Exploring Japan using the Hokuriku Arch Pass is an incredible way to see a different side of this beautiful country. Having used this pass myself last February 2024, I discovered its benefits firsthand when I explored Central Japan and then traveled to Tokyo for Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour. The pass made my journey seamless and cost-effective, allowing me to experience a range of stunning destinations. Here’s my detailed Hokuriku Arch Pass Itinerary for 11-days from Osaka to Tokyo.
Short on time? Here’s the 11-day Hokuriku Arch Pass itinerary. The first version is a trip that starts and ends in Osaka. The other version is a trip that starts and ends in Tokyo.
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Planning your first trip to Japan?
While you can certainly use this Hokuriku Arch Pass itinerary for your first trip to Japan, I suggest checking out my Japan Itinerary for First-Time Visitors as well. That post is tailored specifically for first timers and includes destinations I highly recommend for a memorable first visit. It also includes the best train passes, hotel recommendations, and more!
What is Hokuriku Arch Pass?
The Hokuriku Arch Pass is a special rail pass designed for foreign tourists visiting Japan. It offers unlimited travel on JR trains, including the Hokuriku Shinkansen, for a consecutive 7-day period. This pass covers a route that includes popular destinations such as Osaka, Kyoto, Kanazawa, Toyama, Nagano, and Tokyo. It serves as a great alternative to the Japan Rail Pass, especially since the latter has seen a significant price increase. The Hokuriku Arch Pass is ideal for travelers looking to explore the Hokuriku region and connect to major cities across Japan.
Hokuriku Arch Pass vs. Japan Rail Pass and Other Rail Passes
When comparing the Hokuriku Arch Pass to other rail passes like the Japan Rail Pass, it’s essential to consider their coverage. I opted for the Hokuriku Arch Pass because my flight is round trip from Manila to Osaka, requiring me to return to Osaka after my stay in Tokyo. My Hokuriku Arch Pass Itinerary centers around exploring Kanazawa, Shirakawa-go, and Nagano. Having already visited Osaka, Kyoto, and Tokyo on multiple occasions, I decided to focus on discovering Hokuriku this time.
Update: As of March 16, 2024, you can travel on the Hokuriku Shinkansen all the way to Fukui Prefecture. Please note that the Hokuriku Arch Pass price has increased from 24,500 yen to 30,000 yen.
| Pass | Coverage | Duration | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hokuriku Arch Pass | Hokuriku Shinkansen, JR trains in Hokuriku region, Osaka, Kyoto, Tokyo | 7 days | 30,000 yen |
| Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) | Nationwide: All JR trains (including shinkansen), some buses | 7 days (14 & 21 days avail.) | 50,000 yen |
| JR Kansai-Hokuriku Area Pass | Kansai, Hokuriku regions, limited express trains, Osaka, Kyoto, Kanazawa | 7 days | 19,000 yen |
| JR East Nagano & Niigata Area Pass | Nagano, Niigata regions, limited express trains | 5 days | 27,000 yen |
Our 11-Day Hokuriku Arch Pass Itinerary
Arrival in Osaka (Day 1)
Our flight from Manila to Osaka was scheduled for around 7 in the morning, so we arrived at Kansai International Airport (KIX) by noon. By 1 PM, we were already at Hiyori Hotel, where we quickly left our luggage to start exploring the city. Our first order of business was a late lunch at Gyukatsu Motomura. Thankfully, it was already 2 PM, and there were no long lines. The gyukatsu was worth every bit of hype, and it was a perfect start of our Japan adventure.
After a satisfying meal, we decided to go thrift shopping in Namba. Thrift shopping in Namba is an adventure in itself, with countless unique finds and bargains. Since we were going to Central Japan, we also stopped by Uniqlo and GU to get winter gear. If you are traveling to Japan during winter, these stores are ideal for purchasing your winter essentials as the prices are relatively affordable.
For dinner, we did a DIY food tour in Dotonbori, sampling some of the viral food spots we had seen on TikTok. My friends and I bought Takoyaki (do not miss this when in this area), Melon Pan with vanilla ice cream, 10 yen coin cheese pancake, and Rikuro jiggly cheesecake. We ended the night with a visit to a nearby konbini (convenience store), which quickly became our nightly ritual in Japan.
