Experiences & Reviews

How to Get to Shibuya from Narita Airport|Comparing the Skyliner, Narita Express, and Highway Bus

There are five main ways to access central Tokyo from Narita Airport (New Tokyo International Airport).

1. Express Bus (Airport Limousine Bus)
2. Railways ① Keisei Skyliner (express train with all seats reserved)
3. Railway ② Rapid train on Keisei Line
4. Railway ③ JR’s Narita Express limited express train
5. Taxi

*Please note that there is no Grab or Uber in Japan.

Characteristics of Transportation Between Narita Airport and Central Tokyo

1. Express Bus (Airport Limousine Bus)

Direct service runs not only between Narita Airport and terminal stations such as Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Tokyo Stations, but also to major hotels, towns outside Tokyo, regional cities, and various other locations. It is also convenient because it departs from the arrival lobby.
Recommended for: those who have a lot of luggage, want to make the most of their time, or are unfamiliar with Tokyo.

2. Railways ① Keisei Skyliner (express train with all seats reserved)

This is an all-seat limited express train that connects Narita Airport to Nippori Station and Ueno Station (Keisei Ueno Station) in approximately 40 minutes.
The buses run approximately every 20 minutes from approximately 7:30 AM to 11:00 PM
Recommended for: speed and comfort

3. Railway ② Rapid train on Keisei Line

This conventional line connects Narita Airport with Nippori Station and Ueno Station (Keisei Ueno Station).
It is an inexpensive and stable way to travel, although it may take longer and requires transfers.
Recommended for: cheapness and punctuality

4. Railway ③ JR’s Narita Express limited express train (all seats reserved)

This is an all-seat limited express train operated by JR East connecting Narita Airport with Tokyo, Shinagawa, Shibuya, and Shinjuku stations.
Recommended for: those who wish to go to Tokyo Station, Shinagawa Station, Shibuya Station, Shinjuku Station or Yokohama Station without changing trains on schedule.

5. Taxi

Many cabs are waiting at the airport. It is possible to board a cab without a reservation and go anywhere you wish. In addition to regular metered cabs, there are also fixed fare airport cabs. Flat fare cabs (airport cabs) are also available without a reservation.
The fare from Narita Airport to central Tokyo costs approximately 30,000 yen.

* There is no Grab or Uber service in Japan.


Ranking of Popular Sightseeing Spots in Tokyo

Number of visitors
1st Shibuya 2nd Shinjuku/Okubo 3rd Ginza

Satisfaction
1st
Shibuya 2nd Akihabara 3rd Ginza

*Source: From the 2023 Survey Report on the Behavioral Characteristics of Foreign Travelers by Country/Region.

Most travelers stop at Shibuya as their first destination.

What kind of town is Shibuya?


Access Comparison Chart from Narita Airport to Shibuya

Means of TransportationTime RequiredNumber of TransfersCostWIFI / Power supplyBoarding Area
Highway Bus

Official HP
1 hour and 40 minutes0 times3,600 yenIncludedArrivals Lobby
T1 Bust stop No. 10
T2 Bus stop No. 17
T3 Bus stop No. 9
Skyliner

Official HP
1 hour and 30 minutes1 timeApprox. 2,800 yenIncludedUnderground
Because there is no station at *T3,
Please board the train from T2.
Regular Train
(esp. non-Shinkansen)
1 hour and 40 minutes1 or 2 timesApprox. 1,500 yenN/AUnderground
Because there is no station at *T3,
Please board the train from T2.
Narita Express

Official HP
1 hour and 20 minutes0 timesApprox. 3,300 yenIncludedUnderground
Because there is no station at *T3,
Please board the train from T2.
Cab1 hour and 30 minutes0 timesApprox. 30,000 yenN/AArrivals Lobby

Highway Bus (Airport Limousine Bus) Experience from Narita Airport to Shibuya

Flights departing the night before from Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi International Airport, Ho Chi Minh City’s Tan Son Nhat International Airport, or Singapore’s Changi International Airport all arrive at Narita Airport around 7:00AM to 8:30AM one after another. The flight I boarded from Bangkok also took about 6 hours to arrive at Narita Airport. By the time I arrived in Japan, it was only 8:00 AM.

The flight was short and I felt sleep deprived. After getting off the plane, we proceeded through immigration, baggage claim, customs, and arrived safely at the arrival lobby of Terminal 1 (T1) before 9:00. There’s so many ways to get to Shibuya, but should I take a bus? the train?

