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  • 2025.10.07

Tokyo to Hakuba Travel Options 2025-2026

The ski season in Hakuba this year is from Dec 2025 ~ April 2026. There are three ways to reach Hakuba from Tokyo this winter season: express train, shinkansen, and highway bus. Most transportation requires you to make a transfer and take a shuttle bus to the ski grounds around Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal. In the winter (around December), these shuttle buses will require a reservation especially during busy seasons, so please plan ahead.

1. Train (using the Shinkansen or Azusa Express)
2. Direct bus
3. Bus (with a transfer)

Comparison Chart

The closest station to the ski slopes is Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal. If you get off at Hakuba Station, you can either walk 35~40 minutes or take the shuttle bus to the slopes. The following times include getting to Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal.

Means of TransportationTime RequiredNumber of TransfersTotal CostLuggage StorageBoarding Area
Shinkansen

Online Reservation		3hrs 1 times11,640 yenLimitedTokyo Station
Platform 20 & 23 (headed for Nagano Station)
Azusa Limited Express
(once a day)
Online Reservation		3hrs 35mins 1 time8,410 yenLimited Shinjuku Station
Platform 9 & 10
(direct train to Hakuba St. is at 8AM only)
Azusa Express
Online Reservation		4hrs ~ 4hrs 20mins3 times8,150 yenLimitedShinjuku Station
Platform 9 & 10
(headed for Matsumoto Station)
Direct Highway Bus

Online Reservation		5hrs 13mins0 times5,800 yen ~ 7,000 yenGuaranteedShinjuku Bus Terminal (4th floor)
Highway bus
Online Reservation		5 hours1 times7,700 yen ~ 8,600 yenGuaranteedShinjuku Bus Terminal (4th floor)
or
Ikebukuro Station East Exit

Boarding points for the shuttle bus to Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal:
• Nagano Station → Hakuba Happo Station: boarding area (Bus stop #26 at the East Exit)
• Matsumoto Station → Hakuba Happo Station: TBA Mid-November

Different Transportation from Tokyo to Hakuba

■Shinkansen

The fastest way to reach Hakuba is by boarding the Hokuriku Shinkansen at Tokyo Station and transferring at Nagano Station. Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal is the closest station to the slopes, so a transfer from Nagano Station via a shuttle bus is necessary. Please note that the shuttle bus will require reservations in the winter which can be made: here

① Tokyo Station (Hokuriku Shinkansen) → Nagano Station → (Shuttle bus) → Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal
Total: 8140 yen + 3500 yen (shuttle bus to Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal)
Total time: 3hrs
Transfers: 1

Hakuba Shinkansen Reservation

■Train

The Azusa Limited Express (which departs only once a day) and the Azusa Express depart at Shinjuku Station and stops at Matsumoto Station. From Matsumoto Station, take the JR Oito Line to Hakuba Station and then a local bus to Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal. The JR Oita Line runs once an hour. Alternatively there is a shuttle bus run by Alpico Group from the slopes, but times are TBD until mid November.


①Shinjuku Station (Azusa Express) → Matsumoto Station → (JR Oito Line) → Hakuba Station → (Local Bus) → Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal
Total: 7790 yen + 360 yen (shuttle bus to Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal)
Total time: 4hrs ~ 4hrs 20 mins
Transfers: 3

Azusa Express Online Reservation

②Shinjuku Station (Limited Express Azusa | One departure a day) → Hakuba Station → (Local Bus) → Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal
Total: 8050 yen + 360 yen (shuttle bus to Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal)
Total time: 3hrs 35mins
Transfers: 1

*The Limited Express Azusa departs at 8AM daily and arrives at Hakuba Station at 11:40AM.

