Tokyo: Private Day Experience to Fujisawa with Lunch

Exploring Fujisawa: A Private Day Trip from Tokyo

Trying to decide whether a day trip to Fujisawa is worth your time? This private experience offers a blend of authentic Japanese cuisine, scenic coastal views, and cultural activities—all tailored for a personalized touch. From the moment you’re picked up in Tokyo to the leisurely return, it’s designed for travelers seeking a relaxed, immersive, yet manageable escape from the city buzz.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the luxurious lunch at Kurumaya, which is quite special because it’s the only restaurant in Japan honored in the Japanese Garden Ranking. Second, the scenic drive along Sagami Bay offers postcard-perfect views that seem to stretch forever. And third, the chance to try traditional Japanese clothing and participate in a photo shoot adds a delightful, memorable element.

However, a potential consideration is the eight-hour duration—you’ll want to be comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and travel. Also, this tour is not suitable for children under nine, which is important for families planning their trips. Overall, it’s best for those who love a mix of good food, cultural activities, and scenic landscapes—perfect for travelers craving an authentic experience without the hassle of planning.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience ensures personal attention and flexibility.
• Culinary highlight at Kurumaya features seasonal ingredients with options like kaiseki or teppanyaki.
• Stunning coastal scenery along Sagami Bay provides beautiful photo opportunities.
• Cultural activities include kimono dressing, garden strolls, and tea ceremonies.
• Time-efficient day trip ideal for travelers with limited schedules.
• Expert English-speaking guides enhance the experience with local insights.

The Detailed Breakdown of Your Fujisawa Day Trip

Convenient Pickup and Tailored Itinerary

Starting your day from Shinjuku, Shibuya, or Tokyo Station, the tour’s flexible pickup options make it easy to align with your local accommodations or preferred meeting points. Your guide, who speaks fluent English, will meet you in the hotel lobby, setting a welcoming tone from the start. The private nature of the tour guarantees a more personalized experience, with only your group involved—meaning you can ask questions, customize parts of the day, or just soak up the atmosphere without strangers.

The total duration clocks in at around eight hours, providing enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. The itinerary includes a photo stop in Fujisawa, a visit to local sites, a delicious lunch, and a scenic coastal drive, all wrapped into one seamless day.

Fujisawa’s Charm: A Mix of Old and New

Fujisawa might not be as famous as nearby Kamakura, but it offers a quieter, more authentic slice of Japan. The tour’s highlight is lunch at Kurumaya, a renowned restaurant that’s earned its place in the Japanese Garden Ranking. Here, you can indulge in a kaiseki meal—a traditional multi-course Japanese dinner—or opt for teppanyaki, cooked right before you by skilled chefs, using seasonal ingredients. The setting is equally special, as you dine overlooking a historic Japanese garden, adding a tranquil, scenic backdrop.

Many reviews highlight the quality of the food—fresh, beautifully presented, and authentically Japanese. Guests also appreciate the option to enhance their experience with kimono dressing and a photo shoot, transforming the day into a true cultural adventure. The kimono experience includes a garden stroll, perfect for capturing memorable photos, and the yukata (cotton kimono) becomes a keepsake of the day.

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Scenic Drive Along Sagami Bay

Post-lunch, you’ll hop into a private vehicle for a 40-minute scenic drive along Sagami Bay’s coastline. With the windows down and camera at the ready, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the bay, dotted with boats, cliffs, and lush greenery. Reviewers mention that this drive offers “breathtaking coastal scenery” that makes for fantastic photos—particularly if you’re a fan of natural beauty.

This drive isn’t just about the view—it’s a moment to relax and appreciate the calm, open landscapes of Japan’s coastal region. The driver and guide often share insights into the area’s history and geography, adding depth to the visual feast.

Cultural Enrichment: Kimono & Tea

Back at the garden or a designated cultural spot, you can try dressing in traditional Japanese clothes. The yukata or kimono experience is often described as fun and photogenic—a chance to feel like you’ve stepped into a different era. Many guests say that the photography session is one of the most enjoyable parts, with the guide helping you pose for memorable images.

Optionally, you can participate in a matcha tea ceremony, a ritual that embodies Japanese hospitality and mindfulness. This brief but immersive activity offers insight into the importance of tea in Japanese culture, often accompanied by sweet treats like wagashi.

Additional Features and Flexibility

The tour offers vegetarian and vegan meal options upon request, making it accommodating for dietary restrictions. It also includes private VIP rooms with tatami seating, giving your group a traditional, intimate dining experience.

If you prefer, you can customize your experience further. Some guests have added food tastings of regional specialties or extended their garden strolls. The flexibility of a private tour ensures that your day can be tailored to your interests, whether that’s more photo time, additional cultural activities, or simply soaking in the scenery.

What You Should Know Before Booking

While the tour is designed for comfort, note that biking is not permitted, and children under nine are not suited for this experience. The full-day format is ideal for those who enjoy engaging with their surroundings, but it requires a reasonable level of mobility and patience for travel.

The cost includes transportation, guide services, and activities, but it’s worth considering how much value you get from the experience. With a knowledgeable guide, authentic food, and exclusive cultural activities, many find it well worth the price—especially since it minimizes the hassle of planning and navigating on your own.

Communication prior to the tour relies on WhatsApp, so downloading the app is advised. Payment is flexible—reserve now and pay later, which adds convenience for travelers with unpredictable schedules.

The Bottom Line: Who Will Love This Tour?

This Fujisawa day trip is best for culture enthusiasts who want a taste of traditional Japan paired with scenic beauty. It suits travelers looking for a relaxed, all-in-one experience that combines sightseeing, authentic cuisine, and culture. The private setup makes it ideal for couples, families (with children over nine), or small groups who prefer a more tailored day without the crowds.

If you’re after a peaceful escape that offers both visual pleasure and cultural depth, this tour hits the mark. It’s a balanced mix of guided insights and personal moments, making it well-suited for curious travelers eager to explore Japan beyond the typical tourist spots.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not recommended for children under nine, likely due to the full-day schedule and some cultural activities that may not be engaging for younger kids.

Can I request vegetarian or vegan options?
Yes, vegetarian and vegan meal options are available upon request, ensuring dietary restrictions are accommodated.

What should I bring on the day?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, a camera for the scenic views and photos, and a light jacket or umbrella depending on the weather. A smartphone with WhatsApp installed is essential for communication.

How long is the scenic coastal drive?
The drive along Sagami Bay lasts approximately 40 minutes, providing plenty of time to enjoy the views without feeling rushed.

Can I customize the experience?
Yes, being a private tour, you can customize certain activities such as adding extra photo time, cultural activities, or food tastings.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation, the guide, lunch at Kurumaya, and cultural activities like kimono dressing and tea ceremonies. Additional purchases or personal extras are at your discretion.

To sum it up, this private Fujisawa experience is a thoughtfully curated day for those who want to enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine, picturesque coastal scenery, and cultural activities in a relaxed, flexible setting. It offers a perfect blend of guided insight and personal discovery, making it an ideal choice for travelers eager to explore beyond Tokyo’s city limits with comfort and authenticity. Whether you’re soaking in the garden views, capturing photos in traditional dress, or simply enjoying a delicious meal, this tour promises a memorable addition to your Japan journey.

You can check availability for your dates here: