5-Day Takayama-Hokuriku Area Tourist Pass Itinerary: From Nagoya to Osaka

Day 1: Nagoya to Takayama

Activate your JR Takayama-Hokuriku Area Tourist Pass and begin your adventure in Nagoya, a modern hub filled with culture and great food. Before boarding the JR Limited Express Hida train, a must for trains in Japan enthusiasts, try Nagoya’s famous Hitsumabushi (grilled eel over rice).

Once you arrive in Takayama, immerse yourself in the Edo-period charm of Sanmachi Suji, visit the Takayama Jinya, and stroll through the Miyagawa Morning Market. Takayama is a peaceful and family-friendly stop, making it a great choice for Japan with kids. Don’t miss tasting Hida beef, one of the most famous delicacies in central Japan.

Day 2: Takayama to Shirakawa-go

Next, use your pass for a scenic bus ride to Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that should be on everyone’s Japan bucket list. The traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses, surrounded by mountains, showcase the timeless beauty of rural Japan.

Enjoy a local favorite, Hoba Miso—grilled miso and vegetables on a magnolia leaf—and try gohei mochi, a sweet and savory treat perfect for kids and adults alike. For travelers interested in travel planning for Japanese trains, Shirakawa-go is a great detour connected smoothly via JR bus routes.

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Day 3: Shirakawa-go to Kanazawa

Continue your Japan train travel adventure to Kanazawa, a city that beautifully balances tradition and art. Visit Kenrokuen Garden, one of the top Kyoto tourist attractions outside of Kyoto itself, and the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art. The historic Higashi Chaya District offers a glimpse of old Japan, perfect for photography lovers.

Try Kaisen-don, a seafood rice bowl featuring fresh catches from the Sea of Japan, and Jibuni, a local duck stew. Kanazawa’s mix of culture, food, and architecture makes it one of the most rewarding Japan travel destinations by train.

Day 4: Kanazawa to Kyoto

Board the Thunderbird Limited Express to Kyoto, a city that belongs on every Japan bucket list. Known for its timeless charm, Kyoto is filled with must-see Kyoto tourist attractions. Explore Fushimi Inari Shrine, with its endless torii gates, and take a peaceful walk through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) for an unforgettable view.

For food lovers, enjoy Kyoto-style Kaiseki or Yudofu (tofu hot pot). Kyoto is also perfect for Japan with kids, offering cultural experiences that engage the whole family. It’s an essential stop for those travel planning for Japanese trains, as it connects easily to Osaka and other major hubs.

Day 5: Kyoto to Osaka

Take a short train ride to Osaka, Japan’s food capital. Visit Osaka Castle, explore Shinsekai, and dive into the lively Dotonbori district. Osaka’s street food—Takoyaki and Okonomiyaki—is perfect for families and food lovers alike.

The train journey from Kyoto to Osaka is a great example of how efficient and enjoyable trains in Japan can be. It’s an excellent finale for your Japan train travel adventure.

Final Thoughts

The Takayama-Hokuriku Area Tourist Pass offers an incredible journey through historical towns, stunning landscapes, and delicious regional cuisine. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, nature lover, or foodie, this 5-day itinerary is a fantastic way to explore central Japan affordably and efficiently.

Want to learn more about the JR Regional Pass? Visit jrpass.com for detailed information!