Osaka to Kanazawa (Day 2)
On the second day, we started with breakfast at a nearby izakaya. After breakfast, we made our way to Osaka Station and then to Shin-Osaka Station. There, we purchased one-way tickets for the limited express train to Kanazawa Station. My friends and I decided not to activate our Hokuriku Arch Pass yet, opting to save it for later in our trip.
The journey to Kanazawa was fast, and the views were insane. Since it was winter, we were treated to breathtaking scenes of snow-covered mountains. Upon arrival at Kanazawa Station, we made our way to Soki Kanazawa, which would be our home away from home for the next three days.
We didn’t have any specific plans for the day, so we decided to explore Omicho Market, aka the “Kitchen of Kanazawa.” Established during the Edo Period, Omicho Market has been a cornerstone of Kanazawa’s food culture for over 300 years. When planning my Hokuriku Arch Pass itinerary, I included this market simply because it was conveniently located right across from our hotel. Little did I know that it would become the highlight of my stay in Kanazawa.
Kanazawa (Day 3)
On day 3, my friends and I began the day at Omicho Market (again, lol!). I absolutely love this place, and we ended up stopping here every day of our three-day stay. It’s perfect for meals any time of day—breakfast, lunch, or dinner—with an abundance of fresh seafood. After breakfast, we set out to explore Kanazawa’s top attractions, including Kenrokuen Garden, Kanazawa Castle Ruins, Nomura Ke Samurai Residence, and finally, the Higashi Chaya District.
Shirakawa-go Day Trip from Kanazawa (Day 4)
On day 4, my friends and I woke up early to catch our bus to Shirakawa-go. I had hoped to book an overnight stay in one of the gassho zukuri farm houses, but unfortunately, our visit coincided with the Shirakawa-go Winter Light-up 2024, so everything was fully booked. Even the bus ride to town was fully booked, but fortunately, we managed to secure three seats for a round trip from Kanazawa Station.
During our brief 4-hour visit to Shirakawa-go, the snow was falling heavily. Despite the challenging weather, we persisted and ascended to Ogimachi Castle Observation Point, where we were treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the snow-covered gassho zukuri houses below. This was my third visit to Shirakawa-go, yet each time I come, it still feels as magical as the first.
Tips for First Time Visitors
If it’s your first visit to Shirakawa-go, make sure not to miss the observation deck—it should be your first stop. If time allows, visit one of the farmhouses such as Wada House, the largest and one of the most significant in the village, designated as an Important Cultural Property. Don’t forget to pick up souvenirs like Sarubobo dolls and indulge in local street food favorites such as Hida beef skewers, beef korokke, steamed buns stuffed with Hida beef, and Gohei Mochi. And if you have extra time, consider staying overnight in Shirakawa-go. Just make to sure book in advanced at the official website of Shirakawa-go Tourist Association.
Kanazawa to Nagano (Day 5)
Since Kanazawa Station is only 1 hour and 6 minutes away from Nagano Station by bullet train, we didn’t have to wake up really early on day 5. We spent the morning doing laundry (100 yen per load) and enjoying the onsen one last time. Seriously, the onsen at Soki Kanazawa was one of the highlights of our stay. I couldn’t believe we paid less than 5,000 pesos per night for this hotel. After self-checking out around lunchtime, we made our way to Kanazawa Station, where we enjoyed ramen.
We arrived at Nagano Station in the afternoon. It was dark and snowing heavily. Fortunately, I hadn’t scheduled anything for this day, as it would have been a pain to cancel plans due to the snowstorm. We decided to try some of Nagano’s specialties like Sauce Katsudon and Shinano Gold apple juice at the station. After our early dinner, we checked into Hotel Courtland, conveniently located right across from the station.
Nagano (Day 6)
Our journey to Togakushi Shrine was a beautifully chaotic adventure. I really thought it was a literal walk in the park, but I was wrong. Thanks to the snowstorm the day prior. I almost backed out because I wasn’t wearing boots high enough for the snow. Aside from that, the absence of English signage added to the difficulty. We navigated uncertainly through knee-deep snow, unsure if we were on the right path to the majestic cedar trees and Togakushi Shrine.
Our only guideposts were faint footsteps in the snow and distant figures, likely fellow travelers. Holding onto hope, we pressed onward, determined to reach the shrine. I’m grateful I was traveling with my friends. Without them, I might not have mustered the courage to go on.
