Visit Japan in 3 weeks by train

A big thank you to Clémentine for sharing her itinerary and pictures with us ! 

You’ve always been fascinated with Japan? By its history as well as its ultra-modernity? Do you love discovering big cities but also enjoy nature? Want to know Japan by heart? You will love this itinerary!

Starting with the Japanese capital, discover the country going through the historic city of Hiroshima or the beautiful island of Miyajimacho down to Fukuoka. You won’t want to go back home!

Here is a glimpse of the beautiful experiences awaiting in 3-week itinerary in Japan:

• Enjoy the beautiful landscapes from your train’s window
• Discover the historical side of Tokyo when visiting Asakusa district
• Dive into Japanese culture while strolling around Nishiki market in Kyoto
• Take in the incredible panorama over Nara from Mount Wakakura
• Bring out your inner child and have fun at Osaka’s Universal Studios
• Visit one of the last wood castle of the country in Himeji
• Participate in a delicious food tour in Hiroshima
• Discover true Japanese authenticity when sleeping on Miyajima island
• Try out Hakata Ramen, Fukuoka’s specialty

To travel safely and without any worry on your mind, we recommend Chapka Insurance!

3-week itinerary in Japan by train

Tokyo > Kyoto > Nara > Osaka > Himeji > Hiroshima > Miyajima > Fukuoka

Some practical information before your trip to Japan

Information on JAPAN RAILPASS :
For this itinerary, we recommend traveling with the JR PASS (aka Japan Rail Pass) to travel unlimitedly on Japanese national trains (JR). With this pass, you can also access buses, ferries, subways and airport transfers of the network. To book it at the best price, visit Japan Rail Pass’ website.

In this itinerary, don’t take into account what GoogleMaps calculates : plane, bus and train trip length are not correct. To book your pass and know the real travel times, visit Japan Rail Pass’ website.

WIFI: For your trip to Japan, you may need unlimited wifi access. We recommend you to choose a Pocket Wifi. We recommend you this one which is the most adapted and the cheapest.

SIM card: To communicate in Japan, and not to explode your phone plan, you will need a local sim card. We recommend you to buy this one again the best value for money in our opinion!

You want to buy a paper travel guide? We recommend this one! In our opinion, it is the most complete, the most visual and the most up to date!

Need a road map to prepare your 3-week itinerary in Japan? We recommend this one, the most detailed and the most pleasant to read!

The best period for this itinerary in Japan is from April to June, as well as September and October. During these months there is less rain, temperatures are pleasant and it is not too humid. To see the cherry blossoms, you’ll have to travel in April or May! See more details here.

Even if Japanese gastronomy has been well imported to us, in the country of origin it will be even better! So take the time to try miso soup, gyozas, noodle soups (ramen, soba and udon) and yakitori, delicious grilled meat skewers. Also try sushi, which is quite different from the ones we are served at home!

Contents: 3-week itinerary in Japan by train

1- Tokyo – Stop 1 of the 3-week itinerary in Japan
2- Kyoto – Stop 2 of the 3-week itinerary in Japan
3- Nara – Stop 3 of the 3-week itinerary in Japan
4- Osaka – Stop 4 of the 3-week itinerary in Japan
5- Himeji – Stop 5 of the 3-week itinerary in Japan
6- Hiroshima – Stop 6 of the 3-week itinerary in Japan
7- Miyajima – Stop 7 of the 3-week itinerary in Japan
8- Fukuoka – Stop 8 of the 3-week itinerary in Japan

3-week itinerary in Japan by train : step by step

What to do in Tokyo?

First stop of this 3-week itinerary in Japan, country’s capital, Tokyo is a modern and busy city. You will undoubtedly find a district you like : historic, electronic, trendy, luxurious … It’s a very diverse city! 

When leaving Tokyo, be sure to get a JR Pass. This pass allows you to take the train all across the country and will make you save a lot of money (instead of paying each trip separately). 7, 14 and 21 days passes are available. 

• Explore the historic district of Asakusa, you will discover the city’s oldest buddhist temple: the Sensoji Temple dating back to the 7th century. The beauty of this place will take your breath away.
• Head to Akihabara, the electronic district. Video game and manga fans will love it! It is also known for its Maid Cafes, and yes you guessed it … The waitresses are dressed like maids!
• Go check out a Don-Quijote store, there are 40 in the city and you can’t not see them: their mascot is a giant blue penguin. There, you can basically find anything you could be looking for. An absolute must-see!
• You got luxurious tastes? Head to the Ginza district where you will find many high-end shops.

