[2025 Latest] 22 Recommended Spots for Day Trips in Kanto! From Popular to Hidden Gems! Perfect for Dates and Day Tours!

[2025 Latest] 22 Recommended Day Trip Drive Spots in Kanto! Perfect for Dates and Day Trips!

There are many drive spots in the Kanto area that you can enjoy as a day trip.

You can find healing in nature, stroll through photogenic cityscapes, or have a blast at a theme park.

These are perfect spots for dates with your partner, outings with friends, or family trips.

This coming holiday, why not take a drive to somewhere a little bit further away and spend a memorable day?

4 Recommended Drive Spots in Tokyo

Even in summer, it's cool and a natural cool spot: "Nippara Limestone Cave"

Nippara Limestone Cave is a 800-meter-long limestone cave known since the Edo period, boasting the largest scale in the Kanto region as a tourist attraction. The cave's interior is kept at 11℃ year-round, making it a natural air-conditioned space that feels cool and refreshing in the summer and warm in the winter.

The course, with its many elevation changes, is like a three-dimensional maze and boasts a scale said to be the largest in the Kanto region, with an approximate viewing time of 40 minutes. Particularly noteworthy are "Shide no Yama" (Mountain of the Dead) and "Enmusubi Kannon" (Matchmaking Kannon), which have names and landscapes reminiscent of another world.

It was once a mecca for mountain worship, attracting many pilgrims. Offerings and ancient bronze mirrors have been discovered within the cave, making it a place that evokes historical romance.

The surrounding area also features a mountain stream and hiking trails, making it an appealing destination that can be enjoyed in conjunction with the rich natural beauty of Oku-Tama.

This is especially recommended for couples who want to experience a sense of adventure, families who want to feel the mysteries of nature, and those who enjoy photography.

[Business Hours] April-November: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, December-March: 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM

[Admission Fees] Adults (including high school students): 900 yen, Juniors (junior high school students): 700 yen, Children (elementary school students): 600 yen

[Access] Approximately 20 minutes from the intersection in front of Okutama Station.

The admission fee is 700 yen for adults, 500 yen for junior high school students, and 400 yen for elementary school students. It is accessible by bus from Okutama Station and is an ideal destination for a drive.

"Akigawa Valley," a healing gorge where the ever-changing seasonal scenery shines.

Akigawa Valley, which flows from Akiruno City to Hinohara Village, is a popular driving spot with easy access, about an hour and a half by car from the city center, where you can enjoy beautiful nature throughout the four seasons.

The transparency of the clear stream, the Akigawa River, is exceptionally high, allowing visitors to fully enjoy outdoor activities such as playing in the river, BBQs, and fishing during the summer. Campsites and barbecue areas are also well-maintained, with facilities that allow you to enjoy yourself without bringing anything. A great point is that even outdoor beginners can easily experience nature here.

In spring, cherry blossoms and in autumn, beautiful autumn leaves color the valley, making it a scenic spot that attracts many tourists, especially during the autumn foliage season.

Additionally, the on-site "Akigawa Valley Sen'on no Yu" hot spring offers the appealing charm of a day trip spa. The views of the mountain stream from the open-air bath will soothe your soul and allow you to spend a relaxing time. Soaking in the hot springs after a walk will wash away your daily fatigue.

It's the perfect place for those who want to refresh themselves in nature, couples looking for a little adventure, or families who want to spend a relaxing weekend together.

[Access] Approximately 20 minutes by car from Akiruno IC on the Ken-O Expressway.

"Haneda Airport" - a place of extraordinary scenery that lets you experience the feeling of travel.

Haneda Airport, renowned for being enjoyable even if you don't fly, is actually a hidden gem perfect for a day trip drive. Terminals 1, 2, and 3 feature observation decks where you can witness the dynamic spectacle of planes taking off and landing up close, an experience that will leave you thrilled.

Each terminal boasts a restaurant area where renowned gourmet food from all over Japan gathers, allowing you to enjoy delicious meals while experiencing a travel mood. At the "Edo Koji" in the International Terminal, there is also a well-equipped shopping area where you can feel Japanese culture in a space that reproduces the streetscape of the Edo period.

Furthermore, a characteristic feature is that you can enjoy it on late-night or early-morning drives because many facilities are open 24 hours a day.

