4.9
4.6station information and services
Tokyo Station
Wifi
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Ticket Office
- 46227
- Free Wi-Fi available in certain areas; some cafes and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi
- Multiple parking facilities available, including Daimaru Tokyo's parking garage
- Numerous dining options, including Tokyo Ramen Street, Tokyo Sweets Land, and various cafes and restaurants.
- Available at multiple exits, including Yaesu North and Marunouchi South
- Elevators, escalators, and accessible restrooms available; nursing rooms and baby changing facilities provided
- Clean, free restrooms located throughout the station; accessible facilities available
- true
Tokyo Station Complete Guide
Tokyo Station is the main railway hub of Japan and the starting point for many journeys across the country. Located in the heart of the city, it connects Tokyo with destinations such as Kyoto, Osaka, Nagano, and Hokkaido via the high-speed Shinkansen bullet trains, as well as with local JR lines, subways, and airport routes.
Where Is the Shinkansen Station in Tokyo?
The main Shinkansen station in Tokyo is Tokyo Station itself.
This is where most bullet trains depart for destinations across Japan, including Kyoto, Osaka, Nagano, Sendai, and Kanazawa. While some Shinkansen trains also stop at nearby stations such as Ueno or Shinagawa, Tokyo Station is the primary starting point for travelers, especially those arriving from central Tokyo or transferring from other trains in Japan.
Inside Tokyo Station, the Shinkansen areas are separated into different zones depending on the route. The Tokaido Shinkansen, which runs toward Kyoto and Osaka, is located on the Yaesu side of the station. Other lines, such as the Tohoku and Hokuriku Shinkansen, depart from a different section of the station, but all are clearly marked with bilingual signs reading “Shinkansen.”
Shinkansen Lines Departing from Tokyo Station
Tokyo Station is the main departure point for Japan’s high-speed Shinkansen network. From here, travelers can access multiple bullet train lines connecting Tokyo with major cities across the country. Because all major routes start or stop here, Tokyo Station is the most important Shinkansen hub for international visitors.
Tokaido Shinkansen (for Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima) The Tokaido Shinkansen is the most popular line for tourists. It connects Tokyo with Kyoto, Osaka, and further destinations such as Hiroshima and Fukuoka. Trains on this line run frequently throughout the day, making it the fastest and most convenient way to travel between Tokyo and western Japan.
Tohoku Shinkansen (for Sendai, Aomori, and Hokkaido) The Tohoku Shinkansen travels north from Tokyo to cities such as Sendai, Morioka, Aomori, and onward to Hokkaido via the Hokkaido Shinkansen. This route is popular with travelers heading to northern Japan for nature, ski resorts, or regional sightseeing in Tohoku.
Hokuriku Shinkansen (for Nagano and Kanazawa) The Hokuriku Shinkansen connects Tokyo with Nagano, Toyama, and Kanazawa. This line is commonly used by travelers visiting the Japanese Alps, historic samurai districts, and traditional coastal cities in the Chubu region.
Because multiple Shinkansen lines depart from Tokyo Station, it is important to check your route in advance and follow the signs for your specific line inside the station.
Let’s find out how to navigate the Tokyo Station to get to your Shinkansen platform.
Know your Entrance at Tokyo Station
Tokyo Station is split into two main sides: Marunouchi and Yaesu. If you are taking a Shinkansen, the Yaesu side is usually the easiest entry point.
Marunouchi Side
- Historic red-brick building
- Closest to the Imperial Palace and business district
- Best for JR local lines and city exits
Yaesu Side
- Modern side with hotels, shops, and bus terminals
- Closest to Shinkansen ticket offices and platforms
- Recommended entrance for most long-distance travelers
Where do you travel to?: Navigation Depending on Your Destination
Traveling to Nagoya, Kyoto, or Osaka If you are heading to western Japan, including the broader Kansai region:
follow signs for: Tokaido Shinkansen
Step-by-step navigation
- Enter from the Yaesu Central Entrance or the Yaesu South Entrance
- Look for signs reading “Tokaido Shinkansen” (orange color coding)
- Go through one of the Tokaido Shinkansen gates:
- Central Transfer Gate
- South Transfer Gate
- Yaesu Shinkansen Gate
- Platforms are typically 14–19
- Electronic boards clearly show train names like:
- Nozomi
- Hikari
- Kodama
If you see these train names, you are in the correct area.
Traveling to Tohoku & Northern Japan If you are heading to:
- Sendai
- Fukushima
- Morioka
- Aomori
- Akita
- Yamagata
- Hokkaido
follow signs for: Tohoku Shinkansen
Step-by-step navigation
- Enter from either side of the station, but Yaesu North Entrance is most convenient
- Follow the green signs reading “Tohoku / Hokuriku / Hokkaido Shinkansen”
- Use gates such as:
- North Shinkansen Gate
- Central Shinkansen Gate
- Platforms are typically 20–23
- Train names to look for include:
- Hayabusa
- Yamabiko
- Komachi
- Nasuno
If you see these names, you are in the northern Shinkansen zone.
