How to Get from Tokyo to Yudanaka and Shibu Onsen in Nagano
27 August 2024
Yudanaka and Shibu Onsen are located side by side in the northern part of Nagano Prefecture, in the center of Japan. This area is known for its charming traditional hotels and natural hot springs. Nearby, you can also see wild monkeys bathing in hot springs at the Jigokudani Monkey Park which is also called “Snow Monkey”.
There are several ways to travel from Tokyo to Yudanaka station, from where Shibu Onsen is just a short walk. These are the Shinkansen (the Japanese bullet train), express buses, and rental cars. Out of these options, the Shinkansen is the fastest and most convenient.
Here, we will explain how to access Shibu Onsen using the Shinkansen.
Method | Travel Time | Cost | Notes |
Shinkansen | 2 hours and 30 minutes | About JPY10,000($70) | Transfer at Nagano Station to local train |
Express Bus | 5 hours | About JPY4,500($30) | Direct service, economical. However, it takes a long time. |
Rental Car | 3 hours and 30 minutes | Gas + rental fees + toll fee | Flexible schedule. However, the cost may exceed that of the Shinkansen. |
Journey from Tokyo to Yudanaka and Shibu Onsen via Nagano Station
The fastest way to get to Yudanaka and Shibu Onsen from Tokyo, is to take the Hokuriku Shinkansen bullet train from Tokyo to Nagano station, where you need to change trains. These bullet trains run every 15 to 30 minutes.
The total travel time is only 2 hours and 30 minutes.
There are four types of train on the Hokuriku Shinkansen.
Regarding how to buy tickets and take the Shinkansen, please see 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.
Train Type | Travel Time to Nagano | Estimated Fare | Reserved/Non-Reserved Seats |
Kagayaki | 1 hour and 20 minutes | About ¥9,000 ($55) | Reserved seats only |
Hakutaka | 1 hour and 30 minutes | Both reserved and non-reserved | |
Asama | 1 hour and 40 minutes | ||
Tsurugi | Does not stop at Nagano | - | - |
Notes:
The Hokuriku Shinkansen is covered by the Japan Rail Pass.
The "Kagayaki" is the fastest train and has only reserved seating.
The "Hakutaka" and "Asama" have both reserved and non-reserved seating.
The "Tsurugi" does not stop at Nagano.
The fares include the base fare and the Shinkansen surcharge. Additional fees will apply for 1st class and reserved seats. Please check the latest information before buying your tickets.
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.
How to Use the Nagano Electric Railway
Once you arrive at Nagano station, you change to a train operated by the Nagano Electric Railway. Your destination is the final stop, Yudanaka (湯田中). The journey takes about 45 minutes. Trains run every hour.
From inside the train, you can enjoy views of the beautiful mountains of Nagano.
How to Buy Tickets for the Nagano Electric Railway
You can buy tickets at the ticket office or from a ticket vending machine at Nagano Station. The machines have an English option available. The fare from Nagano to Yudanaka is ¥1,190 ($7) as of August 2024.
Important Points:
The fare for children aged 6 to under 12 is half of the regular fare. Additionally, up to two children under 6 years old can travel for free with an adult.
You can only pay with cash at the machines. Credit cards and transportation IC cards such as SUICA are not accepted.
There are both local trains (stopping at all stations) and express trains (with limited stops), but all trains stop at Yudanaka. Therefore, we recommend taking an express train.
An express ticket costs ¥100 for adults and ¥50 for children and can also be purchased at the machine.
Reserving Seats in Advance
You can reserve seats online below.
It is generally not necessary to reserve seats but at peak Japanese holiday times when demand is high, we recommend doing so. These holidays are: Japanese New Year (January), Golden Week (May) and the main summer holiday season (the entire month of August). You can reserve seats online below.
Link: https://nagaden-reserve.jp/?lang_key=en
Getting from Yudanaka Station to Shibu Onsen
From Yudanaka Station to Shibu Onsen, you can take a local bus or taxi, which takes about 10 minutes. The bus stop is right outside the station, and buses run frequently. Please check the bus fare in advance. If you prefer a taxi, the cost is usually between ¥1,500 ($10) and ¥2,000 ($15), which is convenient for groups or those with lots of luggage.
