Highlights of Japan by Rail

Arrive in Japan’s bustling capital, where an English-speaking assistant will meet you at the airport and arrange your private transfer to your hotel. Once checked in, the rest of the day is yours to relax after your flight or begin exploring at leisure. Perhaps wander the neon streets of Shinjuku, enjoy a first taste of sushi, or take in the city lights from an observation deck. (Overnight in Tokyo)

Embark on a full-day guided tour by public transport and experience Tokyo’s mix of tradition and innovation. Begin with a Taiko drumming session, an exhilarating introduction to Japanese culture. Ascend the Tokyo Skytree for sweeping views across the metropolis, then travel to Asakusa to visit Sensoji Temple and browse the historic Nakamise shopping street. End the day in Akihabara, famed for anime, manga, and vibrant pop culture. (Overnight in Tokyo) 

Meals: Breakfast

This morning, meet your English-speaking assistant at your hotel for a private transfer to Tokyo Station. After assistance with boarding, travel in comfort onboard the Nozomi Shinkansen to Shin Osaka in your reserved Green Car seat.

On arrival, your guide will meet you at the platform and accompany you to your hotel to leave your bags. Spend the afternoon exploring Osaka on a half-day tour by public transport. Discover the retro charm of Shinsekai or the lively Dotombori district, sampling local specialties such as takoyaki, before strolling along Shinsaibashi Shopping Street. Return to your hotel in the evening. (Overnight in Osaka)

Meals: Breakfast

Today’s full-day excursion takes you with your guide to Mount Koya, one of Japan’s most sacred destinations. Discover centuries-old temples, moss-covered cedar forests, and the atmospheric Okunoin Cemetery, where thousands of lanterns light the way to the mausoleum of Kobo Daishi, the founder of Shingon Buddhism. Learn about monastic traditions and soak in the peaceful atmosphere before returning to Osaka in the evening. (Overnight in Osaka) 

Meals: Breakfast

This morning, board the train for the short journey to Kyoto, Japan’s former imperial capital. After settling in, enjoy some leisure time before meeting your guide in the evening. Wander the lantern-lit streets of the Gion district, where wooden teahouses line narrow lanes. Finish the evening at Gion Corner, where you’ll see performances of traditional Japanese arts including dance, music, and tea ceremony. (Overnight in Kyoto) 

Meals: Breakfast

Travel with your guide today to the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine, walking beneath thousands of bright red torii gates as they wind up the hillside. Continue to a local brewery in the Fushimi district for a sake tasting, learning how this iconic Japanese beverage is made. In the afternoon, journey to Nara to visit Todaiji Temple and its Great Buddha, before strolling through Nara Park, where tame deer roam freely. Return to Kyoto in the evening. (Overnight in Kyoto) 

Meals: Breakfast

Spend the day exploring the beautiful Arashiyama district on the western edge of Kyoto. With your guide, visit Tenryu-ji Temple and its Zen gardens, then walk through the towering bamboo grove of Sagano, an otherworldly highlight of Kyoto. Cross the famous Togetsukyo Bridge spanning the Hozugawa River and visit Okouchi Sanso Villa, a hillside retreat with landscaped gardens and sweeping views. Enjoy the evening at leisure back in central Kyoto. (Overnight in Kyoto) 

Meals: Breakfast

This morning, take the scenic train journey into the Japanese Alps to reach the historic town of Takayama. After checking in, explore the town at your own pace. Stroll through the Edo-period streets lined with wooden merchant houses, stop at a local sake brewery, or sample Hida beef, a regional delicacy. The evening is yours to enjoy this peaceful mountain setting. (Overnight in Takayama) 

Meals: Breakfast

Join your guide for a full-day excursion by private car to explore both Takayama and Shirakawa-go. Visit the lively morning markets and Takayama Jinya, a historic government building, before continuing to Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage village. Marvel at the steeply thatched gassho-zukuri farmhouses, explore the open-air museum, and take in the view from the observation deck before travelling onward to Kanazawa. (Overnight in Kanazawa) 

Meals: Breakfast

Spend the morning exploring Kanazawa with your guide. Visit Kenrokuen Garden, considered one of the finest in Japan, and stroll through the preserved Nagamachi samurai district, where you’ll find earthen walls and narrow alleys. Continue to the Higashi Chaya geisha district, known for its atmospheric teahouses. The afternoon is free for further exploration—perhaps visit Kanazawa Castle or the bustling Omicho Market. (Overnight in Kanazawa)

Meals: Breakfast

Board the train for your return journey to Tokyo. After checking in, enjoy your final evening in Japan at leisure. You might choose to explore Shibuya Crossing, shop for souvenirs, or simply relax and reflect on your adventure with a farewell dinner. (Overnight in Tokyo)

Meals: Breakfast

Check out of your hotel and meet your assistant for a private transfer to Narita Airport. If you’d like to extend your journey—perhaps with more time in Tokyo or an extension to Hakone—your Rail Expert can make all the arrangements. 

Meals: Breakfast