From buzzing Tokyo via Hakone, Kyoto and Osaka to Kobe – a train journey that shows you the culinary variety of Japan.
The stages of your journey in detail
Tokyo: Japan's global metropolis
The journey begins in Tokyo, the craziest capital in the world. Coming from the West, the lively tangle of crowds, countless neon signs and incomprehensible characters seems completely chaotic at first, almost intimidating. But then you realise it's actually really easy to find your way around – and by then, Tokyo has already cast its spell on you.
There are plenty of sights, such as the world's most famous crossing – Shibuya, the wonderful view from the Skytree or the Imperial Palace.
If you're after a meal with a bit of action, head to Zauo, where you're given a fishing rod and bait to catch your own dinner. Guests can catch anything from sharks to red snapper to mackerel.
Tokyo Station Hakone-Yumoto Station
Recommended accommodation:
01
1:50 hours
Hakone: Time for hot springs
From Tokyo you take the train to Hakone. The mountain town is best known for its hot springs and its breathtaking view of Mount Fuji.
The Hakone Ropeway is the cable car that stops at Ōwakudani, a traditional and relaxing hot spring area. The cable car keeps climbing and offers great views of green mountains, valleys and Lake Ashi. This crater lake has deep blue water, and from its shore the eternally snow-capped peak of Mount Fuji appears in the distance.
An alternative to a traditional hot spring is a visit to the Yunessun Spa Resort, where you can bathe in coffee, sake, red wine and ramen broth!
Hakone-Yumoto Station Kyoto Station
Kyoto: Japanese culture up close
Kyoto is an absolute highlight of any trip to Japan. Culturally, Kyoto has more to offer than almost any other city. The former capital lies on the island of Honshu and is known for its many temples, beautiful gardens, impressive imperial palaces, traditional wooden ryokan and Shinto shrines.
Special traditions began here in Kyoto and are still alive today – such as kaiseki cuisine, Japan's haute cuisine. Click here to find out more about its significance.
Be sure to visit the 700-year-old Nishiki Market, where over 100 stalls sell street food, and if you need a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, head to the Sagano Bamboo Forest.
Kyoto Station Osaka Station
Osaka: Culinary delights
This large port city is known as the country's economic centre, for its vibrant, dazzling nightlife and – believe it or not – for its countless and varied food stalls.
Osaka is often called "the nation's kitchen". Here you'll find culinary delights and Japanese "fast food" for every budget. It's worth spending a night or two exploring the city. If you're not claustrophobic, there are countless stylish capsule hotels – and of course regular hotels and hostels too.
An important landmark you really shouldn't miss is Osaka Castle in the centre of the city. It may not look like a traditional castle, but it's still very impressive.
If you're lucky enough to be in the city in March, the annual Sumo Spring Grand Tournament takes place – the perfect opportunity to learn more about the ancient sport of sumo wrestling.
Osaka Station Sannomiya Station (Kobe)
Recommended accommodation:
04
0:28 hours
Kobe: The best beef in the world
Kobe lies in Japan's Hyogo Prefecture and is world-famous for its steaks. Kobe beef is considered the best steak in the world. Thanks to its incredibly fine marbling of fat within the muscle, Kobe beef melts in your mouth.
Of course, Kobe has even more to offer. The red Port Tower in the city's harbour, the Kawasaki World Museum and Kobe's western quarter, Kitano-cho, are just some of the sights to see.
Take a trip to the Nunobiki Falls with the Miharashi Observation Deck and ride the cable car up Mount Rokko, the highest mountain in the area.
Recommended accommodation:
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Train connections on this Japan itinerary
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From > To
Duration (h)
Changes
Transport
Tokyo to Hakone
1:50
Direct
Shinkansen
Hakone to Kyoto
3:52
1
Shinkansen
Kyoto to Osaka
0:28
Direct
Shinkansen
Osaka to Kobe
0:19
Direct
Shinkansen
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