Tokyo Station Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Tokyo Station (東京駅, Tōkyō-eki) is not just the busiest railway hub in Japan but also one of the most important transit centers in the world. Located in the Marunouchi business district, adjacent to the Imperial Palace and just a short walk from Ginza, this station is a gateway to the entire country. Every day, over half a million passengers pass through, making it a bustling microcosm of Japanese travel culture, commerce, and history.

This guide covers everything you need to know: history, train lines, exits, shopping, dining, nearby attractions, and travel tips.

A Brief History of Tokyo Station

Tokyo Station first opened in 1914, designed by architect Tatsuno Kingo in a beautiful red-brick European style. Its Marunouchi facade, restored in 2012, is now a symbol of modern Tokyo fused with historic charm. The station was heavily damaged during World War II but later rebuilt, maintaining much of its original design.

Today, Tokyo Station is not only a functional transport hub but also a cultural landmark, often compared to other iconic stations like London’s King’s Cross or New York’s Grand Central Terminal.

Train Lines and Shinkansen Access

Tokyo Station is vast, serving both local and long-distance lines. Here are the main categories:

Shinkansen (Bullet Trains)

Tokyo Station is the primary terminal for most Shinkansen lines:

  • Tōkaidō Shinkansen (to Osaka, Kyoto, Nagoya)

  • Sanyō Shinkansen (connects through to Hiroshima, Hakata)

  • Tohoku Shinkansen (to Sendai, Morioka, Shin-Aomori)

  • Hokkaidō Shinkansen (via Shin-Aomori to Hakodate)

  • Jōetsu Shinkansen (to Niigata)

  • Hokuriku Shinkansen (to Nagano, Kanazawa, Toyama)

  • Yamagata & Akita Shinkansen (branch lines through Tohoku)

This makes Tokyo Station the starting point for high-speed travel across Japan.

JR Lines

  • Yamanote Line (Tokyo’s loop line)

  • Chūō Line (rapid service to Shinjuku, Takao, and west Tokyo)

  • Keihin-Tōhoku Line (to Yokohama, Saitama)

  • Sōbu Line Rapid & Yokosuka Line (to Chiba, Yokosuka)

  • Keiyō Line (to Maihama for Tokyo Disney Resort, Chiba coastal area)

Tokyo Metro

Connected underground:

  • Marunouchi Line (red line), convenient for Shinjuku, Ikebukuro, Ginza

Major Exits and Districts

Tokyo Station is a maze of exits, but they are grouped into major zones:

  • Marunouchi Side (West)

    • Historic red-brick facade

    • Access to Marunouchi business district and Imperial Palace

    • Tokyo Station Hotel

  • Yaesu Side (East)

    • Bus terminals, expressway buses

    • Yaesu underground shopping mall

    • Easier access to Nihonbashi

  • Nihonbashi Exit (North-East)

    • Access to financial district

    • Good for JR express buses

  • South Exits

    • Direct connection to Shinkansen gates

    • Access to Keiyō Line (important for Disney Resort travelers)

Tip: Always check which exit your hotel or destination is closest to, as walking inside Tokyo Station can take 10–15 minutes.

Shopping at Tokyo Station

Tokyo Station is a shopping paradise in itself.

1. Gransta

Located inside the station, Gransta is a massive underground shopping and dining complex. It features bento shops, sweets, character goods, and high-end fashion.

2. Tokyo Character Street

A must-visit for anime and character fans. You’ll find stores dedicated to Pokémon, Hello Kitty, Rilakkuma, and Studio Ghibli.

3. First Avenue Tokyo Station

A huge underground shopping street with local souvenirs, fashion, and lifestyle shops.

4. Daimaru Tokyo

A luxury department store directly connected to the Yaesu side of the station. Famous for its food hall (depachika) and high-end boutiques.

Dining Options

Food at Tokyo Station is as diverse as Tokyo itself.

Ramen Street

One of the most famous food areas is Tokyo Ramen Street, with around eight top ramen shops representing different regional flavors. Expect queues but also world-class ramen.

Ekiben (Train Lunch Boxes)

Tokyo Station is perhaps the best place in Japan to buy ekiben, boxed meals designed for Shinkansen journeys. Stores sell regional specialties from all over Japan.

Cafés and Casual Dining

Plenty of bakeries, coffee shops (like Tully’s, Starbucks, local chains), and Japanese izakaya-style restaurants can be found in Gransta and First Avenue.

Fine Dining

The Tokyo Station Hotel offers upscale dining with French, Italian, and Japanese cuisine.

Nearby Attractions

From Tokyo Station, you can easily explore some of Tokyo’s most iconic areas:

  1. Imperial Palace – Just a 10-minute walk west. The East Gardens are open to the public.

  2. Marunouchi District – A business and luxury shopping hub with modern skyscrapers and art installations.

  3. Nihonbashi – Historical commercial district, now home to Mitsukoshi and Takashimaya department stores.

  4. Ginza – A 15-minute walk or short train ride for high-end shopping, dining, and theaters.

  5. Yaesu Underground Mall – Great for quick shopping and local souvenirs.

Hotels Near Tokyo Station

If you need convenience, there are excellent hotels within and around the station:

  • Tokyo Station Hotel – Luxury heritage hotel inside the Marunouchi building.

