This 15-day Japan train itinerary travels from Sapporo in Hokkaido all the way south to Fukuoka in Kyushu, covering an extraordinary variety of cities, landscapes and historic destinations along the way.
The journey combines Hokkaido, Tohoku, Tokyo, Central Japan, Kansai, Hiroshima and Fukuoka using Japan’s long-distance rail network. It is an ambitious trip, but it is designed so that the major travel days connect naturally from north to south.
15-Day Route at a Glance
Sapporo → Otaru → Hakodate → Sendai → Matsushima → Tokyo → Hikone → Kyoto → Nara → Osaka → Himeji → Hiroshima → Miyajima → Fukuoka
This is a fast-paced itinerary for travelers who want to experience a large cross-section of Japan in one trip. If you prefer slower travel, consider extending the route to 18–21 days.
15-Day Japan North-to-South Itinerary Overview
| Day | Route | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Sapporo | Sapporo |
| Day 2 | Otaru day trip | Sapporo |
| Day 3 | Sapporo → Hakodate | Hakodate |
| Day 4 | Hakodate → Sendai | Sendai |
| Day 5 | Matsushima day trip | Sendai |
| Day 6 | Sendai → Tokyo | Tokyo |
| Day 7 | Tokyo | Tokyo |
| Day 8 | Tokyo → Hikone → Kyoto | Kyoto |
| Day 9 | Kyoto | Kyoto |
| Day 10 | Kyoto | Kyoto |
| Day 11 | Kyoto → Nara → Osaka | Osaka |
| Day 12 | Osaka | Osaka |
| Day 13 | Osaka → Himeji → Hiroshima | Hiroshima |
| Day 14 | Hiroshima → Miyajima → Fukuoka | Fukuoka |
| Day 15 | Fukuoka | Fukuoka or departure |
Expect Several Long Travel Days
This itinerary covers an enormous distance. Days 4, 8 and 14 in particular involve sightseeing combined with substantial rail travel, so packing light and reserving seats in advance will make the journey much easier.
Important Rail Update for This Itinerary
Sapporo to Hakodate Is Not a Shinkansen Journey
The Hokkaido Shinkansen does not currently extend to Sapporo. On Day 3, travel from Sapporo to Hakodate on the Limited Express Hokuto.
JR Hokkaido limited express trains now operate with reserved seating only, so obtain a reserved-seat ticket before boarding.
The Hokkaido Shinkansen becomes useful after Hakodate. To continue south toward Tohoku, travel from central Hakodate to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto and connect to the Hokkaido/Tohoku Shinkansen toward Sendai.
Is a 14-Day JR Pass Worth It for This Itinerary?
This is one of the stronger itineraries for comparing a nationwide Japan Rail Pass because it includes several expensive long-distance journeys across multiple regions of Japan.
The most useful feature of the 14-day pass for this particular route is that Day 2 through Day 15 is exactly 14 consecutive days.
Major Rail Journeys on This Route
- Sapporo → Otaru → Sapporo
- Sapporo → Hakodate
- Hakodate → Sendai
- Sendai → Tokyo
- Tokyo → Hikone → Kyoto
- Kyoto → Nara → Osaka
- Osaka → Himeji → Hiroshima
- Hiroshima → Miyajima
- Hiroshima → Fukuoka
Recommended Activation: Day 2
Use individual fares or an IC card for local sightseeing in Sapporo on Day 1, then activate the 14-Day Japan Rail Pass on Day 2 for your Otaru day trip.
Day 2 through Day 15 is exactly 14 consecutive days, so the pass remains valid through every remaining day of the itinerary, including the final journey to Fukuoka.
Although the Sapporo–Otaru trip itself is relatively inexpensive, there is no advantage to waiting until Day 3 if you already plan to use a 14-day pass for this exact itinerary.
Current 14-Day Japan Rail Pass Price
The current standard adult price for a 14-Day Ordinary Japan Rail Pass is ¥80,000 when purchased through the official online service.
From October 1, 2026, the price through overseas JR-designated sales agents increases to ¥84,000.
Because prices and sales channels can change, always check the current conditions before purchasing.
NOZOMI and MIZUHO Require an Extra Ticket
Japan Rail Pass holders can use eligible Shinkansen services throughout this itinerary.