How to Get Your Shinkansen Tickets
Booking and Redeeming Shinkansen Tickets:
- Search Your Route: Enter your departure and arrival cities (like Tokyo to Osaka or Nagoya to Kyoto), along with your desired travel dates, into the Omio journey planner.
- Compare Options: Browse a variety of travel options and compare operators, departure times, and prices.
- Secure Your Booking: Select your preferred ticket and proceed to a secure payment gateway. Omio accepts multiple currencies.
- Reserve your seat (optional): Get peace of mind beforehand. Select your seats and secure them.
- Receive Your QR Code: A QR code for your ticket will be sent to your email and stored in the Omio app, ready to scan at a station ticket machine in Tokyo Station to get your Shinkansen tickets.
- Find a Ticket Machine at Tokyo Station: It is usually easy to spot, as it’s clearly signed “Shinkansen and JR Line Tickets.”
- Redeem Your Tickets: Once you get to one of these ticket machines in the red square above, select English from the language option. Select “Read QR Code.” Scan your QR code to redeem your tickets.
Tip: Check your booking confirmation email from Omio. You’ll find all the necessary numbers you might be asked to enter. Tip: The station staff at the ticket offices are willing to help you book and redeem your tickets. When you’re not certain about the ticket machine, go to the office seen below.
This video shows you how to get your tickets:
How to get on the Shinkansen
You’ll receive two tickets to get on the Shinkansen: One is a basic fare ticket. Another one is a super express (Limited Express) ticket. If you reserve a seat, you’ll get a super express ticket with your car and seat number printed.
- Go to the Ticket Gates: Once you’ve got the physical tickets, go through the automated ticket gate with a green arrow. Let both the basic fare ticket and the super express ticket go through the gate machine, then pick them up on the other side.
- Find your Platform: Your platform is shown on the large electronic boards. Find the number and go to the platform. Platforms for the Tokaido line, which takes you to Nagoya, Kyoto, and Osaka (Shin-Osaka), are usually 14 to 19.
- Find your Car: At the platform, find signs showing where each car stops; look for painted numbers on the platform floor for your car number on the ticket.
- Boarding: Once you settle in your seat, the train conductor might come around and check your ticket.
Good to Know on Tokyo Station
Tokyo Station is one of the largest railway stations in Japan, with multiple levels, entrances, and interconnected passageways. Understanding the basic layout of the station can make transfers easier and help you find your train without stress.
Marunouchi Side vs Yaesu Side Tokyo Station has two main sides. The Marunouchi side is the historic red-brick side facing the Imperial Palace and business district. This area is popular for sightseeing, hotels, and office buildings.
The Yaesu side functions as the transportation hub. Most Shinkansen gates, long-distance buses, taxi stands, and large shopping areas are located here. If you are taking the Tokaido Shinkansen toward Kyoto or Osaka, you will usually head toward the Yaesu side.
Underground Levels and Passageways Much of Tokyo Station’s navigation happens underground. Wide passageways connect JR lines, subway stations, shopping areas, and exits on both sides of the station. Signs are posted frequently in English and Japanese, and following the line name or platform number is usually more reliable than looking for an exit first.
Because the underground areas are extensive, allow extra walking time when transferring between local lines and the Shinkansen platforms.
Finding the Shinkansen Platforms Shinkansen platforms are separated from local train platforms by dedicated ticket gates. Look for overhead signs marked “Shinkansen” along with your specific line name, such as Tokaido Shinkansen or Tohoku Shinkansen. Departure boards near the gates show train names, departure times, and platform numbers.
Once you pass through the Shinkansen gate, platforms are clearly numbered and easy to locate via escalators, elevators, or stairs. If you follow the platform number shown on your ticket or reservation, you should have no trouble finding your train.
Popular Routes from Tokyo Station
Tokyo Station is one of the most important transportation hubs in Japan, offering direct connections to major cities, airports, and regional destinations. Whether you are traveling across the country by Shinkansen or moving around Tokyo, many of the most common routes for visitors begin here.
Tokyo Station → Kyoto / Osaka (Tokaido Shinkansen) The most popular route for international travelers is the journey from Tokyo to Kyoto or Osaka. The Tokaido Shinkansen connects these cities in about 2.5 to 3 hours, making it the fastest and most convenient way to travel between eastern and western Japan. Frequent departures throughout the day mean you can usually find a train that fits your schedule.
