Experiences & Reviews

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.

Interactive Shirakawago Map


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. >

Things to Know Before Booking Sunset Shibuya Sky Tickets

How to Get Guaranteed Access to Shibuya Sky at Sunset Hour/Sunset Time

Did you know there’s a rooftop observation deck at the top of Shibuya’s tallest high-rise building, Shibuya Scramble Square?

Shibuya at night

Shibuya Sky (SHIBUYA SKY) is directly connected to Shibuya Station about 230 meters above ground.

With the “SKY STAGE” skyscraper rooftop observation deck and the “SKY GALLERY” indoor observation corridor on the 46th floor, Shibuya Sky offers open and vast views from Shibuya skyline. While Shibuya Sky during the day is great in its own sense, sunset time (sunset hour) at dusk and the night time view are most popular!

We recommend that you purchase an online ticket in advance because this Shibuya Sky is a popular spot and it will be crowded. If you can’t secure a sunset ticket, we’ll teach you a loophole below.

※Estimated sunset times at SHIBUYA SKY


Unfortunately, admission tickets for later evenings sell out quickly, and reservations are often sold out months in advance.

This is the booking calendar on the official website as of September 19, 2024.
As you can see, there’s almost no availability after 15:00 until October 17, 2024.

※ Although there is a designated time for entering Shibuya Sky, you can leave at any time as long as it is during business hours.

Most people come all the way to SHIBUYA SKY, but find out that sunset tickets have been sold out. There’s actually a way to fix this problem!


How to secure SHIBUYA SKY tickets at sunset times.

All you have to do is…

Purchase a ticket for the open-top bus “SHIBUYA STREET RIDE” that includes an admission voucher, also known as the “SHIBUYA SKY Set Ticket”! The “SHIBUYA SKY Set Ticket” gives you guaranteed access to SHIBUYA SKY at any time in the day.

By purchasing this set of tickets, you will be able to get into Shibuya Sky even during sold-out times!


First, what is a SHIBUYA SKY set ticket?

The SHIBUYA SKY Set Ticket is an online ticket voucher you are given when you ride SHIBUYA STREET RIDE.

The greatest advantage of this ticket voucher is that it guarantees admission to Shibuya Sky at any time.

When purchasing a regular ticket, you must specify the time of admission. This makes it almost impossible to purchase a ticket during sold-out times. You can use the “SHIBUYA SKY Set Ticket” any time after you get off at SHIBUYA STREET RIDE as long as its the same day. This is perfect if you are trying to secure a sunset ticket for a certain day on your trip, but didn’t have time to book ahead.



However, please note that this pass will only be available until the final entrance time of Shibuya Sky on the day of your trip. Re-entry is also not permitted.

During the daytime, you can take the open-top bus, and in the evening, you can enjoy the city of Shibuya on the Shibuya Sky.

The places you tour by bus are small and spread out around your feet, making for an interesting and memorable experience.

Details of SHIBUYA STREET RIDE × SHIBUYA SKY set ticket


SHIBUYA STREET RIDE

SHIBUYA STREET RIDE has two routes:
・Shibuya Excursion Route
・Shibuya⇔Shinjuku Route(※September 2024~January 2025)

These are two popular routes.

Both routes are designed to take in the sights.

shibuya street ride car
view from shibuya street ride

The bus is an open-top bus specification with no roof on the second floor, allowing visitors to enjoy sightseeing from a perspective they would not normally be able to see.

Seats are equipped with multilingual audio guides and in-train monitors that provide information on each area during the trip. Of course, Japanese is also available.

It also comes with a digital version of a city walking guide to enjoy the streets of Shibuya even after getting off the bus.


SHIBUYA STREET RIDE Ride Experience

I immediately booked a SHIBUYA STREET and RIDE SHIBUYA SKY online set ticket.
This time, I rode on the round-trip route of SHIBUYA on the Shibuya Excursion route.

