10 Accessible Summer Spots to Experience Nature from Tokyo

1. Hakone (Kanagawa) - Hot springs, art, and Japanese culture
2. Atami (Shizuoka) - Sea, hot springs, and a Showa era atmosphere
3. Karuizawa (Nagano) - A refined highland resort
4. Nagatoro (Saitama) - River views and gentle adventure
5. Akigawa Valley (Tokyo) - One of Tokyo’s last remaining clear streams
6. Okutama (Tokyo) - A deep forest retreat from the city
7. Kawaguchiko (Yamanashi) - Relax by the foot of Mount Fuji
8. Izu Kogen (Shizuoka) - A harmony of sea, forest, and art
9. Nasu Highlands (Tochigi) - A classic summer favored by the Imperial Family
10. Hotels in Tokyo - An urban oasis of calm and elegance
11. Summary

Hakone is one of Japan’s most famous hot spring areas, with cooler weather thanks to its elevation.
Lake Ashi, forest railways, and the historic Hakone Shrine allow visitors to experience traditional Japan.
Art museums such as the Hakone Open Air Museum offer peaceful moments where nature and creativity meet.
Access: About 1 hour and 30 minutes from Shinjuku Station by Odakyu Romancecar to Hakone Yumoto Station.
Hakone Navi Website

Atami is a long established hot spring town that has gained renewed attention in recent years.
Sea breezes create a pleasant climate, especially in the mornings and evenings.
The mix of traditional inns, retro cafes, and spots like Kinomiya Shrine gives visitors a sense of nostalgic Japan.
Access: About 50 minutes from Tokyo Station by Tokaido Shinkansen.
Atami City Tourism Official Website

Karuizawa is one of Japan’s most popular summer retreats, known for its cool climate.
The town blends Western influences with Japanese elegance, especially in the Old Karuizawa area.
Natural spots like Shiraito Falls and Kumoba Pond add to its calm atmosphere.
Access: About 1 hour and 10 minutes from Tokyo Station by Hokuriku Shinkansen.
Karuizawa Tourist Association Website

Nagatoro lies along the clear waters of the Arakawa River and is a favorite summer destination.
River boat rides offer scenic views of the Iwadatami rock formations and cool breezes.
Hodosan Shrine and the famous shaved ice shop Asami Reizo are also popular stops.
Access: About 1 hour and 30 to 40 minutes from Ikebukuro Station.
Nagatoro Tourism Guide Website

Akigawa Valley offers a rich natural setting despite being close to central Tokyo.
The riverside stays cool in summer, making it ideal for walking, river activities, and relaxing at nearby hot springs.
A stroll through the forest provides a refreshing break from city life.
Access: About 90 minutes from Shinjuku, followed by a short bus ride.
Akigawa Valley Official Website

Okutama is surrounded by forests and mountains, creating a true escape within Tokyo.
Lake Okutama, limestone caves, and suspension bridges highlight the area’s natural beauty.
Visitors can also experience mountain related culture at places like Musashi Mitake Shrine.
Access: About 2 hours from Shinjuku to Okutama Station.
Okutama Tourist Information Website

Kawaguchiko is known for its close up views of Mount Fuji and cool summer weather.
Lakeside cafes and observation spots offer a calm and scenic atmosphere.
Traditional inns and foot bath cafes add a distinctly Japanese touch.
Access: About 2 hours from Shinjuku to Kawaguchiko Station.
Fujikawaguchiko Tourist Information Website

Izu Kogen is a highland resort surrounded by mountains and the ocean.
Natural landmarks such as Mount Omuro and the Jogasaki Coast are highlights.
Museums, cafes, and craft shops make the area appealing for creative travelers.
Access: About 50 minutes to Atami by Shinkansen, then about 1 hour by local train.
Izu, Ito City Tourist Website

Nasu is a high altitude resort long known as a summer retreat for the Imperial Family.
Activities include hiking, farm visits, and enjoying wide open natural spaces.
Hot springs are also popular, especially with the cool mountain air.
Access: About 70 minutes from Tokyo Station, then a bus ride.
Nasu Highlands Tourist Guide Website

Luxury hotels in Tokyo offer a refined way to escape the summer heat without leaving the city.
Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo features lush gardens and a peaceful atmosphere.
Other hotels such as Aman Tokyo provide spas and elegant Japanese design.
Access: About 10 to 20 minutes from major Tokyo stations.
Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo Official Website