13-Day Scenic Japan Road Trip: Nagoya to Osaka via Kanazawa, Toyama, Pearl Island, and Kobe with Autumn Foliage

Day 1: Nagoya City Introduction

Nagoya, Japan on October 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Komeda's Coffee

Enjoy a classic Nagoya-style breakfast with freshly brewed coffee and their famous 'Shiro-Noir' pastry in a relaxed café atmosphere.
JPY800, 1h0m

9:30am

Nagoya Castle Visit

Explore this iconic castle with its rich history, beautiful gardens, and museum showcasing samurai artifacts, perfect for understanding the city’s heritage.
JPY500, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Hitsumabushi Bincho

Savor Nagoya’s famous grilled eel dish, Hitsumabushi, served in multiple ways for a unique dining experience.
JPY2500, 1h30m

2:00pm

Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology

Learn about the fascinating development of Toyota from textiles to automotive, with interactive exhibits showcasing Japanese innovation.
JPY500, 2h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Yabaton Misuji

Indulge in Nagoya’s famous miso katsu, a breaded pork cutlet topped with rich miso sauce.
JPY1800, 1h30m
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Day 2: Kanazawa Historic Culture

Kanazawa, Japan on October 2, 2025

7:30am

Early Breakfast at Curio Espresso and Vintage Design

Start your day with specialty coffee and light pastries in a hip café known for its cozy ambiance in Kanazawa.
JPY900, 1h0m

9:00am

Kenrokuen Garden

Visit one of Japan’s most beautiful landscape gardens, famous for its seasonal flora and tranquil pond views.
JPY320, 1h30m

11:00am

Kanazawa Castle Park

Explore the historic castle grounds adjacent to Kenrokuen with impressive renovated structures and museum displays.
Free, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Omicho Market

Sample fresh local seafood including sushi and crab at the bustling market known as 'Kanazawa’s Kitchen.'
JPY2200, 1h0m

2:00pm

21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art

Discover innovative contemporary artworks in a modern architecture setting, including installations and rotating exhibitions.
JPY1000, 2h0m

5:00pm

Stroll through Higashi Chaya District

Wander through historic streets lined with preserved tea houses, a perfect place to experience Edo-period charm.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Kourin Sushi

Enjoy an authentic sushi dinner with fresh Kanazawa seafood prepared by skilled sushi chefs.
JPY3000, 1h30m
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Day 3: Toyama Bay & Local Delights

Toyama, Japan on October 3, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Pack and Go Toyama

Grab a quick but delicious breakfast with local coffee and pastries before exploring the city.
JPY700, 0h45m

9:00am

Toyama Glass Art Museum

Marvel at remarkable glass art works and learn about the local craft that Toyama is renowned for.
Free, 1h0m

10:30am

Fugan Canal Park

Relax by the scenic canal with views of traditional boats and beautiful bridges, ideal for a peaceful walk.
Free, 1h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Masuzushi Bunzaemon

Taste Toyama’s specialty Masuzushi, a pressed sushi wrap using local trout, sold in beautifully crafted boxes.
JPY1800, 1h0m

1:30pm

Kurobe Gorge Railway Excursion

Take a scenic train ride along the Kurobe Gorge, especially stunning in autumn with vibrant foliage views (check operational times).
JPY2450 (one way), 3h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Warakutei

Enjoy a warm dinner featuring Toyama’s black ramen and fresh seafood specialties.
JPY2200, 1h30m
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Day 4: Pearl Island & Mikimoto Legacy

Toba (Pearl Island), Japan on October 4, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel or Local Café

Eat a hearty Japanese breakfast featuring rice, miso soup, and grilled fish to prepare for the day’s adventures.
JPY1000, 1h0m

9:00am

Travel to Mikimoto Pearl Island

Drive to Mikimoto Pearl Island to explore the birthplace of cultured pearls and enjoy demonstrations by ama pearl divers.
JPY1600, 0h15m

9:30am

Mikimoto Pearl Island Museum

Discover the history and technology behind pearl cultivation while walking through the beautiful island setting.
JPY1600, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Pearl Island Café

Dine with views of the water while enjoying fresh seafood and local specialties.
JPY1500, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Toba Aquarium

Explore diverse marine life including dolphins, penguins, and rare aquatic creatures, open until 5pm.
JPY2500, 2h0m

5:00pm

Drive to Osaka

Begin drive towards Osaka, with a scenic route taking approximately 3.5 hours; check rest stops along the way.
Fuel costs approx. JPY5000, 3h30m
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Day 5: Osaka and USJ Fun

Osaka, Japan on October 5, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at LiLo Coffee Roasters

Enjoy expertly brewed coffee paired with fresh baked goods to energize before USJ visit.
JPY1000, 1h0m

9:00am

Universal Studios Japan (USJ)

Spend a full day exploring thrilling rides, shows, and themed areas including Harry Potter and Minions (park opens at 8:30am, closes at 9pm).
JPY8900, 10h0m

7:30pm

Dinner within USJ at Mel’s Drive-In

Grab classic American diner food such as burgers and shakes while still inside the park.
JPY1500, 1h0m
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Day 6: Explore Osaka City

