What Are The Best Tours In Kanto? Our Top 9 Picks

Kanto is Japan’s bustling heart, and it’s also surprisingly diverse when it comes to tours. Whether you’re craving scenic bike rides around Mt. Akagi, relaxing in vintage hot spring towns, or diving into local culture and history, the region offers something for all. We especially love the Akagi Great countryside e-bike tour for its mix of scenic views and cultural insights, and the Hot Spring Town Walking Tour in Shima Onsen for a relaxing stroll through one of Japan’s most charming onsen towns. Plus, if you’re into unique spiritual experiences, the Private Tour in a Spiritual Hot Spot of Japan for Good Fortune is a must. Each of these offers a different slice of Kanto life, ensuring you’ll find something that matches your interests and pace.

Quick Overview

Kanto’s top tours range from active e-bike adventures and hill climbs to immersive town walks and spiritual shrine visits. For those who want an active day, the Akagi Great countryside e-bike tour offers a 6-hour ride through rice fields and heritage sites, perfect for cycling enthusiasts. If relaxation is more your style, the Hot Spring Town Walking Tour in Shima Onsen provides a cozy, cultural stroll through a vintage hot spring town. For a mix of culture, history, and spiritual discovery, the Birth of Takasaki’s White Robed Kannon Statue Guided Tour offers insight into local religious art, while the Oguri Kozukenosuke and Tonzen-ji Temple Historical Guided Tour explores Japan’s modernization history. Read on for detailed reviews of each.

1. Akagi Great countryside e-bike tour

At number 1, this Akagi Great countryside e-bike tour scores a perfect 5.0 with nine reviews, and it’s easy to see why. For about $113, you’ll spend roughly six hours pedaling through scenic towns at the foot of Mt. Akagi. The tour begins with a meet-up at Maebashi Station, where your guide hands you an e-bike and shares local insights. From there, you’ll explore Maebashi’s urban streets, then venture out into rice fields and countryside landscapes, enjoying the beauty of rural Gunma.

Key highlights include a visit to Santai Shrine, dedicated to safe childbirth, and Omuro Park, home to ancient tombs from the 5th-6th centuries. You’ll also stop for a hearty lunch at Ota Shokudo, a cozy restaurant serving Japanese katsu atop curry ramen or rice. The guide explains the stories behind these heritage sites, giving you a deeper understanding of local culture. The e-bike makes the 22 km climb manageable, even for beginners, thanks to the assist motor. Reviewers mention the trip’s smooth organization and the chance to see Japan’s countryside away from tourist crowds. The only challenge is balancing the ride with the countryside’s unpredictable weather.

Bottom Line: An ideal pick for active travelers wanting an authentic rural experience with historical and cultural depth.

2. Hot Spring Town Walking Tour in Shima Onsen

At number 2, this Hot Spring Town Walking Tour in Shima Onsen offers a relaxed, immersive experience. For just $29, you’ll explore this vintage hot spring town that feels frozen in the Showa era. Led by a local guide with over 40 years of experience, you’ll visit historic sites like the Sekizen-kan inn, credited as Japan’s oldest and inspiring the bath scene in the animated film “Spirited Away.”

The tour covers about 1.8 miles on foot and includes a walk along the old road that’s full of nostalgic charm. You’ll also learn about hot spring culture and local customs while chatting with residents. The highlight is wandering through shops and cafes, tasting local sweets at Kashiwaya Cafe, and soaking in the tranquil atmosphere. The town’s traditional architecture and peaceful natural setting make it perfect for those seeking a slow-paced, culturally rich outing. Reviews highlight how well the guide brings the history alive, making the visit both educational and enjoyable.

Bottom Line: Perfect for culture lovers and those wanting a laid-back day experiencing Japan’s onsen history and local life.

3. Takasaki Bar-Hopping Tour with Rooftop Bath Hotel Stay

Number 3 on our list is the Takasaki Bar-Hopping Tour with Rooftop Bath. At $552.80, it’s an investment in a full night’s entertainment. Starting at 6:30 pm in Takasaki’s Yanagawa district, you’ll explore a lively scene of izakayas and snack bars. Led by local guides, you’ll meet legendary bartenders and enjoy authentic Japanese pub dishes paired with local drinks.

What elevates this experience is the opportunity to dive into Takasaki’s nightlife, learning about local drinking customs and chatting with hosts. Afterward, unwind at the Hotel Grandview Takasaki, renowned for its panoramic hot springs, sauna, and stone spa—ranked No.1 in Gunma for four years straight. The combination of lively nightlife and relaxing spa makes this ideal for social travelers or those celebrating a special occasion. The downside? The price is higher than typical tours, but the unique access and hotel amenities deliver serious value.

Bottom Line: For those who love a night out with a comfortable spa finish, this is a memorable, high-end experience.

4. Akagi mountain E-Bike Hill Climbing Tour

Number 4 features the Akagi mountain E-Bike Hill Climbing Tour, perfect for adventure seekers. With a 5-hour itinerary, you’ll start from Maebashi Station and ride to the summit of Mt. Akagi, an iconic climb in Japan. Thanks to electric assist, the 22 km ascent becomes accessible even if you’re not a seasoned cyclist. The ride offers stunning views of the mountain landscape, and the group usually stops at a restaurant for lunch, included in the price.

