7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Tokyo

As a digital nomad living in Tokyo, you're already immersed in one of the world's most vibrant cities. However, even the most dedicated urbanite needs a break from the hustle and bustle. Fortunately, Tokyo's location offers a plethora of weekend getaways, ranging from the popular to the hidden gems. Whether you're looking for a cultural excursion, a nature retreat, or an off-the-beaten-path adventure, these seven destinations provide the perfect escape.

Hakone

Hakone is a popular hot spring resort area within the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, known for its stunning views of Mount Fuji and a plethora of onsen (hot springs). Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, boating on Lake Ashi, and exploring the Hakone Open-Air Museum. The area is also rich in history, with landmarks like the Hakone Shrine and the old Tokaido Road.

How to Get There: The easiest way to reach Hakone is by taking the Odakyu Electric Railway from Shinjuku Station to Hakone-Yumoto Station, which takes about 85 minutes with the "Romancecar" express service.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the Hakone Ropeway, which offers breathtaking views of the volcanic valley and Mount Fuji on clear days.

Where to Stay: Hakone has many ryokan (traditional inns) with onsen facilities, such as Hakone Ginyu, which features rooms with private hot spring baths and mountain views.

Where to Eat: Try the local specialty, Hakone soba noodles, at restaurants like Hatsuhana Soba Honten, known for their freshly made buckwheat noodles.

Nikko

Nikko, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a must-visit for its rich history and stunning natural beauty. The area is home to the ornate Toshogu Shrine, the mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu, and the scenic Kegon Falls. Nature lovers can explore the hiking trails in Nikko National Park, while history buffs will appreciate the traditional architecture and Shinkyo Bridge.

How to Get There: Nikko is accessible via the Tobu Railway from Asakusa Station to Tobu-Nikko Station, taking about two hours.

Travel Tip: Visit the nearby Lake Chuzenji and the picturesque Italian Embassy Villa Memorial Park.

Where to Stay: The Nikko Kanaya Hotel is one of the oldest Western-style hotels in Japan, offering a blend of history and comfort.

Where to Eat: Enjoy yuba (tofu skin) dishes, a local delicacy, at Hippari Dako, a cozy eatery with a friendly atmosphere.

Kamakura

Kamakura is a coastal town steeped in history, once the political center of medieval Japan. Today, it's a serene escape with numerous temples, shrines, and the iconic Great Buddha statue. The town also offers sandy beaches and hiking trails, such as the popular Daibutsu Hiking Course, which connects several temples and shrines.

How to Get There: Kamakura is about an hour away from Tokyo by train, with direct services available from Shinjuku and Tokyo Stations.

Travel Tip: Take time to stroll along Komachi Street, known for its quaint shops and street food offerings.

Where to Stay: Guesthouse Kamakura Zen-ji offers a cozy and traditional experience, just a short walk from the main attractions.

Where to Eat: Slurp up some Kamakura-style shirasu (whitebait) donburi at Koshigoe Maruhiro, a local favorite.

Enoshima

Enoshima is a small island off the coast, connected to the mainland by a bridge. It's a great spot for a beach day or exploring the Enoshima Shrine complex. The Enoshima Sea Candle lighthouse offers panoramic views, and the Iwaya Caves are a natural wonder. The island is also known for its spas and botanical garden.

How to Get There: Take the Odakyu Line to Fujisawa Station and transfer to the Enoden Line to reach Enoshima Station, which takes about 1.5 hours from Tokyo.

Travel Tip: Visit during low tide to explore the tidal pools and rock formations along the coast.

Where to Stay: Enoshima Guest House 134 has a laid-back vibe and is conveniently located for island exploration.

Where to Eat: Tobiccho Honten is famous for its fresh seafood, especially the shirasu-don.

Kawagoe

Kawagoe, known as "Little Edo," is a charming town that retains the atmosphere of an old Japanese city, with its well-preserved warehouse district and bell tower. Visitors can enjoy a walk through history, sampling traditional sweets and visiting ancient temples. The Kawagoe Festival, held in October, is a vibrant event not to be missed.

How to Get There: Kawagoe is just 30 minutes from Tokyo by train, with direct access via the Tobu Tojo Line or JR Saikyo Line.

Travel Tip: Check out the local craft beer scene at Coedo Brewery, where you can sample unique brews.

Where to Stay: Ryokan Matsumuraya offers a traditional Japanese lodging experience in the heart of Kawagoe.

Where to Eat: Sweet potato treats are a specialty here; try the sweet potato soft serve ice cream at Kameya Eisen.

Mount Mitake

Mount Mitake offers a serene and spiritual retreat from Tokyo's urban landscape. This sacred mountain is home to the Mitake Shrine, and the surrounding area is crisscrossed with hiking trails that lead through lush forests and past waterfalls. It's an ideal spot for those seeking tranquility and a connection with nature.

How to Get There: Take the JR Chuo Line from Shinjuku to Ome Station, then transfer to the JR Ome Line to Mitake Station. From there, a bus and cable car will take you to the shrine at the mountain's summit.

Travel Tip: Stay overnight at one of the shukubo (temple lodgings) for a unique cultural experience.

Where to Stay: Shukubo Komadori-Sanso offers traditional accommodation and an opportunity to participate in morning prayers.

Where to Eat: Enjoy soba noodles and mountain vegetables at the quaint cafes along the trail, like Gyokudo Kiyotaki.

Okutama

Okutama is an off-the-beaten-path destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities like hiking, fishing, and river rafting. The area is known for its lush valleys, clear rivers, and the scenic Lake Okutama. It's a perfect spot for those looking to escape the city and immerse themselves in Japan's natural beauty.

How to Get There: Reach Okutama by taking the JR Chuo Line to Tachikawa, then transfer to the JR Ome Line, which goes directly to Okutama Station.

Travel Tip: Explore the limestone Nippara Limestone Caves for a cool underground adventure.

Where to Stay: Hikawa Campsite offers a great outdoor experience, with options for tent camping or staying in a cabin.

Where to Eat: Try the local specialty, Okutama trout, at restaurants like Kawanori Sanso, which serves fresh fish caught from the nearby rivers.

Each of these destinations offers a unique experience that can rejuvenate any digital nomad living in Tokyo. Whether you're seeking cultural enrichment, natural beauty, or just a quiet place to unwind, these weekend getaways are sure to provide the perfect respite.