How to Book Shinkansen Tickets from Tokyo to Iiyama (A Complete Guide for Foreign Travelers)
- OnpointMadarao
- Jun 7
- 12 min read
A simple, up-to-date guide to navigating Japan’s train system and securing a fast, scenic ride from Tokyo to the mountains of Nagano, perfect for snow seekers, families, and first-time visitors alike.
Your Complete Guide to Booking the Tokyo to Iiyama Shinkansen for a Japan Ski Trip:
Over the past seven years running Onpoint Madarao, I’ve had countless guests message me the same question just days before their arrival: “How do we book the train from Tokyo to Iiyama?” For many international travelers, Japan’s train system can be overwhelming at first. But the truth is, it’s one of the most reliable and enjoyable ways to travel once you know how it works.
This blog is your full travel cheat sheet. Whether you’re flying into Narita or Haneda, staying in Tokyo, or coming straight to the mountains, I’ll walk you through the fastest and smartest way to reach the Nagano snowfields: the Hokuriku Shinkansen. This sleek bullet train rockets from the heart of Tokyo to the small alpine town of Iiyama in less than 100 minutes without transfers, delays, or confusion.
We’ll cover everything: what train to take, which websites to use, how to pay, whether the JR Pass is worth it, and how to make the whole experience smooth, especially if you’re traveling with ski bags, kids, or on a tight schedule.
Whether you’re planning a ski holiday, a quiet mountain escape, or your first trip to Japan, this guide is for you.
If you’re planning a ski trip to Madarao, Nozawa, or nearby resorts, your journey will likely begin with a scenic and lightning-fast Shinkansen ride from Tokyo to Iiyama. This is one of the easiest and most beautiful routes for reaching Japan’s powder-packed mountains, but for many international guests, booking a train in a new country can feel overwhelming.
I’ve run Onpoint Madarao, a boutique ski lodge in Nagano, for nearly seven years, and one of the most common questions I get from first-time guests is this:
“How do I book the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Iiyama in English?”
So I’ve created this comprehensive guide to walk you through everything, whether you’re using a Japan Rail Pass or buying a one-way ticket. You’ll get all the steps, best websites, travel tips, and links to the official JR platforms. By the end of this blog, you’ll know exactly what to do, where to book, and how to travel like a pro.
Let’s jump in.
What Is the Shinkansen and Why It’s the Best Way to Reach Iiyama
If you’ve never taken a Shinkansen before, prepare to be impressed. Japan’s bullet trains are fast, efficient, incredibly clean, and consistently on time, to the minute. For skiers and snowboarders headed to the northern mountains, there’s truly no better way to travel. You’ll glide through snow-covered landscapes at speeds over 250 km/h, comfortably seated, warm, and stress-free.
The Shinkansen line that connects Tokyo to Iiyama is called the Hokuriku Shinkansen. It’s a lifeline for many travelers heading to Nagano Prefecture in winter. While buses and regional trains can take 4–5 hours with connections, the bullet train cuts that time in half, and offers a direct route from central Tokyo to the doorstep of resorts like Madarao Kogen, Nozawa Onsen, and Togari.
One thing that surprises many of our guests is just how easy this trip can be once the ticket is sorted. That’s what this entire blog is about. I want to show you why the Shinkansen is not just the best option for reaching Iiyama, it’s an essential part of the Japanese travel experience.
Let’s break down what makes it so good:
Speed: 1 hour 40 minutes from Tokyo to Iiyama
Comfort: Quiet cabins, reserved seating, clean toilets, and plenty of legroom
Views: Panoramic snow-covered countryside in winter
Convenience: No changes or confusion, just board and go
If you’re new to Japan’s transport system, here’s the quick breakdown:
The Shinkansen is Japan’s high-speed bullet train.
The line you’ll need is the Hokuriku Shinkansen, which runs from Tokyo Station to Iiyama Station, and continues to Kanazawa.
The trip from Tokyo to Iiyama takes 1 hour and 40 minutes on the Hakutaka or Kagayaki train (though Kagayaki skips Iiyama, so avoid that one).
It’s fast, clean, scenic, and reliable, truly world-class.
Iiyama Station is located just 20 minutes by shuttle or taxi from Madarao Kogen, and under 30–40 minutes from Nozawa Onsen. That’s why many travelers choose this route, it’s effortless compared to taking local trains or buses.
