2-Day Tour-The Best of Japan

Exploring Japan’s capital and iconic mountain in just two days sounds ambitious — but this tour manages to pack in a lot without feeling rushed. Offered by Pingan First Travel for around $600 per person, it’s designed for travelers eager to see Tokyo’s highlights and experience the natural grandeur of Mt. Fuji with a single, well-organized package.

What we really appreciate about this trip is the careful balance it strikes between city discovery and outdoor scenery. The guided approach helps you unlock hidden gems you might not stumble upon on your own, while the scenic Mt. Fuji excursion offers postcard-perfect views and peaceful moments away from Tokyo’s hustle.

One aspect to keep in mind is the pace. It’s a long day on day one, with around 10 hours filled with walking, public transport, and sightseeing. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a full itinerary and can handle busy days. If you’re looking for a relaxed, slow-paced trip, this might feel a little intense. Still, for those craving a comprehensive taste of Japan, this tour offers solid value and authentic experiences.

Highly experienced guides lead the way, adding depth with local insights.
Diverse itinerary covers Tokyo’s most iconic and lesser-known sights.
Scenic views of Mt. Fuji from multiple vantage points are a highlight.
Cultural immersion with visits to temples, shrines, markets, and traditional villages.
Well-rounded activities including craft-making and leisurely lake walks.
All-included guided tours mean no hidden costs—just bring your curiosity and appetite.

A whirlwind tour of Tokyo’s essentials, Day 1, is designed to give you a taste of everything — history, fashion, food, and bustling city life. The day kicks off at 9:00 am with a pickup, and you’ll be introduced to 15 attractions that showcase Tokyo’s multifaceted personality.

Meiji Jingu Shrine sets a peaceful tone early on. This Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shken is a quiet oasis amid Tokyo’s chaos. Reviewers mention how the walk through the forested approach “really transports you away from the city’s rush,” and many are surprised at how serene and spiritual the site feels, despite being so close to Harajuku’s eccentric fashion streets.

Harajuku is next, famous for its daring street fashion and vibrant energy. Visitors love watching the creative styles and popping into boutiques that seem to sprout on every corner. A favorite stop is the giant Hachiko statue outside Shibuya Station — a touching reminder of loyalty and a popular photo op for travelers.

Shibuya Crossing lives up to its reputation as the world’s busiest pedestrian scramble. Standing in the middle, watching hundreds of people cross from all directions, is a quintessential Tokyo moment. Many recall their first time here as exhilarating and slightly overwhelming, but it’s a must-see.

Cultural highlights continue with Tsukiji Hongan-ji Temple and the historic Tsukiji Fish Market. The temple’s striking architecture contrasts with the lively market scene, where fresh seafood and vibrant stalls are a feast for the senses. Reviewers appreciate the chance to see Tokyo’s culinary heart beating in this neighborhood and often comment on how fresh the sushi tasted during their visit.

Imperial Palace and Marunouchi provide a glimpse into Japan’s imperial heritage and modern business hub. While the palace grounds can’t be entered on this tour, the walk outside is enough for many to appreciate Tokyo’s blend of old and new.

Akihabara, the electronics and anime mecca, is a favorite among fans of manga and gadget enthusiasts. Visitors mention how “impressive the sheer variety of gadgets and collectibles” is, and many love soaking in the pop culture vibe.

Ueno Park and Ameyoko Market round out the day. Ueno’s spacious greenery offers a breather, while the busy market street teems with souvenirs, snacks, and local flavor — a lively spot for people-watching and picking up souvenirs.

Finally, Senso-ji Temple and Asakusa Shrine serve as beautiful reminders of Tokyo’s spiritual traditions. The vibrant shopping street leading to Senso-ji, called Nakamise-dori, is packed with traditional snacks and souvenirs, making it a lively, colorful finale to Day 1.

The second day shifts gears to nature and tranquility. After a convenient pickup from central Tokyo, you’ll head out early to enjoy the panoramic beauty of Japan’s tallest peak. The excursion includes stops at classic viewpoints like Mt. Nikura Asama Park and Oishi Park, where spring blooms or fall foliage frame Mt. Fuji perfectly.