At the south exit of Shibuya Station is Shibuya Fuclas. There is a bus terminal there on the first floor.

The departure time was 11:25 but I arrived a before 11:00.
I was able to relax in the stylish area waiting area right in front of the bus stop.

shibuya fuclas bus terminal
 shibuya street ride at shibuya fuclas

Before I knew it, a stylish open-top bus entered the boarding area shortly after 11:15.

Next, all you have to do is show the screen of your cell phone to the crew and board the train!

At this time, I received a voucher for admission to Shibuya Sky on the same day.

Now you can enjoy the evening and night views from Shibuya Sky ^^.

shibuya sky set ticket


This time, the route took me from the Scramble Crossing to Harajuku, Omotesando, and other areas around Shibuya.

The colorful seating inside the car will surely be Instagram-worthy if you take pictures!

On the second floor, you can feel the breeze and enjoy the view from a different perspective than usual.

The thrill of passing under an overpass is especially unique to this bus.

 shibuya street ride seats
 shibuya street ride view of national stadium

The bus first departs from Shibuya Fuklas and head towards Harajuku on Meiji Street.

Along the way, you can see Meiji Shrine and Takeshita-dori Avenue from a slightly elevated vantage point. After that we headed towards Sendagaya and Gaienmae.

As we reach Omotesando, we can see the National Stadium, which was the main venue for the Olympics. There were no power lines so you could see the view of the sky really clearly and it felt great!

In Omotesando, you can feel the street trees up close while overlooking the rows of high-end fashion stores.

Finally, I returned to Shibuya for the last time to view the scramble crossing. It is a luxurious feeling to be able to see the scene of many people coming and going from above, up close and personal.

I returned to the bus terminal on the ground floor of the Shibuya Fuklas– the area I departed from around 12:30 p.m.

After a leisurely lunch, I went for a stroll in Shibuya, using the digital version of the city walking guide that was in the pocket of the car!

Don’t forget to check the passcode in the car!
Since the audio is also recorded, wearing earphones is recommended.

 shibuya street ride digital walking guide

It’s evening, and SHIBUYA SKY is located in Shibuya Scramble Square.

With this same-day admission voucher, I went to SHIBUYA SKY, and on the 14th floor of Shibuya Scramble Square I was able to register and enjoy the evening and night views.

“Crossing Lights,” a light show held every 30 minutes after 7:00 p.m. every day, is a unique nighttime experience. The performance is said to change with the seasons.



SHIBUYA STREET RIDE × SHIBUYA SKY Set Ticket Details

couple enjoying shibuya sky at night

SHIBUYA STREET RIDE × SHIBUYA SKY Set Ticket Details


Estimated Sunset Times at SHIBUYA SKY

“Twilight Time” in Shibuya takes place 15 minutes after sunset.

This is the most beautiful time to see Shibuya Sky as day transitions into night. “Twilight Time” can be seen only in this 15 minute time frame.

Sunset times may vary by month. Please use this as a reference.

Sunset Times
(Towards the beginning of the month)
Sunset Times
(Towards the beginning of the month)
January4:40PM~5:10PM~
February5:10PM~5:35PM~
March5:35PM~6:00PM~
April6:00PM~6:25PM~
May6:25PM~6:50PM~
June6:50PM~7:00PM~
July7:00PM~6:45PM~
*Around July and August, the sun sets a bit earlier.
Sunset Times
(Towards the beginning of the month)
Sunset Times
(Towards the beginning of the month)
August6:35PM~6:10PM~
September6:10PM~5:25PM~
October5:25PM~4:45PM~
November4:45PM~4:30PM~
December4:30PM~4:40PM~
*From around December 12th, the sun sets a little later.

Even if tickets are sold out, as long as you have the Shibuya Sky Set Ticket, you can enjoy the beautiful views of SHIBUYA SKY at any time.


Full highway bus between Shinjuku and Kamikochi? Instead, take the bus via Matsumoto

Kamikochi Reopening

Kamikochi reopened again this year (2024).

