Many families ask me this question when they are at the beginning planning stages of their Japan vacation. (If you are at the beginning dreaming and planning stages – read this first!)
And, I get it – with kids you’re thinking “A hop on hop off bus is going to be so much easier!”
Sorry. But I’m shaking my head slowly…..
I really don’t recommend using these buses and here is why:
Major cities in Japan are a “get down on the ground level” (and under the ground level!) experience. It can be fab for cities like LA or Sydney or New York to help you get a feel for where things are – Japanese major cities aren’t laid out in this way.
The ground level in Japan is where you experience Japanese hospitality. It’s where you get a bit “lost” (one of the many reasons I believe everyone must have excellent internet options while seeing Japan) and wander down little cool alleyways, into little shops or check out little festivals or food events.
I just think it is really doing the cities and yourself a disservice.
It’s a bit cheeky to say but most built up Japanese cities are, in my opinion, not very nice to look at from above. Traffic can be slow and congested. Lots of grey. Lots of windows. Lots of grey.
Everyone falls in love with Japan for the character and charm.
Everyone falls in love with Japan for the details.
Most people who live in the major cities in Japan don’t own a car. So many of the little walkways are only accessible on foot. }
Pretty much all of my favourite restaurants are not on the ground floor or very visible from the street (they are found on the 8th or 9th floors or underneath the main streets.)
My favourite Japanese gardens have a wall around them.
Everywhere is accessible – but from a bus rooftop …. you’re missing it all!!!
I think if I did a few days in Japan and only saw Japan from one of these buses, I would honestly be like “I don’t get the hype about this place.”
Japan is for exploring. It’s all the nooks and crannies. Its the safety and service within all of these nooks and crannies that make everyone feel like they are the only one who has ever been to Japan – because their own experience feels so unique… and that’s because it is.
The trains are so reliable and handy but they also will walk you through the walkways and shopping malls that make Japan “Japan!”
There is a reason why the locals use trains and then walk the rest. Advertisers know this. City planners also know this – and line up the cool things accordingly.
In theory, sounds good to have this transportation option sorted – but train stations are everywhere. You don’t have to return to just one spot for the bus.
If you are worried about your kids walking far then I strongly recommend making use of my area guides as I weave in the playgrounds and fun spots for kids. A solid itinerary also schedules in options for lovely sit-down meals and the opportunity to pace yourself. When in need for them – the occasional taxi ride can also help get you back to your accommodation quickly too.
See here for 35+ family-friendly restaurants in Shibuya
See here why google maps in Japan is elite (and how you can avoid stairs)
When is it a good idea to book a hop on hop off bus in Japan?
If you are travelling with Granny and Grandpa and they have significant accessibility issues – this can make them feel like they have “done lots” without actually having to physically do much at all.
If someone in your group has the travel grumps – chuck them on the bus to go round and round while you have actual fun!
