JR Hokuriku Shinkansen Guide: Routes, Tickets, and Travel Tips
Hokuriku Shinkansen Overview
The Hokuriku Shinkansen connects Tokyo with Nagano, Toyama, Kanazawa, and since March 2024, extends to Tsuruga in Fukui Prefecture.
Known for its alpine landscapes and cultural heritage towns, it is among the most scenic bullet train routes in Japan.
In this section, we explore the route, the trains in service, and what sets this line apart.
Route & Stations: Tokyo to Kanazawa and Tsuruga
Starting at Tokyo Station, the line passes through Omiya, Takasaki, Nagano, Toyama, and Kanazawa before continuing to Tsuruga.
This extension brought direct Shinkansen access to Fukui Prefecture and improved connections to Kansai.
Key stations:
- Nagano: access to Zenkoji Temple and the Snow Monkey Park.
- Toyama: gateway to the Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route.
- Kanazawa: celebrated for Kenrokuen Garden, samurai districts, and gold leaf crafts.
- Tsuruga: new terminus, opening up Wakasa Bay and cultural links to Kansai.
Rolling Stock: E7 and W7 Series
The Hokuriku Shinkansen is operated exclusively by E7 (JR East) and W7 (JR West) series trains.
They reach speeds of 260 km/h, offering Standard, Green Car, and Gran Class seating.
Interiors showcase Hokuriku-inspired design, blending functionality with regional aesthetics.
Uniform fleet deployment means consistent facilities across trains: power outlets at all seats, Wi-Fi, and smooth ride quality with advanced suspension.
Onboard Comfort & Scenic Highlights
Standard class uses 2+3 seating, Green Car 2+2, and Gran Class 2+1 with luxury seating and attentive service.
Gran Class meals often feature Hokuriku ingredients, adding a regional touch to the journey.
The line is famous for its scenery: Japan Alps views, rural rice fields, and near Kanazawa and Tsuruga, glimpses of the Sea of Japan.
Seasonal contrasts—snowy winters, cherry blossoms, and vibrant autumn colors—make the ride dynamic year-round.
Hokuriku Shinkansen tickets & schedule
Travelers must understand service categories, reservation rules, and baggage policies to ride smoothly.
This section highlights the essentials.
Service Types: Kagayaki, Hakutaka, Tsurugi, Asama
- Kagayaki
fastest service, limited stops Tokyo–Kanazawa/Tsuruga. Travel time: about 2h25–2h28 to Kanazawa, about 3h08 to Tsuruga. - Hakutaka
semi-fast, more stops; Tokyo–Kanazawa in ~3h, Tokyo–Tsuruga in ~3h52. - Tsurugi
operates mainly as a shuttle between Toyama and Tsuruga, connecting cities along the extension. - Asama
Tokyo–Nagano only, used by regional travelers and visitors to Snow Monkeys or winter sports areas.
JR Pass Coverage, Regional Passes & 2025 Fare Updates
The Japan Rail Pass covers all Hokuriku Shinkansen services.
Gran Class requires a supplemental fee.
Regional travelers can use the Hokuriku Arch Pass, which links Tokyo through Hokuriku to Kansai, covering both Shinkansen and local lines.
Fares were revised in 2025 with slight increases, but JR passes remain cost-effective for multi-city trips.
Seat Reservations, Luggage Rules & Online Booking
- Kagayaki is all-reserved: every seat requires prior booking.
- Hakutaka and Asama trains include some non-reserved cars, but availability varies and these fill quickly on weekends.
For oversized luggage (over 160 cm total dimensions), note:
the mandatory “oversized baggage seat” system applies only to Tokaido, Sanyo, and Kyushu Shinkansen.
On the Hokuriku Shinkansen, there are no designated oversized baggage seats.
Large items must be stored in luggage racks or spaces near doors, or placed behind the last row.
Always follow JR East/JR West staff guidance.
Reservations can be made online via JR East and JR West’s English-language platforms.
Practical Tips for Hokuriku Shinkansen Travelers
The Hokuriku Shinkansen is not just about transport.
It’s an entry point to alpine landscapes and coastal heritage.
To maximize your trip, consider these tips.
Best Times to Travel & Seat Side for Views
Trains run every 30–60 minutes.
Midday trains are less crowded, while holidays and weekends see high demand.
Seat tips:
- Northbound right side: views of the Japan Alps.
- Southbound left side: landscapes of coastal plains near Kanazawa and Tsuruga.
- Window seats are recommended for photography, especially in winter and spring.
Station Facilities & Accessibility
Nagano Station features multilingual tourist information and direct buses to Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park.
Kanazawa Station, famous for its Tsuzumi Gate, has extensive shopping and cultural spaces.
Tsuruga Station has been upgraded with new Shinkansen platforms, elevators, and improved signage for international travelers.
Accessibility across the line includes barrier-free platforms, elevators, tactile paving, and accessible restrooms.
Wi-Fi is widely available, though signals can weaken in tunnels.
Sightseeing & Local Culture Along the Route
- Nagano
Zenkoji Temple, Snow Monkeys, winter resorts. - Toyama
fresh seafood, glass art, Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route. - Kanazawa
Kenrokuen Garden, samurai districts, 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art. - Tsuruga
port town culture, seafood markets, and link to Wakasa Bay attractions.
The Hokuriku Shinkansen provides a balanced itinerary of city culture, mountain adventure, and seaside relaxation.
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FAQ About the Joetsu Shinkansen
- How long does Tokyo–Kanazawa take on the Hokuriku Shinkansen?
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Fastest Kagayaki services take about 2h25–2h28.
- How long does Tokyo–Tsuruga take?
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Fastest Kagayaki services take about 3h08; Hakutaka services take around 3h52.
- Is the Hokuriku Shinkansen covered by the JR Pass?
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Yes, all services are included. Gran Class requires an additional fee.
- What’s the difference between Kagayaki and Hakutaka?
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Kagayaki is all-reserved and fastest with limited stops. Hakutaka makes more stops and is slower but often has non-reserved cars.
- Do I need a seat reservation?
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Yes for Kagayaki. Non-reserved seating is available only on some Hakutaka and Asama trains.
- Can I bring oversized luggage?
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Yes, but unlike Tokaido/Sanyo/Kyushu lines, Hokuriku has no “oversized baggage seat” system. Use onboard luggage racks or spaces behind seats.
- When did the extension to Tsuruga open?
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In March 2024, adding direct access to Fukui Prefecture.
Final Thoughts on the Hokuriku Shinkansen
The Hokuriku Shinkansen is more than just a high-speed connection.
It is a cultural and scenic experience. With state-of-the-art E7/W7 trains, Gran Class comfort, and the extension to Tsuruga in 2024, the line brings Tokyo closer to alpine and coastal Japan.
Whether exploring Kanazawa’s heritage, Toyama’s mountains, or Fukui’s seaside, the Hokuriku Shinkansen offers efficiency and discovery in equal measure.
＞＞＞Check Hokuriku Shinkansen Official Website