getting the ticket online will be cheaper. The other alternative is Kkday or Klook. But you need to plan early and can’t get it at last minute.

https://www.kkday.com/en/product/19252

We chose to go to DisneySea first.

Getting to Disneysea by Subway

Most people will take the trains or subways to Disneysea/Disneyland. We took the subway from Shinjuku station. The entire journey took about 45 minutes. But there was a lot of long walking distance.

E.g. I walked about 800-900 meters just within Shinjuku station to go to the right subway platform. I don’t recommend if you are travelling with kids.

So, for the rest of the day, we took the more convenient bus. The entire journey took about 50++ minutes, which was about the same as the subway.

Find out more about getting to Disneyland by bus .

If you are travelling from Shinjuku, you need to take the bus at Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal .

Things to do in DisneySea with Young Children

Again, we followed some of the attractions as suggested by the official site: Disney Sea with Young Children .

Mermaid Lagoon is highly recommended.

Here are some photos were taken in DisneySea.

We took the bus to go back to Shinjuku. It is another bus station, Tokyodeizunishi near DisneySea main entrance. Bus ticket is first come first serve basis.

We took our dinner at NEWoMen food mall again as it’s the same building with the bus station.

Day 5 – Disneyland

Tokyo Disney Park is too big. You won’t be able to visit 2 parks on the same day.

But before heading to DisneyLand, I had an important mission.

I need to find a laundry shop to wash all the old clothes. It is impossible to bring 10 sets of clothes to wear for 4 persons.

Luckily, I managed to find one at about 700 meters away from our hotel, Laundromat Futaba .

The place is clean and operated by an old friendly auntie. Highly recommended if you are staying around here.

Getting to Disneyland by Bus

We chose to take the bus to Disneyland as it is less walking distance and not need to switch subways.

There is a specific bus schedule to Disney Park. Make sure you reach there earlier to buy the ticket as they only sell same day ticket. Check out the bus schedule from Shinjuku to Disneyland .

Things to do in Disneyland with Young Children

I won’t share so much detail here. You can find complete guidance at the Disney official website.

https://www.tokyodisneyresort.jp/en/tdl

Depends on how old your kids are, not all attraction for suitable for them.

For us, we follow many attractions for young children suggested by the site, Disneyland with young children .

It is considered low season during our visit. But it still very crowded and often wait up to 30 minutes to queue for one attraction.

We strongly suggest you check on the Disney crowd calendar to find out the best day to visit.

Here are some photos were taken in Disneyland.

And this is the weather at 4 pm.

We left around 7 pm and took a bus to back to Shinjuku. The bus terminal is just beside the main entrance of Disneyland, Tokyo Disneyland Bus Terminal West .

The Bus ticket is based on a first come, first serve basis. And you can’t buy the ticket in advance.

We reached Shinjuku Express Bus Terminal, Shinjuku Station around 8 pm and had our dinner at NEWoMan Food Mall. There are many choices here and mostly filled by young people or working adult.

Day 6 – Asakusa, Ginza & Odaiba

This is the day for a city tour.

Honestly, there are so many attractions and thing to do in Tokyo. It is not possible to do it all in one day. Thus, we only choose a few of them, which is kids friendly.

• Asakusa Area
• Ginza – Yamaha Music Head Office
• Odaiba – Legoland Discovery Center

The popular Asakusa Attractions

This is another must-visit attraction for the first-time visitor. There is a list of popular spots within this area including Kaminarimon (Kaminari Gate), Sensoji Temple, Asakusa Shrine, Sumida Park, Nakamise and Shin-Nakamise Shopping Street.

You can find out more about Asakusa attractions ( https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e3004.html ).

Tokyo Skytree is just on the other side of the riverbank. We didn’t go there as kids refuse to take the lift to go up to the tower.

Visiting Yamaha Music at Ginza

This is the 7 floor Yamaha music head office that located at Ginza. The main reason we went there is to buy some piano book & organ music which is hardly getting in Malaysia. It is large and full of different type of instruments and books.

There are also a lot of branded shops within the Ginza area. We didn’t spend much time here for long as we are rushing to meet friends in Odaiba.

Odaiba – Popular Attraction for Kids

Odaiba is another popular attraction for kids. We took the Yurikamome train from Shinbashi Station near Ginza to Odaiba-Kaihinkoen Station .

The train will ride on the Rainbow Bridge to the Odaiba area.

We reached Odaiba around 4 pm to meet our friends in Legoland Discovery Center. It is just a small indoor park, but the kids like it very much.

Odaiba can be your one-day tour destination as it still has so many other attractions as below:

• Nippon Television (NTV) Headquarters
• Odaiba Kaihin Koen
• Daiba 1-Chome Shotengai
• Fuji Television Headquarters
• National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation
• Telecom Center Station

We walked over to Teleport station and took the direct train back to Shinjuku station.

