Tokyo is often thought of in terms of neon lights, skyscrapers and crowded streets—but just beyond the city lies a world of stunning natural escapes waiting to be explored. Within a few hours, you can swap urban intensity for tranquil forests, misty mountains, serene lakes, and dramatic volcanic landscapes.
Escape into Nature from Tokyo
The regions surrounding Tokyo host a rich variety of landscapes and outdoor experiences. Whether your heart yearns for gentle walks, forest trails, lake vistas or geothermal wonders, there are day-trip destinations that deliver both natural beauty and cultural depth. Among the top picks are Nikko, Hakone, and the Fuji Five Lakes region.
Nikko sits north of Tokyo and combines lush forests with World Heritage temples and shrines. The star attraction is Toshogu Shrine, an ornately decorated complex dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, featuring the famous Yomeimon Gateand many intricate carvings. The shrine is part of a larger UNESCO-designated ensemble of temples and shrines in Nikko. The surrounding area also offers forested trails, waterfalls, and the scenic Shinkyo (sacred bridge). In the spring and autumn, its foliage is especially vibrant.
Hakone is a favorite for its mix of hot springs (onsen), mountain scenery, and vistas of Mount Fuji when skies are clear. A popular way to explore is via the Hakone Round Course, which weaves together the Hakone Ropeway, Lake Ashi sightseeing cruise, and Owakudani Valley (volcanic activity, sulphur vents, and the famed “black eggs” boiled in hot springs). You may also visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum, which integrates sculptures into the natural setting.
Then there’s the Fuji Five Lakes area: lakes such as Kawaguchi, Saiko, Yamanaka, Shoji and Motosu frame Mount Fujibeautifully, making it a prime spot for photographers. Whether you hike trails, rent a kayak, or camp near the water, the views of Fuji reflected in the calm lakes are unforgettable at sunrise or sunset.
These destinations also bring chances to see Japan’s native flora and fauna—the forested slopes of Nikko, the cedar groves, and the rivers and lakes around the Fuji region support a diverse ecosystem.
Transport from Tokyo is quite accessible: express trains, regional trains, and highway buses serve these routes. While some connections (e.g. between Hakone and Fuji Five Lakes) are not always straightforward, travel is feasible even without your own car.
As eco-tourism gains popularity, responsibly visiting these nature escapes is increasingly encouraged. Plan around seasonal weather, check for festival overlap, and arrive early when possible to beat the crowds and make the most of the day.
Summary & Updates
-
Toshogu Shrine in Nikko is a real and highly significant site, known for its rich decoration, the Yomeimon Gate, and carvings like the “three wise monkeys.”
-
The Shrines and Temples of Nikko are officially recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage complex.
-
Toshogu Shrine’s opening hours are typically 8:00 to 17:00 (October to March until 16:00), with last admission about 30 minutes before closing. The adult entrance fee is around ¥1,300.
-
Hakone’s attractions like the Lake Ashi cruise and Ropeway via Owakudani are actively operating and commonly included in guided day trips.
-
Some tours departing Tokyo bundle Mount Fuji views, the Hakone loop, and a cruise on Lake Ashi in a single day.
-
However, direct travel between Hakone and the Fuji Five Lakes region is not always easy — some routes require transfers or private transport.
-
The distance between Hakone and Kawaguchiko (one of the Five Lakes) can be bridged by bus in about 80 minutes.
-
In Nikko, Toshogu Shrine is 35 minutes on foot from the station, or you can take local buses (about 10 minutes) to reach it.
-
Nikko also features the Nikko Botanical Garden, located in the hills above Toshogu, hosting alpine plants and ponds.
What are some popular hiking trails near Tokyo?
Some popular hiking trails include the trails in Nikko National Park and the routes around Mount Takao, which are suitable for all fitness levels.
How can I get to these day trip destinations from Tokyo?
You can reach these places via train or bus, with many services running frequently from central Tokyo, making transportation convenient and accessible.
When is the best time to visit natural attractions near Tokyo?
Spring and autumn are ideal times to visit due to the pleasant weather and beautiful seasonal changes, particularly for enjoying vibrant foliage and cherry blossoms.
COMMENTS