Week-long Tours: Exploring Japan by Rail

Are you planning a week-long adventure in Japan? Look no further! We’ve crafted the perfect 7-day itinerary that showcases the best of Japan’s diverse landscapes, rich culture, and efficient rail network. Buckle up for an unforgettable journey through the Land of the Rising Sun!

Day 1-2: Tokyo

Start your journey in the bustling metropolis of Tokyo. Use your Japan Rail Pass to explore the city’s highlights:

1. Explore the traditional Asakusa district and visit Senso-ji Temple
2. Experience the vibrant pop culture in Akihabara
3. Take in the views from Tokyo Skytree
4. Enjoy a peaceful stroll in the Imperial Palace East Gardens

Getting around: Use the JR Yamanote Line to access most major areas in Tokyo.

Day 3: Hakone

Take a break from the city and head to the scenic Hakone region:

1. Ride the Hakone Tozan Railway for breathtaking mountain views
2. Enjoy a cruise on Lake Ashi
3. Take a cable car ride for panoramic views of Mt. Fuji (weather permitting)

Getting there: Take the JR Tokaido Shinkansen from Tokyo to Odawara, then transfer to the Hakone Tozan Railway.

Day 4-5: Kyoto

Immerse yourself in the cultural heart of Japan:

1. Visit the iconic Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and Kiyomizu-dera Temple
2. Stroll through the historic Gion district
3. Experience a traditional tea ceremony
4. Take a day trip to nearby Nara to see the Great Buddha and feed the friendly deer

Getting there: Take the JR Tokaido Shinkansen from Odawara to Kyoto Station.

Day 6: Hiroshima and Miyajima

Explore Hiroshima’s poignant history and the scenic island of Miyajima:

1. Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum
2. Take a ferry to Miyajima Island
3. See the famous floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine

Getting there: Take the JR Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen from Kyoto to Hiroshima Station. Then use the JR Sanyo Line to Miyajimaguchi Station for the ferry to Miyajima.

Day 7: Return to Tokyo

On your final day, take the scenic route back to Tokyo:

1. Board the Shinkansen from Hiroshima to Tokyo
2. Enjoy the passing landscapes and perhaps catch a final glimpse of Mt. Fuji

Getting there: Take the JR Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen from Hiroshima back to Tokyo.

Tips for your rail journey:

• Purchase a 7-day Japan Rail Pass for unlimited travel on JR lines
• Make seat reservations for long-distance Shinkansen trips
• Use IC cards like Pasmo or Suica for convenient travel on local trains
• Download railway apps like Hyperdia for up-to-date schedules and route planning

This week-long itinerary offers a perfect blend of urban exploration, cultural immersion, and natural beauty, all accessible via Japan’s world-class rail network. Enjoy your journey through the heart of Japan!