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Tokyo day trips for fresh air, hiking, forest bathing and quiet & a feature section on Nikko

The world-famous hear no evil, speak no evil, see no evil monkey carving of Nikko

This post is all about getting out of Tokyo for the day or all together. I have advised more than a few Japan private tour clients on how to skip Tokyo altogether despite landing at Narita International or Haneda International. If your flight arrives in the morning you can be on the edges of Tokyo in incredibly green, serene places in less than 3 hours. Most North Americans touch down around 16:00, and can be stroll on a beach by 19:00, no problem. The east side of Chiba Prefecture faces the Pacific Ocean and offers sand-blasted patina on buildings and relics as well as an active surfing culture. Narita International is in the NW corner of Chiba Prefecture. And Haneda International is connected to the south coast of Chiba Prefecture by regular ferry services. Either way, your arrival in Japan can begin with an ancient beach setting sprinkled with surfing culture.

Remember you have many options for quiet and freshness on the edges of metropolitan Tokyo. Some are only an hour away. Others require two hours, but the impact is worth it. The bullet train out of Tokyo can take you northeast (Tochigi), west (Nagoya) or north (Nagano). So, getting to the edges of metropolitan Tokyo or just a bit further off the beaten track is much easier than you think. The benefits of these options include lots of oxygen-emitting tree leaves & plants, and fresh water (and almost empty ocean coastlines). Green foothills and low mountains (nearly all below 2,000 meters) flank the Kanto plain (Tokyo) to the south and west. Hiking and walking trail networks trace the valleys and ridge lines. Timing tip: Bear in mind that weekdays are best for the edges of Tokyo, as they are very quiet. On weekends and holidays expect moderately crowded trails and a fair number of people about even if you are not hiking; therefore, try to get out early and return early.

Also bear in mind that Japanese hikers have their own idiosyncrasies, which is always interesting to observe but not judge. Since Matsuo Basho's genius haiku days, the Japanese have learned to appreciate the great outdoors, which was also massively reinforced by European and American culture from the 1890s onward. Don't be surprised to see women wearing heels or sandals in places where outdoor shoes are really a must. And then there are the geared-up hikers, mostly retired or almost retired, who sport similar Gore-Tex outfits, argyle socks, gaiters, heavy boots, and a sweat absorbing towel around their necks. Some Japanese hikers carry bells (said to be good for warning off bears) or small radios at low volume.

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Content by Ian Martin Ropke, owner of Your Japan Private Tours (est. 1990). I have been planning, designing, and making custom Japan private tours on all five Japanese islands since the early 1990s. I work closely with Japan private tour clients and have worked for all kinds of families, companies, and individuals since 1990. Clients find me mostly via organic search, and I advertise my custom Japan private tours & travel services on www.japan-guide.com, which has the best all-Japan English content & maps in Japan! If you are going to Japan and you understand the advantages of private travel, consider my services for your next trip. And thank you for reading my content. I, Ian Martin Ropke (unique on Google Search), am also a serious nonfiction and fiction writer, a startup founder (NexussPlus.com), and a spiritual wood sculptor. Learn more!

A selection of Tokyo day trips for nature, water, and quiet

Kurkku Fields, Chiba prefecture: Sustainability, art, eco-friendly farms and the rolling Japanese countryside hills are all part of the Kurkku Fields experience. Kurkku Fields is a 30-hectare (74-acre) sustainable paradise. Here you can learn about farming, raw nature, and eco-friendly energy. And there's a great farm-to-table restaurant, Kurkku Fields Dining, where everything on the menu is made with natural, local ingredients. Kurkku Fields also has culture in the form of art galleries featuring global artists. The best way to get to Kurkku Fields is by highway bus from Tokyo Station.

Mt Jinba, Tokyo & Kanagawa prefectures: Looking for a refreshing hiking adventure away from the crowds? Head to Mt Jinba, straddling the scenic border of western Tokyo and Kanagawa! This mountain is a dream for experienced hikers, standing taller than Mt Takao at 857 meters and boasting a fantastic mix of trails that promise both challenge and variety. For those craving a real workout, why not kick things up a notch? Start your trek at Mt Takao, branch off toward Mt Jinba, and soak up breathtaking views of Mt Fuji-plus snap a fun photo with the quirky horse statue at the summit. After conquering the peak, treat yourself to delicious soba noodles and a cold beer-you’ve earned it! Navigating is a breeze, with well-marked paths and plenty of English signage. Getting there is simple: from Shinjuku Station, hop on the Keio or Chuo line to Takao Station, then catch a bus to Jinba Kogenshita and ride it to the final stop. Adventure awaits!

Karuizawa, Nagano prefecture: Nestled at the foot of the stunning Mount Asama, Karuizawa shines as Honshu’s chic playground, where fresh mountain air meets cosmopolitan flair. This lively resort town is the go-to getaway for Tokyo’s stylish set, many of whom have crafted dreamy second homes amid the pines. Dive right into the excitement in old-town Karuizawa Ginza, where you’ll discover bustling stalls, inviting cafés, and traditional shops overflowing with irresistible local treats-think homemade jams and golden honey, perfect for a sweet snack as you stroll. If shopping is your passion, you’re in luck: the Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza, just a stone’s throw from the train station, is a retail wonderland. With more than 200 stores set among beautifully manicured gardens, it’s an ideal spot for a family outing or a day of deal-hunting bliss. When it’s time to relax, let your cares drift away at the open-air Tombo-no-yu bath house, where soothing waters and mountain views promise pure serenity. As evening falls, make your way to Harunire Terrace and raise a glass of crisp, locally brewed Yona Yona ale to a day well spent. Getting here is a breeze-hop on the speedy Hokuriku Shinkansen, and you’ll be whisked from Tokyo to Karuizawa in just over an hour. Karuizawa is the ultimate blend of relaxation, adventure, and a dash of luxury-just waiting for you to jump in and make unforgettable memories!

Sayama Hills, Saitama prefecture: Renowned for inspiring Hayao Miyazaki and the film 'My Neighbour Totoro', Sayama Hills, also known as Totoro no Mori, offers a refreshing escape just outside Greater Tokyo. Embrace your inner Satsuki and Mei by bringing a bento lunch to explore the 3,500 hectares of forest, which is home to over 1,200 species of flora and fauna and features 19 hiking trails. Make sure to visit Kurosuke’s House (open Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday from 10am to 3pm) – the visitor center – to obtain maps and discover more about the nature reserve and its impact on Studio Ghibli and Totoro. While you may not encounter a giant tanuki or ride a cat bus (for that, a visit to the Ghibli Museum is necessary), the pristine air and tranquil forest will undoubtedly evoke a sense of childlike wonder during your visit. To reach this destination, take the Ikebukuro line from Ikebukuro Station to Nishi-Tokorozawa Station, then transfer to the Sayama line to Seibu Kyujo-Mae Station. The forest is a 20-minute walk from Seibu Kyujo-Mae Station.

Katsunuma, Yamanashi prefecture: While Japan is primarily recognized for its sake, it has been crafting exceptional wines from locally-sourced grapes since the 1800s. The Katsunuma area in Yamanashi prefecture boasts 31 wineries, collectively producing approximately 30 percent of Japan's wine. Many of these establishments provide tasting experiences, winemaking classes, and guided tours. You can immerse yourself in this experience at Budo no Oka (Grape Hill), where you can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding vineyards and the Japanese Southern Alps to the west, as Yamanashi is also the home of Mount Fuji, all while sampling over 200 different wine varieties. In addition to wine tastings, visitors can indulge in a fantastic barbecue restaurant and an open-air hot spring. Katsunuma is accessible in about 90 minutes via the JR Chuo line Limited Express Azusa or Kaiji from Tokyo’s Shinjuku Station to Katsunuma-Budokyo Station.

