Exploring Japan By Rail: Best Two Week Train Itinerary

Enjoy the ultimate two-week Japan itinerary using the Japan Rail Pass – from Tokyo to Kyoto, onsens to snow monkeys, here’s how to see it all the smart way.

One of the very best ways to travel through Japan is by rail, which offers travellers a unique, affordable and rewarding travel experience. With one of the most efficient, scenic, and comfortable railway systems in the world, it feels as if Japan was practically made for rail travel. The Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) is an incredible option for anyone planning to explore multiple regions in Japan. It grants unlimited travel on most JR trains, including the majority of Shinkansen bullet trains (except Nozomi and Mizuho services), for a set period.

In this 14-day itinerary, we’ll show you how to make the most of your Japan Rail Pass and visit some of the country’s most iconic destinations along the way. This itinerary covers the most vibrant and interesting cities, from Tokyo’s bustling energy to Kyoto’s peaceful temples, Hakone’s relaxing onsens, and even the cute deer of Nara. Each destination is accessible by train, allowing you to travel easily and seamlessly.

This article has been written by Japan travel experts in partnership with the Japan Rail Pass

Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo

Arrive in Tokyo and activate your Japan Rail Pass at the airport or a major station. From Narita Airport, take the Narita Express to Tokyo Station, which takes about 60 minutes. If you’re flying into Haneda Airport, take the Tokyo Monorail to Hamamatsucho Station, then transfer to the JR Yamanote Line – the total journey takes around 30 to 40 minutes. Once you arrive in central Tokyo, check into your hotel and relax after your journey. If time allows, take a short stroll around the local area to get your bearings.

Tokyo hotel recommendations

Shinjuku Granbell Hotel – A stylish, budget-friendly base in the heart of Tokyo’s nightlife and dining.

The Peninsula Tokyo – A luxury stay with stunning views over the Imperial Palace gardens.

Day 2: Shibuya and Shinjukun (Tokyo)

Start your Tokyo adventure in Shibuya, where you can experience the famous Shibuya Crossing and enjoy the panoramic views from Shibuya Sky. In the afternoon, head to Shinjuku, where you can explore department stores, stroll through Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, and enjoy dinner at a local izakaya. Use the JR Yamanote Line to travel easily between neighbourhoods.

Day 3: Asakusa and Omotesando (Tokyo)

Spend the morning in Asakusa, visiting Senso-ji Temple and browsing the traditional shops along Nakamise-dori. In the afternoon, take the JR Chuo Line to Harajuku Station and walk to Omotesando, a stylish district known for its designer boutiques and sleek architecture. Enjoy a relaxing café stop or visit nearby Meiji Shrine.

Day 4: Day Trip to Kawagoe

Take a day trip to Kawagoe, known as “Little Edo” for its preserved historical streets and merchant houses. Take the JR Saikyo Line from Shinjuku to Kawagoe, which takes about 60 minutes. Explore the Toki no Kane bell tower, Kitain Temple, and the sweet shops of Kashiya Yokocho. Return to Tokyo in the evening.

Day 5: Day Trip to Nagano

Take a 90-minute train ride on the Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Nagano. Spend the day exploring Zenko-ji Temple and strolling its charming temple town streets. If it’s winter, head to Jigokudani Monkey Park to see the snow monkeys soaking in hot springs. Return to Tokyo in the evening via Shinkansen.

Day 6: Travel to Hakone

Depart Tokyo and take the Tokaido Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Odawara Station (approximately 35 minutes). From Odawara, transfer to local Hakone transport (not covered by the JR Pass, such as the Hakone Tozan Railway) to reach your ryokan. In the afternoon, enjoy an onsen bath and traditional kaiseki dinner.

Hakone hotel recommendations

Yumoto Fujiya Hotel – Conveniently located near Hakone-Yumoto Station with public baths and Japanese-style rooms.

Gora Kadan – A luxurious ryokan experience with private onsens and seasonal kaiseki dinners.

Day 7: Explore Hakone

Spend the day exploring Hakone. Ride the Hakone Ropeway over Ōwakudani’s volcanic valley and enjoy views of Mount Fuji. Then take a cruise across Lake Ashi, visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum, and soak your feet in the hot spring foot baths. Return to your ryokan for another relaxing evening.

