What Are The Best Day Trips From Tokyo? Most Popular Ones You Will Love 

BY  Sibashree Mar 31, 2026

Everyone knows that you cannot complete exploring Japan in a day. And I had no choice but to miss Oshino Hakkai on the first trip.  However, on the next trip, I made sure to plan a visit.  Of course, an image on Instagram was my major drive behind being so passionate about a trip to Oshino Hakkai.  I saw a series of houses with thatched roofs along the shore of a pond. The magnificent and snow-covered Mount Fuji stood behind, strong and unshakable, as the eternal truth.  Born and raised in the land of spirituality and the Himalayas, I had to visit Oshino Hakkai.  However, as I have explained in my narrative from Tokyo to Mount Fuji day trip, you have to time your trip really well and have to be extremely lucky to see the snow-capped Mount Fuji.  Also, if you are planning a trip in summer, you will only get to see Mount Fuji partially or fully covered by clouds.  Nevertheless, as Mount Fuji continues to act elusive, here is why Oshino Hakkai will win your heart.  Oshino Hakkai: Why Is Visiting The Eight Springs Of Oshino So Special?  As I stood at the center of where both Lake Kawaguchiko and Lake Yamanakako meet in the small village of Oshino, I was able to look at the eight sacred ponds of Oshino Hakkai.  These sparkling, clear water springs are all that is left from a long-lost sixth lake that existed hundreds of years ago. It's as if time stood still when you visit these sacred areas. When I looked into the water, I didn't see just water, and I saw history. The springs were used by pilgrims (Fuji-ko) during Japan's Edo period to cleanse their bodies and souls before climbing Mt. Fuji. What a magical process the water goes through!  From snow accumulation on the summit of Mt. Rainier, through melting and filtration through approximately 80 years' worth of porous lava before it actually emerges at this location, its absolute perfection.  Moreover, it was crystal clear and pure.  Also, as I walked through the "Natural Monuments," I had an intense feeling of appreciation for the many years of waiting, so that each would have such serenity. How To Reach Oshino Hakkai? The journey to the stunning waters of Oshino Hakkai is as much a part of the experience as the location itself.  Here’s my recommendation for how to get to Oshino Hakkai, depending on whether you want a more convenient (train) or an adventurous (rental car) way of doing so. 1. Reaching Oshino Hakkai From Tokyo When travelling from Tokyo, you have several options available.  Highway bus lines go to Oshino Hakkai directly.  If you plan to take the train, either Fujisan Station (the nearest station) or Kawaguchiko on the Fuji Kyuko Line is your best option.  Once at Fujisan or Kawaguchiko, catch a local bus to get to the village. You may take the Fujikko-go (tourist buses), Mt. Fuji World Heritage Loop, or Uchino or Hirano routes via local bus from Fujisan Station.  Generally, there are 1-2 buses/hour on these routes. At Kawaguchiko Station, there are 11 Fuji-Q buses each day that leave for Lake Yamanaka Oriental side, and the 11 Fuji-Q buses that leave for Gotemba and also the Oshino springs. Just watch out for the Oshino Hakkai or Oshino Hakkai-Iriguchi as their stops. 2. Driving And Village Logistics I rented a car, and it is the most convenient way to visit the nearby Five Lakes region.  Parking here is convenient, and there are many public and private parking spaces.  After parking the car, you can explore the nearby villages.  However, you will need 300 JPY to enter the Hannoki Bayashi Shiryokan Museum.  You can visit the museum from 9 AM to 5 PM every day for a deep understanding of the local history.  Moreover, you will find signage in Japanese and English for every pond. My Trip To Oshino Hakkai I felt a bit out of place when I got to Oshino Hakkai.  I thought it would be a nice, quiet area for reflection and meditation, free of other people.  However, I found a busy and fully built-out village of people, shops selling food, and many shoppers and visitors to the area, as well as people engaging with local merchants about the items that were being sold.  There were also a lot of people around Wakuike Pond, and they were excited to see how clear the water of the pond was and the fish that were swimming in the pond. 1. Finding Solitude And Peace Within The City Although I typically search for the peace of solitude, I did not mind being in a populated environment.  I became curious after wandering among the crowds to find out where my curiosity would take me.  I found a quiet, undeveloped area just minutes from the main road, where I could hear the water from the pond, see ducks on the water, and watch an old man with two little boys quietly fishing right next to me. 2. Folklore And Galactic History The folklore & Galactic history of the 8 springs were fascinating to explore. Especially, that water from Wakuike Pond traveled on the Space Shuttle Challenger in 1983 for a snow-making experiment in space! 