10-Day Rail Adventure through Japan: Culture, Food & Nature

Day 1: Tokyo Exploration

Tokyo, Japan on January 22, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Tsukiji Outer Market

Start your culinary journey at the vibrant Tsukiji Outer Market, where you can try fresh sushi sandwiched between crispy seaweed.
Take the subway or a 20-minute walk from your accommodation.
JPY1500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Senso-ji Temple Visit

Explore the iconic Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, Tokyo's oldest temple, surrounded by traditional shopping streets.
Take the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line to Asakusa Station, 30 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Local Ramen Shop

Savor a steaming bowl of delicious ramen at a local shop nearby; a true Tokyo experience.
Walk back to the main streets, 10 minutes.
JPY1000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Stroll through Ueno Park

Wander through Ueno Park to enjoy the nature and visit nearby museums, including the Tokyo National Museum.
Take the train from Asakusa to Ueno, 10 minutes.
JPY620, 2 hours

4:00PM

Akihabara Shopping

Explore the bustling district of Akihabara, famous for electronics and otaku culture.
Take the Yamanote Line from Ueno to Akihabara, 5 minutes.
Free (shopping costs vary), 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu

Finish your first day with a sumptuous meal of Gyukatsu, breaded and fried beef cutlets served with flavorful dipping sauces.
Walk from Akihabara to the restaurant, 15 minutes.
JPY2000, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Modern Tokyo & Culture

Tokyo, Japan on January 23, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at a Local Bakery

Enjoy a delicious Japanese-style breakfast of bread, eggs, and coffee at a local bakery in Shibuya.
Take the train to Shibuya, 20 minutes.
JPY1200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Meiji Shrine

Visit the serene Meiji Shrine nestled in a forested area, providing a peaceful escape from the city's hustle.
Walk from the bakery to the shrine, 15 minutes.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Harajuku Shopping

Dive into the colorful streets of Harajuku, famous for its quirky fashion shops and the unique Takeshita Street.
Walk from Meiji Shrine to Harajuku, 10 minutes.
Free (shopping costs vary), 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Kawaii Monster Cafe

Experience an extravagant meal at the vibrant Kawaii Monster Cafe, a feast for the senses.
Walk from Harajuku to the cafe, 5 minutes.
JPY2500, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Tokyo Tower

Get panoramic views of the city from the observation deck of the iconic Tokyo Tower.
Take the train from Harajuku to Akabanebashi Station, 30 minutes.
JPY1200, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner in Shinjuku

Head to Shinjuku for dinner and try some local izakaya-style dishes at Omoide Yokocho.
Take the subway from Tokyo Tower to Shinjuku, 20 minutes.
JPY2000, 2 hours
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Day 3: Cultural Immersion in Nikko

Nikko, Japan on January 24, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a local Japanese breakfast at your hotel before heading out for a day trip.
Walk to the train station for your morning train.
Included, 1 hour

8:00AM

Travel to Nikko

Board the JR line from Tokyo to Nikko; enjoy scenic views during the journey.
About a 2-hour train ride.
JPY3200, 2 hours

10:00AM

Visit Toshogu Shrine

Explore the lavishly decorated Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site honoring Tokugawa Ieyasu.
Take a local bus from the station to the shrine, 30 minutes.
JPY1300, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch near Toshogu Shrine

Taste yuba (tofu skin) dishes at a local restaurant nearby, a Nikko specialty.
Walk to a nearby restaurant, 10 minutes.
JPY1500, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Lake Chuzenji

Travel to Lake Chuzenji for beautiful scenery and a chance for a peaceful lakeside walk.
Take a bus from the shrine, 30 minutes.
JPY700, 2 hours

4:30PM

Return to Nikko

Return to Nikko town for some leisure time and exploration.
Take the bus back to town, 30 minutes.
JPY700, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Local Izakaya

Enjoy dinner at a local izakaya in Nikko and try seasonal dishes.
Walk to a local izakaya in town, 10 minutes.
JPY2000, 2 hours

8:30PM

Travel back to Tokyo

Head back to Tokyo after a fulfilling day.
Take the JR line back for about 2 hours.
JPY3200, 2 hours
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Day 4: Nature & Hot Springs in Hakone

