Best Day Trips from Tokyo

Empty Japan - (Empty.Japan)
Itinerary created by
Empty Japan
What you’ll do

Three-day plan designed for adventure seekers looking to escape the crowds and discover a mix of hidden gems and must-see spots beyond Tokyo.

Day 1 - Discover one of the most breathtaking spots in Japan, offering expansive views and an unforgettable experience. 

While the journey may take some time, this location stands out as one of the most remarkable places I've experienced in all of Japan, and it’s a day trip you won’t forget.

  • Travel time (from Tokyo Station): 2 hours by train OR 1 hour by car.

  • Includes a moderate 25 minute hike up stairs - comfortable footwear is recommended.

Day 2 - Step back in time and wander through streets that preserve the charm of Edo-era Japan. Enjoy a rich cultural experience, with traditional architecture and a vibrant atmosphere that transports you to another era.

  • Travel time (from Tokyo Station): 50 minutes by train OR 1 hour by car.

Day 3 - Get ready to explore an atmospheric town filled with scenic canals and traditional architecture. Discover historical sites and enjoy delicious local flavors, offering a glimpse into Japan's rich heritage.

  • Travel time (from Tokyo Station): 1 hour 40 minutes by shuttle bus OR 2 hours by train OR 1 hour and 20 minutes by car

And, as always, expect handpicked recommendations for the most delightful restaurants and cafes to savor local flavors throughout your journey.

  • All locations are accessible by public transport.

  • Travel times are approximate and may vary based on the time of departure and traffic conditions.

  • These day trips are flexible and can be experienced in any order.

  • If you plan to spend less than 3 days in Tokyo, choose the day trips that interest you the most.

Day Total

12.3 km (7.7 mi)

30 min

Total route too long to export to Google
1

About this day trip (Nokogiriyama)
Unlock to see location
About this day trip
Category
Sightseeing
Direction

5 m (0 mi)

2

How to get to Nokogiriyama
Unlock to see location
Read before your trip
Category
Public Transport
Est. Price
$
Transport Type
train
Direction

Up next, you'll have restaurant options to choose from (swipe right to see the other choices). I've personally tried all the options, and they're all absolutely fantastic.

3

Choose the option that fits you the best

Kanaya Diner
Unlock to see location
Seafood restaurant
Category
Restaurant
Est. Price
$$
Restaurant Type
seafood
Direction

245 m (0.2 mi)

1 min

4

Choose the option that fits you the best

あるぽるとカフェ / Aru poruto kafe
Unlock to see location
Cozy cafe
Category
Café
Est. Price
$$
Direction

1 km (0.6 mi)

2 min

5

Mt.Nokogiri Ropeway.
Unlock to see location
Scenic ropeway to Mt. Nokogiri
Category
Sightseeing
Est. Price
$
Direction

3.7 km (2.3 mi)

7 min

6

Mt. Nokogiri Ropeway Mountain Peak Sta.
Unlock to see location
Scenic ropeway ride
Category
Sightseeing
Est. Price
$
Direction

156 m (0.1 mi)

7

Nihonji Temple West Entrance/Exit Management Office.
Unlock to see location
Entry ticket purchase and information
Category
Sightseeing
Est. Price
$
Direction

940 m (0.6 mi)

2 min

8

Hyaku-Shaku Kannon
Unlock to see location
Kannon statue carved into the mountain
Category
Sightseeing
Direction

To reach the next location you'll need to walk up the stairs for about 5-10 minutes.

9

Ruri Lookout (Nihon-ji Temple)
Unlock to see location
Breathtaking viewpoint
Category
Sightseeing
Direction
10

Jigoku Nozoki (View of Hell)
Unlock to see location
Lookout with breathtaking views
Category
Sightseeing
Direction
11

!!! IMPORTANT !!!
Unlock to see location
READ CAREFULLY BEFORE THE NEXT ACTIVITY
Category
Sightseeing
Direction

240 m (0.1 mi)

1 min

12

Tuten kan
Unlock to see location
Unique tunnel with Nio guardian statues
Category
Sightseeing
Direction

44 m (0 mi)

13

Nihon-ji Daibutsu (The Great Buddha of Nihonji)
Unlock to see location
Massive stone-cut Buddha statue
Category
Sightseeing
Direction
14

How to get back to the upper ropeway station
Unlock to see location
VERY IMPORTANT
Category
Sightseeing
Direction

1.2 km (0.8 mi)

3 min

15

Nihonji Temple West Entrance/Exit Management Office (return)
Unlock to see location
Return to the Ropeway
Category
Sightseeing
Direction

156 m (0.1 mi)

16

Mt. Nokogiri Ropeway Mountain Peak Sta.
Unlock to see location
On the way back
Category
Sightseeing
Est. Price
$
Direction

4.1 km (2.6 mi)

7 min

17

Hama-Kanaya Station
Unlock to see location
Return to Tokyo from this station
Category
Sightseeing
Est. Price
$
Direction

Want to see more?

Simply sign up to access the free version of my travel guide, featuring things to do, itineraries, and travel tips.