During the nighttime hours, it transforms into a fantastical atmosphere with runway approach lights and the sprawling night view of Haneda. We also recommend stopping by on your way back from a drive to enjoy the collaboration of the night view and airplanes.

This is a special spot in Tokyo for those who want to travel but lack time, love flying, and wish to relax in a stylish setting.

[Access] Just a short drive from the "Kuko Chuo IC" exit on the Shuto Expressway Wangan Route.

"Okutama Lake (Okutama-ko)" - a natural space where you can enjoy hiking and fishing

Okutama Lake, located in the westernmost part of Tokyo, is an artificial lake formed by damming the Tama River. It's a healing drive spot, remarkably surrounded by nature considering it's about two hours from the city center. Embraced by mountains, time flows at a leisurely pace along the lakeside, inviting visitors into an extraordinary world.

When it comes to Okutama Lake's specialties, there's the Miyamabashi, a floating bridge. This bridge, which offers the curious sensation of walking on water, is also perfect for photos. The changing colors of the mountains throughout the seasons and the tranquility of the lake create a beautiful landscape.

Furthermore, there are hiking trails and fishing spots nearby, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in nature. You can also enjoy a relaxing time while taking in the scenery from the lake on a sightseeing cruise.

The scenery, with cherry blossoms in full bloom in spring and the autumn foliage reflected on the water's surface in fall, is breathtaking. It's an irresistible place for those who want to quietly feel nature.

It's recommended for couples who love the outdoors, for solo drives to connect with nature, and for those who want to spend a relaxing holiday with their children.

[Access] Approximately 90 minutes by car from the Chuo Expressway "Hachioji IC"

[Saitama] 3 Recommended Scenic Drive Spots

A townscape that feels like a time slip to the Edo period: Kawagoe

Kawagoe, known as "Little Edo," is one of Saitama Prefecture's leading tourist destinations, where the atmosphere of the Edo period still strongly remains. The main street lined with traditional storehouses makes you feel as if you've time-traveled back to the Edo period.

The "Toki no Kane" (Bell of Time), a symbol of Kawagoe, is a bell tower with over 400 years of history. It still chimes the time four times a day, and its resonant sound has been selected as one of the "100 Soundscapes to Preserve in Japan."

Wherever you walk, scenic views unfold, perfect for social media.

At Kashiya Yokocho, you can enjoy traditional snacks, dango, and sweet potato confectionery, along with other local delicacies. The sweets made with sweet potatoes, a specialty of Kawagoe, are particularly exquisite, and the colorful sweet potato snacks, perfect for Instagram, are a big hit with young women.

Furthermore, there are many kimono rental shops, and by wearing a kimono and strolling through the town, you can have an even more historically rich experience.

Perfect for those who want to enjoy gourmet food and walking around town while feeling history. Recommended for relaxed dates between adults and for families who want to experience the retro era with their children.

[Access] Approximately 10 minutes by car from the Kan-Etsu Expressway "Kawagoe IC".

"Moominvalley Park" offers intellectual exhibits and a cafe that adults can enjoy.

Source:Moominvalley Park

Moominvalley Park in Hanno City is a theme park where you can experience the story of Moomin, the popular character born in Finland, with your whole body. The space, created amidst Nordic-style buildings and nature-filled forests, makes you feel as if you've wandered into a picture book world just by visiting.

The park features numerous spots that will ignite your intellectual curiosity, such as Moomin House where the Moomin family lives, and Kokemus, where you can experience Moomin stories through exhibits and films. In addition to play facilities for children, there are also plenty of exhibits and interactive elements that adults can enjoy at their leisure.

In addition, shows and greeting events are held from time to time, and the opportunity to actually interact with Moomin characters is one of the attractions. The grounds also feature a Nordic-style cafe and a souvenir shop, allowing you to enjoy a relaxing time surrounded by nature.

It's perfect for family outings, as well as for couples and friends who want to relive their childhood and have fun.

[Business Hours] 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (May be extended on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays)

[Price] Adults ¥3,900~, Children ¥1,000~

[Access] Approximately 12 minutes by car from the Ken-O Expressway "Sayama-Hidaka IC"

A petting zoo where you can interact with small animals is also popular at "Hitsujiyama Park."