Day 7 – Shinjuku to Yuzawa – Ski and Snow Play

This is the day we were waiting for. Yuzawa is a small mountain town located in the west area of Japan. Gala Yuzawa resort is a popular ski and snow play places in Yuzawa. The kids will have their first snow play experience here.

• Getting to Yuzawa
• First snow experience

Yuzawa New Otani

• Dinner at Yasuyoshi, Yuzawa

Tokyo to Echigo Yuzawa

Echigo-Yuzawa can be reached by taking Joetsu Shinkansen from Tokyo within 75 mins. You can either ride the Joetsu Shinkansen  on Tokyo Station or Ueno Station.

You can take a day trip to a ski resort and back in the evening. But a day trip is very challenging if you are travelling with kids. Thus, we stayed 2 nights at Yuzawa so that we can have one full day in Gala Yuzawa resort.

We bought the JR Tokyo Wide Pass , which is valid for 3 consecutive days. It covers the Shinkansen fare and free unlimited right on the local train. It cost 10,000 yen for adult and 5,000 yen for children.

You can’t get it online and only able to buy in JR East Travel Center .

I bought the JR Tokyo Wide Pass at Shinjuku Station .

I couldn’t find the “New South Gate” center and only able to locate the “East Exit” center. Its located at the same building as the Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal.

You will need to bring password along in order to buy the Wide Pass as it is only valid for the foreigner. You can also pre-book the train & seat at the same center. Check out the timetable and type of train here .

In case you miss the train or want to change the time; you can always visit the JR counter to request the new seats.

After checked out from our hotel, we took JR train from Shinjuku Station to Ueno Station.

When the train reached, we had to move the luggage quickly and made sure the kids were following. This is always the challenging part while taking the train.

Same rules apply when we right the Joetsu Shinkansen in Ueno Station. The bullet train will stop the station for 60 seconds. Yes. 60 seconds!  So, we need to make sure 4 luggage + 2 kids were on the train within 60 seconds. Stress!!!

We took our lunch on the bullet train. The average speed of the train is about 230++km/hour… Not too bad as this Shinkansen was being used since the year 1982!

First Snow Experience

There was not much view on the train except building & paddy field under a hot sunny day.  After departed for about 1 hour, we started to get into a very long tunnel (called Daishimizu Tunnel), which took about 6-7 minutes or 22.20 KM long.

White snow is everywhere!

The feeling is just like the harry potter film where his train suddenly goes into a new magical world.

Again, please don’t laugh at us as this is the first time the kids see the real snow!

After drop-off from the train (again within 60 seconds), we wait for the hotel shuttle bus to Yuzawa New Otani. Kids started playing the snow in front of Echigo-Yuzawa station.

Why this hotel? This hotel provides a traditional room with futons, and the room is quite spacious.

During the daytime, the staff helped us kept all the futons. Once we back from dinner, they helped us to arrange all the futons nicely. The hotel is a bit old but very clean. Price is affordable compared to other newer hotel.

Dinner at Yasuyoshi

I found many good reviews in TripAdvisor and Google business page for this restaurant. It is just 5 minutes’ walk from our hotel.

We had a hotpot (aka steamboat for Chinese) here. That was the best time and place to enjoy the hotpot, delicious hot soup, fresh meat & veggies! The staff is friendly, and the price is okay.

Honestly, so far, I didn’t meet any rude staff or waiter in Japan. That’s the reason why we never get tired to visit Japan again and again.

Day 8 – Gala Yuzawa

There are 3 snow mountains, called the Big Moutain Yuzawa Snow Link in Yuzawa: –  Gala Yuzawa, Yuzawa Kogen and Ishiuchi Maruyama.

Gala Yuzawa is kids friendly and offers various activities as below:

• Skiing & Snowboarding
• Snowmobile Sleigh Tour
• Kanjiki Snow Fun Tour
• Snow Trekking
• Snow Tubing
• Sledging & snow play with “snow escalator”

Getting to Gala Yuzawa Ski Center

Sledging & snow playing.

We had our simple buffet breakfast at the hotel and get ready at the hotel lobby about 9 am to the free shuttle bus to Gala Yuzawa.

The free shuttle bus took us to Gala Yuzawa Snow Resort aka Gala Yuzawa Train Station. If you plan to have a day trip, you can choose the right train to reach this station without the need to transfer from Echigo-Yuzawa Station.

We paid the entrance fee and rented all the necessary equipment, including snow wear (jacket & pants), sledge and rubber boots at the Ski Center Cowabunga (resort’s main entrance). Gloves are not for rent. You can buy it at 1000 yen. Goggles are not necessary if you are not skiing or snowboarding.

There are many lockers and changing room there as well. Once we get ready everything, we took the ropeway to the Rest House (Cheers). This is where all the fun activities get started.

