In this guide, we introduce four rewarding day-trip destinations from Tokyo—each rich in character, easy to reach, and home to delicious local specialties:
・Kawagoe – An Edo-period townscape that feels like stepping back in time
・Shibamata – A nostalgic neighborhood with classic Showa-era charm and comforting street food
・Naritasan – A temple town near Narita Airport filled with traditional shops and flavors
・Mt. Takao – A beloved escape into nature, offering hiking trails and peaceful mountain views

Kawagoe is one of the most popular day-trip destinations from Tokyo, located about 30 minutes north in Saitama Prefecture. Once a prosperous merchant town closely connected to Edo (the old name of Tokyo), Kawagoe still preserves the architecture and atmosphere of that era.

Nicknamed “Little Edo” (Koedo), the city is known for its beautifully preserved Edo-style buildings, warehouses, shrines, and temples that line its charming streets. Recognized as one of Japan’s “Historical Cities” and designated as an “Important Preservation District,” Kawagoe offers a rare glimpse into Japan’s past within easy reach of modern Tokyo.

Visitors can stroll along the old warehouse district, admire the iconic Bell Tower, and enjoy traditional sweets and snacks on Candy Alley. Despite its popularity, the area retains a relaxed, nostalgic charm that makes it feel worlds away from the city. It’s easy to see why so many fall in love with Kawagoe on their first visit.

Access
・From Ikebukuro Station: Take the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line (about 33 minutes) or the Tobu Tojo Line (about 45 minutes) to Kawagoe Station
・From Shinjuku Station: Take the Fukutoshin Line (about 46 minutes) or the JR Saikyo Line (about 54 minutes) to Kawagoe Station
・Nearest stations: Hon-Kawagoe Station for the warehouse district and Bell Tower, Kawagoeshi Station for Candy Alley

Highlights
・Kurazukuri no Machinami (Warehouse District)
・Bell Tower
・Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine
・Kawagoe Shrine
・Candy Alley

The first place to visit in Kawagoe is the Kurazukuri no Machinami (Warehouse District), where rows of traditional black-tiled buildings from the Edo period still stand. This preserved street is one of the city’s most iconic sights, offering a vivid sense of history and charm.

Wander through its picturesque side streets filled with shops selling local souvenirs, handmade crafts, and specialty goods. It’s also a paradise for food lovers, with many cafés, traditional sweet shops, and restaurants serving local favorites—perfect for a leisurely stroll with your camera in hand.

Another must-see is the Bell Tower (Toki no Kane), a 16-meter-tall clock tower that has kept time for the town’s residents for more than 400 years. While in the area, be sure to visit Kita-in Temple (Seiya-san Muryōshuji), founded in 830 and historically connected to the Tokugawa family. The temple is designated as one of Japan’s Important Cultural Properties and is a cornerstone of Kawagoe’s spiritual heritage.

Another must-visit spot in Kawagoe is Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine, a sacred site with a history spanning over 1,500 years. Renowned as a shrine of love and harmony, it draws visitors who come to pray for romance, happy marriages, strong family bonds, and smooth relationships with friends and colleagues.

The shrine offers a wide selection of beautifully crafted amulets and charms said to bring good fortune in relationships and help dispel negativity. On weekdays, the peaceful grounds provide a serene setting for quiet reflection and photography.

From July to September, the shrine’s annual Wind Chime Festival transforms the grounds into a dreamy spectacle, with about 2,000 colorful wind chimes swaying in the breeze. Their gentle sound creates a mesmerizing atmosphere that captures the essence of a Japanese summer—an experience that’s both visually stunning and unforgettable.

As you stroll through Kawagoe’s nostalgic streets, be sure to stop by Kashiya Yokocho (Candy Alley), a charming lane lined with traditional confectionery shops. Here you’ll find a delightful assortment of sweets and snacks from across Japan, many beautifully wrapped and perfect for souvenirs or gifts.

One of the area’s most famous shops is Tamariki Seika, a beloved candy store that has been crafting handmade treats for more than a century. Its selection includes everything from colorful molded sugar candies to salted plum sweets and herbal mints, each made with care and tradition. Visitors can also watch the artisans at work in the open workshop, shaping candies right before your eyes. The sight—and the aroma—might just tempt you to take home a little bit of everything to share with friends and family.

