14-Day Adventure Rail Trip from Nagoya to Nagano: Nature & Scenic Views

Day 1: Explore Nagoya

Nagoya, Japan on December 22, 2024

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Komeda's Coffee

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Komeda's Coffee, famous for its fluffy toast and rich coffee.
Walk to the nearby train station.
JPY 1,000, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Nagoya Castle

Take a leisurely stroll to Nagoya Castle, an iconic landmark showcasing Japan's feudal history.
Take the subway to Shiyakusho Station, a 10-minute ride.
JPY 500, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Yabaton

Savor a local specialty, Nagoya's miso katsu, at Yabaton.
Short walk from the castle to the restaurant.
JPY 1,500, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Explore Osu Shopping District

Dive into local culture by exploring the vibrant Osu Shopping District, filled with shops and street food.
Take the subway to Osu Kannon Station.
Free, 2 hours

4:30 PM

Visit the Toyota Commemorative Museum

Learn about automotive history at the Toyota Commemorative Museum.
Take a short tram ride from Osu.
JPY 1,000, 1.5 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Maruya Honten

Enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner at Maruya Honten, serving seasonal Japanese cuisine.
Take a taxi to the restaurant.
JPY 5,000, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Travel to Takayama

Takayama, Japan on December 23, 2024

7:00 AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a light breakfast at your hotel before your journey.
Walk to Nagoya Station.
JPY 1,500, 1 hour

8:00 AM

Take Hida Limited Express to Takayama

Board the scenic Hida Limited Express train for breathtaking views as you head to Takayama.
Locate platform at Nagoya Station.
JPY 5,000, 2.5 hours

10:30 AM

Arrival in Takayama

Check into your accommodation and freshen up after the ride.
Short walk to your hotel from the station.
Free, 1 hour

11:30 AM

Explore Takayama Old Town

Stroll through Takayama's beautifully preserved Edo-period streets.
Walk around the old town area.
Free, 2 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at Ajikura Tengoku

Enjoy locally-sourced Hida beef at Ajikura Tengoku.
Walk back to the restaurant in the Old Town.
JPY 3,000, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Visit Hida Folk Village

Learn about traditional rural life in the region at the Hida Folk Village.
Take a bus from Takayama Station.
JPY 700, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at Saito Shokudo

Indulge in traditional Japanese dishes at this cozy eatery near the village.
Bus back to the station, short walk to restaurant.
JPY 1,800, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Day Trip to Shirakawa-go

Shirakawa-go, Japan on December 24, 2024

7:00 AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast before the day’s adventure.
Walk to the dining area.
Included, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Travel to Shirakawa-go

Head out early to visit the iconic Shirakawa-go village, known for its gassho-zukuri farmhouses.
Take the bus from Takayama Station.
JPY 2,500, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Explore Shirakawa-go

Wander through this UNESCO World Heritage site, marveling at traditional architecture.
Walk around the village.
Free, 2.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Irori Restaurant

Savor local cuisines such as hida beef and buckwheat soba at Irori.
Located within the village.
JPY 2,800, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Visit Shirakawa-go Gassho-style Houses

Explore the inner parts of the historical farmhouses for a glimpse of traditional life.
Self-guided walking tour.
JPY 500, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Return to Takayama

Catch a bus back to Takayama for the evening.
Board the bus at the designated stop.
JPY 2,500, 1 hour

4:30 PM

Free time in Takayama

Use your free time to relax or explore more shops in Takayama.
Walk around or shop.
Free, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Sakurazaka

Dine at Sakurazaka, a popular spot for traditional kaiseki meals.
Short walk from your hotel.
JPY 4,500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Kanazawa Exploration

Kanazawa, Japan on December 25, 2024

8:00 AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a warm breakfast for the next leg of your journey.
In-house dining area.
Included, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Travel to Kanazawa

Take a train to Kanazawa, known for its rich history and culture.
Walk to Takayama Station for train.
JPY 3,500, 2.5 hours

11:30 AM

Visit Kenroku-en Garden

Begin with a visit to Kenroku-en, one of Japan's top three gardens.
Take a bus from Kanazawa Station.
JPY 310, 1.5 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Mm Seafood

Relish fresh seafood at Mm Seafood near Kenroku-en.
Walk to nearby restaurant.
JPY 2,500, 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Visit Kanazawa Castle

Explore the majestic Kanazawa Castle, rich in Japanese history.
Walk to the castle from the restaurant.
JPY 500, 1.5 hours

4:30 PM

Explore Higashi Chaya District

Wander through the historic geisha district full of tea houses.
Short walk from the castle.
Free, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Fuwari

Enjoy an exquisite multi-course dinner at Fuwari, showcasing local Kanazawa style cuisine.
Walk to the restaurant in Higashi Chaya.
JPY 6,000, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Travel to Toyama

Toyama, Japan on December 26, 2024

8:00 AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Get energized for your travel day with a filling breakfast.
Dining area of the hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Head to Toyama

