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Kansai Region, JapanOutdoor activities

Our most recommended Kansai Region, Japan Outdoor activities

Tokyo: Mt. Fuji, Hakone, Lake Ashi Cruise and Bullet Train

1. Tokyo: Mt. Fuji, Hakone, Lake Ashi Cruise and Bullet Train

Experience Mt. Fuji, the highest mountain in Japan and listed as a World Heritage in 2013. Enjoy lunch before seeing Hakone, which is famous for its natural beauty and having such breathtaking views over Lake Ashi. First, board a comfortable air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi that will take you to the 5th station of Mt. Fuji, 2,000 meters above the ground. Step out and take a deep breath of the nature of Mt.Fuji and the sacred atmosphere at the Japanese Shinto Shrine. Then the bus will take you to “Oshino Shinobi no Sato”, a Ninja Village for a buffet lunch. Enjoy a Japanese Lunch buffet with local fresh ingredients before taking a walk through a traditional Japanese garden with a Japanese landscape of Mt Fuji. Next, the bus will take you to the Hakone area. Begin at “Owakudani” a valley once called the “Valley of Hell", once and still an active volcano. Experience the smell of sulfur and try eating a “Kuro Tamago” black egg which is said to prolong your life. From here, take a Hakone Ropeway, an exhilarating experience with an amazing view of Mt. Hakone. See the rich nature of the mountain, and on a clear day, all the way to Mt. Fuji. This ropeway will take you to Lake Ashi, a caldera lake where you will take a cruise. Finally, conclude your tour at Hakone Shrine. See its photogenic red torii gate floating on the water called “Torii of Peace.” Fill up your empty bottle at the main Shrine, pray for your health, and get some spring water that is said to purify your bad spirits. Then, board the bus headed to Odawara Station, and take a Japanese bullet train, Shinkansen. Arrive back in Tokyo around 6 PM.

Kyoto and Nara 1 Day Bus Tour from Osaka/Kyoto

2. Kyoto and Nara 1 Day Bus Tour from Osaka/Kyoto

Depart from the exclusive VIP waiting rooms of Osaka or Kyoto, heading to Fushimi Inari Taisha. Designated as an Important Cultural Property, the main shrine building contains five shrines together, these five pillars of Fushimi Inari Taisha are named for the great virtues of Inari Okami that they embody. Inari Okami is known as a deity of business prosperity, the prosperity of industries, the safety of households, safety in traffic and improvement in the performing arts. The 'Senbon Torii' or 1000 torii gates are donations by individuals and companies, and you will find the donator's name and the date of the donation inscribed on the back of each gate. Then you will head to Arashiyama, which changes with the seasons and you can enjoy the scenery any time of year, with cherry blossoms in the spring, boat festivals in the Summer, red leaves in Autumn and snow white mountains in the winter. Arashiyama is also filled with temples and shrines including the match-making Shrine you can visit, during your walk through the famed Bamboo grove. There are a variety of restaurants to choose right near the Togetsukyo bridge, including vegan and Halal. Proceed to the symbol of Kyoto, Kinkakuji, the Golden Pavilion, also named Rakuon-ji: one of the most popular buildings in Japan. Finally, move on to Japan’s old capital, Nara: you will have the time to explore its park, cuddle the worldwide famous deer and enter the biggest wooden building of the planet, Todai-ji Temple, another UNESCO world heritage site. Here you will find yourself in front of Japan’s biggest Buddha statue, 15 meters tall.

Kyoto: All-Inclusive 3-Hour Food and Culture Tour in Gion

3. Kyoto: All-Inclusive 3-Hour Food and Culture Tour in Gion

Explore the Gion district by night with an experienced English, German, French, or Spanish-speaking tour guide who knows everything there is to know about the area. The tour starts near Kamo river, where you’ll learn about how the tradition of Geishas came to be. After a short stroll along a busy commercial street, you’ll slip into a calm, quiet area to visit the Yasaka Jinja shrine. After that touch of education, it’s off to the Gion.   The Gion has secrets and history scattered across its narrow streets, but this is also a modern entertainment district—so it’s time for a deep dive into what goes on here. Your guide will keep it light and fun, and explain some of the more interesting cultural mores of these parts. Step into a restaurant and graze from a multitude of small plates at a sort of Japanese-style tapas experience. Enjoy a drink as well before continuing on.   Between restaurant stops, there will be an exploration of Kiyamachi, Ponto-cho, and some other commercial and nightlife streets. Your guide will show you both modern and historical Kyoto, painting a well-rounded picture that gives you a real sense of the place. This tour keeps the groups small and includes your food and drinks, so that you can have a carefree night like you’re simply hanging out with someone who knows the neighborhood. A delicious Kobe (or nearby sourced) Beef option is available on top of the usual food and drink. This option is for bookings at least 10 hours in advance.