Hitsujiyama Park in Chichibu City is known as a famous spot for Shibazakura (moss phlox), which colors the entire park in spring, and is a breathtaking scenic location visited by many tourists every year. Especially from mid-April to early May, approximately 400,000 Shibazakura bloom in full glory on "Shibazakura no Oka" (Moss Phlox Hill), creating a truly spectacular landscape with a carpet of pink, white, and purple flowers.

In addition to phlox, seasonal flowers bloom in the park, allowing you to fully enjoy the natural beauty that merges with the Chichibu mountain range. Located on a hill, the park offers panoramic views of the city and mountains, and the clear air will refresh you after a drive.

Furthermore, the petting zoo is also recommended for those with small children. Not only can you interact with the sheep, but you can also enjoy the sense of distance with the animals in a relaxing atmosphere. It's also a perfect spot for picnics, hiking, and leisurely nature walks.

This is recommended for those who want to enjoy the feel of the season, nature and flower lovers, and those looking for a photo spot to stop by during a drive. During the peak blooming season of moss phlox, the "Moss Phlox Festival" is also held, bustling with food stalls and events.

[Access] Approximately 60 minutes by car from the Kan-Etsu Expressway "Hanazono IC".

[Chiba] 3 Recommended Drive Spots

Mother Farm (Mother Farm), featuring seasonal flower fields and a scenic mountaintop area.

Source:Mother Farm

Mother Farm, located in Futtsu City, is a tourist farm surrounded by the rich nature of the Boso Peninsula. The vast grounds, spanning approximately 250 hectares, are home to various animals such as sheep, cows, pigs, and alpacas, offering valuable experiences through interaction with animals, including feeding and milking.

The grand procession of sheep was particularly breathtaking; the sight of approximately 150 sheep galloping by all at once was truly a spectacle.

One of Mother Farm's attractions is the enjoyment of beautiful flowers throughout the four seasons. You can enjoy different spectacular views each season, such as canola flowers and cherry blossoms in spring, lavender in summer, cosmos in autumn, and illuminations in winter.

In addition, there is also a rich selection of ranch gourmet. You can enjoy delicious meals that can only be experienced here, such as Genghis Khan lamb barbecue and regular barbecue. The soft-serve ice cream made with freshly squeezed milk is especially popular.

This is recommended not only for families but also for couples who want to be healed by nature and animals on a date, and for those who want to spend a fun day with friends.

[Business Hours] 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM (until 5:00 PM on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays)

[Admission] Adults ¥1,800, Children ¥900

[Access] Approximately 15 minutes by car from the Tateyama Expressway "Kimitsu PA Smart IC".

Featuring a wide selection of local gourmet foods and sweets, Umihotaru Parking Area

Source:Umihotaru Parking Area

Kaiho-maru Parking Area, located at the midpoint of the Tokyo Bay Aqua-Line, is a unique drive destination with the allure of its one-of-a-kind location on an artificial island floating in the sea. Surrounded by the ocean on all sides, the 360-degree panoramic view offers an overwhelming sense of openness that cannot be experienced anywhere else.

From the observation deck, you can get a panoramic view of Mount Fuji, Tokyo Skytree, and Yokohama's Landmark Tower on clear days, making it an excellent spot for photography.

The facility is well-equipped with shops selling specialty products and souvenirs from Chiba and Kanagawa prefectures, as well as restaurants offering seafood and local delicacies. The signature clam buns and soft-serve ice cream enjoyed while gazing at the sea are also very popular.

The gradient of the sky and sea at dusk, and the sparkling night view at night, are perfect for concluding a drive date.

Recommended for couples who love driving, those who want to enjoy spectacular views, and those who want to relax while gazing at the sea.

[Business Hours] Open 24 hours (some stores may differ)

[Fee] Free

[Access] Accessible from both Kawasaki and Kisarazu via the Tokyo Bay Aqua-Line

"Kamogawa Sea World" offers a full day of enjoyment with a seaside resort feel.

Source:Kamogawa Sea World

Kamogawa Sea World, located in Kamogawa City, is one of the most popular aquariums in the Kanto region, renowned for its dynamic killer whale shows. Situated with a view of the Pacific Ocean, it's a perfect spot for a drive, offering a resort-like atmosphere by the sea.

The highlight, without a doubt, is the killer whale performance, one of the few in the country. Their majestic leaps and splashes with their massive bodies are sure to leave everyone in awe. Furthermore, there are also abundant shows and exhibits featuring dolphins, sea lions, and beluga whales, ensuring there's plenty to see no matter when you visit.