Hakone, Japan on January 25, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your Tokyo hotel before heading to Hakone.
Prepare for your travel day, walking to the station.
Included, 1 hour

8:00AM

Travel to Hakone

Board the Romancecar train from Shinjuku to Hakone, offering stunning views.
About a 2-hour train ride.
JPY4000, 2 hours

10:00AM

Explore Hakone Open Air Museum

Discover unique sculptures and art installations in a stunning outdoor setting.
Take a local bus from Hakone Yumoto Station, 30 minutes.
JPY1600, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at a Café

Grab a light lunch at the museum’s café with picturesque views of the mountains.
Walk to the café inside the museum.
JPY1500, 1 hour

2:00PM

Enjoy Onsen Experience

Unwind in one of Hakone's famous hot springs for relaxation after the morning adventure.
Take a bus from the museum to an onsen, 20 minutes.
JPY2500, 2 hours

4:30PM

Lake Ashi Boat Cruise

Take a sightseeing cruise on Lake Ashi, with views of Mt Fuji in the background.
Walk to the boat terminal, 10 minutes.
JPY1000, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Local Sushi Restaurant

Indulge in delicious local sushi at a traditional restaurant near the lake.
Walk approximately 15 minutes along the shoreline.
JPY3000, 2 hours

8:30PM

Travel to Kyoto

Take the Shinkansen from Odawara to Kyoto to continue your journey.
Travel duration approximately 3 hours.
JPY6000, 3 hours
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Day 5: Kyoto: Temples & Culture

Kyoto, Japan on January 26, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel in Kyoto before starting your day.
Plan your day ahead with a map of Kyoto.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Visit the stunning Kinkaku-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its golden architecture.
Take a local bus from the hotel, 30 minutes.
JPY400, 2 hours

11:30AM

Ryoan-ji Zen Garden

Discover the tranquility of the Ryoan-ji Rock Garden, a masterpiece of Zen landscaping.
Walk approximately 20 minutes from Kinkaku-ji.
JPY500, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Explore the flavors of Kyoto at Nishiki Market, sampling various food stalls.
Take a local bus or taxi, 30 minutes.
JPY1500, 2 hours

3:00PM

Fushimi Inari Shrine

Walk through the iconic Torii gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine, a must-see landmark of Kyoto.
Take the train from Nishiki Market, 15 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Kyo Kaiseki

Immerse yourself in Japan's traditional multi-course kaiseki dining, a true culinary journey.
Travel to the restaurant by taxi, approximately 15 minutes.
JPY6000, 2 hours
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Day 6: Historical Kyoto & Nature

Kyoto, Japan on January 27, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start the day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel in Kyoto.
Fuel up for a day filled with exploration.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Wander through the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove for a serene experience away from the city.
Take the train to Arashiyama, approximately 30 minutes.
Free, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Tenryu-ji Temple

Visit Tenryu-ji Temple with its stunning gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Walk from Bamboo Grove, 15 minutes.
JPY500, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Local Café

Have a light lunch at a local café overlooking the river.
Walk from Tenryu-ji, 10 minutes.
JPY1200, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Explore Kiyomizu-dera Temple, renowned for its wooden stage that offers breathtaking views of the city.
Travel by bus from downtown, approximately 30 minutes.
JPY400, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner in Gion

Conclude the day with a meal in Gion, famous for traditional teahouses and its potential for geisha sightings.
Walk from Kiyomizu-dera, around 20 minutes.
JPY3000, 2 hours
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Day 7: Day Trip to Nara

Nara, Japan on January 28, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before taking the train to Nara.
Set out early to maximize your time in Nara.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Nara

Take the train from Kyoto to Nara, where you'll see free-roaming deer in Nara Park.
About a 45-minute train ride.
JPY720, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Todai-ji Temple

Explore the magnificent Todai-ji Temple, housing the Great Buddha statue.
Walk to Todai-ji from the station, about 30 minutes.
JPY600, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

Lunch on local specialties before continuing your exploration.
Walk to a nearby restaurant, about 10 minutes.
JPY1500, 1 hour

1:30PM

Nara Park

Stroll through Nara Park, enjoying the company of friendly deer as you soak in the atmosphere.
Walk around the park from the restaurant, about 5 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Kasuga-taisha Shrine

