Japan by Rail

Japan by Rail

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21 Days From

$10778

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Japan with the "Japan by Rail" tour, a captivating exploration of the country's rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Begin your adventure in Fukuoka, the gateway to Kyushu, and travel by train to iconic destinations like Nagasaki, Hiroshima, and Kyoto. Reflect on history at Nagasaki's Atomic Bomb Museum, admire the serene temples of Kyoto, and witness the playful snow monkeys in Jigokudani. Experience the bustling energy of Tokyo, discover the charm of Sendai and Hakodate, and savor the flavors of Japan with sushi-making and sake-tasting experiences. With comfortable 3* plus to 4* accommodations and all meals included, this rail tour offers a seamless and enriching way to explore the Land of the Rising Sun. ...more ...less

Highlights

  • Reflect in Nagasaki & Hiroshima.

  • Admire Kyoto's temples.

  • See the snow monkeys.

  • Explore bustling Tokyo.

  • Discover Sendai & Hakodate.

  • Spend time in Sapporo.

  • Visit the magnificent Himeji Castle.

Itinerary

Expand All

Days 1-2: Fly overnight to Fukuoka

Location: Fukuoka

Accommodation Name: Hakata Excel Hotel Tokyu

Meals Included: Dinner

Fly overnight to the charming city of Fukuoka, the gateway to the island of Kyushu. Depending on your time of arrival, the rest of the day is yours to start soaking up the local culture.

Day 3: Explore Nagasaki

Location: Nagasaki, Glover Garden, Nagasaki, Oura Catholic Church, Nagasaki, Atomic Bomb Museum, Nagasaki, Fukuoka

Accommodation Name: Hakata Excel Hotel Tokyu

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Begin the day by travelling on the limited express train to Nagasaki. Upon arrival, enjoy a stroll through the Glover Garden, an open-air museum that exhibits mansions attributed to the Scottish merchant who contributed to the modernisation of Japan. Also, visit the Oura Catholic Church and Atomic Bomb Museum before returning to Fukuoka.

Day 4: Miyajima Island

Miyajima, Japan
Hiroshima, Japan
Hiroshima, Japan
CRISTINA TIRON Hiroshima, Japan
CRISTINA TIRON Hiroshima, Japan

Location: Hiroshima, Miyajima, Itsukushima Shrine

Accommodation Name: Grand Prince Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Board the bullet train to Hiroshima, located on Japan's largest island, Honshu. Upon

arrival in Hiroshima, take the ferry across the Seto Inland Sea to the holy island of

Miyajima. Here, visit the Itsukushima Shrine and enjoy a momiji manju making cooking experience. Later, return to Hiroshima.

Day 5: Hiroshima Highlights

Hiroshima, Japan
Hiroshima, Japan
CRISTINA TIRON Hiroshima, Japan
CRISTINA TIRON Hiroshima, Japan

Location: Hiroshima, Peace Memorial Park, Hiroshima, Orizuru Tower, Hiroshima, Shukkeien Garden, Hiroshima

Accommodation Name: Grand Prince Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Spend the day in Hiroshima starting with a visit to the Peace Memorial Park and Museum where you will have the opportunity to pay homage to the victims of the 1945 atomic bomb. Enjoy okonomiyaki for lunch before ascending Orizuru Tower to view the city from above, followed by a stroll through the historical Shukkeien Garden.

Day 6: Admire Himeji Castle

Osaka Castle
Universal Studios Japan

Location: Himeji, Osaka

Accommodation Name: Rihga Royal Osaka

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Depart Hiroshima by bullet train, stopping at Himeji to visit the magnificent Himeji Castle, followed by a walk through Kokoen. Continue by limited express to Osaka.