Additionally, for children, there are animal interaction programs and events with explanations about marine life, making it a great place to learn while having fun.

Recommended for families, as well as couples who love animals. Take a break while gazing at the sea at the in-house restaurant or cafe for an unforgettable experience.

[Business Hours] 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM (subject to change based on season and day of the week)

[Pricing] Adults: ¥3,300, Children: ¥2,000, Toddlers: ¥1,300

[Access] Approximately 50 minutes towards Kamogawa from the Kisarazu-Kimitsu IC on the Tateyama Expressway.

[Kanagawa] 3 Recommended Drive Spots

"Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse," a complex facility featuring cafes, shops, and events.

Source:Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse

The Red Brick Warehouse, a symbolic landmark of Yokohama, is a cultural and commercial facility that utilizes historic buildings constructed during the Meiji era. Its picturesque scenery, standing along the coast, is photogenic both day and night, making it an essential spot for a Yokohama drive.

Inside the building, you'll find a variety of cafes, restaurants, and shops offering selected goods and fashion, allowing you to enjoy everything from shopping to gourmet dining.

In the plaza at Red Brick Park, you can relax while gazing at the sea, and there are also food trucks and street performers, so even a casual visit can be a fulfilling experience.

Furthermore, seasonal events like the "Christmas Market," "Beer Festival," and "Art Events" are always a huge success.

This spot, which combines Yokohama's exotic charm with a modern atmosphere, is recommended not only for couples on a drive date but also for girls' trips with friends or strolls with family.

[Business Hours] Shop 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM, Cafe & Restaurant hours vary by location

[Access] Approximately 5 minutes by car from the "Yokohama Park IC" on the Shuto Expressway Kanagawa Route 1.

The lakeside resort "Sagami Lake" where you can enjoy the seasonal nature and activities to your heart's content.

Sagami Lake, located in Sagamihara City, is an artificial lake created by damming the Sagami River with the Sagami Dam. It is a beautiful lake with a circumference of approximately 12 km and a maximum depth of 45 m. It is also known for having been the venue for canoe events during the 1964 Tokyo Olympics.

Popular as a driving destination where you can enjoy various outdoor activities throughout the four seasons in a magnificent natural environment surrounded by the Tanzawa mountain range.

Sightseeing boats operate on the lake, offering a roughly 25-minute cruise that allows you to enjoy the beautiful scenery of Sagami Lake as you circle around. Motorboats, rowboats, and pedal boats are also available for rent, perfect for couples and families to fully enjoy their leisure time on the water.

Every summer, a fireworks display is held on the lake, attracting many tourists.

Recommended for couples and families who love nature, those who want to enjoy fishing, and those who want to relax by a quiet lakeside. Sagami Lake Resort Pleasure Forest is also nearby, making it an area where you can enjoy yourself all day.

[Access] Approximately 10 minutes by car from the Chuo Expressway "Sagami-ko IC".

Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise, an ocean-themed amusement park where you can enjoy four aquariums.

Source:Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise

Hakkeijima Sea Paradise in Yokohama City is a unique tourist facility in Japan, with the entire artificial island floating in Tokyo Bay transformed into a theme park. It's a hub of amusement park rides, restaurants, and shopping zones, centered around four aquariums called Aqua Resorts.

The main attractions are the exhibits and shows featuring marine life at the Aqua Museum and Fureai Lagoon. You can encounter a variety of animals like dolphins and walruses, and even have a touch experience, making it very popular not only with children but also with adults.

The attraction area features ocean-themed rides, where you can enjoy thrilling attractions such as the roller coaster "Surf Coaster Leviathan" that races over the sea, and "Blue Fall," a drop tower with a height of 107 meters.

Additionally, the island is well-equipped with restaurants and cafes offering sea views, where you can enjoy dishes made with fresh seafood and gourmet local specialties unique to Hakkeijima.

This is especially recommended for families who love aquariums, couples on dates, and groups who enjoy attractions.

[Business Hours] 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM

[Fees] Island entry is free *Tickets are required for the use of each facility.

[Access] Approximately 5 minutes by car from the Shuto Expressway Wangan Line "Sachiura Exit."