Limited Azusa Express Online Reservation

■Direct Bus

The direct highway bus is a cheaper and more convenient option compared to the Azusa train and Shinkansen. Since it’s a direct bus, there are no transfers making the total arrival time potentially faster than the Azusa train if you factor in transferring times. It is also 1,000~3,000 yen cheaper and includes spacious luggage storage for your ski gear.
.
① Shinjuku Bus Terminal → (Highway bus) → Shimano Omachi Station / Hakuba Goryu / Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal
Total: 5,800 yen ~ 7,000 yen (depending on high season)
Total time: 5hrs 13mins
Transfers: 0

Bus Reservations

■Highway Bus

The regular highway bus requires one transfer (for the shuttle bus to the slopes) and is 40 minutes slower than taking the Azusa Express train, but requires two less transfers. It can also be up to 1,000 yen cheaper depending on the season. You can board from either the Shinjuku Bus Terminal or Ikebukuro Station.

① Shinjuku Bus Terminal → (Highway bus) → Nagano Station → (Shuttle Bus) → Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal
Total: 4,200 yen ~ 5,100 yen (depending on high season) + 3500 yen (shuttle bus to Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal)
Total time: 5 hours
Transfers: 1

Bus Reservations

②Ikebukuro Station → (Highway bus) → Nagano Station → (Shuttle Bus) →Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal
Total: 4,200 yen ~ 5,100 yen (depending on high season) + 3500 yen (shuttle bus to Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal)
Total time: 5 hours
Transfers: 1

Bus Reservations

Where to board the highway bus:

Highway buses depart from Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal (Busta Shinjuku), located directly across Shinjuku Station’s South Exit on the 4th floor. Tickets can be purchased at the ticket window or online in advance. However, we highly recommend buying the tickets in advance online.

Address: 5 Chome 24-55 Sendagaya, Shibuya, Tokyo 151-0051, Japan
Opening hours: 6:30 AM ~ 11PM
Waiting room opening hours: 3:30 AM ~ 1 AM (the next day)
Official Website

Direct Bus Reservation
Highway Bus Reservations

Azusa Express Train Additional Information

  • The Limited Express Azusa direct train runs once a day at 8 AM
  • The storage on the Azusa is similar to the shinkansen, and is not always guaranteed
  • Luggage storage is on cars: 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 10, and 12
  • Car 9 is a Green car and requires a special ticket, so do not place your luggage here unless you have a reserved seat
  • Compared to the shinkansen, the Azusa Express train can be a bit shaky, so we recommend the shinkansen or bus for motion sick passengers.


Official website

Direct Night Bus Services

Starting early December, all types of buses increase their frequency during high season. Amongst them is the direct night bus which departs at Shinjuku Bus Terminal around 11PM and arrives in Hakuba around 5AM.

Official website

Other Tips/Advice

The easiest and cheapest way to get to Hakuba is via direct bus due to its guaranteed storage and direct drop-off by the slopes. When it comes to transfers, there may be long lines, so budget to spend extra time waiting. If you are transferring to Hakuba from Nagano or Matsumoto Station, around December shuttle buses to Happo Hakuba Station are necessary and will require a reservation.

Shuttle buses from Hakuba Station to Happo Hakuba Station runs once or twice an hour. If you hold the Hakuba Valley Day Pass, you can ride the shuttle bus an unlimited amount of times between different slopes.

Hakuba Happo Station Shuttle Timetables
-Check here for the official shuttle times between Happo Hakuba Station and Nagano Station.
-Check here for the official shuttle times between Happo Hakuba Station and Matsumoto Station.


  • 2025.08.04

How to ride the bus from Tokyo to Kawaguchiko


Kawaguchiko is a popular destination with quaint cafes, hot springs, and views of the beautiful lake surrounded by Mt.Fuji’s backdrop. The area is home to iconic photo spots such as Oishi Park, Mt. Fuji Ropeway, and the “Mt.Fuji Lawson”. If you would like to reach the red pagoda, we recommend getting off at Fujisan Station, and if you’re looking to hike Mt.Fuji, Mt.Fuji 5th Station.

Direct access to Kawaguchiko & Mt.Fuji by Bus

Going by bus is the simplest way to go to Kawaguchiko, especially if you have luggage or want to guarantee yourself a seat. We recommend making a bus reservation in advance as buses fill almost instantaneously if not prepared ahead of time.

