Shinkansen fares and ticket reservation methods from Nagano to Tokyo

Overview of travel methods from Nagano to Tokyo

From Nagano to Tokyo, the Hokuriku Shinkansen takes approximately 80 minutes. You can access Tokyo, Japan's capital, smoothly without transfers. This article provides detailed information on Shinkansen fares, travel time, and ticket booking methods. We've also compiled useful travel planning information, including rules for using the JR Pass and hotel information around Tokyo Station.

Basic information about traveling from Nagano to Tokyo

• Minimum travel time: Approximately 80 minutes (when using the "Kagayaki" train)
• Unreserved seat fare: Approximately 7,680 yen
• Reserved seat fare: Approximately 8,340 yen
• Available trains: "Kagayaki", "Hakutaka", "Asama"
• Note: All seats on the "Kagayaki" are reserved seats; there are no unreserved seats.
• JR Pass: Available

Tokyo's appeal as a tourist destination

Tokyo is the capital of Japan and one of the world's leading metropolises. It boasts a diverse array of tourist attractions, each with its own unique character, such as Asakusa, Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Akihabara. With shopping, dining, and culture all in one place, you'll discover something new every time you visit. A popular travel plan involves enjoying nature and history in Nagano before heading to Tokyo for sightseeing and shopping.

Shinkansen fare from Nagano to Tokyo

Overall view of Shinkansen fares from Nagano to Tokyo

The Shinkansen fare from Nagano Station to Tokyo Station varies depending on the seat class and train type you choose. The Hokuriku Shinkansen operates three types of trains: "Kagayaki," "Hakutaka," and "Asama," each with different stops and travel times. The fares are approximate, and during peak seasons (New Year's, Golden Week, and Obon), a peak season surcharge may be added to reserved seats and Green Car seats. By using the early bird discount offered by Ekinet, you may be able to purchase tickets at a significantly lower fare than the regular fare.

[Price List] Price comparison for unreserved seats, reserved seats, and Green Car seats.

Features and advantages of unreserved seating

Unreserved seats are the cheapest seating option. However, the Hokuriku Shinkansen's "Kagayaki" does not have unreserved seats, so if you want to use unreserved seats, you will need to choose the "Hakutaka" or "Asama" trains. During peak seasons and on weekends, trains departing from Nagano can be crowded with passengers returning from sightseeing, so it is recommended to line up on the platform early. The journey to Tokyo takes approximately 80 to 120 minutes, so you may have to stand during peak times.

Features and usage scenarios of reserved seats

Reserved seats allow you to secure your seat number before boarding, so you can travel without worrying about crowds. Group and family travel is especially convenient with reserved seats, as you can secure adjacent seats. If you book online in advance using "Ekinet," you may be eligible for early bird discounts such as "Osaki Toku-da-ne," which can make your ticket significantly cheaper than the regular fare. Trains returning to Tokyo on the last day of your Nagano sightseeing trip tend to be particularly crowded, so we recommend booking early.

Features and comfort of Green Cars

Green Cars are a premium class offering more spacious seats and enhanced amenities compared to standard cars. The seats are arranged in a 2+2 configuration with a wide recline angle, designed to minimize fatigue during long journeys. The ample legroom makes it a comfortable space suitable for working on a laptop or reading. It's highly recommended for those who want a comfortable return journey after strenuous activities like hiking or skiing in Nagano, or for business travelers.

Travel time from Nagano to Tokyo

Shortest Shinkansen travel time between Nagano and Tokyo

The shortest travel time from Nagano Station to Tokyo Station using the fastest train, "Kagayaki," is approximately 80 minutes. "Kagayaki" has a minimal number of stops, such as Omiya and Nagano, allowing for a very speedy journey to Tokyo. If you use "Hakutaka," which has more stops, the travel time is approximately 90-105 minutes. "Asama," which stops at every station, takes approximately 110-120 minutes.

