Beyond the Bullet Train: The Most Unique & Scenic Ways to Travel Japan
Often the journey is just as important as the destination, and where better to experience this than in a country where futuristic bullet trains meet traditional rickshaws and suspended mono-rails in a seemingly parallel universe. Leave the tour bus at home and get ready to re-discover Japan’s stunning landscapes and rich culture from a whole new perspective...
Ferry Rides & Cruises: Explore Japan’s Islands in Style
Home to over 14 thousand islands, Japan’s isles are often overlooked in favour of Tokyo and Kyoto, but make for an incredible incentive destination. Think coastal views, floating sunset dinners and idyllic white sand beaches and what better way to experience this than on the water itself
Best Routes & Experiences:
Miyajima Ferry – Witness the famous floating Torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine as you approach the island.
Naoshima Art Island – A must for art lovers, Naoshima features world-renowned installations and museums.
Hokkaido to Aomori Ferry – A scenic overnight ferry ride connecting Japan’s northernmost and main islands.
Okinawa Ferries – Travel between the idyllic islands of Okinawa, where crystal-clear waters and white sand beaches await.
Siversea Cruises – Looking to see it all? Why not plan a full tip-to-toe trip across Japan with one of Silversea's cruises which spans through Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto as well as the more remote port towns of Hakodate and Shimizu.
Incentive Idea: Arrange a private charter ferry with gourmet catering for an exclusive, relaxed experience for your group. Plus, why not add a live traditional music performance onboard for an extra cultural touch.
Cable Cars & Ropeways: Aerial Views of Japan
Head above the clouds and discover Japan’s mountainous landscapes as cable cars and ropeways make for a thrilling new way to travel.
Best Routes & Experiences:
Hakone Ropeway – A panoramic journey with stunning views of Mount Fuji and Owakudani’s volcanic vents.
Mount Takao Cable Car – The steepest cable car ride in Japan, perfect for team-building hikes.
Kobe Nunobiki Ropeway – Stunning city views and a stop at an herbal garden retreat.
Mt. Koya Cable Car – Take this ride to access one of Japan’s most sacred Buddhist sites.
Incentive Idea: End the day with a private sunset dining experience at a mountain-top restaurant with sweeping views. Arrange a guided meditation or tea ceremony at the summit for a serene finish.
Rickshaw Rides: Step Back in Time
For a truly nostalgic experience, there’s nothing quite like a traditional rickshaw ride. These charming, hand-pulled vehicles allow your group to explore Japan’s most historic and picturesque locations at a leisurely pace. It’s a perfect way to immerse your guests in the old-world charm of Japan while offering a tranquil break from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
Best Routes & Experiences:
Kyoto’s Arashiyama Bamboo Grove – Glide through the towering bamboo stalks for a serene experience.
Asakusa, Tokyo – Explore the traditional streets near Senso-ji Temple.
Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter – A charming canal-side town with beautifully preserved Edo-period buildings.
Incentive Idea: Include a kimono rental experience so participants can truly immerse themselves in old-world Japan. Follow the ride with a guided storytelling session about the region’s history.
Water Bus: Tokyo from a Different Angle
Take your group on a journey through Tokyo’s waterways for a unique perspective of the city’s skyline. A water bus is a perfect blend of sightseeing and transportation, offering stunning views of the city’s most iconic landmarks from the water. Whether cruising during the day or evening, it’s an unforgettable way to experience Tokyo’s contrast of modern innovation and historic charm
Best Routes & Experiences:
Asakusa to Odaiba – Travel from Tokyo’s oldest district to the modern entertainment hub.
Tokyo Bay Night Cruise – Perfect for a cocktail networking event under city lights.
Himiko Water Bus – A futuristic-designed ferry that feels like a scene from a sci-fi movie.
Incentive Idea: Book a private evening cruise with live entertainment, gourmet sushi, and sake pairing sessions.
Ofuna to Enoshima Suspended Monorail: A Thrill Ride Above the City
An experience in itself, this 14-minute ride takes you high above the city, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, the Enoshima island, and the surrounding landscapes. With a mere single rail separating you from the gliding hills below, it’s a chance to really feel the thrill of the journey, with many comparing the feeling to that of a rollercoaster.