Highlights of the Shinkansen experience:
Reserved seating with overhead luggage racks
Quiet cabins (great for kids or resting after a long flight)
Winter views of the Japanese Alps en route
No need to transfer, direct route from Tokyo
What Are Your Options? JR Pass vs. Individual Tickets
Before you even click “Book,” you’ll face your first decision: Should I buy a Japan Rail Pass or book a single ticket to Iiyama? This can be confusing at first, but here’s a simple way to think about it.
If your Japan itinerary includes multiple cities—like Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, or Hiroshima—the JR Pass can be a fantastic value. It gives you unlimited access to most Shinkansen and JR trains across Japan for a flat rate. But if you’re just planning to visit Nagano, or maybe Tokyo and one ski resort, a single ticket is often cheaper, easier, and less stressful.
Over the years, I’ve had guests choose both, and both options are great when used correctly. The key is knowing what your schedule looks like and how many train rides you’ll need.
If you’re only going to Iiyama and back, don’t worry about the pass. Just grab a reserved seat ticket (I’ll show you how below). But if you’re planning a longer rail journey across the country, the JR Pass pays for itself quickly.
Let’s break it down so you know exactly what’s right for you.
Before booking, you’ll need to decide:
Are you using a Japan Rail Pass or paying per ride?
Option A: Using a Japan Rail Pass
If you’re staying in Japan for a couple of weeks and plan to visit multiple cities, the JR Pass is a great deal. It offers unlimited rides on most JR trains (including the Hokuriku Shinkansen) and can be reserved online.
Get your JR Pass voucher before arrival: https://www.japanrailpass.net
After exchange, reserve your Tokyo → Iiyama seat at any JR office or online via Eki-Net (more on that shortly)
Pros:
Saves money if you’re visiting Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Nagano
Free seat reservations
Valid for 7, 14, or 21 days
Cons:
Needs to be purchased before arriving in Japan
Some restrictions on which trains you can use (e.g. no Nozomi on Tokaido Line)
Option B: Buying a Single Ticket (Most Common for Ski Trips)
If you’re just visiting the mountains and Tokyo, a single ticket is easier.
One-way Tokyo → Iiyama = approx. ¥8,000–¥9,000
Reserved seat highly recommended
Book online, pick up at station, or use a QR code
Where and How to Book Your Shinkansen Ticket in English
Booking Shinkansen tickets in Japan used to be a bit tricky for foreign visitors. Long lines, language barriers, and limited online access often made it stressful. But that’s all changed.
Today, there are several trusted online platforms where you can book your Tokyo → Iiyama Shinkansen ticket in English, using your foreign credit card, and collect your ticket at the station, sometimes even by QR code. It’s fast, safe, and easier than many airlines.
I’ve personally tested these sites, and these are the three I recommend to all my guests: JR East Eki-Net, Shinkansen-Ticket.com, and Klook. Each has its perks depending on your travel needs.
In this section, I’ll walk you through each site, what it offers, and how to make the booking yourself. You’ll be able to select seats, pay securely, and know exactly where and how to pick up your tickets when you land in Japan.
I’ve also included links to all platforms so you can bookmark them for your trip.
✅ Best Online Booking Options for Foreign Travelers
1. JR East Train Reservation (Eki-Net)
Official site of JR East. Clean interface, real-time availability, and pickup at station.
Website: https://www.eki-net.com/en/jreast-train-reservation/Top/Index
Make an account > Choose Tokyo > Choose Iiyama > Pick train > Reserve seat
Pickup at ticket machine or JR desk
Accepts foreign credit cards
2. Shinkansen Ticket .com
Private site offering online booking + QR delivery or hotel drop-off.
Website: https://shinkansen-ticket.com/products/shinkansenticket-tokyo-iiyama
QR code works with machines at Tokyo Station
Great for guests wanting tickets in advance
3. Klook / Japan Experience
Third-party booking sites often used for JR Pass and ticket deals. Reliable, but pricing may vary slightly.
Step-by-Step Booking Example Using JR East
Even with the right link in hand, many travelers still feel a bit lost navigating Japanese websites, even if they’re in English. That’s why I created this section to walk you step-by-step through booking your ticket via JR East’s Eki-Net site, which is the official reservation platform used by the train company itself.
This is the option I personally recommend most often. It’s reliable, secure, and lets you choose your exact train and seat. You can also change your ticket later, if needed, and the platform is fully compatible with most international credit cards.
