Best things to do in Nagoya, Takayama, Osaka and beyond with the Japan Rail Takayama-Hokuriku Area Pass
Are you looking for a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of city life? Then the Hokuriku area of Japan is just the place for you. From taking a zen stroll through a UNESCO World Heritage Site to savouring the perfectly-marbled Hida beef, here’s where you can get from Nagoya to Osaka in just five days!
Getting around with your JR Pass
For this itinerary, we highly recommend that you use the JR Takayama-Hokuriku Area Pass. This JR Pass gives you 5 days of unlimited travel on trains and buses in Nagoya, Takayama, Kanazawa, Osaka, and more! Simply redeem your exchange order for your JR Pass at the JR Offices conveniently located at Nagoya and Osaka Stations.
Of course, if you're planning to travel beyond the region or for a longer holiday, you can also use your JR Whole Japan Rail Pass that will give you up to 21 days of travel.
#KlookTip: Never miss a train or bus by using the Japan Travel by NAVTIME app to plan your journey from place to place. You can also indicate which JR Pass you have when searching for routes to your destination, and it will show the trips that are covered by your pass!
Grab Your Essentials Before You Go
1. Stay connected with a 4G SIM Card or Portable WiFi that you can simply pick up at Nagoya’s Chubu Centrair International Airport or Osaka’s Kansai International Airport. You’ll definitely need it to share your cool photos with your family and friends!
2. Get from the airport right into town in the fastest and most comfy manner! The μ-SKY Limited Express Train will get you from the Chubu Centrair International Airport to downtown Nagoya in under 30 minutes. If you're flying directly into Osaka's Kansai International Airport, you can consider getting the following airport express that will bring you straight into the heart of Osaka city:
- JR Haruka Airport Express: Kansai Airport to Shin-Osaka Station
- Nankai Line Airport Express: Kansai Airport to Namba Station
Complete Nagoya to Osaka Itinerary
1. Nagoya
Now that we're all set, it's time to set off! Nagoya is the fourth-largest city in Japan, but it feels nowhere as packed and busy as Tokyo and Osaka. From Nagoya Castle to one of the largest science museums in the world, and even Legoland, there are more than enough activities to keep you exploring for days!
Nagoya Castle
No trip to Nagoya is complete without a visit to Nagoya Castle that dates back to 1610. Besides being able to walk through the castle’s Honmaru Palace that has been recently rebuilt using traditional construction materials and techniques, you can also climb up the authentic watchtower that is more than 300 years old.
Oh did we mention that this is one of the top spots in Japan to catch Sakuras each year?
- Address: 1-1 Honmaru, Naka-ku, Nagoya
- Admission: ¥500 (~S$6.30)
- Opening Hours: Daily 9am to 4:30pm (Last admission at 4pm, Closed 29 Dec to 1 Jan)
Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium
Looking for some family fun? Plan a day out to the world-class Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium that boasts one of the largest outdoor tanks in the world. You can also get up close with marine life from across the globe, including beluga whales, penguins, and even giant whale sharks!
- Address: 1-3 Minato-Machi, Minato-ku, Nagoya
- Opening Hours: Daily, 9:30am to 5:30pm
Legoland Japan
Those looking for some adrenaline fun should also head over to Legoland Japan and enjoy the 40 attractions including plenty of rides, shows, and interactive experiences! The park’s construction includes over 17 million authentic Lego pieces and 10,000 Lego model sets. The kids will love exploring the 7 themed areas including Bricktopia, LegoCity, Pirate Shores, Miniland, and more!
- Address: 2-1 Chrome 2, Kinjofuto, Minato Ward, Nagoya
- Opening Hours: Daily 10am to 5pm (Operation hours are subject to change, do check out the latest days & hours of operation here)
Nabana no Sato Winter Illumination
Be surrounded by dazzling lights and colours during an evening out to Nabana no Sato Park, a botanical garden 35 minutes out of Nagoya. Watch as the park transforms into Japan’s biggest illumination show as millions of LED lights light up its many ponds, trees, and tunnels. It's not to be missed!
