By Experience JAPAN
This video offers a rare front-row experience aboard the largest double-decker bus in Japan, the “Gran Hiru Tokkyu 2,” as it travels from Osaka to Tokyo. The presenter secures the coveted front seat on the upper deck, providing panoramic views throughout the long-distance journey. Along the way, travelers are treated to picturesque glimpses of Mt. Fuji, one of Japan’s most iconic natural landmarks, especially spectacular from the height and clear vantage point of the upper deck. The double-decker bus service is popular for those seeking a comfortable, scenic, and economical option for intercity travel between Japan’s key metropolitan areas.
Upon arriving in Tokyo, the adventure continues with a visit to the unique Scarecrow Village in Saitama Prefecture the following day. Scarecrow (kakashi) villages are rural communities known for replacing population decline with life-sized scarecrow figures, creating an intriguing yet eerie landscape. These villages, inspired by the famous Nagoro Village in Tokushima, have become curious tourist attractions, blending art, social commentary, and rural revitalization. Saitama’s version offers visitors a chance to reflect on rural depopulation in Japan while enjoying a distinct cultural experience.
The video provides practical information for travelers, including a booking link for the Gran Hiru Tokkyu 2 service, and showcases stunning bus and countryside footage. The experience highlights unique sightseeing possibilities between Osaka and Tokyo, and illustrates the growing popularity of immersive regional tourism in Japan. Whether you’re interested in alternative transportation modes or exploring quirky, off-the-beaten-path destinations, this journey illustrates rich travel possibilities only found in Japan.