The wooden pier stretching out into the sea at the Haragama Pier, the Jisshinkan Inn where you can enjoy the "healing waters for forty thousand ailments" of the Yonman Onsen, and the Sawara Mountain Nihon-ji Temple greeted by the Hundred-Foot Kannon and the Great Buddha. There are many places worth visiting in Japan, and here are some recommendations for solo one-day trips departing from Kanto, all of which are places you can go to when you feel weary of life.
1. Haragama Pier / Haragama Pier (Chiba)
The wooden pier extending towards the sea has become a popular topic on social media due to its spectacular views. On clear days, you can see Mt. Fuji, and sometimes even witness the phenomenon of Diamond Fuji.
Other than the pier, there isn't much to see along the coast, but when you're tired of life and just want to gaze quietly at the sea, this is the recommended spot.
2. Jisshinkan Inn / Jisshinkan (Gunma)
Located in the Yonman Onsen, this longstanding inn is said to derive its name from the legend of the "healing spring for forty thousand ailments." Even day-trippers can enjoy the Yonman Onsen's hot springs without staying overnight, which are said to be good for the stomach when consumed and beneficial for the skin when bathed in.
The building is divided into three parts: the Main Building, the Villa, and the Pavilion, creating a complex and maze-like structure. Due to being built on a rooftop, it has become a complicated construction. The atmosphere of the inn is said to resemble the world of "Spirited Away," so it is also recommended for Studio Ghibli fans.
- Jisshinkan Inn / Jisshinkan
- Address: 4236 Yubinbango, Nakanojo-machi, Agatsuma-gun, Gunma Prefecture
- Phone: 0279-64-2101
- Website: http://www.sekizenkan.co.jp/
3. Senjohara Pampas Grass Field / Senjohara Susuki Grass Field (Kanagawa)
The Senjohara Susuki Grass Field is equivalent to the size of four Tokyo Domes, forming a magnificent pampas grass field. In summer, the lush greenery of the grassland turns into a golden carpet in autumn, earning it the title of "Hakone's scenic spot."
Except during the autumn foliage season, this place is sparsely populated. In summer, you can enjoy refreshing scenery, which invigorates the mind. It's best to avoid the crowds during peak seasons and visit in the early morning or at dusk.
- Senjohara Pampas Grass Field / Senjohara Susuki Grass Field
- Address: Senpukugaoka, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa Prefecture
- Phone: 0460-85-5700 (Hakone Town Comprehensive Tourist Information Center)
- Website: https://www.hakone.or.jp/526
4. Sawara Mountain Nihon-ji Temple / Sawara Mountain Nihon-ji Temple (Chiba)
The Sawara Mountain Nihon-ji Temple, located in Sawara-machi, Kozu-gun, Chiba Prefecture, is the oldest Chokuganjo (imperial temple) in the Kanto region, established approximately 1300 years ago in response to an imperial decree from Emperor Shomu. Its range extends from the summit of Sawara Mountain to its foothills.
Standing in front of the hundred-meter-high Kannon statue excavated from a quarry and the largest stone Buddha statue in Japan, quietly joining your hands will lighten your mood. Additionally, 1553 statues of Arhats are arranged on the mountainside, acclaimed as the "first Arhat sacred site in Japan," so when you visit, be sure to carefully observe the expressive Arhat statues that convey various emotions.
The famous "Hell's Peek" observation deck is also located within the temple grounds, synonymous with Sawara Mountain. There may be queues at times, so if you wish to catch a glimpse of hell, try visiting on weekdays or early in the morning.
- Sawara Mountain Nihon-ji Temple / Sawara Mountain Nihon-ji Temple
- Address: 184 Moto-na, Sawara-machi, Awa-gun, Chiba Prefecture
- Phone: 0470-55-1103
- Website: http://www.nihonji.jp/
5. Lake Okutama (Tokyo)
Lake Okutama is a precious water source for Tokyo. It's an artificial lake that fills the daily lives of Tokyo residents with water. Surrounded by mountains and with a vast expanse of lake, it offers beautiful scenery where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the lakeside.
The environment here is tranquil, with the sounds of birds and rustling leaves accompanying your leisurely walk. Gazing upon the serene surface of the lake while strolling will surely soothe your spirits.
6. Todoroki Ravine / Todoroki Keikoku (Tokyo)
Todoroki Ravine is a 20-minute train ride from Shibuya Station and only 5 minutes from Jiyugaoka Station. Just a short walk from the station, you'll find Tokyo's only valley, allowing you to fully enjoy nature within the city. Strolling along the walking paths along the Todoroki River, you'll feel the soothing effects of the valley's negative ions.
It's said to be an excellent energy spot, as it has everything: temples (Todoroki Fudoson), ancient tombs (Todoroki Ravine Yokoana Ancient Tomb), waterfalls (Fudoson Waterfall), and abundant natural energy.
7. Inubosaki / Inubosaki (Chiba)
Inubosaki is a cape jutting out from the easternmost part of the Kanto Plain, near the mouth of the Tone River in Choshi City, Chiba Prefecture. It's said that the opening scene of a movie produced by Toho Studios, depicting rocks being struck by fierce waves, was filmed at Inubosaki.
Inubosaki is renowned as the place in Japan where you can see the earliest sunrise. It's an excellent energy spot to visit when you need firm determination.
8. Sesshoseki / Sesshoseki (Tochigi)
Sesshoseki is located in the scenic area of Nasu Onsen. The entire area emits toxic gases such as sulfur dioxide, and for a long time, it has been called "Sesshoseki" because birds and animals that come near it are killed, and there are no plants or trees growing. Sometimes this desolate landscape is referred to as "hellish scenery," and observing these barren landscapes might be a good idea to alleviate excessive emotions.