[Tochigi] 3 Recommended Driving Spots to Experience History and Nature

A flower paradise enveloped in a fantastic wisteria tunnel: "Ashikaga Flower Park"

Ashikaga Flower Park in Ashikaga City is a world-renowned paradise of flowers and light, famous for its Great Wisteria tree, which is over 150 years old. With more than 350 wisteria trees in bloom, including the Great Wisteria with a wisteria trellis covering 600 tatami mats, an 80-meter-long white wisteria tunnel, and yellow wisteria, it attracts many visitors from all over the world.

The "Fuji Hana Monogatari" period, from mid-April to mid-May, is a spectacular spot where you can truly experience a fantasy world enveloped in a carpet of wisteria flowers.

Another major attraction of Ashikaga Flower Park is that it can be enjoyed year-round, and the roughly 20,000 tulips that reach their peak bloom from early March onwards announce the arrival of spring to the park with their vibrant colors.

In autumn and winter, we host the "Garden of Light Flowers," certified as one of Japan's three great illuminations, where you can enjoy various illumination displays alongside the seasonal flower light-ups.

It's recommended for flower lovers, those who want to be surrounded by healing scenery, and couples or groups of friends looking for photogenic spots.

[Business Hours] 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Hours may vary seasonally)

[Price] Adults from ¥400, Children from ¥200

[Access] Approximately 20 minutes from the Tohoku Expressway "Sano-Fujioka IC"

The farm theme park "Nasu Senbonmatsu Farm" where you can enjoy horseback riding, milk milking, and animal interaction experiences.

Source:Nasu Senbonmatsu Farm

Nasu Senbonmatsu Farm in Nasushiobara City is a tourist farm where you can enjoy interacting with animals and gourmet experiences in a vast natural setting, equivalent to about 100 Tokyo Domes in size. Although admission is free, the offerings are very substantial, making it a perfect spot for a day trip drive.

At the ranch, you can enjoy unique experiences not found in urban areas, such as horseback riding and butter-making. Activities like horseback riding and butter-making are popular, as is Genghis Khan lamb barbecue with its delicious secret sauce. The ranch's special sauce for the Genghis Khan is particularly renowned for being exquisite.

Additionally, dairy products such as soft-serve ice cream, ice cream, and cheese made with fresh raw milk offer a rich flavor unique to the ranch and are popular as souvenirs.

They also have a wide selection of seasonal sweets and bakery items, making it a great spot to stop by on a drive.

This is recommended for those who want to interact with animals, those who love farm food, and those who want to relax under the wide-open sky.

[Business Hours] Open year-round, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (may vary by facility)

[Fee] Free

[Access] Approximately 2 minutes by car from the "Nishinasuno-Shiobara IC" on the Tohoku Expressway.

The contrast of the mountain stream and autumn leaves is photogenic: "Kurenai no Tsuribashi" (Crimson Suspension Bridge)

The "Kurenai no Tsuribashi" (Crimson Suspension Bridge) in the Shiobara Onsenkyo hot spring resort area of Nasushiobara City, as its name suggests, is a popular scenic spot that becomes enveloped in a world of crimson during the autumn foliage season. The suspension bridge, spanning 52.5 meters in length and standing 20 meters high, crosses the Hoiki River. From the bridge, visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery created by the interplay of the clear stream and the autumn leaves.

Especially from late October to early November, when the foliage is at its peak, the maple and momiji trees around the bridge turn vibrant colors, making it a famous spot for many photography enthusiasts. The bridge itself is pedestrian-only, with minimal sway and excellent stability, allowing visitors to cross with peace of mind while leisurely enjoying nature.

Also, nearby, there are inns and day-use hot spring facilities for Shiobara Onsen, so you can relax in the hot springs after enjoying the magnificent scenery.

Perfect for those seeking breathtaking natural scenery, or couples and seniors looking for a relaxing drive. While stunning during autumn foliage season, the ever-changing seasonal landscapes are also a draw, making it worth visiting in spring and during the fresh green season as well.

[Business Hours] Open 24 hours for strolling

[Fee] Free

[Access] Approximately 20 minutes from the "Nishinasuno-Shiobara IC" on the Tohoku Expressway.

3 Drive Spots in Gunma Where You Can Fully Enjoy the Rich Nature

"Lockhart Castle (Lockhart Castle)," famous as a filming location for movies and dramas.

