The Best Day Trips from Tokyo by Train (That I’ve Actually Done)

This note was originally shared in my weekly newsletter, Letters from Japan (and LA) — a slow and personal space where I write about Japan, culture, and life between two homes. ?

Whenever I visit Tokyo, I always leave a day or two in my itinerary to take a few day trips outside the busy city. I’ve found that these little trips allow me to experience Japanese history and culture more fully.

These places are all doable as day trips — trust me, I’ve done them myself! And I have vlogs and guides that share my experience for each.

Here are my favorites! See which one matches your travel style. ?

Perfect Day Trips (about 1 hr each way)

• Kawagoe — a charming district known for its Edo Period architecture and legendary sweet potato street food
• Yokohama — a large port city with the biggest Chinatown in Japan, plus some surprisingly fun museums like the CupNoodle Museum and Ramen Museum
• Kamakura — a coastal city with a laid-back vibe and a retro train line that winds along the coast, stopping right at the main sightseeing spots

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Longer Day Trips (about 1.5–2 hrs each way)

• Nikko — a stunning escape for anyone who loves nature and Japanese history, with UNESCO World Heritage temples and shrines all within walking distance of each other
• Hakone — famous for its natural beauty and open-air museum, with some of the best chances to catch a clear view of Mount Fuji
• Lake Kawaguchi / Yamanashi Area — one of the stunning Fuji Five Lakes, sitting right at the base of Mount Fuji, for some of the closest and most breathtaking views of Fuji-san
• Karuizawa — a refined resort town with world-class ski resorts and ryokans, where slowing down feels like the whole point

Until next time

Remi

From Japan (and LA)

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