Highway bus
Shirakawago Luggage Storage / Coin Locker Info
Topic: Shirakawago coin locker price, Shirakawago bus terminal Publish Date: 12/09/2024
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: | Price | Amount | Size (LxWxH) |
| Large Locker | 1000 yen | 9 | 77cm x 49cm x 116cm |
| Small Locker | 500 yen | 9 | 77cm x 49cm x 62cm |
| Reception | ~500 yen (depending on size) | Up to 100 | Any |
Amount of Lockers
Total lockers: 18
Large lockers: 9 (77cm x 49cm x 116cm)
Small lockers: 9 (77cm x 49cm x 62cm)
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
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.
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:
- 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. - 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. - 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. - 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. - 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
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 delicious 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.
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.
Around 8:40 AM
Take a 10-minute break at the Hirugano service area.
Around 10:32 AM
Arrive at 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.
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
- 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. - 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. - 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
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.
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
Remember to take a break at your hotel after your trip!
Express Bus Online Reservations
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).
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.
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
- 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. - 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. - 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)
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.
We also recommend that you purchase a bus pass, which allows you to freely get on and off local buses in Nara City.
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)
- 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. - 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. - Nara Park
Nara Park is famous as a place where you can spend time with deer.
Relax and enjoy nature in this spacious park. - 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)
- Visit Kasuga Taisha, a World Heritage Site
15 minutes from Kintetsu Nara Station to the main shrine of Kasuga Taisha by bus. - 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). - Todaiji Temple
- Naramachi (shopping district in Kyoto)
Visitors can enjoy strolling, shopping, and dining.
Naramachi: Shopping/ A Gourmet Stroll (about 2 to 3 hours)
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.
- A temple hall with an enshrined statue of Kobo Daishi (at Shingon temple)
They are famous for their high-speed rice cake pounding in the store, and their freshly made mugwort rice cakes are not only delicious but also very popular.
Google Map - Kuki Cake.
This cozy cafe is popular for its soft cakes and pastries that contain lots of Nara’s rich natural air.
Google Map
Other recommended spots
- Nara Goldfish Museum
It is a photogenic art space with the theme of Nara x goldfish x art.
Google Map - YAMATO Craft Beer Table
This is a craft beer store in Nara. More than 8 to 10 kinds of craft beers are always available.
Google Map - Sakura Burger
This is an original hamburger store with delicious smoked homemade bacon.
Google Map
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. >
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.
⇕
( 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.
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
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
Is the discounted bus between Shinjuku and Kamikochi always full? A cheaper solution exists!
Updated April 3, 2024 (updated to 2024 rates)
1. [Hirayu Bus Terminal (Hirayu Onsen) Route]
How to take a highway bus from Basta Shinjuku to Hida Takayama and transfer at Hirayu Bus Terminal next to Kamikochi.
2. via Matsumoto
Take a highway bus from Basta Shinjuku to Matsumoto Bus Terminal and transfer at the Matsumoto Inter-mae bus stop.
First, let’s look at the Hirayu route.
Although it takes about 30 minutes longer than the direct bus from Shinjuku to Kamikochi, the round-trip fare is more than 10,000 yen less than the direct bus from Shinjuku to Kamikochi.
In addition, you can enjoy Okuhida Onsenkyo (hot spring resort) such as Hirayu Onsen.
Click here for the version via Matsumoto via Matsumoto Interchange bus stop and Matsumoto Railway Kamikochi Line.
Kamikochi is always restricted to private cars and cannot be entered by private cars.
The only ways to enter Kamikochi are by bus, licensed cab, on foot, or by bicycle.
Therefore, the highway bus is by far the most convenient way to get to Kamikochi from Tokyo!
However, since highway buses are convenient, they are popular and crowded, making the price somewhat more expensive.
Save a little money! Here is a guide to a backstage technique that makes it easier to make reservations.
General directions from Tokyo area to Kamikochi
■ By train
Approx. 9,900 yen (one-way for adults)
Shinjuku Station
｜
(JR Express Azusa)
about 2 hours and 40 minutes
｜
Matsumoto Station
｜
(Matsumoto Electric Railway Kamikochi Line )
about 30 min.