Mount Takao, Hachioji City: The popular hiking location is part of the Meiji no Mori Takao Quasi-National Park: The close proximity of Mount Takao to Tokyo results in large crowds during weekends and national holidays, which can also enhance the experience if you like people watching. It is advisable to arrive early and depart promptly, as most Japanese visitors tend to return home from weekend trips between 16:00 and 16:30. The area offers a variety of attractions including temples, shrines, tea houses, soba restaurants, and a zoo, ensuring enjoyment for the entire family. There are multiple ways to reach the summit—via funicular, chairlift, or six distinct hiking trails, each taking approximately 90 minutes from bottom to top—allowing you to tailor your ascent based on your preferences, energy levels, and group dynamics. Just outside the Takaosanguchi train station, a large map displays the various routes leading up the mountain. Generally, the hike is a pleasant uphill walk-through forests, alongside streams, and across temple grounds. At the summit, visitors can find a center, noodle shops, vending machines, and many school children. On clear days, one can enjoy a view of Mt. Fuji in one direction, while in another, the remnants of Hachioji Castle can be seen (accessible via a separate trail from a different starting point). In yet another direction, the sprawling cityscape from Chofu to Chiba unfolds like a patchwork quilt 600 meters below. Upon returning to the base, numerous soba shops entice visitors with their handmade offerings. Alternatively, one may choose to experience the Edo-Period charm of one of the three delightful Ukai restaurants, located a short bus ride from Takaosanguchi station (Ukai Toriyama, 0426-61-0739). To reach Mount Takao, take the Keio line towards Takaosanguchi from Shinjuku Station to Takaosanguchi Station.

Tanzawa-Oyama Quasi-National Park, Kanagawa prefecture: This expansive national park is located approximately one hour southwest of Shinjuku Station, accessible via the Hakone-bound Odakyu line. The region features several peaks exceeding 1000 meters, along with streams, mixed hardwood forests, a reservoir, camping sites, mountain lodges, and numerous onsen hot springs. The relatively open terrain is suitable for less experienced hikers, providing stunning views of the nearby Hakone, Mt. Fuji, and the ocean. A funicular transports hikers partway up Oyama (1252m), a revered and popular mountain, where they can explore several hillside temples and shrines. This destination is a favored day trip, offering plenty of opportunities for souvenir shopping and relaxing in teahouses. Beyond Oyama, the vastness of Tanzawa presents numerous options for extended day hikes and overnight excursions. Indeed, the sheer size of Tanzawa has led to rumors of bears inhabiting certain remote areas of its backcountry. To reach the park, take the Odakyu line from Shinjuku Station towards Odawara, disembark at Isehara Station, and then catch a bus from just outside the station to the base of the mountain.

Okutama, west side of Tokyo prefecture: Located to the west-northwest of Tokyo, Okutama is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours from Shinjuku. The term Okutama broadly encompasses the extensive region surrounding the Akikawa and Tamagawa Rivers, situated near the western boundary of Tokyo. This area features deep valleys accessible via distinct train lines: the Itsukaichi line and the Ome line. The Ome line, which is the more comprehensive of the two, terminates at Okutama station, serving as a primary access point to Chichibu-Tama National Park. Nestled high in the steep mountains, Lake Okutama-ko supplies water and electricity to Tokyo. Below the dam, the Tamagawa River flows into the rugged riverbed of the Mitake Gorge, a favored spot for picnicking, kayaking, or simply enjoying the water. The tree-lined banks ascend to a verdant plain dotted with handmade soba shops, sake breweries, and small farms, all embraced by 1000-meter peaks. Mitake-san, standing at 940 meters, is a popular destination for day hikes and features a cable car (referred to as a ropeway in Japanese) that nearly reaches the summit (JY560 one way). The ancient Mitake Shrine, which is over 1200 years old, along with various shops, welcomes visitors not far from the cable car's terminus. Mitake station is the nearest station to the cable car terminal. The Mitake Information Center, located near Mitake station (open Tuesday to Sunday from 9 AM to 4:30 PM, phone: 0428-78-8836), offers additional event information, including details about the sunrise festival on May 8, as well as general information. At 2018 meters, Kumotori-yama, known as the 'Cloud Catcher Mountain,' is the highest point in Tokyo and marks its western border with Yamanashi and Saitama Prefectures. This mountain is a highlight of a two-day hike that traverses the National Park between Okutama and Chichibu, which is elaborated upon in the guidebook 'Hiking in Japan,' referenced below. Okutama is abundant with various outdoor activities such as caving, rock climbing, and fishing. The Okutama Visitor Center, located at Okutama station, provides further information about the entire region (open Tuesday to Sunday from 9 AM to 4:30 PM, phone: 0428-83-2037). To reach Okutama, take the JR Chuo line to Tachikawa (30-40 minutes), then transfer to the JR Ome line heading to Okutama (approximately 70 minutes). The JR Itsukaichi line branches off from the Ome line at Haijima station, which is several stops before Ome station. There are also a few special rapid trains available.

