The Kiso Valley (Kisoji) is located in Nagano Prefecture and stretches north to south along the Kiso River. Known for being part of the historic Nakasendo trail during the Edo period, the area is dotted with preserved post towns including Narai-juku, Kiso-Fukushima, Agematsu (Nezame-no-Toko), and Tsumago-juku. Surrounded by deep mountains and rivers, this area retains the landscape of old Japan.
First-time visitors to the Kiso Valley always wonder: "How do I get there from Tokyo?" The good news is that it's quite straightforward, and once you know the route, you won't get lost. This guide will clearly explain how to get to the Kiso Valley from Tokyo.
Getting to Kiso Valley from Tokyo by Train
Let's start with the most recommended option: travelling to the Kiso Valley by train from Tokyo. There are two main routes to the Kiso Valley. If you're heading to Narai, take the Limited Express Azusa from Shinjuku. If you're heading to Tsumago, go via Nagoya. Either way, the journey time is roughly the same.
Route via Shinjuku and Shiojiri (Chuo Main Line)
From Shinjuku Station, take the Limited Express "Azusa" towards Matsumoto. You'll arrive at Shiojiri Station in about 2 hours and 30 minutes. From there, change to the Limited Express "Shinano" for about 35 minutes to Kiso-Fukushima. The total journey takes approximately 3 hours and 10 minutes. With just one change, this is a straightforward route.
Route via Tokyo and Nagoya (Shinkansen + Chuo Main Line)
From Tokyo Station, take the Tokaido Shinkansen "Nozomi" and arrive at Nagoya Station in about 1 hour and 35 minutes. From there, change to the Limited Express "Shinano" to reach various stations in the Kiso Valley. From Nagoya to Kiso-Fukushima takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, for a total journey time of approximately 3 hours and 10 minutes. This route is recommended if you want to enjoy the comfort of the Shinkansen.
Journey Times from Tokyo to Kiso Valley
Here are the approximate journey times from Tokyo to main destinations. Whether you go via Shinjuku or Nagoya, there isn't much difference in time. However, the Shinkansen costs more than the Limited Express Azusa, so if you want to save money, we recommend using the Limited Express Azusa.
Destination | Via Shinjuku | Via Nagoya |
|---|---|---|
Narai Station (Narai-juku) | Approx. 3 hours | Approx. 3 hrs. 20 min. |
Kiso Fukushima (central area) | Approx. 3 hrs 10 min | About 3 hours 10 min |
Kaminomatsu Station (sleep) | About 3 hours 20 min | About 3 hours |
Nagiso Station (Tsumago Inn) | About 3 hours 40 min. | About 2 hours and 50 minutes |
Important Points When Travelling to Kiso Valley from Tokyo
Here are several important things to note when travelling from Tokyo to the Kiso Valley by train.
Types of Tickets You'll Need
When using Shinkansen or limited express trains, you'll need two types of tickets: a base fare ticket and a limited express ticket. You can buy both together at JR ticket machines or at the "Midori-no-madoguchi" (green ticket office). Simply tell the station staff "to Kiso-Fukushima, by limited express" and they'll help you.
For the Shinkansen route, buy "Tokyo → Nagoya (Shinkansen)" and "Nagoya → Kiso-Fukushima (Limited Express Shinano + base fare)" separately.
Using the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass)
All the routes introduced here are operated by JR, so you can use your Japan Rail Pass. You can use it as is, but it's safer to reserve your seats in advance. The Limited Express "Azusa" and "Shinano" are covered by the JR Pass and are free to ride. However, please note that using the Shinkansen "Nozomi" with a JR Pass requires an additional fee.
Can You Use Suica and Other IC Cards?
Suica, the prepaid IC card that's taken for granted in Tokyo, often can't be used at small stations in the Kiso Valley.
For example, at Narai Station, Agematsu Station, and Minami-Kiso Station, there are no IC card readers at the ticket gates. You'll need to use paper tickets, so please be aware of this.
Kiso-Fukushima Station has a ticket office where you can buy your return tickets in advance for peace of mind. If you accidentally board with your Suica, tell the station staff and they'll exchange it for a paper ticket.
We Recommend Using Kiso-Fukushima Station as Your Base
If you're visiting the Kiso Valley for the first time, we recommend using Kiso-Fukushima Station as your base. From here, you can take day trips to Narai-juku and Tsumago-juku, and there are plenty of accommodation options and restaurants around the station.