- Address: 270 Komae, Nagashima-cho, Kuwana City
- Admission: ¥2,500 (~S$24)
- Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 10am to 9pm, Saturday and Sunday 10am to 10pm
Studio Ghibli Theme Park
Fans of Studio Ghibli films, rejoice! Here's another thing to look forward to visiting once Japan reopens ✨ The world's first Studio Ghibli Theme Park has just opened its doors in November 2022! This whimsical Ghibli Park is located within the Expo 2005 Aichi Commemorative Park in Nagakute city, and covers a wide area of about 17.5 hectares featuring green landscapes that are similar to the settings in our favourite Studio Ghibli films!
- Address: 1533-1 Ibaragabasama, Nagakute, Aichi
- Admission: From ¥1,000 (~S$9)
- Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 10am to 5pm, Saturday and Sunday 9am to 5pm
Need more suggestions on fun spots you can check out in Nagoya? Here's a list of other attractions you can head to if you have some extra time on your schedule:
2. Gero Onsen
Gero Onsen is one of the most famous hot spring towns in Japan simply because of the high-quality hot spring waters that flow through. The spring water here is alkaline-based and will rejuvenate you by improving blood circulation and relieving fatigue.
Getting to Gero from Nagoya is an easy 2-hour ride from Nagoya on board the JR Limited Express Wide View Hida train, which is covered by the JR Takayama-Hokuriku Area Pass.
Gero Onsen Yamagataya
A trip here is never complete without an actual soak in the soothing hot spring waters of Gero Onsen. One recommended place is at Gero Onsen Yamagataya where there are a few public onsen baths to choose from, including an open-air one with a view of the Hida River. Complete this rejuvenating onsen experience with a kaiseki dinner that features the famous Hida Beef. What’s Hida Beef? Think wagyu, but better!
#KlookTip: For those who are a little shyer or don't mind splurging a little, Gero Onsen Yamagataya also offers rooms that come with your own private onsen right on your balcony!
- Address: 260-1 Yunoshima, Gero, Gifu
Enjoy a Festival
There are some festivals here at Gero spread throughout the year. One of the major ones is the Gero Onsen Festival held every year from 1 to 3 August. The whole town gathers for a series of celebrations involving fire, floats, folk dancing, and fireworks!
Each 14 February, the town also celebrates the abundant rice harvest with the Hanagasa or Rice Field God Festival, where dancers wearing hats with flowers folk dance while carrying rice cakes on their shoulders.
3. Takayama
Takayama is a charming town in the mountainous Hida region and a popular tourist stop due to its old-world charms. It is also the gateway to the stunning Japan Alps, relaxing onsen towns, and world-renowned Shirakawa-go. If you’re looking to better know this historic town, take a 40-min walking tour around Takayama.
Getting to Takayama is simply continuing the journey on board the JR Limited Express Wide View Hida train. It is only a short 50-minute ride from Gero.
Sanmachi Suji District
Stepping foot into Takayama Old Town will surely bring you back in time, with traditional houses dating back hundreds of years. This quaint historic district consists of three streets filled with restaurants, shops, and even sake breweries. Some of the yummiest food Takayama offers can also be found here.
- Address: 20 Kamisannomachi, Takayama
- Operating Hours: While the area is accessible any time of the day, most shops open from 10am to 5pm.
Hida Kotte Ushi
Attention Wagyu Fans! This Hida beef sushi will melt in your mouth and leave you craving for more. There are a total of four combinations to choose from, with the most popular being the set of two pieces of medium-rare Hida beef sushi served simply with salt and soy sauce, plated on a savoury rice cracker.
- Address: 34 Kamisannomachi, Takayama
- Price: ¥700 (~S$7) for 2 pieces of Hida Beef Nigiri Sushi
- Operating Hours: Daily 10am to 5pm
#KlookTip: Two pieces of Hida beef will never be enough. There are plenty of restaurants in Takayama that offer Hida beef in various styles, so take your pick from yakiniku, sukiyaki, and even grilled with the region’s famous miso on top of a hoba leaf! A word of caution though, some famous BBQ restaurants like Ajikura and Maruaki can get really crowded during dinner with queues up to two hours. So do head over before dinner, or you could always afford an indulgent lunch!
Miyagawa Morning Market
Those looking to try some local fruits, sweets, and snacks shouldn’t miss the open-air morning market that runs along the Miyagawa River all year round. You can also head down to the river bank to soak in the view, especially during sakura season!