Continue your visit of Tokyo with:

• You can not go to Tokyo without going to at least one of its themed restaurants/cafes! From the cat cafe (almost normal now right?) and the hedgehog cafe to the Alice in Wonderland restaurant or the classic karaoke. You have to try at least one!
• Visit Harajuku, the district where young people hang out. Here, you can go shopping or go for a walk in one of the largest parks in the city : the Yoyogi Park. On Saturdays, enjoy the music played by different bands in the park.
• If you want to keep up to date with the latest trends, go to the district of Shibuya, one of the trendiest districts in Tokyo, with its famous crossing where thousands of people cross the road at the same time. You know, the one you always see in pictures?
• If you have time, Clémentine suggests spending a whole day in the city of Hakone, (1,5 hour train ride). Have lunch by the lake with a view of the Mount Fuji. You could even go for a cruise on the lake to enjoy the view even better.
• Always felt like a hipster? You are a trend setter? Go explore the district of Shimokitazawa. You will find many thrift shops and small concert halls.
• To end your Tokyo experience, spend a day (or more!) in the Tokyo Disney Resort, and no it’s not the same as the one you have at home, it’s unique!

Which activities to have fun in Tokyo?

• Have you seen the viral videos of people karting in Tokyo as if they were in Mario Kart? Well, this can become your reality, and it starts with booking this activity!
• Karting is not really up your alley? What do you say about doing a sushi making class, along with a local chef to help you?
• You’ve always dreamt of living as a samurai, even for a few hours? Well, your time has come, because you can train in a Dojo, the traditional way, and you will be one step closer to your dream!

Where to sleep in Tokyo?

• Mid-range: APA Hotel Shinjuku-Kabukicho Tower, located near Shinjuku station in the north-west of Tokyo in the Kabukicho district. What we like: the public baths on the top floor, the view and the cleanliness!
• High-end: Looking for a 5-star accommodation? The Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo should delight you. Also located near Shinjuku station, the view is amazing! This is clearly a luxury hotel where every detail has been thought through…
• Traditional: The Ryokan Asakusa Shigetsu located in a quiet street of Asakusa is worth a visit.  What we like: the baths on the 6th floor with a view on the Tokyo Skytree, the geographical location and the very good welcome. It is definitely a more “traditional” establishment than the previously recommended hotels.

What to do in Kyoto?

Clémentine’s tips : On the train to Kyoto, sit on the right side of the train if you want to enjoy a view of the Mount Fuji during the trip. 

A city with a fascinating cultural heritage, Kyoto, second stop of this 3-week itinerary in Japan is mainly known for its many buddhist temples but there are so many things to see in Kyoto that you will want to come back.

• Discover the Nishiki Market, a 400m long food market. Take the time to taste some local specialities like octopus, fish or dangos.
• Admire the Golden Pavilion – or Kinkakuji in Japanese, the most famous building in the city. This beautiful 3-story pavilion perfectly blends three architectural styles.
• Visit the many temples that are open to the public : the Kiyomizu Dera, great water temple, the  Heian Jingu, peace sanctuary, the Fushimi Imari temple and its 10 000 orange Torii (a stunning place to take pictures!).
• Walk around the district of Gion, the Geisha district!
• Explore the Arashiyama mountain, lost in the bamboo forest, maybe you will get to meet a local, and by that, we mean a… monkey!
• Head to the Nijo Castle and take a walk in its beautiful gardens. Inside, you will discover amazing paintings from the Edo period. Be aware that pictures are forbidden inside.

Which activities to have fun in Kyoto?

• Visiting during the day is great, but what about discovering Japanese nightlife? Participating a night tour of the city with a local as a guide is a great way to start!
• You’re a fashion lover? You saw women in traditional clothes and you’ve always wanted to try it out? This activity offers a full maiko makeover, from clothes to make-up, with a photoshoot afterwards!

Where to sleep in Kyoto?

• Mid-range: In the heart of downtown Kyoto, the Piece Hostel Sanjo offers private rooms with breakfast and WI-FI included in the price. What we like: its exceptional booking note, its very nice rooftop, in short, ideal to relax after a good day of walking!
• High-end: Opened in 2016, Villa Sanjomuromachi is a luxurious establishment less than 5 minutes from Karasuma Oike underground station, in the heart of Kyoto! Considering the high-end service, the hotel remains affordable. Ideal if you are looking for incredible comfort!
• Traditional: Immerse yourself in traditional Japan by spending a night in the centre of Kyoto at the Ryokan Takasegawa Bettei! Located close to many temples, this establishment has succeeded in combining Japanese tradition and modernity and is ideal for all history lovers. The small extra: breakfast can be served in the rooms!

What to do in Nara?

A short stop of this 3-week itinerary in Japan to discover Nara and its temples. Also known for the deers that walk around freely in the city! 

• You’ve always dreamed of meeting Buddha? Head to the Todai-ji, the Great Buddha Hall. Great is not an understatement here, as it is a 18 m / 59 ft high and 250 ton bronze Buddha !
• Visit the Kasuga Taisha, a sanctuary with hundreds of bronze lanterns. Enjoy the walk up to the UNESCO-listed temple.
• Hikers, climb up to the top of Mount Wakakusa from which you can enjoy a stunning panoramic view.