If you want to ride a NOZOMI or MIZUHO train, however, you must purchase the separate special ticket available specifically to Japan Rail Pass holders.
If you do not want to pay the additional charge, use eligible services such as HIKARI, KODAMA, SAKURA or TSUBAME where appropriate.
Compare Before You Buy
Even though the 14-day pass fits the timing of this itinerary extremely well, that does not automatically mean it will be the cheapest option for every traveler.
Compare the current pass price with individual tickets for your exact travel dates. A combination of regional passes and separate tickets can sometimes offer better value, particularly if you modify the route.
Day 1: Sapporo
Begin your north-to-south journey in Sapporo. Use the first day to settle in and explore Hokkaido’s largest city before the long-distance rail travel begins.
Suggested Sapporo Highlights
- Odori Park
- Sapporo Clock Tower
- Nijo Market
- Tanukikoji Shopping Street
- Susukino in the evening
Don’t Activate the JR Pass Yet
Most sightseeing today involves local transportation, so an IC card or individual fares are more practical. Save the 14-Day JR Pass for the expensive intercity journeys beginning on Day 3.
Overnight: Sapporo
Day 2: Otaru Day Trip from Sapporo
Take an easy day trip to Otaru, a historic port city known for its canal, preserved warehouses, glassware, sweets and seafood.
Suggested Otaru Highlights
- Otaru Canal
- Sakaimachi Street
- Historic warehouse district
- Otaru Music Box Museum
- Local sushi and seafood
JR Pass Day 1
Activate your 14-Day Japan Rail Pass today and use it for the JR journey between Sapporo and Otaru.
This begins 14 consecutive days of validity, keeping the pass active through Day 15 in Fukuoka.
Return to Sapporo in the afternoon or evening and prepare for the longer journey to Hakodate the following morning.
Overnight: Sapporo
Day 3: Sapporo to Hakodate
Activate your 14-Day JR Pass and travel south from Sapporo to Hakodate on the Limited Express Hokuto.
Suggested Hakodate Afternoon & Evening
- Kanemori Red Brick Warehouses
- Hakodate Bay Area
- Motomachi historic district
- Mount Hakodate after sunset, if the weather is clear
JR Pass Day 2: Reserve Your Seat
Limited Express Hokuto runs between Sapporo and Hakodate and now operates with reserved seating only. Obtain a reserved-seat ticket before boarding.
Explore our guide to Hokkaido scenic and sightseeing trains →
This is your first major southbound journey, and from this point onward the itinerary continues progressively toward Tohoku, Tokyo, Kansai, Hiroshima and Kyushu.
Overnight: Hakodate
Day 4: Hakodate to Sendai
Leave Hakodate and continue south into Tohoku. First travel from central Hakodate to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto, then connect to the Hokkaido/Tohoku Shinkansen toward Sendai.
Suggested Travel Plan
- Travel from Hakodate Station to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto
- Connect to a southbound Shinkansen
- Continue through northern Tohoku to Sendai
- Check in and enjoy a relaxed evening in Sendai
JR Pass Day 3
This is one of the most valuable long-distance days on the itinerary. The Hokkaido/Tohoku Shinkansen uses reserved seating, so reserve your seat before travel.
If you arrive with enough time, explore the area around Sendai Station and try local specialties such as gyutan.
Overnight: Sendai
Day 5: Matsushima Day Trip from Sendai
Take a day trip from Sendai to Matsushima, famous for its pine-covered islands and traditionally regarded as one of Japan’s great scenic views.
Suggested Matsushima Highlights
- Zuigan-ji Temple
- Godaido Temple
- Fukuurajima Island
- Matsushima Bay waterfront
- A sightseeing cruise, if it interests you
Train Travel Tip
For the main sightseeing area, Matsushima-Kaigan Station on the JR Senseki Line is generally the most convenient station to use.
Matsushima works well as a relaxed day trip, so there is no need to rush back to Sendai. Return in the late afternoon or evening.
Overnight: Sendai
Day 6: Sendai to Tokyo
Leave Sendai and travel south to Tokyo on the Tohoku Shinkansen. The journey is fast and straightforward, giving you plenty of time to explore Tokyo after arrival.