Since I wanted to sleep a little longer and had a lot of luggage, I decided to take an express bus (airport limousine bus) that goes directly to Shibuya, which I could board right in front of the arrival lobby.
As you can see in the photo, there was an express bus ticket sales counter right in front of me as I exited the arrival lobby.
It is located right in front of Narita Airport Terminal 1 (T1) North Wing, or South Wing, depending on which one you arrive at.

After arriving, I immediately purchased a highway bus ticket to Shibuya. There was only a 9:20 AM. highway bus bound for Shibuya available.

Route:
Narita Airport Terminal 3 (T3)
 ↓
Terminal 2 (T2)
 ↓
Terminal 1 (T1)
 ↓
Shibuya Station (Shibuya Fuclas)
 ↓
Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel
The bus stopped at Shibuya Mark City (Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu) in that order.

Express bus tickets can be purchased at a manned counter or from an automatic ticket vending machine, which is available in English, Korean, and Chinese as well as Japanese. Tickets should be bought at the machine by credit card.

Purchase a boarding pass and go outside the arrival lobby.
Go to Terminal 1, bus stop No. 10, which is the bus stop for the highway bus to Shibuya.
For North Wing arrivals, exit from the North Exit (N2) in front of you and you will see the express bus stop #1. After that, walk along the street to stop #10 (about 2 minutes). For South Wing arrivals, exit from the South Exit (S2), and bus stop No. 10 will be right in front of you.

(See the overall map of the T1 bus stop for a clearer view.)

As I waited for the express bus bound for Shibuya to arrive at Terminal 1, Bus Stop No. 10, people began to line up.

The photo on the left shows a convenience store in the South Wing arrival lobby.
You may want to shop here for water and snacks, just in case!
Credit cards were also accepted here, so there is no need to worry even if you haven’t exchanged your currency yet.
To exchange money into Japanese yen, the Tourist Information Center at the Shibuya Fukuras Bus Terminal is convenient.

As the attendant was making her rounds with the passengers, I realized more and more people were showing up for the Shibuya bus.
Bus stop No. 10 doubled as both a bus stop for express buses bound for Shibuya and Tokyo Station, separating customers bound for Shibuya (the first bus to arrive) and Tokyo Station (the second bus to arrive) into two rows.
The attendant will ask you if you want to go to Shibuya, and if you say “Shibuya,” he or she will direct you to the Shibuya-bound line.
The bus bound for Shibuya comes first, so they put the suitcases to be checked in the trunk of our bus closer to the road. Each person can leave up to two suitcases in the trunk of the express bus bound for Shibuya.
(As shown in the photo on the right, two lines will be formed. The line closer to the road is for Shibuya.)

9:18 AM
A high speed bus bound for Shibuya entered platform 10.
Suitcases left on the side of the road will be placed in the trunk of the bus by the attendant, so you only have to board the bus with your hand luggage.

Seats are unreserved; passengers who boarded from T3 or T2 were already seated, so I sat in an empty seat.

9:21 AM
Departure was 1 minute behind schedule.
The train was equipped with Wi-Fi and restroom facilities, but with a little sleep deprivation and the comfortable shaking of the bus, I fell asleep quickly. The seats were also equipped with electrical outlets, so I charged my phone before I slept.

10:30 AM
I was awakened by an announcement.
It appears that we will be arriving at Shibuya shortly.

10:40 AM
The express bus from Narita Airport had almost no traffic and arrived at the Shibuya Fukurusu Bus Terminal right in front of Shibuya Station at around 10:40 AM, 15 minutes earlier than the scheduled time. The ride was so comfortable that I slept through the whole bus ride. I felt so refreshed afterwards despite my sleep deprivation. I think the best thing about taking a highway bus is that you can take your time to rest!
Next, mot of us got off at the Shibuya Fukuras Bus Terminal.
The highway bus will then head to Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel → Shibuya Mark City (Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu).

When you get off the bus, the tourist information center “shibuya-san” will be right in front of you.
It offers a variety of services related to sightseeing, including luggage storage, currency exchange, tourist information (with multilingual staff), Wi-Fi rental, smartphone charging service, and ticket sales for express buses and other services.
Next door was also Starbucks to my relief!

When I went to the back of the tourist information center, I found a café space and next to it, many suitcases. Many tourists left their luggage here. This is very convenient if you immediately want to start sightseeing in Shibuya! The staff also seemed to speak English and other languages, so I was able to talk to them easily.

We still had some time before our hotel check-in, so we decided to look around the Tourist Information Center. There was a place to rest and it was warm and heated.


At the info center, we learned about the ” SHIBUYA STREET RIDE ” sightseeing bus, an open-top bus that tours around the Shibuya area! This sightseeing bus allows you to see Shibuya in a different way and is fun for the family.

