Ultimate Guide to Tokyo Area: Natural Spots for Relaxation and Adventure

• Table of Contents
• Best hiking trails near Tokyo
• Peaceful parks and gardens to relax in
• Parks for waterfront views and recreation
• Amazing coastal retreats and beaches
• Hidden gems and lesser known natural spots
• Adventure activities for thrill seekers
• Seasonal Escapes and Unique Experiences
• Relax and Explore: Tokyo Nature Retreat Awaits
• FAQ

Best hiking trails near Tokyo

Mount Takao

Location: Hachioji City, Tokyo

Distance from Tokyo: About 1 hour by train

Attractions: Rich biodiversity, spectacular views, cultural landmarks

Mount Takao is one of Tokyo's most accessible and popular hiking spots, combining natural beauty with cultural heritage. Although it stands at 599 metres above sea level, it's a great escape from the city. With eight well-maintained trails, there's something for everyone, from easy walks to more challenging routes.

The most popular route, Trail 1, passes through lush forest and offers spectacular views of Tokyo on a clear day, passing by Yakuo-in Temple, an important spiritual site founded in 744. Cable cars and chairlifts make it easy to get up and down the mountain, making it suitable for all fitness levels.

Mount Takao

Takaocho, Hachioji City, Tokyo Prefecture 193-0844

Mount Takao, which belongs to Hachioji City, Tokyo, is located about 50 kilometers southeast of the Kanto Mountains, from the center of Tokyo. Takao is a Japanese mountain located in Hachioji, Tokyo, and one of the most visited mountains in Tokyo. At the foot of Mt. Takao, from Kiyotaki Station to Mt. Takaosan Station on the hillside, there is a cable car that runs up about 1,000 meters. You can easily reach the middle of Mt. Takao in about 6 minutes while looking out over the nature of Mt. Takao. On Mt. Takao, there is a legend about Tengu, a monster that appears in the mountains. This legend, combined with the nature and atmosphere of Mt. Takao, is an attractive factor for those who are interested in mountain worship and yokai. While climbing Mt. Takao, there are also shops that sell goods and food with Tengu images. In addition, there are places where tengu monuments and sculptures are installed on the summit.

Mount Mitake

Location: Ome City, Tokyo

Distance from Tokyo: About 1.5 hours by train

Highlights: Scenic forest trails, ancient shrines, stunning views

Located within Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park, Mount Mitake is a paradise for nature lovers and spiritual seekers. The 929-metre mountain features well-maintained trails lined with dense forests, rock formations and waterfalls.

A hike to the summit leads to Musashi Mitake Shrine, a centuries-old sacred shrine believed to bestow protection and blessings. The rock garden is a tranquil spot with moss-covered rocks and clear streams, perfect for a peaceful retreat. For those not up for hiking, a cable car makes it easy to access the summit.

Mount Tsukuba

Location: Tsukuba City, Ibaraki Prefecture

Distance from Tokyo: Approximately 2 hours by train

Attractions: Two peaks, panoramic views, diverse flora

Mount Tsukuba is famous for its twin peaks, Mount Nantai and Mount Nantai, which offer a contrasting view to the Tokyo cityscape. At 877 metres above sea level, it is not as tall as other mountains, but it offers spectacular views of the Kanto Plain and beyond. The mountain is rich in mythology and is known as a sacred place in the Shinto faith.

Several trails lead to the summit, the most popular being the Tsukuba-san Shrine Trail. There are also cable cars and ropeways to the summit, making it easily accessible for families and casual hikers. In spring, azaleas bloom all over the mountain, adding color to the scenery.

Mount Tsukuba

Tsukuba, Tsukuba City, Ibaraki Prefecture 300-4352

Peaceful parks and gardens to relax in

Showa Memorial Park

Location: Tachikawa City, Tokyo

Distance from Tokyo: About 40 minutes by train

Attractions: Extensive green space, seasonal floral displays, recreational facilities

Showa Memorial Park in Tachikawa offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. The sprawling 160-hectare site features vast lawns, a tranquil lake and beautifully landscaped gardens. Enjoy cherry blossoms in the spring and vibrant foliage in the fall.

