The Ultimate Travel Guide to Visiting Tokyo Station

Discover everything there is to know about this bustling transport hub.

Tokyo Station is one of the city’s most important destinations, serving a mind-boggling 500,000 daily visitors traveling on 4,000 trains. With this sprawling Japanese train station operating as a crucial waypoint for numerous metro and regional railways, you’re almost certain to use this transport hub during your visit to Tokyo. 

However, like many train stations in Japan, Tokyo Station is more than just a destination for commuters. It also features world-class shopping boutiques and eateries, while many of Tokyo’s must-see attractions are just a short walk away. To help you get to know this place like the back of your hand, we’ve put together this helpful Tokyo Station travel guide.

A brief history of Tokyo Station

Designed by lauded Japanese architect Kingo Tatsuno, Tokyo Station opened in 1914 with four platforms. Inspired by his studies in England and travels throughout Europe, Tatsuno brought much of this experience into his work, with the red-brick Tokyo Station Marunouchi Building remaining one of the city’s most impressive architectural landmarks.

Although much of Tokyo Station was damaged during the Great Kantō earthquake in 1923 and bombings throughout World War II, this incredibly durable section of the building held strong. Having undergone an extensive restoration completed in 2012, the Marunouchi facade of Tokyo Station remains an iconic attribute. Here, you’ll also find the four-star Tokyo Station Hotel – perfect for those who need somewhere elegant to rest before an early morning departure.

Tokyo train station now offers 28 platforms heading in every direction across Japan. Meanwhile, Tokyo Station is directly connected via underground walkways to massive shopping malls, ensuring travelers can explore dozens of shops and restaurants during their stay.

Everything you need to know about Tokyo Station

The sheer scale of Tokyo Station might seem intimidating, but it’s actually relatively simple once you get to know the place. Whether you’re commuting through this hub after arriving at the airport or making your way to a distant city, the following information should help you navigate this fascinating train station with ease.

How to get around Tokyo Station

There are two main entrance/exit areas to Tokyo Station. On the east side of the building is the Yaesu Exit, with the ground floor offering the Yaesu North Exit, the Yaesu Central Exit, and the Yaesu South Exit. In addition, the basement floor also has the Yaesu Underground Central Exit leading into the shopping mall.

On the west side of Tokyo Station is the Marunouchi Exit. The ground floor includes the Marunouchi North Exit, the Marunouchi Central Exit, and the Marunouchi South Exit. The basement floor offers another three exits: Marunouchi Underground North Exit, the Marunouchi Underground Central Exit, and Marunouchi Underground South Exit. 

If you need to catch a Bullet train, known as a Shinkansen, it’s best to enter Tokyo Station from the Yaesu side. You can also find the JR Expressway Bus Terminal close to the Yaesu South Exit, while the bus service to Narita Airport departs from the Nihonbashi Exit via the Yaesu Exit. If you ever get lost, simply ask for directions at a ticket gate or information booth.

Tokyo Station train lines

Tokyo Station is a blur of movement and people at the best of times. But finding the train line you need to catch is simple due to color-coded paths highlighting your route through the station. And there are many Tokyo rail maps posted throughout the station to help you plan your travel routes. The train lines include:

JR East: 
• Tōhoku Shinkansen
• Yamagata Shinkansen
• Akita Shinkansen
• Jōetsu Shinkansen
• Hokuriku Shinkansen
• Hokkaido Shinkansen
• Tōkaidō Main Line
• Ueno–Tokyo Line
• Keihin–Tōhoku Line
• Yamanote Line
• Chūō Main Line
• Sōbu Main Line (includes Narita Express)
• Yokosuka Line (includes Narita Express)
• Keiyō Line

JR Central:
• Tōkaidō Shinkansen

Tokyo Metro: 
• Marunouchi Line

How to get to Narita Airport from Tokyo Station

Getting to Narita Airport from Tokyo Station is remarkably straightforward. Taking less than an hour to reach your destination, you can catch the Narita Express (N'EX) from the fifth basement floor alongside the Sōbu and Yokosuka line platforms. For the quickest access, use the Marunouchi Central Exit and follow the signs.