Misaki and Jogashima Island, Miura Peninsula, Kanagawa prefecture: If you are a fan of maguro (tuna), then Misaki is a destination you will appreciate. This fishing town is renowned for its exceptional tuna catches, ensuring that any dish you choose will be of the highest quality. Additionally, Misaki boasts a prominent fish market. Located near Misaki Harbor is Jogashima Island, which can be reached by either a bridge or a brief boat ride. In contrast to the tourist-centric Enoshima Island, known for its caves and temples, Jogashima offers a more tranquil escape. The island, which is sparsely populated, features several outstanding hiking trails. The most picturesque of these trails will guide you past well-maintained lighthouses and along beaches composed of volcanic rock. It would indeed be regrettable to visit Misaki without sampling its renowned tuna. While Misaki is primarily celebrated for its tuna, being a fishing village, the quality of all its seafood is exceptional. From Tokyo, the journey to Misakiguchi Station takes approximately 90 minutes. Upon exiting the station, you can take a taxi or the NR 2 Bus to Misaki Port, which takes about 18 minutes.

Nokogiriyama mountain, Chiba prefecture: While Chiba Prefecture is renowned for Disneyland, consider exploring the authentic cultural gem of Nokogiriyama instead. However, do not miss the opportunity to visit Disneyland during your trip. Be sure to purchase your day pass in advance. Nokogiriyama is home to the first Buddhist temple established over 1300 years ago. The Diabetsu (Buddha) statue, standing at 31.05 meters (101.8 feet), ranks among the tallest Buddha statues in Japan. Notably, this statue was intricately carved into the mountain in 1783. As the Buddha of healing, it features a serene expression and holds a medicine bowl. A visit to Nokogiriyama offers a blend of spiritual pilgrimage and adventure reminiscent of Indiana Jones. My personal experience at Nokogiriyama, including an encounter with Chiba’s Great Stone Buddha, is detailed in my writings. The mountain's walking paths are adorned with stone figures of Takai Arhats (enlightened disciples), although many have suffered damage over time and due to natural elements. Some of the destruction, particularly beheadings, resulted from anti-Buddhist sentiments during the Meiji Restoration. If hiking up a 300-meter mountain does not appeal to you, a cable car ride from the base to the summit is available for ¥500. Please note that even with the cable car, visitors must navigate steep stairs to reach the most popular viewpoints. For those traveling from Tokyo, the most efficient route is to take a train to Keikyu-Kurihama, then walk a short distance to Kurihama Harbor to board a 40-minute ferry to Chiba. The ferries operate frequently, are impeccably clean, and provide an enjoyable way to traverse Tokyo Bay.

