Shinkansen (bullet train) fares and ticket reservation methods from Tokyo to Karuizawa

Overview of how to travel from Tokyo to Karuizawa

You can reach Karuizawa from Tokyo in as little as 64 minutes by Hokuriku Shinkansen. Because it's accessible in about an hour from Tokyo, it's very popular for day trips and weekend resort stays. This article provides detailed information on Shinkansen fares, travel time, and ticket booking methods. We've also compiled helpful information for your travel planning, including rules for using the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) and hotel information around Karuizawa Station.

Basic information about getting from Tokyo to Karuizawa

• Shortest travel time: Approximately 64 minutes (when using "Asama" or "Hakutaka" trains)
• General admission ticket price: Approximately 5,490 yen
• Reserved seat fare: Approximately 6,020 yen
• Available trains: "Asama", "Hakutaka"
• Note: The fastest "Kagayaki" train does not stop at Karuizawa Station.
• JR Pass: Available

The appeal of Karuizawa as a tourist destination

Karuizawa is one of Japan's leading highland resorts. Visitors can enjoy its rich natural beauty throughout the year, from escaping the heat in summer to admiring the autumn foliage and skiing in winter. There are many tourist attractions, including strolling along the Old Karuizawa Ginza shopping street, shopping at large outlet malls, and visiting Shiraito Falls. The sophisticated atmosphere of the town is highly regarded by both domestic and international travelers.

Shinkansen fare from Tokyo to Karuizawa

Overall view of Shinkansen fares from Tokyo to Karuizawa

The Shinkansen fare from Tokyo Station to Karuizawa Station varies depending on the seat class and train type you choose. The Hokuriku Shinkansen operates three types of trains: "Asama," "Hakutaka," and "Kagayaki," but the "Kagayaki" does not stop at Karuizawa Station. The fares are approximate, and during peak seasons (New Year's, Golden Week, Obon, and the summer resort season), peak season surcharges may be added to reserved seats and Green Car tickets. You can purchase tickets cheaper than usual by using the early bird discount offered by Ekinet.

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

Features and advantages of unreserved seating

Non-reserved seats are the cheapest seating class, and you don't need to purchase a reserved seat ticket before boarding. However, the Hokuriku Shinkansen's "Kagayaki" does not have non-reserved seats, and the "Kagayaki" does not stop at Karuizawa Station. If you want to use non-reserved seats, please choose the "Asama" or "Hakutaka" trains. During the summer resort season and long weekends, it can get crowded, so we recommend lining up on the platform early.

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. Reserved seats are especially convenient for group or family travel, 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. Popular weekend trains fill up quickly, 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 class. The seats are arranged in a 2+2 configuration with a wide recline angle, designed to minimize fatigue even during long journeys. The ample legroom makes it a comfortable space suitable for working on a laptop or reading. It's recommended for those who want to make their resort trip to Karuizawa even more special, as well as for business travelers.

Travel time from Tokyo to Karuizawa

Shortest Shinkansen journey from Tokyo to Karuizawa

The shortest travel time from Tokyo Station to Karuizawa Station using the "Asama" or "Hakutaka" trains is approximately 64 minutes. The "Kagayaki" train does not stop at Karuizawa Station, so it cannot be used. Since it can be reached from Tokyo in about an hour, Karuizawa is close enough to be enjoyed as a day trip resort. Travel time varies slightly depending on the train, but it is a good idea to plan your schedule with a general guideline of 1 hour to 1 hour and 10 minutes.

Average travel time and difference between trains

The average journey time for the "Asama" train is approximately 64 to 80 minutes, depending on the number of stops. The "Hakutaka" train stops at Karuizawa via Omiya and Takasaki, so the journey time is approximately 70 to 80 minutes. Karuizawa is one of the main stops for the "Asama" train, and it is a convenient train to use as it runs frequently. Depending on the time of day, it is a good idea to compare the "Asama" and "Hakutaka" trains and choose the one that is most convenient for you to depart on.

Speed ​​and features of the Hokuriku Shinkansen

The Hokuriku Shinkansen operates at a maximum speed of 260 km/h, traversing the mountainous region between Tokyo and Karuizawa at a steady pace. After passing Ueno and Omiya, the Kanto Plain unfolds, and after Takasaki, the train crosses the Usui Pass to reach Karuizawa. There are sections where passengers can enjoy the majestic view of Mount Asama from the train windows, and just before arriving in Karuizawa, a lush, green plateau landscape unfolds. The high rate of on-time operation is another major attraction of the Hokuriku Shinkansen, making it easy to plan your travel schedule.

