Japan in a Nutshell: The Land of the Rising Sun by Bullet Train
This 10 day Japan itinerary follows the classic route from Tokyo to Kyoto, travelling by bullet train via Mount Fuji and Hakone. It’s ideal for first-time visitors looking to experience Japan’s cities, culture and landscapes in a seamless and well-paced journey.
Travelling Japan by rail reveals the country’s cultural and geographic spine, from the intensity of Tokyo through the landscapes around Mount Fuji to the historic cities of Kyoto and Osaka. The focus is on balancing modern city life with tradition, food culture and time to slow down, using Japan’s world-class train network to keep travel seamless and immersive.
The itinerary below is shown as an example route. Every journey we create is planned from scratch, and can be adapted — unless you like it exactly as it is.
- Day 1 - Overnight Flight
The day has arrived! Your trip begins with an overnight flight to Tokyo
- Day 2 - Tokyo
Welcome to the Land of the Rising Sun!
Your guide will be waiting on arrival to escort you to your hotel by public transit. Your rail passes are included for the entirety of your journey, so no need to faff around pre-departure.
- Day 3 - Tokyo
Today you'll soak in the city's key sights with an expert local guide, including a stop for a bit of street food.
You'll have time to rest up back at your hotel before heading out tonight to watch a Japanese staple: sumo wrestling.
- Day 4 - Tokyo
Today is at leisure to further explore Tokyo. Remember to check in on your Blank Canvas travel app for personalised sightseeing and dinner/nightlife recommendations.
- Day 5 - Mount Fuji & Hakone
Your first bullet train today as you head south to the iconic Mount Fuji. You'll be staying a traditional Ryokan, a type of Japanese inn, where you'll get a glimpse into local life.
Enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner complete with sake, a type of rice wine, this evening.
- Day 6 - Mount Fuji & Hakone
Today is at leisure to explore the Fuji region. Head out on lake cruises, go hiking, kayaking, or take the cable car up the mountainside.
There are lots of viewing points worth taking in, so don't forget that camera!
- Day 7 - Kyoto
You've seen modern Japan through it's bustling capital, and rural Japan in Hakone, now it's time to dial the clock back to ancient times as you head further west to the ancient city of Kyoto.
- Day 8 - Kyoto
Kyoto is Japan's cultural capital, so where better place to dig deeper into the customs and practices of this fascinating nation. You'll head out with your expert guide today to do just that!
- Day 9 - Kyoto
It's all about engaging your foodie side today as you take the streets to sample traditional Japanese dishes.
Afterwards you'll try your hand at preparing your own at a local cooking school.
- Day 10 - Osaka
Onto Japan's second city - Osaka - by bullet train. A vibrant and welcoming city of good food and friendly people.
Tonight is at leisure.
- Day 11 - Osaka
You'll soak in the very best Osaka has to offer today on a half-day tour. The city is known for its modernity, but there's so much more to it.
Today’s tour is a journey through its history from the violence of the samurai era to the 21st century cityscape. This evening enjoy a food tour sampling some of the city's most famous dishes.
- Day 12 - Overnight Flight/Day Flight
Alas, it's time to head home. You'll be transferred to Kansai airport for your onward journey
From £3270pp
Itinerary highlights
- Travel across Japan by bullet train, linking Tokyo, Mount Fuji, Kyoto and Osaka with ease
- Experience sumo wrestling, traditional ryokan stays and hands-on Japanese cooking
- Explore ancient temples, vibrant street food scenes and contrasting city neighbourhoods
- Designed as a flexible example, that can be shaped around your interests