Source:Lockhart Castle

Lockhart Castle in Takayama Village, Azuma District, is Japan's only authentic European castle, a genuine ancient castle built in Scotland in 1829 and relocated and restored in Japan in 1993.

Nestled on a plateau at an elevation of 1,100 meters, surrounded by the beautiful mountains of Gunma, this stone castle exudes a fantastical atmosphere, as if one has wandered into a fairytale.

Inside the park, changing into dresses and tuxedos for photoshoots is popular, allowing you to feel like the protagonist of a fairy tale. The park is also well-equipped with props for photoshoots, making it perfect for girls' trips or romantic dates.

It is also known as a filming location for movies and dramas, and costumes and sets used in filming are displayed on the premises. Furthermore, it has been designated as a "Lover's Sanctuary," and is filled with romantic spots such as a bell for vows of love and heart-shaped ema (votive tablets).

Highly recommended for couples on dates, girls' trips, families making memories, and anyone looking to enjoy cosplay or photography.

【Business Hours】9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

[Admission Fees] Adults: ¥1,300, Junior/Senior High School Students: ¥1,100, Children: ¥600, Dogs: ¥600

[Access] Approximately 20 minutes from Numata IC on the Kan-Etsu Expressway

Experience a thrilling safari drive in your own car or a bus at "Gunma Safari Park."

Source:Gunma Safari Park

Gunma Safari Park in Tomioka City is one of Japan's premier safari parks, home to over 1,000 animals of approximately 100 species spread across a vast 36-hectare site. It offers a thrilling experience as a drive-through zoo where you can enter the living spaces of wild animals while remaining in your vehicle, allowing you to feel their powerful presence up close.

In the Africa Zone, lions, cheetahs, giraffes, and zebras live in an environment close to their natural habitat. In the America Zone, American bison, bears, and other animals reside in a naturalistic setting.

The feeding experience on safari buses is particularly popular. You can directly feed the animals from the windows of a special bus, and the awe-inspiring sight of lions and tigers coming right up to the vehicle is breathtaking.

Additionally, in the "Interaction Zone," where you can enjoy walking, you can also leisurely interact with capybaras, rabbits, and kangaroos.

Recommended for families who love animals, couples seeking thrills, and those who want a unique experience.

[Business Hours] 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM (Closes at 4:30 PM from November to March)

[Pricing] Adults ¥3,200, Children ¥1,700 *Tour/experience fees are separate.

[Access] Approximately 10 minutes from Tomioka IC on the Joshin-etsu Expressway

The "Okushima Lake," a serene lake that heals the heart with its Shimanto Blue.

Okushima Lake, located in Nakanosho Town, Agatsuma District, is an artificial lake created by the Shima River Dam. Its beautiful blue is called "Shima Blue," and it is known for its mystical surface that changes from a beautiful cobalt blue to emerald green.

The lake's color subtly changes with the seasons, weather, and time of day, offering a different spectacle each time you visit.

A promenade has been developed along the lake, allowing visitors to enjoy a stroll while admiring the beautiful lake surface. Autumn is particularly recommended. The contrast created by the autumn leaves and the blue of the lake is breathtaking, drawing visitors from within and outside the prefecture with their cameras.

Furthermore, you can enjoy observing wild birds around the lake, making it an ideal environment for nature observation and birdwatching. The area also offers attractions like Shima Onsen hot springs, retro coffee shops, and foot baths, making it appealing to enjoy not only the lake but also hot spring hopping and gourmet experiences.

Recommended for those who want to enjoy it along with hot springs, those who want to enjoy photography, and adult couples or solo travelers looking for a relaxing trip.

[Business Hours] Open Year-Round

[Fee] Free

[Access] Approximately 40 minutes from the Kan-Etsu Expressway "Shibukawa-Ikaho IC".

[Ibaraki] 3 Recommended Drive Spots

The National Hitachi Seaside Park, with its stunning seasonal flowers, offers a wealth of attractions.

Source:Hitachi Seaside Park

Hitachi Seaside Park in Hitachinaka City is a national park with a vast area of approximately 215 hectares facing the Pacific Ocean, and it is a spot where you can enjoy beautiful flowers throughout the four seasons.

