3-Day Romantic Road Journey Through Japan: From Nikko to Ueda

Day 1: Nikko and Nature

Nikko, Japan on October 1, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Hippari Dako

Start your journey with a hearty Japanese-style breakfast at Hippari Dako, known for its authentic local flavours and friendly atmosphere. Open from 8am.
JPY800, 1h0m

9:45am

Visit Nikko Toshogu Shrine

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its elaborate decorations and peaceful forest setting. Open 8am to 5pm.
JPY1300, 2h0m

12:00pm

Drive to Lake Chuzenji

Take a scenic 40-minute drive to Lake Chuzenji, enjoying the autumn colours along the way.
Free, 0h40m

12:45pm

Lunch at Lake Chuzenji Onsen Village

Enjoy a lakeside meal with local trout dishes at a restaurant like 'Koshin-tei' near the shore. Open 11am to 3pm.
JPY1500, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Fukiware Falls

Drive about 1 hour to see Fukiware Falls, often called the 'Niagara of the east' for its impressive cascade and natural beauty. Open all day.
Free, 1h0m

3:15pm

Relax at Oigami Onsen

Conclude the day by soaking in the tranquil hot springs of Oigami Onsen, famed for its clear waters and mountain views.
JPY700, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Onsen Ryokan

Enjoy traditional kaiseki dinner at your ryokan in Oigami Onsen, a romantic experience with seasonal ingredients.
JPY8000, 1h30m
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Day 2: Onsen and Mountains

Gunma and Nagano Prefectures, Japan on October 2, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Ryokan

Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast served at your accommodation, offering fresh local and seasonal ingredients.
Included, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Shima Onsen

Travel approximately 30 minutes to reach Shima Onsen, known for its historic hot spring baths surrounded by nature.
Free, 0h30m

9:15am

Soak in Shima Onsen Public Baths

Experience the soothing waters of Shima Onsen at one of the public baths open from 7am to 10pm, noted for health benefits.
JPY600, 1h0m

10:30am

Drive to Katsu Onsen

A scenic 40-minute drive to Katsu Onsen, another charming hot spring destination with inviting outdoor baths.
Free, 0h40m

11:15am

Explore Katsu Onsen Village

Wander the quaint village, take photos and perhaps dip into a spa bath before lunch.
Free, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Katsu Onsen Soba Restaurant

Savour freshly made soba noodles at a renowned local eatery open from 11:30am to 2pm.
JPY1200, 1h0m

1:45pm

Drive towards Mount Asama

Drive approximately 1 hour heading west to Mount Asama, an active volcano with hiking opportunities and striking views.
Free, 1h0m

3:00pm

Visit Mount Asama Scenic Spot

Stop by observation points and visitor centres to learn about the volcano and enjoy panoramic scenery.
Free, 1h0m

4:15pm

Continue to Karuizawa

Drive about 40 minutes to reach Karuizawa, a stylish mountain resort town famous for shopping and nature.
Free, 0h40m

5:00pm

Visit Shinraku Temple

Explore Shinraku Temple in Karuizawa, open until 6pm, a calming spot with traditional Japanese temple architecture.
Free, 45m

6:00pm

Dinner at Illinois Karuizawa

Dine at this popular restaurant known for its Western-Japanese fusion cuisine in a cozy atmosphere. Open until 9pm.
JPY3500, 1h30m
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Day 3: Historic Towns and Final Destination

Nagano Prefecture, Japan on October 3, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel in Karuizawa

Enjoy a buffet breakfast featuring local and western options to fuel your last day of touring.
Included, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Komoro City

Travel about 1 hour to Komoro City, known for its Edo-period castle ruins and cultural heritage.
Free, 1h0m

9:45am

Visit Komoro Castle Ruins and Kaikoen Park

Explore the historic ruins and enjoy the scenic park famous for its autumn foliage, open during daylight hours.
Free, 1h30m

11:30am

Drive to Unno Juku

Short 30-minute drive to Unno Juku, a preserved post town on the Nakasendo Trail offering a glimpse into Edo period life.
Free, 0h30m

12:15pm

Lunch at Unno Juku

Experience traditional Japanese dishes in a historic setting; many places open 11am to 3pm.
JPY1500, 1h0m

1:30pm

Walk through Unno Juku

Stroll the old street lined with wooden merchant houses and shops selling local crafts and snacks.
Free, 1h0m

2:45pm

Drive to Ueda City

Final 40-minute drive to Ueda City, your journey’s end, known for its historic castle and samurai heritage.
Free, 0h40m

3:30pm

Visit Ueda Castle

Tour the grounds and museum of Ueda Castle, open until 5pm, to wrap up your Romantic Road adventure.
JPY300, 1h0m

5:00pm

Dinner at Torisen Ueda

Enjoy a celebratory dinner of grilled skewered chicken and local sake at this well-known restaurant. Open until 10pm.
JPY4000, 1h30m
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