Day 7: Osaka & Nara Day Trip

Universal Studios Japan
Osaka Castle

Location: Umeda Sky Building, Osaka, Dotonbori, Osaka, Todaiji Temple, Nara

Accommodation Name: Rihga Royal Osaka

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Begin the day with a visit to the Umeda Sky Building followed by a lunch at the famous Dontonburi district. Later, head to Nara and explore Todaiji Temple which houses the impressive Daibutsu, a 15-metre tall bronze statue of Buddha. Enjoy an ink making and calligraphy class before returning to Osaka.

Day 8: Kyoto's Temples

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Gion District
Fushimi Inari Shrine
Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
Gion District
Fushimi Inari Shrine
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Location: Kyoto, Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Ryoanji Temple, Kinkakuji Temple

Accommodation Name: Rihga Gran Kyoto

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Journey by road to Kyoto. Capital for 1,000 years, this enchanting city is the epitome of traditional Japan. Upon arrival, stroll through the Arashiyama bamboo forest and admire the towering thickets. Also visit Ryoanji Temple, home to Japan's best-known zen garden and the famous 'Golden Pavilion' Kinkakuji Temple.

Day 9: Tea Ceremony & Fan Painting

Fushimi Inari Shrine
Gion District
Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Location: Kiyomizu-dera, Kyoto, Gion, Kyoto

Accommodation Name: Rihga Gran Kyoto

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The day begins with a visit to Kiyomizu-dera temple in Kyoto. Next, immerse yourself in the culture and enjoy the age-old rituals of a sacred tea ceremony, zen mediation and try your hand at fan painting. Also explore Gion – Kyoto's famous geisha district.

Day 10: Explore Kanazawa

3 ya Kanazawa, Japan

Location: Kanazawa, Kenrokuen, Nomura Samurai House, Kunani Pottery Factory

Accommodation Name: Hotel Kanazawa

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Take the limited express train to Kanazawa and upon arrival, meander your way through Kenrokuen, one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan. Also visit the Nomura Samurai House and Kunani Pottery Factory.

Day 11: Shirakawago Village

Takayama, Japan
Takayama, Japan
Takayama, Japan
Takayama, Japan
Takayama, Japan
Takayama, Japan

Location: Inami, Shirakawago, Takayama

Accommodation Name: Hotel Kanazawa

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Travel by road to Takayama stopping en route at Inami for a sake wooden cup making experience and sake tasting. Next, continue to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Shirakawago Village to get a glimpse of rural Japan. Continue to Takayama.

Day 12: Discover Takayama

Takayama, Japan
Takayama, Japan
Takayama, Japan
Takayama, Japan
Takayama, Japan
Takayama, Japan

Location: Takayama, Miyagawa Market, Takayama Floats Museum, Takayama Jinya

Accommodation Name: Hotel Kanazawa

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Spend the morning browsing the local handicrafts and fresh produce at Miyagawa

market, the Takayama Floats Museum and Takayama Jinya. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure.

Day 13: Search for Snow Monkeys

Location: Matsumoto, Nagano, Jigokudani Monkey Park

Accommodation Name: Rako Hananoi Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Drive through the Japanese Alps, enjoying the mountain scenery en route to Matsumoto and Nagano. After lunch, head to Yudanaka and head to Jigokudani Yaen-Koen. Walk through a picturesque forested valley to the hot pools where you can search for the famous Japanese macaques (snow monkeys) -at Jigokudani Monkey Park - sighting not guaranteed. Later, return to Matsumoto.

Day 14: Matsumoto Castle

Location: Matsumoto, Naraijuku, Suwa

Accommodation Name: Rako Hananoi Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Begin the day with a visit to the magnificent 16th-century Matsumoto Castle, also known as 'Crow Castle', due to its intense black exterior. Next, head to a miso house and learn about the process of making this famous Japanese seasoning. Also visit the former post town of Naraijuku before continuing to Suwa.

