You’ve already uncovered Tokyo’s treasures — its captivating temples, vibrant nightlife, iconic spots like the Shibuya Crossing, and even indulged in the age-old art of tea making. Now, it’s time to shift your gaze to the heart of Japan’s Aichi Prefecture — Nagoya, a metropolis renowned for its port hub and pivotal role in Chubu’s transportation network.
Kids and adults alike are in for a treat with attractions like Nagoya Castle, Atsuta Shrine, the Railway Museum, Osu Kannon Temple, the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology, plus Japan's only Ghibli Park!
Fasten your seatbelts or recline your train seats as we explore travel options that connect these two captivating cities!
Transport Options from Tokyo to Nagoya
There are many ways to begin your journey. It can be with the iconic bullet train that seems to fly past landscapes, the scenic and leisurely route that local trains provide, air flights that keep the skies busy, or the thrill and freedom of crafting your own adventure by car.
With all these choices that suit every budget, you’re spoiled for ways to travel the Tokyo-Nagoya route quickly. The Nagoya cost for a Shinkansen ticket from Tokyo to Nagoya is competitive, with options for round-trip tickets and discounts available for this route.
And while the Shinkansen is a default choice for many, there are other exciting options for you to reach your destination.
1. Bullet train (Shinkansen) on the Tokaido Shinkansen Line
Zip through Japan in style! Credit: David Dibert on Pexels
No one can deny that the most straightforward and most convenient way to reach Nagoya is by hopping on the Shinkansen bullet train. It operates on a fixed timetable, with daily departures and arrival times strictly followed.
Travel times can depend on the type of Shinkansen you’ll be taking and the number of stops.
- Nozomi trains, the fastest service on the Tōkaidō Shinkansen, will get you to Nagoya station in 1 hour and 40 minutes.
- On the other hand, Hikari trains can take you to Nagoya Station in just over 2 hours or less.
- The Kodama train, the slowest service on the Tōkaidō Shinkansen, will get you from Tokyo station to Nagoya station in approximately 3 hours.
- You should take into consideration that you’ll be restricted to Hikari and slower services if you’re travelling on a Japan Rail Pass.
The Shinkansen train offers different classes and seat types to cater to various preferences and budgets.
Booking Shinkansen train tickets in advance is highly recommended due to the popularity of the route.
The Tokaido Shinkansen line, one of the 9 Shinkansen lines in Japan, connects Tokyo station, Kyoto station, and Osaka station. It also links to the Sanyo Shinkansen line, providing extensive travel options.
There are two options available on the Shinkansen:
Green Car
This is what everyone can call first-class train cars. You can enjoy a more spacious experience in the Green Car as it comes with wider seats, added legroom, and deeper reclining features.
It’s worth noting that ticket prices do come at a premium compared to the Ordinary Car seats, usually costing around 1.5 to 2 times more than the regular fare. With premium price comes premium service: You are offered great onboard amenities and service, with attendants offering drinks and light snacks.
Ordinary Car
This is the standard seating option and is the most popular choice for locals and travelers alike.
Don’t worry if you’re traveling with family or friends, Ordinary Cars come with seating arrangements and tables specifically made for groups. You can also cool off with the air conditioning on these trains.
Some Shinkansen services offer non-reserved seats, but it’s on a first-come, first-served basis. If you weren’t able to book train tickets, there’s a high chance of seating arrangements not being available when you hop on the train.
Train tickets can be purchased at ticket counters at major train stations, ticket machines, or online.
- In peak season, a regular one-way trip costs about AUD121.16. You can opt for non-reserved seating if you’re trying to save money, but there is a risk of standing the whole way.
- We recommend you book a reserved seat if you don’t like being on your feet for that long, or you’re travelling with kids and have tons of luggage.
How to Redeem Your Shinkansen Tickets
QR Code Boarding Available for Selected Shinkansen Routes
If you're traveling between Tokyo and Kagoshima-Chuo on the Shinkansen, you can board the train directly via QR code after booking your tickets on Klook! There's no need to redeem a physical ticket at the train station.
QR Code boarding is available for these routes:
- Tokaido Shinkansen (Tokyo to Shin-Osaka)
- Sanyo Shinkansen (Shin-Osaka to Hakata)
- Kyushu Shinkansen (Hakata to Kagoshima-Chuo)
Can I bring luggage on the bullet train?
