TOKYO OishiPark, Oshino & KoedoKawagoe, Fuji Mount

Experience the Best of Fuji, Oshino, and Kawagoe in One Day

If you’re after a well-rounded glimpse of Japan’s natural and historic highlights without the hassle of planning, this guided day trip from Tokyo might be just what you need. For about $85, you’ll spend roughly 10 hours visiting Oishi Park with its stunning views of Mount Fuji, the serene springs of Oshino Hakkai, and the nostalgic streets of Koedo Kawagoe. The tour departs early from Shinjuku Station, featuring a comfortable, air-conditioned coach, a knowledgeable guide, and plenty of opportunities to appreciate Japan’s unique landscapes and traditional towns.

There are two things we particularly like about this trip. First, the spectacular views of Mount Fuji from Oishi Park and Kawaguchi Lake are simply unforgettable—perfect for photos or just soaking in the scenery. Second, the chance to stroll through Kawagoe’s Edo-period streets offers an authentic feel of historic Japan, away from the modern hustle.

A possible drawback? The tour involves a long day spent mostly on a coach, with some reviews mentioning traffic delays and limited time at each stop. So, if you’re keen on deep exploration or have mobility concerns, this might not be ideal. Still, for those wanting a snapshot of Fuji’s beauty paired with cultural charm, this tour offers a good balance.

This experience is especially suitable for travelers who appreciate scenic landscapes, cultural heritage, and manageable group sizes. If your time in Japan is limited but you want to see a mix of nature and history, this day trip can fit your schedule well. Just keep in mind that some reviews have expressed frustration over the long hours in transit, so if you prefer a more leisurely pace, you might consider other options.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery at Oishi Park and Lake Kawaguchi with Mount Fuji views.
• Cultural sights like Oshino Hakkai’s natural springs and Kawagoe’s Edo-style streets.
• Efficient transportation included in the price, with a professional guide.
• Long day, with some travel delays noted in reviews.
• Suitable for those wanting a balanced mix of nature and traditional culture.
• Not ideal for travelers seeking a slow-paced or in-depth exploration.

Exploring the Stops: What You Can Expect

Oishi Park — Scenic Views and Photo Opportunities

Oishi Park is a highlight of this trip, perched on the northern shores of Lake Kawaguchi. We loved the way the park’s gardens frame Mount Fuji, especially when the weather cooperates—clear days offer picture-perfect vistas that make the effort worthwhile. The park’s seasonal blooms—cherry blossoms in spring, lavender in summer, fiery red leaves in autumn—add a splash of color that changes throughout the year.

While admission isn’t included, the views are free to enjoy, and we recommend bringing your camera. As one reviewer noted, “We loved the way the mountain looked from here, especially at sunrise or sunset.” Given how popular this spot is, expect some crowds in peak seasons, but it’s still a peaceful place to pause and admire Japan’s iconic volcano.

Oshino Hakkai — Spring Water and Traditional Village

Next, you’ll visit Oshino Hakkai, a collection of eight crystal-clear spring ponds fed by Mount Fuji’s snowmelt. The water’s purity is almost startling—many visitors, including ourselves, enjoy tasting the water directly from the ponds, which are renowned for their cleanliness. Visitors often comment on the mythological connection to the eight-headed dragon, adding a layer of cultural intrigue.

Expect to spend about two hours here. The village surrounding the ponds features traditional thatched-roof houses, and you might find local shops selling souvenirs and snacks. One traveler mentioned, “The ponds are incredibly picturesque, and the traditional setting makes you feel like stepping back in time.” Since the water is fed from Fuji’s snow, it’s an example of the natural purity that Japan values highly.

Koedo Kawagoe — Nostalgic Streets and Historic Sights

The final stop is Koedo Kawagoe, often called “Little Edo” because of its well-preserved Edo-period architecture. We loved wandering down narrow streets lined with wooden buildings, shops, and food stalls. The highlight here is the Kawagoe Castle and the Kitain Temple, home to over 500 wooden Buddha statues.

You’ll have about three hours to explore, which allows enough time to savor some sweet potato treats—Kawagoe’s famous snack—or browse traditional shops. As one reviewer praised, “The streets are so charming and full of history, it felt like stepping into Japan’s past.” This stop offers a tangible connection to Japan’s Edo-era, making it a favorite for history buffs and those wanting a break from modern Tokyo.

Transportation and Guide: What You Need to Know

The tour’s air-conditioned vehicle makes traveling between these spots comfortable, but be prepared for some long hours on the road. Traffic delays have been noted, with some reviewers mentioning up to two and a half hours stuck in traffic, which cuts into sightseeing time. While the guide is fluent in English and Chinese, and generally praised for their knowledge, the long transit times mean you’ll want a good book or music to pass the time.

The tour is designed for groups up to 45 travelers, with most participants being reasonably well-prepared for a full day. Meeting at Shinjuku Station’s L Tower makes it accessible, especially for those staying in central Tokyo.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For the price, the round-trip transportation and professional guide are included, which adds value by taking the hassle out of navigating public transport or rental cars. However, meals and extra drinks are on your own, so consider bringing snacks or cash for souvenirs and snacks at each stop. Also, admission fees to the parks and museums are not included, so budget accordingly if you wish to go inside any attractions.

What the Reviews Say

The overall rating is 4.0 based on four reviews, with some mixed feedback. One traveler mentioned, “It was a long day on the coach bus, and we didn’t spend much time at each stop,” which is worth noting. Traffic delays and limited time at each site were common complaints, but many still appreciated the organized itinerary and the scenic views.

A standout review from a recent visitor praised the trip as “one of the best local tours,” citing reasonable pricing, a well-planned journey, and a knowledgeable guide. This shows that, despite some logistical hiccups, the tour delivers in terms of content and value.

The Sum Up: Who Will Find This Tour Most Valuable?

This day trip offers a well-rounded experience for those who want to see Mount Fuji’s iconic beauty, enjoy Japan’s natural springs, and walk through historic streets—all in one day. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but eager to tick multiple boxes on your Japan wish list. The guided nature of the tour means you won’t need to worry about logistics, leaving you free to enjoy the scenery and culture.

However, if you’re someone who prefers a more relaxed pace or in-depth exploration, the long hours on the bus and the limited time at each stop might be less appealing. Families with kids or travelers with mobility challenges should also consider the duration and itinerary.

Overall, for value, scenic beauty, and cultural authenticity, this tour offers a good introduction to Japan beyond Tokyo’s urban core. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors wanting a snapshot of Fuji’s grandeur paired with some of Japan’s charming towns.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour price?
Yes, round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle is included in the $85.02 per person fee.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, starting at 8:00 am and ending back at the meeting point in Shinjuku.

Are admission fees included?
No, admission to parks and attractions like Oishi Park, Oshino Hakkai, and Kawagoe are not included, so plan accordingly.

Can I participate if I don’t speak Chinese or English?
The guide is fluent in both languages, making it suitable for travelers who speak either language.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, some cash for souvenirs or snacks, and possibly motion sickness medication if you’re prone to travel sickness.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but keep in mind the long hours on the coach. Families with young children should consider their comfort with extended bus travel.

What happens if the weather isn’t good?
The tour requires good weather to enjoy the scenery. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This guided tour balances scenic vistas, cultural insights, and manageable logistics, making it a solid choice for travelers eager to experience Japan’s beautiful countryside and historic towns in one trip. Whether you’re capturing Mount Fuji’s perfect cone or wandering through Edo-era streets, this day trip provides a worthwhile taste of Japan’s diverse charm.