Japan 5-Day Trip: Tokyo & the Alps to Kanazawa
Tokyo's core, then the alpine route north: Takayama's old town, Shirakawa-go's thatched roofs and Kanazawa's gardens.
Trip overview
- The thatched gassho roofs
- Kenrokuen at opening
- The alpine limited express
Best time to visit
April–June and October–November are ideal; winter turns Shirakawa-go into a snow-globe.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1 · Tokyo — east & west
- 🏯08:30Senso-ji; Meiji and Shibuya
- 🏯
Day 2 · Tokyo — center
- 🍣08:30Tsukiji, Ginza, the towers
- 🍣
Day 3 · To Takayama
- 🚞09:00The limited express through the Alps
- 🍶14:00Takayama's old town & sake breweries
- 🚞
Day 4 · Shirakawa-go & Kanazawa
- 🏘️08:30The thatched gassho village
- 🏮16:00Kanazawa's Higashi Chaya at dusk
- 🏘️
Day 5 · Kanazawa — Kenrokuen
- 🏞️08:00Kenrokuen at opening & Komatsu
- 🏞️
Budget
Estimated total cost: 640 USD for 5 days.
Includes accommodation, local transport, food, and activities. International flights not included.
Travel tips
- April–June and October–November are ideal; winter turns Shirakawa-go into a snow-globe.
- Carry local currency for small eateries and street food; cards are widely accepted in cities.
- Book popular restaurants in advance during peak season.
- Use public transit where possible — most stops in Tokyo are tourist-friendly.
Recommended restaurants
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