Grab a light lunch at Haneda's international terminal (ramen, sushi or curry) to refresh after the flight before travelling into the city. Convenient and saves time.
Walk the peaceful Meiji Shrine grounds (open early–evening) then wander Takeshita Street/Omotesandō for boutique shops and winter window displays — a gentle introduction to Tokyo.
Enjoy dinner at an izakaya or sushi restaurant — try grilled skewers in Omoide Yokocho (Shinjuku) or conveyor sushi in Shibuya for variety and lively evening atmosphere.
Depart your hotel early to reach Tokyo Station and catch the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Kanazawa; early departure maximises time for the Kanazawa to Shirakawago leg.
Visit one of Japan’s most famous gardens — Kenrokuen — and view the castle grounds. In winter, the garden can be atmospheric with snow-covered pines; garden usually open in winter mornings (typical hours ~7:00am–5:00pm).
Board the Nohi/Kaetsuno bus to Shirakawago village (approx 1h15–1h30). Buses have limited seats — reserve in advance where possible to ensure your same‑day return.
Walk through the UNESCO-listed gassho‑zukuri village, enter a historic farmhouse museum (e.g. Wada House) and enjoy photos of snow‑capped thatch roofs. Village is open all day but individual museums often run ~8:30am–5:00pm.
Take the Shogawa Yuran sightseeing boat for a scenic river cruise on the Shō River — a serene way to see the valley around Shirakawago. Note: operation times are seasonal (commonly around 9:00am–4:00pm in winter); confirm schedules in advance.
Catch the late afternoon bus back to Kanazawa. Buses fill quickly in winter peak times, so keep to the reserved schedule or earlier departures if available.
Drop bags at your Tokyo hotel then head to Asakusa for a relaxed lunch (tempura or soba) near Senso‑ji; Asakusa offers winter charm with lantern-lit streets.
Explore the historic temple and souvenir stalls on Nakamise-dori; temple grounds are open from early morning to evening (typical hours ~6:00am–5:00pm).
Head to Odaiba for waterfront views and, if you want relaxation, visit Oedo Onsen Monogatari for a hot-spring experience (usually open 11:00am–11:00pm, final admission earlier). Note many onsen require guests to be tattoo-free or use cover options.
Leave your Tokyo hotel early to get to Tokyo Station and catch the Hokuriku/Asama Shinkansen bound for Karuizawa; early trains give you a full day at the outlet.
Spend the day at the large Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza outlet with domestic and international brands; many shops open around 10:00am (winter hours can vary — some stores open earlier or later).
Choose from casual restaurants (ramen, curry, Italian) inside the outlet — a good chance to try local specialties or a quick international meal to maximise shopping time.
Have an early dinner near Tokyo Station or at your hotel; aim to depart for Haneda with sufficient time for international check-in (target airport arrival ~2 hours before departure).
Take the Airport Limousine bus, Keikyu Line + transfer, or private taxi to Haneda. For a 12:05am flight on 5 Feb, plan to be at Haneda by ~10:00pm–10:30pm for check-in and security (international flights recommend 2–3 hours prior).
Complete check-in, immigration and security. Haneda international terminals remain open for late-night departures; allow time for duty-free and final snacks.