Explore Japan by rail and take the The New Golden Route along the Tokyo-Osaka corridor
The New Golden Route between Tokyo and Osaka invites visitors to Japan to slow down and swap the busy Pacific Coast cities and crowded sights for a scenic rail route along the Sea of Japan Coast. Here’s what to expect
Explore
Best for Nature
Rail, bike and hike along Japan’s New Golden Route
Discover Japan’s New Golden Route by hiking and biking through pristine nature and exploring vibrant cities at stops along the Hokuriku Shinkansen Line.
Best for Nature
How to connect with nature on the New Golden Route along the Tokyo-Osaka corridor
From the soft-sand beaches of the Amaharashi Coast to the tea fields of Wazuka, here’s how to connect with nature on Japan’s New Golden Route…
Best for nature
On the water and out in nature
Get to know Japan’s natural elements and spectacular scenery with these experiences along the Hokuriku Shinkansen Line
Best for history
Historical stops on Japan’s New Golden Route
Swapping the congested Golden Route along the Pacific Coast for the lesser-travelled western prefectures of Honshu with a Hokuriku Arch Rail Pass rewards with a deep dive into Japan’s fascinating history…
Best for meeting the locals
How to connect with local crafts along the New Golden Route
Here, your carved piece of glassware or hand-woven kimono might be one in a million. This is how to experience Japan’s artisanal side, following the New Golden Route by rail…
Rail tips
A better way to explore Japan by train
Nothing beats exploring Japan by rail, and one of the best ways to do it is via the New Golden Route, aka the Rainbow Route, an adventure taking the scenic route…
Explore the New Golden Route
While most visitors to Japan follow the well-trodden Golden Route along Honshu’s Pacific Coast, the New Golden Route offers a quieter, more immersive alternative. Linking Tokyo and Osaka via the Sea of Japan, this rail journey shows off dramatic coastlines, rural landscapes and picture-perfect spa towns along the way. The Hokuriku Arch Pass makes travel simple, allowing seven consecutive days of unlimited journeys on the Hokuriku Shinkansen, limited express trains and local lines. Discount benefits may also be offered as part of the pass, making it an easy and affordable way to explore Japan beyond the crowds.
