Last reviewed: · Prices are approximate and for orientation only.
Overzicht
This relaxed-paced 5-day itinerary uses 2 bases — Kanazawa (3 nights), Toyama (2 nights) — to keep hotel changes low while covering Kanazawa, Shirakawa-go, Toyama. Daily spend for mid-range travelers is around ¥17,000 per person including accommodation.
Day-by-day
Arrive in Kanazawa
Arrive, pick up an IC card and settle in. Easy first afternoon: Kenroku-en, Higashi Chaya geisha district and Omicho Market.
Kanazawa: 21st Century Museum and Nagamachi samurai district
21st Century Museum and Nagamachi samurai district
Day trip: Shirakawa-go
Day trip from Kanazawa: Gassho-zukuri farmhouse village and Shiroyama viewpoint.
Travel to Toyama
Morning transfer to Toyama (forward big luggage with takkyubin the day before). Afternoon: Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route snow walls (Apr–Jun).
Flexible day in Toyama · depart
Free day in Toyama: revisit favourites, shop, or rest at an onsen/sento. Ideas: Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route snow walls (Apr–Jun). Head to the airport in the afternoon.
Bereikbaarheid & Openbaar Vervoer
Use an IC card (Suica/ICOCA) for local trains and buses. Point-to-point tickets are usually cheaper than a JR Pass for this route.
Frequently asked questions
Is 5 days enough for Kanazawa, Shirakawa-go, Toyama?
Yes — this plan gives Kanazawa (3 nights), Toyama (2 nights), which is enough for the main highlights at a relaxed pace.
How much does this 5-day Japan trip cost?
Roughly ¥85,000 per person for 5 days (≈¥17,000/day) excluding international flights.
Do I need a JR Pass for this itinerary?
Enter your legs in our JR Pass Calculator; single tickets or regional passes are often cheaper.
When is the best time to do this route?
Late March–May and October–November for the best weather.