The park also has bike trails, boat rentals, and picnic areas, making it the perfect place for a relaxing day with family and friends. Don't miss the traditional Japanese gardens, where you can cross the Ninagawa River, cross quaint bridges, and enjoy the tranquil beauty of the koi ponds and tea houses.

Showa Kinen Park

3173 Midoricho, Tachikawa, Tokyo

Showa Kinen Park is a national park that opened in 1983. It straddles Akishima and Tachikawa cities on the outskirts of Tokyo. The park is home to a variety of facilities, including a cultural center, a cafe, a Japanese garden, a dog run, a grassy plain, and a barbecue garden, and is visited by many people throughout the year. You can experience the changing seasons through the flowers that bloom, such as cherry blossoms and tulips in spring, hydrangeas and sunflowers in summer, and cosmos in autumn. Photo by Pixta

Jindaiji Botanical Gardens

Location: Chofu City, Tokyo

Distance from Tokyo: About 1 hour by train

Attractions: Extensive plant collection, rose garden, tranquil atmosphere

Located in Chofu, Jindaiji Botanical Gardens is a paradise for plant lovers and those seeking a tranquil retreat. Spanning 42 hectares, the gardens are home to over 100,000 species of plants and feature a spectacular rose garden with over 5,000 roses that bloom in the spring and fall.

You can wander through thematic sections such as the Japanese Garden, Tropical Plants, and European Plants, or relax in a tranquil spot by the pond. Next to the gardens is one of Tokyo's oldest temples, Jindaiji Temple, adding a cultural element to your visit.

Kiyosumi Garden

Location: Koto-ku, Tokyo

Distance from Tokyo: About 30 minutes by train

Attractions: Traditional Japanese garden design, teahouse, tranquil pond

Kiyosumi Garden is a beautifully preserved garden from the Edo period that offers a tranquil retreat in the heart of Tokyo. Featuring a vast central pond, carefully placed rocks and manicured trees, it reflects the principles of traditional Japanese garden design. A walking path around the pond allows visitors to enjoy the garden's scenic beauty.

A perfect place to enjoy tea in a traditional teahouse overlooking the water, Kiyosumi Garden is an ideal place to immerse yourself in the art of Japanese garden design.

Parks for waterfront views and recreation

Okutama

Location: Nishitama District, Tokyo

Distance from Tokyo: Approximately 2 hours by train

Attractions: Clear streams, canoeing, fishing, hiking trails

Located on the westernmost edge of Tokyo, Okutama is a natural playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Known for its crystal clear streams and primeval forest lakes, it is a popular spot for water activities such as canoeing, kayaking and fishing.

In summer, you can enjoy a refreshing canoe ride on the Tama River with its gentle rapids and beautiful scenery. There are many hiking trails around Lake Okutama, offering beautiful views of the water and lush forest scenery. Perfect for those seeking adventure or tranquility.

Tama River

Location: Multiple access points in Tokyo

Distance from Tokyo: Easily accessible by train

Attractions: Riverside cycling, picnic spots, fishing, bird watching

Flowing through the heart of Tokyo, the Tama River offers a pleasant escape for those looking for outdoor activities close to the city. Bike paths and walkways line the riverbanks, offering scenic views perfect for a leisurely stroll or bike ride. There are also numerous parks along the river where you can enjoy picnics, BBQs, and fishing.

The Tama River area is also a paradise for bird lovers, as many different bird species visit throughout the year. Easy access and abundant recreational facilities make the Tama River a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.