Skiing or snowboarding is not an option for us. So, we went to the snow enjoyment park for sledging and snow playing. There is a “snow escalator” that brings everyone to the higher part and sledge to the lower ground. Kids like it very much. Snow play or snowball fighting was another fun experience for us.

We had our lunch at the Canteen inside the Rest House. We tried to take the ropeway to The Bell of LOVE Observation Deck but no luck. You can only ride the ropeway if you are skiing or snowboarding.

We left the resort around 4 pm and back to our hotel.

We had our dinner at Hifumi Kappou restaurant. Taste is good. Recommended giving a try if you are staying nearby here.

There are also many other interesting places in Yuzawa but not able to make it this round.

Day 9 – Yuzawa to Narita

Snow started falling since early morning. Kids were excited and can’t wait to go out for fun.

After breakfast, we were heading to Echigo-Yuzawa Station and back to Tokyo, Hotel Nikko Narita.

Our next day flight is in the early morning. Thus, we need to stay nearby the airport.

There are a few local souvenir shops at Echigo-Yuzawa Station. We do some last-minute shopping here for some snack and food.

We took Joetsu Shinkansen back to Tokyo Station and had our lunch there. Then, we took the airport limousine bus to Narita Airport. There is a shuttle bus to bring us to the Hotel Nikko Narita.

After check-in the hotel around 5 pm, we took a taxi to Aeon Narita Mall for our dinner and some shopping. There is a free shuttle bus from the hotel to the mall, but we missed the scheduled time. The taxi fare cost us about 3,500 yen (USD30++) for a 7 km ride. Taxi is damn expensive in Japan!

Aeon Mall is one of our favourite shopping places because you can get a lot of local product at the local price. There is also a molly fantasy, children playground and arcade game center for young children.

We took the free shuttle bus back to our hotel around 9:30 pm.

Day 10 – Last Minute Shopping at Airport

Our flight was at 10 am. After check-in and pass through the immigration checks, we did some quick shopping at the tax-free airport shops.

That’s our last itinerary for this trip.

Home sweet home…

I hope this itinerary can give you some tips or guidance to plan your upcoming trip.

Again, this is a “SLOW” itinerary and may not fit for everyone.

If you are travelling with kids, this post might useful, especially come to accommodation and transportation planning.

And If you like to go for natural sightseeing with kids, Hakone and Yuzawa is a good choice that can be easily accessed from Tokyo.

Feel free to comment below if you have any question. I am glad to help!

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Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Truly Tokyo

A Tokyo Travel Guide

Best Day Trips From Tokyo

Take a day trip from Tokyo to check out superb temples and shrines in Nikko and Kamakura, gaze at the perfect cone of Mt Fuji, or even hop on the bullet train to Kyoto. Here, we introduce these famous and some not-so-famous day trip destinations from Tokyo.

Best Day Trips From Tokyo Overview

• Nikko is home to some of Japan's most colorful temples and shrines.
• Kamakura has a great collection of Zen temples and an impressive shrine.
• Mt Fuji is a good trip if you want to climb it or just lay eyes on the famous mountain.
• Hakone is a good day trip or overnight trip if you like art museums and hot springs.
• Kyoto is 2.5 hours from Tokyo by comfortable shinkansen (bullet train) so you can visit it in one long day (but we recommend staying at least one night).
• If you're travelling with children, Tokyo Disneyland is just minutes from downtown Tokyo. Other great theme parks within daytrip distance include Legoland Japan (Nagoya) and Universal Studios Japan (Osaka).
• For something different, you could try Enoshima Island, which is popular with Japanese but largely ignored by tourists.
• Finally, if you or your kids are a fan of Miyazaki’s great anime films, you shouldn’t miss the Ghibli Museum.

Check Hotel Availability

Destination, check-in date, check-out date.

About 115km/70m north of Tokyo, Nikko is the home of several grand and gaudy shrines and temples that serve as mausoleum and monuments to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the greatest of all Japanese Shoguns. While most temples and many shrines in Japan are rather austere, these structures here are shockingly bright and ornate. And the entire complex is located in a forest of towering pine trees. Check the Tobu Train Line website for details on direct express trains and special train/temple/shrine admission passes. See our detailed Nikko Day Trip Itinerary for a complete guide to how to best spend your time in Nikko.

• Travel time/cost from Tokyo: 1 hour 41minutes, Y1360
• How to get there: Tobu Line "Kegon" Limited Express from Asakusa
• Best time to go: All year round
• Highlights: Soaring forests, colorful temples and shrines, nearby ones.

About 42km/26m southwest of Tokyo, Kamakura is a pleasant little seaside town that has a nice cluster of interesting sights. The 11-meter-high Daibutsu (Great Buddha) is an awesome sight and well worth a visit. Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gu Shrine is a spacious and impressive Shinto shrine near the middle of town. And, scattered all around you'll find lovely little Zen temples. Kamakura is easy to visit from Tokyo and is a nice change of pace from crowded and bustling Tokyo.

