Tokyo to Nagano from $25: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from Tokyo to Nagano: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$25 - OtherBest price

180.65 kmDistance

1h 28m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Tokyo to Nagano with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

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Traveling From Tokyo to Nagano

Traveling from Tokyo to Nagano offers a striking contrast, with Tokyo's vibrant urban landscape giving way to Nagano's serene natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.

Best Neighbourhoods in Nagano

Nagano boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

Nagano City

• Home to Zenko-ji Temple, a cultural landmark.

• Bustling markets with local delicacies and fresh produce.

Hakuba

• Renowned for its world-class skiing and snowboarding resorts.

• Stunning alpine scenery ideal for outdoor activities year-round.

Karuizawa

• Chic boutiques and charming cafes attract art lovers.

• Scenic parks for leisurely strolls and picnics.

Best Times To Visit Nagano's Attractions

Timing your visit to Nagano's attractions can enhance your experience significantly.

Zenko-ji Temple

Weekday mornings offer a quieter atmosphere for reflection and exploration.

Snow Monkeys at Jigokudani

Visit on weekdays during early morning for the best views and fewer crowds.

Shiga Kogen Ski Area

Late January to early February provides optimal snow conditions and less congestion.

Nagano Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Nagano experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasons, making each time of year unique for visitors. Generally, spring and autumn offer mild temperatures and beautiful scenery, while winter transforms the region into a snow-filled wonderland, influencing your travel plans and activities.

Dining in Nagano: A Local Delight

Indulge in Nagano's specialty, Shinshu Soba, at a local restaurant like the quaint Daisan Shokudo, where the handmade buckwheat noodles shine with their earthy flavor and chewy texture. This dining experience immerses you in a cozy atmosphere filled with local ingredients that contrast sharply with Tokyo's bustling and diverse culinary scene.

Tokyo - Nagano operators

Explore transport companies operating between Tokyo and Nagano, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Train Show train routes

Contact phone

050-2016-1603

Website

https://www.jreast.co.jp/multi/en/

Train from Tōkyō Station to Nagano

Average Duration

1h 28m

Estimated price

$40-60

Bus Show bus routes

Contact phone

0570-550-373

Website

https://alpico.co.jp

Bus from Bus Terminal Tokyo Yaesu to Nagano Bus Terminal

Average Duration

6h 25m

Estimated price

$44-50

Tokyo to Nagano: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Tokyo and Nagano offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic journey from Tokyo to Nagano, covering a distance of 235.0 km in just under 3 hours. 💸 Enjoy the flexibility of pricing options ranging from $25 to $40 for your car trip to Nagano from Tokyo.

Average price

$25 - $40

🚅 Tokyo to Nagano by train is a convenient and efficient journey, with direct services departing approximately every 30 minutes. The trip takes just 1 hour and 28 minutes, allowing you to reach Nagano easily from Tokyo. 💸 Ticket prices for the train between Tokyo and Nagano range from $40 to $60, offering a cost-effective way to explore different regions of Japan.

Departure Point

Tōkyō Station

Arrival Point

Nagano station

Useful tips for train travellers

• On your train trip from Tokyo to Nagano, you will find that the Shinkansen (bullet train) offers catering services onboard, including a variety of bento boxes and drinks. Depending on your train type, popular meals include the ‘Ekiben’ (station lunch boxes) showcasing local delicacies. Allow yourself to experience regional flavors while traveling.

• The Shinkansen services between Tokyo and Nagano, particularly the Hokuriku Shinkansen, offers three main seating options: Ordinary (Economy Class), Green Car (First Class), and Gran Class (Luxury). Ordinary seats are comfortable with decent legroom, Green Car seats provide more spacious and plush seating with 2+1 configuration, and Gran Class offers the highest level of luxury with premium service, larger seats, and more privacy. Booking in advance is advisable during peak travel seasons.

• Multiple operators run trains from Tokyo to Nagano, with the primary one being the East Japan Railway Company (JR East). Their website offers schedules and ticket purchasing options: jreast.co.jp Another option is the speedier ASAMA service also provided by JR East. For planning local transport after arrival, it’s useful to check Nagano's municipal transport links here: nagano-tabi.net

🚌 Experience a cozy overnight ride from Bus Terminal Tokyo Yaesu to Nagano Bus Terminal with Alpico Group. 🌄 Enjoy the scenic journey through the Japanese countryside, with the bus ride taking approximately 6 hours and 25 minutes from Tokyo to Nagano. 💰 Prices for the bus from Tokyo to Nagano range from $44 to $50, providing a budget-friendly transportation option for your trip.

Departure Point

Bus Terminal Tokyo Yaesu station

Arrival Point

Nagano Bus Terminal station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Tokyo to Nagano.

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The distance between Tokyo and Nagano is 180.2 km by air, but the road distance is slightly longer at 234.8 km. The fastest way to travel between the two cities is by train, which takes approximately 1 hour and 28 minutes. If you prefer driving, it will take around 2 hours and 57 minutes by car. Alternatively, taking a bus will be the longest option, with an average travel time of 6 hours and 25 minutes.

The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Tokyo to Nagano would be by train. It only takes 1 hour and 28 minutes and costs around $40-$60. Driving is also a viable option, taking 2 hours and 57 minutes and costing $25-$40.

The prices for a train ticket from Tokyo to Nagano range from $40 to $60, depending on the class and type of train. On the other hand, the bus ticket prices for the journey from Nagano to Tokyo vary between $45 and $51.

To travel from Tokyo to Nagano without using public transportation, you can opt to drive. The driving distance is approximately 235.0 km and it typically takes around 2 hours and 57 minutes to reach Nagano. The cost of driving can vary, but it generally ranges from $25 to $40, depending on factors such as fuel prices and toll fees.

To travel from Tokyo to Nagano without a car, the best option is to take a train. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 28 minutes and the fare typically ranges from $40 to $60.

Yes, there is a direct link between Tokyo and Nagano. By train, you can travel from Tokyo to Nagano in approximately 1 hour and 28 minutes. There are regular services operating throughout the day. If you prefer to travel by bus, there is an overnight bus that takes approximately 6 hours and 25 minutes to reach Nagano from Tokyo.

There are several accommodation options available near Nagano. With over 166 hotels to choose from, travelers can find a variety of choices ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury accommodations. Prices start at $26, making it suitable for different budgets.