Day Trips
Hakone, Nikko, Kamakura, Nara, Himeji. Which day trips earn the travel day out of your trip — and which quietly cost you the city you flew for.
Hakone Day Trip Guide: Hot Springs and Mt Fuji Views
Hakone is the classic mountain escape from Tokyo — onsen, Mt Fuji views, and a scenic loop of railways and boats. Here's how to do it.
Nara Day Trip Guide: Deer and a Giant Buddha
Nara is the easiest, most charming day trip from Kyoto or Osaka — free-roaming deer, a giant bronze Buddha, and ancient temples. Here's how to visit.
Nikko Day Trip Guide: Shrines in the Forest
Nikko offers spectacular UNESCO shrines among cedar forests and mountain scenery, a rewarding day trip north of Tokyo. Here's how to visit.
Kamakura Day Trip Guide: The Great Buddha by the Sea
Kamakura is an easy, relaxed coastal day trip from Tokyo, famous for its open-air Great Buddha, temples, and beaches. Here's how to visit.
Himeji Castle Day Trip Guide
Himeji Castle is Japan's finest original castle, an easy Shinkansen trip from Kyoto or Osaka. Here's what to see and how to plan your visit.
Best Day Trips from Kyoto (Nara, Osaka & Himeji)
Friendly deer, a food-lover's city, and Japan's finest castle are all a short train ride from Kyoto. Here are the best day trips for first-timers.
Best Day Trips from Tokyo (Hakone, Nikko & Kamakura)
Tokyo's rail network puts mountains, temples, and a giant Buddha within easy reach. Here are the three best day trips for first-time visitors.