7 Cities Near Tokyo To Visit For A Weekend Getaway
Are you looking for a weekend getaway to experience a unique culture and escape the hustle and bustle of Tokyo?
You don’t have to look far; Japan offers a variety of cities near Tokyo that are perfect for a weekend getaway.
From local cultural experiences to natural sights, each city provides a different take on the traditional Japanese experience.
This blog post will explore seven cities around Tokyo suitable for a short break.
We will cover each city’s highlights, attractions, and the best ways to get there.
So if you are looking for an exciting escape from the big city, these seven cities close to Tokyo are the perfect destinations.
1) Yokohama: Japan’s Second-Largest City
Yokohama is the perfect place to go if you’re looking for an adventure outside Tokyo.
It’s Japan’s second-largest city with a population of 3.6 million, and it’s located south of Tokyo in the Kantō region of the main island of Honshū. Yokohama is part of the Greater Tokyo Area and the capital of Kanagawa Prefecture.
There’s plenty to see and do in Yokohama, from exploring its vibrant Chinatown district to visiting the Cup Noodle Museum.
You can also check out some of Yokohama’s famous landmarks, such as the Minato Mirai 21 waterfront district and Landmark Tower.
And if you’re looking for a bit of nature, you can visit Mount Takao, just a short train ride away from the city.
2) Chiba: Where Tokyo Bay Meets Nature
Chiba is a prefecture located less than an hour away from the heart of Tokyo. While it’s known for being the gateway to Tokyo and home to Narita Airport, Chiba is much more than that.
Chiba is home to various agricultural and fishing villages with high populations, nature reserves that extend for miles, and multiple parks.
My preferred area of the city is Port Park, which provides an array of options, from pathways and meadows to tennis courts and a grilling section. It’s the ideal spot to enjoy an afternoon or weekend in nature.
3) Nikko: Postcard-Perfect Town Surrounded by Nature
As someone who loves nature and everything outdoors, Nikko was my perfect day trip.
It is located in the Tochigi Prefecture, only a 90-minute train ride from Tokyo, and surrounded by the Japanese Alps. The town is known for its forested hiking trails and breathtaking mountain lakes.
But what makes Nikko unique is Toshogu Shrine. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Japan’s most lavishly decorated shrines.
The main building is a masterpiece of woodcarving and gold leaf, and the grounds are full of beautiful gardens and waterfalls.
If you’re looking for a taste of traditional Japan, Nikko is worth a visit.
4) Kamakura: Ancient Temples & Modern Living
Situated around 50km south of the bustling capital, Kamakura is a coastal town famous for its ancient Buddhist and Shinto temples.
The city has been a spiritual center for centuries, and its temples date back to the 12th century. It’s such a great place to visit.
I love wandering through winding pathways, visiting different shrines, and soaking up the scenery.
Not only does Kamakura have plenty of ancient temples and cultural sites, but it also has some modern attractions such as cafes and stores.
So if you want to stay active while exploring the area, it’s easy to do so here!
The city also boasts some stunning beaches with gorgeous views of Mount Fuji in the distance; it’s an experience like no other.
5) Hakone: Spectacular Views of Mt. Fuji and Lakes
Next is Hakone, an excellent choice for those looking to view Mt. Fuji.
Sitting in the prefecture of Kanagawa and within the Mt. Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, this area offers gorgeous views of the iconic mountain.
Head to the Enoshima Sea Candle for a stunning overlook of Mt. Fuji and then see the Moto Hakone area in Lake Ashinoko for a classic view of its reflection on the lake’s surface.
Aside from the scenery, Hakone offers plenty of hot springs, Japanese gardens, and shrines.
With its natural beauty and many cultural attractions, it’s no wonder why Hakone is one of Tokyo’s most popular destinations for a day trip or weekend getaway.
6) Mitaka: Tokyo’s Urban Oasis
If you’re looking for a bit of adventure outside of Tokyo, Mitaka is an excellent option. It’s a city in the western Tokyo Metropolis with an estimated population of 190,403.
One of the most notable spots in Mitaka is the Takeshiba seaside complex, one of Japan’s largest indoor shopping malls and home to a 40-story office and commercial complex themed on nature and sustainability.
Aside from these attractions and many more, the city also has plenty of green spaces to enjoy.
The Nezu Museum, located in the center of the town, is an art museum with a beautiful garden.
Shinjuku Gyoen National Park offers a quiet side of Tokyo away from the hustle and bustle of the metropolis.
7) Enoshima
Enoshima is an ideal spot for a day trip if you want to venture out of Tokyo. This small island is off the Shōnan coast, just south of Tokyo.
It’s a popular destination for visitors who want to experience the beauty of Japan’s beaches and islands.
You can quickly get to Enoshima Island by taking the Enoshima Kamakura Free Pass, which will take around 90 minutes from Tokyo.
I recommend you take this option as it’s the cheapest but slowest route. Once you arrive, you’ll be able to find many attractions to explore, such as Benten Nakamise Dori Street, a shopping street filled with souvenirs and two famous sculptures that you will want to take advantage of.
You can explore the Enoshima Shrine, which dates back to the 7th century, and visit a nearby aquarium with rotating exhibits.
The beaches are also great for swimming (in the summer) or relaxing under the sun.
And if you’re a fan of seafood, there are plenty of restaurants nearby where you can indulge in some fresh lobster or crabs straight off the boat.
Is Tokyo near Kyoto?
Indeed, Tokyo and Kyoto are linked by the JR Tokaido Shinkansen. If you opt for the Hikari Shinkansen, this journey will take approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes. The distance between the two cities is around 285 miles (460km) when traveling by rail or road.
What are Japan’s closest countries?
Japan is an archipelago located in East Asia, with a long shoreline that stretches from the Sea of Japan in the northwest to the East China Sea and the Philippines Sea in the east.
It is surrounded by several neighboring countries on the mainland and the islands.
These countries include Russia to the north, North and South Korea, China and Taiwan to the west, and the Philippines and the Ryukyu Islands, which include Okinawa, to the south.
Japan also has close ties with the United States, which has held a military presence since the end of World War II.
The country’s location in the Pacific Rim has also allowed it to develop strong economic and cultural ties with numerous other countries, such as Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand.
How far apart are Tokyo and Osaka?
Tokyo and Osaka lie at approximately 396.45 km (246 miles). It takes about 5 hours to complete the journey by car. The aerial distance between the two cities is roughly 401 km (249 miles).
Conclusion
Tokyo is the place to be if you’re looking for a thrill. But if you’re looking for something more relaxed, many unique towns close to Tokyo are worth exploring.
With various places in the vicinity, you’re sure to locate a spot well-suited to your tastes. So why not get out there and start discovering?