From Tokyo to Mount Fuji: Full-Day Tour and Hakone Cruise

4. From Tokyo to Mount Fuji: Full-Day Tour and Hakone Cruise

Discover the Japanese natural miracles of Mt. Fuji and Hakone in 1 day on a guided tour. Step away from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo and surround yourself with nature as you visit the highest mountain in Japan. Ride the thrilling Hakone Ropeway and enjoy a scenic cruise on Lake Ashi. We start the tour from the center of Tokyo, Shinjuku (Love statue) at 8am. A comfortable air-conditioned coach will first take you to all the way up to the 5th station of Mt. Fuji, 2,000 meters above ground. Take a deep breath at the wonderful nature in Mt.Fuji while seeing magnificent scenery. Also feel the sacred atmosphere at Japanese shinto Shrine there! *If we cannot go up there, we will attend the highest available point on the day and if it is only the first station or the driveway is closed, we will visit Oshino Hakkai or alternative place Then the bus will take you to “Oshino Shinobi no Sato”, a Ninja Village for buffet lunch! Enjoy a Japanese Lunch buffet with local fresh ingredients as much as you like! Walk through a traditional Japanese garden with a Japanese landscape of Mt fuji. Maybe you can take photos with Ninjas!!! *Vegetarian meal, Muslim Friendly is available. Please request when you make a booking. After recharging some energies, the bus head to Hakone area! Starting with “Owakudani” a valley once was called “Valley of Hell.” It is still an active volcano that you can still see the steam coming from the ground. Experience the smell of sulfur and try eating “Kuro Tamago” Black Egg which is said to prolong your life! We will take a Hakone Ropeway, an exhilarating experience with an amazing view of Mt. Hakone. You can see the rich nature of the mountain and you can even see Mt. Fuji in a clear sky! This ropeway will take you to Lake Ashi, a caldera lake. Enjoy the refreshing cruise of Lake Ashi and see the beautiful natural landscape and Mt. Fuji. Don’t miss out to see Torii Gate which is floating on the water! It’s not over yet! We are finishing at Hakone Shrine, one of the most famous shrines in the area because of its photogenic red torii gate floating on the water called “Torii of Peace.” Yes, this is the gate we will see from the cruise! Go ask your friendly tour guide to take pictures that can go on your Facebook picture! And don’t forget to bring your empty bottle! Go up to the main Shrine, pray for your health and get some spring water that is said to purify your bad spirits. After having a peaceful time at the shrine, the bus will have a quick stop at Odawara Station and head back to Shinjuku Station getting there around 6:50pm.

Nagano: Snow Monkeys, Zenkoji Temple & Sake Day Trip

5. Nagano: Snow Monkeys, Zenkoji Temple & Sake Day Trip

A great tour for all seasons, this is a 1-day guided tour of the most famous attractions of Nagano City and Jigokudani or “Hell’s Valley”, home of the Snow Monkeys. Take a scenic route to see the cutest monkeys in the world, then experience the tranquility of Zenkoji Temple and lively Nakamise shopping street. For guests traveling from Hakuba, from December through March, your journey can begin with a shuttle from Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal at 7:55 AM; otherwise, meet your guide at Nagano Station at 9:35 AM (please be at your chosen pickup point in advance of the meetup time as the tour needs to depart on-time). Famous for being the temple to hold the first Buddhist statue in Japan. Zenkoji Temple has a special energy and welcomes people of all faiths and religions. The temple grounds are beautiful and tranquil; there are hidden gems to explore, such as the dark tunnel running under the temple, said to be where you can gain enlightenment by finding the “Key To Paradise”. After lunch, return to Nagano Station again by public transport and take local bus from there to the Snow Monkeys. World-famous for their rare habit of soaking in the hot spring and living in the snow, these amazing macaques will let you get really close to them for some great photo opportunities and an unforgettable experience. After saying goodbye to the snow monkeys, stroll back along the tranquil forest trail to a delicious lunch at the restaurant near the trail exit. After seeing the Snow Monkeys, head to the local Japanese sake brewery to try various types of sake maybe even find a nice souvenir for yourself.

Mt Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi Scenic 1-Day Bus Tour

6. Mt Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi Scenic 1-Day Bus Tour

Discover the scenery and historic landmarks around Lake Kawaguchi on a guided tour from Tokyo. Admire the views of Mt. Fuji as you see traditional houses, stunning pagodas, and the colorful flowers and plants of Oishi Park. Climb aboard the shuttle bus or join the tour at the Shinjuku departure point, and set off towards the Mt. Fuji area. On clear days, you will already be able to see Mt. Fuji from afar during the bus ride. Make the first stop at one of Japan's most iconic spots: Arakurayama Sengen Park. Admire the picture-perfect view of the 5 symbolic pagodas with Mt. Fuji in the background. Continue on from Mt. Arakurayama and proceed to the Kawaguchiko craft park right next to Kawaguchi Lake. If you prefer, take time to enjoy your lunch and walk around the lake as you take in the scenic view of Mt. Fuji's reflection on the water. After this, head to Oishi park which offers seasonal scenery with various types of flowers. Finally, stop by Saiko Iyashi no Sato Nenba which is located on the banks of Lake Saiko. Take a stroll through the village and marvel at the houses with thatched roofs which will give you a glimpse into life in Japan in the olden days. Conclude the tour at 6:15 PM when you will be dropped off in Shinjuku.