Where to sleep in Nara?

• Mid-range: Meet the Nara Royal Hotel, an establishment that offers a more than competitive quality-price ratio! It has a spa, 4 restaurants and a tea room overlooking a small garden, which is pretty cool!
• High-end: 500m from Kōfuku-ji temple, relax at Setre Naramachi. The location is great (next to a small lake and park) and 200m from a metro station. Enjoy your Japanese breakfast with a panoramic view of the city.
• Traditional: cut yourself off from the world for a night at the Mikasa. A paradise of relaxation with 2 natural hot baths outside, a typical Japanese decoration, and a superb view of the city. We also appreciate their shuttle to the train station or their luggage storage service if you want to visit the city after check-out.

What to do in Osaka?

Thrid largest city in Japan, Osaka is often left out by travelers but the city is really worth visiting! Busy districts and a beautiful castle: you’ll love it. It’s a great stop of this 3-week itinerary in Japan.

• Explore the district of Namba. Walk on Dotonbori street, the district’s main street with many shops and restaurants.
• Feeling hungry? Taste Osaka’s speciality: the takoyaki, some kind of octopus paste balls. Well, described like that it doesn’t sound appetizing but I swear it’s delicious! We recommend doing a food tour to discover more of the local specialties!
• Take a break in the Minoh Park, you can go for a hike following the river up to a wonderful waterfall. During the walk you will get to admire temples or drink a tea in a traditional coffee shop.
• Want to learn more about the city’s history? Head to the Osaka Castle, a gorgeous 16th century castle in which you can find a museum. Be sure to check out its lovely gardens too.
• If you love thrills, plan to spend a day at the Osaka Universal Studios. Whether you are a Minion, Harry Potter or Jurrasic Park fan, you will love it!

Where to sleep in Osaka?

• Mid-range: A 2-minute walk from an underground station, Sotetsu Fresa Inn Osaka Shinsaibashi is ideally located in the heart of Osaka’s lively districts! Good value for money/location!
• High-end: With an equally great location, the Swissotel Nankai Osaka is a world-class hotel. We especially like the Japanese breakfast with a panoramic view of the city. The 25m swimming pool for sporty people to do some laps in the morning and the spa for the laziest ones!
• Traditional: Discover the Yamatoya Honten Ryokan Osaka, a traditional Ryokan located in the lively Dotonbori district and only 300m from a metro station. The Onsen (Japanese bath) is very pleasant and it is always a change of scenery to put on a Yukata (provided) and spend the night on a futon!

What to do in Himeji?

Quick stop before getting to Hiroshima. Himeji is mainly known for its gorgeous white castle. We think you will like this stop of your 3-week itinerary in Japan. 

• When visiting Himeji, you have to go see its famous UNESCO-listed castle. This castle is one of the last wooden ones in Japan. Explore its 6 stories, walk around its battlements. Don’t forget to take a walk in the Koko Garden. For this must-see, we would recommend doing a guided tour.
• Before leaving, have lunch in one of the restaurants near the castle and admire the view while eating delicious Japanese food. Doesn’t that sound like heaven?
• If you have a little more time, go for a hike up Mount Shosha, at the top you will get to explore an impressive temple that not many travelers know about. Enjoy the calm!

Where to sleep in Himeji?

• Mid-range: 5min walk from the station, the Hotel Monterey Himeji located in the Ekimaecho district, welcomes you in an elegant and friendly atmosphere! Its extras: an attentive staff, impeccable cleanliness and a cosy spa! And to start the day well, you should appreciate the breakfast on the top floor with a view of the whole city.
• High-end: There are no 5-star hotels in Himeji. So in the city centre we recommend a suite at the Daiwa Roynet Hotel Himeji! The hotel has a gym and a laundry and we appreciate the view on the castle (2km), the copious and varied breakfast but especially the impeccable welcome!
• Traditional: Yumoto Ueyama Ryokan is located in the outskirts of the city and is ideal to cut yourself off from the urban madness for a night! Enjoy a hot spring bath, a spa and even a jacuzzi after a day of walking. To leave full of energy, enjoy a Japanese breakfast!

What to do in Hiroshima?

A city with a very intense history, Hiroshima is now the City of Peace. It will be an interesting and emotionally charged stop of this 3-week itinerary in Japan.

• Even if history classes were never your favorite, you will be fascinated by the Peace Memorial Museum. An emotional tour where you will learn about how the city lived the 1945 bombing.
• The park surrounding the Museum is asso a must-see, you will most importantly discover the Genbaku Dome, one of the only buildings that survived the bombing.

Which activities to discover Hiroshima?