Conveniently, the departure time was also from the Shibuya Fukuras bus terminal where we are now! And the departure time is 11:25 AM, which was perfect!
I immediately left my luggage as the tourist information center and bought a ticket!
Tickets for “SHIBUYA STREET RIDE” are more economical to purchase on the web vs. at a ticket vending machine, so purchasing tickets on the web is recommended! → Discover the official website

The person at the counter was kind enough to tell us this tip, and there was also a QR code to the website on the counter, as shown in the photo. Of course, you can also purchase tickets from a ticket machine.

“SHIBUYA STREET RIDE” is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays except for national holidays. Please be careful.

The photo on the right shows the fee for baggage storage. Many people checked their baggage.

Business hours: 10:00-19:30
Large luggage: 1,000 yen per piece per day
Small luggage (55 cm high x 40 cm wide): 500 yen per piece per day

Around 11:00 AM
An open-top bus with a lively design entered the terminal.
Since I was there, I took pictures of the open-top bus from various angles to commemorate the event.
I quickly showed my ticket to the crew and boarded the train!

11:25 AM
And we were off for downtown! After a long overnight journey, we finally arrived at Shibuya.
It felt quite unique to experience the known spots such as Scramble Crossing and Hachiko from the open-top bus (SHIBUYA STREET RIDE). It gives you a different perspective of the area.

Walking around Shibuya afterwards became more enjoyable, and can be fun for the whole family.
You can also enjoy just sitting on the bus, which was nice after long flight and trip.

After enjoying Shibuya Scramble Crossing, Harajuku, Takeshita Street, Jingu Gaien, National Stadium, Omotesando, etc. on the bus for about an hour, we returned to the Shibuya Fukuras Bus Terminal.

After getting off the bus, passengers can enjoy sightseeing in Shibuya while looking at their smartphones with the “SHIBUYA STREET RIDE” passengers-only city walking guide, which picks up the highlights of the Shibuya area!

We took the daytime bus, but if you take the evening bus (6:20 PM), you can see the Omotesando illumination from the second floor of the open-top bus during the winter season. You romantically move under the lights at a leisurely pace; I wanted to try it the next time I come!

Around 12:30 PM
We returned to the Shibuya Fukuras bus terminal.

What should we have for our first lunch in Japan? We once again consulted with the tourist information!

Our journey in Japan has finally begun!


What kind of town is Shibuya?

Shibuya is the most popular and often the first stop for foreign tourists in Tokyo.
In Shibuya, you can feel the energy and dynamism of Tokyo.

Shibuya is home to Tokyo’s leading terminal station and is one of Tokyo’s most popular downtown areas.
It is also a popular and fashion and culture destination for young people comparable to Times Square in New York, Piccadilly Circus in London, and Siam in Bangkok.

What are popular places for foreign tourists near Shibuya Station and Shibuya Bus Terminal?

Shibuya Scramble Crossing: This is a world-famous intersection and a photo-op spot for many tourists.

Hachiko: A symbol of fidelity and love, Hachiko’s story is known not only in Japan but also around the world.

Shibuya 109: The center of Japanese fashion, where you can enjoy the latest trends.

SHIBUYA SKY: This new symbol of Shibuya is popular for its spectacular view from the rooftop observation deck 229 meters above the ground, from which you can see as far as Mt.Fuji.

SHIBUYA STREET RIDE: This is a regular sightseeing bus that allows passengers to enjoy the streets of Shibuya and the Shibuya area on a double-decker open-top bus.

Upon arrival in Japan, we recommend that you first head to Shibuya to enjoy the Shibuya area!

Details of Express Bus (Airport Limousine Bus) from Narita Airport to Shibuya

Details of Express Bus (Airport Limousine Bus) from Haneda Airport to Shibuya

shibuya-san” for luggage storage and tourist information in Shibuya


Access from Shibuya to Shinjuku, Ikebukuro, and Shinagawa

From Shibuya to Shinjuku, Ikebukuro, Shinagawa, etc. can be easily reached by train.

From JR Shibuya Station to JR Shinjuku
7 minutes by “Line 1” Yamanote Line (outbound)
5 minutes on Saikyo Line or Shonan Shinjuku Line

From Subway Shibuya Station to Shinjuku Sanchome Station
6 minutes by Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line

JR Ikebukuro Station from JR Shibuya Station
16 minutes by “Line 1” Yamanote Line (outbound)
11 minutes on Saikyo Line or Shonan Shinjuku Line

From Subway Shibuya Station to Subway Ikebukuro Station
12 minutes by Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line

JR Shinagawa Station from JR Shibuya station
15 minutes by “Line 2” Yamanote Line (inward bound)

Production cooperation: Tokyu Bus Corporation

Shirakawago Observation Deck Shuttle Bus Information

Topic: Shirakawago observatory, Shirakawago transportation Publish Date: 12/13/2024

What is the Shirakawago Observatory Deck?

