The route from Iiyama to Tokyo is primarily served by the Nagano Shinkansen, specifically the Asama service. This train travels at speeds up to 260 km/h (161 mph), making it one of the fastest options available for this journey. The travel time is approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, providing an efficient connection between the two cities. The Asama Shinkansen offers standard and Green class seating, catering to both budget-conscious travelers and those looking for a more comfortable ride.
In comparison, the local limited express train, the Hokuriku Shinkansen (partially running on slower segments), takes longer, usually around 2 hours and 20 minutes, as it makes several additional stops, serving smaller towns along the way.
Onboard amenities are similar for both services, including spacious seating and food and beverage options, though the accommodations might vary slightly in the Green class of the Nagano Shinkansen. Passengers can expect a smooth ride with scenic views of the Japanese countryside during their journey.