Tokyo is a bustling metropolis with endless options for exploration and entertainment. However, sometimes it’s nice to step away from the fast-paced city and take a breather in the surrounding areas. Luckily, Tokyo has a plethora of day trip options that are easily accessible by train or bus. Whether you’re in the mood for breathtaking nature views or rich cultural experiences, Tokyo’s day trips have something for everyone. In this post, we’ll be sharing our top picks for the best day trips in Tokyo that are sure to leave you feeling refreshed and enriched.

The 3 Best Day Trips in Tokyo

1. Private Custom Tour Tokyo in a Day
2. Hakone and Mt Fuji One Day Tour
3. Explore the Beauty of Tokyo Japan in One Day

The 3 Best Day Trips in Tokyo

1. Private Custom Tour Tokyo in a Day

Discover Tokyo at your own pace with a private custom tour that is ideal for your interests. This 4- or 8-hour private tour includes a fully customizable itinerary, allowing you to choose from a wide range of options, including the outer fish market at Tsukiji, city’s temples and shrines, shopping excursions, and food or sake tours. Your tour includes a knowledgable guide, entrance fees at select attractions, snacks, and round-trip transport from your hotel with meet-and-greet. If you select the full-day tour option, you can also enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Depending on your interests, you can visit city attractions like Meiji Shrine and the Imperial Palace or explore Tokyo’s diverse neighborhoods. You can travel by train and subway or upgrade to a comfortable private vehicle. This fully-customizable private tour is ideal for travelers who want to see Tokyo their way.

2. Hakone and Mt Fuji One Day Tour

The Hakone and Mt Fuji One Day Tour is a great option for those looking to explore the beauty of the region. The tour includes private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, and admission tickets to various attractions.

The tour starts with a visit to Hakone Shrine/Kuzuryu Shrine Singu where you can take in the beautiful scenery and learn about the history of the area. Afterwards, you’ll be taken to Lake Ashinoko where you can take a relaxing hour-long boat ride and admire the stunning views.

Other stops on the tour include Hakone Gora Park and The Hakone Open-Air Museum, where you can appreciate the art and architecture of the region. Additionally, you can take a ride on the Hakone Ropeway for a unique perspective on Mt Fuji.

Pickup is available within Tokyo 23 wards and drop-off location is the same as pick up location. Confirmation will be received at time of booking and the tour is open to most travelers. While the tour is not wheelchair accessible, it is stroller accessible and infant seats are available upon request.

Overall, the Hakone and Mt Fuji One Day Tour offers a great opportunity to experience the beauty and culture of the region, all while enjoying comfortable private transportation and expert guidance.

3. Explore the Beauty of Tokyo Japan in One Day

Explore the Beauty of Tokyo Japan in One Day

This full-day private tour allows you to explore the best sights in Tokyo in just one day. Enjoy the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle and a knowledgeable local guide who will take you to experience the highlights of the city.

The tour kicks off at the Tsukiji Fish Market, where visitors can see one of the largest fish markets in the world in action. After strolling through the market, the group will head to Asakusa, a lively district that is home to one of Tokyo’s most famous landmarks, the Sensoji Temple.

Other stops on the tour include stops at Tokyo Skytree, the Imperial Palace, Meiji Jingu Shrine, the Shibuya Scramble Crossing, and Harajuku Station.

This is a private tour, which means that your group will be the only participants. The tour is also stroller and infant seat accessible, but unfortunately not wheelchair accessible.

Cancellation is possible up to 24 hours before the start time of the visit for a full refund. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the start time or if there is bad weather, there will be no refund.

The Most Frequently Asked Questions by Tourists About Tokyo

Tokyo is one of the most exciting cities in the world, offering a unique blend of traditional Japanese culture and modern city living. For first-time tourists, it can be overwhelming to figure out what to do, where to go, and how to navigate the bustling metropolis. In this post, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions by tourists about Tokyo, providing valuable insights and tips to help you plan your visit.

1. When is the best time to visit Tokyo?

Tokyo is a year-round destination, with each season offering something unique. The best time to visit really depends on your preferences and what you want to do. Here’s an overview of what to expect during each season:

• Spring (March to May): This is when the famous cherry blossoms bloom, making it a popular time for tourists. However, it can be crowded, and accommodations can be expensive.
• Summer (June to August): Hot and humid weather, but lots of festivals and events. This is also the season for outdoor activities, such as hiking and visiting the beach.
• Fall (September to November): Mild weather, with beautiful autumn foliage. A great time to visit if you want to avoid crowds but still experience the city’s beauty.
• Winter (December to February): Cold weather, but a great time to visit if you enjoy winter sports or want to enjoy Tokyo’s illuminations and New Year celebrations.

2. What should I pack for my trip to Tokyo?

What you pack for your trip to Tokyo depends on the time of year you’re visiting and the activities you have planned. However, here are some essentials you may want to bring:

• Comfortable walking shoes: Tokyo is a city made for walking, and you may find yourself walking more than you expect. Make sure you have comfortable shoes.
• Umbrella: Tokyo is prone to sudden showers, so it’s a good idea to bring an umbrella with you.
• Power adapter: Japan uses a different type of outlet than most countries, so you’ll need an adapter if you plan to charge your electronics.
• Light jacket: Even in the summer, the air conditioning in buildings can be quite strong, so it’s a good idea to bring a lightweight jacket or sweater.

3. How do I get around Tokyo?

Tokyo has one of the most extensive and efficient public transportation systems in the world. Here are some options for getting around the city:

• Subway: The Tokyo subway system is an excellent way to get around the city quickly and efficiently. Fares are based on distance, but day passes and multi-day passes are available for convenience.
• Train: Japan is famous for its bullet trains, and they are a great way to travel between cities. The Shinkansen connects Tokyo with other major cities, such as Kyoto and Osaka.
• Taxi: Taxis are widely available, but they can be expensive, especially during rush hour.
• Bus: Buses are a good option for shorter trips or if you’re traveling with a lot of luggage. However, they can be slower than other forms of transportation due to traffic.

