Japan Travel Guide: 25 Day Trips That You Can Do in Japan
When travelers seek a unique, fulfilling vacation experience, many choose to visit Japan with all its unique opportunities for adventure wrapped around an incredibly educational experience. Japan can boast one of the largest cities in the world as well as its most beautiful gardens. Coupled with its unique history, I’m sure you aren’t surprised that so many choose to make Japan their vacation destination.
Table of Contents
Tokyo Day Trips
1. Tokyo Disney Ticket 2-Day Pass
Tour features
- One night’s accommodation in a nearby hotel is provided
- Visit Tokyo’s Disneyland, DisneySea, or both
The experience
Tokyo has two Disney theme parks all its own: the classic Tokyo Disneyland (similar to its California cousin) and the ocean-themed Tokyo DisneySea, with a sprawling lake at its center. With this package, you’ll get the chance to visit one or both of the attractions, with one night’s accommodation and an included breakfast.
Important information
- Minimum participant is 2pax
Timing
- Departure: 8:30am
Cost starts from US$ 118.89
You can Book it here
2. Robot Restaurant Spectacular Cabaret Show
Tour features
- Watch an entertaining live show including robots, samurais, dinosaurs, and dancers
- Enjoy an unforgettable evening at Robot Restaurant
The experience
Experience a fun, and sometimes campy, neon-lit show where glitzy ladies dance with dinosaurs, ninjas, a giant panda, and (of course) robots.
Important information
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- Infants must sit on laps
Timing
- Departure: 3:30pm
Cost starts from US$ 46.80
You can Book it here
3. Mt. Fuji 5th Station, Pagoda, & Kawaguchi Lake Day Trip from Tokyo with Cherry Blossom Viewing
Tour features
- Enjoy a sightseeing cruise on beautiful Lake Ashi
- Japanese-style lunch included
The experience
Enjoy sightseeing near Japan’s iconic Mt. Fuji, including a Lake Ashi cruise and visit to Mt. Komagatake during this 11.5-hour day trip by coach from Tokyo.
Important information
- Wheelchair access
- The vegetarian menu is available
Timing
- Departure: 7:50am
Cost starts from US$ 97.29
You can Book it here
4. Gunma Sightseeing & Ashikaga Flower Park Day Trip from Tokyo with Strawberry Picking Experience
Tour features
- Explore Ashikaga’s wisteria terrace and watch the light show
- Pick strawberries and select crab and sushi from a sumptuous lunch buffet
The experience
Go strawberry picking and feast on crab with a lunch buffet. After plenty of free time to browse for brand names at the Sano Premium Outlets, finish your Tokyo day trip at Ashikaga Flower Park, a must-see destination known for its hanging wisteria.
Important information
- Stroller accessible
- Infants (0-2 years old) are free of charge
Timing
- Departure: 7:45am
Cost starts from US$ 108.09
You can Book it here
5. Fuji-Q Highland
Tour features
- Fuji-Q Highland entrance ticket for a full-day visit
- Ride Takabisha, one of the world’s steepest rollercoasters
The experience
Head inside Fuji-Q Highland, the theme park at the foot of Mt. Fuji with this day-long entrance pass. Giving you access to unlimited rides, the pass also allows you to enter whenever you want during the opening hours and stay as long as you like.
Important information
- Wheelchair and baby carriage is accessible
- It is free for baby (under 1-year-old)
Timing
- Departure: 9:00am
Cost starts from US$ 47.75
You can Book it here
Osaka Day Trips
6. Universal Studios Japan™ 1 Day E-Ticket
Tour features
- The perfect choice for families with children
- As well as rides, get the chance to take photos with mascot characters
The experience
Universal Studios Japan—Asia’s first Universal Studios theme park—is second only to the Tokyo Disney Resort as Japan’s most visited amusement park.
Important information
- Wheelchair accessible
- No re-entry is allowed once you leave the park
Timing
- Departure: 9:30am
Cost starts from US$ 66.65
You can Book it here
7. Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan E-ticket
Tour features
- Explore marine life from the 27 amazing tanks
- Learn about fish, sea mammals, and birds from Japan, the Pacific, and beyond
The experience
Avoid the long lines at one of the largest aquariums in the world, the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, with this general admission ticket.
Important information
- Wheelchair accessible
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
Timing
- Departure: 10:00am
Cost starts from US$ 5.40
You can Book it here
8. Osaka Frozen Tree & Frozen Waterfall Day Tour
Tour features
- Admire the frozen trees and waterfall
- Enjoy complimentary entrance to the illuminations at Nabana no Sato
The experience
Ride the Gozaisho Ropeway to see the mountain’s famous “frozen tree” and “frozen waterfall” phenomena during this day trip from Osaka.