I’ll guide you through every part of the process, from logging in and choosing the train to paying and collecting your ticket. This is especially helpful if you’re a first-time traveler or want to avoid any issues at the station.
Let’s book your ride like a pro.
1. Go to JR East Eki-Net
2. Register (takes 2 minutes)
3. Search: Tokyo → Iiyama
4. Select your date and time
5. Choose seat type (Ordinary is fine)
6. Add passenger info and pay by card
7. Print or screenshot confirmation
8. When in Japan, collect your ticket:
JR East ticket machine
Travel Service Center at major JR stations (Tokyo, Shinjuku, Ueno)
Traveling with Large Luggage and Ski Bags on the Shinkansen – What You Need to Know
If you’re heading to the mountains, chances are you’re not traveling light. Over the years at Onpoint Madarao, I’ve seen everything from board bags the size of surfboards to families juggling six suitcases and a toddler in tow. While Japan’s train system is famously clean and efficient, it’s not always built with oversized luggage in mind, especially on the Shinkansen.
Unlike airport transfers or private shuttles, the Shinkansen operates on a tight, high-precision schedule with limited time at each stop. You only have about 90 seconds to 3 minutes to get on and off the train, depending on the station. Add in heavy bags, tight corridors, and a bit of confusion, and things can get stressful fast, especially at smaller stations like Iiyama, where platforms are shorter and exit signs are more limited.
This section covers exactly what you need to do when traveling with large luggage or ski/snowboard bags, including how to store your items, when to prepare to disembark, and the etiquette expected by local Japanese travelers. These small actions make a big difference, not just for your own peace of mind, but for the smooth flow of everyone around you.
Whether you’re a solo rider or a family group hauling gear, here’s how to travel like a seasoned pro without disrupting the Shinkansen experience.
What to Do When Carrying Ski Bags or Oversized Luggage
Reserve a seat near the end of the car: These areas are closest to the designated luggage storage areas or open space behind the last row of seats.
Use overhead racks for regular suitcases: Most medium-sized luggage (up to 60L) will fit above your seat.
Use the large item reservation system: For very large bags (over 160 cm), you’re now required to reserve a special seat with large luggage space in advance on many JR routes. See JR East info here.
Load and unload efficiently: Prep your bags early. If you’re getting off at Iiyama, move toward the exit at least one station before arrival (usually Nagano).
Label your bags clearly in case you store them out of sight.
Travel during off-peak hours if possible: Trains are less crowded and you’ll have more space to maneuver.
Send your luggage ahead before your train ride if possible: If you have the opportunity to send your luggage in advance do so before you board the train. You can do this from the airport or your hotel using the TA-Q-BIN service by Yamato Kuroneko. You can see our blog post on TA-Q-BIN here.
What NOT to Do with Large Luggage
❌ Don’t block aisles or doorways: This creates congestion and frustration for other travelers. Remember, everyone has somewhere to be and transfer times are precise and short.
❌ Don’t store ski bags upright: They can fall during transit.
❌ Don’t wait until the train stops to start moving: You’ll delay other passengers and may not get off in time, this may mean that others won't be able to disembark on time too.
❌ Don’t assume all Shinkansen staff will speak English: Be ready with simple Japanese, printed confirmation details, or google translate.
Insider Travel Tips From Onpoint Guests
When you run a lodge like Onpoint Madarao, you hear every travel story imaginable—missed trains, over-packed ski bags, tickets booked for the wrong day. That’s why I always share these insider tips with our guests. They come from real people who’ve traveled this route before you.
Whether it’s figuring out where to sit with your kids, what to bring for the ride, or how to avoid the wrong train, these small details can make or break your trip.
If you’re booking your Shinkansen to Iiyama for the first time, don’t skip this part. It’s packed with golden advice.
After hosting hundreds of guests over the years, here are my best insider tips:
Avoid the Kagayaki train: It skips Iiyama. Stick with Hakutaka.
Travel before 3 PM if possible: More time to check into your lodge, rent gear, and settle in.
Use Hyperdia or Navitime: To check real-time schedules.
If traveling with kids: Book seats near the ends of cars (closer to toilets and baggage racks).
Bring snacks: While most Shinkansen have food carts, options are limited on short rides.
Allow buffer time at Tokyo Station: It’s massive and easy to get turned around.
