1 888 263 2574
background-destination
Top 10 temples in Japan - Women in traditional japanese kimonos walking at Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto, Japan
Meiji Shrine in Tokyo city
Highlights of Japan by JR Rail

Highlights of Japan by JR Rail

18 Days from $12,190 USD / person

Sample Itinerary

Day 1 – 5

International Arrival

Shared Transfer from Narita Airport to Tokyo Hotel (including airport assistance)

4 Nights

Tokyo

Tokyo is modern Japan’s beating heart. Here austere Shinto shrines sit cheek-by-jowl with vibrant shopping centers, and glitzy high-rises tower over beautiful cherry blossom trees. The city offers everything from history and culture to shopping, entertainment and great food. If you are looking for something, chances are you will find it in Tokyo. The city’s food scene is second to none. Tokyo features local and regional Japanese cuisine as well as international cuisines of all flavors. Its chefs have more Michelin stars than any other city but even small, tucked away places are likely to serve delicious food. There are dozens of museums of all stripes. The Tokyo National Museum is spread across multiple buildings and houses the largest collection of national treasures and important cultural items in Japan. The National Museum of Western Art was designed by the famous Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier and is a world heritage site. The city is also home to the Tokyo Skytree, the tallest structure in Japan. Head up to the deck for stunning, panoramic views of the city.

Hotel options

Shiba Park Hotel – Opt 1
Room Deluxe King
Meals Breakfast
Style International
Keio Plaza Hotel Shinjuku – Opt 2
Room Club Floors Premier Grand King
Meals Room Only
Style International
Day 5 – 7

Make your own way from your hotel to Tokyo / Shinjuku train station

Shinkansen Train from Tokyo to Odawara Hakone (Duration: 30 mins, Standard Class)

Private Transfer from Train Station to Hotel (please note: the chauffeur usually does not speak English).

2 Nights

Hakone

Hakone defines the iconic image of Japan – with the majestic backdrop of Mount Fuji as it rises out of coniferous forest covered mountainsides, lakes and hot springs (onsen). If Tokyo marks the pulsating heart of the country, Hakone is its tranquil heart, offering a peaceful stay. Centered around beautiful Lake Ashino-ko, the traditional gate (torii) of Hakone stands by its serene waters welcoming you into this sacred region. There is much to do for the more energetic traveler as well, as this is the perfect spot for hiking along the many trails marking the surrounding mountains and lakes. As you climb higher, enjoy spectacular views of the beautiful countryside spread out below. Immerse yourself in the quaint and charming world of the traditional Japanese inns and bathhouses dotting Hakone. A dip into a hot spring is the ideal way to complete your day after trekking and breathing in the views!

Hotel options

Shinanoki Ichinoyu Ryokan – Opt 1
Room Modern Japanese room with open-air bath Main Bldg – non-smoking
Meals Half Board (Breakfast & Dinner)
Style Boutique
Matsuzakaya Honten – Opt 2
Room Ashikariso – Matsukaze
Meals Room Only
Style Boutique
Day 7 – 9

Private Transfer from Hotel to Train Station (please note: the chauffeur usually does not speak English).

Train from Odawara Hakone to Nagoya (Duration: 1.5 hrs, Standard Class)

Train from Nagoya to Takayama (Duration: 2 hrs, Standard Class), Send your luggage ahead and travel light within Japan with this luggage courier service. It will take 48 hours for your luggage to arrive at your next destination, so by default your transfer will be booked two days prior. If you choose to do the transfer on your own rather than use a guide or assistant, you can get the hotel staff to help you. Just show them the address of your next destination, which is included in your welcome letter, and they will do the rest. However, you will have to pay for the transfer on the spot and in cash. The total cost will depend on the size and weight of your luggage, as well as the distance to your next destination, but the average is JPY 3000 to 4000 per bag. Please note the payment needs to be made in the morning to ensure your luggage arrives within the specified 48 hours.

Make your own way from the Takayama train station to your hotel

2 Nights

Takayama

Located in the heart of the Japanese Alps, Takayama is an excellent option for those seeking a countryside jaunt. Commonly referred to as Hida-Takayama, you will find several opportunities to appreciate the cultural legacy of Japan. The city’s ‘old town’ is well preserved and is frequented by history aficionados throughout the year. A gateway to the hiking paradise of mountainous Hida, Takayama is home to ancestral old homes, temples and shrines. The quaint streets in the Sanmachi Suji District are charmingly picturesque with the thatched-roof houses, restaurants, sake breweries and cafés. Your trip to Takayama culminates with a visit to Hida Folk Village, a wonderful open-air museum, brimming with old storehouses, logging huts, farmhouses and the former village head’s house.