Comparison of travel time with express buses

There are also express buses operating between Tokyo and Karuizawa, and the fares can sometimes be cheaper than the Shinkansen (bullet train). However, the express bus journey takes about 2 to 3 hours, and this can be significantly longer due to traffic congestion. Compared to the Shinkansen's approximately 64 minutes, the difference in travel time is obvious. Especially during the summer resort season and long holidays, the Kan-Etsu Expressway and Joshin-Etsu Expressway are prone to congestion, so if you want to arrive reliably on time, the Shinkansen is the best option.

Time comparison with cars and rental cars

By car, the journey takes approximately 2 to 2.5 hours using the Kan-Etsu Expressway and Joshin-Etsu Expressway. While a car is convenient for sightseeing after arriving in Karuizawa, traffic congestion is severe during the summer holiday season and long weekends, making travel times unpredictable. The "Shinkansen + rental car" plan, which involves traveling to Karuizawa by Shinkansen and renting a car locally, is popular among many travelers because it allows them to avoid traffic and enjoy comfortable transportation at their destination.

Which train is the fastest?

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

The Hokuriku Shinkansen (Tokyo to Karuizawa) operates three types of trains: "Asama," "Hakutaka," and "Kagayaki." However, the "Kagayaki" does not stop at Karuizawa Station. The "Asama" mainly operates between Tokyo and Nagano, stopping at every station, including Karuizawa, making it the most convenient train for a trip to Karuizawa. The "Hakutaka" is a train bound for Nagano and Kanazawa, but some services also stop at Karuizawa. Please check the service schedule and stops according to your destination before boarding.

Stations and characteristics of each train

The "Asama" train stops at stations such as Tokyo, Ueno, Omiya, Takasaki, Annaka-Haruna, Karuizawa, Sakudaira, Ueda, and Nagano, making it a convenient train for travel to stations along the line, including Karuizawa. It also has unreserved seats, making it easy to use. The "Hakutaka" train also stops at stations such as Tokyo, Ueno, Omiya, Takasaki, Karuizawa, Ueda, and Nagano, and sometimes has fewer stops and a shorter travel time than the "Asama". The "Kagayaki" train does not stop at Karuizawa or Takasaki and goes directly to Nagano, so it cannot be used for travel to Karuizawa.

[Train Comparison Chart] Comparison of Travel Times

Recommended trains from Tokyo to Karuizawa

The "Asama" train is the most convenient option due to its frequent service. Since Karuizawa is a major stop, it's arguably the most user-friendly train, even considering the availability of unreserved seats. If time is a priority, choosing the "Hakutaka" train, which also stops at Karuizawa, will shorten your travel time. Check departure and arrival times using transportation information services like Ekitan to select a train that fits your travel schedule.

Points to consider when choosing a train

When choosing a train between Tokyo and Karuizawa, first remember that you cannot use the "Kagayaki" train. Compare the "Asama" and "Hakutaka" trains and choose the one that suits your desired departure time. If you are using a JR Pass, you can use either the "Asama" or "Hakutaka" (you can also use the "Kagayaki" but it does not stop in Karuizawa). Using Ekinet to reserve a seat in advance will make your journey smoother on the day of travel.

How to book Shinkansen tickets

Basic methods for purchasing Shinkansen tickets

Shinkansen tickets between Tokyo and Karuizawa can be purchased in three ways: at station ticket counters, ticket machines, and online. In all cases, tickets can be purchased or reserved up to one month before the travel date. During the summer resort season (July-August), autumn foliage season (October-November), New Year's holidays, and Golden Week, reserved seats may sell out quickly, so it is recommended to book early once your travel dates are decided. Since the Hokuriku Shinkansen is operated by JR East, the reservation service "Ekinet" is primarily used.

How to purchase at the station ticket window

Shinkansen tickets can be purchased at the "Midori no Madoguchi" (manned ticket counters) at JR stations. Simply tell the staff your departure station, arrival station, date and time, number of passengers, and seat class to complete the process. Major stations such as Tokyo Station also have English-speaking counters, 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.

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, which is a separate service from the Tokaido Shinkansen's SmartEX and EX Reservation. Please be careful not to confuse them. The "Kagayaki" does not stop at Karuizawa Station, so when making a reservation, be sure to select either the "Asama" or "Hakutaka" (trains that stop at Karuizawa). During the summer resort season, weekend mornings (departing from Tokyo) and evenings/nights (departing from Karuizawa) are particularly crowded, so we recommend making a reservation as soon as tickets go on sale one month in advance.

Can the JR Pass be used between Tokyo and Karuizawa?

