How to get to Tokyo Station Train Station

Tokyo Station Complete Guide

Tokyo Station serves as the primary railway hub for Japan and marks the starting point for countless journeys across the nation. Situated right in the heart of the city, it seamlessly connects Tokyo with major destinations such as Kyoto, Osaka, Nagano, and Hokkaido via the high-speed Shinkansen bullet trains, alongside local JR lines, underground subways, and dedicated airport routes.

Where Is the Shinkansen Station in Tokyo?

The primary Shinkansen station in Tokyo is Tokyo Station itself.

This is where the vast majority of bullet trains depart for destinations right across Japan, including Kyoto, Osaka, Nagano, Sendai, and Kanazawa. Whilst a few Shinkansen trains also call at nearby stations such as Ueno or Shinagawa, Tokyo Station is the ultimate starting point for travellers, particularly those arriving from central Tokyo or transferring from other regional trains in Japan.

Inside Tokyo Station, the Shinkansen areas are divided into distinct zones depending on your route. The Tokaido Shinkansen, which travels towards Kyoto and Osaka, is situated on the Yaesu side of the station. Alternative lines, such as the Tohoku and Hokuriku Shinkansen, depart from a separate section of the station, but all are prominently marked with bilingual signs reading “Shinkansen.”

Shinkansen Lines Departing from Tokyo Station

Tokyo Station is the focal departure point for Japan’s high-speed Shinkansen network. From here, travellers can access multiple bullet train lines connecting the capital with major cities across the country. Because all principal routes either start or stop here, Tokyo Station remains the most vital Shinkansen hub for international visitors.

Tokaido Shinkansen (for Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima) The Tokaido Shinkansen is undoubtedly the most popular line for tourists. It links Tokyo directly with Kyoto, Osaka, and destinations further afield such as Hiroshima and Fukuoka. Trains on this line operate incredibly frequently throughout the day, making it the fastest and most convenient method to travel between Tokyo and western Japan.

Tohoku Shinkansen (for Sendai, Aomori, and Hokkaido) The Tohoku Shinkansen journeys north from Tokyo to cities including Sendai, Morioka, Aomori, and onwards to Hokkaido via the Hokkaido Shinkansen. This route is highly popular with holidaymakers heading to northern Japan for pristine nature, winter ski resorts, or regional sightseeing.

Hokuriku Shinkansen (for Nagano and Kanazawa) The Hokuriku Shinkansen connects Tokyo with Nagano, Toyama, and Kanazawa. This line is frequently used by travellers visiting the dramatic Japanese Alps, historic samurai districts, and traditional coastal towns.

Because multiple Shinkansen lines depart from Tokyo Station, it is vital to check your route in advance and follow the specific signs for your line once inside the station.

How to Get on Your Shinkansen at Tokyo Station

Tokyo Station ranks as one of the largest and busiest transport hubs in Japan. Because the complex is split into multiple buildings, entrances, ticket gates, and platforms, the correct route through the station depends entirely on your destination. Knowing exactly which entrance and Shinkansen gate to use will save you a significant amount of time.

Let’s look at how to properly navigate Tokyo Station to reach your Shinkansen platform.

Know your Entrance at Tokyo Station

Tokyo Station is broadly split into two main sides: Marunouchi and Yaesu. If you are catching a Shinkansen, the Yaesu side is usually the easiest entry point.

Marunouchi Side

• Historic red-brick facade
• Closest to the Imperial Palace and the main business district
• Best suited for local JR lines and city exits

Yaesu Side

• Modern side featuring hotels, shops, and bus terminals
• Closest to the Shinkansen ticket offices and platforms
• The highly recommended entrance for most long-distance travellers

Where are you travelling to?: Navigation Depending on Your Destination

Travelling to Nagoya, Kyoto, or Osaka If you are heading to western Japan, including destinations like:

• Nagoya
• Kyoto
• Osaka
• Hiroshima

you should follow signs for the: Tokaido Shinkansen

Step-by-step navigation

• Enter via the Yaesu Central Entrance or the Yaesu South Entrance
• Look for signs reading “Tokaido Shinkansen” (these will be colour-coded orange)
• Proceed through one of the designated Tokaido Shinkansen gates:
  • Central Transfer Gate
  • South Transfer Gate
  • Yaesu Shinkansen Gate
• Your platforms are typically 14–19
• The electronic departure boards clearly display train names such as:
  • Nozomi
  • Hikari
  • Kodama

If you spot these train names, you are absolutely in the correct area.

Travelling to Tohoku & Northern Japan If you are travelling to:

• Sendai
• Fukushima
• Morioka
• Aomori
• Akita
• Yamagata
• Hokkaido

you should follow signs for the: Tohoku Shinkansen

Step-by-step navigation

• You can enter from either side of the station, but the Yaesu North Entrance is usually the most convenient
• Follow the green signs reading “Tohoku / Hokuriku / Hokkaido Shinkansen”
• Use specific gates such as:
  • North Shinkansen Gate
  • Central Shinkansen Gate
• Your platforms are typically 20–23
• Train names to look out for include:
  • Hayabusa
  • Yamabiko
  • Komachi
  • Nasuno

If you see these names, you are in the correct northern Shinkansen zone.

How to Get Your Shinkansen Tickets

Booking and Redeeming Shinkansen Tickets:

1. Search Your Route: Enter your departure and arrival cities (such as Tokyo to Osaka or Nagoya to Kyoto), alongside your desired travel dates, into the Omio search bar.
2. Compare Options: Browse through a variety of travel options and easily compare operators, departure times, and ticket prices.
3. Secure Your Booking: Select your preferred ticket and proceed to a secure payment gateway. Omio accepts multiple currencies, including GBP.
4. Reserve your seat (optional): Enjoy peace of mind before you travel by selecting and securing your specific seats.
5. Receive Your QR Code: A digital QR code for your ticket will be sent to your email and safely stored within the Omio app, ready to be scanned at a station ticket machine in Tokyo Station to print your physical Shinkansen tickets.
6. Find a Ticket Machine at Tokyo Station: These are usually very easy to spot, as they are clearly signposted “Shinkansen and JR Line Tickets.”

7. Redeem Your Tickets: Once you arrive at one of the ticket machines highlighted above, select English from the language options. Choose “Read QR Code.” Scan your QR code to instantly redeem your tickets.

Tip: Check your booking confirmation email from Omio. You will find all the necessary reference numbers you might be asked to enter. Tip: The station staff at the ticket offices are incredibly helpful if you need assistance booking or redeeming your tickets. If you are ever unsure about using the ticket machine, simply head to the office pictured below.

This quick video demonstrates exactly how to collect your tickets:

How to board the Shinkansen

You will receive two distinct tickets to board the Shinkansen: one is your basic fare ticket, and the other is a super express (Limited Express) ticket. If you have reserved a seat, your super express ticket will have your specific carriage and seat number printed on it.

• Go to the Ticket Gates: Once you have your physical tickets, approach the automated ticket gate showing a green arrow. Insert both the basic fare ticket and the super express ticket into the machine simultaneously, then remember to collect them as they pop out the other side.
• Find your Platform: Your platform number will be displayed on the large electronic departure boards. Locate the number and head straight to the platform. Platforms for the Tokaido line, which services Nagoya, Kyoto, and Osaka (Shin-Osaka), are usually 14 to 19.
• Find your Carriage: Once on the platform, look for the digital signs indicating where each carriage stops; you can also look for painted numbers on the platform floor that correspond to the carriage number on your ticket.
• Boarding: Once you have settled into your seat, the train conductor may come through the carriage to inspect your ticket.

Good to Know About Tokyo Station

Tokyo Station is one of the grandest railway stations in Japan, featuring multiple levels, vast entrances, and interconnected underground passageways. Familiarising yourself with the basic layout of the station can make transfers far smoother and help you locate your train without any stress.

Marunouchi Side vs Yaesu Side Tokyo Station is defined by two primary sides. The Marunouchi side is the historic red-brick facade facing the Imperial Palace and the commercial business district. This area is highly popular for local sightseeing, luxury hotels, and corporate offices.

The Yaesu side functions as the main transportation hub. The vast majority of Shinkansen gates, long-distance coach stops, taxi ranks, and extensive shopping centres are located over here. If you are taking the Tokaido Shinkansen towards Kyoto or Osaka, you will generally need to head towards the Yaesu side.

Underground Levels and Passageways Much of navigating Tokyo Station actually takes place underground. Wide subterranean passageways connect local JR lines, underground subway stations, shopping arcades, and exits across both sides of the station. Signage is posted frequently in both English and Japanese; following the specific line name or platform number is usually far more reliable than searching for a specific exit first.

Because these underground areas are so extensive, it is wise to allow for extra walking time when transferring between local rail lines and the Shinkansen platforms.

Finding the Shinkansen Platforms The Shinkansen platforms are physically separated from the local train platforms by dedicated ticket gates. Look for overhead signage marked “Shinkansen” alongside your specific line name, such as the Tokaido Shinkansen or Tohoku Shinkansen. The departure boards located near the gates will display train names, exact departure times, and the corresponding platform numbers.

