Hato Bus (Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi/Stripes Japan)

When you PCS to a military base in Japan, you may want to take a quick one‑day trip to Tokyo, the nation’s capital. Or, even though you are already stationed in Japan, the refreshing early summer is a perfect time to enjoy Tokyo’s countless attractions via open-top, double decker bus!

Book a “Tokyo Panorama Drive” aboard the Hato Bus Company’s O Sola Mio starting from 2,200 yen to 2,400 yen per person depending on the day. The open-top double-decker bus cruises the city’s iconic sites in just one hour and it is a lot of fun!

I recently joined a daytime tour departing from Tokyo Station to enjoy the sights and sounds of the big city. Up on the second deck, I was amazed at the view from a completely different angle seen while walking or riding a train. The open-air atmosphere made me excited even before the departure.

Once the bus set off, the bus guide began introducing major attractions around the capital. I enjoyed the refreshing breeze while spotting key landmarks, such as the Imperial Palace, the National Diet Building and Tokyo Tower along some of Tokyo’s tallest skyscrapers. Thanks to the knowledgeable bus guide, I was able to learn about their history, scale and significance while enjoying the stunning 360‑degree panoramic views.

Tokyo Tower and Azabudai Hills (Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi/Stripes Japan)

National Diet (Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi/Stripes Japan)

Tokyo’s skyscrapers (Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi/Stripes Japan)

Tokyo Station (Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi/Stripes Japan)

When the bus entered the Shuto Expressway, the guide mentioned that it would feel like a roller coaster and she was just right! The strong gale from Tokyo Bay nearly blew off my ball cap, as the open‑top bus crossed the Rainbow Bridge. It felt almost like riding a jet ski rather than a roller coaster to me.

Tokyo Bayside area (Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi/Stripes Japan)

From Tokyo’s symbolic bridge, I could see Tokyo Skytree, the majestic Toyosu Market, several arenas and stadiums in Ariake district and the city’s impressive waterfront and ships. As we approached the high-end Ginza District, I also spotted the Kabuki‑za Theatre and the Wako Clock Tower.

Kabuki-za Theatre (Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi/Stripes Japan)

Before the tour ended, the guide sang the Hato Bus theme song, as she turned out to be a wonderful singer, I couldn’t help but ask to take a photo with her when I disembarked the O Sola Mio.

The double‑decker open‑top bus tour was a memorable experience, and I truly felt that this 60‑minute, 2,200‑yen ride was worth recommending.

Hato Bus offers not only daytime tours, but also several evening drives where you can enjoy Tokyo’s incredible night views.

So, if you want to check out the heart of Tokyo effectively and quickly, join the Hato Bus Panorama Drive!

Hato Bus Tokyo Open Top Tours

Tokyo Panorama Drive, Tokyo Discover Night Drive and Tokyo Premium Night Drive