Think of Tokyo and you think of unending urban sprawl, but Japan’s superb train network makes it surprisingly easy to get out of the city, putting a variety of natural and cultural attractions within easy reach. All the day-trips listed here can be reached in under two hours by train. Once you arrive you can either explore on foot or by using local transport. A trip out provides welcome respite from Tokyo’s relentless bustle, not to mention a very literal breath of fresh air. It is custom to bring back souvenirs or treats such as senbei (rice crackers) to friends, family and colleagues, and there will be plenty of shops to choose from.