Average travel time and difference between trains

The average travel time for the "Kagayaki" is about 80-85 minutes, and its consistent speed is a major draw. The travel time for the "Hakutaka" varies depending on the stations it stops at, but it's generally around 90-105 minutes. The "Asama" makes stops at major stations along the way, such as Ueda, Sakudaira, and Karuizawa, so it takes about 110-120 minutes. If time is your top priority, the "Kagayaki" is the best choice, but if you plan to stop at Karuizawa or Takasaki along the way, the "Asama" or "Hakutaka" are also viable options.

Speed ​​and features of the Hokuriku Shinkansen

The Hokuriku Shinkansen operates at a maximum speed of 260 km/h, traversing the mountainous region between Nagano and Tokyo at a steady pace. Along the way, passengers can enjoy magnificent views of the Northern Alps and Mount Asama in Nagano Prefecture, making the journey itself an enjoyable part of the trip. Its high on-time performance rate is another major advantage, making it easy to plan travel and business trip schedules.

Comparison of travel time with air travel

There are no airports in Nagano Prefecture with regularly scheduled passenger flights, so there is virtually no way to travel between Nagano and Tokyo by plane. Even from the nearest airport (Matsumoto Airport), it takes a considerable amount of time to get to Tokyo. Therefore, the Shinkansen (bullet train) is the most practical and convenient option for traveling between Nagano and Tokyo.

Time comparison with cars and conventional trains

By car, using the Joshinetsu Expressway or Kanetsu Expressway, the journey takes approximately 3-4 hours. Traffic congestion is common, and especially on the last day of a long holiday weekend, the northbound lanes from Nagano can be heavily congested. By conventional train (via Shinano Railway and JR Shinonoi Line), the journey takes 4-5 hours or more. While express buses are cheaper, the journey takes 3-4 hours or more. In terms of punctuality, travel time, and comfort, the Shinkansen (bullet train) is the best mode of transportation between Nagano and Tokyo.

Which train is the fastest?

The difference between "Kagayaki," "Hakutaka," and "Asama"

The Hokuriku Shinkansen (Nagano to Tokyo) operates three types of trains: "Kagayaki," "Hakutaka," and "Asama." The "Kagayaki" has the fewest stops and operates as an express train from Kanazawa and Toyama. The "Hakutaka" runs the same route as the "Kagayaki" but makes stops at intermediate stations, and the "Asama" stops at every station between Nagano and Tokyo. Since each train has different stops and travel times, it is important to choose the one that suits your purpose.

Stations and characteristics of each train

The "Kagayaki" train stops only at major stations such as Nagano, Omiya, and Tokyo, and its short travel time is its greatest feature. All seats are reserved, and there are no unreserved seats. The "Hakutaka" train stops at multiple stations such as Nagano, Ueda, Sakudaira, Karuizawa, Takasaki, Omiya, and Tokyo, making it convenient for access from various parts of the line. The "Asama" train stops at many stations such as Nagano, Ueda, Sakudaira, Komoro, Karuizawa, Annaka-Haruna, Takasaki, Omiya, Ueno, and Tokyo, making it a train frequently used by residents along the line.

[Train Comparison Chart] Comparison of Travel Times

Recommended trains between Nagano and Tokyo

If time is your top priority, the "Kagayaki" is recommended. It will get you to Tokyo Station in about 80 minutes, allowing you to maximize your time for sightseeing or work in Tokyo. However, since the number of "Kagayaki" trains is limited, depending on the time of day, choosing the "Hakutaka" might be easier. If you want to stop by Karuizawa, the "Asama" or "Hakutaka" are convenient. Check the timetable on a transportation information service such as Ekitan and choose the train that suits your destination and time.

Points to consider when choosing a train

When choosing a train between Nagano and Tokyo, first check if there is a "Kagayaki" train at your desired departure time. Since "Kagayaki" trains run only about once an hour, depending on the time of day, the "Hakutaka" train may be an earlier option. If you are using a JR Pass, you can use all "Kagayaki," "Hakutaka," and "Asama" trains. Securing your seat in advance using Ekinet will make your journey smoother on the day of travel.