How to get to Togakushi Shrine from Nagano Station
From Nagano Station, take bus #70 or #71 to the Okusha stop. The travel time is approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes. During winter, get off at the Chusha stop and continue on foot for 1.5 KM to the Okusha trailhead. One way bus fare from Nagano Station is 1,450 yen.
How to pay for bus rides to/from Togakushi Shrine
If you’ve traveled to other prefectures in Japan, you probably have an IC card that you use for transportation and other purposes. Unfortunately, those IC cards are not accepted in Nagano. We couldn’t use our Icoca and Suica cards, so we had to pay the bus driver in cash before getting off the front door. If you don’t have the exact fare, you can use the change machines next to the fare box. Notes of 2,000 yen, 5,000 yen, and 10,000 yen cannot be exchanged.
Alpico Group, Nagano’s leading bus operator, offers intercity and sightseeing bus routes that connect Nagano’s various tourist spots to other major cities. The company has its own IC card called Kururu, which is the only IC that you can use in buses to Togakushi Shrine.
Nagano to Tokyo (Day 7)
On day 7, we woke up early to head to Nagano Station. We hadn’t purchased bus tickets for Snow Monkey Park in advance, so we queued up at the bus stop. Fortunately, we were first on the line for the first bus at 8:15 AM. The journey took approximately an hour, with a one-way bus fare of 1,800 yen. We were on a tight schedule because it was the first day of Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour at Tokyo Dome, and we needed to catch the bullet train back to Tokyo at exactly 2 PM that same day. The anticipation of seeing the Snow Monkeys mixed with the rush of our journey to Tokyo stressed me out a little. lol.
After attending the Eras Tour concert at Tokyo Dome, I retrieved all my belongings from Myogadani subway station. Initially, I planned to leave them at the station next to Tokyo Dome (Korakuen), but it was full, so I had to take the subway to the next stop. Fortunately, I found space available there. From that station, I traveled to Ginza Station and transferred to the Asakusa Line, which took me to Asakusa Station. The Hostel Chapter Two Tokyo is just a 5-minute walk from there.
Tokyo (Day 8)
On day 8, it was time for another “healing my inner child” moment. The Warner Bros Studio Tour Tokyo — The Making of Harry Potter is an absolute must-visit for any Harry Potter fan. As the second Warner Bros Studio Tour in the world, much of its charm echoes the iconic first studio in London. Having experienced both the Tokyo and London locations, I can say that each one offers a unique and memorable experience. I distinctly remember being moved to tears when I first laid eyes on the life-size Hogwarts in the Harry Potter Studio Tour in London. Revisiting it in Tokyo fills me with profound gratitude and excitement all over again.
Travel Tip: Book your activities with Klook and get up to 5% off when you use my code PROJECTGORAKLOOK.
Tokyo (Day 9)
On day 9, it was my second time attending Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour at Tokyo Dome (it’s different each time, trust me, lol). Feeling sore from the long walks the previous day, I opted to stay in and rest. Meanwhile, my friends ventured out to explore the Asakusa neighborhood. We reunited at lunchtime and headed to Tokyo Dome together. Arriving early, we took the opportunity to grab a meal and do some shopping before the concert.
After the concert, I returned to Asakusa (friend 1 went to Shinjuku and friend 2 went to Ginza). I quickly grabbed dinner and then headed for some late-night shopping at Don Quijote (Donki). I ended up purchasing a new suitcase for my Europe trip and also bought some skincare products. Exhausted from the day’s events, I opted to take a taxi back to the hostel. Taxis in Japan are reasonably priced for short distances, making it a convenient choice for travelers. From Donki Asakusa to Asakusa Station, I only paid 500 yen.
Back to Osaka (Day 10)
We started the day early, knowing it was our last day in Tokyo before heading back to Osaka. We began by exploring Asakusa and embarked on a DIY food tour to try some food we saw on TikTok. After visiting Nakamise Street and Sensō-ji temple, we enjoyed brunch at a place called Komagata Dojo. Established in 1801, Komagata Dojo is renowned for its specialty dish, dojo-nabe (loach hot pot). Later in the afternoon, we took a taxi back to the hostel.