- Address: Shimosannomachi, Takayama
- Operating Hours: April to November Daily 7am to 12pm, December to March Daily 8am to 12pm
#KlookTip: Go with an empty stomach as you’ll be tempted by all the freshly made snacks. One of our top picks will be the stall that sells piping hot takoyaki crisped to perfection, yet gooey inside with a generous piece of octopus. Those wanting something sweet can also try a tamaten – an eggy marshmallow-like sweet made with honey, sugar, and sake.
BONUS: Day Trip to Shinhotaka Ropeway & Hirayu Onsen
Ride on Japan’s only double-decker cable cars up to the jaw-dropping scenery of the Japan Alps. It is a winter wonderland as you soak in 360° views at the Nishihotakaguchi Station Observation Deck, some 2,000m above sea level. You can also spend hours making snow angels and playing in tons of untouched snow if you’re willing to brave the cold.
#KlookTip: You can check the current weather conditions at the summit observation deck on the Shinhotaka Ropeway website before deciding if it's worth heading up for the day.
Not travelling in winter? Take a hike up the Nishiho Mountain trail to soak in the picturesque scenery and fill your lungs with clean and crisp air.
Getting to Shinhotaka Ropeway from Takayama takes less than 2 hours on board Nohi Bus’ Shinhotaka Line from the Takayama Nohi Bus Terminal. The fare is ¥2,200 (~S$20) per way and is not covered by the JR Takayama-Hokuriku Area Pass. Save at least S$10 when you purchase the Shinhotaka Ropeway and Bus Tickets combo on Klook.
- Address: 710-58 Okuhida Onsengo Kansaka, Takayama
- Admission: ¥3,300 (~S$30)
- Opening Hours: Daily 9am to 4:15pm
If onsens are your thing, then you should definitely make a pit stop at Hirayu Onsen while on the way back from Shinhotaka Ropeway to Takayama. Imagine soaking in warm therapeutic spring water while snow falls gently all around you. There are plenty of onsens available, such as Hirayu no Mori that offers 16 open-air and indoor onsen baths for a small charge.
Getting to Hirayu Onsen takes about 1 hour from either Takayama or Shinhotaka Ropeway on board the Nohi Bus’ Shinhotaka Line. You won’t miss it as it is the only major stop between Takayama and Shinhotaka Ropeway.
#KlookTip: Those who are looking to spoil yourselves a little should stay a night in one of the local ryokans for an authentic onsen experience. Did we also mention that there’s a ski resort within walking distance of the Hirayu Onsen Bus Terminal?
4. Shirakawa-go
Turn back time and discover traditional Japanese life as it would have been 300 years ago at Shirakawa-go. Explore the charming streets and the beauty of their traditional gassho-style farmhouses with their distinctive thatched roof. You’ll immediately understand why this small village was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Getting to Shirakawa-go requires you to take a bus from either Takayama or Kanazawa. Both bus routes are covered by the JR Takayama-Hokuriku Area Pass. There are two types of buses to and from Takayama – Reserved and non-Reserved, while buses to and from Kanazawa are all Reserved only. JR Pass holders are highly recommended to make a reservation for the buses as they run out quickly during peak season. You can do so by calling the Nohi Bus Reservation Center at 0577-32-1688 (Daily 9am to 6pm).
#KlookTip: You can make Shirakawa-go a pit stop between Takayama and Kanazawa, as most visitors require only 2-3 hours to comfortably explore this quaint village. There are coin lockers and a paid luggage storage area at the Shirakawa-go Bus Terminal to store your bags.
Take a slow walk to the Ogimachi Castle Observation Deck that is up a hill and offers the iconic view of Shirakawa-go and its farmhouses. It is especially charming in winter when the entire village is blanketed in heavy snow.
- Address: Ogimachi, Shirakawa, Ono District
- Opening Hours: Always open, but maybe closed after heavy snowfall
5. Kanazawa
Kanazawa is one of Japan’s hidden gems, quite literally. The name Kanazawa actually means “marsh of gold” and it is no wonder why the city offers numerous souvenirs and snacks with gold leaf incorporated into them. Besides being a capital of culture, it also has a lasting samurai legacy.
With many sights to offer, why not take a half-day tour to learn all about Kanazawa from an English-speaking guide?
