Japan is a country of contrasts, with bustling cities, tranquil temples, scenic landscapes, and rich cultural history. The best way to explore it all is by rail, and with the Hokuriku Arch Pass, you can travel comfortably and efficiently across major cities, including Tokyo, Nagano, Kanazawa, Kaga Onsen, Kyoto, and Osaka.
This pass is a game-changer, offering unlimited access to the Hokuriku Shinkansen and many other JR trains, making it a fantastic value for travelers looking to experience Japan’s best destinations.

In this article, I’ll give you a sneak peek of a 14-day itinerary that makes the most out of your Hokuriku Arch Pass. This journey blends culture, nature, relaxation, and modern excitement—all at an affordable cost.
But this is just a teaser! For the complete, more detailed and smartphone-optimized version of the full itinerary, complete with booking links, activity recommendations, and more, keep reading for how to get it. Let’s go:
Day 1-3: Tokyo – Start Your Journey in Japan’s Dynamic Capital
Your 14-day Japan itinerary begins in Tokyo, one of the world’s most exciting cities. Spend the first few days exploring everything this vibrant metropolis has to offer. From iconic landmarks like the Shibuya Crossing and Tokyo Skytree to cultural treasures such as the Meiji Shrine and Asakusa Temple, Tokyo is a perfect blend of old and new.

When you’re ready, hop on the Hokuriku Shinkansen and head to Nagano for your next adventure.
Day 3-4-5: Nagano – Embrace Nature and History
From Tokyo, a two-hour ride on the Hokuriku Shinkansen will bring you to Nagano, a city known for its stunning natural beauty and rich history. Visit the Zenko-ji Temple, one of Japan’s oldest and most important Buddhist temples, and take a trip to Jigokudani Monkey Park, where you can see the famous snow monkeys relaxing in hot springs.

If you’re visiting in the winter, Nagano is a prime destination for skiing and snowboarding, while in the warmer months, the surrounding mountains offer excellent hiking opportunities. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Nagano before continuing your journey to Kanazawa.
Day 5-6-7: Kanazawa – Discover Japan’s Hidden Gem
From Nagano, head west to Kanazawa, a city full of old-world charm. The city is home to Kenroku-en, one of Japan’s most beautiful gardens, and Kanazawa Castle, a historic landmark. Don’t miss the bustling Omicho Market, where you can sample fresh seafood and local specialties.

Kanazawa offers a wonderful mix of cultural and historical attractions, such as the Nagamachi Samurai District and the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art. After two days in Kanazawa, hop back on the Hokuriku Shinkansen and make your way to Kaga Onsen, a serene hot spring town.
Day 7-8: Kaga Onsen – Relax and Recharge
For the next two days, unwind in the peaceful town of Kaga Onsen, known for its beautiful hot springs. Stay in a traditional ryokan (Japanese inn) and indulge in rejuvenating onsen baths. The town’s laid-back vibe makes it the perfect place to relax after days of sightseeing.
Recharged and relaxed, you’ll be ready to head to your next destination: Kyoto.
Day 8-9-10-11-12-13: Kyoto – A Deep Dive into Japan’s Cultural Heart
From Kaga Onsen, take the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Kyoto, the cultural and spiritual heart of Japan. Over the course of three days, visit iconic sites like the Fushimi Inari Shrine with its famous torii gates, the serene Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), and the beautiful Kiyomizu-dera Temple, perched on a hill offering panoramic views of the city.
Stroll through the historic Gion District, where you can spot Geisha in traditional attire, and explore Kyoto’s stunning gardens, including Ryoan-ji and Nijo Castle. Kyoto is also home to tea ceremonies, traditional sweets, and beautiful artisan shops, offering a glimpse into Japan’s ancient culture.
You can also take advantage of the Kansai Thru Pass (3-day) (now named Kansai Railway Pass) while in the Kyoto and Osaka area, to save even more on local transports.

Day 14: Osaka – End Your Journey in Japan’s Most Exciting City
Your journey concludes in Osaka, Japan’s vibrant food capital and entertainment hub. Spend your last few days exploring the sights, including the iconic Osaka Castle, the bustling Dotonbori District with its neon lights, and the towering Umeda Sky Building, which offers incredible views of the city.
Osaka is famous for its street food, so don’t miss trying takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes). If you’re into shopping, explore Shinsaibashi for fashion and gadgets, or head to Universal Studios Japan for a fun-filled day of attractions.
Alternatively you can close the circle and head back to Tokyo.
Why the Hokuriku Arch Pass Is Perfect for This 14-Day Journey
The Hokuriku Arch Pass is an excellent choice for travelers wanting to explore Japan’s key cities in comfort and at a great value. With access to the Hokuriku Shinkansen and other JR lines, you’ll have unlimited travel options across Japan, making it easy to hop from city to city without breaking the bank. This pass not only saves you money but also provides a seamless travel experience across some of Japan’s most iconic destinations.
By using the Hokuriku Arch Pass, you’ll enjoy efficient and fast connections, meaning you can spend more time exploring and less time traveling. This pass is perfect for our 15-day itinerary, covering all the must-see cities from Tokyo to Osaka.
Hokuriku Arch Pass Itinerary Resume
- Days 1-3 Tokyo
- Day 3 Tokyo to Nagano (start Hokuriku Arch Pass)
- Day 4 Nagano
- Day 5 Nagano to Kanazawa
- Days 6-7 Kanazawa
- Day 8 Kanazawa to Kaga Onsen, Awara Onsen or Fukui
- Day 9 Kaga Onsen, Awara Onsen or Fukui
- Day 10 Kaga Onsen, Awara Onsen or Fukui to Kyoto/Osaka (end Hokuriku Arch Pass)
- Days 11-13 Kyoto/Osaka (Kyoto/Osaka area – 3-day Kansai Thru Pass or Kansai Area Pass)
- Day 14 Leave from Osaka or return to Tokyo
Main travel costs*
Hokuriku Arch Pass ¥30,000
Kansai Thru Pass (3-day) ¥ 5,400 (or Kansai Area Pass ¥5800)
Shin-Osaka to Tokyo (shinkansen) ¥14,920 inc reserved seat, less with a non-reserved seat
TOTAL ¥50,320
*Additional travel costs are getting from and to the airport as well as around Tokyo. However, including those would still come nowhere near the cost of a 14-day Japan Rail Pass which is ¥80,000 now.
Get the Full 15-Day Itinerary for Your Japan Adventure
Ready to turn this sneak peek into your dream trip? The full 14-day itinerary—designed to be easily readable on your smartphone—is packed with useful links for booking trains, hotels, and activities. Plus, it includes detailed travel routes, insider tips, and recommendations for each destination, ensuring you don’t miss out on the best experiences Japan has to offer.
For a small fee, you can access the smartphone-optimized version of this itinerary, making it easy to plan your entire trip on the go. Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a seasoned Japan explorer, this guide is a must-have for navigating your Hokuriku Arch Pass journey smoothly.
Click here to get the full, detailed 15-day itinerary for just a small cost—totally worth the value! Start planning your unforgettable adventure in Japan today!
14-days Japan Itinerary and Toolkit with the Hokuriko Arch Pass
Discover the best of Japan, both iconic landmarks and hidden gems, with this 14-day Hokuriku Arch Pass itinerary. Maximize your…
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