A 5-Day Nature-Focused Itinerary in Tokyo

  • Day 1: Meiji Jingu Shrine
    30 minutes (9.1 km) from Narita International Airport
    22 minutes (6 km) from Yoyogi Park

    The Meiji Jingu Shrine is a serene and tranquil shrine located in the heart of Tokyo's bustling city. Surrounded by a lush forest, the atmosphere is peaceful and calming. Visitors can take a stroll through the gardens or watch a traditional Japanese wedding ceremony.

  • Day 2: Mount Takao
    1 hour (37 km) from Meiji Jingu Shrine
    45 minutes hiking for beginner, 1.5 hours for advanced (round trip)

    Escape the city and immerse yourself in nature at Mount Takao. Hiking trails range in difficulty and offer stunning views of the city and Mount Fuji on clear days. Several restaurants along the way serve traditional Japanese cuisine.

  • Day 3: Odaiba Seaside Park
    30 minutes (13 km) from Mount Takao
    20-minute walk from the nearest station

    Odaiba Seaside Park is a spacious outdoor area featuring a beach, a large park for picnicking, and several walking trails. The park also has excellent views of Tokyo Bay and Rainbow Bridge. Take a walk through the sea breeze or rent a bike to explore the park.

  • Day 4: Imperial Palace East Gardens
    45 minutes (10 km) from Odaiba Seaside Park
    15 minutes walk from the nearest station

    The Imperial Palace East Gardens are a beautiful and peaceful oasis in the center of Tokyo. The gardens offer many walking paths, a variety of plants, and magnificent scenery. Visitors will learn about the history of the Imperial Palace, which served as the residence of many emperors.

  • Day 5: Tokyo DisneySea
    25 minutes (7.5 km) from Imperial Palace East Gardens
    Cost: $68 per person, estimated time: All day

    Wrap up your trip by visiting the popular Tokyo DisneySea park. The park is separated into various ports of call, each with its unique attractions, entertainment, and restaurants. The park also hosts spectacular parades and shows.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Meiji Jingu Shrine (1-2 hours, free)
  • Mount Takao (3-5 hours, $30 for transportation and food)
  • Odaiba Seaside Park (2-3 hours, free)
  • Imperial Palace East Gardens (2-4 hours, free)
  • Tokyo DisneySea (8-10 hours, $68 per person)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $98 per person

Transportation

Travelers in Tokyo can navigate the city using public transportation such as buses, trains, and subways. The most efficient way is with a prepaid transportation card like the Suica or Pasmo. Taxis and ride-sharing apps are also an option but can be more expensive.

Costs: A Suica card costs $17 plus transportation fees. Taxi and ride-sharing app rates vary depending on distance traveled, time of day, and demand.

Useful tips

If you have more time, consider visiting other popular nature spots in Tokyo like Yoyogi Park, Shinjuku Gyoen, or Tsukiji Fish Market. For less time, you can skip Tokyo DisneySea or Odaiba Seaside Park. Don't forget to try some of the city's famous cuisine like sushi, ramen or tempura.

Airports

Narita International Airport (NRT) is Tokyo's main airport located 60 km from the city center. It offers various transportation options ranging from buses, taxis, limousines, and trains. Other airport options include Haneda Airport (HND), which is closer to the city center, and Ibaraki Airport (IBR), mainly serving general and business aviation.

0