Guides to Tokyo and the days out around it
Everything here is written from journeys actually driven, which is why some of it argues against booking a car. The train beats a chauffeur to Shibuya, the autumn colour at Lake Chuzenji is finished by late November, and Daikoku closes its gate when the police decide it is full. Knowing that before you go is worth more than a page that promises everything.
5.0 · 18 Google reviewsBefore you travel
Haneda airport: taxi or private car? An honest comparison
Taxi, Uber or a private car from Haneda and Narita to Tokyo: what each really costs, the night surcharge, luggage, and when a taxi is simply the better choice.
Read the guide →How much does a private driver cost in Japan? Real prices for 2026
Real 2026 prices for a private driver in Japan: per hour, per day, airport and day trips, what is included, and why the cheapest quote can be illegal.
Read the guide →Car rental in Tokyo: drive yourself, or rent a car with a driver?
Renting a car in Tokyo as a tourist: what you need, the real cost with tolls and parking, and when a car with driver makes more sense.
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Do you tip drivers in Japan? Taxi and chauffeur etiquette
Tipping in Japan explained for taxis and private chauffeurs: when it is not expected, when a small gift is welcome, and how to say thank you the Japanese way.
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Tokyo's winter illuminations, seen properly, in one evening
The Tokyo winter illuminations from Marunouchi to Roppongi, when each one opens, and how a private car fits four displays into one evening.
Read the guide →Narita to Tokyo: private car or train?
How to get from Narita Airport to Tokyo: the private car, the N'EX train, the Skyliner and the bus compared, with times, effort and who each suits best.
Read the guide →How to get to Mt Fuji from Tokyo
How to visit Mt Fuji from Tokyo: the train and bus routes, the best viewpoints, when to go for clear views, and why many travellers choose a private car.
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Lake Kawaguchiko: a full day at Mt Fuji's classic lake
A full-day Lake Kawaguchiko trip from Tokyo: what you see, when Fuji reflects on the water, how the ten hours work.
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Chureito Pagoda: the iconic Mt Fuji photo, in a day
A full-day Chureito Pagoda trip from Tokyo: the famous five-story pagoda and Mt Fuji view, the climb, the best season.
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Oshino Hakkai: Mt Fuji's spring-water village, in a day
A full-day Oshino Hakkai trip from Tokyo: the eight spring-fed ponds and thatched village at the foot of Mt Fuji, what to see.
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The Fuji Fifth Station: up the mountain, in a day
A full-day Fuji Fifth Station trip from Tokyo: driving up the Subaru Line above the tree line, when it is open, what to expect.
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Mt Fuji and Hakone: mountain views and onsen, in a day
A full-day Mt Fuji and Hakone trip from Tokyo: Fuji views, Lake Ashi and its torii gate, the onsen valley, what fits in ten hours.
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How to visit Daikoku Parking Area without a car
Daikoku PA sits inside the Tokyo expressway network, so you cannot walk, cycle or take a train there.
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