The Length of the Bullet Train Line in Japan

19 days from £13,310 for 2023 per person

• Aomori
• Nyuto Onsen
• Sendai
• Nikko
• Tokyo
• Hakone
• Kyoto
• Hiroshima and Miyajima
• Kumamoto
• Yakushima
• Kagoshima

With two recent extensions of the line to Aomori in the north and Kagoshima in the south, the bullet train now runs the full length of Japan's two most populous islands Honshu and Kyushu. What better way to explore the stunning scenery and cultural heritage of Japan than by 'shinkansen' (high-speed bullet train), with some detours off the beaten track en-route?

For cherry blossom in late spring, a cooler start in summer or leaf-peeping in early autumn, start at the northern port of Aomori. With the ingenious Japan Rail Pass, one can visit 'haunted' Hakkoda mountain and its primeval vistas, or grand Hirosaki castle at no extra cost. It's a set of smooth, fast bullet trains ride south from here, but at each stop there are opportunities to go further than most westerners by using local transport.

Nyuto Onsen, tucked away in the mountains of northern Honshu, is one of Japan's oldest hot spring bathing spots. A night here takes one back in time to the days when Japan used thatched roofs and oil lamps. Further south, have the creature comforts of an upgrade city hotel in Sendai and use it as a base to explore the striking temples of Hiraizumi or those at Yamadera clinging to the mountain face. It's also easy to reach Matsushima Bay, a charming coastal spot in season and one of Japan's official top three views.

Next, spend time exploring the temple sights and natural beauty of Nikko national park. Mid-trip, take a draught of the Tokyo megalopolis before a breather in Mt Fuji national park. The traditional inns here are the last word in Japanese-style R&R, and the 'kaiseki' multi-course meals are delectable.

The cultural mecca of Kyoto is Japan's second city, but actually far smaller than Tokyo so one can have a decent stab at seeing the sights in a couple of days. Reach Hiroshima mid-morning thanks to the bullet train, leaving ample time to explore the Peace Park and iconic shrine with 'floating' gate on nearby Miyajima island.

The bullet train then whizzes on to Kumamoto, home of an impressive castle and a train ride from Mount Aso, the world's largest live volcanic caldera. Save the most bizarre for last, as the 1,000-year-old cedar trees and sprawling vegetation on Yakushima island envelop explorers in a lost world. For an enduring image of urban Japan's constant battle against the encroaching natural elements, visit Sakurajima volcano near Kagoshima which belches ash daily.

Japan Airlines connects via Tokyo and lands back at Heathrow the same day. We would expect nothing less from the most efficient nation on earth, yet nothing feels hurried on this epic exploration of Japan.

This luxury holiday is purely a suggested itinerary; it can be booked as it is or used as a starting point for creating your perfect tailor-made tour. If you would like to see similar trips, take a look at our collection of Japan itineraries.

I can't think of anything that excites a greater sense of childlike wonder than to be in a country where you are ignorant of almost everything.
Bill Bryson