Mashiko pottery & nature town, Tochigi prefecture: Mashiko is famous for crafts and made world famous by Shoji Hamada (formerly a doctor). Hamada is one of Japan's most celebrated ceramic artists of the first half of the 20th century. He was also a leading member of Japan Mingei Folkcraft movement along with Bernard Leach of Cornwall, England. But Mashiko is also a great place to hike out from either on arrival or in the afternoon. Tochigi Prefecture's stunning mature deciduous forests are a sight to behold! And more fresh air and quaint quiet than you can imagine! Mashiko ceramic ware experience: Developed since the19th century for its fine quality and proximity to the big market Tokyo, Masiko-yaki pottery has long been liked for its daily use items such as pots, water jars and teapots. There are nearly 260 kilns, 50 shops and potters who create works of great variety. Pottery markets held in spring and autumn attract hundreds of thousands of Mashiko-yaki lovers. Even beginners can join workshops to learn how to decorate, hand-form or use a potter’s wheel, and enjoy authentic ceramic art. Tonoike Sake brewery experience: The Sanran Sake brand has been part of Mashiko’s rich culture and tradition for centuries and has a strong following overseas with sake enthusiasts. The Tonoike Sake Brewery, which produces the Saran Sake brand, was created by the rising merchant class tide in the mid 16th century. In this era, countless rice-trading merchants travelled back and forth between eastern Japan (Kanto Tokyo region) and western Japan (Kansai, Osaka region). In parallel, sake brewing became a popular way to add value to the rice they bought and sold. Mashiko and Tochigi's sake breweries have been known for quality sake brewing for centuries now. Most of the rice used b Tonoike is special saka mai (rice for sake brewing) grown locally. Mooka Momen cotton weaving experience: Mooka Momen Cotton has a long history from Japan’s early modern period to the present day. These hand-woven cotton fabrics are especially fascinating for their unique texture. Pick them up and feel their special quality. Visitors can observe the weaving process at the Mooka Momen Kaikan (no reservation required). Hands-on weaving and dyeing experiences are available with prior reservations. he most convenient and popular ways to get to Mashiko from Tokyo are by bus or train. A direct bus from Akihabara in Tokyo to Mashiko is the most convenient. By train, you can take the Shinkansen to Utsunomiya and then a bus or take the JR Mito Line and Moka Line.

Related sources of information & activites

For detailed route descriptions, consult "Hiking in Japan" by Paul Hunt or "Day Walks near Tokyo" by Gary D'A. Walters, both of which serve as excellent resources for local hiking trails. These guides can be found at Kinokuniya Bookstore in Shinjuku and Jena Books in Ginza. Additionally, Kinokuniya offers a wide range of Japanese contour maps. The Tourist Information Center located in the International Forum in Yurakucho provides numerous informative pamphlets in English. Furthermore, related organizations include the International Adventure Club, which convenes monthly to discuss and organize various outdoor activities (03-5370-4230, www.iac-tokyo.org); Friends of the Earth, which conducts hikes almost every Sunday (03-3951-1081, www.foejapan.org); and the Japan Environmental Exchange, which meets regularly to address environmental concerns (0424-88-8943)

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Legendary Nikko: an amazing 8-12-hour excursion from Tokyo

The Japanese saying, "Never say kekko until you've seen Nikko" translates as " Never say this is the most magnificent place until you have seen Nikko!"

Nikko is on the must-see list for many foreign travelers but it takes 2 hours to get there (like the Five Lakes Mount Fuji area also takes two hours to reach). In my tailormade Nikko private tours I advise clients to make a long day of it. A long day being: leave the city at 7:00 or 8:00 and depart from Nikko Station between 17:00 and 19:00. If you really love the outdoors and hot springs then definitely plan on spending two or more nights in the Nikko orbit.

Nikko is stunning in all seasons for those who love all seasons. And it is a place without humidity or excessively high temperatures in summer (while the Tokyo plain is at 100% humidity and plus 39 C (100 F) on most days between early July and early September. In winter Nikko is part of a much larger winter wonderland where snowshoeing, cross country skiing and snow hikes are all part of the fun.