Buses departing every 10 minutes from Shinjuku

At Shinjuku Bus Station, buses depart frequently (every 10 minutes) especially during the morning hours. This makes it easy to board a bus if you’re uncertain on time. While some bus terminals have ticket stands in person, its safer to book online especially during peak seasons and during earlier times. Tickets can be booked to Kawaguchiko: here

Bus Reservation Website


For bus reservations, trip ideas, and exclusive discounted tickets to Kawaguchiko or other destinations in Japan (including Kamikochi, Takayama, Kyoto, and more), you can check the website highway-buses.jp

Mt.Fuji Hotel Reservation Website


If you’re looking for a hotel near Kawaguchiko Station or Kawaguchiko Lake, Mt.Fuji Hotels lists all accommodations in the Mt.Fuji area along with information about climbing Mt.Fuji, an area guide, and access information.

Table of Contents:
1. Tokyo Area (Shinjuku, Shibuya, Ikebukuro, Tokyo Station)
2. Tokyo Area (Haneda Airport, Shinagawa Station)
3. Kanagawa Area
4. Shizuoka Area
5. Saitama Area
6. What to do in the area

Tokyo Area

1. Shinjuku Line (Shinjuku Bus Terminal)


Boarding place: Shinjuku Bus Terminal (BASTA) / Google maps: here

Boarding times: 6:55, 7:15, 7:25, 7:45, 8:05, 8:15, 8:25, 8:35, 8:45, 8:55, 9:15, 9:25, 9:45, 10:05, 10:15, 10;25, 10:35, 10:45, 11:15, 11:25, 11:45, 12:05, 12:15, 12:35, 12:45, 1:15, 2:15, 2:45, 3:15, 4:15, 5:15, 6:15, 7:16, 8:15, 9:15, 10:15

This is the simplest and shortest route to Mt.Fuji in Tokyo with buses coming every 10 minutes in the morning and once an hour after 3 PM. This bus stops at Kawaguchiko Station, Fujisan Station, or Mt.Fuji 5th Station and takes around 2 hours. The Shinjuku Line is located in Shinjuku BASTA, a large three storied bus terminal located directly in front of Shinjuku Station.

Book a seat

2. Shibuya Line (Shibuya Mark City)


Boarding place: Shibuya Mark City 5th Floor / Google maps: here

Boarding times: 6:05, 6;45, 7:30, 8:00, 8:30, 10:30, 1:30, 3:00, 5:00

This line can also take you to Fuji-Q Highland, a popular amusement park with views of Mt.Fuji, or Gotemba Premium Outlet, a massive outlet shopping complex overlooking Mt.Fuji. This route takes around 2 1/2 hours and the bus terminal is located within Shibuya Mark City Mall next to Shibuya Station.

Book a seat

Escape the heat in Tokyo!

If you’re looking for some places to cool down and to kill time in Tokyo, there are plenty of refreshing spaces around Shibuya. Plus–cooler climates like Kamikochi and Kusatsu can be reached by bus directly from Shibuya!

Read more

3. Ikebukuro Line


Boarding place: Ikebukuro Station East Exit / Google maps: here

Boarding times: 7:10, 11:20

Two buses depart from Ikebukuro Station in the early morning and early afternoon. This bus takes approximately 2 hours to reach Kawaguchiko Station and also stops at Fuji-Q Highland and Fujisan Station.

Book a seat

4. Tokyo Station Line


Boarding place: Tokyo Station Yaesu South Exit / Google maps: here

Boarding times: 6:20, 6:50, 7:20, 7:40, 8:10, 8:40, 9:20, 9:50, 10:20

This bus also stops at Fuji-Q Highland, Fujisan Station, and several hotels. It takes around 2 hours to reach Kawaguchiko Station. After 10:20 AM, around once an hour from 11:20 to 6:20 PM. In the afternoon, the bus boarding location changes to the first floor of the Tokyo Station Tekko Building: here.

Book a seat

5. Shinagawa Station Line


Boarding place: Shinagawa Railway Station Konan Exit / Google maps: here

Boarding times: 3:35 PM

This bus is the same bus that runs through Haneda Airport. In total the journey takes around 2 hours. While there is only one bus time available at the moment, the bus also stops at Fuji-Q Highland, Kawaguchiko Station, and Mt.Fuji Station.