How to book Shinkansen tickets

Basic methods for purchasing Shinkansen tickets

Shinkansen tickets between Nagano and Tokyo can be purchased in three ways: at station ticket offices, ticket machines, and online. In all cases, tickets can be purchased or reserved up to one month before the travel date. During peak seasons, reserved seats may sell out quickly, so it's recommended to book early once your travel dates are finalized. Since the Hokuriku Shinkansen is operated by JR East, the reservation service "Ekinet" is primarily used.

 

 

How to purchase at the station ticket office

Shinkansen tickets can be purchased at the JR stations' "Midori-no-madoguchi" (manned ticket counters). Simply tell the staff your departure station, arrival station, date and time, number of passengers, and seat class to complete the process. Nagano Station also has an English-speaking counter, so even those who are not confident in their Japanese can use the service with ease. Payment can be made with cash, credit cards, or transportation IC cards. The Nagano Station counter can get crowded during peak tourist seasons, so it is recommended to visit with plenty of time to spare.

How to use a ticket vending machine

You can also purchase Shinkansen tickets at the "reserved seat ticket vending machines" installed at stations. Many of these machines now support multiple languages, including English, Chinese, and Korean, allowing you to purchase tickets simply by following the on-screen instructions. Since credit cards such as Visa, Mastercard, JCB, and American Express are accepted, you don't need cash. Using a ticket vending machine is a smoother option if the ticket counters are crowded.

Online reservations (Ekinet - official website)

For online reservations on the Hokuriku Shinkansen, JR East's "Ekinet" service is convenient. Ekinet allows you to purchase discount tickets such as "Osaki Tokudane" and "Tokudane," which can be up to 50% off the regular fare. After registering as a member, you can easily make, change, and cancel reservations from your smartphone or computer. Using the "Shinkansen e-ticket" linked to Suica, you can pass through ticket gates using your transportation IC card without needing a physical ticket. Visitors from overseas can also utilize the JR East official website, which is available in English.

 

 

Points to note when making a reservation

Reservations for the Hokuriku Shinkansen are primarily made through JR East's "Ekinet" online service. Please note that this is a separate service from the Tokaido Shinkansen's SmartEX and EX Reservation, so do not confuse them. Since there are no unreserved seats on the "Kagayaki" train, you must reserve a reserved seat or Green Car seat. Evening and nighttime trains on the last day of long weekends, which are often used by people returning from sightseeing in Nagano, are particularly crowded, so we recommend making your reservation as soon as tickets go on sale one month in advance.

Can the JR Pass be used between Nagano and Tokyo?

Overview of JR Pass

The JR Pass is a special ticket for travelers who do not reside in Japan, offering unlimited travel on JR lines. It comes in 7-day, 14-day, and 21-day versions, allowing unlimited travel on JR Shinkansen, limited express, and local trains without additional charges during the validity period. The Hokuriku Shinkansen is also included in the JR Pass's coverage area, including the Nagano-Tokyo section. It can be purchased at travel agencies outside of Japan or at select ticket counters within Japan. A passport is required for use.

[JR Pass Eligibility Chart] Eligibility for use between Nagano and Tokyo

Restrictions on the use of "Kagayaki"

The Hokuriku Shinkansen's "Kagayaki" train can be used with a JR Pass. However, since all seats on the "Kagayaki" are reserved, even with a JR Pass, you will need to reserve a seat at a station's "Midori-no-madoguchi" (ticket office) or a reserved seat ticket machine before boarding. There is no additional charge for seat reservations. Unlike the Tokaido Shinkansen's "Nozomi," there are no restrictions on using the JR Pass, so you can use it with peace of mind.

Terms of Use for "Hakutaka" and "Asama"

"Hakutaka" and "Asama" trains can be used with a JR Pass for both unreserved and reserved seats. If you use an unreserved seat, you can board without any prior reservation, but if you want to use a reserved seat, you need to reserve a seat in advance. Seat reservations are free of charge. The "Hakutaka" is one of the most convenient trains for JR Pass users because it runs frequently and is easy to board.

