How to Travel to Ikaho Onsen from Tokyo in Just 2 Hours

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.

Chubu area

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.

12 May 2025

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.

Train and Bus

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.

18 July 2025

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 and Bus

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.

18 July 2025

Train and Bus

How to buy Shinkansen (A Japanese Bullet Train) Tickets at the station

Explain how to purchase Shinkansen bullet train tickets step by step. Includes essential tips for large luggage pre-booking, payment methods, and seat types.

8 August 2025

• 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

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

Train and Bus

Overseas travellers must install the Welcome Suica Mobile app

In March 2025, the Welcome Suica Mobile App was released for iPhone. This traveler-focused Suica app is essential to download. Unfortunately, Android devices are not supported.

26 August 2025

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.

• 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