Suggested Tokyo Afternoon & Evening
- Tokyo Station and Marunouchi
- Asakusa
- Shibuya
- Shinjuku in the evening
JR Pass Day 5
Direct Hayabusa services are among the fastest options between Sendai and Tokyo. Hayabusa uses reserved seating, so obtain a seat reservation before boarding.
You have two nights in Tokyo on this itinerary, so there is no need to fit all of the city’s major sights into your arrival day.
Overnight: Tokyo
Day 7: Tokyo
Spend a full day exploring Tokyo before continuing west toward Kansai. With only one full day, it is best to group nearby neighborhoods rather than crossing the city repeatedly.
Suggested Tokyo Highlights
- Asakusa and Senso-ji
- Ueno or Akihabara
- Harajuku and Omotesando
- Shibuya
- Shinjuku in the evening
JR Pass Day 6
The nationwide JR Pass covers eligible JR lines in Tokyo, such as the Yamanote Line, but it does not cover Tokyo Metro, Toei Subway or most private railways. An IC card is still useful.
Overnight: Tokyo
Day 8: Tokyo to Hikone to Kyoto
Leave Tokyo in the morning and travel west toward Hikone before continuing to Kyoto. This is one of the busier days of the itinerary, but Hikone makes a rewarding stop for travelers interested in castles and traditional Japanese history.
Suggested Hikone Highlights
- Hikone Castle
- Genkyuen Garden
- Castle Road
- Views toward Lake Biwa
JR Pass Day 7
Travel from Tokyo toward the Maibara area, then continue to Hikone by eligible JR conventional train. After sightseeing, continue from Hikone to Kyoto on the JR Biwako Line.
If you are traveling with large luggage, consider forwarding it directly from Tokyo to Kyoto or using station lockers while visiting Hikone.
Overnight: Kyoto
Day 9: Kyoto
Spend a full day exploring Kyoto. Since the city has many major sights spread across different areas, choose a focused route rather than trying to visit everything in one day.
Suggested Kyoto Highlights
- Fushimi Inari Taisha
- Kiyomizu-dera
- Higashiyama
- Gion
- Kinkaku-ji or Arashiyama if time allows
JR Pass Day 8
Some JR travel within Kyoto is covered, but many popular attractions are reached more conveniently by bus, subway or private railway. Keep an IC card handy for local transportation outside the JR network.
Overnight: Kyoto
Day 10: Kyoto
Use your second full day in Kyoto to explore a different part of the city from Day 9. This gives you a much more relaxed experience than trying to fit Kyoto into a single day.
Suggested Second-Day Options
- Arashiyama and the bamboo grove
- Tenryu-ji Temple
- Kinkaku-ji
- Philosopher’s Path and northern Higashiyama
- Nishiki Market and central Kyoto
JR Pass Day 9
The JR Pass remains valid, but local transportation around Kyoto often involves buses, subways and private railways. Use the pass where convenient and an IC card for the rest.
Overnight: Kyoto
Day 11: Kyoto to Nara to Osaka
Check out of your Kyoto hotel and travel to Nara for a half-day visit before continuing to Osaka in the afternoon or evening.
Suggested Nara Highlights
- Nara Park
- Todai-ji
- Kasuga Taisha
- Kofuku-ji
- Naramachi, if time allows
JR Pass Day 10
Eligible JR trains between Kyoto, Nara and Osaka are covered by the nationwide JR Pass. Local buses and private railways may require separate payment.
If you are traveling with large luggage, consider forwarding it directly from Kyoto to Osaka or using station lockers while sightseeing in Nara.
After arriving in Osaka, spend the evening around Dotonbori, Namba or another central neighborhood.
Overnight: Osaka
Day 12: Osaka
Spend a full day exploring Osaka before continuing west toward Himeji and Hiroshima.
Suggested Osaka Highlights
- Osaka Castle
- Kuromon Market
- Dotonbori
- Namba
- Umeda and the Osaka Station area
JR Pass Day 11
The JR Pass covers eligible JR lines around Osaka, but Osaka Metro and private railway services are not included. An IC card remains useful for local sightseeing.
This is also a good day to slow down, do laundry, reorganize luggage and prepare for the final long-distance section of the trip.
