What to Expect: Accessibility at Major Attractions Near Tokyo
While Tokyo itself offers endless attractions, some of Japan’s most iconic destinations are just a short train ride away. From the mountain resort town of Hakone to the historic temples of Kamakura, the beach island of Enoshima to the Edo-period streets of Kawagoe, the areas surrounding Tokyo pack in incredible variety.
Many of these spots make perfect day trips from the capital, with easy train connections and well-developed tourism infrastructure. Kanagawa Prefecture in particular is home to a huge concentration of popular attractions, while neighboring prefectures like Tochigi and Yamanashi offer their own unique draws.
Accessibility varies widely depending on the type of attraction – modern aquariums and museums tend to be well-equipped, while historic temples and mountain towns can present more challenges. That said, many popular destinations have made significant efforts to improve access in recent years.
Check out our accessibility reviews of tourist spots near Tokyo (listed alphabetically by prefecture).
Chiba Prefecture
Kanagawa Prefecture
Home to Yokohama, Kamakura, Hakone, and more, Kanagawa is Tokyo’s most popular neighboring prefecture for good reason. You’ll find everything from seaside attractions and historic temples to mountain resorts and world-class museums, most reachable within an hour or two from central Tokyo. The prefecture’s tourism infrastructure is generally well-developed, though accessibility can vary significantly between modern facilities and historic sites.
If you are looking for private transportation or taxi services, please see our taxis page for Kanagawa and Yokohama.
Saitama Prefecture
Located just north of Tokyo, Saitama offers a mix of historic sites and cultural attractions that are often less crowded than their counterparts in the capital. Popular destinations like Kawagoe, known as “Little Edo” for its preserved Edo-period streets and traditional warehouses, provide a glimpse into old Japan. The prefecture’s proximity to Tokyo means good train connections and developed tourism infrastructure, though accessibility at historic sites can vary.
Tochigi Prefecture
Yamanashi Prefecture
Sitting at the foot of Mt. Fuji, Yamanashi is known for its stunning natural scenery and traditional villages. Attractions here tend to be more rural and may require careful planning for wheelchair users, but the prefecture offers unique cultural experiences you won’t find in the big cities.