Getting to Kanazawa is convenient due to its high accessibility from Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Nagoya via train. With the JR Takayama-Hokuriku Area Pass, you can catch a direct bus from Takayama and Shirakawa-go, or the Limited Express Thunderbird train from Osaka and Kyoto. The Hokuriku Shinkansen between Kanazawa and Toyama, and the Limited Express Wide View Hida train between Toyama and Nagoya are also covered by this JR Pass.
Kanazawa Castle
The Kanazawa Castle dates back to the 1500s. Despite going through numerous calamities, the castle has been carefully reconstructed over the years. If you’re here during sakura season, prepare to witness Kanazawa’s abundance of cherry blossoms from the top of Kanazawa Castle.
- Address: 50 Kamiomi-cho, Kanazawa-shi, Ishikawa
- Admission: Free
- Opening Hours: Daily 8am to 5pm
Kenrokuen Garden
Kenrokuen Garden is one of Japan’s most celebrated landscape gardens. These spacious grounds used to be the outer garden of Kanazawa Castle and offer something different through the seasons. Take a zen stroll through Kenrokuen Garden and see if you can spot the six factors that an excellent landscape garden must possess: spaciousness, seclusion, artifice, antiquity, watercourses, and panoramic views.
- Address: 1 Kenrokumachi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa
- Admission: ¥320 (~S$3)
- Opening Hours: Daily 8am to 5pm
Omicho Seafood Market
Due to the close proximity to the Sea of Japan, Kanazawa offers some of the freshest seafood in Japan. And there’s no better place than Omicho Seafood Market to satisfy an empty stomach. With over 100 shops and restaurants, the food options are endless. You can stop and buy fresh seafood prepared right in front of you, or head into a restaurant and have some impeccably fresh seafood at affordable prices!
- Address: 50 Kamiomi-cho, Kanazawa-shi, Ishikawa
- Opening Hours: Daily 8am to 5pm
Higashi Chaya District
The Higashi Chaya District used to be a traditional place of feasts and entertainment by geishas. Today, these historic buildings have mostly been transformed into restaurants, souvenir shops, and even sake breweries. But the area remains classified as one of Japan’s cultural assets. The Kanazawa City Tourism Association holds a geisha performance show here on selected Saturdays.
As you walk around the area, you'll be curious to see people indulging in golden ice cream. Yes, that's right! Soft serve ice cream covered in real gold leaf! That's because Kanazawa is the leading producer of gold leaf in Japan. There are also plenty of other snacks, liquor, and souvenirs you can find here with gold leaf incorporated into them!
- Address: 1 Chome-13 Higashiyama, Kanazawa
- Opening Hours: Always Open
6. Kyoto
Kyoto needs no special mention. Famous for its many picture-perfect attractions – strolling through the endless row of torii gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine and taking a rickshaw ride among towering bamboo groves of Arashiyama – Kyoto needs to be on your bucket list. Think your photos won’t do justice to the beauty of it all? We got the perfect solution in the form of a photoshoot with a professional photographer!
Getting to Kyoto is quick with the JR Takayama-Hokuriku Area Pass, which includes the Limited Express Thunderbird train from Osaka and Takayama. Download the Japan Travel by NAVTIME app to plan your journey.
Fushimi Inari Shrine
The endless walk through the thousands of torii gates is an Instagram must-have for any visitor to Kyoto. This trail that winds up the hills behind Fushimi Inari Shrine leads you to a beautiful lookout of Kyoto.
#KlookTip: One of the best spots to catch the sunset we found was the 'Crossroads', which was about 45 minutes into our hike.
- Address: 68 Fukakusa Yabunouchicho, Fushimi Ward, Kyoto
- Admission: Free
- Opening Hours: Always Open
Hanami-Koji Geisha District
At Hanami-Koji Geisha District, 17th-century tea houses line the streets as tourists roam around in exquisite-looking kimonos and yukatas. Located at the heart of Gion, you can catch a glimpse of a Geisha (not just people in costume, but a legit Geisha!) making her way to restaurants or tea houses in the evenings and on weekends.
Want to stand out from the crowd and up your Instagram game? Get the whole gang dressed for the occasion by renting a Kimono or Yukata!
- Address: Gionmachi Minamigawa, Kyoto
- Admission: Free
- Opening Hours: Always Open
Kiyomizudera Temple
Kiyomizudera, which translates to “pure water”, is one of Japan’s largest and most beautiful water temples. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is perched on a hill 13m above ground and is best recognised for its wooden stage and stunning panoramic views. Make sure to snap a few shots at sunset for a beautiful gradient backdrop.
