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Tokyo Day Trips: Memorable Natural Escapes Near the City

Exploring breathtaking natural destinations near Tokyo for a day trip? We've got you covered! Here's our curated list of the top nature spots and travel guidelines for easy access.

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Day Escapes From Tokyo: Exploring Natural Wonders for a Short Getaway
Day Escapes From Tokyo: Exploring Natural Wonders for a Short Getaway

Tokyo Day Trips: Memorable Natural Escapes Near the City

Discovering Hidden Gems Near Tokyo: 10 Nature Spots You Need to Explore

Tokyo, a bustling metropolis, offers a multitude of tourist attractions. But sometimes, you crave solitude and serenity. Fear not, for nature escapes abound within reach! Check out these 10 stunning natural beauties near Tokyo, perfect for a day trip or weekend getaway.

  1. Mt. Chausu (茶臼岳)A volcanic mountain nestled in the Nasu Mountain Range of Tochigi Prefecture, Mt. Chausu stands 1,915 meters tall, attracting both novice and experienced hikers. Enjoy the breathtaking views from the top, where smoke continuously billows over the active volcano.To reach Mount Chausu from Tokyo:From Shinjuku Station, take the JR Saikyo Line to Omiya Station, then JR Tohoku Shinkansen to Nasushiobara Station. Catch a bus from there to Mt. Chausu. Travel time ~4 hours, costs ~¥7,000.
  2. Lake Nozori (野反湖)Located near the Gunma and Nagano prefecture border, Lake Nozori is part of Joshinetsu Kogen National Park, spanning 180,000 hectares. The lake rests on a plateau approximately 1,500 meters above sea level, featuring a diverse range of alpine plants.To reach Lake Nozori from Tokyo:From Shinjuku Station, take the JR Joetsu Shinkansen to Takasaki Station, then transfer to JR Agatsuma Line to Naganohara-Kusatsuguchi Station. Bus service is available from May to October. Travel time ~4 hours, costs ~¥7,000.
  3. Fukuroda Falls (袋田の滝)Fukuroda Falls, situated in Ibaraki Prefecture, is one of Japan's three greatest falls, along with Kegon Falls and Nachi Falls. With a height of 120 meters and width of 73 meters, the water cascades over four levels of massive rocks, presenting a spectacular show of nature.To reach Fukuroda Falls from Tokyo:From Shinjuku Station, take the JR Hitachi-Tokiwa Line to Mito Station, then transfer to the JR Suigun Line to Fukuroda Station. A bus or taxi will take you to the falls (approximately 10 minutes). Travel time ~3 hours, costs ~¥5,000.
  4. Jogashima Park (城ヶ島公園)Set on the edge of Boso Peninsula in Chiba Prefecture, Jogashima Park boasts a wide variety of plants and seasonal flowers, creating breathtaking sceneries. Take a leisurely stroll along the pathways leading to scenic spots like the beautiful coastline and expansive lawn areas.To reach Jogashima Park from Tokyo:From JR Shinagawa Station, take the Keikyu Line to Misakiguchi Station, then the Keikyu Bus bound for Hakushu-mae. Travel time ~2 hours, costs ~¥1,300.
  5. Ashikaga Flower Park (あしかがフラワーパーク)Ashikaga Flower Park is renowned for its beautiful displays of flowers, drawing 1.5 million visitors annually. The park divides the year into eight periods, welcoming visitors with flowers planted according to various themes in each period.To reach Ashikaga Flower Park from Tokyo:From Ikebukuro Station, take the Ikebukuro Line Express to Seibu-Chichibu Station, then a short walk to the park. Travel time ~2 hours, costs ~¥1,500.
  6. Hitachi Seaside Park (ひたち海浜公園)With 7 areas featuring different seasonal flowers and outdoor activities, Hitachi Seaside Park stands out for its beautiful blooms, particularly the nemophila flowers that cover Miharashi no Oka (Michi no Eki Tabi Town Hitachinaka) in spring, creating an incredible blue carpet.To reach Hitachi Seaside Park from Tokyo:Take the JR Hitachi-Tokiwa train to Katsuta Station, then the Ibaraki Kotsu Bus bound for Kaihin-koen Nishiguchi. Travel time ~2 hours, costs ~¥4,250.
  7. Hitsujiyama Park (羊山公園)Situated in the east part of Chichibu city, Saitama prefecture, Hitsujiyama Park is famous for the stunning Shiba-zakura (moss phlox) that bloom on the slopes of Mount Buko from mid-April to early May. Enjoy the contrast between the colorful flowers and Mount Buko's impressive silhouette.To reach Hitsujiyama Park from Tokyo:From Ikebukuro Station, take the Ikebukuro Line Express to Seibu-Chichibu Station, then a 15-minute walk to the park. Travel time ~2 hours, costs ~¥1,500.
  8. Nagatoro (長瀬エリア)Nagatoro, a popular tourist destination in Saitama Prefecture, offers historical sites, scenic spots, and outdoor activities. Rafting down the Arakawa River is a must-do activity, and boat tours provide a peaceful experience taking you through the rocky valley.To reach Nagatoro from Tokyo:From Shinjuku Station, take the JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line to Kumagaya Station, then transfer to the Chichibu Railway to Nagatoro Station. Travel time ~2 hours, costs ~¥2,000.
  9. Oyama Senmaida Rice Terrace (大山千枚田)Located in Kamogawa city, Chiba Prefecture, Oyama Senmaida Rice Terrace is one of the few beautiful rice fields near Tokyo. Visit during the spring to witness traditional rice planting by local farmers, or come in autumn to marvel at the golden hues as the rice matures.To reach Oyama Senmaida Rice Terrace from Tokyo:From Shinjuku Station, take the JR Wakashio train to Awa-Kamogawa Station, then a bus to the rice terrace. Travel time ~3 hours, costs ~¥2,400.
  10. Oarai Isosaki Shrine (大洗磯前神社)Famous for its iconic torii gate that seemingly stands in the sea, Oarai Isosaki Shrine has a rich history dating back to 856. It attracts visitors during New Year's Day, when thousands arrive to greet the sunrise, known as hatsuhinode, seeking good fortune for the new year.To reach Oarai Isosaki Shrine from Tokyo:Take the JR Hitachi-Tokiwa train to Mito Station, then a local bus to Oaraijinjamae. Travel time ~2.5 hours, costs ~¥4,500.