Shirakawago Observation Deck

The Shirakawago Observation Deck (or Ogimachi Castle Observation Deck) is where guests can enjoy the iconic panoramic view of Shirakawago’s thatched houses and mountains. This viewpoint overlooks the entirety of the Shirakawago village and the mountains of Gifu Prefecture. Located on a steep incline, many tourists come here to take the perfect shot of the edo-themed Japanese village. Located near the bus terminal, it is easy to get to either by bus or by foot.


How To Get There

By Foot

  • Shirakawago Bus Terminal
    • ~15 minutes (by foot)
  • Shirakawago Observatory

By Shuttle Bus

  • Ogimachi Bus Stop (Next to the water lily pond)
    • ~10 minutes (by bus)
  • Shirakawago Observatory

Shirakawago Observatory Shuttle Time Table

The shuttle is scheduled to arrive every 20 minutes.

TimesOgimachi (boarding point)Shirakawago Observatory
9 00 20 4010 30 50
10 00 20 4010 30 50
11 00 20 4010 30 50
1210
1330 5030 50
14 00 20 4010 30 50
15 00 20 4010 30 50
1610

Shuttle Info:

Fare: 300 yen one way (cash payment on board) (no money exchange available)
*Service may not run on time due to snowfall, ice, or road conditions.
*Service may be suspended due to poor visibility, snowfall, or road conditions.


Ogimachi Bus Stop (Boarding Point)

Ogimachi is the name of the main town area in Shirakawago. The Ogimachi bus stop is located towards the north end of Shirakawago, directly in front of the water lily pond and next to the Wada House. Lines can get quite long in summer.


Ogimachi Castle (Shirakawago) Observation Deck

Observation Deck Details

There is a small restaurant (Doccorasho) which serves traditional Hida set meals and a cafe (Tenboudai Cafe) which serves a variety ice cream, snacks, souvenirs, and drinks by the observation deck. The parking lot next to the observatory is not available for commercial parking. You can reach this point only by walking or by the shuttle bus.

By foot
From Deai Bridge: ~30 minutes
From Wada House: ~20 mintues
From Shirakawago Bus Terminal: ~15 minutes
Google maps: Click here

Short Hiking Route (Alternative Walking Route)

There is a short hiking route to the observatory. Instead of the alternative concrete path east of the bus terminal, this path is surrounded by trees, a shrine, and castle ruins. It takes around 12 minutes to reach the observatory and is adjacent to the street left to the bus terminal.

*Note: This walking path is CLOSED in the winter.


TRYING TO TRANSFER TO OTHER TOURIST SPOTS FROM SHIRAKAWAGO BUS TERMINAL?

Shirakawago bus terminal has multiple connections to different tourist destinations.

>>> Read more here <<<

Shirakawago Luggage Storage / Coin Locker Info

Topic: Shirakawago coin locker price, Shirakawago bus terminal Publish Date: 12/09/2024
Shirakawago bus terminal coin lockers

Shirakawago Bus Terminal

The Shirawakago bus terminal has multiple coin lockers located on the outside of the bus terminal. There are several bus transfers that can be made from this bus terminal. Lockers are quite spacious and can fit large luggage easily. You can also ask the bus terminal to hold your luggage if there are no more lockers available. It will be stored in a separate building by the bus station.


Google maps: Storage 1, Storage 2, Coin Lockers


Operating Times: 8:00 AM ~ 5:00 PM

There are a total of 18 storage lockers at Shirakawago bus terminal. If the coin lockers are full, you can ask the reception desk to hold your luggage. Prices vary by size.

Type:PriceAmountSize (LxWxH)
Large Locker1000 yen977cm x 49cm x 116cm
Small Locker500 yen977cm x 49cm x 62cm
Reception~500 yen (depending on size)Up to 100Any
Note: Luggage cannot be stored over night. Please be careful to retrieve your luggage after hours.

Amount of Lockers

Total lockers: 18

Large lockers: 9 (77cm x 49cm x 116cm)

Small lockers: 9 (77cm x 49cm x 62cm)

shirakawago coin lockers inside

shirakawago bus terminal reception

Money Exchange

Larger bills can be exchanged for 100 yen coins at the reception desk.

Note: Breaking change for larger bills (10,000 yen or 5,000 yen) may be difficult so please prepare smaller bills if possible.