Depart for Toyama, located along the coast and renowned for its seafood.
Catch a local train departing from Kanazawa Station.
JPY 2,300, 1.5 hours

10:30 AM

Arrival in Toyama

Check-in at your accommodation upon arrival in Toyama.
Walk to your hotel close to the station.
Free, 1 hour

11:30 AM

Visit Toyama Glass Art Museum

Explore unique glass art exhibits and installations.
Short walk from your hotel.
JPY 600, 2 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at Kanazawa Shokudo

Enjoy a meal featuring local seafood dishes at Kanazawa Shokudo.
Walk to the restaurant in Toyama.
JPY 2,000, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Visit Matsukawa River

Take a scenic walk along Matsukawa River and its beautiful embankments.
Short walk from the restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at Takara Sushi

Taste the freshest sushi sourced from local fishermen at Takara Sushi.
Short walk from river access.
JPY 4,000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Matsumoto and its Attractions

Matsumoto, Japan on December 27, 2024

7:30 AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast to prepare for the day ahead.
Dining area at the hotel.
Included, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Travel to Matsumoto

Take a scenic train ride to Matsumoto, known for its beautiful castle.
Board the train at Toyama Station.
JPY 2,500, 1.5 hours

10:00 AM

Visit Matsumoto Castle

Explore the iconic Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan's most beautiful.
Walk to the castle from the station.
JPY 1,000, 1.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Hizakake

Enjoy a meal featuring local soba noodles at the cozy Hizakake.
Short walk from the castle.
JPY 2,000, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Explore Nakamachi Street

Wander the quaint Nakamachi Street with its traditional wooden buildings and shops.
Walk from restaurant through Nakamachi.
Free, 2 hours

3:30 PM

Visit Matsumoto City Museum of Art

Immerse yourself in the local art scene at this vibrant museum.
Short walk from Nakamachi.
JPY 600, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at Shifuku

Delight in grill-style Japanese dishes accompanied by local sake.
Short walk from the museum.
JPY 4,000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Adventure in Kamikochi

Kamikochi, Japan on December 28, 2024

7:00 AM

Breakfast at your hotel

A hearty meal will prepare you for your hiking adventure.
Dining area of the hotel.
Included, 1 hour

8:00 AM

Travel to Kamikochi

Make your way to Kamikochi, a breathtaking mountain resort area.
Take a bus from Matsumoto Station.
JPY 2,500, 2.5 hours

10:30 AM

Hiking in Kamikochi

Embark on hiking trails filled with stunning scenery, rivers, and mountains.
Follow trails from the bus drop-off.
Free, 4 hours

3:00 PM

Lunch at Kappa Bridge

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy surrounded by nature.
Lunch at Kappa Bridge.
JPY 1,500 (for packed food), 1 hour

4:00 PM

Continue hiking

Make your way to the scenic Taisho Pond for more stunning views.
Follow marked trails.
Free, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Kamikochi Imperial Hotel

Dine at this lovely hotel offering a fine selection of Japanese cuisine.
Consult local info for access.
JPY 5,500, 2 hours

8:30 PM

Stay overnight in Kamikochi

Unwind and rest in a picturesque area surrounded by mountains.
Check in at your hotel.
JPY 10,000, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Nature and Relaxation in Norikura

Norikura, Japan on December 29, 2024

7:00 AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Indulge in breakfast before exploring Norikura.
Dining area of the hotel.
Included, 1 hour

8:00 AM

Travel to Norikura

Head to Norikura, famous for its stunning landscapes.
Take a bus from Kamikochi.
JPY 600, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Explore Norikura National Park

Experience breathtaking views and tranquility in Norikura's national park.
Follow park trails.
Free, 4 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Norikura Kogen

Enjoy a local meal at a restaurant in the highland area.
Short walk from hiking trails.
JPY 2,500, 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Visit Norikura’s Waterfalls

Hike to some stunning waterfalls within the park.
Follow signs to the waterfalls.
Free, 2 hours

4:30 PM

Return to Kamikochi

Travel back to Kamikochi for your overnight stay.
Take the bus back.
JPY 600, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Dinner at Kamikochi Imperial Hotel

Revisit the hotel for another delightful dinner.
Short walk from your accommodation.
JPY 5,500, 2 hours

8:30 PM

Stay overnight in Kamikochi

Relax and reflect on another amazing day.
Return to your hotel.
JPY 10,000, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Exploration of Nagano

Nagano, Japan on December 30, 2024

7:30 AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a refreshing breakfast before heading to Nagano.
Dining area of the hotel.
Included, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Travel to Nagano

Head out for Nagano, an area renowned for its beautiful mountains.
Take the bus to Kamikochi Station, then train to Nagano.
JPY 1,500, 2 hours

10:30 AM

Visit Zenko-ji Temple

Explore the famous Zenko-ji Temple, a cultural and religious landmark.
Short walk from Nagano Station.
Free, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Unidon