3. My Personal Highlight  The highlight for me was the open-air museum at the Hanoki Bayashi Shiryokan. It was a true escape from contemporary living, immersing yourself in the cultural heritage of the area. 4. Hannoki Bayashi Shiryokan: The Main Attraction Of The Trip  To tell the truth, I went to Oshino Hakkai because of Hannoki Bayashi Shiryokan.  One of the most amazing sights I've seen in the Five Lakes region was the thatched-roof farmhouses against a colorful garden and the imposing backdrop of Mount Fuji. I became engrossed in the displays of antique household items and rustic farming implements inside the traditional farmhouse.  The tour was brief, but I stayed by the big pond long after I was done because of the subtle beauty of the architecture.  I couldn't resist making another lap because the landscaping was so welcoming. Read Also: What Are The Things To Do In Jimbocho Book Town? Visit The Best Book Stores And Cafes Cherry Blossom Kyoto Japan: 2026 Season And The Top Viewing Spots Osaka Food: Know What To Eat In The Streets Of Osaka

BY  Sibashree Sep 24, 2021

I have been to Japan many times, and the cultural richness and the sensory delights the country offers make the experience worth it!  However, these days, I see a lot of people asking, “Is Japan expensive to visit?”  Another question in this regard is why Japan is witnessing a major boost in travel booking.  Now, first, let me answer that Japan is not as expensive as people are projecting it. Be it the day trips from Tokyo or exploring the cherry blossom season in Kyoto, if you plan an itinerary and the modes of transport well, you can complete the trip within a decent budget.  Furthermore, thanks to smart tools such as the Japan Rail Pass, you can now make transport more convenient and flexible.  Also, whether Japan is expensive or not will depend on the country you are traveling from and how the currency of your country fares against the Japanese Yen.  On the other hand, Japan is enjoying a massive surge in popularity among Gen Z tourists due to many reasons. However, sushi, manga, and anime are the three major factors driving this rise.  While Japan can be managed on a moderate budget, and I have shared the three main reasons behind the rising popularity of Japan, let’s delve deeper into how much a trip to Japan costs and the other factors causing a rise in Japanese tourism.  Why Is Japan Expensive To Visit? Is It The Growing Craze?  Do you know that American Express Travel data shows a 1300% hike in the number of Americans visiting Japan since 2019?  Furthermore, Netflix has confirmed that Anime viewership has gone 3 times up in 2025.  Now, these pieces of information show how young Americans, especially the Gen Z travelers, are passionate about Japan.  The country is now a cultural superpower with its “Soft Power” that it has used to build the global landscape of entertainment, aesthetics, and ideas.  Joseph Nye, a political scientist at Harvard University, has highlighted the strength of Japan’s soft power.  Overall, Japan is not just a new country to visit for these young travelers. It is an escape to the land of rich culture, great food, and soaking in the spirit of slow tourism.  However, the rising craze among young travelers is not the reason behind Japan being labelled as an expensive destination.  In fact, it is amazing to see tourism in Japan growing despite the high travel expenses being  high.  Key Reasons For Japan Being An Expensive Destination To Visit  Japan is expensive as a destination primarily for three reasons. First of all, the Shinkansen bullet trains, extensively used for transportation, are very expensive.  Also, while I found Osaka food from the street stalls quite affordable, trying Sushi, Ramen, or other Japanese staples in a fine dining restaurant can be very expensive.  Furthermore, Japan almost entirely depends on imported energy.  Despite an improvement of 22.4% in the net energy import during the period of 2020 to 2024, the net energy import of Japan in 2024 was 87.4% of the total energy supply, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA).  Thus, the fuel cost is always high in Japan, impacting the transportation expenses, the cost of essential commodities, and every other sector in a direct or indirect manner. Is Japan Expensive To Visit? A Breakdown Of Tourist Costs  So, Japan is expensive to visit. However, what can be the overall expense tentatively?  What will be the expenses on food, transportation, and accommodation? Here is a detailed breakdown.  1. Tourist Accommodation Cost In Japan Japan is very sincere about the hospitality it offers. So, even if you are staying at a budget hotel or hostel, you will find good hygiene and the basic amenities.  Furthermore, along with hostels, Japan has unique accommodation provisions such as the capsule hotels.  These are basically sleeping pods, and the cost is similar to staying in hostels.  