Hokuriku Shinkansen: Route and Key Stops
Hokuriku is a region in Japan’s main island consisting of five prefectures — Nagano, Niigata, Toyama, Fukui, and Ishikawa. The Hokuriku region includes diverse geographical landscapes with attractions ranging from historical sites, cultural experiences, and local cuisine to seasonal highlights like snow sports in winter and cherry blossom viewing in spring.
If you’re traveling from Tokyo to Hokuriku, you’ll likely be taking the Hokuriku Shinkansen.
This article covers everything you need to know about the Hokuriku Shinkansen, including its route, major cities it stops at, new updates to the train line and whether you can use the JR Pass. Not sure what Hokuriku region has to offer? Read to the end to find out about some of the best things to do in Hokuriku!
What is the Hokuriku Shinkansen?
The Hokuriku Shinkansen is a bullet train line that links Tokyo with Tsuruga in Fukui prefecture, significantly reducing travel time and enhancing connectivity between Tokyo and the Hokuriku region. It extends 240km away from Tokyo!
First opened in 1997 to link Tokyo to Nagano for the Nagano Winter Olympics, the Hokuriku Shinkansen line was extended to Kanazawa in 2015 and has become an efficient and fast transportation bridge from Tokyo to Kanazawa, as well as connecting several major cities such as Nagano and Toyama.
It has a maximum operating speed of 260km/h and is operated by West Japan Railway Company (JR West) and East Japan Railway Company (JR East).
Hokuriku Shinkansen extension project in 2024
Credit: East Japan Railway Company
The Hokuriku Shinkansen was further expanded in March 2024 to include the Kanazawa-Tsuruga section! The opening of this new section marks a major step forward for the Hokuriku Shinkansen, as the Fukui, Ishikawa, and Nagano are now directly connected to Tokyo via this line.
The new route is approximately 125 kilometers long and includes six new stations:
- Komatsu Station
- Kaga Onsen Station
- Awara Onsen Station
- Fukui Station
- Echizen-Takefu Station
- Tsuruga Station
This new Hokuriku Shinkansen extension means that the fastest journey from Tokyo to Tsuruga is reduced to 3 hours and 8 minutes, while the fastest journey to Fukui is 2 hours and 51 minutes.
Types of trains on the Hokuriku Shinkansen line
Credit: West Japan Railway Company
Four train types operate on the Hokuriku Shinkansen line — Kagayaki, Hakutaka, Asama, and Tsurugi. They differ in their stops and the types of seating classes (Ordinary Car, Green Car, Gran Car) available!
Kagayaki trains are the fastest, stopping only at major stations between Tokyo and Tsuruga. This service runs only in the mornings and evenings. Kagayaki is one of the few Shinkansen trains without non-reserved seating; you need a seat reservation to take this train! When all seats are booked out, standing tickets can be purchased. It also includes a Gran Class car, JR’s first class service.
Hakutaka trains also run from Tokyo to Tsuraga but stop at more stations than the Kagayaki. Non-reserved tickets are available.
Asama trains only run from Tokyo to Nagano; the original Hokuriku Shinkansen line! It’s named after Mt. Asama, a large active volcano between Gunma and Nagano prefectures. Non-reserved tickets are available.
Lastly, Tsurugi trains cover just a handful of stations between Tsuruga and Toyama stations. Non-reserved tickets are available.
Which rail passes cover the Hokuriku Shinkansen?
JR Takayama-Hokuriku Area Tourist Pass
For those visiting: Kanazawa, Toyama, Nagoya, Osaka
Validity: 5 consecutive days
The JR Takayama-Hokuriku Area Tourist Pass offers visitors a great opportunity to explore the Hokuriku region and surrounding areas. It includes unlimited travel on JR local and limited express trains, buses and the Hokuriku Shinkansen for 5 consecutive days.
You can also use the Takayama-Hokuriku Pass to take a couple of additional bus routes — the Nohi Bus and the Kaituno Bus, which go from Kanazawa, Takayama and Shintakaoka stations to the scenic Shirakawa-go. Flexible and convenient, the Takayama Hokuriku JR Pass is the perfect choice for visitors who wish to explore Japan's rich cultural heritage in depth!
JR Hokuriku Arch JR Pass
For those visiting: Tokyo, Nagano, Karuizawa, Kanazawa, Toyama, Kobe, Kyoto, Osaka
Validity: 7 consecutive days
Another good option is the JR Hokuriku Arch Pass. This pass covers areas from both the Japan Rail East and Japan Rail West regions, including Tokyo, Karuizawa, Toyama, Kyoto, and Osaka. You'll enjoy unlimited access to researved and non-reserved seats in the ordinary car on the Hokuriku Shinkansen (Tokyo to Kanazawa).
It even covers the major airport train lines from the largest and nearest airport in Japan, JR Haruka Airport Express from Kansai Airport (KIX) to Osaka, the JR Narita Express from Narita Airport (NRT) to Tokyo, and the Toyko Monorail from Haneda Airport (HND) to Tokyo.
Furthermore, limited express, express, special rapid service, rapid service, local service trains, and Tokyo Monorail lines within the area are all included in JR Hokuriku Arch Pass!