Shirakawago Bus Terminal Waiting Room

Facilities: Restroom, tourist center, large coin lockers, luggage storage, automatic foreign currency exchange, bus reservation counter, WIFI

Shirakawago Terminal Waiting Room

Here you can exchange money for coin lockers or pay to store your luggage in the separate buildings. You can also buy bus tickets connecting you to places such as Takayama, Kanazawa, and more.


TRYING TO TRANSFER TO OTHER TOURIST SPOTS FROM SHIRAKAWAGO BUS TERMINAL?

Shirakawago bus terminal has multiple connections to different tourist destinations.

>>> Read more here <<<

How to Buy Tickets for Shibuya Sky

Topic: Shibuya Sky Tickets/ Entrance Fee Info Post date: Nov 25th, 2024

What is Shibuya Sky?

Shibuya sky observation deck

Shibuya Sky is an observation deck located on the 46th floor and rooftop of Shibuya Scramble Square, a high-rise building directly connected to Shibuya Station. Standing at around 230m high, you can see the entirety of the city of Tokyo all the way to Mt.Fuji.

To enjoy Shibuya Sky, you need a ticket which states the date and time of entry. Entry times are in 20 minute intervals and there is no limit to how long a person can stay. You can stay as long as you want as long as it is within opening hours. Sunset times are most popular, but can sell out weeks in advance.


Shibuya Sky Ticket Types:

Ticket Types: Adult,  Middle / High Schoolers,  Elementary Schoolers,  Children (3-5y/o),  Under 3y/o


How to Get Tickets Regularly:

There are three main ways to get Shibuya Sky Tickets. 

Ticket CounterOfficial WebsiteOnline Travel Agency
Adult 2,500 yen2,200 yen2,500 yen
Middle / High Schoolers2,000 yen1,700 yen2,000 yen
Elementary Schoolers1,200 yen(Ticket window only)(Ticket window only)
Children (3-5 y/o)700 yen(Ticket window only)(Ticket window only)
Under 3y/oFreeFreeFree
*Notes-Can be quite congested
-Tickets often sold out
-Recommended for Japan residents to buy ASAP
-Evenings and weekends are sold out often
-Credit cards not issued in Japan not accepted
-Recommended for foreigners
-Credit cards not issued in Japan are accepted

1. Ticket Counter

Shibuya Scramble Square’s reception is on the 14th floor. You can buy tickets the day of, but there are many instances where tickets are sold out due to online reservations. We highly recommend reserving a ticket in advance.

You can buy tickets for elementary schoolers children (3-5 y/o), and children (under 3 y/o), only at the ticket counter.

If a child is accompanying an adult or middle/high schooler who has a ticket, you can still buy tickets for the child at the front desk, even if it is listed as sold out. 

The ticket counter is open from 10AM-9:20PM. 


2. Shibuya Sky’s Official Website

*This is a more economic method and is recommended for residents of Japan.

Buying on the official site is cheaper than going directly at the ticket counter. You can choose an entry time up to 4 weeks in advance. We recommend buying the tickets early. If you go to the ticket counter, it can also get quite busy in the evening and on the weekends.

If tickets reservations were canceled on the same day, the spot will open on the website.

*Note: You cannot use credit cards issued outside of Japan

Official website: Shibuya Sky Scramble


3. Online Travel Agency

*This method is recommended for foreign visitors to Japan.

Examples of online travel agencies are: Trip.com , KKday , Klook

You can make reservations for the day you’d like to enter up to 4 weeks in advance.

*Note: The evening and weekend times can be quite busy, so we recommend you to book far in advance.


still want shibuya sky tickets when they’re sold out at peak times?

There are special tickets available which allow you to enter Shibuya Sky during peak times, guaranteed.

>>> Read more here <<<

Going from Nagoya to Shirakawago and Takayama Day Tour

Topic: Nagoya day tours / Day trips from Nagoya / Nagoya Travel/ Shirakawago Day Trip Itinerary

Why Nagoya As A Base for Day Trips?

Nagoya as a Base

Nagoya is the 4th largest city in Japan. As it is in the center of Japan, it is in an ideal spot to travel from as it is very easily accessible to other areas. We recommend traveling from Nagoya as a base because it is very convenient, affordable, and most importantly, fun. We’ll explain how to get to Shirakawago, Takayama, and even Nara in the cheapest way possible from Nagoya below.