The primary attraction at Nikko is undoubtedly the elaborate wooden mausoleum of shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu (1543-1616) known as Nikko Tosho-gu Shrine. Ieyasu was the founding shogun of the 270-year Tokugawa shogunate headquartered in Edo (Tokyo). But Nikko also has structures that are much older including Futarasan Shrine (founded in 767). The region is also home to many famous onsen hot spring villages and locations. Nikko is also well known for its monkeys that walk around the town in the winter looking for food.

Nikko lies in Tochigi Prefecture about 140 km (85 miles) northeast of Tokyo. The city has a population of about 80,000 people and covers 1,450 square kilometers (or 560 square miles). The city is divided by the Watarase River and the Kinugawa River. Lake Chuzenji and the Kegon Falls, and the Nikko Botanical Garden are all within city limits.

The short version of Nikko's deep history

The Buddhist temples (Rinno-ji and Chuzen-ji) founded by the priest Shodo Shonin are viewed as the start of the village of Nikko. The Ieyasu Tokugawa's Nikko Tosho-gu Shrine was completed in 1617. Nikko Tosho-gu, Futarasan Shrine, and Rinno-ji and 100 other locations are collectively known as the UNESCO World Heritage Site Shrines and Temples of Nikko (since 1999).

During the Meiji period (1868-1912), Nikko gained popularity as a mountain resort zone, which foreign diplomats and foreign tourists made famous across the planet. Japanese National Railways began service to Nikko in 1890. The private Tobu Railways added a separate line from Ueno Station in 1929. All the same it does take about 2 hours to get to Nikko from central Tokyo, all in.

A short list of great attractions in and around Nikko

Hear no evil, speak no evil, see no evil: This saying was turned into an elaborate woodwork featuring three monkeys at the entrance to Toshogu Shrine. At it's peak construction phase the Tokugawa mausoleum project employed 400,000 carpenters!

Tobu World Square: Tobu World Square is a theme park in Kinugawa Onsen, Nikko. The park contains over a hundred 1:25 scale models of famous buildings, including UNESCO-designated World Cultural and Heritage Sites, complete with 140,000 1:25 miniature people.

Edo Wonderland Nikko Edomura: Edo Wonderland Nikko Edomura Japanese cultural theme park in the Kinugawa Onsen area of Nikko showcases the life and culture of the Edo period's golden era known as Genroku period.

Kanmangafuchi abyss: This magnificent abyss was formed by lava from an ancient Mount Nantai eruption.

Lake Chuzenji: This picturesque lake, surrounded by steep moutains and valleys, is also home to old Western consulates, restaurants and a wide range of cultural history dating back to the mid Edo period. The lake is home to two especially famous waterfalls that are a sight to behold! And there are lots of hot spring resorts along the lakeshore and above the lake.

Nikko Botanical Garden: The Nikko Botanical Garden, run by the Graduate School of Science at the University of Tokyo, is set on lush rolling terrain crisscrossed by streams and dotted with ponds at 647 meters above sea level.

Tamozawa Imperial Villa: Nikko's elegant Tamozawa Imperial Villa and gardens were designed and built as an imperial summer residence (as Nikko is so much cooler that Tokyo at muggy sea level). The villa was constructed in 1899 and served as a secure location for Emperor Hirohito during World War II. The former imperial residence is now open to the public as museum and garden.

Content by Japan travel specialist & designer Ian Martin Ropke, founder & owner of Your Japan Private Tours (YJPT, est. 1990). I have been planning, designing, and making custom Japan private tours on all five Japanese islands since the early 1990s. I work closely with all of YJPT's Japan private tour clients and have a great team behind me. I promote YJPT through this content and only advertise at www.japan-guide.com, which has the best all-Japan English content & maps! If you are going to Japan and you understand the advantages of private travel, consider my services for your next trip to save time & have a better time. Ian Martin Ropke (unique on Google Search) is also a serious nonfiction and fiction writer, a startup founder (NexussPlus.com), and a spiritual wood sculptor. Learn more!