Niijima Station
｜
(local bus )
about 1 hour 15 minutes
Kamikochi Bus Terminal
■ For express buses ■
8,000 – 16,000 yen (adult one-way)
Main price range 12,000 – 14,000 yen
Basta Shinjuku / Shibuya Bus Terminal (Mark City) / Yaesu South Exit of JR Tokyo Station
｜
(Express Bus, Sawayaka Shinshu-go )
about 4 hours 30 min~5 hours
｜
Kamikochi Bus Terminal
Buses from Shinjuku are especially convenient and numerous.
However, highway buses from Shinjuku (Basta Shinjuku) to Kamikochi are very popular, so reservations are difficult to obtain and the fares are a bit expensive.
So, here is a backdoorhighway bus routethat is relatively inexpensive and easy to book,
Shinjuku (Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal)
|
(Highway Bus to Hida Takayama )
about 4 hours and 40 minutes
｜
Hirayu Bus Terminal
｜
( local bus )
about 25 min.
｜
Kamikochi Bus Terminal
Express bus routes are available.
The fare is approximately 6,500 yen (one-way for adults).
Hirayu Bus Terminal is the gateway toKamikochi, Mt. Norikura, and Shin Hotaka Ro on the Gifu Prefecture (Takayama City) side.
Hirayu Bus Terminal is also the stop for highway buses from Basta Shinjuku to Takayama, with 5 to 7 round trips being made daily.
There is also a shuttle bus service (high frequency) between Hirayu Bus Terminal and Kamikochi Bus Terminal.
>>Hirayu Bus Terminal ⇔ Kamikochi Bus Terminal Details
If you head to Kamikochi via this Hirayu bus terminal, you can save more than 10,000 yen round trip.
Location of Kamikochi and its surroundings
If you are going to Kamikochi by car:
On the Matsumoto City side in Nagano Prefecture, park at Sawatari Parking Lot, and on the Takayama City side in Gifu Prefecture, park at Akandana Parking Lot (Hirayu Onsen) and transfer to a bus for a 20-30 minute ride.
If you are going to Kamikochi, going via Hirayu Bus Terminal is not only economical but also healing.
The reason…
(1) Save more than 10,000 yen round trip via Hirayu!
There is a direct highway bus service from Shinjuku (Basta Shinjuku) to Kamikochi.
The trip takes about 4 hours and 30 minutes, and the fare ranges from 12,000 to 16,000 yen per adult one-way.
There are also 4 to 5 round-trip highway buses from Shinjuku to the Hirayu Bus Terminal, located next to Kamikochi,every day. The trip takes about 4 hours and 30 minutes and costs about 5,500 yen to 6,500 yen per adult one-way.
Buses from Hirayu Bus Terminal to Kamikochi run every 30 minutes, taking 20-25 minutes, and cost 1,500 yen one way or 2,800 yen round trip.
- Shinjuku ⇔ Kamikochi
【By direct round-trip bus】About 26,000 yen - Shinjuku⇔Hirayu⇔Kamikochi
[Round trip, via Hirayu] Approx. 14,200 yen, a savings of over 10,000 yen - Shinjuku→Hirayu→Kamikochi→Shinjuku
[If you take a direct one-way bus, one way via Hirayu] about 21,000 yen and save about 5,000 yen.
Another trick is to take a highway bus from Shinjuku to Matsumoto, get off in front of the Matsumoto Interchange, and transfer to the Matsumoto Railway Kamikochi Line from Oniwa Station . This is also very economical and convenient. Click here for more details…
(2) Healing in a famous hot spring. So what kind of place is Hirayu Onsen?
This is the gateway to Okuhida Onsenkyo.
It is the largest hot spring resort near Kamikochi, with about 30 accommodations of various sizes. The town spreads out around Hirayu Bus Terminal, and most of the hot spring resort is within walking distance. In addition to lodging facilities, there are also a variety of day-trip hot spring facilities and restaurants.
The hot spring water is abundant and hot. There are about 40 sources, gushing about 13,000 liters per minute of hot spring water at a high temperature of about 90°C.
