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If you’re planning a winter getaway to Japan, Hakuba is a destination you don’t want to miss. Nestled in the Japanese Alps, Hakuba is known for its breathtaking scenery, world-class skiing and snowboarding, and hot springs. However, before you can immerse yourself in all that Hakuba has to offer, you need to figure out how to get there.
In this blog, we’ll explore the best ways to travel from Tokyo to Hakuba. From trains to buses, cars to taxis, we’ll cover all your transportation options, as well as tips and recommendations to make your journey as smooth and enjoyable as possible. So, buckle up and get ready for an exciting adventure to your this awesome mountain village.
Getting to Hakuba From Tokyo
There are a few ways to get to hakuba from tokyo, but the three main options are definitely worth considering. Here’s a rundown of what you can expect:
Bus (Cheapest Method)
If you’re a solo traveler or a small group on a budget. The cheapest way to get to Hakuba from Tokyo is by taking the bus from Shinjuku Bus Terminal to Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal. Not only is it super affordable, but it’s also my top pick for solo travelers. As of now, it’ll cost you around 4500 yen per person during the day, give or take.
If you’re looking to book a bus to Hakuba from Tokyo, the Willer Express website can definitely come in handy.
Bullet Train + Bus (Fastest Method)
If you’re in a hurry to hit the slopes in Hakuba or explore the stunning scenery, the quickest way to get there is by taking the shinkansen or bullet train from Tokyo Station to Nagano Station, followed by a bus ride from Nagano Station to Hakuba Bus Terminal. The entire journey should take approximately three hours, and will cost around 10,000 yen.
That’s great news for international travelers who can now conveniently book their bullet train tickets online. However, it’s worth noting that the Hokuriku bullet train departs from Tokyo Station every 30 minutes, so if you don’t have a pre-booked ticket, you can still get one at the station on the day and be guaranteed to catch a train.
Please keep in mind that you will need to purchase separate tickets for the Hokuriku bullet train and the Nagano to Hakuba bus. You can conveniently book these tickets below and find more information
Hokuriku bullet train tickets:
Nagano to Hakuba bus tickets:
Azusa Express Train (Easiest Method)
If you’re looking for a comfortable and direct mode of transportation, the Azusa 3 direct express train from Shinjuku to Hakuba is a great choice. Once you arrive at Hakuba train station, it’s easy to catch a taxi to your accommodations.
The estimated travel time is around 4 hours and the cost is ¥8,100 for adults (12 and older), and ¥4,150 for kids between the ages of 6-11. If you’re sitting in non-reserved seating, children aged 5 and under can ride for free. Pretty sweet deal.
If you’re looking to purchase non-reserved seating for the Azusa 3 train to Hakuba, you can do so at the Shinjuku train station on the day of your travel.
If you prefer a reserved seat, you can either book it on the day of your travel at the station or reserve it in advance using a website like this one:
Most accommodations in Hakuba offer shuttle services to and from the train station, so it’s a good idea to check with your accommodation to see if this is an option. Alternatively, you can contact a local taxi company for details on rates and availability.
Alternate Methods
While the bus and train are the most popular ways to get to Hakuba, there are also other alternate methods to consider. Here are a few options you might want to explore:
Shared shuttle services: Many companies offer shared shuttle services from Tokyo to Hakuba. These services can be more expensive than the bus, but they offer a more personalized and comfortable experience. You can find these services through a simple Google search or by asking your accommodation for recommendations.
Rental cars: Renting a car is another option if you prefer to drive yourself. Keep in mind, however, that driving in snowy conditions can be challenging and requires experience. You will also need an international driver’s license to rent a car in Japan.
Private taxis: Private taxi services are available in Tokyo and Nagano. While this option can be more expensive than other methods, it offers a more flexible and convenient mode of transportation.
Regardless of which method you choose, the journey to Hakuba is an adventure in itself, with stunning scenery along the way.
We hope this guide has helped you plan your journey to Hakuba. If you have any further questions about how to get to Hakuba or anything else, feel free to ask us anything below. We are always happy to help you with your travel needs. Safe travels, and enjoy your adventure in Hakuba!