Book a seat

6. Haneda Airport Line


Boarding place: Haneda Airport Terminal 1,2,3 / Google maps: here

Boarding times: 2;40 PM (Terminal 1, platform 7), 2:50 (Terminal 2, platform 14), 2;55 (Terminal 1, platform 13)

The bus that runs through Haneda Airport picks you up directly at the terminal gate, taking you to Kawaguchiko in around 3 hours. This bus also stops through Shinagawa Station, Fuji-Q Highland, and Mt.Fuji Station. Only one bus currently runs through the airport, stopping at each terminal.

Book a seat

Kanagawa Area

7. Kanawaga Line (Hiyoshi Station)


Boarding place: Hiyoshi Station East Exit / Google maps: here

Boarding times: 6:40 AM, 8:10 AM

If you’re in the Kanagawa/ Yokohama Area, a bus running to Gotemba Premium Outlets, Mt.Fuji Lake, Fuji-Q Highland, Kawaguchiko Station, and Mt.Fuji 5th Station stops at Hiyoshi Station. This bus is operated by Tokyu Bus and takes around 3 hours and 10 minutes. Currently there are only two buses running.

Book a seat

Shizuoka Area

8. Shizuoka Line (Mishima Station)


Boarding place: Mishima Station South Exit (Platform 2) / Google maps: here

Boarding times: 7:20, 8:20, 9:20, 10:20, 11:20, 12:20, 12:30, 1:20, 1:50, 2:20, 3:20, 4:20, 5:20

The Express Liner departs from Mishima Station to Kawaguchiko Station around once an hour. The bus only takes an 1 1/2 hours to reach Kawaguchiko Station and also stops at Mt.Fuji Yamanakako, and Fuji-Q Highland. This line is quite popular and fills up quickly, so we recommend you make a reservation far in advance.

Book a seat

Saitama Area

9. Omiya Station


Boarding place: Omiya Station West Exit / Google maps: here

Boarding times: 6:25 AM

This is the only bus that takes you directly to Kawaguchiko from Saitama Prefecture and takes around 2hr 40 mins. The next closest station to reach Kawaguchiko from Saitama Prefecture is Shinjuku Station, with buses departing every 10 minutes before noon.

Book a seat

What to do around Kawaguchiko

■ Chureito Pagoda


Fujisan Station is the closest stop to Chureito Pagoda. From Fujisan Station, you can also get to Oshino Hakkai, a mini traditional Japanese village with plenty of foods, souvenir shopping, and stunning views of Mt.Fuji. The town screams old Japan, especially with the iconic image of Mt.Fuji in the background.

■ Fuji Q Highland


Fuji Q Highland is a thrilling amusement park with intense roller coasters overlooking Mt.Fuji, enjoyable even for adults. The amusement park is one of the most iconic parks in Japan as it holds one of the records for one of the highest roller coasters in the world. In addition to the rollercoasters are family themed zones and plenty of attractions such as the infamous haunted house. Most highway buses make a stop at this park.

■ Fuji Motosuko Resort


From mid-April to late May, around 500,000~800,000 Shibazakura bloom at Fuji Motosuko Resort. During this time, the Fuji Shibazakura Festival is held. Climates are cool and the trees and flowers are freshly bloomed during this time, making it an iconic spot for pictures. In August until October, zinnias and salvia flowers bloom during the Rainbow Flower Festival, creating another great opportunity for photos with the Mt.Fuji backdrop.

View more info here




  • 2025.07.24

Cooling Getaways Around Shibuya & Tokyo Enjoyable Even in Summer

How to survive Japanese summer

In cities where a lot of walking is involved, it is essential to keep hydrated with electrolytes and take long rests in between sightseeing. The secret to surviving Tokyo in the summer is knowing the right places to rest around the city. In the summer, most Japanese locals also tend to go to cooler areas near more nature, as the higher elevation, water, and trees makes the temperature drop significantly.

