When in Tokyo travellers not only get to enjoy the bustling city but also venture out to nearby prefectures for a dose of adventure and the outdoors.
TOKYO is where cutting-edge innovation meets culture and tradition – a gorgeous metropolis of high-rise neon-lit buildings amidst historical architecture and temples.
The capital of Japan is a fashion and shopping heaven, especially districts such as Harajuku and Shibuya. It is also a foodie paradise – from Michelin-starred restaurants to scrumptious and affordable ramen shops.
It is no wonder then that holidaymakers keep returning to Tokyo; the city has so much to offer, and has two flight entry points – Haneda Airport within Tokyo City and Narita Airport located just on the outskirts.
But did you know, you could take a day trip to many prefectures or regions via bus, train or better yet a short drive from the city.
There is something for everyone when you visit Tokyo.
Enjoy the view of Mt Fuji Kawaguchiko touted to be the closest of the five lakes to Tokyo.
Here’s looking at Mt Fuji
Kawaguchiko in the Yamanashi prefecture is touted to have one of the best views of Mount Fuji and easy access via bus to Fuji’s fifth station should climbers want to size up the world-famous volcano before taking the leap to climb it.
At Kawaguchiko, travellers can choose from an array of views they prefer – across fields of moss phlox, clear lakes or lavender.
Besides that, there is an array of annual flower festivals depending on the season such as cherry blossom in spring, as well as museums, onsens and the Fuji-Q Highland Theme Park to explore.
Take a train or a less than two hour bus ride here:
> By train travellers can take the express train on the JR Chuo Line and change at Otsuki Station for the Fuji Kyuko Line – it is important to note that the JR Rail Pass is accepted for the JR Chuo Line up until Otsuki Station.
> By bus holidaymakers can take a bus to Kawaguchiko Station from Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal.
Here, travellers can explore Kawaguchiko easily or even take a bus to visit any of the other five lakes – Yamanakako, Saiko, Shojiko and Motosuko – touted to offer some of Japan’s finest recreational and cultural immersive experiences.
Nagatoro is a small town with big offerings – enjoy riverside hiking and small town living when visiting this picturesque place.
Hiking and river escape
A small town in the mountains of western Saitama prefecture, travellers can find Nagatoro.
A stone’s throw away from the bustling city of Tokyo, holidaymakers can experience the unspoilt nature via a river boat tour through some rapids or take it up a notch with white water rafting or paragliding,
Besides that, travellers are also able to go for a riverside hiking trail for that added dose of outdoor adventure.
Don’t forget to stop by the small town that houses the Hodosan Mountain Shrine and Iwadatami shopping street for a taste of local produce.
Take the train or drive to this picturesque destination:
> By train travellers can reach the town in an hour. Take the Seibu Line to Seibu-Chichibu Station or the Tobu Line to Yorii Station. After that, switch over to the Chichibu Railway to Nagatoro Station.
> By car take the Kan-Etsu Expressway for about 90 minutes.
For more information, visit here.
