Ticket - Train - Karuizawa - Tokyo station

The Asama Shinkansen journey between Tokyo station and Karuizawa Station generally takes between 1 hour and 1 hour 15 minutes. The exact duration may vary slightly depending on the specific service and the number of stops.
Shinkansen punctuality is a recognized characteristic of the Japanese railway network, allowing for precise scheduling of your plans.

By Shinkansen: The most efficient way to travel to Karuizawa from Tokyo station is by taking the Shinkansen (bullet train) on the Hokuriku Shinkansen line. The "Asama" services are those that most frequently serve Karuizawa Station from Tokyo station . "Kagayaki" trains are faster but generally do not stop at Karuizawa.
Departure Station: Tokyo station is the main departure point.
Arrival Station: Karuizawa Station.
JR Pass Validity: The Japan Rail Pass is valid for Asama Shinkansen services on the Hokuriku Line. It covers both unreserved and reserved seats in Ordinary Car class.

Karuizawa offers various activities for a day trip, blending nature, shopping, and culture:

Shopping and Entertainment: The Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza is a large outlet mall located right next to the station. It offers a wide range of national and international brands.
Nature and Relaxation:
Kumoba Pond (Swan Lake): A picturesque pond where you can walk and admire swans and the reflections of trees, especially beautiful in autumn.
Cycling Paths: Karuizawa is renowned for its cycling paths. Bicycle rental is a popular option for exploring the town and its surroundings.
Shiraito Falls: These waterfalls, located about 25 minutes by bus from the station, are less classic waterfalls and more springs flowing over a rock face, creating an elegant curtain of water.
Culture and History:
Karuizawa Ginza Street: A historic shopping street with local boutiques, cafes, and restaurants.
St. Paul's Catholic Church: A stone church designed by architect Antonin Raymond, an architectural landmark of the town.
Gastronomy: Enjoy local restaurants offering varied cuisine, often influenced by regional products.

We recommend planning local transportation in Karuizawa, either by renting a bicycle at the station or by using local buses, especially for more distant attractions like Shiraito Falls. Karuizawa is particularly pleasant in spring, summer (to escape Tokyo station's heat), and autumn for the vibrant foliage.

A one-way ticket for a reserved seat in an Ordinary Car on the Asama Shinkansen costs approximately 5,500 to 6,000 yen.
Therefore, a round trip without a JR Pass would cost approximately between 11,000 and 12,000 yen.
We recommend checking the exact fares at the time of booking, as they may vary slightly. Using a Japan Rail Pass allows you to cover this cost if the pass is activated and valid.

Yes, a more economical alternative is the express highway bus. Several companies, such as JR Kanto Bus or Seibu Kanko Bus, operate services between Karuizawa and Tokyo station. These buses are generally cheaper than the Shinkansen, but the travel time is longer, approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, and can be subject to delays due to road traffic. Stops in Tokyo station vary (for example, Tokyo station , Shinjuku Busta). The comfort of buses is less compared to the Shinkansen, but they offer a viable solution for budget-conscious travelers.

We recommend using the Shinkansen (bullet train) via the Hokuriku Shinkansen line. The main services are the 'Asama' trains, which connect Karuizawa directly to Tokyo station . The journey duration is approximately 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes. Shinkansen trains are renowned for their punctuality and comfort. Seats are spacious, and dedicated spaces are generally available for large luggage at the back of the cars or in specific compartments. Tickets can be purchased at JR ticket counters in major stations, from vending machines, or through online booking platforms. The Japan Rail Pass is valid on this line for non-reserved seats (except for certain 'Kagayaki' services where a reservation is mandatory; even then, the pass covers the basic fare, but a reservation must still be made).

The departure times for the last Shinkansen from Karuizawa to Tokyo station vary slightly depending on the day of the week and the season. Generally, the last 'Asama' train departs from Karuizawa between 9:30 PM and 10:00 PM. We advise checking the exact schedules on the day of your travel on the official JR East website or directly at the station. It's wise to arrive at the station well before the departure time to avoid any rush.

The main station in Karuizawa is named 'Karuizawa Station' (軽井沢駅). It is located in the heart of the town and is easily accessible from Karuizawa's main attractions and accommodations. It serves as a major hub for the Hokuriku Shinkansen line, as well as for local lines and buses. The station is well-signed and offers all necessary amenities (ticket counters, shops, luggage lockers).