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of physical challenge and expert guidance from local cycling guides. The route is famous for its beauty and the sense of achievement when reaching the top. The review mentions the challenge of the climb but highlights the e-bike’s role in making it feasible. The tour is best suited for active travelers comfortable with cycling and mountain terrain.

Bottom Line: A fantastic choice for cycling enthusiasts looking for a memorable hill climb with support to keep the effort fun, not exhausting.

5. Walking Tour at Akagane Roads in Midori City

The Walking Tour at Akagane Roads in Midori City offers a 1.5-hour exploration of the copper transport route along the Akagane Highway. This less-known part of Japan’s industrial past is brought to life as you walk through Sori, once the first post town on the highway. You’ll visit sites like Daitakuji, the local guardian temple, and the old cobbled road that once saw wagons transporting copper from the Ashio Copper Mine.

Led by a knowledgeable guide, this tour connects you with regional history without the crowds. While the review count is zero, the focus on local industry and old-world charm makes it appealing for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts. The walk is easy, making it suitable for most fitness levels, and the scenery is particularly evocative of Japan’s mining era.

Bottom Line: An excellent, quiet way to discover Japan’s copper trade history and enjoy a short, meaningful walk.

6. Private Tour in a Spiritual Hot Spot of Japan for Good Fortune

Number 6 is Private Tour in a Spiritual Hot Spot of Japan for Good Fortune. For around $14, you’ll visit Haruna Shrine, perched on Mt. Haruna’s slopes. The shrine’s origins date back to the 6th century, and it’s become a popular place for New Year visits. The guide, who knows the site intimately, will show you how to worship and share stories behind the shrine’s significance.

This tour offers an authentic spiritual experience in a peaceful setting, surrounded by lush forests and natural boulders. It’s perfect for travelers interested in local customs or seeking a moment of quiet reflection. The short duration makes it a good addition to a day of sightseeing in Gunma. While there are no reviews, the focus on cultural and spiritual practices makes it a meaningful experience.

Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a brief, genuine spiritual encounter in Japan’s countryside.

7. Birth of Takasaki’s White Robed Kannon Statue Guided Tour

At number 7, this Birth of Takasaki’s White Robed Kannon Statue offers a 1.5-hour glimpse into Takasaki’s spiritual artwork. Inside the temple of Jigen-in, your guide narrates the history of the Kannon statue—Japan’s only hollow statue of its kind. You’ll see exquisite paintings and statues inside and enjoy sweeping views of Takasaki from the top.

The tour is especially suited for art and religion enthusiasts. The guide’s storytelling turns the visit into a mini history lesson, revealing how the statue symbolizes compassion and modernization. The two reviews praise the tour’s depth and the spectacular views. The entry fee is included, making it a good value for the cultural insight offered.

Bottom Line: A fascinating choice for those interested in religious art and local history.

8. Private Haruna Volcano Guided Tour

Number 8 features the Private Haruna Volcano Guided Tour. For just over $21, this 1-hour tour explores Mt. Haruna’s volcanic landscape. You’ll walk around Lake Haruna, take in views from the Ropeway, and learn about the mountain’s geologic past from your guide.

It’s suited for travelers who want a short, scenic experience without strenuous activity. The highlight is the panoramic view from the summit and the serene surroundings of Lake Haruna. The tour provides a nice overview of the mountain’s natural history and is perfect for a quick escape from urban life.

Bottom Line: An accessible, scenic outing ideal for families or those short on time.

9. Oguri Kozukenosuke and Tonzen-ji Temple Historical Guided Tour

Finally, the Oguri Kozukenosuke and Tonzen-ji Temple Historical Guided Tour offers a 2-hour deep dive into Japan’s modernization story. You’ll visit Tozenji, the family temple of Oguri Kozukenosuke, a key figure in Japan’s 19th-century transformation. The temple’s Head Priest shares rare artifacts and stories of this influential statesman, making it a compelling visit for history buffs.

This tour is particularly valuable for those interested in Japan’s political and social change during the Edo to Meiji transition. The free admission and access to artifacts make it a cost-effective way to learn more about Japan’s past.

Bottom Line: Highly recommended for history enthusiasts eager to explore Japan’s modernization firsthand.

How to Choose the Right Tour in Kanto

Picking the perfect tour depends on your interests and how you like to travel. If you’re looking for a physical challenge and scenic views, the Akagi mountain E-Bike Hill Climbing Tour is a great choice. For a relaxing cultural experience, the Shima Onsen hot spring walk offers a peaceful stroll through history. Interested in spiritual or historical insights? The Birth of Takasaki’s Kannon and Oguri Kozukenosuke tour give you a glimpse into Japan’s religious and political past.

Budget-conscious travelers can opt for the shorter, affordable Haruna Shrine tour or the hot spring walk. For those seeking an evening adventure, the Takasaki bar-hopping experience offers a lively night with a luxurious spa finish.

When booking, consider seasonality—spring and autumn often enhance scenic tours—and advance reservations for popular activities like the hotel stay or guided visits. Whether you want to cycle, soak, explore, or experience spirituality, Kanto’s tour lineup won’t disappoint.

In summary, Kanto offers a rich mix of experiences that cater to diverse interests and activity levels. For a full immersion into local culture, history, or nature, these top tours are excellent options. Two standout choices are the Akagi countryside e-bike tour for active explorers and the Shima Onsen walk for those seeking a peaceful, cultural escape. No matter your preference, booking early ensures you get the dates and experiences that match your plans.