Incentive Idea:
Plan a beachside dinner at Enoshima with fresh seafood after the ride. After dinner, surprise them with a visit to the Enoshima Lighthouse, where they can take in panoramic views of the coastline, especially striking at night when the city lights shimmer along the shore. It’s an unforgettable combination of adventure, culture, and natural beauty – the perfect incentive experience.
Bullet Trains (Shinkansen): The Pinnacle of Efficiency & Comfort
When it comes to speed, comfort, and seamless travel, Japan’s iconic Shinkansen (bullet trains) stand unrivaled. Known for their punctuality, luxury, and smooth ride, these high-speed trains allow groups to cover long distances quickly while enjoying panoramic views of the country’s diverse landscapes. Whether it's the majestic sight of Mount Fuji, the underground adventure to Hokkaido, or the unique volcanic vistas of Kyushu, the Shinkansen offers a travel experience that is both efficient and breathtaking. For those planning a luxury incentive, it’s not just about getting from point A to point B—it’s about enjoying the journey in style.
Best Routes & Experiences:
Tokyo to Kyoto (Tokaido Shinkansen) – The most popular route, with Mount Fuji views.
Tokyo to Hokkaido (Hokkaido Shinkansen) – A high-speed ride through an underwater tunnel!
Kagoshima Route – Ride through Kyushu’s volcanic landscape.
Incentive Idea: Book a first-class "Green Car" experience for VIP treatment and impeccable service. Add a gourmet bento box featuring regional delicacies from each stop.
Biking: Explore at Your Own Pace
For those who want to immerse themselves in Japan's natural beauty at a slower pace, biking is the perfect way to explore. With its well-maintained cycling paths and stunning landscapes, Japan offers a variety of biking routes that allow participants to discover hidden gems and scenic vistas, all while enjoying the outdoors. Whether it’s a peaceful ride through Kyoto’s historical canals or cycling through the picturesque lavender fields of Hokkaido, biking offers a unique and flexible way to connect with the destination. Plus, it’s a great option for team-building and fostering a sense of adventure during your incentive trip.
Best Routes & Experiences:
Kyoto’s Philosopher’s Path – A tranquil ride along a cherry blossom-lined canal.
Shimanami Kaido – A breathtaking cycling route across the Seto Inland Sea.
Hokkaido’s Lavender Fields – Ride through fields of blooming lavender in Furano.
Incentive Idea: Organize a scavenger hunt on bikes through a historic city like Nara or Kanazawa.
Walking Tours: The Ultimate Slow Travel Experience
To truly soak in the atmosphere of Japan, there's no better way than on foot. Walking allows guests to take in the intricate details of the surroundings—whether it’s the tranquil beauty of Kyoto’s historic districts or the awe-inspiring scenery along ancient samurai paths. Japan’s cities and countryside offer a wealth of exploration, from hidden temples tucked away in lush gardens to bustling streets filled with local culture. Walking tours offer an intimate, immersive way to experience the destination, making them perfect for incentive groups looking for a relaxed yet enriching activity.
Best Routes & Experiences:
Higashiyama District, Kyoto – Stroll past teahouses, shrines, and traditional shops.
Nakasendo Trail – Follow an ancient samurai walking route between Edo-period towns.
Tottori Sand Dunes – Explore Japan’s only desert-like landscape by foot.
Incentive Idea: Arrange a private food tasting tour featuring local sake, matcha, and regional delicacies. Add a surprise stop at a hidden temple or garden.
Final Thoughts
For event planners and incentive agencies, Japan offers transportation that goes beyond simply getting from A to B—each journey is an experience in itself. Whether it’s a VIP charter ferry, an exclusive Shinkansen ride, or a hands-on rickshaw tour, integrating these transport methods into your incentive programs ensures a truly immersive and unforgettable event.
Ready to plan an extraordinary incentive in Japan? Click here to explore some of the best hotels in the region as well as the top experiences.