How long does the local train journey take?

The local train journey between Iiyama and Nagano, including the transfer at Toyono, takes approximately 45 to 60 minutes. This includes travel time on the JR Iiyama Line and the Shinano Railway Line, not counting transfer waiting times. The Shinkansen reduces this time to 10-15 minutes.

What is the price of the Hokuriku Shinkansen?

For a Hokuriku Shinkansen journey between Iiyama and Nagano, the cost of a non-reserved seat ticket is generally between 1,500 and 2,000 yen. The price is slightly higher for a reserved seat. We recommend checking exact fares on the day of travel or through official booking platforms, as prices may vary slightly depending on the seat type and time of year.

Ticket - Train - Nagano - Iiyama

Q: How to get from Iiyama to Nagano?

The fastest and most direct mode of transport is the Hokuriku Shinkansen. The "Asama" and "Hakutaka" trains serve this route, with the journey lasting approximately 10 to 15 minutes. It is also possible to take local trains. However, there isn't a single direct local line between the two cities. The journey typically involves taking the JR Iiyama Line to Toyono Station, then transferring to the Shinano Railway's Kita-Shinano Line to Nagano Station. Local bus services are also available, representing an alternative that can be more economical but also longer.

Q: What to do in Iiyama from Nagano?

From Nagano, Iiyama is an excellent destination for a day trip or a longer stay to immerse yourself in rural Japan and its traditions. In winter, the region is particularly popular for snow-related activities, including skiing and snowboarding. Iiyama is rich in culture and history. The city is home to numerous temples and shrines, notably the Kosuge Shrine complex, nestled in the mountains. Iiyama is also known for its traditional crafts, such as kiri-e paper cutting and kamakura snow dolls. Outside of the winter months, the surroundings offer numerous opportunities for hiking and nature exploration. A tourist information center located at Iiyama Station can provide maps and detailed recommendations for local activities.

Adults (+12yo)

Children* (< 12yo)

*the price displayed is for dedicated seats; children under 6 and babies can be seated on adults'lap free of charge.

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Iiyama, a city in northern Nagano Prefecture, is often called the "Little Kyoto of Snow" due to its traditional crafts and abundant snowy winters. The Shinkansen journey between Iiyama and Nagano, despite being one of the shortest on the Hokuriku network, offers a striking contrast: it traverses typical rural and mountainous landscapes of the region before arriving in Nagano's more urbanized environment. This section of the line, opened in 2015, has transformed the accessibility of this previously more isolated region.

Frequently asked questions

The fastest and most direct mode of transport is the Hokuriku Shinkansen. The "Asama" and "Hakutaka" trains serve this route, with the journey lasting approximately 10 to 15 minutes.
It is also possible to take local trains. However, there isn't a single direct local line between the two cities. The journey typically involves taking the JR Iiyama Line to Toyono Station, then transferring to the Shinano Railway's Kita-Shinano Line to Nagano Station.
Local bus services are also available, representing an alternative that can be more economical but also longer.

From Nagano, Iiyama is an excellent destination for a day trip or a longer stay to immerse yourself in rural Japan and its traditions.
In winter, the region is particularly popular for snow-related activities, including skiing and snowboarding.
Iiyama is rich in culture and history. The city is home to numerous temples and shrines, notably the Kosuge Shrine complex, nestled in the mountains. Iiyama is also known for its traditional crafts, such as kiri-e paper cutting and kamakura snow dolls.
Outside of the winter months, the surroundings offer numerous opportunities for hiking and nature exploration.
A tourist information center located at Iiyama Station can provide maps and detailed recommendations for local activities.

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