For those who want to go beyond the classic four-city loop, this 14-night Japan Golden Route is the best way to experience Japan's Highlights in one trip. Alongside Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and Hakone, this extended itinerary adds the alpine charm of Takayama and the moving history of Hiroshima. Hotels are hand-picked and centrally located throughout, rail transfers are arranged between every stop, and the whole route is tailor-made by a Charter Travel specialist around your pace - Charter Travel are leading Japan holiday specialists, established in 1988. ABTA and ATOL Protected.
Duration: 14 Nights
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Itinerary Highlights:
Based on 2 adults sharing.
A 14-Night Japan Golden Route itinerary connects Japan's must-see destinations: Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hakone, Hiroshima and Takayama in one amazing holiday! This itinerary offer a mix of modern and old Japan, with rail transfers between each stop, and hand-picked, centrally located hotels so you will be ideally located for all your exploring. There is also the option to add on a trip to Disneyland Tokyo / Universal Resort Japan!
Charter Travel have specialised in tailor-made Japan holidays since 1988, with first-hand destination knowledge, long-standing relationships with the hotels and airlines. Every Japan holiday is planned by a dedicated specialist who adjusts the route, pace and accommodation to suit you, rather than selling a fixed, one-size-fits-all package. All holidays booked with Charter Travel are both ABTA and ATOL protected, so you can book with confidence that your trip is fully financially protected. A UK-based team remains on hand before, during and after your holiday, so support is always a phone call away.
Stay at Park Hotel Tokyo
Begin your journey in the heart of Tokyo with 3 nights at the stylish Park Hotel Tokyo, offering a great base for experiencing the capital's fascinating blend of tradition and innovation. Wander through centuries-old temple districts, discover peaceful gardens hidden among skyscrapers, explore shopping neighbourhoods, and enjoy the city's renowned food scene. Whether you're watching the organised chaos of Shibuya, taking in panoramic views over the skyline or uncovering tucked-away local gems, Tokyo provides an unforgettable introduction to Japan.
A scenic rail transfer takes you from Tokyo into Takayama.
Stay at Mercure Hida Takayama
After the bright lights of the city, slow the pace with two nights at Mercure Hida Takayama, a stylish hotel just a short walk from Takayama Station. Spend your time exploring the beautifully preserved Old Town, browsing morning markets, visiting traditional sake breweries and sampling the region's famous Hida beef. Back at the hotel, unwind in the onsen before another day discovering the charm of Japan's alpine heartland.
Stay at The Royal Park Canvas Kyoto Nijo
Spend three nights in Japan's cultural capital, staying within easy reach of the city's iconic temples and tranquil gardens. Explore hidden alleyways lined with traditional wooden machiya houses, discover peaceful Zen gardens, and visit centuries-old shrines tucked beneath towering cedar trees. As evening falls, wander lantern-lit streets where geishas still make their way to appointments, before enjoying Kyoto's celebrated dining scene, from intimate kaiseki restaurants to bustling local izakayas.
Stay at Hotel Intergate Hiroshima
Spend a night in Hiroshima at Hotel Intergate Hiroshima, a comfortable base for discovering one of Japan's most poignant and historically significant cities. Visit the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, see the iconic Atomic Bomb Dome, and take time to reflect on Hiroshima's remarkable story of resilience. There's also the chance to sample local specialities such as Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki or take a short trip to Miyajima Island to admire the famous floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine.
Stay at The Royal Park Canvas, Osaka Kitahama
Two nights at The Royal Park Canvas Osaka Kitahama place you in a stylish riverside neighbourhood, perfectly positioned for discovering Osaka's mix of modern energy and historic charm. Explore the city's vibrant food scene, from lively izakayas to famous street food stalls, visit the impressive Osaka Castle, browse the shops of Shinsaibashi and Dotonbori, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the Kitahama district with its cafés, riverside walks and contemporary dining spots.
Stay at Hakone Yutowa
Leave the city behind for two nights in Hakone Yutowa, a peaceful retreat surrounded by the mountains, forests and natural beauty of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Relax in traditional onsen baths, explore the shores of Lake Ashi, ride the Hakone Ropeway across the volcanic landscapes of Owakudani, and visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum with its impressive collection of outdoor artworks. On clear days, keep an eye out for breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, while the region's scenic trails, local cuisine and tranquil atmosphere offer a perfect escape into Japan's countryside.
Stay at Park Hotel Tokyo
Finish your 14 night Japan Golden Route with one last night in Tokyo. Make the most of your last night by exploring one of Tokyo's distinctive neighbourhoods at your own pace, enjoying dinner at a local izakaya, browsing late-night shops, or finding a quiet spot to reflect on an unforgettable adventure through Japan.
Japan's Golden Route suits any season, but spring (late March–April) for cherry blossoms and autumn (November) for spectacular fall colours are the most popular times to travel. For a more affordable option, consider visiting during January or February.
All our holidays are tailor-made and can be adapted by changing hotels durations and destinations to suit the individuals tastes and requirements – please do get in touch so we can start planning.
The 14-night Japan Golden Route covers the same core cities as the 10-night version - Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and Hakone - but adds two extra destinations: Takayama and Hiroshima. The extra four nights allow for a slower pace overall and a much broader picture of Japan, from alpine old towns to coastal history.
Yes. Takayama offers a quieter, more traditional side of Japan, with a well-preserved Old Town, morning markets, sake breweries and the regional speciality of Hida beef. It's a good contrast to the pace of Tokyo and Kyoto, and this itinerary includes 2 nights there at Mercure Hida Takayama.
This itinerary includes Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hakone, Hiroshima & Takayama.
Travel between Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hakone, Hiroshima & Takayama is by rail transfer.
Hiroshima adds historical depth to the trip, with the Peace Memorial Park and Museum and the Atomic Bomb Dome. Many travellers also take a short trip to Miyajima Island to see the floating torii gate at Itsukushima Shrine. One night is included at Hotel Intergate Hiroshima, enough time to see the city's key sites.
Yes. This 14-night Golden Route can include an optional add-on day at Tokyo Disneyland or Universal Studios Japan, ideal for families or anyone wanting a day of theme park thrills alongside the cultural and historic stops.
Not for this route. Fourteen nights gives realistic time to properly explore six destinations without constant packing and unpacking, including 3 nights each in Tokyo and Kyoto and 2 nights in Takayama, Osaka and Hakone.
Yes, return International flights are included.
Yes. Holidays booked through Charter Travel are ABTA and ATOL protected, and each trip is planned by a dedicated Japan specialist with a UK-based team available before, during and after your holiday.
No. All hotels and rail transfers between Tokyo, Takayama, Kyoto, Hiroshima, Osaka and Hakone are included and pre-arranged as part of this 14-night package.