Hotel options

Chisun Grand Takayama – Opt 1
Room Grand Queen
Meals Room Only
Style International
Hotel Associa Takayama Resort – Opt 2
Room Standard Twin Room
Meals Room Only
Style Resort
Day 9 – 11

Board your bus from Takayama station to Kanazawa Station. Enroute you will visit Shirakawa-gō Village.

Make your own way from the Kanazawa train/bus station to your hotel

2 Nights

Kanazawa

Kanazawa is perhaps best known for its 17th century castle garden Kenroku-en. It is equally well known as the neighbor of the quintessential Japanese feudal fortress, Kanazawa Castle. In addition, Kanazawa is known for its gold leaf, which you can get to know in the form of museums and craftworks as well as decoration of chopsticks and other items. A serious rival of Kyoto, this historical outlier has only recently re-emerged on the intrepid traveler’s map, as Kanazawa is now connected to Tokyo by Japan’s network of high-speed railway lineas (Shinkansen). To get an authentic feel of how feudal Japan may have been like, Kanazawa has preserved various quarters that the land’s samurai and geisha used to inhabit. Lose yourself in the beautiful marketplaces, serene temples and the many museums dotting this exquisite city!

Hotel options

Hotel Intergate Kanazawa – Opt 1
Room Standard Double room
Meals Room Only
Style Boutique
Hotel Nikko Kanazawa – Opt 2
Room Luxe Floor Queen
Meals Breakfast
Style International
Day 11 – 14

Make your own way from your hotel to Kanazawa train/bus station

Train from Kanazawa to Kyoto via Tsuruga (Duration: 2 hrs, Standard Class)

Make your own way from the Kyoto train station to your hotel

3 Nights

Kyoto

Kyoto is arguably the cultural capital of Japan. It was the seat of power and home of the Japanese Emperor from the 6th to the 17th century and was largely spared from destruction during World War II. As a result, the city’s rich heritage remains mostly intact. To walk through Kyoto today is to walk through Japan’s past. It contains 2,000 religious places, including some of the most famous temples in the country. Kiyomizu-dera is a wooden temple set on a mountainside that offers fantastic views, while Ryōan-ji is renowned for its zen rock garden. Add in numerous palaces and gardens and Kyoto is home to an astonishing number of Japan’s National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties. Seventeen of these are also UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Kyoto Imperial Palace and the Kyoto Tower. The latter is the tallest building in the city and a rare modern landmark. To fuel your cultural exploration, you can sample Kyoto’s distinctive culinary traditions such as kaiseki, traditional Japanese multi-course haute cuisine.

Hotel options

The Hotel Higashiyama Kyoto Tokyu – Opt 1
Room Superior King
Meals Room Only
Style Heritage
Hotel Vischio Kyoto by Granvia – Opt 2
Room Moderate Double room A-Type
Meals Room Only
Style International
Day 14 – 16

Make your own way from your hotel to Kyoto train station

Shinkansen Train from Kyoto to Okayama (Duration: 1 hr, Standard Class)

Make your own way from the Okayama train station to your hotel

2 Nights

Okayama

Okayama provides you with beauty and grace during your tour of Japan. As the capital of Okayama Prefecture, this town became a significant regional power during the Edo Period of the 17th and 18th century, when the Japanese were being ruled by the Tokugawa shogunate (a feudal military government). The town boasts a gorgeous castle that sits on the banks of the Asahi River, which has been dubbed ‘Crow Castle’ due to its blackish exterior although the castle also has remnants of its original gold gilded roof. Across from the castle sits one of the town’s most famous attractions and Japan’s premier landscape, the beautiful Korakuen Garden.

