If you’ve explored Tokyo’s endless attractions—from its neon-lit streets and anime culture to serene gardens and quirky museums—it’s time to see what lies beyond the city.
Let’s look at the best day trips from Tokyo, where you can explore Japan’s most beautiful landscapes and traditional charm—all without changing hotels.
We landed in Japan’s buzzing capital, Tokyo, in spring 2024 with a five-year-old and a baby in a stroller, and this most populous city amazed us in more ways than one.
What surprised us most?
How easy it was to take short, scenic day trips straight from Tokyo.
Japan’s trains are unbelievably punctual, stations are stroller-accessible, and even long rides feel effortless when there’s a vending machine every few steps and locals ready to help with a smile.
But here’s the real magic: within one to two hours of Tokyo, you can swap skyscrapers for mountains, hot springs, beaches, and peaceful heritage towns—all perfect for a family day out.
That’s why we created this guide—for families like us who love Tokyo’s energy but crave a calmer side of Japan between theme parks and sushi nights.
Whether your little ones are into trains and pirate ships or prefer quiet walks and animal spotting, there’s a perfect Tokyo day trip waiting for you.
We’ve done the Mt. Fuji and Hakone day trips ourselves, and some are on our waiting list for the next trip. Here, you will get our experience with wishlists, so this guide is as real as it gets.
From Mt. Fuji’s shimmering lakes to Hakone’s pirate ships, Nikko’s forest shrines, and Kamakura’s beachside temples, here’s how to plan your next family day trip from Tokyo—stress-free and full of unforgettable memories.
The most popular Day Trip from Tokyo with Kids
Before diving into each destination, here’s a quick comparison to help you decide which Tokyo day trip fits your family best.
Every spot offers a different slice of Japan’s countryside—from mountain air to seaside calm—but travel time, kid-friendliness, and overall vibe vary quite a bit.
| Destination | Travel Time (from Tokyo) | Best For | Age Suitability | Why Choose This |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mt. Fuji / Lake Kawaguchiko | ~2 hrs by train or bus | Nature, lakes, Fuji views, light adventure | All ages | The classic Japan postcard view—easy lakeside walks, ropeway rides, and plenty of space for little ones to run. |
| Hakone | ~1.5 hrs by train | Scenic rides, onsen, art, mountain air | 3+ years | A fun mix of pirate ship rides, cable cars, and hot springs—ideal if you want excitement without leaving nature. |
| Nikko | ~2 hrs by train | Shrines, waterfalls, forest walks | 6+ years | Peaceful, cultural, and full of history—great for older kids who can enjoy temples and light hikes. |
| Kamakura & Enoshima | ~1 hr by train | Beach, temples, relaxed cafes | All ages | A calm seaside escape close to Tokyo—perfect if you want sand play, Big Buddha views, and breezy train rides. |
| Yokohama | 40 mins by train | City fun, aquarium, parks | Toddlers+ | The easiest day trip for families with young kids—no transfers, lots of stroller-friendly spots, and plenty to do indoors. |
| Kawagoe (Little Edo) | ~1 hr by train | Old-town streets, sweets shops | 5+ years | A glimpse of “old Japan” in a walkable town—charming, educational, and perfect for kids who love stories and treats. |
1. Mt. Fuji / Lake Kawaguchiko – For Nature and Scenic Views
Travel time: ~2 hours by train or bus
Kid highlights: Ropeway rides, lakeside walks, flower parks, and Fuji-framed views
If there’s one day trip from Tokyo that truly lives up to the hype, it’s Mount Fuji. Most families join guided tours for ease, but we did it on our own—and it turned out to be one of the most rewarding days of our Japan trip.
Just two hours from Tokyo, Lake Kawaguchiko offers stroller-friendly paths, peaceful lake views, and that unforgettable moment when Fuji suddenly appears between rooftops and clouds.
Our kids loved the Panoramic Ropeway and watching pedal boats glide across the lake.
The short climb to Chureito Pagoda is a mini-adventure in itself; our toddler made it halfway before demanding a lift, but the view from the top—Fuji framed by cherry blossoms—was pure magic.
Our tip: Check the Mt. Fuji live camera before leaving Tokyo for clear visibility, and pack layers—the air around the lakes can be 5–8°C cooler.
Despite a few snack meltdowns and tired legs, this was the day our kids were wide-eyed, pointing and shouting “Fuji-san!” It’s a calm, scenic escape from Tokyo’s energy—worth every stair, every mile, and every “Are we there yet?”
Read our full guide: Mt. Fuji with Kids—A Perfect Family Day Trip from Tokyo.
If I Can Do Only One Day Trip from Tokyo…
Choose Mt. Fuji / Lake Kawaguchiko if you want that classic Japan postcard moment. It’s the perfect balance of fresh air, gentle adventure, and family-friendly nature—ideal for making lifetime memories with little ones.
