Summary
SHINANO
The Limited Express SHINANO offers a scenic and comfortable journey between Nagoya and Nagano, traveling through the beautiful mountains of central Japan. Along the way, it passes the Kiso Valley, known for its charming old post towns such as Magome and Tsumago, where travelers can experience the atmosphere of Japan’s Edo period.Operated with 383 series trains, the SHINANO provides smooth travel through mountain routes, featuring wide panoramic windows and comfortable seating.
The route connects many attractive destinations, including Nagoya, Matsumoto, and Nagano, where visitors can enjoy historic castles, hot spring resorts, and stunning views of the Japanese Alps. Whether you’re heading to explore nature or discover Japan’s traditional heritage, the SHINANO is an ideal way to experience the heart of Japan.
383 series train set
Route map
Seat types
- The trains are usually operated with 6 cars, but during busy hours, 8- or 10-car formations are used.
- Since only two cars are non-reserved, they tend to be crowded during peak times.
1st class
In 6- and 8-car formations, Car No.1 is 1st class. In 10-car formations, Cars No.1 and No.7 are 1st class. 1st class is called “Green Cars.” All seats are reserved. They feature a 2+2 seating layout, offering comfort even on long journeys. The seat pitch and seat width are larger than those in 2nd class.
1st class (Front seat)
From the 1st class in Car No.1, passengers can enjoy a front view through the driver’s cabin from the seats directly behind it. These are very popular seats, so early reservation is highly recommended.
2nd class
All cars (excluding 1st class) are 2nd class, with a 2+2 seating layout. Reserved and non-reserved seats are the same type of seats.
383 series train set
Stops
- The stops of the trains vary depending on the train.
- ▲ indicates stations where only some trains stop.
- You can transfer to the Tokaido Shinkansen at Nagoya.
- You can transfer to the Limited Express AZUSA at Shiojiri.
- You can transfer to the Hokuriku Shinkansen at Nagano.
Travel Times and Fares for Major Sections
| Route | Type | Time | 1st class |
2nd class (R) |
2nd class (Non-R) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nagoya - Nagano | SHINANO | 3h | ¥11120 | ¥7460 | ¥6930 |
| Nagoya - Matsumoto | SHINANO | 2h10m | ¥8410 | ¥6140 | ¥5610 |
| Nagoya - Nakatsugawa | SHINANO | 50m | ¥3840 | ¥3070 | ¥2540 |
| Nagano - Matsumoto | SHINANO | 50m | ¥3670 | ¥2900 | ¥2370 |
| Nagano - Nakatsugawa | SHINANO | 2h10m | ¥8080 | ¥5810 | ¥5280 |
| Matsumoto - Nakatsugawa | SHINANO | 1h20m | ¥6640 | ¥4370 | ¥3840 |
- "(R)" means fare with seat reservation.
- "(Non-R)" means fare with Non-seat reservation.
- Children aged 6 to under 12 pay half of the adult fare for 2nd class seats. Children under 6 travel free, but a child fare is required if a seat is reserved.
- The following fares are standard fares. During busy seasons, an additional ¥400 applies. During off-peak seasons, ¥200 is discounted.
Onboard facilities
Restrooms
Located approximately once every two cars.
Luggage storage
Luggage storage is available in each car.
Power outlets, Wi-Fi
Power outlets and Wi-Fi are not available.
Timetable
The timetable is frequently updated. Please check the latest version on the JR Central website.
Major sightseeing spots
Nagoya
Nagoya is a historic city centered around Nagoya Castle, once associated with the Tokugawa family. Visitors can also enjoy Atsuta Shrine and local specialties such as miso katsu and hitsumabushi.
NAKATSUGAWA
Nakatsugawa serves as the gateway to Magome-juku, one of the beautifully preserved post towns along the historic Nakasendo route that once connected Kyoto and Edo (Tokyo). Visitors can stroll through its cobblestone streets lined with traditional wooden inns and enjoy stunning mountain views and local sweets such as kurikinton (chestnut confection).
KISO-FUKUSHIMA
Kiso-Fukushima is known for its connection to the nearby post town of Tsumago. Travelers can experience the atmosphere of old Japan through traditional wooden houses, samurai residences, and scenic hiking trails that follow the ancient Nakasendo route.
MATSUMOTO
Matsumoto is home to Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan’s most beautiful original castles. The city blends historic charm with easy access to the Japanese Alps.
NAGANO
Nagano, host of the 1998 Winter Olympics, is known for Zenko-ji Temple and nearby hot spring towns such as Yudanaka and Shibu Onsen. In winter, snow monkeys bathing in hot springs attract visitors from around the world.
Important Notes
- Holidays in May, August, and December are extremely crowded.