Nagano, a city in the Japanese Alps, is famous for its Zenkoji Temple, Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, and world-class ski resorts. Located 230 km (143 miles) northwest of Tokyo, Nagano is accessible by Shinkansen (bullet train), bus, car, or guided tour. This guide covers all available travel options, including travel times, costs, and tips for convenience. Don’t forget, you can easily book your tickets through our online search form at the top of the page.
Overview of Travel Options
Here are the main ways to get from Tokyo to Nagano:
- By Shinkansen (Bullet Train): The fastest and most convenient option.
- By Highway Bus: The cheapest but slower alternative.
- By Car: A flexible choice for road trip lovers.
- By Guided Tour: A hassle-free way to explore Nagano.
Let’s explore each option in detail to help you choose the best way to travel from Tokyo to Nagano.
Timetable
| Flight Tokyo - Matsumoto Â¥ 7,839–31,903 4h 59m – 1d 3h 49m | |
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| Bus Tokyo - Nagano Â¥ 3,685–3,985 4h 39m – 5h 5m | |
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| Train Tokyo - Nagano Â¥ 9,259–13,065 1h 22m – 1h 37m | |
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By Shinkansen (Bullet Train): The Fastest and Most Convenient Option
Taking the Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo to Nagano is the quickest and easiest way to travel.
Key Details:
- Departure Station: Tokyo Station or Ueno Station.
- Arrival Station: Nagano Station.
- Duration: 80 to 110 minutes, depending on train type.
- Price: 8,340 JPY (Unreserved Seat) – 8,670 JPY (Reserved Seat) (~$55–$60 USD).
- Shinkansen Types:
- Kagayaki (Fastest, only reserved seats, 80 minutes).
- Hakutaka (Mid-speed, both reserved and unreserved seats, 90–100 minutes).
- Asama (Local, more stops, 100–110 minutes).
- Departure Frequency: Multiple trains per hour from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Pros:
- Fastest travel time (~80 minutes on Kagayaki Shinkansen).
- Comfortable and spacious seating.
- Covered by the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass).
Cons:
- Slightly more expensive than the bus.
- Seats can sell out during peak seasons.
Booking Tip:
For fastest travel, take the Kagayaki Shinkansen. For budget travelers, the Hakutaka Shinkansen allows unreserved seating. Use our online search form to check train schedules and secure your ticket.
By Highway Bus: The Cheapest but Slower Alternative
For budget-conscious travelers, taking a highway bus from Tokyo to Nagano is the cheapest way to travel, though it takes longer than the Shinkansen.
Key Details:
- Departure Points:
- Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal.
- Tokyo Station Yaesu Exit.
- Arrival Point: Nagano Station.
- Duration: 3.5 to 4.5 hours, depending on traffic.
- Price: 2,500–5,000 JPY (~$17–$35 USD).
- Bus Operators:
- Alpico Express Bus (most reliable).
- Keio Bus.
- Will Express.
- Bus Types:
- Standard Bus (Budget, fewer amenities).
- Premium Bus (More legroom, reclining seats, WiFi, blankets).
- Departure Frequency: Every 1 to 2 hours from morning to evening.
Pros:
- Cheaper than the Shinkansen.
- Direct service with no transfers.
Cons:
- Takes significantly longer than the train.
- Traffic delays are possible.
Booking Tip:
For better comfort, choose a premium bus. Use our online search form to check bus schedules and book your ticket.
By Car: A Flexible Choice for Road Trip Lovers
For travelers who prefer privacy and flexibility, renting a car from Tokyo to Nagano is a great option, especially if you plan to visit ski resorts, hot springs, or rural areas.
Key Details:
- Route: Tokyo → Nagano via Kan-Etsu Expressway & Joshinetsu Expressway.
- Distance: 230 km (143 miles).
- Duration: 3.5 to 4.5 hours, depending on traffic.
- Toll Fees:
6,000 JPY ($40 USD). - Gasoline Cost:
3,000 JPY ($20 USD). - Car Rental Price: 6,000–12,000 JPY per day (~$40–$85 USD).
- Rental Car Companies:
- Toyota Rent-a-Car.
- Nippon Rent-a-Car.
- Times Car Rental.
Optional Scenic Stops Along the Way:
- Karuizawa – A beautiful highland town with shopping and hot springs (~1-hour stop).
- Kamikochi – A stunning alpine valley with breathtaking nature (~detour required).
Pros:
- Most flexible option—stop at attractions along the way.
- Great for groups and families.
Cons:
- Expensive tolls and fuel costs.
- Winter driving requires snow tires or chains.
Booking Tip:
For ease of navigation, rent a car with GPS or use Google Maps. Use our online search form to compare rental car prices.
By Guided Tour: A Hassle-Free Way to Explore Nagano
For travelers who want a stress-free experience with expert insights, joining a guided tour from Tokyo to Nagano is a great option.
Key Details:
- Departure Points:
- Pickup from designated hotels in Tokyo.
- Duration: Full-day tour (10–12 hours).
- Price: 15,000–25,000 JPY (~$100–$170 USD).
- Includes:
- Round-trip transportation.
- Visits to Zenkoji Temple, Snow Monkey Park, or Togakushi Shrine.
- English-speaking guide.
Pros:
- Convenient, no need to plan transport.
- Includes admission to key attractions.
Cons:
- Less flexibility compared to solo travel.
Booking Tip:
Book at least a day in advance to secure a spot. Use our online search form to find available tours.
Final Tips for Traveling from Tokyo to Nagano
- Best Option for Speed: Shinkansen (~80 minutes, from 8,340 JPY).
- Best Option for Budget Travelers: Bus (~2,500 JPY, 4+ hours).
- Best Option for Flexibility & Scenic Views: Rental Car (~10,000 JPY, 3+ hours, stops along the way).
- Best for Comfort & Hassle-Free Travel: Guided Tour (~15,000 JPY, includes sightseeing stops).
- Book Early for Peak Season: Trains, buses, and rental cars sell out quickly during ski season (December–March) and autumn foliage season (October–November).