2. Hakone – For Scenic Rides and Relaxing Onsens
Travel time: ~1 hour 40 minutes by train
Kid highlights: Pirate ship cruise, ropeway ride, open-air museum, sulphur vents, lakeside shrines
A day trip to Hakone is the perfect blend of fun and calm. Families can sail across Lake Ashinoko on a playful pirate ship, then ride the ropeway up to Owakudani, where steam rises from volcanic vents and famous black eggs are boiled in the springs.
The full Hakone sightseeing loop may sound complicated, but with the Hakone Free Pass, it’s surprisingly easy—every train, bus, and cable car is included.
Wide walkways and open spaces make Hakone manageable even with a stroller, and the mountain air is a welcome change after Tokyo’s buzz. Don’t miss the Hakone Open-Air Museum, where sculptures sit against green hills—a spot that feels like an outdoor art park for kids.
Parent tip: Pack light layers—it’s cooler at higher altitudes—and plan short breaks between rides so little legs don’t tire out.
Read our full guide: Hakone with Kids—A Scenic Family Day Trip from Tokyo (coming soon)…
If I Can Do Only One Day Trip from Tokyo…
Pick Hakone if your kids love rides, views, and variety. The mix of trains, cable cars, and a pirate ship makes the journey itself the adventure—relaxing for parents, exciting for kids, and easily doable in one day.
3. Nikko—For Culture and Nature
Travel time: ~2 hours by train
Kid highlights: Shrines and temples, waterfalls, forest walks, and the red Shinkyo Bridge
If your family loves nature walks and cultural stories, Nikko is a magical day trip from Tokyo. Nestled in the mountains of Tochigi Prefecture, this UNESCO World Heritage town combines ancient architecture, forest trails, and some of Japan’s most beautiful waterfalls—all in one destination.
The highlight is the Toshogu Shrine, a gold-adorned complex that dazzles kids and adults alike. Our little one loved spotting the famous “Three Wise Monkeys” carving—seeno evil, hear no evil, speak no evil.
Beyond the shrine, the bright red Shinkyo Bridge offers one of Nikko’s most photographed views, arching gracefully over the Daiya River.
Nature-loving families can ride a short bus to Lake Chuzenji and Kegon Falls, where autumn colors turn the hills into fiery reds and oranges. The nearby Kanmangafuchi Abyss, lined with rows of stone Jizo statues, feels both peaceful and mysterious—a quiet trail that even toddlers find fascinating.
We couldn’t fit Nikko into our Tokyo itinerary this time—traveling with a baby meant focusing on shorter routes—but it’s high on our waitlist for our next Japan trip when the kids are older and ready to enjoy its trails and temples more fully.
Parent tip: It’s a long day, so start early and pack lunch or snacks. The air is cooler in the mountains, and paths can be uneven—baby carriers work better than strollers here.
Read our full guide: Nikko with Kids—Cultural Wonders and Nature Trails from Tokyo (we will update here soon)
If I Can Do Only One Day Trip from Tokyo…
Choose Nikko if your family enjoys temples, stories, and being surrounded by nature. It’s perfect for older kids who can appreciate a bit of walking and love exploring new sights with meaning and history.
After full-day outings like Mount Fuji or Nikko, choosing a calm indoor experience matters. Here’s how teamLab Borderless fits perfectly into our Tokyo itinerary with young kids—and why we’d choose it again.
4. Kamakura & Enoshima – For Beach Fun and Easy Vibes
Travel time: ~1 hour by train
Kid highlights: Big Buddha, seaside walks, Enoden train, small beaches, and coastal cafés
Just under an hour from Tokyo, Kamakura makes a calm and easy family day trip—a coastal town where Japan’s temple history meets relaxed beach vibes. Once Japan’s political capital, today it’s best known for the iconic Great Buddha (Kōtoku-in) and peaceful temples tucked between green hills and bamboo groves.
Families can ride the Enoden train between Kamakura and Enoshima, stopping for short walks, local snacks, and quick splashes at the beach. The town’s compact layout makes it manageable even with young kids, and its quiet shrines feel refreshingly different from Tokyo’s pace.
Our toddler would’ve loved running barefoot on the beach near Enoshima Station, but this time we couldn’t fit Kamakura into our Tokyo itinerary. It’s one of those spots we’ve added to our next-trip list—perfect for when the kids are older and can enjoy both the temples and the sea breeze without rushing, and we can stay longer in Tokyo.
Parent tip: Kamakura’s local buses and trains are stroller-friendly, and shaded rest spots make it easy to explore at your own pace. Pack water and snacks, and don’t skip the sweet potato ice cream—it’s a hit with kids!
Read our full guide: Kamakura with Kids—Coastal Temples and Seaside Fun (coming soon)
If I Can Do Only One Day Trip from Tokyo…
Choose Kamakura & Enoshima if you want a relaxed, short, and easy escape from the city. With temples, beaches, and scenic train rides all in one day, it’s perfect for families who love gentle adventures and sea air.