• Travel time/cost from Tokyo: 55 minutes, Y920
• How to get there: JR Yokosuka Line from Tokyo Station or Shinagawa
• Highlights: Daibutsu (Great Buddha), Zen temples, impressive shrine
• Our Full Guide: Kamakura Day Trip Itinerary

About 100km/62m west of Tokyo, Mount Fuji is the iconic symbol of Japan. While it's sometimes visible from tall buildings in Tokyo (on really clear days), if you're like most people, you want to get a closer look at the mountain or perhaps even climb it. During the climbing season, direct buses run from Shinjuku to the Fifth Station on the shoulder of the mountain. The rest of the year, buses run to towns around the base of the mountain.

• Travel time/cost from Tokyo: 2 hours 30 minutes, Y2700
• How to get there: Direct bus from Shinjuku
• Best time to go: 1 July to 14 September to climb, the rest of the year to visit
• Highlights: An awesome volcanic cone, sunrise from the summit, lakes at the base
• Mt Fuji Guide: Climbing or Visiting Mount Fuji From Tokyo
• Area Guide: A Day Trip to the Mt. Fuji Area: Lake Kawaguchiko

About 82km/51m southwest of Tokyo, Hakone is a sprawling collection of tourist sites spread over a mountainside and down to a lake. Sights include art museums and onsen, and the chance of good views of Mt Fuji on clear days. It’s possible to visit as a day trip, but many people choose to stay overnight.

• Travel time/cost from Tokyo: 90 minutes, about Y2000 (depending on route and ticket)
• How to get there: Odakyu Line from Shinjuku Station
• Highlights: Art museums, onsen, Mt Fuji views
• Our Full Guide: Hakone Day Trip Itinerary

About 377km/234m west of Tokyo, Kyoto is the cultural capital of Japan and it is a must-see destination! It would be a real shame to come to Japan and not visit Kyoto, especially if you don't plan on returning for a while. While you should try to spend as long as possible in Kyoto, if you have limited time, you can actually visit Kyoto as a day trip from Tokyo. Sure, it will be a long day, but if you leave around 8am, you can do 6 hours of sightseeing in Kyoto and be back in Tokyo in time for a late dinner. And because the shinkansen (bullet trains) are so comfortable, it's not even that tiring.

• Travel time/cost from Tokyo: 2 hours 20 minutes, Y13,080 (see Tokyo-Kyoto Transport Page for full details)
• How to get there: Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo Station or Shinagawa
• Highlights: Temples, shrines, gardens, geisha, everything!
• Our Guide: InsideKyoto.com

Tokyo Disneyland

About 12km/7m west of Tokyo, Tokyo Disneyland is a must-see attraction for many families visiting Japan. It’s as good as any Disneyland anywhere, and you’ll find all the famous attractions you’d expect. And, right next door, you’ll find DisneySea, a marine-themed amusement park that deserves a full day to enjoy.

• Travel time/cost from Tokyo: about 25 minutes, Y480
• Highlights: Rides, characters, parades, fattening food!
• Our Tokyo Disneyland Guide: Tokyo Disneyland Guide
• Our DisneySea Guide: Tokyo DisneySea Guide

Legoland Japan and Maglev Museum

About 275km/170m southwest of Tokyo, Legoland Japan is located in the harbor area of Nagoya, which is just 1 hour and 40 minutes from Tokyo (you change to a local rail line for the journey from Nagoya Station down to Legoland). It’s a great attraction for younger kids. And, nearby, you’ll find the excellent SMMAGLEV and Railway Park, which is a world-class train museum. You can visit these as a daytrip from Tokyo if you get an early start. Otherwise, spend one night in Nagoya.

• Travel time/cost from Tokyo: 2 hours 15 minutes, Y10,710
• How to get there: Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo Station or Shinagawa, followed by the Aonami Line
• Highlights: Rides, Japan in Lego, train museum
• Legoland Japan Guide: Legoland Japan Guide
• Maglev Museum Guide: Nagoya’s SCMAGLEV and Railway Park: A Full Guide

Universal Studios Japan

About 410km/254m southwest of Tokyo, Universal Studios Japan is located on the waterfront of Osaka. It’s arguably the best theme park in Japan, especially since they built the wonderful Wizarding World of Harry Potter attraction. It's not really a day trip, but you could overnight there and return to Tokyo if you wished, or spend a night or two in Osaka to explore the city.