Hirayu Onsen Tourism Association
Okuhida Onsenkyo Tourism Association
Recommended Accommodations in Hirayu Onsen
Tsuyu-kusa
A ryokan with a completely private hot spring for overnight stays with no meals. Onsen ryokan located a 3-minute walk from Hirayu bus terminal.
Self check-in/check-out, so late arrivals and early morning departures are OK!
A popular, small, cost-effective onsen ryokan. Please make reservations as early as possible!
>>> Search availability, check rates, and make reservations
Hirayu-kan
This onsen ryokan is a 3-minute walk from the Hirayu bus terminal and has a full range of onsen (hot spring) facilities. The ryokan has a particularly wonderful open-air bath. The ryokan offers a variety of plans, including overnight stays with no meal and one-night breakfast plans. There is also a convenience store inside the inn, which is recommended for consecutive nights or mid- to long-term stays.
>>> Search availability, check rates, and make reservations
Shinjuku – Kamikochi (Sawayaka Shinshu-go)
Adults 10,000 yen – 16,000 yen
Children 5,000 yen – 8,000 yen
Details, timetable and reservations
Shinjuku – Hirayu Bus Terminal (to Hida Takayama)
Adults 5,800 yen – 6,200 yen
Children 2,900 yen – 3,100 yen
Details, timetable, and reservations
Hirayu Bus Terminal – Kamikochi Bus Terminal
Adults 1,500 yen one way, 2,800 yen round trip
Children 750 yen one way, 1,400 yen round trip
Details/Timetable
Keio Bus LINE official account opened!
Kamikochi Recommended Model Course
*The model course below is based on the summer schedule.
Please note that some buses may operate seasonally. Please check the timetable, etc. in advance.
1. hiking & cyclingAn active experience in the great outdoors!
Day 1
- Departure from Shinjuku 8:15→(Shakado PA, Suwako SA) → Arrival at Hirayu 12:55
- Hirayu Onsen 13:00-14:00Lunch
- Hirayu Exploration Path, Hirayu Great Falls, etc. Hiking 14:00-16:30
- Hirayu Onsen check-in around 16:30 (overnight stay)
2nd day
- Cycling to Kamikochi ( rent a bike at OKUHIDA BASE )
- Hirayu 8:00→(Awa Pass by e-bike) → Kamikochi Bus Terminal 11:00
- Kamikochi (lunch and walking)
- Kamikochi 13:00→(Awa Pass by e-bike) →Hirayu 15:00
- Hirayu Bus Terminal 16:05→(Suwako SA, Shakado PA, etc.) →Arrive Shinjuku 20:45
2. enjoy hot springs and Kamikochi
Day 1
- Departure from Shinjuku 8:15→(Shakado PA, Suwako SA) → Arrival at Hirayu 12:55
- Hirayu Onsen 13:00-14:00Lunch
- Hirayu Exploration Path, Hirayu Great Falls, etc. Hiking 14:00-16:30
- Hirayu Onsen check-in around 16:30 (overnight stay)
2nd day
- Hirayu Bus Terminal 8:00→(Awa Tunnel) → Kamikochi Bus Terminal 8:25
- Kamikochi (walking/lunch)
- Depart from Kamikochi Bus Terminal at 15:00 → (Suwako SA, Dangozaka SA) → Arrive at Shinjuku at 19:47
3. enjoy the spectacular ropeway and Kamikochi
Day 1
- Departure from Shinjuku 7:05 → (Shakado PA, Suwako SA) → Hirayu 11:55
- Hirayu Onsen Lunch
- Hirayu Bus Terminal 12:40→arrive at Shin Hotaka Ropeway 13:36 (ropeway ride and walk)
- Shin Hotaka Ropeway 15:55 arrival→Hirayu Bus Terminal 17:31 arrival
- Hirayu Onsen check-in around 18:00 (overnight stay)
2nd day
- Hirayu Bus Terminal 8:00→(Awa Tunnel) → Kamikochi Bus Terminal 8:25
- Kamikochi (walking/lunch)
- Depart from Kamikochi Bus Terminal at 15:00 → (Suwako SA, Dangozaka SA) → Arrive at Shinjuku at 19:47
4. trekking to enjoy the starry sky, sea of clouds & Kamikochi at a mountain lodge at 2500m altitude!
