How to Travel to Ikaho Onsen from Tokyo in Just 2 Hours
29 August 2024
If you're visiting Japan, experiencing the hot spring culture is a must do. Ikaho Onsen, conveniently situated just two hours from Tokyo, offers breathtaking mountain views as well as the charms of a traditional hot spring town. This article explains how to get to Ikaho Onsen from Tokyo.
The best places to visit in Ikaho Onsen
Discover the best attractions in Ikaho Onsen, a traditional hot spring town just 2 hours from Tokyo. Explore scenic stone steps, historical sites, and hot springs, including those welcoming visitors with tattoos.
Routes to Ikaho Onsen from Tokyo
We recommend two routes from Tokyo to Ikaho Onsen, especially for tourists. Here, we explain the different types of tickets available for each route and how to purchase them.
Route 1: Shinkansen, Local Train, and Bus (via Shibukawa Station)
On this route, you take the JR Shinkansen and a local JR train to get to Shibukawa Station and then a bus to Ikaho Onsen. If you have a Japan Rail Pass, this route is the most cost-effective since you can take the train for free.
Japan Rail Pass allows you unlimited travel on JR lines
The Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) offers unlimited travel on JR trains across Japan, making it a must-have for tourists. Learn about the different types of JR Passes, how to purchase one, and important tips, including restrictions on Nozomi and Mizuho Shinkansen trains.
Travelling from Tokyo to Takasaki Station by Shinkansen
Begin your journey on the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Takasaki Station. You can take the train at either Tokyo Station or Ueno Station. For details on how to travel by Shinkansen, please refer to the article below.
Train Guides in Japan: How to take the train
Taking the train in Japan is essential. Learn how to buy tickets and use the 'Welcome Suica' card for JR, subways, and private railways, plus the benefits of the Japan Rail Pass.
Routes: Joetsu Shinkansen or Hokuriku Shinkansen
Departure Stations: Tokyo Station or Ueno Station
Cost: From £30 (Or free with a Japan Rail Pass)
Travel Time: 50 minutes
Reservation: Recommended, available on the day
Ticket Purchase: At station ticket offices or JR-East Train Reservation(https://www.eki-net.com)
Transfer from Takasaki to Shibukawa Station
Upon arrival at Takasaki, switch to a local JR train heading to Shibukawa Station.
Route: JR Joetsu Line
Cost: £3 (Or free with a Japan Rail Pass)
Travel Time: 25 minutes
Reservation: Not required
Ticket Purchase: At station ticket machines, IC Cards are also accepted
Overseas travellers have a chance to use the "Mobile Suica"
Mobile Suica in Japan can also be used by tourists from outside of Japan. However, while iPhones are compatible, most Android devices sold overseas cannot install Mobile Suica. Here, we introduce the installation method and points to note for installing Mobile Suica on iPhones.
Boarding the Bus at Shibukawa Station
At Shibukawa Station, proceed to the bus terminal and take the bus to Ikaho Onsen.
Bus Operator: Kan-etsu Transportation Co., Ltd.(https://www.kan-etsu.net/)
Route: Shibukawa Ikaho Onsen Line
Boarding Area: Bus terminal 3 in front of Shibukawa Station
Travel Time: 30 minutes
Reservation: Not required
Ticket Purchase: On the bus, IC Cards accepted
Route 2: Direct Bus from Tokyo
Alternatively, take a direct bus from Tokyo, departing from locations such as Shinjuku or Tokyo Station, straight to Ikaho Onsen. This route is straightforward and ideal for those with luggage or preferring a direct journey.
Bus Operator: JR Bus Kanto
Route: Tokyo/Shinjuku - Kusatsu Onsen/Ikaho Onsen
Departure Points: Tokyo Station, Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal
Travel Time: About 2 hours
Reservation: Recommended
Ticket Purchase: Japan Express Bus Net(https://www.japanbusonline.com)