Explore the best of Western Japan with this 7-day itinerary, maximizing the 5-Day JR Kansai-Hiroshima Area Pass.

This 7-day itinerary efficiently covers all destinations while taking full advantage of the 5-Day Kansai-Hiroshima Area Pass for cost-effective travel.

Day 1 — Kyoto: Timeless Aesthetic & Cultural Start

Begin your Japan holiday in Kyoto, one of the country’s most aesthetic destinations. Known for its temples, shrines, and traditional streets, Kyoto offers a perfect introduction to Japanese culture.

Things To Do in Kyoto

• Walk through the iconic red torii gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine

• Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple for panoramic city views

• Explore the historic Gion district and Pontocho Alley

Food to Try

• Matcha desserts

• Kyoto-style kaiseki cuisine

• Yudofu (tofu hot pot)

Hotel Tip
➡️ Best hotel deals in Kyoto

Day 2 — Nara & Osaka: Heritage Meets Street Food Culture

Activate your JR Pass and travel to Nara before continuing on to vibrant Osaka.

Things To Do in Nara

• Meet the famous deer in Nara Park

• Visit Todai-ji Temple and the Great Buddha

Things To Do in Osaka

• Explore Osaka Castle

• Experience Dotonbori’s neon streets

• Enjoy shopping and nightlife in Shinsaibashi

Food to Try

• Takoyaki

• Okonomiyaki

• Kushikatsu

Hotel Tip
➡️ Best hotel deals in Osaka

Day 3 — Kobe & Himeji: Harbor Views & Japan’s Most Beautiful Castle

Travel west to Kobe, a stylish port city, then continue to Himeji, home to Japan’s most iconic castle.

Things To Do

• Walk along Kobe Harborland

• Visit Ikuta Shrine

• Explore Himeji Castle and its surrounding gardens

Food to Try

• Kobe beef

• Akashiyaki

• Local bakeries and cafes

Hotel Tip
➡️ Best hotel deals in Kobe or Himeji

Day 4 — Okayama & Kurashiki: Gardens and Countryside Charm

Slow down and enjoy Japan’s countryside aesthetic in Okayama and Kurashiki.

Things To Do

• Stroll through Korakuen Garden, one of Japan’s most beautiful gardens

• Visit Okayama Castle

• Walk along the canals of the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter

Food to Try

• Barazushi

• Kibi dango sweets

Hotel Tip
➡️ Best hotel deals in Okayama

Day 5 — Hiroshima & Miyajima: History, Peace & Scenic Views

Arrive in Hiroshima, a meaningful destination that blends history with natural beauty.

Things To Do in Hiroshima

• Visit Peace Memorial Park and Museum

• See the Atomic Bomb Dome

• Explore Hondori shopping street

Things To Do on Miyajima Island

• View the famous floating torii gate

• Visit Itsukushima Shrine

• Enjoy coastal walks and island views

Food to Try

• Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki

• Oysters

• Momiji manju

Hotel Tip
➡️ Best hotel deals in Hiroshima

✨Learn more about the 5-Day Kansai-Hiroshima Area Pass