Summer escapes around Shibuya, Tokyo

Even during Tokyo’s sweltering summer months, there are plenty of enjoyable ways to stay cool. In neighborhoods like Shibuya, Harajuku, and Ebisu, you can find countless of rest spots and indoor attractions perfect for taking a break between shopping and café hopping. For an easy escape from the city heat, there are also express buses conveniently departing from Shibuya which can whisk you away to cooler destinations just outside of Tokyo.

For areas up to 20℉ cooler…

If you find yourself wanting to take a break from the hot city, there are several buses conveniently departing from Shibuya to cooler regions outside of Tokyo, making for a great day trip. Often these places are 5-10℃ (10-20℉) cooler than Tokyo city proper and are surrounded by stunning greenery and fresh cool air.


Cooler mountainous areas such as: Karuizawa, Kusatsu Onsen, and Kamikochi all take just one bus ride in a comfortable, air conditioned, transfer free bus from the bus terminal in Shibuya Mark City (5F). For reservations and information on how to get to the bus terminal check: here

Table of Contents:

1. Ebisu Area Rest Spots
2. Harajuku Area Rest Spots
3. Shibuya Area Rest Spots
4. Karuizawa, Kusatsu, Kamikochi
5. How to take the bus to cooler areas

1. Ebisu Sky Lounge 38F (Ebisu)


The Ebisu Sky Lounge is on the 38th floor of the Yebisu Garden Place Tower. This free to enter observation deck overlooks the entire city landscape up to Tokyo Tower and is completely indoors. Around the windows are also a few standing tables and a bench for anyone to use. To access the Sky Lounge, there is a special elevator which stops only on the 38th and 39th floor.

DINING&SKY TOP OF YEBISU

On the 38F and 39F next to the Sky Lounge, is DINING&SKY TOP OF YEBISU, a collection of modern restaurants and cafes with dining areas overlooking the entire city. The restaurants are relatively new and modern with a luxurious feel, making it a perfect place for lunch.

2. TOP Museum (Ebisu)


TOP Museum is a museum ideal for photography lovers; with over 38,000 works of photography in total, it’s easy to spend over an hour here. In addition to the exhibitions and gift shop, on the 4th floor of the museum is also a library with a vast collection of both Japanese and international works, criticisms, and the history of photography. You can even make up to 50 copies of any of the content in the library at varying sizes and colors for a souvenir!

3. Atre Sky Garden 8F (Ebisu)


By Ebisu Station on the 8th floor of Atre Ebisu Mall (West Wing) is a free rooftop rest space meant for dining, but anyone is free to use the seating area. Although outdoors, the shaded locations make it a great location to lounge. Around the shopping mall are also many eateries to buy food.

All-You-Can-Eat Style Eateries

The Atre Mall has many stores which sell higher end foods for take out. Whether you’re in the mood for sweets, fried foods, or traditional Japanese food, the stores all offer deli style take out, making it a fun way to try a variety of foods.

4. Harakado 5F (Harajuku)

Harakado is a commercial complex located in Tokyu Plaza Mall with a 5th and 6th floor cafeteria called Harajuku Kitchen and Terrace. This trendy mall is full of galleries, events, and is partially occupied by graphic design students selling their designs and products on the 2nd and 3rd floors. The cafeteria area has a variety of foods, a free refillable water station (for customers), and window seating overlooking the beautiful views of Harajuku.

An Arial View of Harajuku

Outside of the rest area is an outdoor deck with live music, outdoor seating, and a view of one of the main streets of Harajuku. They even spray cold water mist during the hotter months!

5. With Harajuku Park (1F, 2F, 3F)

With Harajuku Park is located directly across Harajuku Station and is connected to UNIQLO, IKEA, and other fashion stores. All three floors have a variety of seating from couches, work stations, picnic benches, and even terrace seating. It’s a perfect place to rest and even work for free. The UNIQLO is also a rare branch where you can design your own shirts.

Overlook Harajuku Station/Meiji Shrine

On the third floor is a stylish terrace with trashcans and shaded seating. You can see an aerial view of Harajuku Station and Meiji Jingu Shrine from the balcony. On the opposite end is also a stylish deck which overlooks Harajuku neighborhoods.