JR East Nagano Niigata Area Pass
For those visiting: Tokyo, Niigata, Karuizawa, Nagano
Validity: 5 consecutive days
The JR East Nagano Niigata Area Pass includes unlimited train rides in specified areas between Tokyo, Niigata and Nagano. It covers the Tohoku Shinkansen, Yamagata Shinkansen, Jõetsu Shinkansen, and Hokuriku Shinkansen, unlimited JR bus rides (in specified areas) and other train lines like the Tokyo Monorail, Izu Kyuko Line, Hokuetsu Express and Echigo Tokimeki Railway.
JR Point-to-Point Tickets
Planning to take the Hokuriku Shinkansen to just one or two stops? It might be more worth it to buy a single point-to-point ticket instead of purchasing a JR Pass. Simply enter your departure and destination points, plus intended date of travel to see the available train timings!
Remember to take note of the type of train (Kagayaki, Hakutaka, Asama or Tsurugi) when booking your train tickets.
Things to do in the Hokuriku Region
For those hoping for a different side to Japan beyond Tokyo and Osaka’s bustling streets, the Hokuriku region has plenty of unique attractions and landmarks, including the serene hot springs in Awara Onsen and Kaga Onsen.
Many of these attractions, like the Kenrokuen Garden (one of Japan’s top three gardens) and historic villages such as Shirakawa-go, can be reached in just a few half hours from Tokyo via the Hokuriku Shinkansen, emphasizing the convenience and speed of travel.
Things to do in Kanazawa (Ishikawa Prefecture)
Often called "Little Kyoto," Kanazawa is a city full of history, culture, and natural beauty. It is a place where tradition meets modernity, with a wealth of sightseeing spots and events.
1. Kenrokuen
One of Kanazawa's most iconic attractions is Kenrokuen Garden, a well-kept garden that is considered one of the three most beautiful gardens in Japan. Stroll along the winding paths, admire the seasonal blooms, and soak up the serene atmosphere.
2. Nagamachi Samurai District
Travel back in time and explore the quiet and historic charm of the Nagamachi Samurai Quarter. Here you can stroll through the well-preserved samurai houses and learn more about the lives of these ancient warriors.
3. Higashi Chaya Neighborhood
Kanazawa is also home to a charming geisha district, with the Higashi Chaya being one of the most famous areas. Traditional tea houses line the streets, where you can sip an aromatic cup of matcha while experiencing the elegance and artistry of Edo period geisha culture.
4. Kanazawa Castle
Kanazawa Castle is a must-see historical site in Kanazawa. Although the original castle was destroyed by fire, it has been rebuilt and restored. You can also explore the surrounding park area and enjoy the panoramic view of Kanazawa from the observation tower.
5. Omi Town Market
If you want to taste the local delicacies of Kanazawa, I recommend you to visit Omi Town Market. At Omi Town Market, you can enjoy fresh seafood, traditional Japanese desserts and local Kanazawa delicacies, and don't forget to have a bowl of Kanazawa's famous seafood rice bowl!
6. Myouryuji (Ninja Temple)
Credit: Visit Kanazawa
Known as a ninja temple, Myouryuji Temple is a unique and mysterious attraction in Kanazawa. Although it is not a training ground for ninjas, the temple is famous for its cleverly designed defense structure. Here you can explore hidden passages, secret rooms, trapdoors, and labyrinth-like corridors, all carefully designed to disrupt intruders and protect the temple's inhabitants!
Things to do in Toyama (Toyama Prefecture)
Located on the coast of the Sea of Japan, Toyama is a city full of natural beauty and cultural heritage. From picturesque landscapes to fascinating museums, every part of Toyama has something to offer travelers!
1. Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route
Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route
Want an unforgettable adventure? Try the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, a picturesque journey through the Japanese Alps, with spectacular snow walls and pristine alpine scenery along the way!
2. Kurobe Gorge Railroad
Photo courtesy of Kurobe Gorge Railway
The Kurobe Gorge Railway is another gem in the Toyama area, and you'll have the chance to ride this picturesque railroad through a winding gorge. If you visit in the fall, you can enjoy the gorgeous autumn foliage.
3. Toyama Castle
Toyama Castle, also known as Azumi Castle, is a historical building. Although the original castle no longer exists, you can relax by strolling through the park surrounding the castle and admiring the huge moat.
Things to do in Karuizawa (Nagano Prefecture)
Karuizawa is a charming town situated in the Japanese Alps. Famous for its cool climate, flourishing greenery, and a wide variety of leisure activities, Karuizawa is a favorite destination for both Japanese and tourists.
1. Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza
Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza is a must-see for visitors who love shopping. This outdoor outlet mall is located right beside Karuizawa Station and offers a wide range of international and Japanese brands.
2. Hoshino Hot Springs
Photo courtesy of Karuizawa Hoshino Area
You can also relax at Hoshino Onsen, just 30 minutes from Karuizawa Station, a traditional Japanese hot spring offering therapeutic mineral baths that help to soothe the body and mind.
3. Karuizawa Prince Hotel & Ski Resort
In winter, Karuizawa is transformed into a snowy wonderland. Karuizawa Prince Hotel Ski Resort provides excellent ski venues and various ski-related services for skiers of different levels.
Discover Hokuriku Region in Japan
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