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.

1

About this day trip (Nokogiriyama)
About this day trip (Nokogiriyama)
About this day trip
Category
Sightseeing

5 m (0 mi)

2

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

427 m (0.3 mi)

2 min

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
Kanaya Diner
Seafood restaurant
Category
Restaurant
Est. Price
$$
Restaurant Type
seafood
FUNAOSA
FUNAOSA
Sushi and seafood restaurant
Category
Restaurant
Est. Price
$$
Restaurant Type
seafood

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
あるぽるとカフェ / Aru poruto kafe
Cozy cafe
Category
Café
Est. Price
$$
Cafe Restaurant La Mer Blueue
Cafe Restaurant La Mer Blueue
Relaxed dining with seaside view
Category
Restaurant
Est. Price
$$
Restaurant Type
Any

1 km (0.6 mi)

2 min

5

Mt.Nokogiri Ropeway.
Mt.Nokogiri Ropeway.
Scenic ropeway to Mt. Nokogiri
Category
Sightseeing
Est. Price
$

3.7 km (2.3 mi)

7 min

6

Mt. Nokogiri Ropeway Mountain Peak Sta.
Mt. Nokogiri Ropeway Mountain Peak Sta.
Scenic ropeway ride
Category
Sightseeing
Est. Price
$

156 m (0.1 mi)

7

Nihonji Temple West Entrance/Exit Management Office.
Nihonji Temple West Entrance/Exit Management Office.
Entry ticket purchase and information
Category
Sightseeing
Est. Price
$

940 m (0.6 mi)

2 min

8

Hyaku-Shaku Kannon
Hyaku-Shaku Kannon
Kannon statue carved into the mountain
Category
Sightseeing

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

9

Ruri Lookout (Nihon-ji Temple)
Ruri Lookout (Nihon-ji Temple)
Breathtaking viewpoint
Category
Sightseeing
10

Jigoku Nozoki (View of Hell)
Jigoku Nozoki (View of Hell)
Lookout with breathtaking views
Category
Sightseeing
11

!!! IMPORTANT !!!
!!! IMPORTANT !!!
READ CAREFULLY BEFORE THE NEXT ACTIVITY
Category
Sightseeing

240 m (0.1 mi)

1 min

12

Tuten kan
Tuten kan
Unique tunnel with Nio guardian statues
Category
Sightseeing

44 m (0 mi)

13

Nihon-ji Daibutsu (The Great Buddha of Nihonji)
Nihon-ji Daibutsu (The Great Buddha of Nihonji)
Massive stone-cut Buddha statue
Category
Sightseeing
14

How to get back to the upper ropeway station
How to get back to the upper ropeway station
VERY IMPORTANT
Category
Sightseeing

1.2 km (0.8 mi)

3 min

15

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

156 m (0.1 mi)

16

Mt. Nokogiri Ropeway Mountain Peak Sta.
Mt. Nokogiri Ropeway Mountain Peak Sta.
On the way back
Category
Sightseeing
Est. Price
$

4.1 km (2.6 mi)

7 min

17

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

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