12 Best Day Trips From Tokyo For Every Season
Need a break from Tokyo's non-stop energy? Here’s how to escape the city without killing the vibe.
Tokyo is an endless rush of neon, konbinis, and late-night ramen, but even the most hyper-planned Japan trip needs a breather. Thankfully, Japan’s trains make escaping the city easy. From flower fields and temple towns to mountain views and beachy walks, these day trips deliver new vibes without the stress of overnight travel.
Here’s your ultimate guide to day trips from Tokyo, sorted by season and travel mood, complete with tips for who they’re best suited for.
Day trips from Tokyo during spring (March to May)
1. Hitachi Seaside Park, Ibaraki
Nemophila flowers are in bloom at Hitachi Seaside Park in Hitachinaka, Japan.
In spring, this coastal park becomes a massive carpet of baby blue nemophila flowers from late April to early May. The wide, open fields feel surreal, like you're walking through a fairytale. It’s a bit of a journey, but totally worth it for the dreamy visuals and peaceful picnic vibes.
Best for: Content creators, flower chasers, and anyone craving a soft spring escape
Travel time from Tokyo: About two hours
2. Minakami, Gunma
Mount Tanigawa in Minakami.
Although most tourists choose to visit Minakami in the summer for its perfect mix of high-adrenaline fun and tranquil relaxation – think water sports, mountain hiking trails and onsens – spring offers the same array of activities but without the crowds and humidity.
Imagine cruising down the Tone River on a whitewater raft or challenging yourself to a proper hike on Mount Tanigawa before unwinding for the day in a sleepy onsen.
Best for: Nature lovers, quiet escape seekers, and anyone who wants to detox from city noise
Travel time from Tokyo: About two hours
3. Mount Nokogiri, Chiba
Sunset on the cliff of Jigoku Nozoki (meaning “Peep into Hell”) jutting out over the void on a stunning panoramic vantage point in the Mount Nokogiri quarry.
Dramatic and peaceful, Mount Nokogiri is one of Chiba’s hidden gems. It features a giant cliffside Buddha and the famous “peek into hell” lookout point with expansive views of Tokyo Bay and the Boso Peninsula. From late winter to early spring, expect clear weather with perfect visibility – you’ll even be able to spot Mount Fuji and the Tokyo Skytree.
Best for: Off-the-beaten-path adventurers, solo travellers, and culture lovers
Travel time from Tokyo: About two hours – take the ferry from Kurihama Port to Kanaya Port
Day trips from Tokyo during summer (June to August)
4. Kamakura and Enoshima, Kanagawa
The Great Buddha in Kamakura.
This classic pairing is perfect for summer. Start your day in Kamakura’s shaded temples and hydrangea paths (early summer), then head to Enoshima for beach views, sea caves, and seafood snacks. It’s got the chill of a beach day with just enough adventure.
Best for: Soft girl summer types, culture lovers, and anyone craving a beach breeze
Travel time from Tokyo: About one hour
5. Nikko, Chiba
The view over Nikko and Lake Chuzenji.
With its UNESCO-listed shrines, sacred bridges, and misty forests, Nikko feels like a myth come to life. In June, the Japanese primrose blooms along Senjugahama Beach on Lake Chuzenji, dotting the promenade with shades of pink. Rafting and canyoning can also be done here on the Kinugawa River, promising classic summer fun.
Best for: Nature photographers and anyone seeking main character energy
Travel time from Tokyo: About two hours
6. Akiruno, Tokyo
Dip your feet in the Akigawa River.
Nestled in the Akigawa Valley is Akiruno, a quaint town with plenty to discover. There’s Otaki Falls, Otake Limestone Cave, as well as Ishibunebashi Bridge – a 96-metre suspension bridge that takes you across the Akigawa River. Especially in the summer, the woody landscape of the area provides some much-needed shelter from the heat.
