Tokyo, Japan’s bustling capital, is known for its skyscrapers, historic temples, and vibrant nightlife. Located 30 km (19 miles) northeast of Yokohama, Tokyo is accessible by train, bus, or car. 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 Yokohama to Tokyo:
- By Train: The fastest and most convenient option.
- By Bus: The cheapest but slightly slower alternative.
- By Car: The most flexible but expensive choice.
Let’s explore each option in detail to help you choose the best way to travel from Yokohama to Tokyo.
Timetable
| Train Yokohama - Tokyo ¥ 1,279–6,097 19m – 40m | |
|
By Train: The Fastest and Most Convenient Option
Taking a direct train from Yokohama to Tokyo is the quickest and easiest way to travel, with multiple lines connecting the two cities.
Key Details:
- Departure Station: Yokohama Station.
- Arrival Stations in Tokyo:
- Tokyo Station (Central Tokyo).
- Shinagawa Station (South Tokyo).
- Shibuya Station (West Tokyo).
- Shinjuku Station (West Tokyo).
- Duration: 25 to 45 minutes, depending on the train line.
- Price: 300–600 JPY (~$2–$4 USD).
- Train Lines:
- JR Tokaido Line – Fastest option to Tokyo Station (25 minutes).
- JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line – Direct to Shinjuku and Shibuya.
- JR Yokosuka Line – Direct to Tokyo and Shinagawa.
- Tokyu Toyoko Line – Direct to Shibuya.
- Keikyu Line – Direct to Shinagawa.
- Train Types:
- Local Train (Cheapest, more stops).
- Rapid or Limited Express (Faster, fewer stops, same price).
- Departure Frequency: Every 5–10 minutes from early morning to late evening.
Pros:
- Fastest travel time (~25 minutes on Tokaido Line).
- Multiple departures every few minutes.
- Direct travel without transfers.
- Affordable and convenient.
Cons:
- Can be crowded during rush hours.
- Limited luggage space on local trains.
Booking Tip:
For faster travel, choose the JR Tokaido Line or JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line. Use our online search form to check train schedules and secure your ticket.
By Bus: The Cheapest but Slightly Slower Alternative
For budget-conscious travelers, taking a direct bus from Yokohama to Tokyo is the cheapest way to travel, though it takes slightly longer than the train.
Key Details:
- Departure Points:
- Yokohama Station West Exit.
- Yokohama City Air Terminal (YCAT).
- Arrival Points:
- Tokyo Station Yaesu Exit.
- Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal.
- Duration: 40 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic.
- Price: 500–1,000 JPY (~$4–$7 USD).
- Bus Operators:
- Keikyu Limousine Bus.
- JR Bus Kanto.
- Bus Types:
- Standard Bus (A/C, reclining seats, onboard WiFi).
- Departure Frequency: Every 30 minutes from morning to evening.
Pros:
- Cheaper than trains (~500 JPY for budget buses).
- Direct travel without transfers.
- Comfortable seating with A/C and WiFi.
Cons:
- Takes longer than the train (~40+ minutes).
- Subject to traffic delays, especially during rush hours.
Booking Tip:
For better comfort, choose a limousine bus with reclining seats. Use our online search form to check bus schedules and book your ticket.
By Car: The Most Flexible but Expensive Choice
For travelers who prefer privacy and flexibility, renting a car from Yokohama to Tokyo is an option, especially if you want to explore attractions along the way.
Key Details:
- Route: Yokohama → Tokyo via Shuto Expressway (Route 1).
- Distance: 30 km (19 miles).
- Duration: 30 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic.
- Toll Fees:
700 JPY ($5 USD). - Gasoline Cost:
500 JPY ($3.50 USD). - Car Rental Price: 6,000–10,000 JPY per day (~$40–$70 USD).
- Rental Car Companies:
- Toyota Rent-a-Car.
- Nippon Rent-a-Car.
- Times Car Rental.
Recommended Stops Along the Way:
- Minato Mirai 21 – Futuristic waterfront area with shopping and dining.
- Odaiba – Popular shopping and entertainment district in Tokyo Bay.
Pros:
- Most flexible option—stop at attractions along the way.
- Comfortable for families and groups.
- Direct travel to your destination in Tokyo.
Cons:
- More expensive than trains and buses.
- Traffic delays are common, especially during rush hours.
- High parking fees in Tokyo.
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.
Final Tips for Traveling from Yokohama to Tokyo
- Best Option for Speed & Convenience: Train (~25 minutes, from 300 JPY).
- Best Option for Budget Travelers: Bus (~500 JPY, 40+ minutes).
- Best Option for Flexibility & Scenic Stops: Rental Car (~6,000 JPY, 30+ minutes, tolls included).
- Avoid Rush Hours: Weekday mornings (7:30–9:30 AM) and evenings (5:00–7:00 PM) are the busiest times on trains and roads.
- IC Card for Easy Travel: Use a Suica or Pasmo IC card for seamless payments on trains and buses.
