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A forest of tall, ancient trees with a group of people observing the scenery. 1
A traditional Japanese castle with multiple tiers, surrounded by a moat and reflecting in the water. 2
Tall trees with green foliage and a clear sky. 3
A forested area with stone lanterns and a staircase leading up a hill. 4
A signpost with Japanese characters, surrounded by trees and a road. 5

Tokyo to Nagoya 3 Day Highlands Tour

By Move Japan
Free cancellation available
Price is NZ$1,188 per adult
See tickets

Features

  • Free cancellation available
  • 3d
  • Mobile voucher
  • Instant confirmation

Overview

This journey explores the heart of Japan’s Central Highlands, combining mountain resorts, sacred temples, forest landscapes, and historic castle towns into one memorable travel experience.

From the elegant highland atmosphere of Karuizawa to the spiritual heritage of Zenko-ji and the ancient forests of Togakushi, travellers will experience a different side of Japan beyond the well-known cities and tourist routes.

One of the unique features of this journey is the balance between structured travel arrangements and personal freedom. Through the MOVE JAPAN route connection system, travellers can comfortably move between regions while still enjoying plenty of free time to explore at their own pace.

The focus of the journey is not simply transport between destinations, but the experience of the journey itself. Mountain roads, forest scenery, rural landscapes, and the changing views of inland Japan are all intentionally included as part of the travel experience.

Activity location

  • Kyukaruizawa Ginza-dori
    • Kyukaruizawa, Karuizawa,
    • Karuizawa-machi, Nagano Prefecture, Japan

Meeting/Redemption Point

  • Tokyo Station
    • 9
    • 100-0005, Chiyoda City, Tokyo, Japan

Check availability

3 Days Forest Post-Town Journey from Nagoya

  • Activity duration is 3 days3d
    3d
  • English
Language options: English
Starting time: 8:00 AM
Price details
NZ$1,188.37 x 1 AdultNZ$1,188.37
Total
Price is NZ$1,188.37

What's included, what's not

  • What's includedWhat's included
    2 nights accommodation
  • What's includedWhat's included
    English-speaking driver/guide support
  • What's includedWhat's included
    Transport throughout the journey
  • What's excludedWhat's excluded
    Lunches and dinners
  • What's excludedWhat's excluded
    Personal expenses
  • What's excludedWhat's excluded
    Service charge

Know before you book

  • Not recommended for travellers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Activity itinerary

Day 1: Tokyo → Karuizawa → Nagano Highlands

  • 2 stops
  • Meals: Not included
  • Accommodation: Toyoko Inn, Nagano or similar hotel

Kyukaruizawa Ginza-dori

  • 1h 30m
Discover the charm of Karuizawa, one of Japan's most popular mountain resort destinations. Surrounded by forests and fresh mountain air, Karuizawa has long been a favourite retreat for visitors seeking a relaxing escape from the city. Guests are free to explore at their own pace. Stroll through the historic Kyu-Karuizawa Ginza Street, known for its boutique shops, bakeries, cafés, and local specialities. Visit the popular Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza, offering a wide range of international and Japanese brands in a scenic outdoor setting. Throughout the year, visitors can enjoy Karuizawa's beautiful seasonal scenery, from fresh greenery in spring and summer to colourful autumn foliage and snowy winter landscapes. Whether you choose to shop, relax at a café, or simply enjoy the peaceful highland atmosphere, Karuizawa offers a refreshing introduction to the natural beauty of Nagano Prefecture.

Nagano

  • 10h
After arriving in Nagano, enjoy a relaxing evening exploring the city at your own pace. Compared with Japan's larger metropolitan areas, Nagano offers a quieter and more authentic atmosphere, where visitors can experience everyday local life surrounded by the beautiful scenery of the Japanese Alps. Guests may choose to explore the lively area around Nagano Station, browse local shops, visit cafés, or enjoy dinner at one of the city's many restaurants and traditional izakayas. Nagano is also known for its regional specialities, including Shinshu soba noodles, local sake, and seasonal mountain cuisine. Whether you prefer shopping, dining, or simply taking an evening stroll, this free time offers an opportunity to experience the relaxed charm and welcoming atmosphere of one of Central Japan's most historic cities.

Day 2: Zenko-ji Temple & Togakushi Highlands

  • 3 stops
  • Meals: breakfast
  • Accommodation: Toyoko Inn, Nagano or similar

Zenko-ji Temple

  • 2h
  • Admission ticket included
Discover one of Japan’s most important Buddhist temples with a history spanning more than 1,400 years. Visitors can admire the impressive main hall and experience the spiritual atmosphere of this sacred pilgrimage site.

Togakushi Shrine Okusha

  • 2h
  • Admission ticket included
Walk through a breathtaking avenue of ancient cedar trees leading to the sacred Togakushi Okusha Shrine. This peaceful forest trail is one of Japan’s most iconic spiritual landscapes.

Togakushi Shrine Okusha

  • 2h
  • Admission ticket included
enjoy the natural beauty of the Togakushi Highlands, known for mountain scenery, pristine forests, and traditional soba culture.

Day 3: Nagano → Narai-juku → Matsumoto → Nagoya

  • 2 stops
  • Meals: breakfast
  • Accommodation: Not included

Narai-juku

  • 1h 30m
Step back in time as you visit Narai-juku, one of the best-preserved post towns along Japan's historic Nakasendo Route, which once connected Kyoto and Edo (Tokyo) during the Edo period. Known as the "Narai of a Thousand Houses," the town retains its traditional atmosphere with beautifully preserved wooden buildings, former inns, merchant houses, and narrow streets that have changed little over the centuries. As you stroll through the village, you'll gain a glimpse into the daily life of travellers who journeyed through Japan hundreds of years ago. Guests are free to explore at their own pace, browse local craft shops, visit traditional cafés, sample regional specialities, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of this historic mountain town. The combination of preserved architecture, cultural heritage, and scenic setting makes Narai-juku one of the most authentic historic destinations in Central Japan.

Matsumoto Castle

  • 2h
Explore the historic city of Matsumoto, nestled at the foot of the Japanese Alps and renowned for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful mountain scenery. The city's most famous landmark is Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan's oldest surviving original castles and a designated National Treasure. Known as the "Crow Castle" for its striking black exterior, it is considered one of the country's most beautiful historic castles. Guests are free to explore the charming streets surrounding the castle, including traditional shopping areas, local cafés, and historic merchant districts. The city offers a unique blend of history, culture, and everyday local life, making it one of the most attractive destinations in the Japanese Alps region. Whether you're interested in architecture, history, photography, or simply enjoying the relaxed atmosphere of a traditional Japanese castle town, Matsumoto provides a memorable glimpse into Japan's past.

Location

Activity location

  • LOB_ACTIVITIESLOB_ACTIVITIES
    Kyukaruizawa Ginza-dori
    • Kyukaruizawa, Karuizawa,
    • Karuizawa-machi, Nagano Prefecture, Japan

Meeting/Redemption Point

  • PEOPLEPEOPLE
    Tokyo Station
    • 9
    • 100-0005, Chiyoda City, Tokyo, Japan

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