An all-in-one autumn bus tour from Tokyo is one of the easiest — and most memorable — ways to see the changing colours. If you’re keen to see some fall foliage, but not so keen on navigating multiple trains, then a bus tour is the way to go.
There are a number of Tokyo bus tours available during the fall season (October to December), where all you have to do is kick back and relax while being ferried from one fabulous sight to another. Here are our top picks.
1. Mt. Fuji and Hakone tour
From ¥16,411 per adultBook here
This tour is popular year round, but autumn adds an extra dimension. You’ll visit the fifth station of Mount Fuji, cruise nearby Lake Ashi, and ride the Hakone Ropeway. Throughout the tour you’ll be treated to incredible views of fall foliage.
There are several options for pick-up locations in Tokyo, and you can also upgrade to include lunch (vegetarian, vegan, and halal options are available).
2. Ashikaga Flower Park Illuminations tour
¥11,480 per adultBook here
Extremely limited availability
This tour takes you to Tochigi Prefecture, where you’ll enjoy stunning views and a visit to a popular flower park. After departing Tokyo, your first stop is Mount Nasu (also known as nasudake). You’ll take the cable car up to the mountaintop observatory with its gorgeous views — made even more striking by the autumn foliage. Then you’ll get to enjoy a buffet lunch, before heading on to Ashikaga Flower Park.
While Ashikaga Flower Park is typically known for its wisteria in spring, you’re here for the illuminations. This evening event features light-up decorations throughout the gardens, creating a magical atmosphere.
3. Gunma Watarase Valley Railway autumn tour
¥12,500 per adultBook here
Most departures are in November
This special autumn foliage tour takes you from Tokyo to Gunma Prefecture. Along the way, you’ll stop at some of the best autumn-leaves viewing spots in the area. In the afternoon, you’ll take a scenic ride on the Watarase Valley Railway, and enjoy the views of Takatsudo Gorge. You’ll finish the day by visiting Ashikaga Flower Park to see the evening illuminations. An udon lunch set is included.
4. Karuizawa maple leaf tour
¥8,700 per adultBook here
Limited availability
Karuizawa is a popular autumn day trip from Tokyo, and this tour makes it easy too. You’ll visit two main locations — Kumoba Pond (also know as Unba Pond) and Megane Bridge. Both of these places are incredibly scenic and the fall foliage only makes them even more beautiful. You also have the choice of visiting either Old Karuizawa Ginza Street, or the more modern Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza.
Note: This tour takes place mainly in Japanese, with simple English translations.
Also read: 8 Autumn Day Trips From Tokyo To Give You Those Fall Feels
While we do our best to ensure it’s correct, information is subject to change. Post first published in October 2017. Last updated in September 2023 by Maria Danuco.
