Why I love Tokyo

“I’ve lived in Tokyo for over a decade now and am continuously surprised – sometimes on a daily basis – by something new. Such is the joy of living in a city that prides itself on constant renewal and reinvention; it seriously never gets old. Tokyo has everything you can ask of a city, and has it in spades: a rich, cosmopolitan dining scene, more cafes and bars than you could visit in a lifetime, fantastic public...” Read More

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Rebecca Milner
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Top experiences in Tokyo

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The Fixer's tour of secret Tokyo

Shinji Nohara knows Tokyo like no other. A lifelong local, he’s the ‘Tokyo Fixer’, the foodie who fed fugu (puffer fish) to Anthony Bourdain, who consults with some of the world’s best restaurants, and who regularly guides the great and the good around Tokyo’s lesser-known highlights. Best of all, he agreed to give this Lonely Planet writer a taste of the city, Shinji-style.

Soba noodles at Sasuga © Tom O'Malley / Lonely Planet
Tom O'Malley
Lonely Planet Writer
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Tokyo adventures

$665.43 Small group tours

Kyoto and Nara 2-Day or 3-Day Rail Tour by Bullet Train from Tokyo

Leave Tokyo on the bullet train to visit the heritage-filled cities of Kyoto and Nara, staying overnight in Kyoto, on your choice of a guided 2-day or 3-day excursion. Visit Nara’s many gorgeous temples and shrines on the first afternoon, then have a full-day tour of Kyoto’s highlights on the second day. Have the option of a second night in Kyoto, with the third day free to explore the city further. Return trip by bullet train to Tokyo and hotel transfer is included on both tours.
$638.53 Small group tours

3-Day Mt Fuji, Kyoto and Nara Rail Tour by Bullet Train from Tokyo

See the iconic highlights of Japan on a 3-day guided tour to Mt Fuji, Kyoto and Nara. Visit revered Mt Fuji, take a boat cruise on Lake Ashi and an aerial tram ride up Mt Komagatake. Head to Kyoto on the bullet train and take in the beautiful city on a morning tour to the Golden Pavilion, Nijo Castle, and Kyoto Imperial Palace. Then see Nara’s famous sites including Todaiji Temple, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, and Nara Park (Deer Park). Stay two nights in Kyoto with optional return to Tokyo.
$303.83 Small group tours

2-Day Mt Fuji, Hakone and Bullet Train Tour from Tokyo

Escape the big-city bustle to explore Mt Fuji, stay in scenic Hakone then zoom back to Tokyo by bullet train on this overnight jaunt. With an informative guide, you’ll visit 5th Station, cruise Lake Ashi and take a ride on the Mt Komagatake Ropeway. Then soothe away your cares in an ‘onsen’ (hot spring bath) at your Hakone accommodation and have a day free to explore this exquisite resort town at your leisure, using a transportation pass. Upgrade to include breakfast and dinner with Japanese-style rooms at your hotel.
$587.73 Small group tours

2-Day Mt Fuji and Kyoto Rail Tour by Bullet Train from Tokyo

Combine a visit to Mt Fuji with a bullet train ride and Kyoto sightseeing on this activity-filled 2-day tour from Tokyo. Day 1 introduces you to Japan’s natural beauty with a drive up Mt Fuji by coach, a cruise on Lake Ashi and a ride on the Komagatake Ropeway. Experience another Japan must-do with a high-speed adventure on the bullet train (aka Shinkansen) to Kyoto, where you’ll spend Day 2 exploring this important city and its many cultural attractions, such as Nijo Castle and the Golden Pavilion. You can either stay in Kyoto on your own after your tour, or return to Tokyo by bullet train. Choose from four hotel options.
$323.75 Small group tours

Overnight Mt Fuji and Onsen Experience from Tokyo

Get a true glimpse into Japanese culture, tradition and natural beauty on an overnight tour from Tokyo to Mt Fuji and the hot spring baths, known as 'onsen.’ See the iconic Mt Fuji from the fifth station, take a cruise on Lake Ashi and ride the aerial ropeway to Mt Komagatake for spectacular views. Stay overnight in Hakone or Atami (depending on option selected) and immerse yourself in the healing waters of the hot springs! Your second day is free and unguided for you to spend at your leisure -- soaking or sightseeing -- before returning to Tokyo by bullet train.
$1999 Small group tours

Japan on a Shoestring

Always wanted to do Japan but felt it was pricy? No longer! This super-affordable nine-day introduction to the Land of the Rising Sun is the solution. Travel by train to introduce yourself to Tokyo nightlife, the famous geisha district of Kyoto, and the gorgeous mountainous region of Hakone. Experience the country's quirky side as well, with activities and free time alike. Discover Japan with a group of like-minded adventurers and you'll never want to come home.
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