Overnight: Osaka
Day 13: Osaka to Himeji to Hiroshima
Leave Osaka in the morning and stop in Himeji before continuing west to Hiroshima. Himeji Castle is close enough to the station to work well as a stopover on a longer rail journey.
Suggested Himeji Highlights
- Himeji Castle
- Koko-en Garden
- Walk along Otemae-dori between the station and castle
JR Pass Day 12
Eligible JR and Shinkansen journeys toward Himeji and Hiroshima are covered by the nationwide JR Pass. Check the current rules for the specific Shinkansen service you plan to use.
If you are traveling with large luggage, forwarding your main suitcase directly from Osaka to Hiroshima can make the Himeji stop much easier.
After arriving in Hiroshima, check in and enjoy Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki or an evening walk around the city.
Overnight: Hiroshima
Traveling directly from Osaka to Hiroshima? See our Osaka to Hiroshima Shinkansen guide for train options, fares, rail-pass rules and luggage advice.
Day 14: Miyajima and Hiroshima to Fukuoka
Spend the morning and early afternoon exploring Miyajima, then return to Hiroshima, collect your luggage and continue west to Fukuoka by Shinkansen.
Suggested Miyajima Highlights
- Itsukushima Shrine
- The famous offshore torii gate
- Omotesando shopping street
- Daisho-in Temple
- Mount Misen, if your schedule and weather allow
JR Pass Day 13: Miyajima Ferry Included
Eligible JR train travel between Hiroshima and Miyajimaguchi is covered by the nationwide Japan Rail Pass.
From Miyajimaguchi, take the JR West Miyajima Ferry to Miyajima. The ferry fare is also covered by the Japan Rail Pass.
The separate ¥100 Miyajima Visitor Tax is not included and must still be paid when visiting the island.
Continue to Fukuoka in the Afternoon
Return from Miyajima to Hiroshima, collect your luggage and travel from Hiroshima Station to Hakata Station in Fukuoka on the Sanyo Shinkansen.
Eligible Shinkansen services are covered by the Japan Rail Pass. If you choose a NOZOMI or MIZUHO, you need the separate special ticket available to Japan Rail Pass holders.
If you prefer not to pay the additional charge, choose an eligible service such as SAKURA where available.
Don’t Rush Miyajima
Miyajima deserves several hours rather than a quick visit. If you want to hike Mount Misen or explore the island beyond the waterfront, consider leaving Hiroshima for Fukuoka later in the afternoon or early evening.
The Shinkansen makes the Hiroshima–Fukuoka portion of the day relatively straightforward, so there is no need to leave Miyajima unnecessarily early.
After arriving at Hakata Station, check in and spend the evening exploring nearby restaurants, yatai food stalls or central Fukuoka if you still have energy.
Overnight: Fukuoka
Day 15: Fukuoka
Finish your north-to-south journey in Fukuoka, the largest city in Kyushu and a convenient place to end a long rail trip across Japan.
Suggested Fukuoka Highlights
- Hakata Station area
- Ohori Park
- Canal City Hakata
- Tenjin
- Yatai food stalls in the evening
JR Pass Day 14
Your 14-Day JR Pass is still valid today because it was activated on Day 3. Use it for eligible JR journeys if needed, while an IC card is useful for local transportation that is not operated by JR.
Fukuoka is particularly convenient for onward travel because Fukuoka Airport is close to the city center. You can also continue exploring Kyushu if you have additional time.
Overnight: Fukuoka or departure
Who Is This 15-Day Japan Itinerary Best For?
- Travelers who want to experience several regions of Japan in one trip.
- First-time visitors who are comfortable with a faster-paced itinerary.
- Rail enthusiasts who enjoy long-distance train travel as part of the experience.
- Travelers who prefer major cities mixed with historic destinations, scenic day trips and regional food.
- Visitors comfortable changing hotels several times during the trip.
Who Might Prefer a Slower Route?
If you prefer fewer hotel changes, longer stays in each city or more spontaneous sightseeing time, consider extending this route to 18–21 days or removing one or two stops.
