The Golden Route is the quintessential travel itinerary for first-time visitors to Japan. It traditionally includes Tokyo , Kyoto , Osaka and (sometimes) Hiroshima , offering a well-rounded introduction to Japan’s modern and historical sites. This route is ideal for first-time visitors as it provides a mix of modern cityscapes, historical sites, natural beauty and cultural experiences. The entire journey typically takes 7 to 14 days Depending on the duration of your stay in each place.
The Gold Line is extensively linked through Shinkansen , Japan’s high-speed Shinkansen, ensuring swift and hassle-free travel between major destinations. Additionally, local train services, bus routes, and extensive subway systems will facilitate easy navigation within each city. Numerous visitors choose the Japan Rail (JR) Pass , providing unrestricted use of most JR trains, such as Shinkansen services, making it an economical choice.
This guide offers a brief overview of every location in the sequence you'd visit them, along with useful travel details.
1. Tokyo (2–3 days)
Begin your journey in Tokyo, a metropolis where cutting-edge skyscrapers coexist with ancient temples. This vibrant city provides top-notch shopping, entertainment, and culinary adventures, setting the stage for an exhilarating initial destination along the Golden Route.
Highlights:
・ Asakusa and Senso-ji Temple - The oldest temple in Tokyo, with traditional stores lining Nakamise Street.
・ Shibuya Crossing - One of the most heavily used foot crossings globally.
・ Shinjuku & The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Tower - Unobstructed urban vistas from the complimentary observation floors.
・ Akihabara - A center for anime, gaming, and technology culture.
・ Tsukiji Outer Market – Essential for those seeking fresh sushi and regional specialties.
How to Get There: Travel to either Narita or Haneda Airport. You can use theJR Yamanote Line to reach key areas of the city.
2. Yokohama (1 day)
Just south of Tokyo, Yokohama is a bustling port city recognized for its lively harbor and global cultural impacts. It makes for a convenient day excursion featuring picturesque vistas and distinctive points of interest.
Highlights:
・ Minato Mirai - A high-tech neighborhood featuring water vistas and retail options.
・ Yokohama Chinatown - The biggest Chinatown in Japan, teeming with genuine Chinese food options.
・ Red Brick Warehouse - A landmark center for commerce and culture.
・ Cosmo World - Known for the renowned Cosmo Clock 21 Ferris wheel.
・ Cup Noodles Museum - Discover the origins of instant ramen and create your own cup noodles.
How to Get There: The JR Negishi Line (approximately 30 minutes from Tokyo Station).
3. Hakone (1 – 2 days)
Renowned for its thermal baths, scenic vistas of Mount Fuji, and historic sites, Hakone It’s an ideal spot to unwind before moving westward.
Highlights:
・ Hakone Open-Air Museum - Sculptures outdoors offering picturesque mountain vistas.
・ Lake Ashi - Enjoy a cruise with Mount Fuji in sight.
・ Owakudani - A volcanic valley where you can sample black eggs boiled in sulfur springs.
・ Hakone Shrine – A beautiful torii gate beside the lake.
・ Odawara Castle - An ancient castle encircled by cherry blossom trees.
How to Get There: Board the Tokaido Shinkansen at Tokyo Station bound for Odawara Station (approximately 35 minutes away). Once you arrive, explore the area using the Hakone Tozan Railway, Hakone Ropeway, or local bus services. Hakone Free Pass provides unlimited local transport.
4. The Region of Mount Fuji, Spanning Yamanashi and Shizuoka (1) – 2 days)
The area around Mount Fuji provides some of the finest vistas of Japan’s iconic summit, featuring lakes, waterfalls, and numerous hiking paths.
Highlights:
・ Lake Kawaguchi (Yamanashi) - A beautiful lake showcasing mesmerizing reflections of Mount Fuji.
・ Chureito Pagoda (Yamanashi) – One of Japan’s most recognizable photography locations.
・ Oshino Hakkai (Yamanashi) - A quaint village featuring pristine pools.
・ Fujikyu Highland (Yamanashi) - An exciting theme park located close to the mountains.
・ Shiraito Falls (Shizuoka) – A stunning waterfall featuring gentle streams.
・ Otodome Falls (Shizuoka) - A strong waterfall located close to Shiraito Falls.
How to Get There: Starting from Hakone, you can either board a bus or train heading towards Gotemba station and switch to another mode of local transportation. As an alternative route, consider taking the Fujikyu Railway directly from Otsuki station to Mount Fuji station, or opt for the Fuji Excursion Limited Express departing from Shinjuku.