Tokyo Station → Narita Airport Tokyo Station offers direct access to Narita Airport via the Narita Express (N’EX). The journey takes roughly one hour and provides comfortable seating, luggage space, and reserved seats, making it a convenient option for travelers heading to or from international flights.
Tokyo Station → Shinjuku / Shibuya For travel within Tokyo, the JR Yamanote Line connects Tokyo Station with major districts such as Shinjuku and Shibuya in about 15–30 minutes. These frequent local trains are often the easiest way to reach hotels, shopping areas, and entertainment districts in the city. Get an IC Card, such as Suica and PASMO, for easy travel with these local lines, which is perfect for an onward trip to Hakone.
Tokyo Station → Nagano (Hokuriku Shinkansen) The Hokuriku Shinkansen provides direct service from Tokyo Station to Nagano in about 1.5 hours. This route is popular with travelers heading to mountain resorts, historic temple towns, or onward to Kanazawa on the Sea of Japan coast.
More Ways to Explore Japan
While the trains to Tokyo and the Shinkansen network are perfect for high-speed travel, there are many alternative ways to navigate the country. If you are traveling on a budget, looking into buses in Japan—such as the highly reliable Willer Express—can be an incredibly cost-effective option. Alternatively, taking Japan domestic flights allows you to cover vast distances quickly. For those wishing to visit the breathtaking outer islands, there are also excellent passenger ferries in Japan operating from various coastal ports.
Facilities at the Tokyo Station
Luggage Storage and Coin Lockers Coin lockers are available throughout Tokyo Station, especially near major entrances, underground passages, and Shinkansen gates. Lockers come in different sizes, including large ones suitable for suitcases. Availability can vary during busy travel seasons, such as the early summer or the cherry blossom season, so arriving early or checking multiple locker areas may help.
In addition to lockers, some service counters offer luggage delivery within Japan, allowing you to send your suitcase directly to your hotel or next destination. If you are bringing large luggage onto the Shinkansen, be sure to familiarise yourself with the oversized baggage rules.
Restrooms and Accessibility Restrooms are located across all levels of Tokyo Station and are clearly marked in English. Most include accessible facilities, baby-changing areas, and multipurpose restrooms. Because the station is large, it is often easiest to use the nearest restroom before heading to your platform rather than searching once you are close to departure time.
Restaurants, Bento Shops, and Cafés Tokyo Station is well known for its food options. Near the Shinkansen entrances, you will find shops selling ekiben, boxed meals, like the picture below, designed for train travel. There are also sushi restaurants, ramen shops, cafés, and bakeries located both inside the ticket gates and in the underground shopping areas.
Buying food before boarding the Shinkansen is common, and many travelers treat this as part of the experience.
Shopping Areas Inside the Station Several large shopping zones are connected directly to Tokyo Station. Gransta, located inside the station, offers souvenirs, sweets, and travel goods. Tokyo Character Street and Tokyo Ramen Street in the underground areas are also popular with visitors.
These areas make it easy to pick up gifts, snacks, or travel essentials without leaving the station.
FAQ about Tokyo Station
Tokyo Station is large and busy, but it is well organized with clear bilingual signs in English and Japanese. If you follow signs for your train line rather than looking for a specific exit, navigating the station becomes much easier.
Most Shinkansen trains depart from Tokyo Station. The Tokaido Shinkansen toward Kyoto and Osaka leaves from the Yaesu side, while other Shinkansen lines have their own clearly marked areas within the station.
Arriving about 60 minutes before departure is usually enough time to get the ticket, pass through the gates, find your platform, and buy food or drinks. If you are utilizing a Japan Rail Pass, allowing extra time can help avoid stress.
Yes, coin lockers are available throughout the station in various sizes, including large ones for suitcases. Because they can fill up quickly during peak travel times, checking multiple locker areas or arriving early can improve your chances of finding one.
Yes. Tokyo Station is famous for its ekiben boxed meals, which are sold near Shinkansen entrances and inside the station. Many travelers buy food and drinks before boarding, as eating on the Shinkansen is common.
The station building itself is always accessible, but most ticket gates close after the last trains of the night. Shops and restaurants also operate on their own schedules, typically opening early in the morning and closing in the evening.
You can take the Narita Express (N’EX) directly from Tokyo Station to Narita Airport in about one hour. The train offers reserved seating and luggage space, making it convenient for airport transfers.
For the Tokaido Shinkansen toward Kyoto and Osaka, the Yaesu side is usually the most convenient. However, once inside the station, it is best to follow signs for your specific Shinkansen line rather than relying on the station exit alone.
Yes. Restrooms are available throughout the station and are clearly marked in English. Accessible facilities and baby-changing areas are also widely available.
Yes. Dedicated transfer gates connect local JR lines and Shinkansen areas. Allowing a little extra time for walking is helpful, as Tokyo Station is large and transfers may involve underground passageways.
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