Especially famous are the approximately 4.5 million nemophila flowers that cover the entire Haru no Miharashi Hill. The breathtakingly beautiful scenery, where the blue sky, blue flowers, and the blue of the Pacific Ocean merge into one, is a spectacular view truly befitting of paradise on Earth.

A major attraction of the park is the opportunity to enjoy different flowers throughout the seasons; in spring, daffodils and tulips bloom, in summer, sunflowers, and in autumn, bright red kochia adorns the hills.

Additionally, the park features "Pleasure Garden," an amusement park with attractions such as a Ferris wheel and roller coaster, allowing visitors to enjoy both the flowers and the rides.

Recommended for couples who love flowers, families, those who want to enjoy photography, and those who want to spend time actively in nature.

[Business Hours] 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM (varies by season)

[Admission Fees] Adults (high school age and up): ¥450, Seniors (65 and over): ¥210, Children (junior high school age and under): Free

[Access] Approximately 15 minutes by car from the Joban Expressway "Hitachi-Nanta Ota IC"

Fukuroda Falls, one of Japan's Three Great Waterfalls

Fukuroda Falls in Daigo Town, Kuji District, boasts a magnificent scale of 120m in height and 73m in width, making it one of Japan's three most famous waterfalls. It is also known as "Yotsudo no Taki" (Four-Level Falls) due to its unique beauty as it cascades down in four distinct stages.

This waterfall, which spans the Takigawa River, a tributary of the Kuji River, is a magnificent sight as it cascades down a large rock face in four tiers. From the observation deck, you can take in the full panorama of the waterfall and experience the thrilling sensation of being up close to the spray and roar.

The charm of Fukuroda Falls lies in its beautiful and varied expressions throughout the four seasons. In spring, it's a refreshing waterfall surrounded by new greenery; in summer, its cool mist provides a pleasant escape from the heat; in autumn, it's a fantastical sight colored by the changing leaves; and in winter, you can enjoy the mysterious spectacle of the frozen waterfall known as hyobaku (icefall).

The scenery is particularly spectacular from late October to mid-November during the autumn foliage season, and many tourists also visit from January to February when icefalls can be seen.

This is recommended for couples and families who want to feel the power of nature, those who want to enjoy photography, and those who want to enjoy the changing seasons.

[Business Hours] Open year-round 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM (varies by season)

[Fees] Waterfall observation facility: Adults ¥500, Children ¥300

[Access] Approximately 1 hour from Joban Expressway "Naka IC"

The Ushiku Daibutsu, a colossal Buddha statue boasting an overwhelming scale, is one of the largest in the world.

The Ushiku Daibutsu in Ushiku City is one of the world's largest bronze statues, standing at a total height of 120 meters and recognized by Guinness World Records as the largest bronze standing Buddha statue.

This colossal Buddha statue, created by Higashi Hongan-ji Temple, the head temple of the Higashi Honganji-ha sect of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism, stands with an overwhelming presence on the Kanto Plain, its form visible even from afar.

The Great Buddha's interior is divided into five floors, and its great appeal is that it can be enjoyed as an experience of the Buddha statue itself, with opportunities for sutra copying, Buddha image copying, exhibitions of Buddhist art, and views from observation windows.

In particular, the view of the Kanto Plain from the observation window at a height of 85 meters above ground can even include Mount Fuji on clear days.

Additionally, surrounding the main structure are a vast garden known as the Pure Land Garden, where seasonal flowers and plants bloom, and a small animal park where visitors can interact with various creatures. Combined with viewing the Great Buddha, it makes for a tourist spot that can be enjoyed all day.

Highly recommended for those who want to experience a giant Buddha statue up close and enjoy the spectacular views from the observation deck.

[Business Hours] Weekdays 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM, Weekends & Holidays 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM (Until 4:30 PM from October to February)

[Admission Fee] Adults ¥800, Children ¥400 (includes entry into the Great Buddha's interior)

[Access] Approximately 3 minutes by car from Ken-O Expressway "Ami-Higashi IC"

Summary

The Kanto region offers numerous day trip driving destinations with a wide variety of attractions, including nature, gourmet food, and leisure activities. These spots are easily accessible from the city center and have the appeal of making you feel like you've traveled far away just by visiting them.

Being able to spontaneously go on a day trip on the very day you decide to is one of the great pleasures of a day drive.

Using this article as a reference, why not steer towards an attractive spot in Kanto for your next holiday?