Benefits of Nagoya include:

  1. Easy Day Tours
    Day trips from Nagoya include “Shirakawago”, “Takayama”, “Nara”, and “Kyoto”. Each of these sightseeing spots can be accessed comfortably, allowing you to have a fulfilling day.
    By highway bus, you can conveniently go to Shirakawago in about 2 hours and 40 minutes one way, Takayama in about 2 hours and 50 minutes one way, Nara in about 2 hours and 30 minutes one way, and Kyoto in about 2 hours and 50 minutes one way.
  2. Convenience
    Nagoya is one of Japan’s major cities, and there are many restaurants open late at night and early in the morning. Whether it be early in the morning or late at night, you can always find a place to eat.
  3. Great Shopping
    With an abundance of department stores and bustling shopping streets, Nagoya is a perfect shopper’s paradise. You can find everything from the latest fashions to traditional souvenirs.
  4. Popular Theme Parks
    Nagoya has a variety of theme parks that you can enjoy with your family and friends, such as Ghibli Park and Legoland. They are perfect for making memories.
  5. Cheap Lodging
    Compared to Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, lodging costs in Nagoya are often cheaper. You can enjoy sightseeing and shopping while keeping travel costs low.

If you use Nagoya as your base, you can easily go to famous spots such as: Shirakawago, Takayama, and Nara all in less than 3 hours. We highly recommend you reserve bus tickets in advance as they often sell out!


Table of Contents

  1. Recommended Route ① Shirakawago and Takayama
  2. Recommended Route ②「Nara」

Shirakawago, registered as a World Heritage site, is a beautiful thatched-roof village built in the Gassho-zukuri style. The scenery is breathtaking no matter what time of year you visit.
With its old townscape, strolling in Takayama is like stepping back in time to old Japan. You can enjoy various local specialties as well as the infamous wagyu grade Hida beef.

Recommended one day trip route from Nagoya (1)
Shirakawago and Takayama

Getting to these two spots from Nagoya is fairly easy. You can get there by train, bus, or car, but going by bus is by far the cheapest method. We’ll teach you how to get to Shirakawago and Takayama by bus below.

Shirakawago

Shirakawago is a picturesque village which preserves a glimpse of ancient Japan with its traditional gassho-zukuri houses. Once remote and inaccessible, its preserved history and buildings eventually earned it recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Even today, it is not possible to go there directly by train, but with the opening of the expressway, going by express bus has become quite popular.

Takayama

Known as “Little Kyoto,” Takayama has a charming townscape that retains the atmosphere of the Edo period. Lined with traditional townhouses and beautiful wooden buildings, visitors will feel as if they have stepped back in time.

Nagoya ⇌ Shirakawago Highway Bus Online Reservation


* If you also want to go to Takayama, please book a one-way highway bus from Nagoya to Shirakawago.
* If you wish to go ticketless, please select Keitai Ticket as the ticket type.
* Keitai tickets will be sent to the e-mail address entered at the time of reservation.
* Web tickets must be printed.

Bus to Shirakawago and Takayama from Nagoya

Around 7:30 AM

I arrived at the Meitetsu Bus Center, located in the Meitetsu Department Store building near Nagoya Station.

The bus bound for Shirakawa-go departs from the third floor at bus stop 7.

Since I didn’t have much time, I bought breakfast at a convenience store on the third floor of the Meitetsu Bus Center and waited for the buses to arrive at the waiting room on the same third floor.

There is also a cafe (Doutor Coffee) on the 4th floor, but please note that it is only open from 7:30 AM to 7:00 PM.

Around 7:40 AM

A bus bound for Shirakawago enters bus stop No. 7.
Show your mobile ticket to the crew and board the bus. All seats are reserved, so sit in your seat indicated on the ticket and wait for the departure.
The bus is fully equipped with AC power and free Wifi for all seats, and a restroom at the end of the bus.

meitetsu bus center nagoya

Around 7:50 AM

Use the Meitetsu Bus to get to Shirakawago.

Next to Nagoya Station is the Meitetsu Bus Center.

(From Meitetsu Bus Center, 3rd floor, bus stop #7) Depart for Shirakawago.

 

meitetsu bus stop 7 going to Nagoya

Around 8:40 AM

Take a 10-minute break at the Hirugano service area.

Meitetsu Bus

Around 10:32 AM

Arrive at Shirakawago Bus Terminal.

Shirakawago bus terminal

Shirakawago Bus Terminal Information

This bus terminal is exclusively for local and highway buses and is conveniently located for sightseeing in Shirakawago.
It is convenient for visiting Gassho-zukuri villages and the Shirakawago Observatory.

Hours of operation: 8:30AM – 5:30PM
Facilities: waiting room, restroom, tourist center, large coin lockers, luggage storage, automatic foreign currency exchange, bus reservation counter, WIFI

For a detailed report of Shirakawago’s luggage storage (including measurements) click here.

Nagoya → Shirakawago Highway Bus Online Reservation

Travel time: ~2 hours and 40 minutes
Fare: 3,400 – 4,200 yen/person, one-way


Shirakawago Observatory

Upon arrival in Shirakawago, we recommend first visiting the Ogimachi Castle Ruins Observatory, which offers a panoramic view of Shirakawago.