Kawagoe is also known for its traditional local foods and snacks, many of which have been passed down through generations. Each dish reflects the city’s long history and craftsmanship, making them all worth a try.

For something uniquely local, visit Ogakiku, a long-established restaurant famous for its ikameshi (squid stuffed with rice). The squid, carefully selected from domestic catches, is tender and flavorful, with a distinctive sauce that brings out the rich umami of the dish. While it may seem adventurous to some visitors, it’s a true taste of old Japan.

If you prefer something sweeter, Kawagoe’s specialty ingredient is the sweet potato. You’ll find countless creative variations around town, from sweet potato cakes shaped like rice balls to bite-sized sweet potato balls, ice cream, shaved ice, and even crispy sweet potato chips. Don’t miss the sweet potato soba, a local favorite that combines the earthy sweetness of the vegetable with the delicate flavor of handmade noodles.

When you need a break from exploring, stop by Tsubakiya Foot Spa Tearoom, a charming café where you can enjoy dessert while soaking your tired feet in a warm foot bath. Pair a coffee or tea with a traditional Japanese-style dessert featuring matcha ice cream, candied fruits, and red bean paste. It’s a perfect way to relax and refresh before continuing your stroll through this picturesque town.

In Kawagoe, you can take your visit to the next level by renting a kimono and immersing yourself in the town’s nostalgic atmosphere. Several rental shops offer hundreds of kimono styles, patterns, and colors, along with matching obi belts, bags, and footwear to complete the look. Friendly staff are on hand to help you dress and style your hair for a truly authentic experience.

Strolling through Kawagoe’s Edo-style streets in kimono creates a picture-perfect moment that feels both timeless and magical. The town’s warm, historical charm provides the ideal backdrop for unforgettable photos—and memories that beautifully blend Japan’s past with the present.

Shibamata sits on Tokyo’s northeast side, about 30 minutes from the center. It is known for its retro shitamachi atmosphere, historic temples and gardens, and classic street snacks. The area has become increasingly popular with international visitors because it delivers the Old Tokyo many people imagine, yet it still feels local and lived in.

Long before it drew travelers from abroad, Shibamata was beloved by Tokyoites as the setting of the classic film series It’s Tough Being a Man. Step out of the station and you are immediately on a stone-paved approach lined with traditional shops, making it easy to script your own movie-like stroll.

Access
・From Ueno Station: Take the Keisei Line to Keisei Takasago, transfer to the Keisei Kanamachi Line, and get off at Shibamata Station.

Highlights
・Shibamata Old Street
・Shibamata Taishakuten Temple
・Yamamoto-Tei Garden
・Tora san Museum

As soon as you step out of Shibamata Station, you’ll find yourself on the charming old shopping street that marks the start of your visit. Though short, this lively street is packed with traditional shops selling handmade goods, nostalgic snacks, and old-style crafts. Many stores display classic items like old weighing scales and wooden signs, evoking the warmth and simplicity of Tokyo’s past. Taking a leisurely stroll here is one of the great pleasures of Shibamata.

At the end of the street stands the grand Shibamata Taishakuten Temple, originally founded around 1629. The temple is admired for its intricate wood carvings created by master artisans and for its spacious Japanese garden, a peaceful place for reflection and photography.

Nearby is Yamamoto-Tei Garden, once the residence of Einosuke Yamamoto, a Tokyo businessman and founder of a camera parts factory. The building blends Western and Japanese architectural elements from the Taisho period, and its tranquil garden has earned high praise, ranking third in the Shiosai Ranking by the U.S.-based magazine Sukiya Living: The Journal of Japanese Gardening. Visitors can enjoy matcha and traditional sweets while admiring the view from tatami rooms overlooking the garden.

Finally, don’t miss the Tora-san Museum, which celebrates the beloved film series It’s Tough Being a Man, set in Shibamata. Even if you haven’t seen the films, the museum offers a fascinating look into everyday life in Japan’s past through recreated scenes, models, and interactive exhibits that make the experience engaging for all ages.