• Travel time/cost from Tokyo: 3 hours 10 minutes, Y13,620
• How to get there: Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo Station or Shinagawa to Osaka, then subway, then JR Osaka Loop Line and JR Yumesaki Line
• Highlights: Rides, shows, themed attractions, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter
• Our Guide: Universal Studios Japan Guide

Located to the southeast of Tokyo, the Izu Peninsula has all the elements for a great adventure – fantastic hiking trails, rugged cliffs, the deep blue of the Pacific Ocean. We recommend an overnight trip to Shimoda, a charming coastal town on the east side of the Izu peninsula. A compact little town with a ton of history and delicious seafood, Shimoda makes a great getaway from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo.

• Travel time / cost from Tokyo: 2 and a half hours to three hours, Y6390
• How to get there: Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo Station
• Our Guide: Shimoda Overnight Trip Itinerary

Enoshima Island

About 50km/31m southwest of Tokyo, the island of Enoshima is a small island connected to the mainland by a causeway. It’s been a tourist attraction for as long as there have been tourists in Japan. This means it’s rather overdeveloped and slightly tacky, but in the right mood, it can be a lot of fun. And, it can easily be combined with a trip to nearby Kamakura (see earlier on this page).

• Travel time/cost from Tokyo: about 2 hours and 30 minutes, Y810
• How to get there: Odakyu Line to Katase, then Enoshima Line
• Best time to go: All year round (best in good weather, though)
• Highlights: shrine, gardens, caves, beach, Mt Fuji views (on very clear days)
• Our Guide: Enoshima Island Day Trip Itinerary

Ghibli Museum (and Inokashira-koen Park)

About 18km/11m west of Tokyo in the suburb of Mitaka, the Ghibli Museum is a must for any fan of Hayao Miyazaki’s magical anime films like “My Neighbor Totoro” or “Spirited Away.” The museum is as magical as his films and adults will enjoy it as much as children. The museum is located in Inokashira-koen Park, which is a huge expanse of fields, forests and lakes that will come as a relief after a few days in the urban madness of Tokyo.

• Travel time/cost from Tokyo: about 50 minutes, Y600
• How to get there: JR Chuo Line then bus
• Highlights: Ghibli Museum, lovely park, lake
• Our Guide: Inokashira-koen Park and Ghibli Museum and How To Get Ghibli Museum Tickets

Shuzenji Onsen

About 150km/93m southeast of Tokyo in the Izu Peninsula, the Shuzenji Onsen is a charming hot spring resort with all the elements for a great adventure – fantastic hiking trails, rugged cliffs, the deep blue of the Pacific Ocean, and dozens of great little towns to explore. While it's theoretically doable as a day trip, it's far better to take a train out and stay overnight in one of the little towns on the peninsula.

• Travel time/cost from Tokyo: 2 hours and 30 minutes, Y4920
• How to get there: JR Tokyo Station to Mishima Station and Shuzenji Station then bus
• Best time to go: All year round (best in spring and autumn)
• Highlights: Shuzenji Onsen, fantastic hiking trails, rugged cliffs, great little towns to explore
• Our Guide: Shuzenji Onsen Overnight Trip Itinerary

Tokyo Vacation Checklist

• For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Tokyo guide
• Check Tokyo accommodation availability and pricing on Booking.com and Agoda.com - often you can book with no upfront payment and free cancellation
• Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Tokyo
• You can buy shinkansen (bullet train) tickets online from Klook - popular routes include Tokyo to Kyoto , Tokyo to Osaka and Tokyo to Hiroshima
• You can buy an eSim to activate in Japan or buy a Japan SIM card online for collection on arrival at Tokyo Narita or Haneda airports. Or rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
• See my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
• Compare airline flight prices and timings for the best Japan flight deals . Check my guides to arriving at Narita Airport and at Haneda Airport .
• If you're visiting more than one city, you might save money with a Japan Rail Pass – see if it's worth it for you
• A prepaid Welcome Suica card makes travelling around Tokyo much easier - here's how
• World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world
• Do you want help planning your trip? Chris Rowthorn and his team of Japan experts at Japan Travel Consulting can help

Tokyo District Map

• Imperial Palace Area
• Tokyo Station
• Shimbashi Shiodome Hamamatsucho Shinagawa
• Akihabara Kanda
• Roppongi Akasaka
• Harajuku Aoyama
• Ebisu Daikanyama Meguro

Disclosure: trulytokyo.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com and amazon.co.uk. World Nomads provides travel insurance for travellers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

One Day Trips from Tokyo in Winter: 5 Best Places to Visit near Tokyo

Best side trip destinations from Tokyo in winter

Looking for a side trip destinations from Tokyo in winter ? There are numbers of great tourist spots around Tokyo where you can have the phenomenal Japanese winter experience such as Onsen (hot spring), illumination events and snow activities (Ski and Snowboard)!

In this article, I would like to introduce the 5 best winter travel destinations where you can access from Tokyo easily. If you are looking for a little winter escape from the city, these side trip destinations are perfect getaways for you!

