Destination Near Narita for 1-4 Nights
 

I am looking for one or two different destinations for spending 1-4 days, within a short distance of Narita Airport. My husband and I are traveling on different days and will be meeting in Tokyo, where we will spend 5-7 nights. I arrive at NRT at 9pm and have four nights by myself. After we leave Tokyo, we will have two nights before our flight, and don't want a long train and bus trip to the airport.

Is there any place, including the city of Narita, that may be interest to me, either solo for 1-4 nights or with my husband for 2 nights. We both like temples, history, and the great outdoors. My husband would be especially interested in relaxing in a rural setting, and an onsen resort, would be just his thing. Our budget is flexible, US$ 200 to 700,per day.

Thanks a million.

The city of Narita is supposed to be a lovely temple town. I admit I've never found time to visit it, but it is on my list.

Consider Hakone. Rural setting, onsen available. The only problem is getting to the airport from Hakone - you would want a taxi from where you are staying to Odwara, then the train to Narita ensure getting there on time. The tiny train line from the top (and the cable car, etc) can get very crowded, thus, the preference for a taxi.

The Naritasan temple complex is an international treasure, literally minutes away (but feels like a million miles) from the airport. You might just consider finding an upscale hotel near the airport and spend a full day in the temple and the picturesque streets leading to it.

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What Gardyloo said.

I did just this a few years ago - staying at a hotel near the airport and visiting Narita. (the hotel even provided a free shuttle service to town).

I followed many of the recommendations here : http://www.mgnewman.com/Naritax/

I was very pleasantly surprised at how much one could see and do in Narita, and had a fabulous time. I am not sure I would actually trek in from central Tokyo to see it (there would be other day trip options), but if you are already there it is certainly well worthwhile.

Mata ne!

Another option you might consider: Nikko and/or Lake Chuzenji for 1 or 2 nights (or more, depending on your interests!) Just a thought....
http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e3800.html
http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e3806.html

Or if you have 4 FULL days and are particularly ambitious, maybe Takayama and Kanazawa:
http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e5900.html
http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2167.html

Enjoy!

Thanks to everyone who replied. A lot of great ideas to chew over.