How long is the journey?

The direct Tsubasa Shinkansen journey between Yamagata Station and Tokyo station takes approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes to 3 hours, depending on the specific service and intermediate stops.

What is the price of the Yamagata Shinkansen?

The cost of a ticket for the Yamagata Shinkansen (Tsubasa) between Yamagata and Tokyo station varies depending on the seat type and class (non-reserved, standard reserved, Green Car). For a standard reserved seat, the price typically ranges between 11,000 and 12,000 JPY. Exact prices can be verified on the JR East website or directly at station ticket counters.

Where to catch the train in Yamagata for Tokyo station?

Shinkansen trains bound for Tokyo station depart from Yamagata Station (Yamagata Eki, 山形駅). The station is well-signed with indications in both Japanese and English. The platforms dedicated to the Tsubasa Shinkansen are clearly marked, making it easy for travelers to find their way.

How long is the trip from Tokyo station to Yamagata?

The trip on the Yamagata Shinkansen (Tsubasa) between Tokyo station and Yamagata Station generally takes between 2 hours and 45 minutes and 3 hours. Japanese trains are known for their punctuality, ensuring that schedules are adhered to.

How to get to Yamagata from Tokyo station?

We recommend using the Shinkansen network to travel to Yamagata from Tokyo station. This option is the most efficient and comfortable, providing a direct and fast connection between central Tokyo station and Yamagata Prefecture.

Which Shinkansen to take to Yamagata?

For this journey, you should take the Yamagata Shinkansen. The trains running on this line are called “Tsubasa.” They depart from Tokyo station and run directly to Yamagata Station. The service is regular, with frequent departures throughout the day. The Shinkansen Tsubasa offers comfortable seats and luggage space, including dedicated compartments for large luggage upon reservation.

Ticket - Train - Tokyo station - Yamagata

Q: How to return to Tokyo station from Yamagata?

The return to Tokyo station from Yamagata is primarily via the Yamagata Shinkansen, a direct service called "Tsubasa". These trains connect Yamagata Station directly to Tokyo station without requiring any transfers. We recommend reserving seats in advance, especially during peak periods like holidays or weekends, to guarantee a spot. The Japan Rail Pass is generally usable for this journey, but a seat reservation is always necessary.

Q: What to do in Yamagata in winter from Tokyo station?

Yamagata is a popular winter destination, particularly for the Zao Onsen hot spring resort. The latter is renowned for its ski slopes and its “Juhyo,” trees covered with snow and ice that form spectacular “ice monsters.” Regular bus services run from Yamagata Station to Zao Onsen in about 45 minutes. The region also offers relaxing experiences in traditional onsens, which are particularly enjoyable after a day in the cold.

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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The Yamagata Line's "Tsubasa" Shinkansen is a unique example of a "mini-Shinkansen" in Japan. Unlike conventional Shinkansen lines that use dedicated high-speed tracks, a portion of its route utilizes modernized conventional tracks. This specificity allows "Tsubasa" trains to directly serve regional cities like Yamagata, integrating seamlessly into the existing railway network. A notable aspect of this journey is that, between Fukushima and Tokyo station, the "Tsubasa" train sets are often coupled with those of the Akita Line's "Komachi" Shinkansen, offering travelers the spectacle of trains coupling or uncoupling at Fukushima Station.

Frequently asked questions

The return to Tokyo station from Yamagata is primarily via the Yamagata Shinkansen, a direct service called "Tsubasa". These trains connect Yamagata Station directly to Tokyo station without requiring any transfers. We recommend reserving seats in advance, especially during peak periods like holidays or weekends, to guarantee a spot. The Japan Rail Pass is generally usable for this journey, but a seat reservation is always necessary.

Yamagata is a popular winter destination, particularly for the Zao Onsen hot spring resort. The latter is renowned for its ski slopes and its “Juhyo,” trees covered with snow and ice that form spectacular “ice monsters.” Regular bus services run from Yamagata Station to Zao Onsen in about 45 minutes. The region also offers relaxing experiences in traditional onsens, which are particularly enjoyable after a day in the cold.