  • Hotel Metropolitan Marunouchi – Modern high-rise with city views.

  • Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Marunouchi – Boutique luxury with excellent service.

  • APA Hotel Yaesu – Affordable and practical, right near Yaesu exits.

Travel Tips for Tokyo Station

  • Arrive Early for Shinkansen: The station is huge; allow at least 20–30 minutes to find your platform.

  • Use Coin Lockers: Available throughout the station; convenient for storing luggage while sightseeing.

  • Suica/PASMO Cards: Essential for seamless transfers between JR and Metro lines.

  • Navigation Apps: Google Maps and Japan Transit Planner are very helpful.

  • English Signage: The station has good English support, but be prepared for long walks underground.

Why Tokyo Station Matters

Tokyo Station is not just a train hub; it is the heart of Japan’s railway network, a historical building, and a lifestyle complex. Whether you are catching the Shinkansen to Kyoto, shopping for souvenirs, or dining before heading to Narita or Haneda Airport, Tokyo Station is both functional and cultural.

Conclusion

Tokyo Station can feel overwhelming at first, but with a bit of preparation, it becomes an exciting part of your Tokyo adventure. Its mix of history, modern design, transportation convenience, and shopping makes it one of the most important stops in Japan. Whether you are a commuter, tourist, or business traveler, Tokyo Station offers something for everyone.

FAQ:Tokyo Station Guide: Everything You Need to Know

What is Tokyo Station and why is it important?

Tokyo Station is the primary intercity rail hub of Japan, linking high-speed Shinkansen lines with JR commuter lines and the Tokyo Metro. It sits in the Marunouchi business district next to the Imperial Palace and within walking distance of Ginza. For travelers, it is both a gateway to nationwide destinations and a shopping and dining complex with hundreds of stores, restaurants, and services.

Which Shinkansen lines depart from Tokyo Station?

Most major bullet train routes start or pass through here, including the Tōkaidō (Kyoto, Osaka), Sanyō (Hiroshima, Hakata via transfer), Tōhoku (Sendai, Morioka, Shin-Aomori), Hokkaidō (via Shin-Aomori to Hakodate), Jōetsu (Niigata), Hokuriku (Nagano, Kanazawa), and the mini-shinkansen branches for Yamagata and Akita. Platforms are well signposted, and gates are clustered on the Yaesu and Marunouchi sides.

What local and regional lines can I use at Tokyo Station?

Key JR lines include the Yamanote Line loop, Chūō Line Rapid (west to Shinjuku and Takao), Keihin-Tōhoku (north to Saitama, south to Yokohama), Sōbu Rapid/Yokosuka (east to Chiba, south to Yokosuka), and the Keiyō Line (to Maihama for Tokyo Disney Resort). The Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line connects underground to Ginza, Shinjuku, and Ikebukuro.

How do I choose the correct exit (Marunouchi vs. Yaesu)?

Use the Marunouchi side (west) for the historic red-brick facade, the Imperial Palace, Marunouchi offices, and the Tokyo Station Hotel. Choose the Yaesu side (east) for expressway buses, taxi ranks, and direct access to the Yaesu underground shopping areas and Daimaru department store. If you are meeting someone, agree on a side and a specific landmark (e.g., Marunouchi Central Exit dome) to avoid confusion.

How early should I arrive for a Shinkansen?

Arrive 20–30 minutes before departure if you already hold tickets and know your platform. If you still need to buy tickets, select seats, or pick up rail passes, plan 45–60 minutes to handle queues and wayfinding. Trains depart exactly on time; gates typically close shortly before departure, and platforms can be several minutes’ walk from the main concourse.

Can I use a Japan Rail Pass at Tokyo Station?

Yes. Exchange or activate your JR Pass at designated JR East service centers or ticket offices within the station. After activation, you can reserve Shinkansen seats at Midori-no-Madoguchi counters or via machines that support the pass. Always carry your passport when using a JR Pass, and allow extra time for lines during peak travel seasons.

Where do I buy or pick up Shinkansen tickets?

Use JR ticket counters (Midori-no-Madoguchi) or automated machines. Many machines offer English menus and accept international cards. If you purchased tickets online, follow the instructions to collect them—typically by entering a pickup code and the same card used for payment. Keep tickets handy for both the Shinkansen gate and the platform exit at your destination.

Is there luggage storage or a baggage delivery service?

Coin lockers of various sizes are distributed across the station, and manned luggage storage counters operate on both sides. Large lockers fill quickly on weekends and holidays. Consider same-day or next-day delivery services (takkyūbin) to send bags to hotels or airports, freeing you to move through the station and city hands-free.

What are the best food options inside the station?

Tokyo Station is a food paradise. Grab an ekiben (boxed meal) for your train, sample regional ramen at Tokyo Ramen Street, and browse depachika-level sweets, bakeries, and delicatessens in Gransta. You will also find cafés for quick breakfasts, izakaya for casual dinners, and fine dining inside the Tokyo Station Hotel if you want an elegant experience.