Where to Stay on This 15-Day Japan Train Itinerary
Because this itinerary covers a large distance and includes frequent train travel, staying near major stations can save a significant amount of time.
| City | Convenient Area | Why Stay There? |
|---|---|---|
| Sapporo | Sapporo Station or Odori | Convenient for Otaru and the onward journey to Hakodate. |
| Hakodate | Hakodate Station or Bay Area | Easy for sightseeing and the connection toward Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto. |
| Sendai | Sendai Station | Ideal for Shinkansen travel and the Matsushima day trip. |
| Tokyo | Tokyo Station, Ueno or Shinagawa | Convenient for sightseeing and long-distance JR travel. |
| Kyoto | Kyoto Station | Best for arrival, Nara and onward travel to Osaka. |
| Osaka | Umeda, Namba or Osaka Station area | Good for sightseeing and the journey west toward Himeji. |
| Hiroshima | Hiroshima Station | Convenient for Miyajima and the Shinkansen to Fukuoka. |
| Fukuoka | Hakata Station | Best for Shinkansen travel and easy airport access. |
Hotel Tip
On a long multi-city itinerary, convenience often matters more than staying in the most atmospheric neighborhood. A hotel within walking distance of a major station can make luggage days much easier.
Final Tips for This 15-Day Japan Train Itinerary
- Pack light or use luggage forwarding between major stops.
- Reserve seats for long-distance trains once your travel dates are fixed.
- Activate the 14-Day JR Pass on Day 3 rather than using it for inexpensive local travel in Sapporo and Otaru.
- Keep an IC card for subways, buses and private railways that are not covered by the JR Pass.
- Avoid adding more overnight stops. This itinerary is already ambitious.
- Check current train operations shortly before travel, especially in Hokkaido during winter and after severe weather elsewhere in Japan.
- Leave some flexibility around long travel days such as Hakodate to Sendai and Miyajima to Fukuoka.
Want a More Relaxed Version?
Extend the trip to around three weeks and add extra nights in Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima or Hokkaido. The route becomes significantly more enjoyable when you have a few days without hotel changes.
15-Day Japan Train Itinerary FAQ
Is 15 days enough to travel from Hokkaido to Kyushu?
Yes, but it is a fast-paced trip. This itinerary is best for travelers comfortable with several hotel changes and some long rail journeys.
Is a 14-Day JR Pass worth it for this route?
It is one of the rail passes worth comparing because the itinerary includes multiple expensive long-distance journeys across several regions. Always compare the current pass price with individual fares before buying.
See our Japan Rail Pass Guide for current prices and coverage.
Why activate the JR Pass on Day 3?
The first two days involve relatively inexpensive travel around Sapporo and Otaru. Starting the pass on Day 3 saves its validity for the much more expensive intercity journeys farther south.
Can I do this itinerary with a large suitcase?
Yes, but frequent hotel changes make large luggage inconvenient. Packing light or using luggage forwarding will make the trip considerably easier.
Can I skip part of the route?
Yes. If you want a slower trip, removing one region is usually better than squeezing even more destinations into the schedule.
Can I travel this itinerary in reverse from Fukuoka to Sapporo?
Yes. The route can be reversed, although you should recheck train connections, seat reservations and JR Pass activation timing for the direction you choose.
Is this itinerary suitable for families?
It can be, but the pace and frequent hotel changes may be tiring for younger children. Families may prefer adding extra nights or removing one or two stops.
Related North-to-South Japan Train Travel Guides
Japan Rail Pass Guide
Compare current prices, coverage and rules before deciding whether a 14-day nationwide Japan Rail Pass makes sense for this itinerary.
Tokyo to Sapporo by Train
Explore northern Japan more slowly with our nine-day route through Tokyo, Tohoku, Hakodate and Sapporo.
7-Day Western Japan Itinerary
Spend more time exploring Kansai, Himeji, Okayama, Hiroshima and Miyajima with a shorter western Japan-focused route.
Sightseeing Trains in Japan
Discover scenic, themed and premium trains you can add to a longer rail journey through Japan.
Before You Buy a JR Pass
Compare the cost of your planned train journeys with the current JR Pass price. Depending on your route, individual tickets or a regional pass may offer better value.
Check Current JR Pass PricesAbout Train Travel Japan
Train Travel Japan is written from firsthand experience traveling throughout Japan by rail. I am a Japanese native based in Canada and have traveled to all 47 prefectures of Japan over more than 30 years.
My goal is to make Japan train travel easier to understand, especially for international visitors planning JR Pass trips, regional rail journeys and independent itineraries.