Wakayama: Japan's Spiritual Heartland
From the Kumano Sanzan route to the mountain temples of Koyasan
From the Kumano Sanzan route to the
the mountain temples of Koyasan
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Discover Japan's Northward Golden Route

Head north of Tokyo to discover Gunma, Saitama and Niigata

The Rugby World Cup is just around the corner and we’re sure you would like to escape from the buzz of Tokyo between matches.

Grab a train pass and head north along Japan's Northward Golden Route, which spans Saitama, Gunma and Niigata prefectures. If you enjoy nature, a bit of history and hot springs, then consider exploring these new destinations with great access from Tokyo.

Saitama
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Explore Saitama with the JR TOKYO Wide Pass

The beautiful scenery of Nagatoro, the delectable local sake and food of Chichibu, the vintage atmosphere of “Little Edo” in Kawagoe, Saitama, is easily accessible from Tokyo. In this feature, we introduce a model course in Saitama for you to enjoy three fun-filled days.

Discover Saitama
gunma
02 / 03 - Gunma

Explore Gunma Using the JR TOKYO Wide Pass

Home to the lush green marshlands of Oze; the mysterious night scenes of Kusatsu Onsen; and the historic Tomioka Silk Mill, Gunma is surprisingly accessible from central Tokyo.

Discover Gunma
Niigata
03 / 03 - Niigata

© Tunnel of Light, Ma Yansong/MAD Architects, Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale

Explore Niigata Using the JR EAST PASS

In this feature, we introduce a model course for you to enjoy three fun-filled days in Niigata. From terraced rice fields to the Sea of Japan, from art installations dotting the landscape to a rich variety of sake, Niigata, often referred to as "snow country," is a delight to visit throughout the year.

Discover Niigata

Route in photos


Rugby World Cup 2019

20 SEPTEMBER – 2 NOVEMBER 2019

All eyes will be on Japan in 2019 as it prepares to be the first Asian nation to host the Rugby World Cup tournament.

It's under a year to go until the tournament kicks off, when Japan—aka the Brave Blossoms—will take on Russia at Tokyo Stadium on September 20th hoping to repeat the heroics of their famous victory against the Springboks in 2015.

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