6. Colombin Street (Harajuku)


This newly built, small but shaded alleyway is part of a memorial monument dedicated to Colombin Cafe, a legendary and historical pastry store that was the first French pastry store to ever open in Japan. As the Harajuku location has now moved, in its place a monument and trendy walking path was created. Colombin Street is located next to the Meiji Jingumae ‘Harajuku’ Station metro line: here

7. Shibuya Hikarie Mall 11F (Sky Lobby)


On the 11th floor of Shibuya Hikarie Mall is a free space area called Sky Lobby. This floor is surrounded by glass windows where you can overlook the Shibuya Sky Scramble walkway from a birds eye view. You can also find some indoor benches and a free work space to rest at. If you need a space to rest after shopping, the 3F and 4F of the mall also have a variety of comfortable couches, benches, and lounge chairs by the elevator. Outside the 4th floor is also an outdoor lounge area.

8. Cosmo Planetarium Shibuya


The Cosmos Planetarium in Shibuya is a hidden gem located a short 5 minute walk from Shibuya Station. With several shows throughout the day, it’s suitable for people of all ages. A perfect place for a nap, for 40 minutes, visitors can lay down on fully reclining seats and stargaze at all the constellations and stars residing over Tokyo while listening to calming music. For details and show times check the website: here

9. Shibuya Botanical Garden


The Shibuya Botanical Garden is a trendy tropical oasis hidden in the city where visitors can enjoy over 200 types of tropical plants and learn about botanical history for only 100 yen! Inside the building are many seats as well as a stylish cafe and mini library for guests to enjoy. The cafe sells a variety of herbal drinks and foods starting from 500 yen.

10. Shibuya MODI


Shibuya MODI is a shopping complex in the center of Shibuya, a 3 minute walk from Shibuya crossing and Shibuya Station. This mall sports several collab events, pop up stores and a Starbucks. Right outside the entrance is shaded seating and on the 3F by the escalators is a long row of benches inside the airconditioned mall.

11. SSRIDE & Shibuya Sky (Shibuya)


By the time it starts to cool down, after a day of walking around Tokyo, a perfect way to rest your feet and enjoy the city is by taking the SSRIDE. This top bus allows you to see Shibuya in a new way, and best yet, it includes a Shibuya Sky set ticket which allows you to enter Shibuya Sky at any time.

Shibuya at night


To board the SSRIDE, reserve a ticket and wait at the first floor bus stop of Tokyu Plaza Shibuya. By the boarding area is a comfortable indoor air conditioned waiting area. The Shibuya Sky ticket will be given after the bus ride and can be used at any time during the day. For more information, read more: here

For access & reservations check: here

12. Karuizawa


Karuizawa is a cool oasis with an average temperature of 20℃ (68℉) in the summer, located only around 3 1/2 hours from Shibuya. Refresh yourself around Shiraito Falls or Kumoba Pond and take a walk around this quaint and historical area (such as Old Karuizawa Ginza Street) which had settlers dating back to 7,000 years ago. This stylish but retro area is surrounded by forest greenery, making it a great place for activities such as bicycling, hiking, or golfing.

Book a bus ticket

Karuizawa’s Shopping Outlet with over 200 Stores

Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza is Japan’s longest standing shopping mall surrounded by beautiful greenery. This mall includes over 200 popular brands, making it a perfect stop to buy everything you need. The express bus also makes a stop here making it easy for you to carry back your souviners.

Harunire Terrace hidden in the forest

Harunire Terrace is a stylish, laid back terrace which features casual restaurants, cozy cafes, and boutiques filled with unique items and books. Its a great place to sit and enjoy the cool air, green trees, and to relax.

13. Kusatsu Onsen – Japan’s Premier Hot Spring Resort


Kusatsu Onsen is ranked one of the top 3 onsen resort towns in Japan and is located at a high elevation of 1,200 feet in Gunma Prefecture, making it significantly cooler than the hotter Tokyo area. Located 4 hours by bus from Shibuya, this charming town is cool even in the summer, with picturesque yukata rentals, cafes, outdoor spas, and lush green nature in addition to its famous indoor onsen spas. During the spring and summer seasons, the Kusatsu Onsen Ski Resort transforms its ski slopes into a zipline and panoramic swing area.