5. Kyoto (2–3 days)
Kyoto, once the ancient capital of Japan, boasts a wealth of cultural heritage, numerous temples, and beautiful natural vistas.
Highlights:
・ Fushimi Inari Shrine – The renowned trail lined with vermilion torii gates.
・ Kiyomizu-dera – A stunning wooden shrine with views of Kyoto.
・ Arashiyama Bamboo Forest – A captivating bamboo forest.
・ Nijo Castle – A remarkably intact castle from the samurai era.
・ Gion District — The core of Kyoto's geisha tradition.
How to Get There: Board the Tokaido Shinkansen at either Mishima or Odawara stations for a journey of approximately 2 hours.
6. Nara (1 day)
Just a brief journey away from Kyoto lies Nara, renowned for its historic temples and amiable deer.
Highlights:
・ Todai-ji Temple – The location of Japan's biggest Great Buddha statue.
・ Nara Park – A large park where you can have close encounters with deer.
・ Kasuga Taisha Shrine – An impressive shrine illuminated by lanterns.
・ Kofuku-ji Temple – A five-story pagoda.
How to Get There Take the Kintetsu Nara Line from Kyoto (40 minutes).
7. Osaka (2 days)
Osaka, the culinary heart of Japan, is famous for its dynamic night life and deep cultural heritage.
Highlights:
・ Dotonbori - A vibrant area brimming with neon lights and fantastic street cuisine.
・ Osaka Castle - A historic site encircled by picturesque parks.
・ Shinsekai and Tsutenkaku Tower - A charming area for reminiscing.
・ Universal Studios Japan – One of the leading theme parks in Japan.
・ Kuromon Ichiba Market – A haven for those who love good food.
How to Get There: Board the JR or Kintetsu Nara Line from Nara (30–45 minutes).
8. Hiroshima (1–2 days)
A city marked by history and fortitude, Hiroshima is essential for its impactful memorials and picturesque Miyajima Island.
Highlights:
・ Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum - A website devoted to honoring the victims of the atomic bombings.
・ Atomic Bomb Dome – A protected ruin dating back to 1945, currently listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
・ Miyajima Island and Itsukushima Shrine - Known for its iconic floating torii gate.
・ Hiroshima Castle – An exquisite recreation of a samurai fortress.
・ Okonomimura - A multi-level food center specializing in Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki.
・ Okunoshima An island located approximately two hours from the city, populated by rabbits.
How to Get There: Board the Sanyo Shinkansen from Osaka (1 hour 30 minutes).
9. Returning to Tokyo
Once you finish your trip in Hiroshima, you'll want to head back to Tokyo to close out your itinerary. The quickest and easiest way to do this is via the shinkansen.
How to Return to Tokyo:
・ Shinkansen: Take the The Sanyo Shinkansen from Hiroshima to Shin-Osaka , subsequently move to the Tokaido Shinkansen to Tokyo The entire trip lasts around 4 hours .
・ Flight Option: Should you choose to travel by air, Hiroshima Airport provides domestic flights to Tokyo. Haneda and Narita Airports (about 1.5 hours).
・ Night Bus: For those traveling on a budget, overnight buses to Tokyo are an option although they 12+ hours .
10. Final Tips
Below are several methods to enhance your initial journey through Japan, making it truly unforgettable. Whether it’s about purchasing rail passes or choosing what to pack, here’s essential information for you:
・ Train Passes: Take advantage of the different train passes For additional savings, consider regional passes which are less expensive and restricted to particular regions within Japan.
・ Where to Stay: Try out different accommodation options In addition to typical hotels or hostels, opt for a more authentic experience by staying at traditional Japanese inns. ryokan ) or stay a night at an inn ( minshuku ).
・ The Road Less Traveled: Have an extra day available? Include one more stop on the Golden Route. Here are a few options .
・ Rules and Etiquette: Before traveling to Japan, make sure to do some reading on it first. most common mistakes for first-time tourists .
・ Learn Japanese: Install any app from this selection to enhance your skills. basic Japanese In emergency situations. It can be helpful to know some key phrases and terminology Can assist you in having a seamless journey.
・ Suica or Pasmo: Streamline your commute by downloading digital train cards to assist you in zipping between cities quickly.
・ Cash is (still) King: It's generally advisable to carry some cash with you, since smaller, family-owned eateries often favor cash payments over contactless alternatives.
・ Stay Connected: Purchase an eSIM or portable Wi-Fi device to assist with navigating the city.
・ Pack Smart: Review the weather forecast one week prior to your travel to get a better sense of what clothing to pack and what items you should carry with you.
Have you checked out the Golden Route? Feel free to share your experiences or recommend other top spots to add to our itinerary!