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Golden Route

The Golden Route is the most popular route that tourists take on their first visit to Japan. Taking the same route that linked Japan's former capital 'Kyoto' with it's successor 'Tokyo', the Golden Route is an easily accessible route from both Kansai International Airport in Osaka, and Narita/Haneda International Airports in Tokyo.

Major attractions on the Golden Route include the bustling metropolis of Tokyo, the beautiful Mt. Fuji, the hot spring resort town Hakone, and Kyoto, the heart of Japanese history and culture.

Tokyo

There is no other place in the world where you will find so much contrast. In Tokyo, the past and the present co-exist in such close proximity. Take a leisurely stroll down the gravel path that leads you to the tranquil Meiji Shrine. Surrounded by towering trees you will forget you are in a bustling city of 30 million people. A short walk down the road brings you to Harajuku, a fashion capital and very popular hangout for the young generation. Crowded roads are now lined with high-rise buildings and shops playing loud music. This is just one example of the unrivalled diversity you will find while exploring Tokyo.

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Mt. Fuji and Hakone

Leave the city that never sleeps to take time out in the most beautiful landscape that can only be found in Hakone and Mt. Fuji. You may choose to challenge yourself and climb to the top of Mt. Fuji to enjoy the sunrise and surreal views, or you may stick to soaking in the hot mineral waters of a hot spring bath while gazing out to Japan's tallest mountain. The Japanese love a good, hot bath and the amazing array of different baths will just take you away. After soaking in a bath Japanese style, you will have experienced an essential part of Japanese culture and as well as being revitalised, you'll be hooked!

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Kyoto

Home to many national treasures and traditions, you can experience the essence of Japanese art and culture in this town of 1 million people. This town is bursting with history. From ancient castles, to temples, shrines, and serene stone gardens, Kyoto is the Japan you have been dreaming of. With a new adventure just around the corner and an intriguing piece of history, you will never be bored in Kyoto. From Kyoto you can also take a short trip on the train down to Osaka and Nara where you can find more stunning forms of architecture and enjoy delicious cuisine exclusive to these cities.
From Osaka you can finish your tour but it is also recommended to take the time to extend your tour with a trip to Hiroshima. Awaiting you in Hiroshima is a unique experience that will open your eyes to the power of nuclear weapons. It is highly recommended you visit the Peace Memorial Park, home of the Atomic Bomb Dome(the only building that miraculously withstood the blast of the Atomic bomb). The Peace Museum gives visitors a very good idea of the damage an Atomic Bomb can do. Just a short ferry ride from Hiroshima is Miyajima Island. Here you can find Itsukushima Shrine, World Heritage Site and the home of the floating Torii gates. The Shrine is a perfect combination of Japanese architecture and natural beauty.

Travel Japan by H.I.S. has several escorted tours that travel these routes. Having an English speaking guide to explain the intricacies of Japanese culture and food while on tour makes your experience in Japan much more enjoyable.
Please refer to these links for some of our recommended tours that take the 'Golden Route'

Alternatively, if you are on a budget and would rather travel the 'Golden Route' on your own, we would recommend purchasing a Rail Pass through H.I.S. to get you around the country. For more information and pricing of our rail passes click here Japan Rail Pass.

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