#KlookTip: Kiyomizudera Temple conducts night illuminations during the peak autumn leaf season in November, and also sakura season around April. They are simply stunning!
- Address: 1-294, Kiyomizu, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
- Admission: ¥400 (~S$4)
- Opening Hours: Daily 6am to 6pm (Check here for special night viewing times during the year)
Arashiyama
One of the most notable Kyoto tourist spots has got to be the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. Spend a quiet morning here with its hundreds of towering bamboo plants and scenic paths. It’s a short 30-minute stroll but feel free to stay a little longer to take pictures at the Bamboo Alley and just enjoy nature.
#KlookTip: Try and reach as early as possible before the tour buses arrive in the later morning.
- Address: Sagatenryuji Susukinobabacho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto
- Admission: Free
- Opening Hours: Always Open
From the Bamboo Forest, head towards the Hozugawa River. You can also catch a scenic boat ride down this river dwarfed by the surrounding mountains. Across the seasons, the Arashiyama mountains will offer vastly different sceneries as your boatmen navigate the rivers. Get your cameras ready!
7. Osaka
From the familiar Glico Man neon board to the sizzling sounds of takoyaki, taste the Japanese way of life as you head right into Osaka’s lively street chaos and its magnificent heritage.
JR West Hello Kitty-themed Haruka Express
Getting to Osaka from Kyoto takes about 30 minutes using the JR Haruka Express, which is included in the JR Takayama-Hokuriku Area Pass. This is the same train you can take if you're starting your journey from Kansai International Airport instead. If you're lucky, you might even catch the Hello Kitty-themed train!
#KlookTip: Make the best of your time and money with the Osaka Amazing Pass. Enjoy unlimited rides on local trains and buses as well as free entry to over 40 top attractions in Osaka with this all-in-one pass!
Universal Studios Japan
Attention Super Mario, Harry Potter Fans, Minion Fans, and most importantly, theme park Fans!! You cannot visit Osaka and not make a trip to Universal Studios Japan! We’ve been there numerous times and here's everything new at USJ that you definitely must try to make your visit an unforgettable one!
- Address: 2 Chome-1-33 Sakurajima, Konohana Ward, Osaka
- Admission: Starting from S$83 from Klook
- Opening Hours: Daily 9am to 7pm (Hours may differ daily, refer to their website for the latest)
Kuromon Ichiba Market
Kuromon Ichiba Market is a lively covered street of shops that stretches some 600m. Lined with restaurants and shops selling all sorts of fresh produce, meat and seafood, this market is popular among both locals and visitors.
- Address: 2-4-1, Nipponbashi, Chuo-ku, Osaka
- Opening Hours: Daily 9am to 6pm (Hours may differ from shop to shop)
3. Osaka Castle
The Osaka Castle is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Besides being a museum that houses a great collection of historical materials and artefacts, its top floor is also an observation deck that provides a panoramic view of Osaka and beyond.
The Osaka Castle Park is also a popular hanami spot during the sakura season. You can take a leisurely 20-minute Gozabune boat ride around the castle to take a closer look at the stone walls and see how the park changes with the seasons.
- Address: 1-1 Osakajo, Chuo Ward, Osaka
- Admission: ¥600 (~S$5.50)
- Opening Hours: Daily 9am to 5pm
Solaniwa Onsen
Now that you got your tummy filled, how about some relaxation, Japanese style? Head over to Solaniwa Onsen at Osaka Bay Tower. Here you enjoy any of the 9 bath types including outdoor baths, comprising pure hot spring water from 1,000 meters below the earth’s surface!
There's also an expansive Japanese rooftop garden, where you can enjoy a foot bath in your stylish yukata as you gaze upon the seasonal trees and flowers! This onsen theme park also offers a stone sauna with 7 different rooms, restaurants, a games area, and even a beer garden.
- Address: 1-2-3 Benten, Minato-ku, Osaka
- Admission: Starting from $19.45 on Klook
- Opening Hours: Daily 11am to 11pm
There is just so much more to do in Osaka and the Kansai region! Check out our 7-day Osaka & beyond itinerary for more ideas for your next big Japan adventure!