Try delicious eel dishes at the popular Unidon restaurant.
Short walk to restaurant.
JPY 2,200, 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Visit the Nagano Prefectural Art Museum

Discover local art and culture at the art museum.
Bus or walk to the museum.
JPY 500, 1.5 hours

4:30 PM

Explore the city

Stroll around the city and visit shops and cafés.
Walk around the downtown area.
Free, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Matsuya

Savor traditional Japanese teppanyaki at Matsuya to end your day on a high note.
Short walk to restaurant.
JPY 4,000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Cultural Immersion in Obuse

Obuse, Japan on December 31, 2024

7:00 AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Have breakfast before your day trip to Obuse.
Dining area of the hotel.
Included, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Travel to Obuse

Take a train to Obuse, known for its chestnuts and Hokusai art.
Train from Nagano Station.
JPY 700, 30 minutes

9:30 AM

Visit Hokusai Museum

Explore the Hokusai Museum, dedicated to the famous artist Katsushika Hokusai.
Short walk from the train station.
JPY 800, 1.5 hours

11:30 AM

Taste local chestnuts

Sample delicious chestnut treats from local vendors.
Walk around the town center.
JPY 1,000, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at Obuse Soba

Relish handmade soba noodles at Obuse Soba restaurant.
Short walk from the town center.
JPY 2,000, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Visit Ganshoin Temple

Witness the stunning architecture at Ganshoin Temple.
Walk from the restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Explore Obuse Town

Wander the picturesque streets of Obuse, known for its art galleries.
Free exploration.
Free, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Local Izakaya

Enjoy a fun dining experience at a local izakaya, tasting various small dishes.
Short walk to izakaya.
JPY 3,500, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 11: Relaxing in Nozawa Onsen

Nozawa Onsen, Japan on January 1, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Start the new year with a good breakfast.
Dining area of the hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Travel to Nozawa Onsen

Head to Nozawa Onsen, a popular hot spring resort.
Train from Nagano to Nozawa Onsen.
JPY 1,000, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Soak in the onsen

Relax in one of the outdoor onsen while enjoying scenic views of the snow.
Walk to nearby onsen.
JPY 800, 1.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Sobadokoro Kamimura

Dig into some freshly made soba noodles at this renowned eatery.
Short walk from the onsen.
JPY 1,500, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Explore the hot springs

Wander through town and discover the various public and private onsens.
Self-guided exploration.
Free, 2.5 hours

4:00 PM

Return to the onsen

Enjoy another soak in the hot springs before dinner.
Walk back to your chosen onsen.
Included, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Dinner at Kamimura

Savor traditional cuisine while enjoying the hot spring ambiance.
Short walk to the restaurant.
JPY 5,000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 12: Cultural Discovery in Komoro

Komoro, Japan on January 2, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Fuel up before the journey to Komoro.
In-house dining area.
Included, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Travel to Komoro

Depart for Komoro, celebrated for its historic sites.
Train from Nozawa Onsen to Komoro.
JPY 1,000, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Visit Komoro Castle

Explore the remnants of Komoro Castle, a site of historical significance.
Short walk from the station.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Local Restaurant

Enjoy delicious local cuisine at a restaurant in Komoro.
Walk to the restaurant from the castle.
JPY 1,800, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Explore the Komoro Tokiwa Park

Relax among nature in a beautiful park with scenic views.
Short walk from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

3:30 PM

Visit the Komoro Silk Factory

Learn about the silk production that Komoro is famous for.
Outdoor walking to the factory.
JPY 500, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Dinner at Local Izakaya

Taste a variety of local dishes in a casual dining atmosphere.
Short walk from the silk factory.
JPY 3,500, 2 hours

7:00 PM

Return to Nagoya

Take the train back to Nagoya for your final night.
Train from Komoro to Nagoya.
JPY 2,500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 13: Final Day in Nagoya

Nagoya, Japan on January 3, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a relaxing breakfast as you prepare for your day in Nagoya.
In-house dining.
Included, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Nagoya City Science Museum

Discover interactive exhibitions and the world’s largest planetarium.
Short taxi or tram ride.
JPY 1,000, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Gatten Sushi

Savor fresh sushi at Gatten, famous for its conveyor belt concept.
Short walk from the museum.
JPY 2,500, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Explore Osu Kannon Temple

Wander through Osu Kannon Temple and its vibrant surroundings.
Short tram ride to Osu Kannon.
Free, 2 hours

4:00 PM

Visit Tokugawa Art Museum

Delve into Japan's samurai culture at the Tokugawa Art Museum.
Tram or taxi to the museum.
JPY 1,000, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Farewell Dinner at Nanzan

Close the adventure with a sumptuous farewell dinner at Nanzan.
Short walk from your hotel.
JPY 5,000, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 14: Departure from Nagoya

Nagoya, Japan on January 4, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Have your final breakfast in Japan and reminisce about your journey.
In-house dining.
Included, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Check-out and departure

Check-out and prepare for your onward journey, filled with unforgettable memories.
Pack up and check-out.
Free, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability