How long does the Joetsu Shinkansen take?

The journey time varies depending on the Shinkansen service used. The “Toki” and “Max Toki” trains (although the “Max Toki” trains are gradually being phased out) are the most common. The direct journey usually takes between 1 hour 40 minutes and 2 hours 10 minutes. Punctuality is a hallmark of Japanese trains, allowing for reliable planning.

Train Tickets from Tokyo Station to Niigata

Q: Where can I travel with the Japan Rail Pass?

The pass covers nearly the entirety of Japan's JR-operated network, excluding Okinawa. This includes local JR lines (marked with a "JR" suffix or logo), all Shinkansen bullet trains including the express Nozomi and Mizuho (additional fee applies for these two), the Tokyo Monorail, overnight sleeper trains like the Sunrise Seto, select local JR bus networks, and the ferry to Itsukushima Island in Hiroshima.

Q: How much does a Tokyo-Niigata ticket cost?

The cost of a standard reserved seat ticket (Ordinary Car) between Tokyo and Niigata is generally around ¥10,000 to ¥11,000. This price may vary slightly depending on the season, seat type (unreserved, Green Car), and specific service. For travelers with a Japan Rail Pass, the journey is included. We recommend checking current prices on booking platforms or at JR ticket offices before departure.

Q: What to do in Niigata on a getaway from Tokyo?

Niigata, often visited for its relaxed atmosphere and culinary specialties, offers several options for a day trip: Sake Tasting and Local Flavors: Niigata Station is home to “Ponshukan,” a tasting center where you can sample around 100 local sakes. The region is also famous for its rice, fresh seafood from the Sea of Japan, and its specific soba or ramen noodles. Culture and History: The Furumachi district is an old geisha district with a historic atmosphere. The Northern Culture Museum and Garden, although a little further from the city center, offer a glimpse into the opulence of the local landowners of yesteryear. Walks and Landscapes: The Shinano River, Japan's longest river, flows through the city, and walks along its banks are possible. The Bandai Bridge is a notable architectural landmark. We recommend prioritizing the discovery of local flavors for a day trip.

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.

Add a back

Official train tickets seller

Book your (bullet) train tickets online through an official partnership with JR, Japan’s national railway group.

Choose your preferred seat

Pick your perfect seat: aisle seat for more comfort, or window seat for breathtaking panoramas. The choice is yours!

7/7 Assistance

Our team of Japan experts, based in Europe and in Japan, is available 7/7 to help you, on all channels.

Our next departures

Itinerary Tokyo › Niigata

Lowest price

64 €

Fastest option

1h50

First/last departure

06:08 / 21:40

Distance

999.00 km

See all schedules

The train journey between Tokyo and Niigata via the Joetsu Shinkansen offers a remarkable transition in scenery. After passing through dense urban areas and mountainous regions via a network of tunnels, some of which were major global engineering achievements, you will discover the vast rural expanses of Niigata Prefecture. This region is particularly renowned for its abundant rice fields, which are the basis of its famous rice and sake production.

Frequently asked questions

The pass covers nearly the entirety of Japan's JR-operated network, excluding Okinawa. This includes local JR lines (marked with a "JR" suffix or logo), all Shinkansen bullet trains including the express Nozomi and Mizuho (additional fee applies for these two), the Tokyo Monorail, overnight sleeper trains like the Sunrise Seto, select local JR bus networks, and the ferry to Itsukushima Island in Hiroshima.

The cost of a standard reserved seat ticket (Ordinary Car) between Tokyo and Niigata is generally around ¥10,000 to ¥11,000. This price may vary slightly depending on the season, seat type (unreserved, Green Car), and specific service. For travelers with a Japan Rail Pass, the journey is included. We recommend checking current prices on booking platforms or at JR ticket offices before departure.

Niigata, often visited for its relaxed atmosphere and culinary specialties, offers several options for a day trip:
Sake Tasting and Local Flavors: Niigata Station is home to “Ponshukan,” a tasting center where you can sample around 100 local sakes. The region is also famous for its rice, fresh seafood from the Sea of Japan, and its specific soba or ramen noodles.
Culture and History: The Furumachi district is an old geisha district with a historic atmosphere. The Northern Culture Museum and Garden, although a little further from the city center, offer a glimpse into the opulence of the local landowners of yesteryear.
Walks and Landscapes: The Shinano River, Japan's longest river, flows through the city, and walks along its banks are possible. The Bandai Bridge is a notable architectural landmark.
We recommend prioritizing the discovery of local flavors for a day trip.

Do you have any other questions?

We are here to help you

Check the FAQ

Search an itinerary