Where can I shop for souvenirs and character goods?

Head to First Avenue Tokyo Station for wide-ranging souvenirs and Tokyo Character Street for dedicated shops like Pokémon and other popular brands. Daimaru Tokyo (Yaesu side) offers upscale fashion and an excellent food hall. Many shops are inside ticketed areas, so finish shopping before exiting if you plan to transfer immediately.

How do I get to Tokyo Disney Resort from Tokyo Station?

Take the JR Keiyō Line from the deep-level Keiyō platforms to Maihama Station. Allow time: reaching these platforms can take 10–15 minutes of walking via long underground corridors. Trains run frequently, and the ride is about 15–20 minutes. From Maihama, follow signs to Disneyland or transfer to the Disney Resort Line monorail for DisneySea.

What nearby attractions can I walk to from Tokyo Station?

The Imperial Palace East Gardens are about 10 minutes on foot from the Marunouchi side. Marunouchi itself is lined with contemporary architecture, public art, and premium boutiques. Nihonbashi’s historic department stores are close to the Yaesu side, and Ginza is a pleasant 15–20 minute stroll or one stop on the Metro for luxury shopping and dining.

Are there hotels connected to or near Tokyo Station?

For maximum convenience, consider the Tokyo Station Hotel (heritage luxury) within the Marunouchi building. Nearby options include Hotel Metropolitan Marunouchi (modern views), Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Marunouchi (boutique luxury), and practical business hotels around Yaesu. Booking early is wise, as rooms near the station are in steady demand.

What tickets or IC cards should I use for local travel?

For seamless transfers on JR and subways, use a rechargeable IC card like Suica or PASMO. Tap in and out at gates, and recharge at machines or convenience stores. Paper tickets are fine for one-off trips, but IC cards save time. For airport transfers, consider dedicated train tickets (e.g., Narita Express) purchased separately.

How do I navigate such a large station without getting lost?

Follow the color-coded signage and match line names, platform numbers, and exit names. Check the side (Marunouchi or Yaesu) first, then the specific gate (e.g., North, Central, South). Use wayfinding apps and allow buffer time for long underground passages. If unsure, ask station staff; most counters provide English assistance.

Is Tokyo Station accessible for travelers with strollers or wheelchairs?

Yes. The station provides elevators, wide gates, and accessible restrooms. Platform staff can deploy portable ramps for train boarding when needed. Deep-level platforms like the Keiyō Line have long corridors; plan extra time and use elevators where indicated. You can also request assistance at service counters in advance of your departure.

Where can I find ATMs, currency exchange, and SIM/eSIM support?

International ATMs are available in convenience stores and bank branches within or adjacent to the station. Currency exchange counters are typically on the Yaesu side and in major department stores. For connectivity, look for electronics shops and travel counters selling SIMs; eSIM activation is increasingly common through apps—set it up before arrival when possible.

Are there tax-free shopping options and what documents do I need?

Many retailers in and around Tokyo Station offer tax-free purchases for visitors. Bring your passport, meet the minimum purchase amount per store, and follow the shop’s procedures (some attach documentation to your passport; keep it until departure). Tax-free counters can get busy, so factor in processing time.

What are typical operating hours for shops and restaurants?

Hours vary by zone. Many convenience stores open early and close late, while department stores and specialty shops generally run from late morning to evening. Restaurants in Gransta and First Avenue often open for breakfast and stay open through dinner. Confirm last orders if you arrive near closing time, especially on Sundays and holidays.

Any safety and etiquette tips for first-time visitors?

Keep right on escalators unless local signs indicate otherwise, queue neatly for trains, and let passengers alight before boarding. Mind your luggage in crowded areas and avoid blocking gates or ticket machines. Eating is common on Shinkansen but less so on local trains; keep noise low and dispose of trash in designated bins.

What should I do if I miss my Shinkansen?

Go directly to the ticket counter to discuss rebooking options. With unreserved tickets, you can often board the next unreserved car on the same day. Reserved-seat rebookings depend on availability and fare rules. If you are on a tight schedule, ask staff to propose the fastest alternative route to your destination.

How do I transfer between JR and Tokyo Metro at Tokyo Station?

Follow signs to the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line. Exiting the JR gates may be required; IC cards make re-entry quick. Pay attention to transfer gates and passageways to avoid unnecessary detours. If you are carrying heavy luggage, look for elevators and wider accessible gates.

Can I find quiet spaces, lounges, or work areas?

Yes. The Tokyo Station Hotel provides lounges for guests, and select cafés offer power outlets and relatively calm seating outside rush hours. Some coworking lounges near the station sell day passes. If you need privacy, consider booking a nearby hotel day-use plan or a private booth service in commercial buildings.

What’s the best way to plan a smooth departure day?

Pack the night before, check your platform number in the morning, and buy food and drinks ahead of time. Arrive early to navigate to the correct Shinkansen gate, especially if your platform is far from your entry point. Keep your tickets, IC card, and passport accessible, and use luggage delivery or storage to travel light through the concourses.

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