Living and studying in Tokyo is exciting—but sometimes you just need a break from the busy city pace. Luckily, Tokyo is perfectly located for quick weekend getaways that are affordable, refreshing, and full of culture. Whether you want nature, hot springs, or small-town charm, there’s a destination for every student.
Here are some of the best weekend trips from Tokyo—plus tips on student discounts, transport passes, and helpful travel apps to save money.
1. Hakone – Hot Springs & Mount Fuji Views
Travel time: ~1.5 hours
Perfect for: Onsen, nature, art museums, relaxation
Hakone is one of the most popular escapes for students. You can enjoy open-air hot springs, visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum, and take in stunning views of Mt. Fuji.
Student-friendly tips:
- Hakone Freepass (Odakyu Railway) – Offers unlimited rides in the Hakone area and discounted admission to many attractions.
- Check student pricing at the Hakone Open-Air Museum.
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2. Nikko – Temples, Nature & UNESCO Heritage
Travel time: ~2 hours
Perfect for: Culture, waterfalls, autumn leaves
Nikko’s Toshogu Shrine and beautiful national parks make it an ideal cultural getaway.
Student-friendly tips:
- Tobu Nikko Pass – Includes round-trip train fare + unlimited bus travel.
- Student discounts may apply at certain shrines and museums—always show your student ID.
3. Kamakura & Enoshima – Beaches, Shrines & Coastal Vibes
Travel time: ~1 hour
Perfect for: Surfing, temples, cafés, relaxing by the ocean
Kamakura’s Great Buddha, bamboo forest, and laid-back beaches make it an easy and affordable weekend trip.
Student-friendly tips:
- Enoshima Aquarium often offers student discounts.
- Odakyu Line has special weekend passes around Enoshima.
4. Karuizawa – Outlet Shopping, Nature & Cycling
Travel time: ~1 hour (Shinkansen)
Perfect for: Summer escape, food, cycling, shopping
Karuizawa is cool in the summer and cozy in the winter. You can rent bicycles, visit waterfalls, and shop at the Premium Outlet.
Student-friendly tips:
- JR East Rail Pass options may cover shinkansen travel.
- Many hotels/guesthouses offer student deals during off-peak seasons—check booking sites.
5. Izu Peninsula – Beaches, Onsen Towns & Coastal Cliffs
Travel time: 2–2.5 hours
Perfect for: Scenic coastlines, relaxing hot springs, photography
The Izu Peninsula has some of the most beautiful beaches near Tokyo. Towns like Atami and Ito are popular for weekend getaways and hot spring resorts.
Student-friendly tips:
- Look for “Gakuwari” (学割) or “Student Plan” on hotel booking pages.
- JR Discount tickets may be available depending on the season.
Student Discounts & Travel Hacks
1. JR Shinkansen Passes
Students staying medium- or long-term often benefit from:
- JR East Pass
- JR Tokyo Wide Pass
These can significantly reduce shinkansen costs for weekend travel.
2. Discount Apps for Students
These apps help you find budget stays, train deals, and last-minute offers:
- JR East App
- Klook
- Rakuten Travel
- Booking.com (look for student/long-stay deals)
- Yahoo! Travel (Japanese interface but great discounts)
3. Pocket-Friendly Accommodation
Look for:
- Guesthouses with student plans
- Capsule hotels
- Hostels with private rooms
- “Weekender” discounts on Japanese travel apps
4. Always Carry Your Student ID
You can get student pricing (“学生割引” – gakusei waribiki or “学割” – gakuwari) at:
- Museums
- Shrines
- Temples
- Attractions
- Some bus/train services
Make the Most of Your Life in Japan
Weekend trips are one of the best ways to explore Japan while studying here. From hot springs to historic temples, the destinations around Tokyo help students recharge, learn, and experience authentic Japanese culture.
If you’re dreaming about starting your study-abroad journey, DEOW Japan is here to help.
We support students with school selection, application guidance, accommodation support, and everything you need to settle into life in Japan.
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