On the other hand, you will find a minshuku, which is like a Japanese version of homestays. You will get bed and breakfast facilities at these accommodations run by local families.  Nevertheless, have a look at the table below to understand the different types of accommodation for tourists in Japan and their average costs.  Types of Tourist Accommodation in JapanTentative Cost Hostels and Capsule Hotels2000-4500 JPYBudget Hotels5000-10000 JPYBread and Breakfast 5000-8500 JPYStandard Hotels10000 JPY Onward Moreover, if you’re looking to move to Japan after your trip there, check out reliable websites to know the best places for foreigners where you can call home. 2. The Cost Of General Public Transport In Japan  The Japanese Bullet Train or Shinkansen is the most preferred mode of transport in the country.  The Cost Of Traveling In A Bullet Train And The JR Pass However, the travel cost is very high if you are traveling by these bullet trains.  On average, and based on the departing station or the destination, the cost will be around 16000-20000 JPY per ride (the ticket price can go much higher).  For example, if you take a bullet train from Tokyo to Shin Amori, the price for a reserved seat will be 21340 JPY.  On the other hand, for the Green Seat and the GranClass Seats, the ticket prices will be 27410 JPY and 34410 JPY, respectively.  On the other hand, a Tokyo to Kyoto bullet train ticket starts from 16550 JPY.  Now, this is where a Japan Rail Pass becomes handy. As a tourist, you can buy a Japan Rail Pass for 7 days, and the cost starts from 50,000 JPY for an adult. For a child, it is 25000 JPY.  You can even buy passes for 14 days or 21 days. With this pass, you can enjoy unlimited rides during the validity period.  Moreover, if you want to focus on Tokyo and its nearby areas, the Regional Pass will be a more budget-friendly option.   Also, cabs are pretty expensive in Japan. For a ride of 1 to 2 kilometers, you will have to pay around 500 to 700 JPY.  After that, a fee of 80-100 JPY will be added for traveling every 250 to 300 meters.  3. The Cost Of Hiring A Tour Guide In Japan  The cost of hiring a tour guide in Japan is between 25000 and 60000 JPY per month. However, the cost of the travel guide will depend on the services you opt for.  You can choose a guide for a full day, and the cost can be up to 80000 JPY, and for a half day guide, it will be around 25000-47000 JPY.  Furthermore, if you are traveling in small groups or vans, the cost of hiring a guide will be around 24000 JPY.  So, hiring a personal travel guide is expensive in Japan. However, you can save the cost of hiring a guide by seeking help from the local tourist centers or the national tourist departments.  4. Food And Drink Cost In Japan Food is one of the most important factors for Gen Z travelers visiting Japan. A survey said that around 50% of the visitors planned a trip just because they wanted to visit a restaurant or try some specific food.  Also, food and drinks are available in various cost ranges. So if you are planning to take the authentic taste of sushi, you will get plenty of options available there.  From the expensive designer boutiques to Kaiten-zushi style shops everywhere, the multiple authentic sushi dishes are valuable.  You can select the place according to your requirements.  In the boutique’s style restaurant, you have to spend nearly 51000 JPY for sushi, but if you prefer the sushi in a low-cost range, you have to spend only 1593 JPY for sushi.  If you want to explore Japan on a budget. You can quickly shift your choices to Japanese cuisine and cut your travel budget by cutting the foreign food items. How To Plan Budget-Friendly Travel In Japan? Do you want to travel in Japan on a budget? Here are the tips you can follow.  1. Make A Tour Plan In The Off Season  Off-season tour plans are always budget-friendly. The Autumn season is an off-season to travel in Japan, and this time the tourist rush is not very high. 2. Take The Railroad  Take the railroad to explore the city and buy the railway card to see the tourist places in the country. 3. Focus On Local Cuisine  Focus on the local, authentic, fresh Japanese dishes. If you’re looking for cheap food in Japan, you can buy it in small restaurants, street food stalls, and even vending machine cafes.  However, if you stay in the country for an extended period, you can save money on your travel by preparing and cooking most of your meals from scratch. 4. Find An Accomodation Far From The Main Crowded Cities  Try to find accommodation that is a little bit far from the main crowded cities. Make sure to book your accommodation ahead of time to save a lot of money. Hostels and the local guest houses are also charming, clean places to stay. However, when planning a Japan tour, it is better to keep away from the expensive luxury boutique-type accommodations. 5. Look For Free Attractions  Look for free attractions and events to save money.  Whether you want to spend a fun day in a national park or visit a museum, there are incredible activities that allow you to enjoy Japan without paying anything.

