Activities around Tokyo

Fun Activities around Tokyo

From Nikko to Hakone, the Kanto Region abounds in treasures for the senses and the imagination. Just one or two hours from the center of the capital of Tokyo, a train journey will take you to a totally different landscape, where you can discover historical treasures surrounded by lush nature.

Away from the city’s central hustle and bustle, the greater Tokyo area is home to some of the most beautiful nature that can be seen in all of Japan. Mount Mitake is located in Okutama, in the most western section of the greater Tokyo area (which actually operates like a prefecture with many cities and districts within it). This sacred mountain has been a center for spiritualism for over 2000 years. 

But beyond Mount Mitake, the most famous mountain in all of Japan, it can also be a spectacle from within the Tokyo area. Head out to Odawara, the gateway to Hakone in Kanagawa Prefecture, and enjoy gorgeous nature, serene hot springs, and an amazing view of Mount Fuji on a clear day!

Also in Kanagawa is Matsuda, directly accessible by the Odakyu Line. Here, the ancient practice of Takigyo can be experienced, a form of meditation that entails concentrating under a running waterfall. This is something that must be seen and done first-hand to believe! 

For history lovers, Nikko is a destination in Tochigi Prefecture with strong ties to the Tokugawa Shogunate. This storied area has links to this past all around, but in the modern day, it simultaneously stands as a jewel of artistry, craft, and architecture surrounded by gorgeous nature. 

For something a bit more urban-centric, the city of Yokohama, the second most populous city in Japan, is a short distance from Tokyo and offers a one-of-a-kind cruise experience through the city’s industrial zone. There is a unique beauty that comes from the atmosphere of this area, which is ideal for night photographers!

The City

Tokyo, the capital of Japan, is a metropolis where tradition and modernity coexist harmoniously. You can visit historic shrines like the Meiji-jingu, stroll through the Imperial Gardens, or explore the bustling districts of Shibuya and Shinjuku. Glittering skyscrapers stand alongside ancient temples, creating a unique urban landscape that tells the rich and varied history of Tokyo.

Despite being the most populous city in the world, the Japanese capital is home to countless modest and hip neighborhoods with relaxed atmospheres. Independently owned coffee shops and shops await you with friendly, passionate staff. Additionally, Tokyo boasts some of the best museums in the world, be they art institutions atop skyscrapers or historic exhibits displaying the country’s rich past. 

There truly is something for everyone in Tokyo, and with easy access to nearby day trip locations, it serves as a great anchor point for travel in the colorful Kanto Region!

At the gates of Tokyo

Near Tokyo, several places offer natural escapes accessible in just a few hours. Mount Takao, for example, is a popular hiking site offering breathtaking views of Tokyo and sometimes even Mount Fuji on clear days. The surrounding national parks and mountains allow visitors to discover the natural beauty of Japan while staying close to the city.

Culinary experience

Tokyo is a paradise for food and culture enthusiasts. From the bustling markets like Tsukiji to the gourmet districts such as Ginza, the city offers impressive culinary diversity and even boasts the most Michelin-star-awarded restaurants in the world! Delicious food exists everywhere in Tokyo, with amazing establishments laced throughout its many stylish neighborhoods. From world class sushi restaurants to down-to-earth spots with local-favorite lunch sets, foodies will find no shortage of amazing cuisine in this metropolitan food capital!