As a seasoned Japan traveller, I've learned that even independent explorers can benefit from well-crafted guided tours.
Today, I'm sharing a curated list of 9 top-rated day trips in Japan, each a highest-rated best-seller, each with overwhelmingly positive reviews. These tours provide the ease of convenience with cultural immersion, whether you're admiring Mount Fuji, exploring Kyoto's historic streets, or entering whimsical world of Studio Ghibli.
Designed to maximise your time, they provide insider knowledge and easy access to some unforgettable locations. From Nara's deer-filled parks to Nikko's stunning landscapes, these tours showcase some of the finest adventures Japan has to offer.
9 Highest Rated Unforgettable Day Trips in Japan
by Rob Dyer
9 exceptional day trips to transform your Japan travels
Whether you're drawn to ancient temples, futuristic cityscapes, or natural wonders, there's something here for most travellers.
All of these tours are conveniently available through Klook.com, a platform I recommend for its reliability and user-friendly interface. At the time of writing, all were among the most popular and most highly rated of all the tours available via the platform.
If you're new to Klook or have questions about using it for your Japan adventures, I highly recommend checking out my guide: Is Klook Legit? Honest Review & Tips for Japan Travellers. It's packed with insights to help you make the most of this useful travel resource.
OK, let's dive into these top-rated 9 exceptional day trips that might just transform your time in Japan.
1. Mt. Fuji Private Customizable One Day Trip from Tokyo
If the idea of seeing Mt. Fuji appeals to you but you'd like the opportunity to customise your trip, then this one-day tour could be just what you need.
Designed to explore the area around Mt. Fuji, including Lake Kawaguchi, the village of Oshino Hakkai and with the option to ascend Mount Tenjo via the Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway, this full day tour departing from Tokyo offers multiple vehicle options, depending on your needs.
If you crave to do some shopping at the end of your day, then you can opt to include a visit to Gotemba Premium Outlets - complete with a full view of Mt. Fuji in the background!
Mt. Fuji Private Customizable Trip Highlights
- Explore the Mt. Fuji area at your leisure with a knowledgeable English-speaking driver, discovering scenic and iconic locations.
- Customize your journey by selecting only the destinations that interest you most
- Visit Oshino Hakkai, a charming village featuring eight crystal-clear ponds fed by Mt. Fuji's snowmelt, along with local products and souvenirs.
- Experience Lake Kawaguchi's captivating views of Mt. Fuji and enjoy various activities, including a scenic lake cruise.
- Ascend Mt. Tenjo via the Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway for awe-inspiring vistas of the iconic mountain from its observation deck.
- Include Gotemba Premium Outlets into your itinerary to shop for premium accessories and designs from renowned luxury brands.
2. Kyoto & Nara Private One Day Tour from Kyoto/Osaka/Kobe
If history and culture are your thing then there are two cities in Japan you absolutely must visit: Kyoto and Nara.
Both have been the capital of Japan during its ancient history, and both offer a dazzling array of Shinto Shrines alongside Buddhist Temples. Located in Japan's central Kinki region, they're also both close to each other, meaning if you're short on time this private one day tour could be the ideal solution to see both of these stunning cities in a single day.
Ideal for anyone with plans to stay in nearby Kyoto, Osaka or Kobe as the trip includes hotel pickup from each of the three cities.
Kyoto & Nara Private Tour Highlights
- Explore ancient Japan through Kyoto and Nara's World Heritage Sites, immersing yourself in centuries of history and tradition.
- Experience a unique wildlife encounter at Nara Park, where friendly deer roam freely among visitors.
- Marvel at the colossal bronze Buddha statue housed within the magnificent Todaiji Temple, a former member of Japan's prestigious Seven Great Temples.
- Visit Kinkaku-ji, the glittering Golden Pavilion that once served as the opulent retreat of Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu.
- Wander through the mesmerizing tunnel of vermilion torii gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha, known as Senbon Torii.
- Lose yourself in the tranquil beauty of Arashiyama's towering Bamboo Grove, a natural wonder that captivates the senses.
3. Private One Day Tour Mt. Fuji - Lake Kawaguchiko
When it comes to the much over-used word 'iconic' there is one symbol of Japan that can legitimately lay claim to that accolade - the majestic Mount Fuji.
Located on the borders of Shizuoka and Yamanashi Prefectures on Japan main island Honshu, Mt. Fuji has inspired artists and poets and has been the site of religious pilgrimages for centuries. The Japanese government lists it as a Special Place of Scenic Beauty and one of Japan's Historic Sites.
Nearby, within the borders of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, lies Lake Kawaguchi. One of five lakes located at the base of Mt. Fuji (the 'Fuji Five Lakes'), the lake also gives its name to the onsen town Fujikawaguchiko.