Nara: Half-Day UNESCO Heritage & Local Culture Walking Tour

7. Nara: Half-Day UNESCO Heritage & Local Culture Walking Tour

Meet your knowledgeable guide at the meeting point and begin your cultural half-day walking tour of Japan's first historical capital. As you walk by the shopping arcade, explore a Japanese old town extremely different from a metropolis like Tokyo. Walk between the historical buildings, and go inside a traditional merchant's house to see how people around here live in the past. Next, take a break from walking to observe the mysterious pyramid-shaped structure in the middle of the quiet town. Admire the view of the city of Nara from the hill, then visit Todai-ji Temple and Kasuga Taisha Shrine, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Learn about the distinct Japanese religious culture as you see a huge temple with a great Buddha statue, then explore a beautiful shrine housing hundreds of lanterns. In this area, meet and feed the wild deer living in Nara Park. For over 1,200 years, locals have believed that deer are sacred divine messengers. Interact with them and see how polite they are. At the end of the tour, savor a delicious Japanese lunch dish made only using local Nara vegetables and fresh meat.

From Tokyo: Mt. Fuji Full-Day Sightseeing Trip

8. From Tokyo: Mt. Fuji Full-Day Sightseeing Trip

Experience the most famous sightseeing spots around Mount Fuji. Learn about Japanese history and culture while soaking in the dramatic views around Mount Fuji. Depart from Tokyo by bus and arrive at Kawaguchiko Oishi Park where you can capture beautiful photos with lake Kawaguchi and Mount Fuji in the background. Continue to Arakura Sengen Park, located halfway up Mount Arakura in Fujiyoshida in the Yamanashi Prefecture. Take in the panoramic views of the city with Mount Fuji in the background and admire the cherry blossoms. Head to Oshino Hakkai, one of the most famous spots in the Fujisan area, and see the 8 different lakes located there. Taste the water from Mount Fuji. Explore Gotemba Premium Outlets (for tours before the end of April 2023) with plenty of time to shop in Gotemba City and enjoy beautiful views of Mt. Fuji. For tours that take place from May onwards, you will instead visit the 5th Station of Mount Fuji before being dropped back in Shinjuku Subaru.

Kyoto: Gion Night Walking Tour

9. Kyoto: Gion Night Walking Tour

Explore Gion, the centuries-old entertainment district of Kyoto, which truly comes alive at night. With your guide, learn about the customs of the geisha and the apprentice maiko-san. You may catch a glimpse of a few of the women in full costume.  Walk through the narrow streets with the lanterns flickering on the wooden buildings. Enjoy a night visit to a Shinto shrine, with a beautifully lit pagoda. Wander through the grounds of a Zen temple in the tranquil calm of the night. Learn more about the modern history of the entertainment district from your guide.

Night Walk in Gion: Kyoto's Geisha District

10. Night Walk in Gion: Kyoto's Geisha District

Experience one of the most popular walking tours in Kyoto, joined by nearly 5,000 guests annually. This 100-minute guided walk is led by a licensed English-speaking guide and takes you through nighttime Gion. The tour begins at Gion Omoide Museum, connected to a traditional pastry shop. Walk down the classic cobblestoned streets next to the Shirakawa River, and admire the scenery that was featured in the book and film, Memoirs of a Geisha. As you walk beside this beautiful stream, the guide will tell you about the history of geisha and give you a detailed explanation in regards to their kimono, hairstyle, traditional rules, and what their daily life is like. Although it is not guaranteed, during the walking tour guests often encounter geisha walking along the street.

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What people are saying about Kansai Region, Japan

The trip took us to beautiful and impressive places. We were highly impressed by our first guide Satoshi - he spoke advanced English and was quite knowledgeable and kind. The second guide Kan was very friendly and caring. The activity provider was also extremely kind and thoughtful in preparing a small surprise for my boyfriend who had a birthday on the day of our trip. The trip can be booked with a starting point Kyoto or Osaka, I think Osaka is the better option, discuss it with the activity provider.

Started at 8:30 and takes a couple of hours to get there, with a break stop. Make sure you book for a clear skies sunny day, it’s beautiful and we ended up stopping 4 times! At different viewing areas and a lovely village at the end. The guide was amazing and he gave us some good insight and then you go and explore the area yourself. Great day out! Highly recommend.

Anna was a great tour guide. She took us to many picturesque spots and gave us information on the history of the area. The food offered on the tour was very diverse, we had a great time! Highly recommend especially as soon as possible on your arrival to Kyoto.

The bus depart on time, we visited exactly the places they told us at the description of the tour. The places visited were amazing the only thing we could see Mt. Fuji because of the cloudy day.

Amazing and it was my memoriable trip and day in Japan. Thank you Mike (our tour guide) for making my day wonderful.