Many reviewers mention how the views from Mt. Nikura Asama Park are worth the early start — “I felt like I was looking at a painting,” says one traveler. During clear days, the mountain’s snow-capped summit dominates the skyline, providing stunning photo opportunities.

Kawaguchiko Lake offers a quieter moment. Here, you can stroll around, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and enjoy lakeside scenery. The included craft-making activity is a charming addition, giving you a hands-on connection to traditional Japanese arts.

Oishi Park shines with seasonal flowers, and many travelers comment on how beautiful it is to see Mt. Fuji reflected in the lake’s surface, especially during cherry blossom or sunflower seasons. It’s a perfect spot for photos or a relaxed picnic.

A highlight of the day is Saiko Iyashi no Sato Nemba, a recreated traditional village with thatched-roof houses. Reviewers mention how walking through this village feels like stepping into Japan’s past, with some trying on old-style clothing or watching craft demonstrations.

This day wraps up around 7 pm, leaving you with plenty of memories of Japan’s natural and cultural contrasts.

The tour includes guided commentary from knowledgeable local guides, who seem to genuinely enjoy sharing their insights. Many reviews mention guides by name, praising their friendliness and expertise, which adds depth to the experience. The tour price of $600 covers guided tours, scenic views, craft activities, and some transportation costs, making it competitive considering the scope.

While the tour covers a lot, some travelers noted the long hours and busy schedule — if you’re not used to packed days, be prepared for a full-on adventure. Meals are not included, but the itinerary suggests budget-friendly options for lunch and dinner, usually around $13-$20. Bottled water is provided on Day 1, and air-conditioned transport on Day 2 adds comfort during the long drive.

The group size is capped at 15, which strikes a balance between intimacy and efficiency. Smaller groups tend to offer more personalized attention, which many reviewers appreciated.

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a rundown of Tokyo’s highlights and the chance to see Mt. Fuji without arranging separate trips. It’s perfect for first-timers wanting an authentic, guided experience that mixes cultural sites, scenic vistas, and lively urban spots.

If you enjoy guided tours with rich commentary, diverse activities, and a mix of urban and outdoor scenery, this tour will suit you well. It’s also great for those who don’t mind a long day’s pace and are excited about sampling Japan’s iconic sights in just two days.

This 2-day tour offers an impressive blend of Japan’s urban vibrancy and natural beauty. With expert guides leading the way, you’ll uncover hidden corners of Tokyo, enjoy breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji, and learn about local customs and history along the way. The scenic stops and cultural activities provide a well-rounded experience that appeals to a wide range of travelers.

While it’s a packed schedule, the value is clear when considering the number of attractions covered, the quality of guided insights, and the memorable scenery. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors eager for a broad, authentic taste of Japan without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

If you’re looking for a tour that balances sightseeing, culture, and natural splendor, this 2-day experience is a solid choice that will leave you with plenty of stories and stunning photos.

Is transportation included in the tour?
Transportation is mainly covered within the guided tour activities, but you’ll need to pay about $10 for local transport on Day 1.

What is the starting time for the tour?
The tour begins at 9:00 am, with pickups arranged in central Tokyo.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but the itinerary suggests affordable options for both lunch and dinner around $13-$20 each.

How long is each day’s tour?
Day 1 runs approximately 10 hours, and Day 2 is a full day, roughly 10 hours, including travel and sightseeing.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
While most travelers can participate, the long hours and walking might be challenging for very young children or those with limited mobility.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, a hat, and sun protection are recommended. Bottled water is provided on Day 1, and weather-appropriate clothing is advised for outdoor scenic spots.

Can I customize this tour?
This specific itinerary is fixed, but you may want to check with the provider for any options to tailor the experience.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Small group sizes foster a friendly atmosphere, making it easy to meet fellow travelers.

To sum it up, this 2-day tour offers a well-paced, enriching experience of Japan’s cultural and natural treasures. It’s perfect for those who want to maximize their time, learn from expert guides, and come away with authentic memories of Tokyo and Mt. Fuji.