Japan Alps Grand Circle

Japan Alps Grand Circle is a 9-day small-group tour exploring Nagoya, Magome, Tsumago, Narai-juku, Matsumoto, Kamikochi, Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, Kurobe Gorge. The program is designed to introduce the destination through a practical mix of guided sightseeing, local experiences and well-planned travel between each stop. Explore historic trails, charming post towns, and breathtaking alpine landscapes that reveal Japan's untouched beauty.

Walk the Nakasendo Trail, marvel at Matsumoto Castle, and take in the pristine beauty of Kamikochi. Ride the scenic Kurobe Gorge trolley train and traverse the iconic Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, famous for its towering Snow Walls. Tour highlights include explore the cultural cityscape of Nagoya; walk the historic Nakasendo Trail between Magome and Tsumago; visit the iconic Matsumoto Castle; discover Kamikochi’s alpine beauty.

The day-by-day itinerary moves from Arrive in Nagoya through Matsumoto – Shinanoomachi through Takayama -Nagoya, giving the journey a clear sense of progression while allowing time to appreciate the character of each place. Published inclusions cover 8 nights’ quality accommodation in 3-4 star hotels and lodges with daily breakfast; All transfers and transportation in a private, comfortable vehicle; Daily breakfast, 2 dinners as specified in the itinerary; English-speaking guide on days of tour. With a moderately paced itinerary and experiences centred on back to nature, cultural and authentic, family, the tour suits travellers who value an organised holiday without losing sight of the places and experiences that make the region distinctive.

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Japan Alps Tour - Kamikochi Discover Kamikochi’s alpine beauty

Nakasendo Trail was the route to the old capital of Kyoto.

What’s included in the tour

Accommodation

8 nights’ quality accommodation in 3-4 star hotels and lodges with daily breakfast

Tranportation

All transfers and transportation in a private, comfortable vehicle

Meals

Daily breakfast, 2 dinners as specified in the itinerary

Professional Guides

English-speaking guide on days of tour

Entrance fees to all attractions as per the itinerary

All major entrance fees included - Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route tickets - Kurobe Gorge trolley train tickets

Matsumoto in Shinshu

Part of the Nagano (also known as Shinshu) province, Matsumoto is high above the city bustle, with clear, fresh air and activities for outdoor lovers. Especially beautiful is its Norikura Kogen highlands, with the misty Norikura mountain range, relaxing hot springs, and premium, fresh food.

Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route

The Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route traverses the Northern Alps, connecting Tateyama Station in Toyama Prefecture with Ogizawa Station in Nagano Prefecture. It stretches 37.2 kilometres in total, with a maximum elevation difference of 1,975 metres — a truly spectacular mountain sightseeing route.

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Tour Highlights

Nagoya

Explore the cultural cityscape of Nagoya

Nakasendo Trail

Walk the historic Nakasendo Trail between Magome and Tsumago

Matsumoto Castle

Visit the iconic Matsumoto Castle

Kamikochi

Discover Kamikochi’s alpine beauty

Kurobe Gorge

Ride the scenic Kurobe Gorge Trolley Train

Tour Map & Dates

Japan Alps Tour

Departure Dates

2026 - 2027: Travel only from May to October. Daily Arrivals

Or Call Us On:

AU: 1300 842 688

NZ: 0800 842 688

Tour Itinerary

Upon arrival train station, transfer to your hotel and settle in. Enjoy some free time to explore Nagoya’s vibrant cityscape, famous for its samurai heritage, bustling shopping districts, and modern architecture.

Magome to Tsumago – Step back in time as you walk the historic Nakasendo Trail, linking the beautifully preserved Edo-era post towns of Magome and Tsumago. Wander the cobblestone paths, admire traditional wooden houses, and experience the timeless charm of rural Japan. Today’s hiking is about 2-3 hrs.

This morning travel to Yabuhara and commence your hike to Narai. You will along the way take in panoramic views of Mount Ontake, ancient shrines, and the well preserved town of Narai-juku., renowned for its old-world charm and historical significance. Continue to Matsumoto; home to one of Japan’s most famous Castles. Today’s hiking is about 2.5-3 hrs.

Today enjoy a day tour venturing into the heart of the Japanese Alps at Kamikochi, a pristine alpine valley known for its crystal-clear rivers, lush forests, and towering mountain peaks. Enjoy nature walks and take in breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. Upon completion of the day, you will return to Matsumoto.

Today is a wonderful day filled with the sites of Matsumoto. Visit the Matsumoto Castle, a National treasure, an iconic black and white fortress. Stroll Nawate Street with lively shopping, frog motifs and traditional stores. Visit Yohashire Shire, famous as a power spot believed to grant all wishes. Nakamachi Stree is an historic district with traditional kura-style buildings and cafes. Matsumoto City Museum of Art is not to be missed, featuring works by Yayoi Kusama and other local artists. Travel to Shinanoomachi and check in for the evening.

Today experience the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, which is a renowned 37-kilometer sightseeing corridor traversing the Northern Japan Alps, connecting Ōmachi in Nagano Prefecture to Tateyama in Toyama Prefecture. This route offers a unique journey through diverse alpine landscapes, utilizing various modes of transportation, including cable cars, trolley buses, and ropeways.

This morning take the train to Unazuki-0nsen. You will have free time to enjoy a lunch – perhaps dine at a local restaurant, savoring regional dishes like fresh seafood from Toyama Bay, or sample local specialties like onsen manju (steamed buns) at one of the many eateries. Take the Trolley Train to Nekomata. This train offers breathtaking views of the gorge, rivers and forests. Explore briefly Nekomata, before taking the Trolley train on the return journey. Check into your hotel and enjoy the onsen and have dinner.

This morning you will travel by trains through Toyama and Nagoya, arriving in Takayama in time for lunch. Enjoy the self guided tour of Takayama Jinya, Sake Tasing at Funasaka Sake Brewery and Hida Beef skewers, amongst the Edo period wooden merchant house, and shops. Takayama is know as Little Kyoto of the Hida Region. Check in to your hotel and wander the streets seeking out many places to have dinner.

Bid farewell to this region as you take the train from Takayama to Nagoya today. Your journey with us ends in Nagoya but be sure to take with you some unforgettable memories of Japan’s alpine beauty and cultural wonders.

Japan Alps Grand Circle

Explore Japan’s Majestic Alps | History, Nature, and Adventure Await!"

Japan Alps Grand Circle

Destinations on the tour

Nagoya>Magome>Tsumago>Narai-juku>Matsumoto>Kamikochi>Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route>Kurobe Gorge>Takayama