Day 15: Mount Fuji

Imperial Palace
Tsukiji Outer Market
Odaiba, Tokyo
Meiji Jingu, Tokyo
Hakone, Japan
Akihabara Electric Town
Sensoji Temple, Tokyo

Location: Hakone, Mount Fuji, Lake Ashi, Tokyo

Accommodation Name: Sunshine City Prince Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Travel to Hakone and ascend 2,400 metres to the 5th Station (weather permitting) for

magnificent views of Mt Fuji. Also, enjoy a peaceful cruise on Lake Ashi before taking

to the skies on the Komagatake Ropeway. Later, continue to Tokyo by road.

Day 16: Tour Tokyo

Location: Hamarikyu Gardens, Tokyo, Sensoji Temple, Tokyo, Nakamise Shopping Street, Tokyo, Imperial Palace Plaza, Tokyo

Accommodation Name: Sunshine City Prince Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Begin the day with a stroll through Hamarikyu Gardens. Next, take part in a sushi making class and enjoy your own creations for lunch! Later, soak up the atmosphere at Sensoji temple, browse the stalls on Nakamise shopping street and drive-by the Imperial Palace Plaza.

Day 17: Even more Tokyo

Imperial Palace
Odaiba, Tokyo
Meiji Jingu, Tokyo
Akihabara Electric Town
Sensoji Temple, Tokyo
Tsukiji Outer Market

Location: Tokyo Metropolitan Building, Tokyo, Meiji Jingu Shrine, Tokyo, Shibuya Crossing, Tokyo, Tokyo Bay, Tokyo

Accommodation Name: Sunshine City Prince Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Begin the day at the Tokyo Metropolitan Building and ascend to the observation deck

for breathtaking views over the sprawling city. Next, soak up the atmosphere at the peaceful Meiji Jingu Shrine and drive-by the world-famous Shibuya crossing. End the day with a relaxing dinner cruise on Tokyo Bay.

Day 18: Sip Whisky in Sendai

Location: Sendai, Matsushima Bay, Nikka Whisky Factory, Sendai

Accommodation Name: Hotel Vista Sendai

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

As the tour journeys to northern Honshu, board the bullet train to Sendai, the largest city in Tohoku. Upon arrival, transfer by road to Matsushima and enjoy a cruise on Matsushima Bay. Also, visit the famous Nikka Whisky factory in Sendai.

Day 19: Explore Hakodate

Location: Hakodate, Goryokaku Tower, Mt Hakodate Ropeway

Accommodation Name: Hakodate Kokusai Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Say goodbye to Honshu Island as you board the bullet train to Hakodate located on Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost island. Visit the Goryokaku Tower, a star shaped fortress followed by some time at leisure. This evening, journey on the Mt Hakodate Ropeway and enjoy the fabulous views of the city below.

Day 20: Sapporo Sightseeing

Location: Sapporo, Clock Tower, Sapporo, Odori Park, Sapporo, Sapporo Beer Museum, Sapporo

Accommodation Name: Sapporo View Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Board the bullet train for the very last time to Sapporo. Head to the Clock Tower and Odori Park and in the evening, stop by the Sapporo Beer Museum and enjoy a tasting or two, followed by a farewell dinner.

Day 21: Fly Sapporo to UK

Location: Sapporo

Accommodation Name: Sapporo View Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Fly to the UK, arriving home the same or following day.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    3* plus – 4* accommodation is included in the tour.

  • Guided Tours

    Touring with guides and entrance fees are included.

  • Transportation

    Domestic transportation is included in the tour.

  • Meals

    All meals are included in the tour package.

What's Not Included

  • Fully Guided

    The tour is not fully guided at all times.

  • Tipping and Gratuities

    Tipping and gratuities are not included, but you may tip at your discretion for excellent service.

  • Drinks with Meals

    Drinks with meals are not included in the tour package.

Accommodation

Experience a range of accommodations from the 4-star Hakata Excel Hotel Tokyu in Fukuoka to the Sapporo View Hotel, offering modern amenities, spacious en-suite bathrooms, and a variety of dining options. Enjoy facilities like hot spring baths, fitness centers, and convenient locations near major attractions. ...more ...less

Experiences

Momiji ManjuUnder the guidance of a skilled instructor, try your hand at making Momiji manju (maple leaf bean buns), Miyajima's most famous confectionary for over a hundred years.