4. Is it safe to travel in Tokyo?

Tokyo is one of the safest cities in the world, and you’re unlikely to encounter any serious safety issues during your visit. However, as with any large city, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

• Carry your passport: You are not legally required to carry your passport with you, but it’s a good idea to have it with you in case of an emergency.
• Watch out for scams: Tourists are sometimes targeted by scammers, especially in popular areas. Be cautious of anyone offering you something that seems too good to be true.
• Avoid unlicensed taxis: Only use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services, as unlicensed taxis can be dangerous.
• Be respectful of local customs: Japan has a distinct culture, and it’s important to be respectful of local customs and traditions, such as removing your shoes before entering a home or temple.

5. What are the must-visit attractions in Tokyo?

Tokyo has something for everyone, from historic temples to modern shopping districts. Here are some of the must-visit attractions in Tokyo:

• Sensoji Temple: This is Tokyo’s oldest temple and one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city.
• Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden: A beautiful park with a traditional Japanese garden, a French garden, and an English garden.
• Ginza: Tokyo’s premier shopping district, with high-end stores and luxury boutiques.
• Tsukiji Fish Market: One of the world’s largest fish markets, known for its tuna auctions and fresh seafood.
• Harajuku: A trendy and eccentric neighborhood famous for its street fashion and quirky shops.
• Sumo Wrestling: If you’re visiting during the sumo wrestling season (January, May, and September), watching a match is a unique and exciting experience.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Tokyo

Tokyo – the vibrant capital city of Japan that never sleeps. This bustling metropolis is known for its rich culture, food scene, shopping, and iconic landmarks. With so much to explore and discover, it can be overwhelming for first-time visitors to decide how to make the most of their time in Tokyo. In this guide, we will provide you with a detailed itinerary on how to spend your time as a tourist in Tokyo.

Day 1

Morning: Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Start your day by visiting Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, which is one of the largest and most beautiful parks in Tokyo, located in the heart of the city. The garden has three distinct styles of landscaping – Japanese traditional, French formal and English landscape. You can stroll around the garden, admire the blooming flowers, enjoy a picnic or just relax in peaceful surroundings.

Afternoon: Shibuya Crossing and Takeshita Street

In the afternoon, head to the world-famous Shibuya Crossing, also known as the busiest intersection in the world. Watch the traffic chaos and the pedestrians crossing the street from the Starbucks store on the second floor of the Tsutaya building. Afterward, take a short walk to Takeshita Street, which is known for its quirky fashion, cute cafes, and street food. Try some of the unique sweets like crepes, cotton candy, and rainbow-colored popcorn.

Evening: Tokyo Tower

End your day by visiting Tokyo Tower, which is one of the iconic landmarks of Tokyo. It’s a 333-meter-tall structure that offers stunning views of the city. You can take an elevator to the top and admire the panoramic views from the observation deck. Consider having dinner at one of the restaurants in the tower and enjoy the city lights.

Day 2

Morning: Fish Market and Asakusa

Start your day early and head to Tsukiji Fish Market, the largest seafood market in the world. You can walk around the market and admire the fresh catches of the day or have a sushi breakfast at one of the restaurants. Afterward, take the subway to Asakusa, which is an old-school district in Tokyo known for the Senso-ji Temple. Visit the temple and stroll around the street market selling traditional souvenirs and street food.

Afternoon: Akihabara

In the afternoon, visit Akihabara, also known as the electric town. Akihabara is famous for its electronic gadgets, anime, and manga merchandise. Visit the massive department stores like Yodobashi Camera or Bic Camera, where you can find all kinds of electronics and appliances. If you’re an anime/manga fan, visit the numerous otaku shops selling the latest figurines, posters, and cosplay costumes.

Evening: Robot Restaurant and Nightlife in Shinjuku

End your day with a unique experience at Robot Restaurant, located in Shinjuku. The Robot Restaurant is a futuristic-themed cabaret show that involves robots, neon lights, and dancers. The show is an explosion of color and sound that will leave you with unforgettable memories. Afterward, head to the Kabukicho area in Shinjuku, which is known for its nightlife, bars, and restaurants.

Day 3

Morning: Meiji Shrine and Harajuku

Start your day by visiting Meiji Shrine, which is a serene and peaceful shrine located in the middle of a forest. The shrine is dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken and is one of the most popular shrines in Tokyo. Afterward, take a short walk to Harajuku, which is known for its youthful fashion and quirky street style. Visit the famous Kawaii Monster Cafe or any of the other numerous cafes and shops.

Afternoon: Odaiba

In the afternoon, take the Yurikamome line to Odaiba, which is a futuristic island in Tokyo Bay. Odaiba has many attractions such as the Gundam Square, Oedo Onsen Monogatari hot spring theme park, and the Palette Town shopping complex. You can also take a ride on the giant Ferris Wheel or visit the interactive Toyota Mega Web showroom.

Evening: Shinjuku Golden Gai

End your day by visiting Shinjuku Golden Gai, which is a small area of alleyways in Shinjuku that is home to numerous bars and restaurants. The area has a retro feeling, and many of the establishments can only accommodate a few customers at a time. The bars in the area are known for their friendly atmosphere and unique charm.

Conclusion

Tokyo is a city full of surprises and unique experiences. This itinerary covers some of the must-see attractions and places that Tokyo has to offer. We hope that you found this guide useful and that it will help you plan your trip to Tokyo. Remember to try some of the local cuisines, stroll around the neighborhoods, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Tokyo. Safe travels!