A must-visit here is Kurochaya, a restaurant popular for its kakigori stand that’s open only in summer. Made from pure spring water in only two flavours, strawberry milk and azuki matcha milk, enjoy the seasonal treat on the restaurant’s terrace overlooking the Akigawa River.
Best for: Nature lovers or anyone seeking respite from the relentless Tokyo heat in the summer.
Travel time from Tokyo: About 90 minutes to two hours
Day trips from Tokyo during autumn (September to November)
7. Okutama, Tokyo
Immerse yourself in nature in Okutama.
This sleepy town is the most picturesque backdrop for the changing leaves. Expect vibrant autumn foliage around Lake Okutama, where the warm colours reflect off the lake to create the most dreamy vibe. You could even go fishing in the riverbed of Hikawa Valley, dip your feet in the Hatonosu Gorge, or take a walk to see the Three Tall Cedars of Hikawa – some of the tallest trees in the Tokyo area.
Best for: Zen seekers who wish to immerse themselves in abundant nature
Travel time from Tokyo: About two hours
8. Mount Takao, Tokyo
A hiker riding a cable car up Mount Takao, Hachioji. Japan.
An easy day hike at the outskirts of Tokyo prefecture, Mount Takao shines in late autumn when the trees turn fiery red and golden yellow. The trail is beginner-friendly, with food stalls and a mountaintop temple to explore. The views are stunning without needing full hiking gear.
Best for: First-time hikers, foliage fans, and anyone craving fresh mountain air
Travel time from Tokyo: About two hours
9. Karuizawa, Nagano
Shiraito Waterfall in Karuizawa.
Karuizawa is famed for being one of Japan’s most popular mountain resorts, with a good mix of history, shopping and outdoor activities. In autumn, the Usui Pass Observatory Platform provides sweeping views of the autumn foliage over Gunma prefecture and Mount Asama. At this time of year, it isn’t too chilly to cycle through the town either – visit the old town to pick up souvenirs or take a trip to Shiraito Waterfall, which is an impressive 70 meters long.
Best for: Travellers who want the best of both worlds – shopping and nature – outside of the bustling city.
Travel time from Tokyo: About an hour and a half
Day trips from Tokyo during winter (December to February)
10. Yokohama, Kanagawa
Night view from Osanbashi Yokohama International Passenger Terminal during Christmas season.
The Red Brick Warehouse’s European-style Christmas market brings winter charm with fairy lights, mulled wine, and cosy vibes. It's festive without the crowd crush, making it great for browsing or just people-watching with a warm drink.
Best for: Couples, casual groups, and anyone who wants holiday cheer without the stress
Travel time from Tokyo: About 30 minutes
11. Hakone, Kanagawa
Tourists take photographs of a pirate ship cruise sailing on Ashinoko Lake through the Torii of Peace at Hakone Shrine.
On clear winter days, Hakone delivers stunning views of Mount Fuji, plus all the chill vibes you need. Soak in an onsen, cruise across Lake Ashi on a pirate ship, and hop on the ropeway for misty mountaintop views.
Best for: Wellness seekers, quiet escape artists, and travellers craving scenic hot spring peace
Travel time from Tokyo: About one hour
12. Ikaho, Gunma
IKAHO sign and tourists at the beginning of the Stone Steps Street in Shibukawa Ikaho Onsen Town.
Ikaho Onsen is a sleepy hot spring town with retro stairways, traditional inns, and golden mineral baths. Spend your days relaxing in the onsens, exploring nearby Mount Haruna and experiencing local life in a traditional ryokan.
Best for: Nature lovers, quiet escape seekers, and anyone who wants to detox from city noise
Travel time from Tokyo: About two hours
Whether you're chasing cherry blossoms, escaping the summer heat, soaking in autumn colours, or basking in winter lights, there’s a perfect day trip from Tokyo for every season and every vibe. With Japan’s seamless train system and these handpicked spots just a short ride away, you don’t need to travel far to experience something completely different. So plan smart, pack light, and let your Tokyo adventure breathe with a side trip (or three) that feels just right for the season.