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Frequently asked questions about Tokyo
What top attractions are a must-see in Tokyo?
The must-see attractions in Tokyo are:
What are the best tours in Tokyo?
What are the best day trips and excursions from Tokyo?
The best day trips and excursions from Tokyo are:
Mount Fuji
What are the best tours to do in Tokyo with kids?
What are the best outdoor activities to do in Tokyo?
What are the best indoor activities in Tokyo for rainy days?
What are the most popular museums and exhibitions in Tokyo?
These are the most popular museums and exhibitions in Tokyo:
5 best day trips from Tokyo
1. Day trip to Nikko
For those wanting to get out of the city for some relaxation, Nikko is an excellent choice for a day trip. A popular place to visit for Japanese and international travelers alike, Nikko has several well-known features. A leisure destination, soak in one of the area’s many onsen (hot springs) while you admire the beautiful natural surroundings. Nikko is also home to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of the Futurasan shrine, Nikkō Tōshō-gū, and the Rinnō-ji temple complex.
How far is Nikko from Tokyo?
At just about 150 kilometers (93 miles) from Tokyo, it should take around two hours to get to Nikko by car or train, depending on your starting point and the time of day. Certain express trains can cut that time down to 90 minutes.
2. Day trip to Yokohama
A day trip from Tokyo to Yokohama is a wonderful introduction to one of the largest cities in Japan. This major port is a whirlwind of activity and energy, with an abundance of things to see and do. Travelers can explore one of the largest Chinatowns in the world, ride a Ferris wheel with sea and skyscraper views, or savor the filling food museums like the Ramen Museum and its cousin, the Cup Noodles Museum.
How far is Yokohama from Tokyo?
The 38-kilometer (23-mile) journey from Tokyo to Yokohama by car passes in a quick 40 minutes. By train, the trip can be anywhere from 25 minutes to over an hour, depending on your starting point and the type of train you take.
3. Day trip to Hakone
People head to Hakone for its natural splendor and the hot springs, which make it a calm and rejuvenating escape from the city. Travelers can spend the day lounging in the many onsen that are all around the town, like the Yunessun complex, or the more traditional Tenzan. The iconic views of Mount Fuji across Lake Ashi are unparalleled, and remain one of the top reasons people come to visit Hakone. Of course, there are plenty of other things to do, like the Hakone Open Air Museum, and the charming Amazake-chaya teahouse.
How far is Hakone from Tokyo?
By car, the 83 kilometers (51 miles) to Hakone can take between an hour and 90 minutes. The train ride lasts 85 minutes to two hours, depending on the type of train you choose.
4. Day trip to Mount Fuji
One of the most recognizable and beloved landmarks in Japan, Mount Fuji tops many people’s must-see list during a trip to Tokyo. An inspiration for artists and pilgrims alike, the tallest mountain in Japan welcomes over 250,000 visitors every year. The mountain is also home to many points of cultural interest like the Fujisan Hongū Sengen Taisha shrine, the Taiseki-ji Buddhist temple, and the stunning Shiraito Falls.
How far is Mount Fuji from Tokyo?
Sitting just about 100 kilometers (62 miles) south of Tokyo, on average Mount Fuji takes around two hours to reach by car or by bus. The train takes only slightly longer, at around two and a half hours.
5. Day trip to Kamakura
Kamakura is a small city with a big history, making it a favorite day trip amongst travelers from Tokyo. Once the seat of the shogunate, Kamakura was a 13th and 14th-century powerhouse and proceeded to become an important site for Buddhism and Shintoism. Today, the city’s history can still be experienced within its many attractions. See the peaceful bamboo grove of the Hokokuji temple, pay respects to the giant Buddha of Kotoku-in, or tour the impressive Tsurugaoka Hachimangū shrine.
How far is Kamakura from Tokyo?
Located about 56 kilometers (34 miles) away from Tokyo, Kamakura is easy to get to. Driving and most trains will usually take an hour, though some trains can take up to 90 minutes to reach their destination.
Tokyo day trip FAQ
What transportation options are best for my day trip?
• Tokyo day trips by train
Japan has one of the most efficient and well-connected rail networks in the world. There are several types of trains and tickets you can choose for your day trip, some being more efficient than others. Whether you decide to travel by bullet train or express train, plenty of day trip destinations from Tokyo are easily reachable by rail.
• Tokyo day trips by bus
There is a wonderful system of long-distance buses running all over Japan. The bus can get you to most points near and far. In some cases, the bus is an even faster and more affordable option than the train. Many tour companies operate by bus, and travel times tend to parallel those of a private vehicle.
• Tokyo day trips by car
With so many great public transportation options from Tokyo, driving isn’t necessary. Tolls, road work, and traffic can sometimes put a damper on car travel. However, driving allows maximum flexibility to explore on your own terms.
Should I take a guided tour for my day trip?
A guided tour is an outstanding way to make the most of your time. Booking a guided tour can help you plan ahead (for obstacles like transportation), secure your tickets, skip the line, or provide special experiences you couldn’t get on your own. As always, guided tours are one of the best ways to learn about the culture and history of your destination.
What should I pack for my day trip?
What to bring varies greatly depending on what you have planned and the time of year. In the winter you’ll want to bring warm clothes, while summer can be very warm and humid. If you’re planning on hiking, make sure to bring plenty of water. Many tours will already provide you with most of, if not everything you need. If hot springs are on the agenda, it might be smart to bring a change of clothes.
Top Attractions in Tokyo
- 11 Meiji Shrine
- 13 Odaiba
- 17 Sumida River
Things to Do in Tokyo
Other Sightseeing Options in Tokyo
Want to discover all there is to do in Tokyo? Click here for a full list.
What people are saying about Tokyo
Started at 8:30 and takes a couple of hours to get there, with a break stop. Make sure you book for a clear skies sunny day, it’s beautiful and we ended up stopping 4 times! At different viewing areas and a lovely village at the end. The guide was amazing and he gave us some good insight and then you go and explore the area yourself. Great day out! Highly recommend.
Absolutely amazing tour with so much information before actually seeing the sumo wrestling. It’s an exciting sport to watch. Having the English commentary was great too. Order the lunch, it was delicious.
The bus depart on time, we visited exactly the places they told us at the description of the tour. The places visited were amazing the only thing we could see Mt. Fuji because of the cloudy day.
Our guide Bruce was great! He was very knowledgable and patient with all our questions. Highly recommended for all your sumo needs!
Good driver, only the Sushi place he recommended for lunch is bad
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