Now that covid has subsided, a large influx of people have been swarming to Kamikochi as soon as it opens on April 17th. As a result, direct buses from Shinjuku have become difficult to book due to labor regulations for drivers and others starting in April 2024.

We will introduce a second back-up plan for traveling between Shinjuku and Kamikochi. This method is relatively easy to book and inexpensive.


An Overview: Shinjuku to Takayama

In Part 1, we showed you how to take the highway bus from Shinjuku to Takayama and transfer at the Hirayu Bus Terminal [ via Hirayu Bus Terminal (Hirayu Onsen) ], and this time we will show you the backstage procedure for the version via Matsumoto.

You can take a highway bus from Shinjuku Bus Terminal or Hino Bus Station to Matsumoto bus terminal and head for Kamikochi.


Although it is common to use the ” Matsumoto Bus Terminal” and “Matsumoto Station” to connect the highway bus to the Matsumoto Railway Kamikochi Line, here we will use the “Matsumoto Inter-mae Bus Stop” and “Oniwa Station” on the Kamikochi Line to emphasize typa.

This backstage technique can shorten commute time by about 30 minutes.
If you can connect to a train one train earlier, you can also save an hour.

If you are short on money and time, this is a good backup route.

Route

Board the highway bus at the Shinjuku/Hino bus stop.
   ⇕
(Highway Bus / to Matsumoto)
Approx. 190 min. from Shinjuku, 160 min. from Hino
   ⇕
Get off the highway bus at the Matsumoto Interchange bus stop.
   ⇕
( about 550m / 7-8 minutes walk )
   ⇕
Board the train at Oba Station.
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( Matsumoto Railway Kamikochi Line )
  Approx. 25 min.
   ⇕
Get off the train at Niijima Station.
 Board a local bus at the Niijima Bus Terminal
   ⇕
( Local bus bound for Kamikochi )
  Approx. 65 min.
   ⇕
Kamikochi Bus Terminal


Fees (Fares)

It costs about 7,000 yen one way.

The breakdown is
Shinjuku – Matsumoto Highway Bus: 3,300 – 4,000 yen/one way
 Reference 4-pack web coupon tickets
   Basta Shinjuku – Matsumoto 13,000 yen / 4 tickets (3,250 yen / 1 ticket)
   Hino bus stop – Matsumoto 11,400 yen/4 tickets (2,850 yen/1 ticket)
Oniwa – Niijima 590 yen/one way
 (Matsumoto – Niijima 710 yen/one way)
Shinshimadai – Kamikochi Bus Terminal 2,550 yen / one way
 All buses from Kamikochi to Niijimatsuri on the return trip will be operated on a reservation basis from FY2024.

Details & Reservations

The direct bus from Shinjuku to Kamikochi, “Sawayaka Shinshu-go,” has variable fares ranging from 8,000 yen to 16,000 yen.
Daytime 4-row seat: 8,000-12,000 yen (adult one-way)
Daytime flight 3-row seat: 10,000-14,000 yen (adult one-way)

Overnight 4-row seat: 10,000-14,000 yen (adult one-way)
Overnight flights 3-row seat: 12,000 yen – 16,000 yen (adult one-way)
 Fares vary depending on the day of operation.  For details, click here.

The typical fee is 12,000-14,000 yen, which is almost half the price.

In other words, Save more than 10,000 yen round-trip (i.e., more than 10,000 yen savings for a round-trip flight)


We recommend using the “Matsumoto Bus Terminal” and “Matsumoto Station” if you plan to stay the night before or after in Matsumoto, or if you plan to shop or eat at Matsumoto.