Important information
- All items left on the tour bus will be disposed of by our company
Timing
- Departure: 9:45am
Cost starts from US$ 111.15
You can Book it here
9. Shigisan Nodokamura Farm, Senbon Torii, Umeda Sky Building, and Takimikoji Full Day Tour from Osaka
Tour features
- Explore Nara, Kyoto, and Osaka’s top attractions
- Explore the Senbon Torii, Kyoto’s iconic stretch of orange torii gates set along a hill
The experience
At this farm, you can try fruit picking (all you can eat) throughout the year, including strawberries and blueberries. Strawberries are in season from November to April but it’s best to start before midday, before all they are all gone.
Important information
- Children aged 0-3 can join for free
Timing
- Departure: 8:00am
Cost starts from US$ 63.15
You can Book it here
Kyoto Day Trips
10. Kyoto Tower Admission Ticket
Tour features
- Telescope usage on Observation Deck included
- Access amazing views of Kyoto from Kyoto Tower Observation Deck
The experience
By booking a general admission ticket, you’ll beat long visitor lines, so you can get straight to the incredible views. You won’t have to climb up staircases, as there are nine elevators. See Chion-in Temple and many top sites by using the telescopes on the Observation Deck.
Important information
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
Timing
- Departure: 9:00am
Cost starts from US$ 1.35
You can Book it here
11. Kyoto Ninnaji Temple, Kamigamo Shrine, Nagaraki Path, & Botanical Garden Day Tour with Cherry Blossom Viewing
Tour features
- See multiple temples, shrines, and attractions such as Fushimi Inari
- A great choice for travelers with limited time
The experience
You’ll save time researching and planning your trip, by having the itinerary organized for you. You’ll travel in an air-conditioned coach, and it’ll be a hassle-free day. Highlights include Kiyomizu-Dera Temple, Fushimi Inari Shrine, Sagano Bamboo Forest, and Tenryuji Temple.
Important information
- Stroller accessible
- Not wheelchair accessible
Timing
- Departure: 9:20am
Cost starts from US$ 81.09
You can Book it here
12. Kyoto Hanami Kimono Experience
Tour features
- Learn about local history and culture
- Professional kimono fitting with optional hair and makeup styling
The experience
Dress in traditional Japanese attire in this kimono and yukata experience in Kyoto. You won’t have to worry about wearing the clothing incorrectly as you’ll have a professional fitting session. Stroll around Gion, and visit nearby shrines such as Kiyomizu-dera and Heianjingu Shrine.
Important information
- Infant seats available
- Wheelchair accessible
Timing
- Departure: 9:00am
Cost starts from US$ 29.19
You can Book it here
13. Kyoto Perfect Day Tour
Tour features
- Visit the Kiyomizu Temple and enjoy panoramic views over Kyoto from the temple’s terrace
- Explore the Kyoto Imperial Palace with your guide
The experience
Immerse yourself in the captivating culture of Kyoto on a full-day sightseeing tour. See the tranquil Kiyomizu Temple amid its verdant surroundings; absorb the Imperial majesty of Kyoto Imperial Palace; and stroll amid the botanical beauty of Kinkaku-ji Temple.
Important information
- Wheelchair accessible
Timing
- Departure: 7:20am
Cost starts from US$ 126.10
You can Book it here
Hokkaido Day Trips
14. Noboribetsu Marine Park NIXE Admission Ticket
Tour features
- Travel in comfort with a private driver
The experience
Visit Noboribetsu with ease on a private full-day tour from Sapporo or Niseko. Ride in a spacious, climate-controlled vehicle that accommodates up to eight passengers and has free Wi-Fi.
Important information
- Not wheelchair accessible
Timing
- Departure: 9:00am
Cost starts from US$ 19.85
You can Book it here
15. Sapporo TV Tower Ticket
Tour features
- Get a ticket online without wasting your time
- Enjoy a height of 295 feet (90 meters) and that only in 60 seconds
The experience
Explore sweeping views over the city of Sapporo and Ishikari countryside by getting a ticket of the Sapporo TV Tower. If you visit it at night, enjoy its amazing illumination.
Important information
- Wheelchair accessible
- Booking up to 15 travelers
Timing
- Departure: 9:00am
Cost starts from US$ 6.00
You can Book it here
16. Shiretoko Animal Trail Winter Snowshoeing
Tour features
- Look for wildlife in a natural environment
- See a scenic trail in the winter
The experience
Explore Yellowknife’s winter landscape on a 2.5-hour, small-group snowshoeing tour that includes pickup and drop-off in Yellowknife, equipment, and hot drinks.