Around 3 PM, we caught another taxi to Ueno Station, where we boarded the bullet train back to Osaka via Kanazawa Station (now transferring at Tsuruga Station). Despite the long journey, the train ride was comfortable. We arrived at Osaka Station just before midnight and were relieved that Hiyori Hotel didn’t cancel our reservation – what a relief!
Departure from Osaka (Day 11)
Our last day in Japan was dedicated to last-minute shopping and organizing our luggage to avoid overpacking (and the extra fees that come with it, haha). From Namba Station, we hopped on the commuter train to Kansai International Airport (KIX). It was a fast, affordable, and reliable journey.
The Hokuriku Arch Pass has been incredibly helpful for this trip. It’s a great alternative to the JR Pass, which is quite expensive. If you’re planning to visit Kanazawa and Nagano, as well as Osaka, Kyoto, and Tokyo, I highly recommend this pass.
Total train fare covered by Hokuriku Arch Pass was 38,280 yen (Hokuriku Arch Pass is only 24,500 yen at that time)
Total Savings: 13,780 yen
Our Hotels On This Trip
For this trip, here are our hotel selections. I spent hours finding the best places to stay based on the number of days we’ll be in each city and our itinerary. All of the hotels listed below offer excellent access to public transportation and dining options. They are also budget-friendly, so if you follow my Hokuriku Arch Pass Itinerary, consider booking these accommodations.
Hiyori Hotel Osaka Namba
Hiyori Hotel is conveniently located in the Shinsaibashi, Namba area, just 200 meters from Nankai Namba Station and 850 meters from Dotonbori’s iconic Glico Man. The location is perfect as it offers a direct connection to Kansai International Airport (KIX). The commuter train to and from the airport stops here, so you don’t need to take a cab to reach the hotel.
Soki Kanazawa
Soki Kanazawa is a 4-star hotel in Kanazawa, conveniently located just 1.3 kilometers from Kanazawa Station. What convinced me to book our stay here was its close proximity to Omicho Market—right across the street! Additionally, the hotel features an amazing onsen (hot spring bath) that guests can use for free.
Hotel Courtland Nagano
Hotel Courtland is located just a 2-minute walk from the east exit of Nagano Station, literally right across from the station. While it’s a straightforward business hotel without any frills, it offers everything you need for a comfortable stay. The prime location means you won’t need a cab to get here, and there are numerous dining options nearby. Additionally, there’s a 7-Eleven right next door for your convenience.
Hostel Chapter Two Tokyo
The hostel is just 5-minute walk from Asakusa Station, with stunning views of the Sumida River and Tokyo Skytree. The views from the rooms are spectacular, particularly at night and in the early morning. Although it’s a budget-friendly option with no luxury amenities, it provides a comfortable place to relax after a day of exploring Tokyo.
Tips on Transfers at Tsuruga Station
Transferring at Tsuruga Station can be a bit challenging. It involves taking two long escalators and walking about 100 meters, including passing through one ticket gate. Some connections allow only 8 minutes for the transfer, while others provide more time.
If you can manage your suitcases on the escalators and are comfortable walking a few hundred meters, you should be able to complete the transfer in 8 minutes. Keep your ticket and car number handy to ensure you take the correct escalators leading to your car. If you need to use the elevators, be prepared for possible delays.
To make your transfer easy, remember that the Shinkansen platform is on the 3rd floor. This platform is for bullet trains heading to Fukui, Kanazawa, and all the way to Tokyo. The limited express train platform is on the 1st floor, serving trains going to Kyoto and Osaka.
Staying connected in Japan
For this Japan trip, I decided to use Airalo eSIM. It provided a seamless internet connection, making it effortless to navigate Japan and stay in touch with friends and family back home. There are tons of options for eSIMs and pocket WiFi in Japan, but I’m here to make it easier for you with this recommendation. For just $18, you get 10GB of data valid for 30 days. Although they don’t offer unlimited data for Japan, topping up my data through the app toward the end of my trip was quick and easy. I highly recommend Airalo eSIM to light and moderate data users.
Get 10% off eSIMs at Airalo with my code PROJECTGORA!
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I hope you found this Hokuriku Arch Pass Itinerary helpful in planning your trip. Japan is truly a magical place to explore. If you have any comments, suggestions or questions, let’s chat down below! I always enjoy hearing from you!
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One reply on “Hokuriku Arch Pass Itinerary: Explore Japan from Osaka to Tokyo”
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