Sake Cup MakingLearn about the role of the masu sake cup in Japan’s culture before stepping into the studio to make your very own cup with an original design, which you can then take home as a souvenir!

Learn to make SushiDiscover the history and etiquette of making and appreciating sushi with a hands-on lesson before sitting down with your instructing chef to enjoy Japan’s most famous cuisine. It’s the taking part that counts!

...more ...less

Mode of Transport

Travel across Japan using a combination of bullet trains, limited express trains, and ferries, ensuring a seamless journey through cities like Fukuoka, Hiroshima, and Sapporo. Enjoy the convenience and efficiency of Japan's renowned rail network, complemented by road transfers and scenic cruises.

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of accommodation can I expect on the Japan by Rail tour?

    The tour offers 3* plus to 4* accommodation, including hotels like Hakata Excel Hotel Tokyu in Fukuoka, Grand Prince Hotel in Hiroshima, and Rihga Royal Hotel in Osaka, among others. These hotels provide amenities such as air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and various dining options. ...more ...less

  • Are meals included in the Japan by Rail tour?

    Yes, all meals are included in the tour package.

  • What unique experiences are included in the Japan by Rail tour?

    The tour includes unique experiences such as making Momiji manju, a traditional confectionary, a sake cup making experience, and a sushi making class where you can learn the history and etiquette of sushi.

  • Will I have the opportunity to see snow monkeys during the tour?

    Yes, the tour includes a visit to Jigokudani Monkey Park where you can search for the famous Japanese macaques, also known as snow monkeys. However, sightings are not guaranteed.

  • What cultural activities are included in the tour?

    The tour includes cultural activities such as a sacred tea ceremony, zen meditation, fan painting, and an ink making and calligraphy class.

  • Is tipping expected during the tour?

    Tipping is not customary in Japan, but if you feel you have received excellent service, you are welcome to tip your guide at your discretion.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    If, after our confirmation invoice has been issued, you wish to change your travel arrangements in any way, we will endeavour to make these changes, but it may not always be possible. Any changes to confirmed bookings need to be sent to us in writing via your travel agent. Please refer to our booking conditions for further information and fees.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Customers booking to travel solo can choose our ‘Happy to Share’ option, which may enable them to share a twin room with other solo customers of the same gender who also request Happy to Share, thus avoiding the need to pay single room supplements. Note that ‘Happy to Share’ requests can be received when you make your booking with us but will not be confirmed until your final payment due date.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Your Final Travel Documents are usually sent to you 2-3 weeks prior to your departure. Your travel pack will include your tour itinerary, hotel details, flight e-tickets and a travel guide. If you have booked with a travel agent, your tickets will be dispatched to your travel agent unless we have been otherwise informed.

  • Will I be travelling with passengers from other countries?

    Our passengers generally enjoy the mixture of British, Australian and American clients on tour. Occasionally we are joined by English-speaking passengers from other countries.

  • What is 'Happy to Share'?

    Customers booking to travel solo can choose our ‘Happy to Share’ option, which may enable them to share a twin room with other solo customers of the same gender who also request Happy to Share, thus avoiding the need to pay single room supplements. Note that ‘Happy to Share’ requests can be received when you make your booking with us but will not be confirmed until your final payment due date. If a share partner is found, the Single Supplement will be removed from your booking. If a share partner is not found, the Single Supplement will remain and is payable with your final balance in line with our normal booking conditions. Either way, our Operations Team will contact you around 75 days before departure to let you know whether a share partner has been found or not. We regret that Happy to Share requests cannot be accepted within 75 days of departure. Wendy Wu Tours reserves the right to change or withdraw this arrangement at any time.

  • Do you allow children on your tours?

    We allow children 12 years and over on our group tours. We recommend that families with children of any age take advantage of our private or tailormade tours. This will give you more flexibility while on tour.