1. Takaragawa Onsen

Outdoor onsen is one of the best winter attractions in Japan. Nothing better than taking hot Onsen bath surrounded by beautiful nature covered in white snow! In northern part of Japan, there are numbers of great outdoor Onsen spots where you can enjoy with snow including the northern area of Kanto region such as Gunma and Tochigi.

One of the most recommended snow Onsen spots is Takaragawa Onsen (宝川温泉) in Minakami Onsen area, Gunma Prefecture. Takaragawa Onsen is an scenic outdoor bath with the spectacular view and the surrounded area is covered in white snow during winter. Accordingly, Takaragawa Onsen is especially popular among foreign visitors as it’s a mix bath where visitors can enter the bath with towels covering their bodies.

Map: http://bit.ly/2zyp0rl

2. Enoshima

Shonan area in Kanagawa Prefecture is widely known as a summer destination from Tokyo, however, there are a lot of things that we shouldn’t miss during winter. Enoshima (江の島) is a small touristy island near Kamakura, offering various tourist attractions through the year such as shrines, parks, caves, street food, shops, etc.

Samuel Cocking Garden is a botanical garden located at the top of the island, and the iconic tower, Sea Candle is a 60 m tall observatory where you can gaza the stunning view of Shonan area, Sagami Bay and Mt Fuji when the visibility is good. During winter, the light-up event “the Jewel of Shonan” is held at the garden and displays colourful illumination. It’s one of the most spectacular winter illuminations in Kanto area.

Map: http://bit.ly/2xEeIo4

Website: https://enoshima-seacandle.com/

3. Sagamiko Illumillion

Winter illuminations are definitely the biggest thing in winter in Japan, and numbers of illumination events are held across the country during winter. There are many beautiful illuminations you can enjoy within Tokyo city, but you should definitely go at least one of the big illumination events held at suburbs or outskirt areas.

  SAGAMIKO ILLUMILLION (相模湖イルミリオン) is is one of the largest illumination events in Japan featuring 6 million LED lights decorating the 40,000㎡ vast park colourfully. This long running illumination event is available from November to April in the following year.

Map: http://bit.ly/2NGD9LE

4. Fujiten Snow Resort

Winter sports like ski and snowboard are very popular in Japan, and there are numbers of world-class ski resorts across the country. Japanese ski resorts with the high-quality powder snow, scenic views and Onsen facilities attracts visitors from all around the world during the season.

The most famous ski resorts are located on the mountains of Hokkaido or Nagano, however, there are several ski resorts where you can access from Tokyo within a few hours. Fujiten Snow Resort (ふじてんスノーリゾート) is one of the best ski destinations where you can enjoy the magnificent view of Mt Fuji. It’s small and more suitable for beginners, but it’s a perfect ski destination for a day trip.

Map: http://bit.ly/2xI1Z3J

Website: http://www.fujiten.net/pc/en/

5. Jigokudani Monkey Park

The world famous Snow Monkeys can be found at Jigokudani Monkey Park (地獄谷野猿公苑) in Nagano Prefecture. It’s one of the most well-known iconic views of “Winter in Japan” and uniquely more popular among foreign visitors than Japanese.

In fact, the monkeys can be seen through the year, however, the iconic view of the monkeys bathing in the snow Onsen can be captured only during this time of the year. There are several Onsen spots in the surrounding area such as Shibu or Yudanaka, and it’s recommended to stay over for 1–2 nights along your visit, however, it is possible to visit this Jigokudani Onsen Park for a day trip from Tokyo travelling by Shinkansen (bullet train).

Map: http://bit.ly/2DHldf4

More one-day trip destinations from Tokyo!

▶ Best Day Trips from Tokyo

▶ One Day Trips from Tokyo in Spring ▶ One Day Trips from Tokyo in Summer ▶ One Day Trips from Tokyo in Autumn

How did you enjoy the list?? For more ideas about travelling in Japan in winter, please check out these articles listed below, too!

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▼Editor’s Picks▼

"The world is my oyster" A globetrotter 🌎 and hammock lover 🌞 who loves taking adventures to fuel wanderlust. Born and raised in Japan, I have spend almost a decade living and exploring countries across the world. Based on my travel experience, I'd love to share my knowledge and tips for travelling with my readers. I hope my stories help you plan your trip and have a great time in Japan 🌈

• Central Japan
• Things to Do

Experts Say Escape the Summer Heat and Spring Crowds by Visiting Japan In December

A ccording to the Japan National Tourism Organization, tourist visits reached an all-time high this year. Increasing steadily since January, they reached a new record in June. Almost one million more people came to the country in the first half of 2024 compared to the same period in 2019.

American traveler searches on  Priceline  placed Tokyo and Osaka at the top of its Most Popular International Destination List for 2024.  Virtuoso , whose network of global luxury travel agencies books $80 billion worth of trips a year, is seeing a 108% increase in Fall vacations to Japan this year.