Lining the main street of Shibamata are countless traditional eateries and snack shops serving delicious local specialties. Among them, Ebisu-ya stands out as a signature restaurant that dates back to the Edo period. The current wooden building, constructed in the Taisho era, exudes old-world charm and overlooks a serene garden pond. Diners can savor classic Japanese dishes while soaking in the nostalgic atmosphere that feels like stepping back in time.

For those craving a satisfying Japanese rice bowl, Yamatoya is the place to go. Their popular tendon features two large pieces of crispy prawn and vegetable tempura drizzled with sweet sauce—a perfect combination that keeps visitors coming back for more.

After your meal, be sure to stop by Takagiya, a century-old dango shop famous for its kusa dango—soft rice dumplings topped with rich red bean paste. The chewy texture and gentle sweetness make it an irresistible treat, and the shop’s rustic wooden façade adds to the charm.

Before you leave, don’t forget to pick up some freshly baked rice crackers from Asanoya, one of Shibamata’s most beloved stores. Made by hand using traditional methods and baked right in the shop, these crisp, savory senbei make excellent souvenirs—or the perfect snack to enjoy as you continue your stroll.

If you’re flying into or out of Narita Airport, there’s no better way to begin or end your Japan journey than with a visit to the nearby town of Narita. It’s also an ideal option for travelers on longer layovers—offering a chance to shop, dine, and experience authentic Japanese culture without straying far from the airport.

Just a 10-minute drive from Narita Airport, the Naritasan Omotesando area is a charming old merchant street dating back to the Edo period. The traditional wooden buildings, local shops, and peaceful atmosphere make it a delightful place to explore. A leisurely stroll along this street leads to Naritasan Shinshoji Temple, one of Japan’s most important cultural properties and a must-visit for its grand temple grounds and photo-worthy scenery.

Access
・From JR Shinjuku, Ikebukuro, or Ueno: Take a train to JR Narita Station or Keisei Narita Station (about 1 hour 30 minutes)

Highlights
・Naritasan Omotesando Street
・Naritasan Shinshoji Temple

Naritasan Omotesando Street stretches from JR Narita Station and Keisei Narita Station all the way to Naritasan Shinshoji Temple, about one kilometer away. The entire route is steeped in traditional Japanese charm, lined with more than 100 shops and restaurants. Visitors can browse handmade crafts, local groceries, traditional pharmacies, sake shops, and Japanese-style dessert cafés. Whether you’re after local delicacies, souvenirs, or authentic handmade goods, this street is a wonderful place to wander and shop before heading home.

At the end of the street stands Naritasan Shinshoji Temple, a revered Buddhist temple with over 1,000 years of history. It is one of Japan’s major pilgrimage sites, especially popular during the New Year when visitors come to pray for prosperity, good fortune, and business success. There’s also a special area within the temple grounds dedicated to prayers for love and relationships—another reason this sacred site continues to attract both locals and travelers year-round.

One of the most beloved stops along Naritasan Omotesando is Kawatoyo, a long-established restaurant specializing in grilled eel and rice. Skilled chefs prepare fresh domestic eel daily, grilling each piece over charcoal until tender and aromatic. The result is a perfectly balanced dish with a rich, smoky flavor that fills the air and draws visitors from near and far. The restaurant’s traditional atmosphere and timeless flavors make it a favorite among both locals and travelers.

If you prefer sushi, Edokko is another excellent choice. Known for its exceptionally fresh seafood and delicate balance of flavors, it offers a true taste of Edo-style sushi that showcases the natural sweetness of each ingredient.

For dessert, stop by Miyoshiya, a charming confectionery that has been delighting guests for over a century. Its handmade dumplings—particularly the baked and red bean varieties—are a must-try, with every batch of red bean paste prepared in-house. Visitors can also enjoy a relaxing Japanese-style afternoon tea here, savoring traditional sweets while seated indoors with a view of the serene Japanese garden or in the airy semi-outdoor seating area.

Located in the western suburbs of Tokyo, Mt. Takao is a scenic retreat celebrated for its lush forests, peaceful hiking trails, and accessibility. Though modest in height, it offers an abundance of natural beauty and well-maintained facilities, making it a favorite destination for both seasoned hikers and casual visitors. On weekends and holidays, it’s especially popular with Tokyo residents seeking a refreshing escape from the city. Autumn is a particularly spectacular time to visit, when the slopes come alive with vivid shades of gold, crimson, and orange.