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 Tokyo-Karuizawa 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 Tokyo and Karuizawa

Restrictions on the use of "Kagayaki"

While the "Kagayaki" train can be used with a JR Pass, it does not stop at Karuizawa Station. Therefore, it is practically unusable for travel between Tokyo and Karuizawa. If you have a JR Pass, please choose the "Asama" or the "Hakutaka" train, which stops at Karuizawa. Unlike the "Nozomi" train on the Tokaido Shinkansen, there are no restrictions on using the JR Pass; it can be used on all trains on the Hokuriku Shinkansen.

Terms of Use for "Hakutaka" and "Asama"

Both the "Hakutaka" and "Asama" trains can be used with a JR Pass for both reserved and unreserved seats. If you use an unreserved seat, you can board without any charge, but if you want a reserved seat, you need to reserve a seat in advance. Seat reservations can be made at no extra charge. The "Asama" train has frequent service and is easy to board, making it one of the most convenient trains for JR Pass users.

Points to note when using JR Pass

Since the JR Pass is valid for consecutive days from the start date, it's important to carefully set the start date to match your travel schedule. If your travel plan includes visiting multiple cities such as Nagano, Kanazawa, and Toyama, not just Tokyo to Karuizawa, you'll often get your money's worth from the JR Pass. Karuizawa is easy to incorporate as a stopover in a Hokuriku/Nagano tour and is a particularly popular tourist destination for JR Pass users.

Shinkansen (bullet train) timetable from Tokyo to Karuizawa

Tokyo to Karuizawa Shinkansen service frequency

The Shinkansen bullet trains operating between Tokyo and Karuizawa are the "Asama" and "Hakutaka." The "Asama" runs approximately every 30-60 minutes even during the day, making it the most convenient train to use for travel to Karuizawa. The "Hakutaka," which stops at Karuizawa, runs approximately once every 1-2 hours. During the summer resort season and long holidays, extra "Asama" trains may be added, so please check the timetable well in advance during peak travel seasons.

Guideline for the first and last trains

The first trains departing from Tokyo Station leave as early as 6:00 AM, and the last train to Karuizawa Station departs around 9:00-10:00 PM. The last train arrives at Karuizawa Station around 11:00 PM. By taking the early morning train, you can enjoy strolling around Old Karuizawa and outlet shopping from the morning. By taking the late-night last train, you can travel to Karuizawa on the same day even after finishing your business in Tokyo.

How to read a timetable

You can check the Shinkansen timetable between Tokyo and Karuizawa on JR East's official website, Ekinet, Ekitan, and other transportation information services. When searching, enter your departure station "Tokyo", arrival station "Karuizawa", date of travel, and time to see a list of times and fares for "Asama" and "Hakutaka" trains. "Kagayaki" trains do not stop at Karuizawa, so they may not appear in the search results.

[Timetable] Tokyo Station ⇒ Karuizawa 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

The Tokyo-Karuizawa route is particularly crowded during the summer resort season (July-August), the autumn foliage season (October-November), Golden Week, and the New Year holidays. Weekend mornings (departing from Tokyo) and evenings/nights (departing from Karuizawa) tend to be crowded, so we recommend booking reserved seats in advance. During the summer Obon season, popular flights often sell out immediately after tickets go on sale a month in advance, so it's important to book as soon as your travel plans are finalized.

Summary: Shinkansen from Tokyo to Karuizawa

The Hokuriku Shinkansen is the fastest and most convenient way to travel from Tokyo to Karuizawa. The fare is approximately ¥5,490 for a non-reserved seat, ¥6,020 for a reserved seat, and ¥9,070 for a Green Car seat. The journey takes approximately 64 to 80 minutes, allowing you to reach the highland resort in about an hour from Tokyo. Compared to express buses and cars, the significantly shorter travel time and high punctuality, unaffected by traffic congestion, are the Shinkansen's greatest strengths. An important point to note is that the "Kagayaki" train does not stop at Karuizawa Station, so you must choose either the "Asama" or the "Hakutaka" train, which does stop at Karuizawa. Those with a JR Pass can use either the "Asama" or "Hakutaka." Tickets can be purchased at station ticket offices ("Midori no Madoguchi"), reserved seat ticket machines, or online (e.g., via Ekinet). Early bird discounts on Ekinet can sometimes be significantly cheaper than the regular fare. During the summer and autumn foliage seasons, reserved seats fill up quickly, so we recommend booking as soon as your travel plans are finalized. From strolling through Old Karuizawa Ginza to a resort stay at Hoshinoya Karuizawa, start your diverse Karuizawa adventure with a comfortable Shinkansen ride.

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 to Japan.
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.