• For lunch, instead of heading to the restaurant, participate in a food tour. It’s the best deal to discover the city’s hidden gems while eating as much as you can!
• You like biking? You can do a guided bike tour in Hiroshima! It’s unique way to discover the city.

Where to sleep in Hiroshima?

• Mid-range: Sotetsu Fresa Inn Hiroshima is perfect for staying close to the city centre while enjoying comfort. Close to the train station, it’s perfect for you train travelers! To top it off, the staff is very friendly and will gladly answer your questions, and the breakfast is great!
• High-end: Relax at the Sheraton Grand Hiroshima Hotel with its spacious rooms and subtle, attentive room service. For the active ones, a gym and indoor pool are available. All this comfort at only 1min walk from the station! Booking’s rating speaks for itself!
• Traditional: We don’t have a Ryokan to recommend in Hiroshima… However, if you have one to recommend, don’t hesitate to suggest it in the comments at the bottom of this page! Thanks!

What to do in Miyajima?

Island in the Hiroshima bay, Miyajima is seen as one of the three most beautiful places in Japan. It will surely become one of your favourite stop of this 3-week itinerary in Japan.

• Hikers, you can choose from 3 trails to get to the top of Mount Misen, from 1:30 to 2:30 hour hikes in a stunning setting. Don’t worry if hiking is not really your thing, you can take the cable car up. From the top you will get an astonishing view over the Hiroshima bay and nearby temples.
• Visit the famous Itsukushima-jinja, a UNESCO-listed shinto temple. It is mainly known for its floating torii. And don’t forget you are on a Shinto sacred island, so don’t plan on giving birth or dying there! It’s forbidden!
• Need to relax a little? Clémentine recommends going to an Onsen, a natural hot spring.
• Spend a night on the island and get experience its authentic once the tourists are gone, in the evening. In the morning, you will enjoy the calm even more.

Where to sleep in Miyajima?

• Mid-range & traditional: Ideally located, close to the ferry terminal and the Itsukushima sanctuary, the Yamaichi Bekkan, is a human-size accommodation. It lets you choose between “Japanese tradition” rooms, tatami on the floor and futon bedding, or western rooms (more conventional with parquet floor and western bedding).
• High-end & Traditional: Stay overnight at Itsukusima Iroha, a combination of traditional Ryokan and modern luxury. Wake up to a breathtaking sea view, enjoy an excellent Japanese breakfast, take a trip to the spa and end the day in the sea view onsen!

What to do in Fukuoka?

Largest city in the South of the Japanese archipelago, Fukuoka is a city where you will get to dive deep into the Japanese culture as well as spend some time at the beach. It’s a perfect way to end your 3-week itinerary in Japan. 

• Haven’t shopped enough yet? Head to Canal City, a huge mall of about 250 shops. There are also restaurants, hotels, a game center, a movie theatre and … a canal, because where would the name come from otherwise?
• If to you, vacation means beach, now is the time or never! Go to the Momochi Seaside Park, a leisure complex where you can relax on the sand, play sports or have lunch in one of the restaurants on stilts.
• If you want to get a stunning view of the Hakata Bay, go to the top of the Fukuoka Tower. Also know for its “Lover’s sanctuary” where lovers can walk under a heart shaped flower arch and go attach a lock on a fence (just like in Paris !).
• Do not leave the country without eating a traditionnel ramen. Here in Fukuoka, the recipe uses pork and is called Hakata rameni.

Where to sleep in Fukuoka?

• On a budget: Ideally located in Fukuoka’s Hakata Ward, 100m from an underground station and just above the station, we recommend Nine hours Nakasukawabata Station for an original futuristic experience. Sleep in capsules as if you were on board of the Mandator IV in Star Wars, with communal sanitary facilities. To top it off :  it has a  good overall rating of 8.7/10 on Booking!
• Mid-range: Take a break at the Nishitetsu Inn Fukuoka, located 3min walk from a metro station, overlooking the Naka River, all in the lively Tenjin district. A perfect comfort, a view on the city during your breakfast on the top floor and a staff attentive to your every request!
• High-end: The Grand Hyatt Fukuoka is located in the Canal City Hakata complex, 5 minutes from the station. Stay in a spacious room with the comfort of a 5-star hotel. Treat yourself to a massage and a moment of relaxation in the jacuzzi or simply relax in your bathtub in the comfortable bathroom. The hotel also offers a gym and a swimming pool for those who like to be active!

Learn more about your trip to Japan…

• Check out all the practical informations you need to know about the country, by clicking here.
• To book a flight at the best price, we recommend this website.
• You are looking for a great travel insurance for your 3-week itinerary in Japan? We recommend this one!

Do not hesitate to share your trip with us, we can’t wait to hear all about your adventures!

If you have more information, good deals, or any advice to share about this itinerary, leave a comment below! Our team will be happy to hear about your experiences!