Private Mt. Fuji & Lake Kawaguchi Tour Highlights
- Chureito Pagoda: Iconic Shinto shrine offering breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji, cherry blossoms, and its striking crimson pagoda.
- Oshino Hakkai: Picturesque village in Yamanashi Prefecture's foothills, renowned for its crystal-clear spring water sourced from Mount Fuji.
- Lake Kawaguchiko: Serene body of water near Mount Fuji, ideal for relaxation and capturing stunning photographs of the surrounding landscape.
- Saiko Iyashi no Sato Nemba: Reconstructed traditional Japanese village where visitors can explore authentic houses and experience wearing traditional clothing.
4. Ghibli Park Day Trip from Nagoya
Ghibli Park, situated in the Expo 2005 Commemorative Park near Nagoya, brings Studio Ghibli's enchanting world to the real world for you to explore.
Studio Ghibli founder Hayao Miyazaki is well-known for his passion for flying - a theme that crops up repeatedly in his films, so a natural add-on is the nearby Aichi Museum of Flight showcasing various aircraft exhibits. Among them is a plane developed by Jiro Horikoshi, the real-life inspiration for the protagonist in Studio Ghibli's film The Wind Rises.
Ghibli Park Day Trip Highlights
- Ghibli Park experience package: Includes admission ticket and round-trip transportation from Nagoya
- Studio Ghibli immersion: Step into the magical realm of iconic animated films, bringing beloved characters and settings to life
- Aichi Museum of Flight connection: Explore exhibits featuring the YS-11 aircraft, developed by Jiro Horikoshi, the real-life inspiration for the protagonist in Ghibli's "The Wind Rises"
- Includes a Ghibli Park O-Sanpo Day Pass, granting access to all five areas:
- Ghibli's Grand Warehouse
- Hill of Youth
- Dondoko Forest
- Mononoke Village
- Valley of Witches
While the pass allows entry to these areas, note that certain buildings remain off-limits:
- World Emporium (in Hill of Youth)
- Satsuki and Mei's House (in Dondoko Forest)
- The Okino Residence, Howl's Castle, and The House of Witches (all in Valley of Witches)
5. Ghibli Museum, Hotel Gajoen Tokyo, and Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum Tour
Embark on a triple-museum adventure in Tokyo, combining art, history, and architecture in one architecture themed tour.
If you're an architecture fan like me, you may have spotted that there aren't that many architecture-themed tours readily available in Japan. This seems a little odd to me, especially given than Japan has a genuinely unique array of architectural styles spread far and wide among its islands.
As the capital city, Tokyo is the largest city in the world, and over 400 years old. So it should come as no surprise that within its expanse you'll find a diverse selection of museums, hotels and buildings that any architecture enthusiast would just love to explore.
This next tour neatly delivers all of that in a one day trip.
Ghibli Museum, Hotel Gajoen Tokyo, and Edo-Tokyo Architecture Tour Highlights
- Immerse yourself in the whimsical world of Studio Ghibli at the Ghibli Museum in Mitaka.
- Savour a luxurious lunch at the opulent Hotel Gajoen Tokyo, a historical gem that inspired a famous Ghibli film.
- Explore a diverse collection of Meiji-era buildings at the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum .
- Take home a piece of the magic with a souvenir Ghibli Museum teacup gift for all tour participants.
6. Mt. Fuji, Lake Ashi, and Owakudani Day Tour from Tokyo
If you're someone who likes to have options if they're taking a guided tour, then this day trip from Tokyo has more than any other in this list.
This full-day excursion from Tokyo gets you close to Japan's natural wonders, featuring UNESCO World Heritage site Mt. Fuji and the scenic Hakone area. The journey includes a visit to Mt. Fuji's 5th station, situated 2,000 meters above sea level, an optional buffet lunch with views of Mt. Fuji, a cruise on Lake Ashi, known for its picturesque landscapes and a ropeway ride over Owakudani Valley.
See the majesty of Japan's highest mountain for yourself alongside the diverse beauty of Hakone. Transportation is provided via bullet train and air-conditioned coach, allowing for a comfortable day of exploration.
Mt. Fuji, Lake Ashi, and Owakudani Day Tour Highlights
- Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Mt. Fuji and scenic Hakone.
- A professional English-speaking guide will accompany you throughout the tour.
- Multilingual audio guides are available in English, Spanish, French, Italian, German, Portuguese, and Ukrainian.
- Savour a fresh, locally prepared lunch near the base of Mt. Fuji (optional).
- Experience the power of nature at the active volcanic area of Owakudani Valley.
- Enjoy a thrilling "skywalk" experience with dramatic panoramic views on the Hakone Ropeway.
7. Hiroshima & Miyajima One Day Bus Tour from Hiroshima
If you're staying in Osaka or Kyoto (or Hiroshima itself), then this one day bus tour of Hiroshima and its neighbouring island of Miyajima is a convenient way to see the sights and savour the food of this historic city.