Day 8: Travel to Osaka

Travel by rail from Odawara to Osaka by Tokaido Shinkansen, which takes around 2.5 to 3 hours. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and explore the vibrant Dotonbori area. Walk along the canal, sample street food like takoyaki and okonomiyaki, and see the famous Glico running man sign.

Day 9: Explore Osaka

Spend the day exploring Osaka further. Visit Osaka Castle, wander around Umeda and take in the views from the Umeda Sky Building. In the evening, explore America-mura, known for its creative vibe, street art, and vintage shopping.

Osaka hotel recommendations

Hotel Monterey Grasmere Osaka – Central and stylish, close to Dotonbori and Namba Station.

The St. Regis Osaka – A luxurious 5 star option with impeccable service and views along Midosuji Avenue.

Day 10: Day Trip to Nara

Take a day trip to Nara, just 45 minutes from Osaka via the JR Yamatoji Line or Kintetsu Nara Line. Visit Nara Park to see the friendly deer and explore Todai-ji Temple and Kasuga Taisha Shrine. Return to Osaka in the evening.

Day 11: Day Trip to Hiroshima (Optional)

If you’re up for a longer day trip, take the Sakura Shinkansen from Shin-Osaka Station to Hiroshima, which takes about 90 minutes. Visit the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, and take a ferry (included in the JR Pass) to Miyajima Island to see the famous floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine. Return to Osaka in the evening.

Day 12: Travel to Kyoto

Take the JR Special Rapid Service or Shinkansen from Osaka to Kyoto, which takes just 30 minutes. Once in Kyoto, check in and explore Gion, the city’s historic geisha district. Walk along its lantern-lit alleys and perhaps catch a glimpse of a maiko in the early evening.

Kyoto hotel recommendations

Hotel Gracery Kyoto Sanjo – A well-located and modern mid-range option near Nishiki Market.

Sowaka – A beautifully renovated ryokan in Gion blending tradition with comfort and style.

Day 13: Explore Kyoto

Spend the day exploring Kyoto’s most famous sights. Begin at Kiyomizu-dera Temple, then walk the Philosopher’s Path and visit Nanzen-ji. In the afternoon, head to Arashiyama to see the bamboo grove and visit Tenryu-ji Temple. Consider dining in Pontocho for a scenic meal by the river.

Day 14: Day Trip to Uji or Himeji

Choose a final day trip depending on your interests;

• For tea lovers, visit Uji (30 minutes from Kyoto via JR Nara Line) to explore its matcha shops and Byodo-in Temple.
• Alternatively, head to Himeji (1 hour by Shinkansen) to see Himeji Castle, one of Japan’s few remaining original castles. Return to Kyoto for your final night in Japan.

Japan Rail Pass Options and Prices

• 7-Day Pass – ¥50,000 ($361 or £267 approximately)
• 14-Day Pass – ¥80,000 ($578 or £428 approximately)
• 21-Day Pass – ¥100,000 ($723 or £535 approximately)
  
  Book your Japan Rail Pass at jrailpass.com.
  
  (Prices as of June 2025. Children ages 6–11 are half price.)

Where the Japan Rail Pass is valid

• JR Group trains (local, rapid, express, and Shinkansen)
• Tokyo’s JR Yamanote Line and Osaka’s Loop Line
• Some JR buses and ferries (like the ferry to Miyajima)

Top Tips for using the Japan Rail Pass

• Reserve seats for free at any JR ticket office or kiosk
• Activation can be done at major airports or stations – you will need your passport
• The pass must be purchased before arriving in Japan (online or through authorised agents)

Last Words

The Japan Rail Pass is an incredible travel tool to help you design your dream travel experience across Japan. If your trip includes at least two or three long-distance Shinkansen journeys, the pass pays for itself quickly. It also adds flexibility and peace of mind – just hop on the next train, with no worries about booking tickets or extra costs.

Is Japan on your travel bucket list? We’d love to know the places you’d most love to see, and whether you’d explore Japan by rail. Leave a community comment in the box below.

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