Shirakawago Observation Deck View in the Winter


After viewing Shirakawa-go from the observatory, next visit Hagi-cho, the center of Shirakawa-go. Hagi-cho is a wonderful place where beautiful natural scenery and rich history are in harmony.

Distance by foot (from the bus terminal)

It is 15 minutes walk from Shirakawago Bus Terminal to the Shirakawago Observatory
Details (Google map)


Other Shirakawago Attractions

  1. Gassho-zukuri Houses
    Hagicho is lined with approximately 30 historic gassho-zukuri houses. These houses are a precious reminder of the traditional architectural style of the past, and are astonishing in both their beauty and functionality. Hagicho is part of the Shirakawago World Heritage Site area. It resembles the Edo Period (1603-1868) in Japan.
  2. Shirakawa Hachiman Shrine
    Shirakawa Hachiman Shrine is an ancient and historically significant Shinto shrine believed to have been founded in the 17th century. Surrounded by huge cedar trees, its known as one of the oldest areas of Shirakawago.
  3. Traditional Food and Fashionable Cafes
    In Hachigo you can cafe hop between the gassho-style houses. One of the famous foods in Shirakawago is soba noodles, and there are a lot of restaurants that serve it here. You can also buy a variety of snacks and walk through the streets as if you were living in old Japan.

After enjoying Shirakawago, take the express bus to Takayama.

A 1 hour trip from Shirakawago ⇒ Takayama

It takes about one hour from Shirakawago to Takayama.
This bus is available by reservation or by non-reservation.
We recommend making a reservation as this is a busy route.

By reservation only:

Shirakawago 12:35 → Takayama 13:25
Shirakawago 13:30 → Takayama 14:20
Shirakawago 13:50 → Takayama 14:50

Non-reserved regular (first-come, first-served):

Shirakawago 13:15 → Takayama 14:05

Shirakawa-go Bus Terminal

Fare: 2,600 yen/one-way (revised in December 2024, to be confirmed)

Shirakawago → Takayama Highway Bus Online Reservation


Upon arrival in Takayama, enjoy the atmosphere of Little Kyoto with its old streets and camps, and Takayama’s gourmet food such as Takayama ramen and Hida beef.

"Little Kyoto" - Takayama

After enjoying Takayama, take a highway bus back to Nagoya.

It takes about 2 hours and 40 minutes from Takayama ( Takayama Nohi Bus Center ) to Nagoya ( Meitetsu Bus Center) by direct bus.

Takayama → Nagoya Highway Bus Online Booking

Reservation recommended:

Takayama 17:30 → Nagoya 20:15
Takayama 19:00 → Nagoya 21:45

Takayama → Nagoya
Fare: 3,400 yen
Time required: approx. 2 hours and 45 minutes

Nohi Bus Center Takayama

Remember to take a break at your hotel after your trip!


Express Bus Online Reservations

Highway bus waiting at Nagoya Station

Shirakawago from Nagoya
 Fare: 3,400 yen to 4,200 yen
 Travel time: ~2 hours and 40 minutes
Shirakawago to Takayama
 Fare: 2,600 yen
 Time required: ~60 min.
Takayama to Nagoya
 Fare: 3,400 yen
 Travel time: ~2 hr. 50 min.


Another day trip from Nagoya is Nara

Nara is the oldest capital city in Japan and is renowned for its many historical legacies. In Nara Park, you’ll be greeted by friendly deer. Beautiful and famous temples like the Great Buddha and the Five-Story Pagoda also create a calm and historic atmosphere. Walking along the old streets, you can also find a lot of stylish cafes and traditional souvenir shops scattered throughout the area. Nara sells a lot of local delicacies such as Nara zuke (pickles) and kakinoha sushi (persimmon leaf sushi).


Meitetsu Bus waiting at Nara Station

Express buses connect Nagoya (Meitetsu Bus Center) and Nara (Kintetsu Nara Station and JR Nara Station) in approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, offering good value and convenience.