Visitors can choose from several hiking routes or take the cable car for a relaxing ascent to the summit. Along the way, you’ll find atmospheric temples, gardens, shops, and scenic rest areas perfect for soaking in the mountain’s tranquil charm. Mt. Takao truly offers one of the most satisfying and easily accessible day trips from Tokyo.

Access
・From Shinjuku, Ikebukuro, or Ueno: Take the Keio Line to Takaosanguchi Station (about 1 hour 30 minutes)

Highlights
・TAKAO 599 MUSEUM
・Yakuou-in Temple
・Mt. Takao Monkey Park & Wildflower Garden
・Keio Takaosan Onsen Gokurakuyu

There are many fascinating spots to explore around Mt. Takao, but the following four are among the most popular and representative.

Near both Takaosanguchi Station and Kiyotaki Station (the base station for the cable car) is the TAKAO 599 MUSEUM, a free museum dedicated to the mountain’s rich natural environment. Its beautifully designed exhibits showcase the flowers, trees, and insects that thrive on Mt. Takao throughout the four seasons. With its artistic presentation and immersive displays, the museum offers visitors a deeper appreciation of the mountain’s biodiversity and quiet beauty.

Further up the mountain along one of the main hiking trails lies Yakuo-in Temple, a sacred site with a history spanning nearly 1,260 years. The temple is known as a spiritual “power spot,” where many visitors come to pray for love, wealth, safety, and good fortune. Surrounded by forest and filled with centuries of devotion, it remains one of the most spiritually significant places in the region.

When you reach the summit of Mt. Takao, you’ll be greeted with a breathtaking panoramic view. On one side stretch the skyscrapers of Tokyo, while the other opens to layers of forested hills—and on clear days, you can even spot the majestic peak of Mt. Fuji or the distant coastline near Kamakura. To help identify the landmarks and understand more about the area’s natural surroundings, stop by the Takao Tourism Center, which offers detailed information and exhibits about the region.

Another highlight is the Mt. Takao Monkey Park & Wildflower Garden, home to around 70 Japanese macaques. The monkeys live in an open environment, allowing visitors to observe their natural behaviors up close. The adjoining garden features a colorful array of seasonal wildflowers, making it a relaxing stop for nature lovers and families alike.

At the end of your Mt. Takao adventure, unwind at Keio Takaosan Onsen Gokurakuyu, a relaxing hot spring facility conveniently located right next to Takaosanguchi Station. It’s the perfect way to soothe tired legs and refresh your mind after a day of exploring. The complex offers a variety of baths, including open-air hot springs surrounded by nature, carbonated baths, and stone baths where you can rest comfortably while enjoying the tranquil atmosphere. There’s also an on-site restaurant where you can savor local specialties inspired by the flavors of Mt. Takao.

While exploring the exhibits at the TAKAO 599 MUSEUM, take a moment to relax at the 599CAFE, which serves light meals, desserts, and specialty siphon-brewed coffee. It’s an ideal spot to pause before or after your hike and enjoy a calm, modern space surrounded by nature.

Along the mountain trails, several charming tea houses invite visitors to rest and recharge. These cozy spots offer freshly made dumplings, tea, and other simple snacks that give you a little boost for the climb. Near the summit, the Yamabiko Tea House offers a lovely setting surrounded by lush forest, with windows framing the serene greenery of Mt. Takao. Be sure to try their warm and delicate soba noodles, a comforting favorite among hikers.

For those who prefer to celebrate their hike with a drink, the Mt. Takao Beer Garden is the perfect place to unwind. Here, you can enjoy beers from major brands alongside wine, Japanese sake, shochu, and non-alcoholic options. A buffet featuring Japanese, Western, and Chinese dishes ensures you won’t leave hungry. Whether by day or at night, the views from the restaurant are spectacular, making it a fitting finale to your Mt. Takao adventure.

During your visit to Tokyo, be sure to round off your vacation with a day trip to the suburbs! Be sure to include at least one of these four spots in your next trip itinerary and explore a new, unique area!