Hiroshima prefecture has a couple of world heritage sites, the Atomic Bomb Dome and the Itsukushima shrine, and you can explore both of them on this tour.
An assistant will be waiting for you at the meeting point of Kyoto Station or Shin-Osaka Station to ensure your day begins smoothly.
Hiroshima & Miyajima Tour Highlights
- Tour Hiroshima city in comfort aboard an air-conditioned bus
- Savour authentic Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki, a local specialty featuring layers of pork, cabbage, bean sprouts, noodles, and egg
- Experience a scenic ferry ride from Hiroshima to Miyajima
- Capture stunning close-up photos of the famous red Great Torii gate from the ferry
- Explore Miyajima's charming shops and local crafts
8. Perfect Kyoto One Day Bus Tour
This day tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Kyoto's most renowned landmarks and World Heritage sites.
The journey begins at Kiyomizudera Temple, where visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto from its famous wooden terrace. The itinerary then moves to the tranquil Sagano Bamboo Forest, providing a serene walk through towering bamboo groves.
At Kinkakuji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion, admire the harmonious blend of architecture and landscaping, set against the backdrop of Kameyama and Arashiyama. A Japanese-style buffet lunch is included in the tour.
The excursion continues to Rokuonji Temple, popularly called the "Golden Temple" due to its gold leaf-covered exterior. The day concludes with a visit to the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that create stunning tunnel-like pathways. This final stop offers a unique and memorable experience, encapsulating the spiritual essence of Kyoto.
Perfect Kyoto One Day Trip Highlights
- Explore Kyoto's iconic landmarks and World Heritage sites on an efficient full-day coach tour
- Benefit from the insights of a professional English-speaking guide
- Access multilingual audio guides in seven languages for enhanced understanding (in English, Spanish, French, Italian, Germany, Portuguese and Ukrainan)
- Marvel at the stunning golden pavilion of Kinkaku-ji Temple
- Wander through the serene Sagano Bamboo Forest
- Experience the mystical journey through thousands of vermilion torii gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
9. Nikko Toshogu Shrine & Kegon Waterfall One Day Trip from Tokyo
Nikko, a picturesque town in Tochigi Prefecture, offers a rich blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. This day trip showcases some of Nikko's most notable attractions.
The journey begins at Toshogu Shrine (pictured above), a UNESCO World Heritage site and the final resting place of Tokugawa Ieyasu, founder of the Tokugawa shogunate. The shrine's elaborate decorations and intricate carvings exemplify Japanese craftsmanship.
Next, visitors witness the awe-inspiring Kegon Falls, one of Japan's three most beautiful waterfalls, formed by ancient lava flows redirecting the Daiya River. The tour then offers a choice between two experiences: exploring the serene Lake Chuzenji, which offers stunning views of Mount Nantai, or relaxing in the therapeutic waters of Nikko Hot Springs.
The day concludes with a visit to an Onihei Edo-style service area, providing a insight into traditional Japanese culture and lifestyle.
Nikki Toshogu Shrine & Kegon Waterfalls Trip Highlights
- Explore Nikko's renowned historical sites and natural wonders on this comprehensive day tour from Tokyo
- Marvel at the majestic Kegon Falls and delve into the rich history of the impressive Toshogu Shrine
- Immerse yourself in Japanese culture throughout the day, guided by a knowledgeable and friendly local expert
- Customize your experience: Opt for tranquil relaxation at Chuzenji Lake or indulge in the therapeutic Nikko Hot Springs
- Enjoy convenient departure from an easily accessible meeting point in Tokyo
What was your favourite one day tour?
How about you? Are there any one day tours in this list that you're tempted by, or maybe you've even experienced? Perhaps you've been on an unforgettable day tour that doesn't make this list but would like to share it with others? Please leave a comment or ask any questions you have about day tours in the comments section below...
About the Author
A writer and publisher from England, Rob has been exploring Japan’s islands since 2000. He specialises in travelling off the beaten track, whether on remote atolls or in the hidden streets of major cities. He’s the founder of TheRealJapan.com.
Resources
The Day Trips Featured in This Guide
1. Mt. Fuji Private Customizable One Day Trip from Tokyo
2. Kyoto & Nara Private One Day Tour from Kyoto/Osaka/Kobe
3. Private One Day Tour Mt. Fuji - Lake Kawaguchiko
4. Ghibli Park Day Trip from Nagoya
5. Ghibli Museum, Hotel Gajoen Tokyo, and Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum Tour
6. Mt. Fuji, Lake Ashi, and Owakudani Day Tour from Tokyo
7. Hiroshima & Miyajima One Day Bus Tour from Hiroshima
8. Perfect Kyoto One Day Bus Tour
9. Nikko Toshogu Shrine & Kegon Waterfall One Day Trip from Tokyo
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