Itineraries

Plan ahead with our routes and itineraries, including the best places to discover Japan while traveling by rail, how to get there and getting around with the JR Pass.

2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan: Travel guide

Rugby fans around the world are already looking forward to the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan. It is the first time in the event’s history that it will take place outside the traditional heartland of the sport, and the first time it will be held in Asia.

The 6-week tournament will kick off on September 20 and will finish with the final on November 2 in Yokohama Stadium. The fixtures will be played in twelve stadiums around Japan, providing rugby fans with the perfect excuse to visit a fascinating and unique country.

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How to get from Kansai Airport to Kyoto

There are numerous ways of getting from Kansai Airport to Kyoto. The easiest way is by train though there are alternatives which may be cheaper or convenient depending on your circumstances.

Kyoto is an incredible destination which is a must-see. It is considered to be the cultural capital of Japan and a major tourist destination and its numerous temples, shrines, gardens, and palaces are listed collectively as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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How to get from Narita Airport to Shinjuku

Shinjuku is a lively part of the capital which is famous for its shops and entertainment. It’s renowned for its karaoke bars, neon-lit streets, and its towering skyscrapers.

The district is also home to the world’s busiest train station, which serves over two million passengers each day. It’s common point of connection for visitors heading to various other parts of the prefecture as it links around 12 different rail lines.

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Plum blossoms in Japan: Best places and forecast

People throughout the world are familiar with the famous Japanese cherry blossoms. They may have attended any of the numerous cherry blossom festivals held each year in the United States and elsewhere, or they may have thrilled to the sound of “Sakura Sakura”, a traditional Japanese folk song celebrating this beautiful flower.

Before the cherry blossoms emerge, however, another beautiful tree graces the island of Japan. Mid-February marks the start of spring and the beginning of the plum blossom season. If you want to see the plum blossoms in Japan, keep on reading!

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From Kansai International Airport to Osaka

Kansai International Airport (KIX) is one of Japan’s largest and busiest airports. It is located on a man-made island which is about 40 kilometers south of Osaka, Japan’s historical second city.

There are multiple ways of traveling between Kansai International Airport and Osaka including by train, bus or taxi. This guide will explain the various ways you can make the journey and how you can do it with and without your Japan Rail Pass.

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Getting from Osaka to Hiroshima

Osaka and Hiroshima are separated by a distance of fewer than 400 kilometers, or 250 miles. If traveling by train, Hiroshima can be a worthy day trip from Osaka. If you have time, however, consider spending more than just one day in this historic city. Hiroshima can also serve as a base for day trips into the surrounding area, including Miyajima.

Are you wondering how to get there? Check out this handy guide for traveling by train or by bus.

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