Book a bus ticket

Marvel at the Yumomi Show

After overlooking Yubatake (the towns main attraction), visitors can witness the yumomi show, a festive and almost mesmerizing dance like performance using paddles to mix and cool the areas water. These shows take place daily in the Netsunoyu building next to the Yubatake.

View a detailed itinerary of Kusatsu

14. Kamikochi


Tucked away in the Japanese Alps is Kamikochi, a refreshing mountainous hiking area often known as one of the most popular national parks in all of Japan. Kamikochi averages 20℃ (68℉) in the summer and is famous for its deep, breathtaking mountain views, crystal clear waters, and a variety of stylish cafes and finger food to eat while enjoying the deep nature of Japan. Stepping into Kamikochi, you can take in the fresh mountainous air and immediately feel yourself cooling off from the city heat.

Book a bus ticket


Benefits of the express bus:

  1. No transfers needed – Get to your destination directly from Shibuya
  2. Comfortable interior – Spacious, reclining seats are easy to relax in
  3. Enjoy the scenery – Enjoy the beautiful mountain views from the large windows
  4. Economical – More affordable than trains
  5. Luggage storage – Large suitcases can be stored in the trunk
Make a reservation

How to ride the bus:

  • Book a ticket online (in advance)
    • Advance ticket reservations can be booked online at highwaybus.com
    • There is also a ticket machine and window at the bus terminal, however in case tickets sell out at your desired time, we recommend booking your ticket online in advance
  • Head to Shibuya Mark City Highway Bus Terminal
    • The bus terminal is located on the 5th Floor of the West Mall of Shibuya Mark City, a short walk from Shibuya Station and the Hachiko statue (picture explanation here)
    • Inside the terminal are coin lockers, charging ports, and a currency exchange machine
  • Board the bus by showing your online ticket or printed voucher (it is necessary to board)

News/Updates:

■ Kusatsu Area | Snow Monkey Park News
The Snow Monkey Park in Nagano is a popular spot where people can watch wild monkeys bathe in the wild. Contrary to its name, the park can also be visited in the summer and fall when baby monkeys are born. The roads to the park begin to close in the winter as the roads become too dangerous, so summer and fall are great times to visit if you are staying for more than a day in Kusatsu.

Road closures:
–Shiga–Kusatsu Kōgen Route (to Snow Monkey Park): Late November 2025 ~ May 2026
Watch the live camera: here


■ Kusatsu Area | Mt.Nikko-Shirose News
Mt.Nikko-Shirose is a popular hiking area with a ropeway in the Kusatsu area. Please use the Yumoto Onsen Trailhead to reach the ropeway, as access from the Funsensha/Kawamata side will be affected.

Road closures:
–Sanno Forestry Road: May 12th, 2025 ~ Late September (TBD)
–National Route 120 (Konsei Road): December 25th, 2025 ~ April 25th, 2026





  • 2024.12.09

Shirakawago Luggage Storage / Coin Locker Info

Topic: Shirakawago coin locker price, Shirakawago bus terminal
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.

Bus reservations from Takayama → Shirakawago
Shirakawago luggage storage map (3 locations)

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 <<<

  • 2024.11.26

How to Buy Tickets for Shibuya Sky

Topic: Shibuya Sky Tickets/ Entrance Fee Info

What is Shibuya Sky?

Shibuya Sky view during the day

Escape the heat in Tokyo!
(FREE rest areas and indoor activities near Shibuya)

If you’re looking for some ideas to keep cool and to kill time in Tokyo, there are plenty of spaces near Shibuya. Plus–cooler climates like Kamikochi and Kusatsu can be reached by bus directly from Shibuya!

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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.

You can make reservations for the day you’d like to enter up to 4 weeks in advance. Credit cards issued outside of Japan can be used through these websites.

Examples of online travel agencies are:

Klook , KKday [5% App discount] Code: APP5OFF

*Note: The evening and weekend times can get 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 <<<