Exploring Northern Japan: 7-Day JR Pass / 9-Day Itinerary: Tokyo to Sapporo
Maximize your 7-day JR Pass with this thoughtfully planned 9-day itinerary. Days 1 and 9 don’t require the pass, allowing you to save it for the most travel-intensive days.
JR PASS 7 DAYSHOKKAIDOTOKYOEASTERN JAPANNATURE GETAWAYSHISTORICAL SITE
1/7/20252 min read
Day 1: Tokyo – Explore the Capital
Start your journey in Tokyo, discovering iconic landmarks like Senso-ji Temple, Shibuya Crossing, and Akihabara. Use local transportation to navigate the city before the JR Pass is activated.
Day 2: Tokyo to Sendai – Activate Your JR Pass
Begin your JR Pass journey with a Shinkansen ride to Sendai. Visit Zuihoden Mausoleum, stroll along Jozenji-dori Avenue, and explore the Aoba Castle ruins. Enjoy Sendai’s famous gyutan (grilled beef tongue) for dinner.
Day 3: Day Trip to Yamadera – Spiritual Serenity
Take a local train from Sendai to Yamadera. Climb the 1,000 stone steps to reach Risshakuji Temple and soak in the stunning views of the valley. Return to Sendai for some free time to relax or explore more of the city.
Day 4: Sendai to Hiraizumi – Discover Chuson-ji Temple
Travel to Ichinoseki via Shinkansen and then take a short local train to Hiraizumi. Visit Chuson-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and admire its Golden Hall (Konjikido). Explore Motsu-ji Temple’s serene garden before heading back to Sendai for the night.
Day 5: Sendai to Hakodate – Gateway to Hokkaido
Take the Shinkansen through the Seikan Tunnel to Hakodate. Visit the star-shaped Goryokaku Fort, explore the historic Motomachi district, and enjoy shopping at the Red Brick Warehouses. End your day with the famous night view from Mount Hakodate.
Day 6: Hakodate – Relax and Explore More
Spend a full day in Hakodate. Start your morning at the Hakodate Morning Market to enjoy fresh seafood, such as donburi (rice bowls). Visit the Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden, or take a stroll along the scenic waterfront. Enjoy the slower pace of this charming city.
Day 7: Hakodate to Sapporo – Hokkaido’s Capital
Take a train to Sapporo, the vibrant capital of Hokkaido. Upon arrival, explore Odori Park, Sapporo Clock Tower, and the Hokkaido Government Office. End your day with a warm bowl of miso ramen at Ramen Alley.
Day 8: Sapporo – Day Trip to Otaru or Explore Further
Visit Otaru, a picturesque harbor town known for its historic canals, music box shops, and fresh seafood. Alternatively, spend the day exploring more of Sapporo, such as the Sapporo Beer Museum or Shiroi Koibito Park.
Day 9: Fly Back to Tokyo
Conclude your journey with a flight from Sapporo’s New Chitose Airport back to Tokyo. Use your remaining time for last-minute shopping or sightseeing in the capital before heading home.
Want to learn more about the JR Pass? Visit jrpass.com for detailed information!