Japan Fall Foliage Grand Loop: Tokyo, Sapporo, Mt. Fuji, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Hiroshima & Nagasaki (16 Nov–9 Dec 2025) — JMC-aware Plan & INR Cost Estimates
Gentle city walk in Meiji Shrine forest or Shinjuku Gyoen if open to enjoy urban pockets of foliage (Shinjuku Gyoen usual hours 9:00–16:30, closed Mondays).
Take JR to Otsuki, then Fujikyu Railway to Kawaguchiko (Fujikyu portion not covered by JR Pass). This is a classic spot for Fuji views and lakeside foliage.
INR825 (Fujikyu fee) + INR440 (JR to Otsuki), 2h30m.
Buy/activate your 21‑day JR Pass today (recommended activation today if you bought one) to cover long-distance rail from Kyoto westward; have a light breakfast and pack.
Hillside temple with a wooden terrace and sweeping valley views—excellent for fall colors; temple hours often early morning to evening (e.g., 6:00–18:00).
Iconic thousand torii gates; shrine is open 24/7 so you can find quieter times later in the afternoon for photos and to enjoy any late leaves in the valley.
Visit the museum and the Atomic Bomb Dome—important historical context and reflective gardens; museum typically open 8:30–18:00 (check seasonal hours) and allow 2–3 hours.
Boat tour to the abandoned mining island (subject to weather and seasonal operation); book ahead—tours typically run mid-morning with durations ~2–3 hours.
If weather limited your first visit or you prefer mountain lakes and quiet walks for late-season views, return via train/bus (2–2.5h each way); Fujikyu fees apply.
Board your return flight home; end of your Japan fall foliage tour covering Hokkaido to Kyushu timed with JMC general patterns (note: Sapporo foliage normally peaks earlier, but you’ll see northern autumn character and possible early snow; Kansai and Chugoku usually peak mid-late Nov to early Dec).