Reviews of this operator

Feefo Rated Customer  

Colours of Costa Rica

26-Mar-2020

This was our first tour with you and from start to finish we were guided by Isaac who made sure everything went smoothly. He was laid back - but on the ball - always available and very informative.

Excellent
Feefo Rated Customer  

Ultimate South America

21-Mar-2020

We were hoping this tour would be the holiday of a lifetime and it certainly was. Our guide, Corina, was fantastic and evry country we visited had something special. FANTASTIC

Excellent
William  

Japan Uncovered

12-Nov-2022

A superb trip which ticked all our boxes and covered all the main experiences you would wish for on a trip to Japan! We were looked after by excellent local guides. All of our accommodation was very good. With all meals included we got the chance to experience the local cuisine ...more ...less

Alastair  

Christmas in Vietnam

06-Jan-2023

Vietnam at Christmas, Excellent Experience From start to finish Vietnam at Christmas was amazing, The tour group, Local Guide Loc, we must have been blessed as the weather was excellent only one day of rain. Tour Group 11/10 Guide 11/10 Hotels 8/10 Food 8/10 Itineary10/10 Faboulous experience on Christmas in Vietnam ...more ...less

Feefo Rated Customer  

Highlights of Sri Lanka

24-Mar-2020

Great Country. Good range of different things to do and places to see - temples to beaches to wildlife. Hotels ranged from adequate to excellent. Food quality and variety was better than we expected A really good tour guide and our fellow travellers were excellent company. Would recommend despite the impact of Corona Virus cutting out a few later trips but that was beyond anyone's ability to control.. ...more ...less

Excellent

1 Select your preferred date

Thursday - Wednesday

Jun 05, 2025 - Jun 25, 2025
$10778 (USD)

Thursday - Wednesday

Jun 19, 2025 - Jul 09, 2025
$10778 (USD)

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.

    Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.

    At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

Japan by Rail

21 Days Starting in Fukuoka, Japan and ending in Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan

Visiting: Fukuoka, Nagasaki, Glover Garden, Nagasaki, Oura Catholic Church, Nagasaki, Atomic Bomb Museum, Nagasaki, Hiroshima, Miyajima, Itsukushima Shrine, Peace Memorial Park, Hiroshima, Orizuru Tower, Hiroshima, Shukkeien Garden, Hiroshima, Himeji, Osaka, Umeda Sky Building, Osaka, Dotonbori, Osaka, Todaiji Temple, Nara, Kyoto, Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Ryoanji Temple, Kinkakuji Temple, Kiyomizu-dera, Kyoto, Gion, Kyoto, Kanazawa, Kenrokuen, Nomura Samurai House, Kunani Pottery Factory, Inami, Shirakawago, Takayama, Miyagawa Market, Takayama Floats Museum, Takayama Jinya, Matsumoto, Nagano, Jigokudani Monkey Park, Naraijuku, Suwa, Hakone, Mount Fuji, Lake Ashi, Tokyo, Hamarikyu Gardens, Tokyo, Sensoji Temple, Tokyo, Nakamise Shopping Street, Tokyo, Imperial Palace Plaza, Tokyo, Tokyo Metropolitan Building, Tokyo, Meiji Jingu Shrine, Tokyo, Shibuya Crossing, Tokyo, Tokyo Bay, Tokyo, Sendai, Matsushima Bay, Nikka Whisky Factory, Sendai, Hakodate, Goryokaku Tower, Mt Hakodate Ropeway, Sapporo, Clock Tower, Sapporo, Odori Park, Sapporo, Sapporo Beer Museum Sapporo ...more ...less

Tour operator:

Wendy Wu

Tour code:

1986

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

12 - 28

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

12-99

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians, Meat

Tour operated in:

English

Activities:

Sightseeing

From: $10778 (USD)

NB: Prices correct on 19-Mar-2025 but subject to change.

Why book with Barrhead?

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Reliable & unbiased advice from our trusted travel experts.

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