Best Family-Friendly Day Trips from Tokyo

Looking for an adventure-packed day trip that both you and your kids will love? Tokyo’s awesome, but sometimes you just need to get out of the city and explore Japan’s wonders—without hearing “I’m bored” every ten minutes. We’ve got you covered with these family-friendly day trips, all within a few hours of Tokyo. So pack some snacks, buckle in for a train ride, and get ready for a day your kids (and you) won’t forget!

1. Enoshima Island, Kanagawa: A Beach Adventure for Families

Imagine a little island where the beach meets adventure and there’s something cool around every corner. Enoshima is where you’ll find sea creatures, hidden caves, and even a shrine or two (because, you know, Japan). Whether your kids are dolphin enthusiasts, cave explorers, or just in it for the ice cream, Enoshima has it all—and you’ll get some awesome views of Mount Fuji if the weather’s in your favor. Win-win

Things to Do and See

• Enoshima Aquarium: Want to see your kids’ faces light up with pure joy? Take them here. From jellyfish that glow like neon signs to dolphins putting on a show, the aquarium is where sea life gets cool. And, yes, there are touch tanks, so prepare for some squeals!

• Iwaya Caves: How about a little cave exploration? Armed with flashlights, you and your mini-adventurers can wander through these ancient caves. Spooky? Maybe a little. Fun? Definitely.

• Enoshima Shrine: Okay, time for a breather. Take the kids to Enoshima Shrine, where they can learn about the island’s history (and you can sneak in a few peaceful minutes).

Extras Around Enoshima

• If one island adventure isn’t enough, hop over to Kamakura for some temple-hopping and a peek at the Great Buddha (yes, it’s as huge as it sounds). It’s a quick train ride away and perfect for adding a dash of culture to your beachy day.

Where to Eat - After all that exploring, you’re going to need fuel. Seafood is the star here, and you can’t leave without trying Shirasu-don, a bowl of rice topped with fresh young sardines (trust me, it’s better than it sounds). Not into fish? No worries—there are plenty of cafes serving burgers and ice cream to keep everyone happy.

Travel Time and Costs

• Travel Time: Around 1-1.5 hours from Tokyo

• Cost: About ¥1,000-1,500 one way. Pretty reasonable for a full day of fun, right?

Pro Tip for Surviving the Journey - The train ride’s a little long, so bring your best distraction tools—snacks, games, whatever keeps your little ones occupied. And when you finally see the ocean views, you’ll know it was all worth it!

2. Mother Farm, Chiba: Where the Cows are the Stars

What is Mother Farm?

• If your kids love animals, then this place is basically heaven. Mother Farm is not your average petting zoo—this sprawling farm has everything from cow-milking and sheep shearing to pig races (yes, pig races!). It’s an animal lover’s dream and gives the whole family a taste of farm life without leaving the country. Plus, the views of the rolling hills are pretty spectacular.

Things to Do and See

• Animal Shows and Farm Experiences: Your kids can try milking a cow, feeding bunnies, or watching a sheepdog herd a flock. The shows are both educational and adorable—what’s not to love?

• Fruit Picking: Depending on the season, you can pick your own fruit, from strawberries to blueberries, and take it home as a sweet souvenir.

• Flower Fields: If you visit in spring or summer, don’t miss the fields of flowers in full bloom, making the perfect backdrop for family photos.

Extras Around Mother Farm

• While you’re in the area, check out the Boso-no-Mura open-air museum, where kids can try their hand at traditional Japanese crafts like weaving and pottery.

Where to Eat - There are plenty of family-friendly food options right at Mother Farm, from BBQ spots where you can grill your own meal to cafes serving farm-fresh dairy products (the ice cream is a must!).

Travel Time and Costs

• Travel Time: Around 1.5-2 hours from Tokyo (depending on train and bus connections).

• Cost: About ¥2,000-3,000 total for transportation and entry fees.

Pro Tip for the Journey - Trains, buses, and kids can be a tricky combo—be sure to have a few games or snacks ready to keep everyone happy until you arrive.

3. Railway Museum, Saitama: All Aboard the Fun Express!

What is the Railway Museum?

• Got a little one who’s obsessed with trains? The Railway Museum in Saitama is going to blow their minds. With massive train displays, simulators where they can “drive” trains, and a ton of interactive exhibits, this place is both fun and educational (but shhh, don’t tell them that).

Things to Do and See

• Simulators and Model Railways: Ever wanted to see what it’s like to be a train conductor? Your kids can get behind the wheel (sort of) in these realistic simulators.

• Train Displays: Check out full-sized, historic trains from different eras, including steam locomotives.

• Interactive Exhibits: There are hands-on areas for younger kids, where they can play with model trains or try fun, train-themed activities.

Extras Around the Railway Museum

• If you’ve got more time to explore Saitama, head to Omiya Park nearby, which has a zoo, a playground, and lots of open space to run around.

Where to Eat - The museum itself has a couple of cafes, but you can also pack your own bento (lunch box) and eat at the picnic area.

Travel Time and Costs

• Travel Time: Around 30-40 minutes by train from Tokyo.

• Cost: ¥1,300 for adults, ¥600 for kids for museum entry; train tickets are extra.

Pro Tip for the Journey - The ride isn’t too long, but it never hurts to pack some snacks and keep your camera ready—your kids’ faces when they see the trains are going to be priceless!

4. Lake Kawaguchi, Yamanashi: The Perfect Mt. Fuji View

What is Lake Kawaguchi?

• Looking for a family-friendly escape with stunning views of Mt. Fuji? Lake Kawaguchi is one of the Fuji Five Lakes and offers a beautiful backdrop for a day of outdoor fun. Whether your kids like boat rides, cycling, or just relaxing by the lake, this place has something for everyone.
  

Things to Do and See

• Boat Rides: Hop on a swan boat and paddle around the lake while admiring Mt. Fuji in the distance.

• Cycling: Rent bikes and ride around the lake’s scenic paths. There are family-friendly routes that are easy enough for kids.

• Family Hiking: If your family’s into hiking, there are easy trails around the lake that offer stunning views of Mt. Fuji. Just make sure to pack sunscreen and water!

Extras Around Lake Kawaguchi

• While you’re in the area, you can visit Fuji-Q Highland, a theme park with plenty of rides for kids and Mt. Fuji-themed attractions.

Where to Eat - There are many lakeside cafes offering simple meals and snacks. You can try some local Yamanashi specialties like Hoto noodles (a thick, hearty noodle soup) at one of the nearby restaurants.

Travel Time and Costs

• Travel Time: Around 2 hours from Tokyo by train or bus.

• Cost: ¥2,000-3,000 per person for transport, depending on the season.

Pro Tip for the Journey - Keep the kids entertained by playing the “spot Mt. Fuji” game as you travel—it’s always exciting when the iconic mountain finally comes into view!

5. Ikaho Onsen, Gunma: Hot Springs and Ropeway Rides

What is Ikaho Onsen?

• Ikaho Onsen is a hot spring town with a mix of fun attractions and relaxing baths. You and your family can ride the Ikaho Ropeway for incredible views, explore the historic stone steps lined with shops and cafes, and then soak in one of the onsen baths (which may or may not cure tired feet from all that exploring!).

Things to Do and See

• Ikaho Ropeway: Take a ride up the mountain for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

• Onsen: While some onsen don’t allow children, Ikaho has family-friendly options where everyone can relax and enjoy the warm, mineral-rich waters.

• Stone Steps: The famous 365 stone steps lead to Ikaho Shrine. Along the way, you’ll find shops selling traditional sweets and souvenirs.

Extras Around Ikaho Onsen

• While you’re in Gunma, consider visiting Shibukawa Skyland Park, a family-friendly amusement park with rides and attractions that are perfect for younger kids.

Where to Eat - There are traditional ryokan (Japanese inns) that serve multi-course meals, but for a more casual family option, check out the local udon shops.

Travel Time and Costs

• Travel Time: Around 2-2.5 hours by train and bus from Tokyo.

• Cost: ¥3,000-4,000 for transport, with extra costs for onsen entry.

Pro Tip for the Journey - Don’t forget to bring a few small towels for the onsen—they come in handy, and some places charge extra for rentals!

Whether your family is into animals, trains, lakes, or hot springs, there’s a perfect day trip waiting for you just outside Tokyo. The best part? These adventures are only a train ride away, so grab your kids, pack some snacks, and get ready to make some unforgettable memories together. And remember—sometimes, the journey is just as fun as the destination!

Frequently asked questions

What’s the best season to visit these day trip spots?

• Enoshima Island: Best visited in spring and summer for beach activities and clear views of Mount Fuji.

• Mother Farm: Ideal in spring and early summer for flower fields and fruit-picking.

• Railway Museum: Great year-round but ideal in the cooler months when outdoor options are limited.

• Lake Kawaguchi: Best in spring and autumn when Mt. Fuji is most visible and the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities.

• Ikaho Onsen: Perfect in autumn for the colorful foliage, or winter for the full hot spring experience.

Is it safe to visit these areas at night?

Most of these locations are quite safe during the day, but some areas may have limited lighting or be more isolated in the evenings (especially Mother Farm and Lake Kawaguchi). It’s always a good idea to head back to Tokyo before dark, especially if traveling with small children.

Should we rent a car for these trips?

While public transportation is convenient for all of these locations, renting a car can offer more flexibility, especially for families with young children or multiple stops planned in one day. A good and affordable car rental company in Japan is Times Car Rental—they have family-friendly options and many rental locations near train stations.

Are there baby-changing facilities at these locations?

• Enoshima Aquarium and Railway Museum have baby-changing areas.

• Mother Farm also offers baby-friendly facilities, but it’s best to confirm before visiting.

• Some of the more rural locations like Lake Kawaguchi and Ikaho Onsen may have fewer facilities, so it’s wise to check ahead. Another idea is to bring your own changing mat.

Are these day trips pet-friendly?

Enoshima Island and Mother Farm are generally pet-friendly, but pets are usually not allowed inside certain facilities like aquariums or museums. Lake Kawaguchi is also known to be dog-friendly in many areas, especially the outdoor activities.