Kyoto to Tokyo

Overview

What Makes This Route Work

A route that starts slowly and gathers speed, following Japan from the temple gardens of Kyoto to the electric energy of Tokyo. Between the two are the deer of Nara, Kanazawa's samurai lanes and a restorative ryokan night in Hakone's hot-spring hills.

Highlights

• Early morning at Fushimi Inari
• A traditional ryokan stay in Hakone
• Kenroku-en garden in Kanazawa
• Shinkansen rides between regions

1. Days 1–4

   Kyoto

   Temples, gardens and the wooden lanes of Higashiyama, starting early to beat the crowds. Include a day trip to the great temples and deer park of Nara.

2. Days 5–6

   Kanazawa

   Take the train to the Sea of Japan coast for Kenroku-en, the Higashi Chaya geisha district and superb seafood at Omicho Market.

3. Days 7–8

   Hakone

   Slow down in the mountains with hot springs and a kaiseki dinner at a ryokan. Lake Ashi and Mount Fuji views, weather permitting.

4. Days 9–12

   Tokyo

   A city in many chapters: old Asakusa, stylish Omotesando, the art of teamLab and an evening of tiny bars in Shinjuku, before your flight home.