“The surge in tourism to Japan has been remarkable. The cheapness of the yen vis-à-vis other currencies has played its part, but the increase is probably more due to the growing knowledge about Japan,” shares Paul Christie, CEO of  Walk Japan .

“When Japan first reopened after Covid closures, the demand was so high that availability was extremely limited, even when planning several months in advance. Some visitors had to reconsider their travel dates as a result,” adds  Keri Vita , Travel Advisor, LBAC Travel, a NEST affiliate.

If explorers don’t want to deal with the summer heat, battle spring cherry blossom or Golden Week crowds, or can only travel during school closures, December might be the perfect time to consider visiting Japan.

Is December a Good Time?

“When asked about the best time to visit destinations, my answer is often, ‘When do you have the most time?’ If a client is traveling a great distance or visiting a bucket-list destination that they may not get to return to, it’s important to consider whether it is better to have enough time to see and do as many things as they'd like to do rather than picking dates based on weather, pricing, or crowds,” says Vita. “If December is the most convenient time to visit Japan, travelers should do so without hesitation.”

For those who can’t stand high summer temperatures and extreme humidity, December’s pleasant 55-degree Tokyo days make exploring less strenuous. It’s also the driest month of the year, creating stunningly clear blue skies and epic sunsets.

“Morning and evening chills can be combated with a warming bowl of ramen or a soak in Japan's natural hot spring onsens,” states Sam Goold, Destination Consultant for Japan and Southeast Asia at  Red Savannah , an award-winning luxury travel company.

"I was in Japan for two and a half weeks in December, which was fantastic. Japan is a year-round destination, so there’s no bad time to go. December really seems to bring out the best of everything it offers,” proclaims Luke Stapylton-Smith, Head of Asia for  Unforgettable Travel Company . “We are highly encouraging clients to consider visiting Japan in December."

World Class Winter Sports

Japan is one of the world's top skiing and snowboarding destinations, known for its “japow,” a portmanteau combining “Japan” and “powder.” Northern cities and mountain towns start their ski season in December as cold winds blow over the Sea of Japan, producing significant snowfalls.

"Whether you're a ski novice or thrill-seeking powder hunter, Niseko, known as the Aspen of Asia, is unlike anywhere else in the world,” says Stephanie Chai, founder of  The Luxe Nomad . “Expect awe-inspiring landscapes, luxury to affordable accommodation, and Japan's unique après-ski scene, from onsens to casual izakaya joints and high-end kaiseki restaurants. While Niseko is becoming known to the  high net-worth  guest, it is still far more affordable than skiing in parts of America and Europe with daily lift pass starting at $50."

Celebrating Christmas

Christmas is a regular workday for residents, with some couples going out to an upscale dinner after work. Shops, attractions, restaurants, and transportation remain open on Dec. 24 and 25.

“Christmas is a festive time in Japan, a mix of Western traditions and Japanese interpretations. At Hoshino Resorts, we celebrate Christmas with fun events and decorations at our family-friendly RISONARE hotels, city-tourism OMO hotels, and free-spirited BEB hotels. Some of these include vegetable-inspired Christmas trees at RISONARE Nasu, Ramen bowl Christmas trees at OMO7 Asahikawa, and bicycle-powered Christmas trees at BEB5 Karuizawa,” shares Qiao Wang, unit director of  Hoshino Resorts ’ global marketing team.

“The traditional dinner meal for December 25th has become KFC. Yes, Kentucky Fried Chicken!” shares Jessica Klauzenberg,  Timbuktu  Asia Travel Specialist. “Pre-ordering KFC dinner is very common for Japanese people and is a way to bring the family together.”

“The Ao no Dokutsu in Tokyo’s Shibuya area consists of a long street lined with trees decked in blue lights, giving the illusion of walking through a blue cave. Azumino Park Illuminations is Nagano's largest illumination display with more than 700,000 twinkling lights and a musical score accompanying many of the displays,” outlines Vita. “The largest display in Japan is the Flower Park winter illumination, in Nagoya, which runs from October to June.”

Plan Carefully During New Year’s

The New Year is one of Japan’s most important holidays, and many businesses, restaurants, and attractions close for multiple days. Trains, flights, and hotels are crowded and expensive as locals travel home to family. Respectful visitors can join time-honored Japanese holiday traditions like “hatsumode” when visitors pour into shrines and temples and pray for happiness in the New Year.

“One of my best trips to Japan was going out all night from temple to shrine to temple in Tokyo on New Year's Eve. There is so much activity all night, and people are so friendly! I also did this another year in Kyoto,” shares 40-time Japan visitor and respected Japan itinerary planner  Marian Goldberg . “ The Kyoto Visitor's Guide , a free publication available at the train station and so many tourist spots, publishes a list of special light-ups, free performances, and events for the last few days of the year.”