5. Yokohama – For Urban Fun Close to Tokyo
Travel time: 30–40 minutes by train
Kid highlights: Aquarium, Cup Noodles Museum, Cosmo World, seafront parks, and Pokémon manhole hunt
Just half an hour from Tokyo, Yokohama is the easiest family day trip when you need a break from the capital but don’t want to travel far. This vibrant port city blends seaside calm with city energy — perfect for a relaxed, stroller-friendly outing with toddlers or younger kids.
Families love Yokohama’s Cup Noodles Museum, where kids can decorate and create their own instant noodle cups, and Cosmo World, a small amusement park featuring the bright Cosmo Clock 21 Ferris wheel overlooking the bay. The Yokohama Aquarium (Sea Paradise) and Sankeien Garden add variety — a mix of interactive fun and peaceful green space.
Chinatown’s colorful streets and the historic Red Brick Warehouses offer easy walking, great food, and plenty of open areas for kids to run around. It’s the kind of day trip where you don’t have to plan much — just wander, snack, and enjoy the view.
Parent tip: Yokohama is completely stroller-friendly, with wide pavements, elevators at stations, and clean family facilities everywhere. It’s great for half-day trips or lazy travel days between longer excursions.
Read our full guide: Yokohama with Kids – Easy Half-Day Adventure from Tokyo (coming soon)
If I Can Do Only One Day Trip from Tokyo…
Choose Yokohama if you want something close, comfortable, and toddler-friendly. It’s ideal for families with little ones who prefer playgrounds, aquariums, and a relaxed pace over long train rides or temple walks.
6. Kawagoe (Little Edo) – For a Walk Through ‘Little Edo’
Travel time: ~1 hour by train
Kid highlights: Candy Alley, clock tower, old-style streets, and local street food
If your family loves wandering through charming streets and learning a little history along the way, Kawagoe — nicknamed “Little Edo” — is a perfect day trip from Tokyo.
This small town takes you back to Japan’s Edo period, with traditional kurazukuri clay-walled buildings, narrow alleys, and friendly shop owners offering local snacks and handmade toys.
Families can stroll through Candy Alley (Kashiya Yokocho), where kids will be spoiled for choice with colorful sweets, retro toys, and tiny souvenirs.
The Toki no Kane (Time Bell Tower) chimes over the town, adding to the nostalgic atmosphere, and the Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine is a lovely stop known for family blessings and good fortune charms.
The town is compact and walkable, making it easy to explore without extra transport. Between temples, shops, and the scenic Taisho-Roman Dori street with its mix of Japanese and Western architecture, you’ll find plenty of photo spots and small cafés to rest your feet.
Parent tip: Kawagoe’s cobbled streets are best for older kids who can walk comfortably, but a lightweight stroller works fine for toddlers. Go early to avoid the crowds, especially on weekends.
Read our full guide: Kawagoe with Kids – A Walk Through Japan’s Little Edo (coming soon)
If I Can Do Only One Day Trip from Tokyo…
Choose Kawagoe if your family enjoys exploring local culture and charming old towns. It’s an easy, crowd-free escape filled with sweets, stories, and simple joys — perfect for a slower-paced day beyond the city.
Choose the Right Day Trip from Tokyo with kids
Any Tokyo trip deserves at least three to four days to enjoy the capital itself — its rhythm, flavors, and the little surprises around every corner.
For most of us visiting Japan for the first time, adding one day trip from Tokyo is the perfect way to see a different side of the country without the stress of repacking, especially with young kids.
Here is our recommendation on Day trips from Tokyo with kids;
If you’re short on time, start with Hakone or Kamakura — both are easy, scenic, and ideal for a calm escape with kids. For the ultimate Japan postcard moment, Mt. Fuji / Kawaguchiko is unmissable. Families who love a city-meets-seaside vibe will enjoy Yokohama, while culture-loving travelers with older kids can plan Nikko or Kawagoe, both offering deeper glimpses into Japan’s history.
Many tourists also took a day trip from Tokyo to Kyoto, and yes — it’s possible with an early morning Shinkansen and a focused plan. But for families with young kids, Kyoto deserves much more without discomforting kids.
We spent four days in Kyoto with our kids, taking it slow, exploring its temples, and even squeezing in a beautiful day trip to Uji, Japan’s matcha capital. for us, Kyoto itself is such a peaceful, culture-rich base — a place where kids can experience Japan’s traditions at a gentle pace, without the rush.
We managed two-day trips from Tokyo — Mt. Fuji and Kawagoe — and they gave us the perfect balance of adventure and calm.
The rest, like Nikko and Kamakura, are on our “next time” list, when our little ones are older and ready for more walking (and more temples!).
Japan has a way of calling you back, and we already know we’ll return — maybe next year, not during cherry blossom season this time, but when the kids are old enough to dive into the real-life anime and cartoon worlds they love so much.
Whether it’s mountains, temples, or seaside towns that call to you, choose the day trip that fits your family’s rhythm. In Japan, even the simplest journey turns into a story worth remembering — and that’s what makes traveling here with kids so special.
💬 Your Turn!
Which Tokyo day trip would your family pick — or have you already taken one that stole your heart? Drop your favorite memory (or your wishlist spot!) in the comments — we love hearing from you. ❤️