5 Must-Visit Hidden Gems in Kanto: Unique Spots Beyond Tokyo

1. Nedu Shrine (根津神社), Tokyo

• Catchphrase: “Kyoto Vibes in Tokyo—A Tunnel of 100 Torii Gates”
• Address: 1-28-9 Nezu, Bunkyo City, Tokyo
• Official Site: nedujinja.or.jp
• Access: 5-min walk from Nezu Station (Tokyo Metro)
• Hours: 5:30 AM – 6:00 PM（seasonal changes）

What Makes It Special?

• Stroll through vibrant torii gates and peaceful gardens, especially stunning during azalea season.
• Historic, lesser-known Shinto shrine with centuries-old architecture.

2. Hossawa Falls (払沢の滝), Tokyo

• Catchphrase: “Tokyo’s Secret Waterfall Escape”
• Address: 5545 Motoshuku, Hinohara, Nishitama District, Tokyo
• Official Site: hinohara-kankou.jp
• Access: Bus from Musashi-Itsukaichi Station (40-min ride)
• Hours: Open 24/7

What Makes It Special?

• Escape the city crowds and hike to a 60-meter waterfall deep in lush forest.
• Cool off in summer or enjoy colorful leaves in autumn—ideal for outdoor lovers.

3. Sarushima (Monkey Island), Kanagawa

• Catchphrase: “Explore an Uninhabited Island Fortress!”
• Address: Sarushima, Yokosuka, Kanagawa
• Official Site: sarusima.jp
• Access: Ferry from Mikasa Park (Yokosuka, 10 min)
• Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM (seasonal changes)

What Makes It Special?

• Ruins, tunnels, beaches, and barbecue—all on Tokyo Bay’s only natural island.
• Great for adventure seekers, families, and photographers.

4. Ichihara Lakeside Museum (市原湖畔美術館), Chiba

• Catchphrase: “Contemporary Art & Nature—A Chiba Secret”
• Address: 75-1 Funyu, Ichihara-city, Chiba
• Official Site: lsm-ichihara.jp
• Access: Kominato Railway, Takataki Station (5-min walk)
• Hours:
  Weekdays: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  Saturdays & Pre-Holiday: 9:30 AM – 7:00 PM
  Sundays & National Holidays: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM

  Closed: Mondays

What Makes It Special?

• Modern art exhibitions on a lakeshore, plus amazing architecture and outdoor installations.
• Enjoy local foods, cycling, and seasonal events.

5. Tsukuba Space Center (筑波宇宙センター), Ibaraki

• Catchphrase: “See Real Rockets & Meet Japan’s Space Program”
• Address: 2-1-1 Sengen, Tsukuba, Ibaraki
• Official Site: global.jaxa.jp/about/centers/tksc/
• Access: Tsukuba Express, Tsukuba Station (bus 10 min)
• Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed Irregular, Year-end and New-Year holidays（December 29 to January 3）, facility maintenance days. Check)

What Makes It Special?

• Tour real space modules and rocket engines—JAXA’s main research center.
• Family-friendly, with hands-on science experiences and English displays.