TOKYO TO MADARAO
Tokyo station is an underground labyrinth bustling with shops filled with all kinds of amazing new and wonderful things. It can be a bit tricky to navigate as it is multi-levelled so below is my go-to for getting here
Begin at the Yaesu entrance. If arriving in a taxi just tell the driver “Hokuriku shinkansen kudasai” The correct sentence is a bit more involved but they will understand what you mean and appreciate your effort
If you haven’t pre-booked the train you have many options to choose to get tickets either the JR ticketing counter directly in front of you or the JR ticketing machines are your easiest options
You want to purchase tickets for the Hukutaka to Iiyama Station you will require both the basic fare + the express if you have the option try to get reserved seats these trains get very busy and non-reserved sometimes struggle to get seated together.
Go through the gateways and head straight following the JR signs shortly you will see the Hokuriku Shinkansen signs in bold on both sides. This train leaves from platform 21 “normally” Always double-check this on the digital screens above the entrance. There are toilets on the train and a snack and drinks cart on board, but you can also find great bento boxes at the small shops on the platform.
The trains run bang on time and are 1 hour 40 minutes long. They have powerpoints at the seat but you’ll need your adaptor.
Exit train at Iiyama station follow the exit signs to the front door here you will find digital screens that display the bus timetable and the Madarao Bus stop is directly to the right outside the main doors. Tickets can be purchased on board the bus.