There are also convenient buses headed to Narita Airport from Tokyo Station. The Access Narita Bus departs from platforms 7 and 8 at the JR Expressway Bus Terminal, positioned close to the Yaesu South Exit. Like the Narita Express, this comfortable journey to Narita Airport takes about one hour.

How to get to Haneda Airport from Tokyo Station

Tokyo Station also offers convenient transport connections for travelers departing from Haneda Airport. With the entire journey taking about 20 minutes, simply take a JR Yamanote or JR Keihin-Tohoku Line train to Hamamatsucho Station. Then, change to the Tokyo Monorail to reach Haneda Airport.

You can also use the privately-owned Keikyu Railways to reach the terminal. Ride the JR Yamanote or JR Keihin-Tohoku Line to Shinagawa Station, then board the Keikyu Airport Line to reach your destination. This trip is also quick and easy from Tokyo Station, taking just 20 minutes to reach Haneda Airport. 

Taking the bus to Haneda Airport from Tokyo Station is also an uncomplicated experience. Departing each hour, the Airport Limousine service sets off from Terminal 2 at the Tekko Building, accessible via the Yaesu North Exit.

Things to do in and around Tokyo Station

Tokyo Station is one of Japan’s largest transport hubs, but it also offers an enormous range of activities that make visiting worthwhile even if you don't need to catch the train. Throughout the underground levels and nearby streets, you'll discover fascinating shopping, dining, and tourist attractions around every corner.

Shopping at Tokyo Station

Shopping is a huge focus at Tokyo Station. With several massive underground plazas providing exciting experiences inside and outside the ticket gates, heading along to explore these bustling destinations is a great way to spend your time in the city.

Yaesu Shopping Mall (Yaesu Chikagai)

Directly connected to Tokyo Station, Yaesu Shopping Mall (Yaesu Chikagai) is one of the largest underground malls in Japan. Across its 180 shops, including 60 restaurants and cafes, there’s everything from high-end fashion outlets to relaxation services like beauticians and barbers. 

Stock up on the latest men’s and women’s styles at Orihica or step into Zoff to discover classic Japanese eyewear. Meanwhile, Kaldi Coffee Farm presents more than 30 varieties of specialty coffee alongside luxury wine, cheese, and spices.

• Address: Floor B1, 2-1 Yaesu, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0028

• Operating Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM

GRANSTA

Spanning the ground and basement floors of Tokyo Station, GRANSTA is another sprawling shopping mall to explore. Divided into three sections – GRANSTA Tokyo, GRANSTA Marunouchi, and the recently opened GRANSTA Yaekita – each part offers its own shopping and culinary delights. 

With over 150 stores to explore, you’ll discover leading fashion brands like Uniqlo alongside sought-after cosmetics from Osaji. Plus, there’s a vast assortment of upmarket souvenir stores and local confectionery brands, ensuring that you head home with thoughtful presents for all your friends and family.

• Address: JR East Tokyo Station Floors B1–1, 1-9-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 100-0005 

• Operating Hours: Monday to Saturday from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM, Sunday from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Daimaru Tokyo

Interlinked with Tokyo Station inside the GranTokyo North Tower, Daimaru Tokyo is another massive department store offering hours of retail fun. Occupying the tower's first 14 floors, each level features sought-after fashion brands, beauty stores, household goods, and foodie retailers.

Daimaru is one of Japan’s most recognizable brands, with an extraordinary history dating back to 1728. Alongside outstanding shopping, you’ll also find about 20 restaurants serving international cuisine on the 12th and 13th floors. Meanwhile, every other level has a laid-back cafe where you can refuel.

• Address: Floors B1–13, 1-9-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-6701

• Operating Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM

Dining at Tokyo Station

Tokyo Station is also a top-notch dining destination. You'll find upscale restaurants and down-to-earth eateries serving alluring cuisine throughout a maze of shopping malls and food courts.

