Explore the best of Western Japan with this 7-day itinerary, maximizing the 5-Day JR Kansai-Hiroshima Area Pass.
Starting in Kyoto and ending in Hiroshima, this journey takes you through the rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant food culture of Nara, Osaka, Kobe, Himeji, Okayama, and Kurashiki. Visit Kyoto’s iconic shrines, feed the friendly deer in Nara, and experience Osaka’s street food scene before heading to Kobe for world-famous beef. Discover Japan’s most beautiful castle in Himeji, wander through Okayama’s scenic gardens, and explore Kurashiki’s charming canal district. Finally, reflect on history at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and marvel at the floating torii gate of Miyajima Island. Along the way, indulge in regional specialties like takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and anago meshi, making this an unforgettable adventure filled with culture, history, and delicious food—all while taking advantage of Japan’s world-class rail system.
JR REGIONAL PASSKYOTOWESTERN JAPANOSAKAFOOD
2/25/20253 min read
This 7-day itinerary efficiently covers all destinations while taking full advantage of the 5-Day Kansai-Hiroshima Area Pass for cost-effective travel.
Day 1: Kyoto (Start of Trip, No JR Pass Used)
Highlights:
Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kiyomizu-dera, Gion, Pontocho Alley
What to Eat in Kyoto:
Yudofu (Tofu Hot Pot) – Try at Nanzenji area or Okutan.
Matcha Sweets – Try matcha parfait at Tsujiri or Nakamura Tokichi.
Yakitori & Kyoto-style Kaiseki – Try Pontocho Alley restaurants.
Dinner Recommendation: Torisei (Fushimi) for yakitori & sake or Gion Kappa for izakaya-style dining.
Day 2: Nara & Osaka (JR Pass Day 1)
Highlights:
Todai-ji Temple, Nara Park (Deer), Osaka Castle, Dotonbori
What to Eat in Nara:
Kakinoha Sushi – Sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves (Sushi Harimaya).
Mitarashi Dango – Soy-glazed rice dumplings near Nara Park.
What to Eat in Osaka:
Takoyaki – Must-try octopus balls (Kukuru or Creo-ru in Dotonbori).
Okonomiyaki – Japanese savory pancake (Chibo or Mizuno).
Kitsune Udon – Thick udon with sweet fried tofu (Dotonbori Imai).
Dinner Recommendation: Street food hopping in Dotonbori or visit Harijyu for wagyu beef sukiyaki.
Stay overnight in Osaka.
Day 3: Kobe & Himeji (JR Pass Day 2)
Highlights:
Kobe Harborland, Ikuta Shrine, Himeji Castle
What to Eat in Kobe:
Kobe Beef – Try at Wakkoqu, Mouriya, or Steakland for premium wagyu.
Kobe Beef Croquettes – Hot and crispy street food (Takatsuki).
Akashiyaki – A softer version of takoyaki, dipped in broth (Hakurakuten).
What to Eat in Himeji:
Anago Meshi – Grilled sea eel over rice (Eel Restaurant Unasho).
Himeji Oden – Fish cakes in a soy-based broth with ginger soy sauce.
Dinner Recommendation: Try a local izakaya near Himeji Station or return to Osaka for ramen (Ichiran or Ippudo).
Stay overnight in Osaka or Himeji.
Day 4: Okayama & Kurashiki (JR Pass Day 3)
Highlights:
Korakuen Garden, Okayama Castle, Kurashiki Bikan Quarter
What to Eat in Okayama:
Kibi Dango – Famous peach-flavored mochi (found at any Okayama souvenir shop).
Barazushi – Scattered-style sushi with seafood and vegetables.
Tonkotsu Shoyu Ramen – A mix of pork bone and soy sauce broth (Daruma Ramen).
What to Eat in Kurashiki:
Kurashiki Fruit Sandwiches – Soft bread with fresh fruits and cream.
Kurashiki White Sake – A sweet local sake (try at Tsurugata or Oimatsu).
Dinner Recommendation: Local izakaya near Okayama Station or enjoy Okayama-style sushi at Kidoairaku.
Stay overnight in Hiroshima.
Day 5: Hiroshima & Miyajima (JR Pass Day 4)
Highlights:
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, Atomic Bomb Dome, Miyajima (Itsukushima Shrine, Floating Torii Gate)
What to Eat in Hiroshima:
Hiroshima-Style Okonomiyaki – Layered with noodles (Nagata-ya or Mitchan Sohonten).
Hiroshima Oysters – Best grilled or fried (Ekohiiki or Kanawa).
What to Eat in Miyajima:
Momiji Manju – Maple-shaped cake with sweet red bean filling.
Anago Meshi – Grilled conger eel over rice (Ueno is famous).
Dinner Recommendation: Okonomimura (Okonomiyaki food village) for multiple Hiroshima-style pancake stalls.
Stay overnight in Hiroshima.
Day 6: Hiroshima (JR Pass Day 5)
Highlights:
Shukkeien Garden, Mitaki-dera Temple, Hondori Shopping Street, Iwakuni (optional)
What to Eat in Hiroshima:
Tsukemen (Hiroshima-style) – Spicy dipping noodles (Bakudanya).
Kure Navy Curry – A historical dish from Hiroshima’s naval base.
Hiroshima Sake – Visit Kamotsuru Sake Brewery in Saijo.
Dinner Recommendation: Local izakaya near Hiroshima Station or a final okonomiyaki feast.
Stay overnight in Hiroshima.
Day 7: Hiroshima (End of Trip)
Morning Suggestions:
Hiroshima breakfast set (grilled fish, miso soup, rice at a local ryokan-style café).
Last-minute omiyage (souvenirs) – Get Hiroshima Momiji Manju, sake, or regional snacks.
What to Eat Before Leaving:
Ramen – Try Shiru-Nashi Tantanmen (soupless spicy sesame noodles).
Matcha Soft Serve – Try in Hiroshima Station before departure.
(Since the JR Pass is no longer active, use an IC card or individual tickets.)
Extra tips
Take advantage of the free bicycle hire service “Ekirin-kun”, available at select JR stations, to explore cities like Okayama, Himeji, and Nara at your own pace. Cycling offers a convenient and eco-friendly way to see castle towns, scenic parks, and historic districts, making your journey even more enjoyable.
Want to learn more about the JR Regional Pass? Visit jrpass.com for detailed information!