Tamagawadai Park

1-63-1 Denenchofu, Ota Ward, Tokyo

Lake Sagami

Location: Sagamihara City, Kanagawa Prefecture

Distance from Tokyo: About 1.5 hours by train

Attractions: Water sports, camping, scenic boating

Located in the hills of Kanagawa Prefecture, Lake Sagami is a tranquil hideaway and a place to enjoy a variety of water activities. The calm waters are perfect for boating, paddle boarding and fishing. For those looking to stay on land, the surrounding campgrounds, hiking trails and picnic spots make it the perfect destination for a weekend getaway.

Spectacular fireworks displays light up the night sky in the summer, casting a spell on all who visit. Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, Lake Sagami offers a perfect location to enjoy nature.

Amazing coastal retreats and beaches

Enoshima

Location: Fujisawa City, Kanagawa Prefecture

Distance from Tokyo: About 1.5 hours by train

Attractions: Coastal scenery, beaches, historical sites

Enoshima, a small, remote island connected to the mainland by bridge, is a fascinating mix of natural beauty and cultural attractions. The island is ringed by rocky coastlines and sandy beaches, perfect for sunbathing, swimming and exploring the low tide pools.

Enoshima Sea Candle is a lighthouse and observation tower that offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Mount Fuji on a clear day. The island is also home to Enoshima Shrine, a historic site with beautiful gardens. Scenic beauty and cultural richness combine to make Enoshima a must-visit spot for a seaside escape.

Enoshima

251-0036 1-9 Enoshima, Fujisawa City, Kanagawa Prefecture

It is a small island located on the Shonan coast of Kanagawa Prefecture.

Kamakura

Location: Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture

Distance from Tokyo: About 1 hour by train

Attractions: Historic temples, sandy beaches, surfing spots

Steeped in history, Kamakura is the perfect blend of cultural exploration and beach relaxation. Known for its ancient temples and iconic Great Buddha, Kamakura is also home to beautiful beaches such as Yuigahama and Zaimokuza, where you can swim, sunbathe or surf.

Scenic coastal walks, such as the Great Buddha Hiking Trail, are the perfect way to enjoy the ocean and surrounding scenery. After a day at the beach, explore the charming streets lined with traditional shops and cafes. Kamakura's unique combination of cultural heritage and natural beauty makes it the perfect destination for a seaside escape.

Kamakura

1-15 Onaricho, Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture 248-0012

Odaiba Beach

Location: Minato-ku, Tokyo

Distance from Tokyo: Easily accessible by train

Attractions: Urban beaches, water activities, shopping and entertainment

Located in the heart of Tokyo Bay, Odaiba Beach offers an urban beach experience without leaving the city. On the sand, you'll find the Rainbow Bridge and Tokyo skyline right in front of you, making it the perfect spot to enjoy the waterside views.

Odaiba is also an entertainment and shopping hub, with attractions such as Odaiba Seaside Park, AquaCity Odaiba and the futuristic TeamLab Borderless Digital Art Museum. Whether you want to relax on the beach or explore the vibrant urban scene, Odaiba offers a diverse range of activities.

Odaiba Marine Park

1-4, Daiba, Minato-ku, Tokyo 135-0091

Facing Tokyo Bay, Odaiba Marine Park is an urban beach with an artificial sandy beach and a spacious lawn. The view of the Rainbow Bridge and the Statue of Liberty is beautiful day or night, and is especially spectacular at dusk. There are plenty of shopping malls, restaurants, and entertainment facilities in the surrounding area, so you can have fun all day long. There are many ways to enjoy the park, from playing beach volleyball or having a picnic with friends to taking photos with the night view in the background. (Photo by AC)

Hidden gems and lesser known natural spots

Hinohara Village

Location: Nishitama District, Tokyo

Distance from Tokyo: Approximately 2 hours by train and bus

Attractions: Waterfalls, hiking trails, traditional village life

Tucked away in the mountains west of Tokyo, Hinohara Village is a hidden gem offering a glimpse into traditional rural life. The village is surrounded by lush forests and dotted with beautiful waterfalls, such as the picturesque Hokke Falls.