Once you have passed through the Shinkansen gate, the platforms are clearly numbered and very easy to locate via stairs, escalators, or lifts. Provided you follow the platform number displayed on your ticket or digital reservation, you should have no trouble at all finding your train.

Popular Routes from Tokyo Station

Tokyo Station is one of the most vital transportation hubs in Japan, providing direct, high-speed connections to major cities, international airports, and regional destinations. Whether you are travelling across the breadth of the country by Shinkansen or simply moving around Tokyo, many of the most common routes for international visitors begin right here.

Tokyo Station → Kyoto / Osaka (Tokaido Shinkansen) The absolute most popular route for international travellers is the journey from Tokyo to either Kyoto or Osaka. The Tokaido Shinkansen connects these major cities in roughly 2.5 to 3 hours, making it the fastest and most highly convenient way to travel between eastern and western Japan. Exceptionally frequent departures throughout the day mean you can almost always find a train that perfectly fits your schedule.

Tokyo Station → Narita Airport Tokyo Station provides direct access to Narita Airport via the dedicated Narita Express (N’EX). The journey takes approximately one hour and offers highly comfortable seating, dedicated luggage space, and fully reserved seats, making it a brilliant option for travellers heading to or returning from international flights.

Tokyo Station → Shinjuku / Shibuya For quick travel within Tokyo itself, the local JR Yamanote Line connects Tokyo Station directly with major metropolitan districts such as Shinjuku and Shibuya in just 15–30 minutes. These highly frequent local trains are often the absolute easiest way to reach central hotels, shopping centres, and entertainment districts. Picking up a smart IC Card, such as Suica or PASMO, allows for effortless tap-and-go travel on these local lines.

Tokyo Station → Nagano (Hokuriku Shinkansen) The Hokuriku Shinkansen delivers direct, high-speed service from Tokyo Station straight to Nagano in roughly 1.5 hours. This route is incredibly popular with travellers heading to the alpine mountain resorts, historic temple towns, or onwards to Kanazawa on the picturesque Sea of Japan coast.

More Ways to Explore Japan

Whilst the Shinkansen network is perfect for high-speed travel, there are many alternative ways to navigate the country. If you are travelling on a budget, looking into coaches in Japan—such as the highly reliable Willer Express—can be an incredibly cost-effective option. Alternatively, taking Japan domestic flights allows you to cover vast distances quickly. For those wishing to visit the breathtaking outer islands, there are also excellent passenger ferries in Japan operating from various coastal ports.

Facilities at Tokyo Station

Luggage Storage and Coin Lockers Coin lockers are widely available throughout Tokyo Station, particularly near the major entrances, key underground passages, and Shinkansen gates. These lockers come in a variety of sizes, including large ones suitable for storing full-sized suitcases. However, availability can vary significantly during busy holiday periods—such as the peak cherry blossom season or during the balmy early summer months—so arriving early or being prepared to check multiple locker areas is highly recommended.

In addition to the coin lockers, several service counters offer dedicated luggage delivery within Japan, allowing you to forward your suitcase directly to your hotel or next destination. If you intend to bring large luggage directly onto the Shinkansen, ensure you familiarise yourself with the specific oversized baggage rules beforehand.

Restrooms and Accessibility Restrooms are conveniently located across all levels of Tokyo Station and are clearly signposted in English. The majority include fully accessible facilities, dedicated baby-changing areas, and multipurpose restrooms. Because the station footprint is so large, it is often easiest to use the nearest restroom before making your way to the platform, rather than frantically searching once you are close to your departure time.

Restaurants, Bento Shops, and Cafés Tokyo Station is highly celebrated for its incredible food options. Near the Shinkansen entrances, you will find an array of shops selling ekiben—beautifully presented boxed meals, like the picture below, specifically designed for train travel. There are also superb sushi restaurants, ramen shops, boutique cafés, and bakeries located both inside the ticket gates and throughout the sprawling underground shopping arcades.

Purchasing food before boarding the Shinkansen is incredibly common, and many travellers consider selecting the perfect ekiben to be an essential part of the journey.

Shopping Areas Inside the Station Several extensive shopping zones connect directly to Tokyo Station. Gransta, located inside the station itself, offers a wealth of souvenirs, traditional sweets, and travel goods. Meanwhile, Tokyo Character Street and Tokyo Ramen Street in the underground sections are immensely popular with visitors looking for unique gifts and top-tier dining.

These areas make it brilliantly easy to pick up gifts, snacks, or travel essentials without ever having to leave the station.

FAQ about Tokyo Station