Important information
- Child rate applies only when sharing with two paying adults
- A moderate amount of walking is involved
Timing
- Departure: 12:10pm
Cost starts from US$ 55.00
You can Book it here
17. Asahiyama Zoo Day Trip with Round Trip Transfers from Sapporo
Tour features
- Family-friendly excursion
- Ensure your entrance to popular winter destinations
The experience
See the ‘penguin parade’ and other animals at Asahiyama Zoo, then head to scenic Aoi-Ike (Blue Pond), and catch the light show at Shirahige Falls. Have time to take photos and enjoy the spectacular scenery before your bus returns you to Sapporo in the evening.
Important information
- Not wheelchair accessible
Timing
- Departure: 8:00am
Cost starts from US$ 58.55
You can Book it here
Nagoya Day Trips
18. Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium Day Tour
Tour features
- See 3 Killer Whales (Orca) including a baby which was born at this aquarium
- Enjoy the Nagoya aquarium dolphin show
The experience
The aquarium has large sea mammals like dolphins and white whales (Beluga) that adapted to sea life in a long course of evolution is introduced in the North Annex.
Important information
- Stroller accessible
- Wheelchair accessible
Timing
- Departure: 9:30am
Cost starts from US$ 19.00
You can Book it here
19. A Day in Shirakawa Village and Takayama
Tour features
- Enjoy the architecture of Hida Takayama, an area known as ‘Little Kyoto’
- Explore Hida Takayama and Shirakawago
The experience
Experience a slice of traditional Japanese culture during this 11-hour day trip combining Shirakawago and Hida Takayama. Wander the streets of Hida Takayama, a town affectionately known to locals as ‘Little Tokyo.’
Important information
- Wearing comfortable shoes and clothes is strongly recommended
Timing
- Departure: 8:00am
Cost starts from US$ 72.09
You can Book it here
20. Nagoya City Walking Tour with 1-Day Subway Pass
Tour features
- Save time and see lots of Nagoya’s sites in one day
- No language barriers—learn about Nagoya from your guide
The experience
You’ll be on a small-group tour, so your tour experience will feel more personalized. Make the most of limited time, by seeing multiple highlights in one tour such as Nagoya Castle, the Sakae downtown area, and the Osu district, including Osu Kannon Temple.
Important information
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Minimum age is 5 years
Timing
- Departure: 8:50am
Cost starts from US$ 81.09
You can Book it here
21. The Historic Villages of Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama and Takayama Jinya Day Trip
Tour features
- Stop to sightsee in the mountain village of Shirakawago
- Leave Nagoya and travel to Lake Miboroko for photos and lunch
The experience
Admire the idyllic winter landscape of the UNESCO-listed Gokayama and Shirakawago villages on an illuminations day trip from Nagoya.
Important information
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- Not wheelchair accessible
Timing
- Departure: 8:00am
Cost starts from US$ 91.65
You can Book it here
Tohoku Day Trips
22. Lake Hibara Smelt Ice Fishing Experience in Fukushima
Tour features
- All necessary fishing equipment and instruction is provided
- Learn the sport of ice fishing while enjoying the winter scenery
The experience
Get out of Hokkaido’s capital city for a completely authentic winter experience: Smelt ice fishing. This small group tour takes you on an excursion to Lake Takkobuko to enjoy the winter landscape, learn the sport of ice fishing, and cook any fish you catch.
Important information
- Minimum age is six years
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
Timing
- Departure: 8:30am/12:00pm
Cost starts from US$ 52.25
You can Book it here
23. Dewazakura Sake Brewing and Tasting Experience in Yamagata
Tour features
- Enjoy sake tastings with a professional guide
- Tour a brewery building for a look at sake production
The experience
A spirit made with fermented rice, sake is Japan’s most iconic drink. And the heart of the country’s sake industry lies in Fushimi, a city known for its ultra-pure spring water and a long history of brewing tradition.
Important information
- Minimum age is 4 years
Timing
- Departure: 10:00am
Cost starts from US$ 61.25
You can Book it here
Fukuoka & Kumamoto Day Trips
24. Haneya Kimono Rental in Fukuoka with Fukuoka Tower Observatory Ticket
Tour features
- Get dressed in a traditional kimono within a 100-year-old machiya
- Women and girls can upgrade to a hairstyling service
The experience
Stroll around Kyoto in a traditional kimono for the best vacation photographs with this convenient kimono rental package.
Important information
- Not wheelchair accessible
Timing
- Departure: 10:00am
Cost starts from US$ 26.85
You can Book it here
25. Yamaguchi Tsunoshima Bridge, Karato Market, and Motonosumi Inari Shrine Day Trip from Fukuoka
Tour features
- Learn about Tokyo’s culinary scene from your expert local guide
- Try local favorites such as yakitori, monjayaki, and wagashi
The experience
Have a glimpse of Yamaguchi in Japan’s Chugoku region! Akama Shrine in Shimonoseki has a long history and is regarded as a power spot by the local.
Important information
- Minimum age is 12 years old
Timing
- Departure: 9:05am
Cost starts from US$ 79.29
You can Book it here
