If your stay in Tokyo is 3 days or more, consider an excursion in the vicinity. Kamakura and Nikko, ranked as two of the most important historical sites in Japan, each represent a completely different but equally exciting period of Japanese history. Yokohama, with its thriving port, waterfront development, museums, and great garden, also makes an interesting day trip. Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park serves as a huge recreational playground for the residents of Tokyo. For overnight stays, I recommend Hakone, both for its atmosphere and its Japanese-style inns (ryokan), where you'll be able to experience a bit of old Japan. Active travelers may want to hike to the top of Mount Fuji in summer, while shoppers may head for the pottery village of Mashiko, which can be toured on its own or in combination with an overnight trip to Nikko. Since these are popular tourist destinations, try to avoid traveling on weekends and holidays.
Before departing Tokyo, stop by the Tourist Information Center (TIC) for pamphlets about Kamakura, Nikko, Hakone, and the Mount Fuji area, some of which provide maps, train schedules, and other useful information.