What Happens When You Arrive at Iiyama Station
You’ve booked your ticket, boarded your train, and now the snow-capped countryside begins to fill the window. As you glide into Iiyama Station, you’re officially in snow country, and you’re closer than ever to those powder turns.
But what happens when you get off the train? This section will guide you through exactly what to expect the moment you step onto the platform. Where do you exit? How do you find the Madarao shuttle? What if you arrive late?
I’ll walk you through all of it, so you feel 100% confident and ready the moment you roll into town.
Iiyama Station is modern and compact. Upon arrival:
You’ll exit the gates and walk straight toward the North Exit
Shuttle buses to Madarao Kogen are clearly marked and run seasonally
You can also catch a taxi outside (about ¥4,500 to Madarao)
If you’re staying with us at Onpoint Madarao, we can help arrange pickups or provide shuttle times when you confirm your booking.
Final Advice – Booking Early = Less Stress
Let’s get real, train tickets in Japan can sell out during peak season. And it’s always the people who wait until the last minute who end up standing in long lines at Tokyo Station trying to make last-minute bookings (or worse, missing their preferred train).
So here’s my last piece of advice: Book early. The sooner you lock in your Shinkansen ticket, the smoother your journey will be.
Booking opens exactly 30 days before your travel date. If you’re traveling between December and March, especially around Christmas, New Year’s, or public holidays, reserve your seat the moment it’s available.
Trust me, this one detail can save you a ton of stress.
Shinkansen tickets go on sale 1 month in advance. During peak ski season (late December to February), trains can fill up, especially during long weekends and holidays.
Book early. Use the English-friendly sites. Confirm your lodge stay and match your ticket time to your check-in window.
Why I Help Guests Book This Trip Every Week
As the owner of Onpoint Madarao, I’ve helped hundreds of guests book their Tokyo → Iiyama leg smoothly. We provide:
Pre-trip planning help (routes, JR sites, shuttle advice)
Flexible check-ins for late train arrivals
Private group accommodation
Free shuttle pickups (if timed right)
Real humans you can message if you get lost in Tokyo Station
If you’re looking for a cozy, fully hosted lodge close to Iiyama, you’re already in the right place. Book direct, or reach out for itinerary support anytime.
One Ticket, One Ride, and You’re in the Heart of the Snow
Booking your bullet train ticket from Tokyo to Iiyama is more than a step in your travel plan; it’s part of the adventure. From the futuristic platforms of Tokyo Station to the quiet snowfall outside Iiyama, it’s one of the easiest and most rewarding journeys you’ll take in Japan.
Use the tools in this guide. Book ahead. Travel smart. And when you arrive, whether it’s your first trip or your fifth, you’ll feel like you already know the way.
Booking your Shinkansen to Iiyama is one of the most important parts of planning your winter escape. But it doesn’t have to be stressful. With online platforms now offering full English support, QR code pickups, and JR Pass integration, it’s easier than ever to get from the neon lights of Tokyo to the powder stashes of Madarao in under two hours.
Need help with logistics? Reach out to me directly through the Onpoint Madarao site, and I’ll be glad to point you in the right direction.
Until then, safe travels, and we’ll see you in the snow.
STAY ONPOINT: Travel effortlessly
At Onpoint Madarao, we:
• Accept Yamato luggage 1–2 days before your stay
• Help you ship your gear onward to your next destination
• Specialize in Private-Group lodge bookings for 14 guests
• Provide local support so you never feel lost in translation
Make your next Japan ski trip feel effortless. Let Onpoint + Yamato take care of the heavy lifting, literally.
Book a private-group lodge stay with us, ship your luggage, and have a hassle-free winter escape. At Onpoint Madarao, we specialise in private group lodge bookings. Our team is here to make sure your trip is relaxed, comfortable, and full of good turns.
✅ Madarao's most beautiful lodge all to yourselves
✅ 7-room lodge (up to 14 guests)
✅ Daily breakfast made fresh
✅ Traditional homemade Japanese dinner sets are exclusively for guests
✅ Daily shuttle service to the slopes
✅ Support with rentals, transfers, and local secrets
✅ 195+ Verified Googlemaps reviews. Trusted Onpoint experiences.
Embark on an all-out winter adventure at Onpoint Madarao: carve through deep powder, warm up with incredible local food, and explore the magic of Japan’s snow country. Book now at www.onpointmadarao.com and let Madarao’s winter spirit captivate your heart!
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