If you stay the night before the tour, you can take the “National Park Liner,” a direct bus from Matsumoto to Kamikochi that departs from the Matsumoto Bus Terminal at 5:30 am and arrives at the Kamikochi Bus Terminal at 7:05 am, allowing you to enjoy Kamikochi in the early morning.
>> >> Details of National Park Liner

>> >> Recommended for the first night or the second night! Hotels near Matsumoto Bus Terminal


Express Bus and Rail Transfers

Express buses and trains generally use the “Matsumoto Bus Terminal” and “Matsumoto Station” for connections. The bus terminal and train station are a short 5-minute walk away.

However, as shown in the map below, it is necessary to make a round trip between the Matsumoto Interchange and Matsumoto Station, resulting in waste. Therefore, if you wish to go directly from Tokyo (Shinjuku) to Kamikochi or from Kamikochi directly to Tokyo (Shinjuku), we recommend that you transfer at the “Matsumoto Inter-mae Bus Stop” and “Oba Station” on the Matsumoto Railway Kamikochi Line.

The bus stop in front of the Matsumoto Interchange on the return trip (toward Shinjuku) has a waiting room that was renovated in June 2019 and is equipped with air conditioning, restrooms, and 9 charging stations (outlets, USB) for cell phones and other devices.

The round-trip fare via Matsumoto is more than 10,000 yen less than the direct bus service from Shinjuku to Kamikochi.
We also recommend that you spend the night before or after your stay in Matsumoto with the money you save. In this case, please use “Matsumoto Bus Terminal” and “Matsumoto Station”.

Matsumoto Interchange Bus Stop ⇔ Kamikochi Line Oba Station

If are routing to Oba Station using Google Maps, you will be directed to take the long way around as shown in the map below.

Google maps routes you this way because there is no pedestrian crossing at Horimae, the intersection just after getting off the bus.
The shortest way is to get to this stop is to follow the red arrow in the photo below. You cannot cross Route 158.


There is an underground promenade that does not appear on Google Maps that can be crossed safely and easily.

The underground promenade was well maintained and cleaned, and was relatively bright and safe.



From Oniwa Station, take the Kamikochi Line bound for Niijima-eki and arrive at the last stop, Niijima-eki, in about 25 minutes.
Niijima Station is the closest train station to Kamikochi, and from here it is a 65-minute bus ride to the Kamikochi Bus Terminal.
When boarding the Matsumoto Railway Kamikochi Line, please pick up a numbered ticket at the entrance. It will be used when you get off the train.
Matsumoto Railway Kamikochi Line does not accept IC cards such as Suica. Please have coins ready.

Matsumoto Railway Kamikochi Line “Oba Station” ⇒ “Matsumoto Interchange-mae Bus Stop

Shinjuku – Matsumoto Highway Bus Reservation

Highwaybus.com allows you to change/cancel reservations and select seats for highway buses.

There are approximately 24 round trips/day by express bus from Matsumoto to Shinjuku ↔ Matsumoto.
For reservations
↓↓↓↓
Highwaybus.com

Futaba service area by taking a break on the way

Recommended Hotels near Matsumoto Bus Terminal

These are recommended accommodations that our staff actually stayed at and found to be highly cost-effective.

Tabino Hotel lit Matsumoto
A modern, stylish budget hotel specializing in overnight stays, located directly near the Matsumoto bus terminal.

Some benefits:

  • Drink service for early check-in
  • Tea and rice for the evening meal service
  • Large baths modeled after Shirakotsu Onsen hot springs
  • Children (elementary schoolers and younger) can stay for FREE!

Hotel M Matsumoto
Located right in front of the Matsumoto Bus Terminal on the 6th floor of a building that also houses Maruzen Bookstore and Daiso, this capsule and business hotel offers the best value for money.

Some benefits:

  • Bright and clean, its appealing for women solo-travelers
  • Lounge is stocked with comic books
  • Large public bath

Iroha Grand Hotel Matsumoto Ekimae
It is about 400m, or 5 minutes away from the Matsumoto bus terminal.

Some benefits:

  • Stylish and elaborate/ often used for weddings
  • Recommended for girls trips, etc.

Other accommodations near Matsumoto Station and Matsumoto Bus Terminal