The area has numerous hiking trails where you can explore the beautiful nature and encounter the local wildlife. Hinohara's tranquil setting and charming village atmosphere provide the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Experience the warmth of Japanese hospitality by visiting local inns and shops and sample the region's delicacies.

Todoroki Valley

Location: Setagaya Ward, Tokyo

Distance from Tokyo: About 30 minutes by train

Attractions: Quiet valleys, riverside walks, bamboo forests

Todoroki Valley is an unexpected hideaway within bustling Setagaya Ward, offering a surprising retreat within the city limits. This tranquil valley stretches for approximately one kilometre along the Yazawa River and offers a peaceful escape with lush greenery, flowing streams and tranquil walking trails.

Bamboo forests and small waterfalls add to the natural charm of the valley, making it hard to believe you're still in Tokyo. The valley is also home to Todoroki Fudosonji Temple, providing visitors with a sense of spiritual tranquility. Todoroki Valley is a perfect spot for a relaxing stroll and a brief respite from city life.

Mount Kumotori

Location: Okutama Town, Tokyo

Distance from Tokyo: 3 hours by train and bus

Attractions: Tokyo's highest peak, panoramic views, challenging hikes

Mount Kumotori is the highest mountain in Tokyo at 2,017 metres above sea level and offers experienced climbers a challenging yet rewarding hike. The trail to the summit passes through dense forests, over rocky ridges, past flowing mountain streams and offers breathtaking views over the Kanto region.

On a clear day, you can see Mount Fuji in the distance. The hike can be completed in one day or split into a two-day adventure that includes an overnight stay in a mountain hut. The rugged terrain on Mount Kumotori offers a truly outdoor experience, completely away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Adventure activities for thrill seekers

Tandem Paragliding

Location: Various locations around Tokyo

Distance from Tokyo: Varies

Highlights: Aerial views, adrenaline rush, unique experience

For those seeking an exciting adventure, paragliding offers a unique way to experience Tokyo's natural beauty from the sky. Flying tandem with an experienced instructor, you'll enjoy the thrill of scenic flight and beautiful aerial views.

Popular paragliding sites around Tokyo include the mountainous areas of Saitama and Yamanashi prefectures, where you can glide over forests, rivers, and valleys. Whether you're a beginner or experienced, paragliding offers an unforgettable adventure that combines the excitement of flight with the tranquility of floating above the world.

Rock Climbing and Bouldering

Location: Various indoor and outdoor sites around Tokyo

Distance from Tokyo: Varies

Reasons to visit: Physical challenge, variety of climbing routes, community spirit

Tokyo and its surrounding areas offer a wealth of opportunities for rock climbing and bouldering enthusiasts. Indoor climbing gyms like T-Wall and B-Pump offer a variety of routes and challenges suitable for all skill levels.

For those who prefer outdoor climbing, places like Mitake and Ogawayama offer a variety of rock faces and boulders in beautiful natural surroundings and are popular with many climbers. Rock climbing and bouldering are not only great physical training, but they also foster community and camaraderie among climbers.

Cycling Route

Location: Tokyo and surrounding areas

Distance from Tokyo: Depends on route

Highlights: Scenic landscapes, diverse terrain, cycling-friendly infrastructure

Cycling is a great way to enjoy the diverse scenery around Tokyo. There's an extensive cycling infrastructure that makes it easy to get around the city or venture into the countryside. Popular routes include the Arakawa Cycling Road, which offers scenic riverside views, and the Tama River Cycling Road, which passes through several wards and connects to parks and recreational areas.

For a more challenging adventure, the mountain roads of Okutama and the scenic coastal routes of the Miura Peninsula offer spectacular views and exciting rides. From casual cyclists to experienced riders, Tokyo's cycling routes have something for everyone.