Hotel options

Mitsui Garden Okayama – Opt 1
Room Moderate Queen
Meals Breakfast
Style International
Hotel Granvia Okayama – Opt 2
Room Superior Double room
Meals Breakfast
Style International
Day 16 – 18

Make your own way from your hotel to Okayama train station

Shinkansen Train from Okayama to Hiroshima (Duration: 45 mins, Standard Class)

Make your own way from the Hiroshima train station to your hotel

2 Nights

Hiroshima

Hiroshima evokes powerful images and emotions attached to its war-torn past. Yet today, Hiroshima has emerged as a symbol of peace, beauty, and hope, and is a friendly, global city, with modern infrastructure, tree-lined avenues and rivers. A fair share of signature ferroconcrete, neon and bling, typical of modern Japan, vies for your attention as does much of the restored landmarks. Visit the rebuilt Shukkeien Garden, Hiroshima Castle, the iconic Peace Memorial Park and its museum, for a poignant reminder of history. Satiate your yen for good food at the many local restaurants and street stalls serving Hiroshima style delicacies, such as Okonomiyaki.

Hotel options

Hotel Vista Hiroshima – Opt 1
Room Moderate Double room
Meals Breakfast
Style International
Granvia Hiroshima – Opt 2
Room Standard Double room
Meals Breakfast
Style International
Day 18 – 18

Make your own way from your hotel to Hiroshima train station

Train from Hiroshima to Tokyo with JR Rail Pass

Train from Tokyo Train Station to Narita Airport (1 Hr)

Tokyo

Tokyo is modern Japan’s beating heart. Here austere Shinto shrines sit cheek-by-jowl with vibrant shopping centers, and glitzy high-rises tower over beautiful cherry blossom trees. The city offers everything from history and culture to shopping, entertainment and great food. If you are looking for something, chances are you will find it in Tokyo. The city’s food scene is second to none. Tokyo features local and regional Japanese cuisine as well as international cuisines of all flavors. Its chefs have more Michelin stars than any other city but even small, tucked away places are likely to serve delicious food. There are dozens of museums of all stripes. The Tokyo National Museum is spread across multiple buildings and houses the largest collection of national treasures and important cultural items in Japan. The National Museum of Western Art was designed by the famous Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier and is a world heritage site. The city is also home to the Tokyo Skytree, the tallest structure in Japan. Head up to the deck for stunning, panoramic views of the city.

International Departure

Price & Inclusions

Option 1

From $12,190 USD / person

Option 2

From $14,190 USD / person

Prices are in USD and exclude international flights. This trip price is based on low season rates for accommodation and other applicable services, and may change depending on availability, currency fluctuations and number of people traveling together. For high season prices, please contact us with your exact travel dates and preferences.

Price Includes
  • Accommodation and meals, as specified in the itinerary
  • Activities and excursions, as specified in the itinerary
  • Transportation services, as specified in the itinerary
  • Your Trip Coordination Team: Dedicated support throughout your journey, with a primary, personal point of contact. Plus, in case of emergencies while you’re traveling, our trip coordination team are available 24/7 by phone
Not Included
  • Entrance fees and meals, unless mentioned in the itinerary description
  • Tips and personal expenses
  • Visa and tourism fees
  • Travel, health, and cancellation insurance
  • International airfare

Other Itineraries You Might Like

Kyoto, Japan at the Bamboo Forest Asia

Classic Japan

10 Days from $6,690 USD / person

An ideal introduction to the Land of the Rising Sun, explore the best-loved highlights of Japan in just a short period of time. Discover an incredible blend of old-world charm and modern innovation in Tokyo, walk past bustling street laden with the best street and gourmet cuisine that the city has to offer, and explore…

View Vacation
Japan onsen tour

Japan's Onsen Traditions

9 Days from $7,090 USD / person

Get the perfect introduction to Japan’s age-old traditions! Focused on onsen or hot spring bathing rituals, this private tour takes you to the mountain town of Kinosaki, set between Kyoto and Osaka, which is famed for its onsen bathhouses, ryokans (inn) and gorgeous scenery. While staying in a typical ryokan, you can also sample authentic…

View Vacation
Enchanting Travels Japan Tours Colorful Autumn Season and Mountain Fuji with morning fog and red leaves at lake Kawaguchiko is one of the best places in Japan

Japan for Beginners: Tokyo, Kyoto and Mount Fuji

9 Days from $7,290 USD / person

Experience the absolute highlights of Japan at your own pace on this classic tour of Tokyo, Kyoto, and Mount Fuji. Beginning in the dazzling capital city, discover the Sensoji Temple and the Meiji Shrine with an experienced local guide by your side. Leave the bustle of the big city behind and enjoy a climb up…

View Vacation

Sorry, your search found no results.