When the midsummer sun shines over Tokyo, it’s worth venturing beyond the city limits. Just a few dozen kilometers away lie ancient towns with centuries of history, summer’s deep blue islands, verdant lakes surrounded by greenery, and romantic harbor nightscapes. Though these places are near Tokyo’s suburbs, each has its unique background and nickname, weaving a captivating summer travel tapestry.

Kamakura — The millennial ancient city and hydrangea paths

Since the Kamakura shogunate was established here in 1192, Kamakura has been known as an “ancient city.” Temples and shrines abound, with stone-paved streets bearing traces of time, adorned with soft-colored hydrangeas in midsummer.

• Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
  Built in the late Heian period, it is Kamakura’s most important shrine and a symbol of samurai culture. In summer, lotus flowers bloom in the shrine pond, adding to its ancient charm.

• Komachi Street
  A quaint shopping street selling matcha sweets, Kamakura souvenirs, and chilled desserts. Walking here gives a feel of the Edo-period market atmosphere.

• Hasedera Temple
  Also called the “Hydrangea Temple,” over 2,500 hydrangea bushes bloom on the hillside in early summer, layering colors like a painting — an excellent spot for photography and strolls.

Enoshima — Myth and lighthouse in the sea breeze

Known as the brightest gem of the Shonan coast, Enoshima has long been a sacred place devoted to Benzaiten, the sea goddess. It blends sea views, shrines, and modern art, forming a unique summer romance.

• Enoshima Shrine
  Established in the 6th century AD, it is said to protect navigation and music. The vermilion torii gates lining the stone steps stand solemn amidst greenery and sunlight.
• Sea Candle Lighthouse
  Over 100 meters high, the lighthouse offers panoramic views of the Shonan coast and distant Mt. Fuji; especially dreamy at dusk.
• Enoden Railway
  Known as the “most romantic train,” it runs along the coast with waves crashing nearby and ancient temples along the way — a poetic journey from Kamakura to Enoshima.

Hakone — A hot spring sanctuary surrounded by mountains and lakes

Famous for its hot springs since the Nara period, Hakone is known as the “Tokyo’s back garden.” Green valleys, lake surfaces, and hot spring mist together weave a summer painting.

• Hakone Tozan Railway & Ropeway
  Winding through mountain valleys, it is one of Japan’s rare railways with large elevation differences, with streams and greenery visible along the way.

• Owakudani
  A volcanic geothermal area with steam rising year-round; its famous black eggs symbolize longevity.

• Lake Ashi & Hakone Shrine
  The lake is calm and vast; enjoy a ride on a pirate-themed sightseeing boat to see Mt. Fuji reflected in the lake. The vermilion torii gate of the lakeside shrine emerges from the mist, a stunning sight.

• Onsen Ryokan
  Stay overnight at a traditional hot spring inn, relax in the open-air baths, and experience the hospitality traditions dating back to the Edo period.

Yokohama — A modern city blending romance and East-West culture

Since its opening as a port in 1859, Yokohama became Japan’s earliest window to Western culture, earning the nickname “romantic port city.” Historic buildings and modern ferris wheels combine to form a magnificent skyline at night.

• Minato Mirai 21 & Ferris Wheel
  A modern district with towering skyscrapers; the illuminated ferris wheel reflects on the harbor water at night and is Yokohama’s iconic view.

• Red Brick Warehouse
  Built in the late Meiji period, these brick warehouses are now shopping and dining hubs, preserving vintage exteriors and foreign atmosphere.

 

• Yokohama Chinatown
  The largest in Japan, with over 600 shops; food and vibrant colors create a lively street scene.

• Yamashita Park
  A seaside promenade facing Yokohama Harbor; the summer night breeze makes it an ideal spot to enjoy the harbor and illuminated sightseeing boats.

Three-day itinerary recommendation

Day 1｜Kamakura & Enoshima exploration

• Morning visit to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, feeling samurai culture and ancient city charm
• Stroll Komachi Street, tasting local sweets and specialty snacks
• Afternoon take Enoden to Hasedera Temple, admiring midsummer hydrangeas
• Arrive at Enoshima, visit Enoshima Shrine and Sea Candle lighthouse, overlooking Shonan coast
• Return in the evening or stay nearby

Day 2｜Hakone mountain, lake & hot spring experience

• Take the Odakyu Romancecar to Hakone
• Visit Owakudani, experience geothermal sights and try black eggs
• Ride sightseeing pirate ship on Lake Ashi, visit Hakone Shrine
• Stay overnight in a hot spring ryokan, enjoying traditional Japanese onsen

Day 3｜Yokohama harbor culture tour

• Morning visit Minato Mirai 21, experience modern harbor cityscape
• Explore Red Brick Warehouse, appreciate historic buildings and shopping/dining
• Lunch at Yokohama Chinatown for authentic Chinese cuisine
• Afternoon stroll at Yamashita Park, evening harbor cruise for night views
• Return to Tokyo in the evening to end the trip

The above itinerary is only a recommendation. KingTai Travel also offers customized itinerary services to meet diverse traveler needs.

Transportation recommendations

• Kamakura & Enoshima: Recommend JR Yokosuka Line then transfer to Enoden for local atmosphere
• Hakone: Use Odakyu Romancecar or Shinkansen to Hakone-Yumoto Station, then Hakone Tozan Railway and Ropeway
• Yokohama: Direct access by JR Tokaido Main Line or Yokosuka Line, convenient transportation
• Charter service recommendation: KingTai Travel
  For more flexible and free itinerary planning, especially for groups or travelers with heavy luggage, KingTai Travel offers professional charter services. Drivers familiar with Tokyo and suburban routes can customize your route according to your needs, saving you the hassle of transfers and making the journey more comfortable and relaxed. Whether for transfers or full-day tours, chartering is a great choice for exploring Tokyo’s suburbs.

Recommended passes

• Hakone Free Pass
• JR Tokyo Wide Pass

Whether using public transport or charter services, you can enjoy a pleasant and efficient travel experience.

In just three days, from the quiet stone paths of ancient cities to the breathtaking sunsets at seaside lighthouses, then to the hot springs surrounded by mountains and lakes, and finally to the romantic harbor night views, Tokyo’s suburbs offer diverse landscapes and deep stories that leave you with unforgettable summer memories.