If you have a lot of luggage, you might want to use a luggage delivery service. It's worth remembering that if your luggage's total dimensions are over 160cm but under 250cm, you'll need to make special reservations (which are covered by your JR Pass).
For bags under 160cm, you can store these on the overhead racks, provided that they fit and there's available space.
2. Local trains
Take it slow and easy with Japan's reliable local trains. Credit: Ricky LK on Unsplash
If you’d rather take the scenic route — or you’re just in love with train rides — you can take it slow and easy with regular JR lines. In this case, you’ll be taking the JR Tokaido Main Line.
A single journey from Tokyo station to Nagoya station using local trains may take you up to 6 hours of total travel time. Since there is no direct train route, you’ll need to make about 3 transfers.
When planning your train ride, you have the option to choose between standalone train tickets and a Japan Rail Pass, depending on your travel needs and duration.
You can make the most of your Tokyo-Nagoya journey with JR Passes for unlimited rides on JR trains, available for durations of 7, 14, or 21 days! You can buy these passes online, so you can focus on enjoying inter-city trips.
3. Domestic flights
Fly through the skies and reach Nagoya earlier. Credit: Jida Li on Unsplash
If you'd rather take to the skies, there are also flights from Tokyo to Nagoya that you can take. Zoom between these two cities in just over 1 hour, thanks to budget-friendly Japan Airlines flights serving this route!
While it may be an experience traveling on the Shinkansen, you can spice up your touring options and experience Japanese hospitality on airplanes.
However, keep in mind that despite swift flights, you should consider airport transfer timings, going through security checks, and the check-in process at the airport.
Additionally, last-minute bookings can lead to considerably high ticket costs.
For this option, you can take flights from either Narita Airport or Haneda Airport to the Chūbu Centrair International Airport. A one-way ticket starts from ¥11,100.
4. Highway bus
Take the bus and enjoy all the beauty Japan has to offer. Credit: @haratake0873 on Instagram
If you’re looking for the cheapest way to travel, you can consider taking the bus. A one-way ticket starts at about ¥2,300!
However, it’s important to remember that taking highway buses means you’ll be traveling longer, spanning about 6 to 8 hours. This might not be ideal for families with children.
Most of the buses also depart Tokyo during the late evening hours and arrive in Nagoya by dawn. This schedule can help you save on accommodation costs and optimize your time, particularly if you're aiming to maximize your trip.
Nevertheless, it’s also possible to secure daytime bus bookings if that suits your preference.
5. Rent a car
Create your own itinerary and explore the roads to Nagoya! Credit: Tobi on Unsplash
Looking for a travel experience that's uniquely yours? Consider renting a car! With your own wheels, you can set your own pace and discover hidden treasures as you journey from one city to the other.
The travel time between Tokyo and Nagoya can vary, spanning from 3 to 6 hours depending on the route and traffic conditions. Don’t forget to factor in your comfort for longer stretches. Having a second driver can be a game-changer!
Remember to book your car rental online in advance to compare prices, vehicle options, and services, ensuring a seamless experience.
And before you hit the road, make sure you’ve got these essentials with you:
- Driver's licence
- Credit card
- Valid ID
- Printed voucher
As you shift your focus from the bustling treasures of Tokyo to the heart of Aichi Prefecture, Nagoya awaits with its rich array of attractions and transport options.
From the lightning-fast Shinkansen bullet train to the leisurely local train rides that reveal the scenic beauty of Japan, and even the convenience of domestic flights, there's a choice for every traveler.
For those seeking budget-friendly options, highway buses and the adventure of a rented car present exciting possibilities.
Now that you've got the inside scoop on saving money while using Tokyo’s trains and exploring the nearby Nagoya area, it’s time to get excited and plan your trip to Japan!
🇯🇵 Nagoya Travel Essentials 🇯🇵
Top things to do in Nagoya
- Attractions: Ghibli Park | LEGOLAND Japan
- Visiting multiple attractions in Tokyo? Get the Klook Pass Nagoya and enjoy up to 39% savings!
Getting around
- Airport transfer: Meitetsu Chubu Centrair Airport Express | Car charter
- Train: Kintetsu Rail Pass
Stay connected with our Japan 4G eSIM and find the best places to stay in Nagoya — plus exclusive hotel promos and bundle deals!
More Japan Inspiration
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Written by: Russell Tan
