If you’re visiting Japan this May or June, it’s the perfect time to venture beyond Tokyo and discover stunning day trip destinations—without the crowds. Early summer offers comfortable temperatures, beautiful green landscapes, and the last blooms of spring flowers.
Whether you’re looking for nature, culture, or a relaxing escape, here are 5 unforgettable day trips from Tokyo to add to your early summer adventure, made easy with a private car and local driver from Hire Taxi Japan.
5 Top Day Trips from Tokyo
1. Mount Fuji & Lake Kawaguchiko – Iconic Views in Fresh Green
📍 Approx. 2 hours from Tokyo
Early summer around Mount Fuji offers breathtaking sights of lush greenery surrounding the famous peak. Lake Kawaguchiko is especially beautiful in May and early June, with clear skies and fresh mountain air.
Top Highlights:
- Stroll along Kawaguchiko North Shore for lakeside Fuji views.
- Visit Oishi Park for late-blooming flowers and scenic gardens.
- Explore the charming traditional village at Iyashi no Sato.
Private Car Tip: Skip complicated train transfers—your driver can guide you to the best Fuji viewpoints at the perfect time of day for photos.
2. Hakone – Hot Springs, Ropeways, and Summer Scenery
📍 Approx. 1.5 hours from Tokyo
Hakone’s mountain retreat is an ideal day trip for relaxing away from the city. In early summer, the Hakone area bursts with lush greenery and colorful hydrangeas.
Top Highlights:
- Ride the Hakone Ropeway for panoramic views of Mt. Fuji and volcanic landscapes.
- Cruise Lake Ashi by pirate ship and enjoy peaceful lakeside walks.
- Relax in a private onsen (hot spring) with an outdoor bath surrounded by fresh greenery.
Private Car Tip: Travel between Hakone’s sightseeing areas smoothly with door-to-door service—no waiting for buses or carrying luggage.
3. Nikko – World Heritage Sites and Nature Escapes
📍 Approx. 2.5 hours from Tokyo
Step back in time with a day trip to Nikko, home to stunning shrines, waterfalls, and forested mountains. Early summer offers cool breezes and vibrant green landscapes.
Top Highlights:
- Visit the lavish UNESCO World Heritage Site of Toshogu Shrine.
- Walk across Shinkyo Bridge, surrounded by lush forest views.
- Take a short drive to Kegon Falls, one of Japan’s top natural waterfalls.
Private Car Tip: A private transfer lets you visit both historic sites and scenic nature spots comfortably in one day.
4. Kamakura & Enoshima – Coastal Charm and Hydrangea Season
📍 Approx. 1 hour from Tokyo
If you love temple hopping mixed with ocean breezes, Kamakura and Enoshima are perfect. June is especially famous for beautiful hydrangea blooms.
Top Highlights:
- Admire the Great Buddha of Kamakura (Daibutsu).
- Visit Hase-dera Temple, known for its stunning hydrangea garden.
- Enjoy Enoshima Island’s seaside cafes and scenic coastal walks.
Private Car Tip: Your driver can create a flexible route to cover Kamakura’s must-sees and finish with a sunset by the beach.
5. Kawagoe – Little Edo Town Charm
📍 Approx. 1 hour from Tokyo
Experience a slice of old Japan in Kawagoe, known as “Little Edo.” Early summer brings lively street scenes, traditional sweets, and warm festive vibes.
Top Highlights:
- Wander Kurazukuri Street, lined with Edo-era clay warehouses.
- Try Kawagoe’s famous sweet potato treats and matcha desserts.
- Visit Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine, decorated with seasonal wind chimes in June.
Private Car Tip: Relax on the drive to Kawagoe and back, and easily bring back souvenirs without worrying about public transport.
Take Day Trips from Tokyo with Us This Early Summer
With Hire Taxi Japan, you can explore these beautiful destinations with maximum comfort, flexibility, and style:
- English-speaking drivers
- Private charters tailored to your schedule
- Door-to-door pick-ups and drop-offs
- Spacious vehicles for families, couples, or groups
Avoid crowded trains and stressful transfers—book your Early Summer Escape today and receive 10% off all tours and transfers booked for May and June!
Ready to experience Japan at its best? Book your private day trip with Hire Taxi Japan now!