Nagoya → Nara Highway Bus Online Reservation


Recommended day trip route from Nagoya (2)
Nara

Nagoya to Nara by Bus

A less known one day trip from Nagoya is Nara, the ancient capital of Japan. By bus it only takes 2 1/2 hours to get to Nara from Nagoya. There are four round-trip express buses that run directly from Nagoya to Nara every day, providing easy and inexpensive access. This makes it easy to enjoy Nara as a day trip.
Places to visit in Nara

  1. World Heritage Sites (cultural, natural, etc.)
    Nara is home to eight World Heritage sites including: Todaiji Temple, Kofukuji Temple, and Kasuga Taisha Shrine. Simply visiting these historically and culturally rich sites truly showcase Nara’s ancient history.
  2. Nara Park
    In Nara Park, you will be greeted by cute deer roaming freely. Interacting with the deer is one of the major attractions of sightseeing in Nara.
  3. Old town
    In Naramachi, you can enjoy the traditional atmosphere of the old town. While strolling around, stop by stylish cafes and traditional souvenir shops.
    A day trip from Nagoya to Nara is a wonderful way to experience history, nature, and healing. We hope you will visit Nara!

Nagoya → Nara Highway Bus Online Reservation


First, head to the Meitetsu Bus Center, located in the Meitetsu Department Store building near Nagoya Station.
The bus bound for Nara departs from the 3rd floor at bus stop 8.

Nagoya (Meitetsu Bus Center, 3rd floor, #8) 7:40 AM

Arrive at Kintetsu Nara Station

at 10:05 (JR Nara Station at 10:15)

Meitetsu bus center bus stop 8

Kintetsu Nara Station

If you are heading for Nara Park, we recommend getting off at Kintetsu Nara Station.

Nara Park is about a 10-minute walk from Kintetsu Nara Station.

Local Nara city bus pass

We also recommend that you purchase a bus pass, which allows you to freely get on and off local buses in Nara City.

Bus Pass Details

The bus pass is available on the opposite side of the road when you get off the express bus at Kintetsu Nara Station.
Available at ” NARAKOTSU BUS INFORMATION “.


Nara Day Trip Recommendation

First time in Nara/ Basic Sightseeing Course (about 4 hours)

  1. Todaiji Temple
    Todaiji Temple, registered as a World Heritage site, is a symbol of Nara.
    Visit the Big Buddha and stroll through the beautiful gardens.
  2. Kofukuji Temple
    Like Todaiji Temple, Kofukuji Temple is a World Heritage Site and is lined with buildings from the Nara period.
    You can feel the history in the still and quiet atmosphere.
  3. Nara Park
    Nara Park is famous as a place where you can spend time with deer.
    Relax and enjoy nature in this spacious park.
  4. Kasuga Taisha Shrine
    Kasuga Taisha Shrine, a World Heritage Site, is a cultural asset of the ancient capital of Nara. Approaching the shrine, you will see old architectural structures and stone monuments scattered throughout the area. The deer fortune is also popular, and an English version is also available.

Wakakusa, Kasuga Taisha Shrine and Todaiji Daibutsuden Course (approx. 7 hours)

  1. Visit Kasuga Taisha, a World Heritage Site
    15 minutes from Kintetsu Nara Station to the main shrine of Kasuga Taisha by bus.
  2. Hike to the summit of Mt.Wakakusa
    It takes about 5 minutes by foot from the main shrine of Kasuga Taisha to get to the base gate of Mt.Wakakusa.
    It is about a 40-minute walk from the foot gate to the summit.
    At the peak of Mt.Wakakusa, you can see a panoramic view of Nara, with its surround temples, shrines, and even mountains in the distance.
    You can also enjoy interacting with cute wild deer.
    *Hours of entry are from 9:00 to 17:00
    *Closed during winter (mid-December to mid-March).
  3. Todaiji Temple
  4. Naramachi (shopping district in Kyoto)
    Visitors can enjoy strolling, shopping, and dining.

Naramachi: Shopping/ A Gourmet Stroll (about 2 to 3 hours)

Naramachi

Naramachi is an area with a traditional townscape in the central part of Nara City. The narrow streets are lined with many historical buildings called machiya. There are also many restaurants and souvenir stores where you can enjoy gourmet food and shopping unique to this area.

Other recommended spots


Bus from Nara back to Nagoya

Commuting Time in Nara
For about 4 hours and 30 minutes

Kintetsu Nara Station, Bus Stop No. 20 Departure at 14:55
(Depart from JR Nara Station, Bus Stop #4 at 14:50)

Arrive at Meitetsu Bus Center (Nagoya) at 17:25

Commuting Time in Nara
Around 9 hours

Kintetsu Nara Station, Bus Stop No. 20 Departure at 19:15
(Depart from JR Nara Station, bus stop #4 at 19:10)

Arrive at Meitetsu Bus Center (Nagoya) at 21:45

Highway Bus Facilities
Restroom, AC power supply, free WiFi

Where to board the train in Nara
Kintetsu Nara Station, Bus Stop No. 20
JR Nara Station, No. 4 bus stop

Nagoya → Nara Highway Bus Online Reservation


< This content was produced in cooperation with Meitetsu Bus Co. >