Central Japan Grand Circle – 8-Day Train Itinerary (Best with a 7-Day JR Pass)

Day 1: Tokyo – Welcome to Japan’s Capital

Start your adventure in Tokyo, Japan’s electrifying capital. Visit historic Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, see the iconic Shibuya Crossing, and enjoy the dazzling nightlife in Shinjuku. Tokyo blends ultra-modern experiences with timeless tradition.

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Highlight Experiences

• Senso-ji Temple

• Shibuya Crossing

• Harajuku & Meiji Shrine

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

Day 2: Tokyo → Nagano → Kanazawa

Your 7-Day JR Pass officially begins! Board the Hokuriku Shinkansen for Nagano and explore Zenko-ji Temple, one of Japan’s oldest Buddhist temples. Continue by Shinkansen to Kanazawa, known for its well-preserved Edo-era districts and cultural attractions. Train Travel Japan

➡️ Find the hotel deal in Kanazawa — Book Kanazawa hotels here

Highlights

• Zenko-ji Temple (Nagano)

• Train ride to Kanazawa

Day 3: Kanazawa – Culture & Gardens

Enjoy a full day in Kanazawa. Visit Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s Three Great Gardens, stroll the Higashi Chaya Tea District, and sample fresh seafood at Omicho Market. Train Travel Japan

Day 4: Kanazawa → Kyoto – Historic Capital

Take the Limited Express Thunderbird to Kyoto, home to serene temples, traditional tea houses, and beautiful garden spaces. In the afternoon, explore the historic Gion District and end your day overlooking the city from Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Train Travel Japan

➡️ Find the hotel deal in Kyoto — Book Kyoto hotels here

Day 5: Kyoto – Arashiyama & Fushimi Inari Taisha

A full day to explore Kyoto’s highlights:

• Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

• Togetsukyo Bridge

• Fushimi Inari Shrine with its thousands of torii gates

Day 7: Kyoto → Nara → Osaka – Deer Park & Neon Lights

Take a day trip to Nara, visit Todai-ji Temple and wander through Nara Park with its friendly deer. In the afternoon, head to Osaka to explore the neon-lit Dotonbori district—famous for street food and nightlife. Train Travel Japan

➡️ Find the hotel deal in Osaka — Book Osaka hotels here

Day 8: Osaka → Tokyo – Urban Exploration & Shinkansen Return

Spend your final Japan morning in Osaka with visits to Osaka Castle and Kuromon Ichiba Market. Later, take the Tokaido Shinkansen back to Tokyo to wrap up the journey.

Tips for Travelling Central Japan

🎫 Best JR Pass Usage

Activate your 7-Day JR Pass on Day 2 and ride through Day 8 to make the most of it. Reserve seats for long shinkansen and limited express trains in advance for peace of mind. Train Travel Japan

🧳 Packing Essentials

Comfortable walking shoes, a portable Wi-Fi device, and a daypack for sightseeing make long days easier. Train Travel Japan

🌸 Best Seasons

Spring (cherry blossoms) and autumn (fall colors) offer the most scenic views across Central Japan.