Tokyo Ramen Street

To explore several highly rated ramen spots in one location, you must make a trip to Tokyo Ramen Street. On the Yaesu side of Tokyo Station, this hugely popular spot offers eight specialist ramen shops that each serve their own interpretation of the iconic dish.

So, which one should you choose? Although you’ll have to battle long queues at peak hours, Rokurinsha is acclaimed across Japan for its Tsukemen-style ramen. However, if you prefer ramen with miso broth and curly Hokkaido noodles, don’t miss your chance to visit Tsujita.

• Address: Tokyo Station Ichibangai (First Avenue) Floor B1, 1-9-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 100-0005

• Operating Hours: Daily from 10:30 AM to 11:00 PM

Keiyo Street

For something unique to snack on before you board your train, Keiyo Street is a fantastic place to explore. Renowned for its candy stores, bakeries, and dessert bars, you’ll uncover an array of local treats that will send your tastebuds into overdrive.

If you’re searching for amazing vegan cuisine, T's Tantan should be at the top of your list, thanks to its celebrated plant-based ramen and dumplings. Alongside book stores and clothing boutiques, Keiyo Street is a great pit stop at Tokyo Station.

• Address: 1-9-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-0005

• Operating Hours: Daily from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM

Kitchen Street

Kitchen Street is another thriving foodie destination in the middle of Tokyo Station, featuring around 40 tantalizing venues spanning local and international cuisine. From sushi bars and ramen eateries to pizzerias, finding a satisfying meal here is never a problem.

Tonkatsu Suzuki is where fans of Japanese fried pork chops can find big servings of mouthwatering golden brown dishes. Meanwhile, experience Miyakawa's much-loved soba noodles, made using centuries-old techniques that stretch back to the Edo period.

• Address: 1-9-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-0005

• Operating Hours: Monday to Saturday from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM, Sunday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM

East exit attractions

Once you’ve finished exploring Tokyo Station, the surrounding streets beyond the eastern exits overflow with incredible attractions. For example, the Artizon Museum features a global collection of classical artworks, ranging from Japanese silk paintings to masterpieces from Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, and Jackson Pollock. 

A short distance away in the upmarket district of Ginza, the Kabuki-za Theatre presents vibrant traditional performances featuring talented local actors and mind-blowing stage designs. For an even more cinematic experience, head to the National Film Archive of Japan to view exhibitions about the nation's greatest filmmakers.

Alternatively, if you just want to wander a trendy neighborhood, delve into Nihombashi to encounter refined restaurants and fashion brands. This district is also where you can find Japan’s oldest department store, Mitsukoshi, and the Mitsui Memorial Museum, dedicated to one of the country’s most distinguished merchant families.

West exit attractions

Many of Tokyo’s most prominent tourist attractions are ‌on the western side of Tokyo Station. Dominating the landscape is the Imperial Palace – home to the Japanese Emperor and Imperial Family since the 19th century. Although the interior gardens are usually off-limits to tourists, you’re welcome to explore the peaceful Imperial Palace East Gardens.

Set between Tokyo Station and the Imperial Palace is Wadakura Fountain Park. Opened in 1961 to commemorate the marriage of Emperor Akihito, it’s adorned with stunning water features, native Japanese trees, and wide-open sitting areas where you can soak up the serenity. Flanked by an impressive cafe, this is the perfect spot for a tranquil sit-down.

Contemporary art lovers must experience the National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo (MOMAT). On the northern edge of the Imperial Palace’s gardens, this striking gallery houses 13,000 works created from 1900 to the present day. Across painting, sculpture, photography, and film, you’ll undoubtedly feel inspired following your visit.

Book your trip today with JAL Japan Explorer Pass

Whether you’ve just landed in Tokyo or are looking to explore what lies beyond, getting yourself to Tokyo Station in Chiyoda City is straightforward. Served by 16 local and Shinkansen train lines connected to Narita Airport and Haneda Airport, planning a multi-city itinerary has never been easier. 

Alongside the JAL Japan Explorer Pass, you can access special fares for 30 cities across our extensive domestic network. By ensuring international travelers get the chance to see more of this fascinating country for less, you’ve got every reason to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey.