Trains to and from Tokyo

Tokyo serves as a central rail hub in Japan, with several major stations facilitating extensive travel options. Tokyo Station operates as a principal terminal for Shinkansen services, linking to cities including Osaka, Kyoto, and Hakata. Shinjuku Station, recognized as the busiest railway station globally, accommodates local and express services to areas like Yokohama and Kawasaki. Shibuya Station provides additional connections for suburban and regional trains. To reach the airports, the Narita Express and Keisei Skyliner connect Tokyo to Narita Airport, whereas the Tokyo Monorail and Keikyu Line provide access to Haneda Airport. With a mix of 13 Shinkansen lines and a vast local rail network, travel to and from Tokyo is well-supported.

Visiting Tokyo

Tokyo presents a unique mix of historical and contemporary attractions for travelers. Starting from Tokyo Station, visitors can easily access the Imperial Palace, where one can stroll through the beautiful gardens. For a taste of Japanese pop culture, train journeys to Akihabara offer a range of electronics and anime-related stores. The famous Asakusa district, with Senso-ji temple, can be reached by train, providing insight into the city’s rich history. Shibuya Crossing, located near Shibuya Station, is essential for experiencing Tokyo's lively atmosphere. Train tickets to Nikko and Hakone for stunning natural scenery are also easily obtainable. Ensure you buy train tickets in advance to enhance your travel experience. Book trains from and to Tokyo online at Rail Monsters.

Popular Train Routes from and to Tokyo

Tokyo serves as a major hub for rail travel in Japan, connecting to key destinations across the country. The Tokyo to Osaka route, covering approximately 515 kilometers, is one of the busiest and takes around 2.5 hours via the Shinkansen bullet train. Another popular journey is Tokyo to Kyoto, which spans about 450 kilometers and takes roughly 2 hours and 15 minutes. The Tokyo to Nagoya line covers about 350 kilometers with a travel time of around 1 hour and 40 minutes. Service to Sendai, approximately 350 kilometers away, takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, while the route to Hiroshima, covering nearly 800 kilometers, takes approximately 4 hours. For international travelers, the Narita Express offers direct access to Narita Airport, with a travel time of about 1 hour from Tokyo.

Tokyo to Osaka

Travel from Tokyo to Osaka by Shinkansen and visit Universal Studios Japan or walk through Osaka Castle Park, home to the historic Osaka Castle.

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Tokyo to Saitama

Travel from Tokyo to Saitama by train and visit the historical Kawagoe with its Edo period buildings and the beautiful Omiya Bonsai Village.

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Tokyo to Nagoya

Travel from Tokyo to Nagoya by Shinkansen and visit the historic Nagoya Castle or the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology.

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Tokyo to Yokohama

Travel from Tokyo to Yokohama by JR Tokaido Line and visit the Yokohama Chinatown for dining or explore the waterfront area at Minato Mirai.

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Tokyo to Okayama

Travel from Tokyo to Okayama by Shinkansen and visit Korakuen Garden or explore the historic Okayama Castle.

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Tokyo to Kyoto

Travel from Tokyo to Kyoto by Shinkansen and visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) or explore the historic streets of Gion.

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Tokyo to Kobe

Travel from Tokyo to Kobe by Shinkansen and visit the iconic Kobe Harborland or enjoy the famous Kobe Beef at restaurants in Sannomiya.

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Tokyo to Hiroshima

Travel from Tokyo to Hiroshima by Shinkansen and visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park or explore the historic Hiroshima Castle.

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Tokyo to Fukuoka

Travel from Tokyo to Fukuoka by Shinkansen and visit the historic Fukuoka Castle or enjoy local delicacies at Yanagibashi Rengo Market.

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Tokyo to Kitakyushu

Travel from Tokyo to Kitakyushu by Shinkansen and visit the iconic Mojiko Retro District or discover the vibrant attractions at Kokura Castle.

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Tokyo to Fukuyama

Travel from Tokyo to Fukuyama by Shinkansen and visit the historic Fukuyama Castle or the scenic Tomonoura port.

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Tokyo to Himeji

Travel from Tokyo to Himeji by Shinkansen and visit Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, or explore Kokoen Garden nearby.

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Tokyo to Sendai

Travel from Tokyo to Sendai by Shinkansen and visit the historic Sendai Castle or the beautiful Zuihoden Mausoleum.

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Tokyo to Shizuoka

Travel from Tokyo to Shizuoka by Shinkansen and visit Mount Fuji from the Fuji Five Lakes area or explore the historic Kunozan Toshogu Shrine.

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Tokyo to Hamamatsu

Travel from Tokyo to Hamamatsu by Shinkansen and visit the famous Hamamatsu Castle or enjoy the beautiful scenery at Lake Hamana.

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Tokyo to Takasaki

Travel from Tokyo to Takasaki by Shinkansen and visit the historic Takasaki Inclinatory Shrine or enjoy the scenic views of Mount Haruna.

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Tokyo Major Train Stations

Tokyo's train stations accommodate a variety of travel requirements and function within the city's extensive rail system. Tokyo Station is the main node for long-distance travel, particularly for Shinkansen bullet trains that link to major cities including Osaka and Kyoto. Shinjuku Station holds the title of the busiest station globally, facilitating regional connections to locations such as Yokohama and Kawasaki, along with a wide array of shopping and dining choices. Shibuya Station serves as a portal for access to suburban destinations, frequently used by individuals visiting landmarks like Shibuya Crossing. For airport connections, the Narita Express provides service to Narita Airport, while Tokyo Monorail and Keikyu Line offer access to Haneda Airport.

Tokyo Station

Tokyo Train Station is a major hub with Shinkansen access and shopping.

Train Travel to and from Tokyo FAQ and Tips

How to buy Shinkansen tickets from Tokyo to Osaka or Kyoto and get the best views?

To view Mount Fuji while traveling to Osaka or Kyoto, reserve a seat on the right side of the Shinkansen. This increases the chance of seeing the mountain, contingent on clear weather conditions. It is advisable to book tickets in advance, especially during peak travel periods.

What are the main train connections in Tokyo?

Tokyo features an extensive rail network with significant connections for both local and long-distance travel. Major Shinkansen lines connect Tokyo with cities like Osaka, Kyoto, and Nagoya, while the Yamanote Line circles the city linking important areas. Regional lines such as the Keihin-Tohoku and Chuo Line make it straightforward to travel to nearby cities.

Can I use a Japan Rail Pass on Tokyo's local trains?

Yes, the Japan Rail Pass can be utilized on JR lines within Tokyo, including the Yamanote Line, which connects major areas like Shinjuku and Shibuya. However, the pass cannot be used on Tokyo Metro or private lines, requiring additional tickets for those services.

Is it necessary to reserve seats on Shinkansen trains in Tokyo?

While unreserved seating is available on many Shinkansen, it is often recommended to reserve seats in advance during busy travel seasons such as Golden Week or cherry blossom time. Reservations can be made online, at ticket counters, or via vending machines at major stations.

How do I get to Narita and Haneda airports by train from Tokyo?

To reach Narita Airport, board the Narita Express from Tokyo Station (about 60 minutes). Alternatively, the Keisei Skyliner departs from Ueno Station in approximately 41 minutes. For Haneda Airport, the Tokyo Monorail leaves from Hamamatsucho Station (15 minutes) or take the Keikyu Line from Shinagawa Station.

Can I buy Shinkansen tickets at the last minute?

Yes, Shinkansen tickets can be purchased on the day of travel at ticket machines or counters at major stations. However, during peak seasons, trains may fill up quickly, particularly reserved seats. Booking in advance is recommended to ensure your preferred seating and to avoid potential delays.

What are the main train stations in Tokyo for tourists?

Key stations for tourists include Tokyo Station, which serves the Shinkansen and offers long-distance travel; Shinjuku Station, suitable for regional connections; Shibuya Station, close to various landmarks; and Ueno Station, which provides access to cultural sites like Ueno Park. These stations facilitate both local and high-speed train services.

What is the best way to get from Tokyo to Osaka by train?

The fastest option for traveling from Tokyo to Osaka is the Tokaido Shinkansen. The Nozomi service, the quickest, covers the distance of approximately 515 kilometers in around 2.5 hours. Tickets can be purchased in advance online or at ticket machines. For those using a Japan Rail Pass, the Hikari and Kodama services are available but may take slightly longer.

How to buy Shinkansen tickets from Tokyo to Osaka or Kyoto and get the best views?

To view Mount Fuji while traveling to Osaka or Kyoto, reserve a seat on the right side of the Shinkansen. This increases the chance of seeing the mountain, contingent on clear weather conditions. It is advisable to book tickets in advance, especially during peak travel periods.

What are the main train connections in Tokyo?

Tokyo features an extensive rail network with significant connections for both local and long-distance travel. Major Shinkansen lines connect Tokyo with cities like Osaka, Kyoto, and Nagoya, while the Yamanote Line circles the city linking important areas. Regional lines such as the Keihin-Tohoku and Chuo Line make it straightforward to travel to nearby cities.

Can I use a Japan Rail Pass on Tokyo's local trains?

Yes, the Japan Rail Pass can be utilized on JR lines within Tokyo, including the Yamanote Line, which connects major areas like Shinjuku and Shibuya. However, the pass cannot be used on Tokyo Metro or private lines, requiring additional tickets for those services.

Is it necessary to reserve seats on Shinkansen trains in Tokyo?

While unreserved seating is available on many Shinkansen, it is often recommended to reserve seats in advance during busy travel seasons such as Golden Week or cherry blossom time. Reservations can be made online, at ticket counters, or via vending machines at major stations.

How do I get to Narita and Haneda airports by train from Tokyo?

To reach Narita Airport, board the Narita Express from Tokyo Station (about 60 minutes). Alternatively, the Keisei Skyliner departs from Ueno Station in approximately 41 minutes. For Haneda Airport, the Tokyo Monorail leaves from Hamamatsucho Station (15 minutes) or take the Keikyu Line from Shinagawa Station.

Can I buy Shinkansen tickets at the last minute?

Yes, Shinkansen tickets can be purchased on the day of travel at ticket machines or counters at major stations. However, during peak seasons, trains may fill up quickly, particularly reserved seats. Booking in advance is recommended to ensure your preferred seating and to avoid potential delays.

What are the main train stations in Tokyo for tourists?

Key stations for tourists include Tokyo Station, which serves the Shinkansen and offers long-distance travel; Shinjuku Station, suitable for regional connections; Shibuya Station, close to various landmarks; and Ueno Station, which provides access to cultural sites like Ueno Park. These stations facilitate both local and high-speed train services.

What is the best way to get from Tokyo to Osaka by train?

The fastest option for traveling from Tokyo to Osaka is the Tokaido Shinkansen. The Nozomi service, the quickest, covers the distance of approximately 515 kilometers in around 2.5 hours. Tickets can be purchased in advance online or at ticket machines. For those using a Japan Rail Pass, the Hikari and Kodama services are available but may take slightly longer.

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Trains to and from Tokyo - Info and Tickets