“It's a big thing to climb to the highest point you can and watch the sunrise from New Year's Eve to New Year's Day. Lots of people take the cable car up to the top of Mt. Takao, the tallest mountain in Tokyo. Located in the Tama Region, it can be reached in one hour on the Keio line west from Shinjuku Station,” adds Goldberg.

Those looking to rest or visit with children can book a stay at a large hotel. They often have New Year's festivities on-site, such as games, ninja experiences, or calligraphy lessons. Naomi Mano, President and CEO of Luxury Travel Partner  Luxurique , recommends the New Otani Hotels, which have multiple locations nationwide.

Tips for Holiday Period Travel

December remains one of Japan’s quietest months, and international visits are rising. Experts recommend booking reservations far in advance, especially for end-of-month travel or regions with fewer holiday crowds.

For example, the Nasu Highlands is a world away from Tokyo's bustle and neon lights but only a 70-minute bullet train ride. The mountainous region is home to some of the country’s most famous hot springs, an Imperial Villa, and Hunter Mountain, which offers skiing, snowboarding, and kid’s play areas. Enjoy the region’s culinary delights, including cheese, craft beer, and premium Wagyu beef.

Disney and  Universal  theme parks remain open over the New Year, as many Japanese school and college semesters end and international families arrive for vacation. Purchase tickets in advance and prepare to wait longer than usual for  rides  and other park attractions.

“If you are interested in traveling to Japan during this period, look into booking an extended-stay executive apartment such as  Oakwood . International executives from all over the world who are stationed in Japan, especially Tokyo, go home to their countries during the Christmas-New Year's holiday. Those apartments are vacant, and you could probably get a one-week apartment stay for a good value,” advises Goldberg.

Here are worst, best times to hit the road Labor Day weekend

Traveling on Labor Day weekend? You might want to give yourself more time before hitting the road.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced that Labor Day this year could be the the busiest ever.

Costs of flights are down, and the price of car rentals and gas are cooling off, creating the perfect scenario for super-congested roads and airports.

When should you travel for Labor Day?

The afternoon and early evening hours of Aug. 29 and 30 will be the most congested, according to INRIX , a provider of transportation data and insight. Here are the worst and best times to hit the road:

Worst and best times to travel by car

Labor day traffic around new jersey.

• Northbound Garden State Parkway, leaving from the Jersey Shore: 2:15 p.m. Friday; 40% more traffic than last year is expected.
• Southbound Pennsylvania Turnpike, leaving from The Poconos: 8:30 a.m. Monday; 35% more traffic expected over last year.

Labor Day weekend road closures

• NJ 71 in Monmouth County: The right shoulder will be closed going northbound just south of Parker Road (West Long Branch) from Aug. 28 to 1 p.m. Sept. 4.
• Route 22 in Union County: Westbound left lane and shoulder will be closed from 9 p.m. Aug. 29 until 6 a.m. Sept. 30. The lane closure starts right after the Hibachi Steakhouse in Mountainside.
• The Port Authority of NY and NJ announced it is suspending nonemergency repair work at crossings between New York and New Jersey to accommodate higher traffic volume.

Gas prices in New Jersey

Currently the average price per gallon in New Jersey stands at $3.24 compared to $3.67 last year, according to AAA.

If you are planning to travel from New Jersey to a neighboring state, you might want to fill your tank here. The New Jersey average price per gallon is about 25 cents cheaper than gas in neighboring states.

These are the average gas prices per gallon around New Jersey:

• Monmouth, Ocean counties: $3.27
• Atlantic County: $3.19
• Cape May County: $3.43
• Burlington County: $3.18
• Camden County: $3.13
• Middlesex County: $3.23
• Hudson County: $3.29
• Warren County: $3.21
• Mercer County: $3.27

Labor Day weekend: Airport travel

The TSA says to expect longer wait times at airports, with 8.5% more passenger traffic than last year.

“People are traveling more than ever this summer and TSA along with our airline and airport partners stand ready to close the busiest summer travel period on record during this upcoming Labor Day weekend,” TSA Administrator David Pekoske said in a statement.

Domestic airfares are cheaper this holiday with international flights down about 8%, the agency said.

Give yourself extra time to avoid mishaps due to longer lines at TSA checkpoints.

Rental cars: Things to know

All rental car companies at Newark Liberty International Airport now operate out of the new consolidated rental car center that sits within the Parking A garage on levels 1 through 3. All rental transactions, including returns, take place at this new center. To get there, the facility is connected to the airport's terminals B and C via AirTrain, and to terminal A via a pedestrian bridge. 

Public Transit

From 12:01 a.m. Aug. 31 to 11:59 p.m. Sep. 1, Path trains between Newark-Penn Station and Journal Square will operate every 40 minutes in both directions due to track replacement and maintenance.

For more on NJ Transit's holiday schedule, visit https://www.njtransit.com/holiday-service-guide .