Visit some of Nara's most popular attractions, including Todaiji Temple and Kasuga Taisha Shrine, but also visit Kikuichi, the famous manufacturer of Japanese swords and chef's knives, to see the art of sword-making first-hand! This tour departs at 10:00 AM and usually finishes between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM. Along the way, your guide will provide useful tips and advice on how to make the most of your time in Nara, creating an unforgettable, fun and informative outdoor experience.

Take a Private Cycling Tour in Nara

Seasonal Escapes and Unique Experiences

Spring in Tokyo is synonymous with cherry blossoms, and the city has countless spots to enjoy these ephemeral flowers. Parks such as Ueno Park, Shinjuku Gyoen, and Chidorigafuchi are famous for their cherry blossoms and are bustling with people hosting cherry blossom viewing parties.

Besides cherry blossoms, you can enjoy seasonal flowers like azaleas and irises at Nezu Shrine and gardens like Koishikawa Korakuen. Spring is also the time of year when many flower festivals and markets are held to celebrate the beauty of nature and the arrival of warmer weather. Whether you're strolling through the parks or joining a flower-viewing gathering, spring in Tokyo is a season of new beginnings and joy.

Autumn leaves

Autumn in Tokyo is characterised by vibrant colours and crisp cool air, making it the perfect time for nature walks. Parks such as Rikugien Garden and Hibiya Park are blanketed in vibrant red, orange and yellow foliage, providing a beautiful backdrop for leisurely strolls and photo ops.

The mountainous regions of Mount Takao and Mount Mitake are also breathtaking with their vibrant autumn foliage and offer hiking trails through the forests. Autumn is also the season for harvest festivals and festivals celebrating the beauty of nature, adding a cultural dimension to outdoor adventures. Combining natural beauty with cultural richness, autumn is a magical time to explore the areas around Tokyo.

Winter Snow Adventure

In winter, the mountainous areas around Tokyo are transformed into snowy wonderlands with a wide range of activities for snow lovers. Ski resorts such as Karuizawa and Hakuba offer fantastic facilities catering for beginners to advanced skiers, while for a more relaxing experience, snowshoeing and winter hiking trails offer the opportunity to explore the tranquil beauty of snow-covered forests and valleys.

After a day of playing in the snow, you can relax in one of the many hot springs dotted around the area, where you can enjoy the winter scenery while soaking in the warm, mineral-rich waters. Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, the Tokyo area in the winter offers the perfect blend of both.

Relax and Explore: Tokyo Nature Retreat Awaits

The areas surrounding Tokyo are filled with natural wonders, ranging from tranquil parks and scenic rivers to challenging hikes and thrilling adventure activities, each offering a unique escape from the bustle of the city and the opportunity to reconnect with nature.

Whether you seek the tranquil beauty of a traditional garden, the excitement of a coastal adventure or the challenge of a mountain trail, nature spots near Tokyo have something for everyone.

Experience canyoning in Takayama

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Welcome to the ultimate half-day adventure in the high mountains! An unforgettable journey of waterfall climbing, waterfall trekking and canyoning. We provide you with special wetsuits and life jackets to wear over your swimsuit. Our expert guides will take you through amazing valleys, climb towering waterfalls and trek along sparkling streams. As you make your way through nature's playground, you will be amazed by the breathtaking views of the high mountains. The crystal clear waters will refresh and invigorate your mind and body, leaving you feeling rejuvenated.

FAQ

Take the Keio Line from Shinjuku Station to Takaosanguchi Station, which takes about 50 minutes. At Mount Takao, you can enjoy hiking trails, visit Yakuoin Temple, take a scenic cable car ride, and enjoy panoramic views of Tokyo and Mount Fuji on a clear day.

Popular nature spots near Tokyo include Mount Takao, Okutama, Kamakura, Hakone and Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park, each offering unique landscapes and activities, from hiking and hot springs to historic temples and beautiful scenery.

Some lesser known spots include Chiba's Nokogiriyama, which offers dramatic cliffs and panoramic views; Enoshima, with its beautiful coastline and caves; and Todoroki Valley in Setagaya, which offers tranquil nature walks near the city.