Osaka, Japan on October 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Kuromon Ichiba Market

Sample fresh seafood, grilled snacks, and local fruits at Osaka’s vibrant market.
JPY1200, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Osaka Castle

Tour this iconic castle and its museum, with panoramic views from the top observation deck.
JPY600, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch in Dotonbori - Kani Doraku

Try Osaka’s famous crab dishes at this landmark restaurant featuring the giant mechanical crab on its facade.
JPY3500, 1h30m

2:00pm

Shinsaibashi Shopping Street

Explore the bustling shopping arcade with boutiques, souvenir shops, and cafes.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Evening river cruise on Dotonbori Canal

Relax on a scenic boat ride that showcases the vibrant illuminated billboards and nightlife of Osaka.
JPY1500, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Mizuno (Okonomiyaki)

Savor Osaka’s famous savory pancake, okonomiyaki, at this well-loved local restaurant.
JPY1500, 1h0m
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Day 7: Kobe and Sake Culture

Kobe, Japan on October 7, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Cafe Kôbe

Enjoy fresh coffee and light breakfast in a stylish setting featuring local Kobe vibes.
JPY900, 1h0m

9:00am

Visit Kobe Harborland

Stroll along the waterfront shopping and entertainment area with views of the port and famous ferris wheel.
Free, 1h30m

11:00am

Kobe Beef Lunch at Mouriya

Indulge in premium Kobe beef delivered with expert grilling and tasteful sides.
JPY7000, 1h30m

1:00pm

Visit Nada Sake District

Tour sake breweries in Japan’s top sake-producing district and sample various types of sake (check brewery tours availability).
Free - JPY1000 for tastings, 2h0m

4:00pm

Mount Rokko Scenic Views

Take the Rokko cable car for panoramic views of Kobe city, harbor, and nearby mountains. Cable car runs 9am to 10pm.
JPY1130 round trip, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Steakland Kobe

Enjoy another opportunity to have Kobe beef in a casual setting serving excellent steaks at reasonable prices.
JPY4500, 1h30m
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Day 8: Autumn Foliage Highlights

Arashiyama / Kyoto outskirts, Japan on October 8, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at local café in Kobe

Quick local Japanese breakfast sandwiches and coffee to start early foliage day.
JPY800, 0h45m

8:30am

Drive to Arashiyama

Head to the scenic area west of Kyoto renowned for breathtaking autumn colors and beautiful bamboo groves.
Fuel approx. JPY1500, 1h30m

10:00am

Explore Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Togetsukyo Bridge

Wander through the famous bamboo forest and enjoy the iconic bridge views surrounded by colorful leaves.
Free, 1h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Shoraian

Have a tofu-based traditional meal overlooking the river—specialty of Arashiyama.
JPY3500, 1h30m

2:00pm

Visit Tenryu-ji Temple and Gardens

Tour UNESCO World Heritage Site temple with stunning autumn garden landscaping.
JPY500, 1h0m

3:30pm

Drive to nearby Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Enjoy panoramic views over Kyoto from a famous historic hillside temple renowned for fall colors.
JPY400, 1h0m

6:00pm

Return to Kobe or stay overnight in Kyoto

Depending on preference, rest in Kobe or enjoy historic Kyoto nightlife.
Varies, Driving time 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at local Izakaya

Delight in small plates and seasonal drinks at a cozy pub featuring regional specialties.
JPY2000, 1h30m
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Day 9: Drive back via Scenic Routes

Return trip - Various locations on October 9, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Light breakfast before a day of travel through scenic and cultural stops back towards Nagoya.
JPY1000, 1h0m

9:30am

Drive towards Ise Shrine

Visit one of Japan’s most sacred Shinto shrines, known for its spiritual significance and serene forested surroundings.
Free, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Okage Yokocho

Taste traditional Japanese street food and shop for local crafts in this lively historic district near Ise Shrine.
JPY1800, 1h0m

1:30pm

Drive back to Nagoya

Travel south back to Nagoya city with a planned rest stop at Atsuta Shrine for a short visit.
Fuel approx. JPY3500, 3h0m

5:00pm

Visit Atsuta Shrine

Explore one of Shinto’s most important shrines with peaceful grounds and a historic treasure hall.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Farewell Dinner at Sakae Sushi Nagoya

Enjoy a premium and fresh sushi meal to conclude your memorable Japan road trip.
JPY3000, 1h30m
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Day 10: Nagoya Leisure & Departure

Nagoya, Japan on October 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel or Café

Relax over coffee and a simple breakfast as you prepare for departure or final exploration in Nagoya.
JPY800, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit SCMAGLEV and Railway Park

Explore Japan’s cutting-edge maglev train technology with interactive exhibits and train displays.
JPY1000, 2h0m

12:00pm

Light lunch at nearby Café

Enjoy light sandwiches or bento boxes before your final sightseeing.
JPY1200, 1h0m

1:30pm

Shopping at Osu Shopping District

Browse an eclectic mix of shops featuring vintage fashion, electronics, and souvenirs in a lively downtown area.
Free, 2h0m

4:00pm

Back to hotel and prepare for departure

Rest and pack up your belongings before heading out
Free, 1h0m
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