Near Sesshoseki, there's the primitive hot spring "Shikanoyu" in Nasu Onsen, which is recommended to visit after enjoying Sesshoseki. Before bathing, pour hot water over your head with a ladle; it's said to be an effective bathing method, so please give it a try.
- Sesshoseki / Sesshoseki
- Address: Yunomachi, Nasu-gun, Nasu-machi, Tochigi
- Phone: 0287-72-6918 (Nasu City Hall)
- Website: https://www.tochigiji.or.jp/spot/s9488/
9. Jouga-shima / Jouga-shima (Kanagawa)
Jouga-shima is the largest natural island in Kanagawa Prefecture, surrounded by Sagami Bay. It's a naturally rich island, awarded two stars in the Michelin Green Guide Japan. You can see both the sunrise and sunset, and on clear days, even Mount Fuji.
The Jouga-shima Prefectural Park is located in the eastern half of the island and is a famous attraction of Jouga-shima. Here, you'll find the Umiu Observatory, where you can feel the grandeur of nature, the Anegasaki Lighthouse, which offers panoramic views of Sagami Bay, and the Ma no Se Dokumon, acclaimed as a natural artwork. With a height of 8 meters and a width of 6 meters, the view of the Pacific Ocean from this natural cave is truly spectacular.
10. Jindai-ji Temple (Tokyo)
Jindai-ji Temple, formally known as "Fugaku-san Shouren-in Jindai-ji," is a Tendai sect temple renowned for its exorcism rituals, nestled in the lush greenery of Chofu. Established around 1,300 years ago during the Nara period, it is one of Tokyo's oldest temples, second only to Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa.
The main Buddha enshrined in the main hall is Amida Buddha, a secret Buddha that only one generation of head priests can see once. It's typically not open to the public, but occasionally displayed in special museum exhibitions.
- Jindai-ji Temple
- Address: 5 Chome-15-1 Jindaijimotomachi, Chofu, Tokyo
- Phone: 042-486-5511 (Temple Office: 9:00-17:00)
- Website: https://www.jindaiji.or.jp/
11. Tochigi City Kurano-machi / Tochigi City Kurano-machi (Tochigi)
In 2009, Tochigi City's Kurano-machi was awarded the "Beautiful Street Award" by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism. Since the Edo period, this town has prospered as a post town and shipping hub, lined with warehouse-style buildings along the banks of the Baboga River (Uzumagawa) flowing through the city center.
Here, you can forget about everyday life and leisurely stroll through the quaint streetscape, feeling as if you've been transported back to the Edo period.
12. Sugimoto-dera Temple (Kanagawa)
Sugimoto-dera Temple is the oldest temple in Kamakura, founded in 734. The beautifully green moss-covered stone steps that have grown over the years create a serene atmosphere. While the moss makes them slippery to climb, you can reach the shrine grounds via a visitor staircase adjacent to the mossy steps.
The Kannon-do Hall features a thickly thatched roof, exuding an elegant and dignified aura. Inside, three statues of Eleven-faced Kannon are enshrined, inviting us to take a closer look.
- Sugimoto-dera Temple
- Address: 903 Nikaido, Kamakura, Kanagawa
- Phone: 0467-22-3463
- Website: http://sugimotodera.com/
13. Machida Squirrel Garden / Machida Risuen (Tokyo)
The Machida Squirrel Garden provides employment opportunities for children with disabilities! In December 1988, the zoo opened with full cooperation from the "Squirrel Village" on Izu Oshima, according to the wishes of parents, aiming to create a unique zoo.
The free-range area houses around 200 Taiwanese squirrels, and you can feed them with sunflower seeds. Being able to interact closely with adorable squirrels can soothe your weary soul.
- Machida Squirrel Garden / Machida Risuen
- Address: 733-1 Kanaimachi, Machida, Tokyo
- Website: https://www.machida-risuen.com/
14. Tsukuba Wan Wan Land (Ibaraki) / つくばわんわんランド
つくばわんわんランド is a dog-themed park with over 90 breeds and more than 500 dogs. It features a variety of dog breeds, allowing you to interact with rare large dogs and enjoy the pleasure of taking a walk with your favorite dog (for a fee).
Simply holding them in your arms is incredibly soothing, and you'll become so attached to them that you'll want to take them home. If you bring a towel or wool on chilly days, the dogs will appreciate it. If you're a dog lover, this place will be an irresistible retreat.
- Tsukuba Wan Wan Land / つくばわんわんランド
- Address: 579 Numata, Tsukuba, Ibaraki
- Phone: 029-866-1001
- Website: https://wanwan-land.co.jp/
15. Snoopy Museum Tokyo / スヌーピーミュージアムTOKYO (Tokyo)
The Snoopy Museum Tokyo is the world's first official branch, a holy place for Snoopy fans from California, USA. Originally located in Roppongi, Tokyo, it relocated to Grandberry Park in Minamimachida in December 2019.
The third floor showcases original drawings and characters from the Peanuts comic, while the second floor features various expressions of Snoopy and a shop, BROWN'S STORE, where you can purchase original Snoopy merchandise—it's all about Snoopy! If you're a Snoopy enthusiast, this will be a soothing retreat when life gets tiresome.
- Snoopy Museum Tokyo / スヌーピーミュージアムTOKYO
- Address: 3-1-1 Tsuruma, Machida, Tokyo, Grandberry Park
- Phone: 042-812-2723 (10:00-20:00)
- Website: https://snoopymuseum.tokyo/