BY  Sibashree Mar 25, 2026

The Shinkansen, or the Japanese Bullet Train, brought a revolution in the transportation system in the 1960s.  It was the need of the hour, considering the rapid growth in the economy. Also, it is an icon of the technological prowess and wealth of Japan.  These days, we have Vande Bharat in India, and no doubt the services and punctuality of these trains are spotless.  However, contrary to popular beliefs, they are never the same.  Why so?  To understand this, you need to take a ride in the Japanese Bullet Train.  However, is Japan Rail Pass worth it for the short and long rides in the Japanese Bullet Train?  In today’s blog, I will discuss its benefits and disadvantages in detail.  Is Japan Rail Pass Worth It?  Japan Rail Pass is a physical pass for train rides. It is only for tourists.  With this pass, you can enjoy unlimited train rides across Japan. Also, these passes include bullet train rides for a specific time span.  Japan Rail Pass Cost Check out the table below to understand the validity period and prices of the Japan Rail Pass.  Japan Rail Pass ValidityOrdinary Japan Rail Pass Cost Green Japan Rail Pass Cost7 Days PassAdult: 70,000 YENChildren: 35,000 YENAdult: 50,000 YENChildren: 25,000 YEN14 Days PassAdult: 110000 YENChildren: 55000 YENAdult: 80000 YENChildren: 40000 YEN21 Days PassAdult: 140000 YENChildren: 70000 YENAdult: 100000 YENChildren: 50000 YEN All ticket prices are sourced from the Japanrailpass.net. Also, remember that children mean kids below 12 years old.  From 12 years onward, they are considered adults.  Is The Japan Rail Pass Worth It? (Considering The Cost)  If you think that buying a Japan Rail Pass would hurt your wallet, you are making a mistake.  Yes, the Japan Rail Pass is expensive, especially if you are buying a Green Japan Rail Pass.  Still, if you want to try individual rides, the cost will be even higher. For example, a single trip to Nara from Tokyo costs 14500 YEN.  A really smart way to decide whether the Japan Rail Pass is worth it or not is to use a Japan Rail Pass Calculator.  Enter the departure and arrival points, check the ticket price for individual rides, and add them. Then, compare the total Japan Rail Pass cost to decide whether you need to buy it or not.  Also, consider the flexibility the Japan Rail Pass offers.  With a Rail Pass, you can complete as many rides as you want within the validity period. Also, there is no rush to buy a ticket every time you board a train.  Is Japan Rail Pass Worth It For Every Train?  The Japan Rail Pass does not cover every train service in Japan. However, it covers most train services.  Check out the details in the box.  Services Covered by Japan Rail PassServices That Japan Rail Pass Does Not Cover - Most Bullet Trains- Express Trains- Local Trains- The Narita Express, Running to Tokyo City from Narita Airport- Tokyo Monorail to and From the Haneda Airport - Joyful Trains in Japan- Bullet Trains Except Mizuho and Nozomi- The Metro Service in Tokyo and Other Cities- The Ferry Service Of Yakushima Where To Buy A Japan Rail Pass From?  You can buy the Japan Rail Pass from an authorized agent based in your country. Sometimes, these passes are available at the Osaka or Tokyo Railway stations or Haneda and Narita airports.  However, these passes are available for a limited time, and they charge around 10-20% extra charges.  Furthermore, upon reaching Japan, you can even buy the pass online at JRailPass.com. You can expect a delivery of the physical pass within 3-5 business days based on your location.  How To Take The First Ride With The Japan Rail Pass?  You have to get your Japan Rail Pass stamped before using it. You have to choose the JR Counter entry at any local and bullet railway station to pass through and board the train.  The JR Officer will check your passport and the JR Pass before stamping it.  From the next ride onward, you just need to show your JR Pass.  Activating your JR Pass at the railway station is always a better idea, as you can activate it only when you need it.  Usually, when you activate the pass at the airport, a day or two is wasted from the validity period, as the city metro services do not accept those passes.  Is Japan Rail Pass Worth It? Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)  Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about whether the Japan Railway Pass is worth it or not.  1. Which Rail Pass Is The Best For Japan? The best Rail Pass for Japan will depend on your itinerary in Japan. For example, if you need to travel nationwide, you can choose a National Rail Pass for 7 to 21 days.On the other hand, Regional JR Passes are the best if you are focusing on specific regions such as Hokkaido or Kansai. 2. Can I Buy Japan Rail Pass From India? Yes, you can buy a Japan Rail Pass from India. In fact, it is a smart move to buy your Japan Rail Pass from an authorized agent in your country before starting the trip. At the Japanese Airports, buying the JR Pass can cost you 20-30% more. TBi Travels and Klook are some of the authorized services from which you can purchase the JR Pass online. When you buy the pass online from an authorized agent, you will receive an exchange order or a voucher via courier. You have to exchange that at the airport to collect the physical pass.  3. Can I Get Bento Boxes On The Trains In Japan? You can get Bento boxes at any railway station in Japan before boarding the train. You will also find vegan-friendly options for the bento boxes. However, you have to be very mindful about how you dispose of those bento boxes. You can throw them in the trash bins in the train, or after alighting from the train, you can dispose of them in the waste box at the station. You will not find trash cans frequently in Japan. So, you may have to carry them home if you do not dispose of them in time.  Read Also: Are You Planning A Trip To Osaka? This Is Your Quintessential Guide Festivals Of Light And Color: Experiencing Japan’s Vibrant Matsuri Is Japan Really An Expensive Place? Have A look