Tokyo → Hakuba Route for Winter 2025–2026: Shinkansen + Bus Package Now Available!
This article is written by Tetsu, our Shinkansen Expert — the go-to expert for train routes, seating tips, and travel hacks.
Great news for travelers heading to Hakuba this winter!
A Tokyo → Nagano (Shinkansen) + Nagano → Hakuba (Highway Bus) package is now available for the 2025–2026 ski season—a faster and more flexible alternative to the once-daily Azusa Limited Express.
And the best part:
👉 Bus service begins December 13, 2025, and travel dates from Dec 13 onward are now bookable.
Why Choose This Route?
Fast, Flexible, and Comfortable
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Multiple Shinkansen departures from Tokyo Station
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Choose Ordinary, Green Car, or Gran Class — far more seat availability and seat options than the limited Azusa
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Both the Shinkansen and the bus use QR codes — no need to deal with mailing physical tickets, so everything is completely hassle-free.
Easy Transfer at Nagano Station
The connection at Nagano Station is simple:
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Take the Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo
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Go to Bus Stop No. 26 at Nagano Station’s East Exit
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Scan your QR code and board the direct bus to Hakuba
Perfect for first-time Japan travelers and return visitors alike.
Hakuba Area Bus Stops (Choose Your Drop-Off Point)
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Nagano Station East Exit (Bus stop 26)
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Hakuba Goryu
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Hakuba Station
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Snow Peak LAND STATION HAKUBA
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Iwatake Shinden
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Kirikubo (Ltd. Exp.)
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Ochikura (Ltd. Exp.)
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Tsugaike Kogen
Ideal for reaching Hakuba’s top ski resorts, including Goryu, Happo, Iwatake, and Tsugaike.
Book Your Winter Trip Now
Winter is peak travel season—seats fill up fast.
👉 Tokyo → Hakuba (Shinkansen + Bus)
👉 Hakuba → Tokyo (Bus + Shinkansen)
Reserve your preferred time and enjoy a fast, easy, QR-based journey to Hakuba this ski season!
More Ways to Hakuba
While this package is one of the best ways to get to the slopes, we understand you might be looking for other options! For a complete breakdown of every route—including Express Buses, the Azusa Limited Express, and direct access from Narita Airport—check out our comprehensive guide below.
Discover all the ways to reach Hakuba: The Hakuba Access Guide
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We provide both QR code-based tickets for easy station access, ideal for last-minute bookings, and physical paper tickets, which can be delivered to your home abroad, hotel, major post offices, or even a friend’s residence across Japan—perfect for carefully planned itineraries.
Our expertise in Japan’s rail system allows us to offer customized support with a deep understanding of routes, connections, and seating options—including oversized luggage seats, scenic views, and group arrangements.
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Seat guide
Reserved Seat (Ordinary Reserved Seat)
Your seat is reserved and secured when you book your tickets, allowing you to head to the station with peace of mind.
Think of it as "economy class" seating.
Green Reserved Seat
Enjoy better seats and free blankets. Popular among Japanese business people, executives, and those who prefer a comfortable travel experience.
Consider it "business class" seating.
GranClass
Known as the "First Class" of Shinkansen seats.
Available only on the Hokuriku and Tohoku/Hokkaido Shinkansen lines, these seats offer airline-like amenities and meals (only on select trains).
They are the most expensive option.
Unreserved Seat
You can take any open seat in the unreserved cars on the departure date (no departure time will be indicated on your ticket).
This is the best option if cost is your priority and you are traveling during less crowded seasons or times.
Tetsu
The Shinkansen Expert
With a passion for all things rail, I specialize in helping travelers navigate Japan’s extensive train network—especially the Shinkansen. From how to book reserved seats to choosing the right side for Mt. Fuji views, I provide expert guidance on riding Japan’s iconic bullet trains with ease.
Having supported countless international travelers, I understand the unique questions and challenges that come with using Japan’s rail system for the first time. My goal is to make your journey faster, smarter, and stress-free—no matter where you're from or where you're headed.