Experience the best of Japan's nature without traveling too far from Tokyo. Get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and create unforgettable memories in these breathtaking destinations!

[1] (https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e200914.html)[2] (https://www.tokyocheapo.com/travel/day-travel-spots-near-tokyo/)[3] (https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e200912.html)[4] (https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e200910.html)

  1. These hidden gems near Tokyo provide an escape from the city's chaos, offering tranquil experiences that transform your itinerary.
  2. As you ascend Mount Chausu, enjoy the transportation up the Nasu Mountain Range, immersing yourself in the scenic views.
  3. To complement your day at Lake Nozori, explore local food joints and restaurants for a taste of the local culture.
  4. While hiking Fukuroda Falls, take a break to appreciate the refreshing drinks and snacks available along the route.
  5. Jogashima Park invites visitors to indulge in various food stalls and sushi bars dotted around the park, providing travels with a delightful dining experience.
  6. After a day of tours at Hitsujiyama Park, unwind at nearby onsens to rejuvenate your body and mind.
  7. As the cherry blossoms bloom in spring, or the autumn leaves change colors in autumn, the beauty of nature is amplified at these spots.
  8. Nagatoro's events, such as boat tours and rafting, offer unique experiences that blend seamlessly with the region's natural beauty.
  9. At Oyama Senmaida Rice Terrace, immerse yourself in Japan's lifestyle as you watch farmers planting rice in the springtime or marvel at the golden hues during the autumn season.
  10. Bask in the atmosphere of Oarai Isosaki Shrine as you witness the hatsuhinode and honor the rich history and tradition surrounding the iconic torii gate in the sea.

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