Points to note when using JR Pass

The JR Pass is valid for consecutive days from the start date, so it's important to carefully set the start date to match your travel schedule. If your travel plans include visiting multiple cities, such as Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, or the Hokuriku region, in addition to Nagano to Tokyo, you'll often get your money's worth from the JR Pass. Since ticket counters can get crowded on the day of travel, it's best to make your seat reservation at least the day before.

Shinkansen timetable between Nagano and Tokyo

Frequency of Shinkansen service between Nagano and Tokyo

The Shinkansen between Nagano and Tokyo operates approximately 2-3 trains per hour across three types: "Kagayaki," "Hakutaka," and "Asama." "Kagayaki" trains run about once an hour, "Hakutaka" trains about 1-2 times an hour, and "Asama" trains run roughly once an hour even during the daytime. During ski and tourist seasons, extra trains may be added, so please check the schedule well in advance during peak travel seasons.

Guideline for the first and last trains

The first trains departing from Nagano Station leave as early as 6:00 AM, and the last trains bound for Tokyo depart around 9:00-10:00 PM. The last trains arrive at Tokyo Station around 11:00 PM. Taking the early morning train allows you to start sightseeing or work in Tokyo in the morning. On the other hand, using the late-night last train allows you to maximize your time for visiting Zenkoji Temple or sightseeing in Nagano city before heading to Tokyo.

How to read a timetable

You can check the Shinkansen timetable between Nagano and Tokyo on JR East's official website, Ekinet, and other transportation information services. When searching, enter your departure station "Nagano," arrival station "Tokyo," travel date, and time to see a list of times and fares for "Kagayaki," "Hakutaka," and "Asama" trains. Using the Ekinet app is very convenient as it allows you to search for times and make reservations all in one place.

[Timetable] Nagano Station to Tokyo Station (excerpt, approximate)

*Actual times and train numbers may change depending on the season and schedule revisions. Please check the latest information on Ekitan or other sites.

Peak hours and points to note

Trains between Nagano and Tokyo are particularly crowded on the last day of long weekends, especially evening and night trains departing from Nagano. Reserved seats may fill up quickly on weekends during the ski season (December to March), Golden Week, Obon, and the New Year holidays. The "Kagayaki" train does not have unreserved seats, so everyone must reserve a reserved seat. Popular trains often fill up immediately after tickets go on sale one month in advance, so it is important to book early as soon as your travel plans are finalized.

Summary: Shinkansen from Nagano to Tokyo

The Hokuriku Shinkansen is the fastest and most convenient way to travel from Nagano to Tokyo. The fare is approximately 7,680 yen for an unreserved seat, 8,340 yen for a reserved seat, and 11,390 yen for a Green Car seat. The fastest "Kagayaki" train takes about 80 minutes, making it a comfortable distance for a day trip from Nagano to Tokyo. Compared to cars, conventional trains, and highway buses, the Shinkansen offers significantly shorter travel times and higher punctuality, making it the best mode of transportation between Nagano and Tokyo. There are three types of trains: "Kagayaki," "Hakutaka," and "Asama." If speed is your priority, the "Kagayaki," with fewer stops, is recommended. Note that the "Kagayaki" does not have unreserved seats, so you must reserve a seat in advance. Those with a JR Pass can use all three trains ("Kagayaki," "Hakutaka," and "Asama") (seat reservations are required for the "Kagayaki"). Tickets can be purchased at station ticket offices ("Midori-no-madoguchi"), designated seat ticket machines, or online (e.g., via Ekinet). Taking advantage of Ekinet's early bird discounts can sometimes result in significantly lower fares than the regular price. The evening rush hour on the last day of a long holiday is particularly crowded, so please make your reservations early. Choose the train that best suits your travel plans and enjoy a comfortable Shinkansen journey between Nagano and Tokyo.

Ekitan Travel Media Editorial Department

The Ekitan Travel Media editorial team provides information on transportation in Japan, including Shinkansen (bullet trains), regular trains, intercity travel, and access to tourist destinations. We also offer easy-to-understand travel information for international visitors.
This article is published by Ekitan Co., Ltd., the provider of the train transfer information service "Ekitan," and is based on Japanese railway and transportation information. Ekitan's website and app are used by over 10 million users per month.