Japan | Nagoya × Hokuriku 7 Days 6 Nights

From Urban Charm to Mountain Splendor, A Summer Journey Full of Warmth and Scenery This journey begins in Nagoya, the gateway to the Chubu region, and connects several of my favorite towns and mountain landscapes in Hokuriku. From urban rhythms and old-town charm to lingering snow in the mountains and natural healing, this 7-day, 6-night itinerary is relaxed and unhurried, perfect for first-time visitors to the Hokuriku area. Day 1 | Arrival in Nagoya: Urban Warm-Up 📍 Itinerary: Nagoya Castle, Chubu Electric Power Tower, Sakae District 🍽 Must-Try: One of Nagoya's specialties, "Hitsumabushi" (grilled eel rice) The journey starts in bustling Nagoya. Spend the afternoon exploring Nagoya Castle and the Sakae District, and enjoy a dinner of grilled eel rice at a famous local restaurant. The thick, aromatic grilled eel paired with fragrant rice is truly a treat. Day 2 | Takayama: Strolling the Old Streets and Savoring Hida Beef 📍 Transportation: Take the "Hida" Limited Express directly to Takayama 📍 Itinerary: Miyagawa Morning Market, Takayama Old Town, Hida Beef Sushi The quaint "Little Kyoto" of Takayama retains its charm even in light rain. Stroll through the old streets, savor miso and Hida beef sushi, and bring back some delightful souvenirs to your accommodation. Day 3 | Shirakawa-go: A Fairytale World Amidst Greenery 📍 Transportation: Take a bus from Takayama directly to Shirakawa-go 📍 Itinerary: UNESCO World Heritage Gassho-style Village Visiting Shirakawa-go in summer, you'll find lush greenery and lingering snow on distant mountains. Strolling under the thatched roofs while enjoying ice cream feels like stepping into a serene picture book. Day 4 | Tateyama Kurobe: June's Snow Wall Spectacle 📍 Transportation: Transfer from Takayama to Tateyama Station, then take the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route 📍 Itinerary: Murodo Snow Wall, Daikanbo Even in June, you can still witness the tail end of the magnificent snow walls. The journey transitions from greenery to snow through cable cars and tunnel buses, as if crossing seasonal boundaries. Day 5 | Toyama: A Quiet City Tour + Travel Day 📍 Transportation: Take the tram in Toyama City 📍 Itinerary: Strolling Toyama City, street-side cafes, take the Shinkansen to Kyoto Discover the rhythm of life in Toyama by exploring its streets and enjoying a light meal at a local bakery. In the afternoon, board the Shinkansen to Kyoto to begin the second half of the journey. Day 6 | Kyoto: Half-Day Leisurely Exploration 📍 Transportation: Kyoto Station → Ramen Alley → Kinkaku-ji (via train + bus) 📍 Itinerary: Kinkaku-ji, Kyoto Station's architectural beauty Have lunch at Kyoto Station's Ramen Alley, then head to the shimmering Kinkaku-ji. Bask in the golden glow of the summer afternoon and quietly admire the elegance of the ancient capital. Day 7 | Return to Nagoya: Wrapping Up the Journey 📍 Transportation: Take the Shinkansen from Kyoto back to Nagoya, then prepare to fly back home Board the familiar Shinkansen from Kyoto to Nagoya, concluding this journey that traversed cities and mountains. The trip ends with a photo album full of cherished memories. 🔖 Tips: • Summer temperatures in Hokuriku can vary greatly between morning and evening, so remember to bring a light jacket. • Consider purchasing the "Takayama-Hokuriku Area Tourist Pass," which covers JR trains and some buses—it's very cost-effective. • Check the weather in advance for Shirakawa-go and Tateyama Kurobe to ensure smoother itinerary planning.