Discover the beautiful Kasuga-taisha Shrine with its stone lanterns and serene surroundings.
Take a walk through the park, 20 minutes.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Travel back to Kyoto

Take the train back to Kyoto after a fulfilling day.
Return to the station, 30 minutes.
JPY720, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Dine in Pontocho Alley, known for its traditional dining establishments and authentic Kyoto cuisine.
Take a scenic walk from the station, 15 minutes.
JPY3000, 2 hours
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Day 8: Hiroshima & Peace

Hiroshima, Japan on January 29, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel in Kyoto before traveling to Hiroshima.
Plan for a meaningful day ahead.
Included, 1 hour

8:00AM

Travel to Hiroshima

Take the Shinkansen from Kyoto to Hiroshima; prepare for a historic day.
Travel time is approximately 2 hours.
JPY6000, 2 hours

10:00AM

Visit Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

Pay your respects at this solemn site dedicated to the victims of the atomic bombing.
Walk from the station, 15 minutes.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch of Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki

Enjoy a hearty lunch of Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, a savory pancake, at a local eatery.
Nearby cafe, 10 minutes walk.
JPY1200, 1 hour

1:30PM

Hiroshima Castle

Explore Hiroshima Castle, a symbol of resilience and recovery.
Walk to the castle, about 15 minutes.
JPY370, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Shukkeien Garden

Stroll through the tranquil Shukkeien Garden, filled with scenic ponds and traditional landscapes.
Take a taxi or bus, 10 minutes.
JPY260, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Local Izakaya

Experience local cuisine at a nearby izakaya, tasting fresh seafood and regional dishes.
Walk back to the main area, 15 minutes.
JPY3000, 2 hours
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Day 9: Day Trip to Miyajima

Miyajima, Japan on January 30, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with breakfast at your Hiroshima hotel before heading to Miyajima.
Get ready for an exciting day.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Miyajima

Take a train and ferry to Miyajima Island, famous for its floating torii gate.
About an hour's journey including ferry.
JPY2000, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Itsukushima Shrine

Explore the picturesque Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Short walk from the ferry terminal, 10 minutes.
JPY300, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch with Local Specialties

Enjoy lunch with local specialties like grilled oysters and momiji manju (maple leaf cakes).
Nearby food stalls, 5 minutes walk.
JPY1500, 1 hour

1:30PM

Hike Mount Misen

Take a hike to the summit of Mount Misen for panoramic views of the surrounding sea and islands.
A guided hike takes approximately 2 hours each way.
Free (possible fees for cable car), 4 hours

6:00PM

Dinner on Miyajima Island

After descending, enjoy dinner on the island and taste more seafood delicacies.
Dine at a local restaurant, 20 minutes walk.
JPY3000, 2 hours

8:30PM

Return to Hiroshima

Take the ferry back to Hiroshima after a fulfilling day.
Return ferry journey, about 40 minutes.
JPY2000, 1 hour
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Day 10: Osaka Farewell

Osaka, Japan on January 31, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Savor your last breakfast in Hiroshima at the hotel before heading to Osaka.
Prepare for your final adventure.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Osaka

Take the Shinkansen from Hiroshima to Osaka and get ready for a vibrant city experience.
Approximately 1.5 hours journey.
JPY5000, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Exploring Osaka Castle

Visit the magnificent Osaka Castle, surrounded by beautiful gardens and historic architecture.
Take a subway or bus from the station, 30 minutes.
JPY600, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Dotonbori District

Delight in Osaka’s famous street foods at Dotonbori, including takoyaki and okonomiyaki.
Walk from the castle, approximately 30 minutes.
JPY1500, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Kuromon Ichiba Market

Shop for fresh produce and snacks at this bustling market, perfect for last-minute treats.
Travel by subway from Dotonbori, 10 minutes.
Free (shopping costs vary), 2 hours

4:30PM

Namba Yasaka Shrine

Finish your trip by visiting Namba Yasaka Shrine, known for its unique lion-head stage.
Walk from Kuromon market, 15 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Local Izakaya

Conclude your Japanese adventure with a farewell dinner, enjoying more local dishes at a cozy izakaya.
Walk from the shrine, 10 minutes.
JPY3000, 2 hours
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