Day 1
- Departure from Shinjuku 10:25p.m. → (overnight stay in car)
2nd day
- →Arrive at Kamikochi Bus Terminal at 5:20
- Kamikochi (breakfast and walking)
- Kamikochi 8:30→(trekking)→arrive at Nishiho Villa 13:00
- Lunch and overnight stay at Nishiho Villa
3rd day
- Nishiho Sanso 7:00→(trekking) → Nishihomaruyama 7:30→(trekking) → Arrive at Nishiho Dokotoge 10:00
- Departure from Nishiho Dokubetsu at 10:30→(trekking)→arrival at Nishihomaruyama at 11:30→(trekking)→arrival at Nishiho Sanso at 12:00
- Nishiho Villa Lunch
- Nishiho Villa 13:00→(trekking)→Nishihotaka-guchi station 14:45→(ropeway)→Shinhotaka Onsen station 15:10
- Shin Hotaka Ropeway 15:55→(Takayama-bound local bus) → Arrival at Hirayu Bus Terminal 16:28
- Hirayu Forest Bathing
- Hirayu Bus Terminal 18:05→(Suwako SA, Shakado PA, etc.) →Arrive Shinjuku 22:45
5. enjoy the spectacular view of Norikura Tatamidaira at an elevation of 2,702 meters and Kamikochi!
Day 1
- Departure from Shinjuku 10:25p.m. → (overnight stay in car)
2nd day
- →Arrive at Kamikochi Bus Terminal at 5:20
- Kamikochi (breakfast, walk, lunch)
- Depart from Kamikochi Bus Terminal at 15:00 → (Awa Tunnel) → Arrive at Hirayu Bus Terminal at 15:25
- Check-in at Hirayu Onsen around 16:00
3rd day
- Hirayu Bus Terminal 8:00→(Norikura Skyline) -> Norikura Tatamidaira 9:00 arrival
- Norikura Tatamidaira (walk and lunch)
- Kamikochi Bus Terminal 14:00→(Norikura Skyline) →Hirayu Bus Terminal 15:00
- Hirayu Bus Terminal 16:05→(Suwako SA, Shakado PA) →Arrive at Shinjuku 20:45
*You can also enjoy cycling between Hirayu and Norikura-dake (Tatamidaira) on a rental e-bike!
*The above model course is based on the summer schedule.
Please note that some buses may operate seasonally. Please check the timetable in advance.
Shinjuku – Kamikochi (Sawayaka Shinshu-go)
Adults 10,000 yen – 16,000 yen Children 5,000 yen – 8,000 yen
Details, timetable, and reservations
Shinjuku – Hirayu Bus Terminal (to Hida Takayama)
Adults 5,800 yen – 6,200 yen Children 2,900 yen – 3,100 yen
Details, Timetable, Reservations
Hirayu Bus Terminal – Kamikochi Bus Terminal
Adults 1,500 yen one way, 2,800 yen round trip
Children 750 yen one way, 1,400 yen round trip
Details/Timetable
Hirayu Onsen Recommended Accommodations
Tsuyu-kusa
A ryokan with a completely private hot spring for overnight stays with no meals. Onsen ryokan located a 3-minute walk from Hirayu bus terminal.
Self check-in/check-out, so late arrivals and early morning departures are OK!
A popular, small, cost-effective onsen ryokan. Please make reservations as early as possible!
>>> Search availability, check rates, and make reservations
Hirayu-kan
This onsen ryokan is a 3-minute walk from the Hirayu bus terminal and has a full range of onsen (hot spring) facilities. The ryokan has a particularly wonderful open-air bath. The ryokan offers a variety of plans, including overnight stays with no meal and one-night breakfast plans. There is also a convenience store inside the inn, which is recommended for consecutive nights or mid- to long-term stays.
>>> Search availability, check rates, and make reservations
