Hokuriku one-way ticket Osaka/Kyoto Fukui/Kanazawa/Toyama [e-ticket instant issuance] Transport Passes

Must Do Experiences

• Relax in your reserved seat while watching the scenery transition from urban Osaka to the rugged Japan Sea coast on the Limited Express Thunderbird.

• Glide at high speeds through the majestic Japanese Alps aboard the Hokuriku Shinkansen.

• Use your seamless transit to explore the beautifully preserved Edo-period streets of Kanazawa or the stunning coastal dunes of Fukui.

• Savor an authentic ekiben station bento purchased at Shin-Osaka or Kyoto station before your scenic rail journey begins.

Hidden Gems

• Request a window seat on the right side of the Thunderbird for the best views of Lake Biwa and the Japan Sea coastline.

• Stop briefly at Fukui to visit the Dinosaur Museum, one of the largest and most impressive paleontology museums in the world, before continuing to Kanazawa.

• Look out for the stunning snow corridors and alpine vistas visible from the Shinkansen windows during the late winter and early spring months.

What Makes it Special

• Instant e-ticket issuance means you can bypass long ticket office queues and head straight to the automated exchange machines at the station.

• Guaranteed reserved seating on both the Limited Express Thunderbird and the Hokuriku Shinkansen ensures a comfortable, stress-free journey with your luggage.

• Perfectly bridges the cultural gap between the ancient capitals of Kansai and the traditional geisha and samurai districts of the Hokuriku region in a single, scenic trip.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

Early morning departures offer the clearest views of the Japan Sea and the Japanese Alps, while avoiding the midday rush of domestic commuters. Autumn brings spectacular foliage to the mountainous routes, and winter offers dramatic, snow-dusted landscapes, though travelers should check for occasional weather-related delays during heavy snowfall in January and February.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Capture the sleek, aerodynamic nose of the Hokuriku Shinkansen at the platform before boarding, utilizing the bright station lighting for sharp architectural shots.

• Sit on the ocean-facing side of the Thunderbird to photograph the shimmering waters of Lake Biwa and the rugged Japan Sea coast during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon.

• Avoid using flash photography inside the train carriages to respect the comfort and privacy of fellow passengers.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

Japanese train etiquette dictates a quiet atmosphere, so please keep phone conversations to a minimum and set your devices to silent mode. It is also customary to slightly recline your seat only after checking with the passenger behind you, and to consume strongly scented foods discreetly.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• Travel in April to witness the breathtaking cherry blossom tunnels as the train winds through the rural landscapes of the Hokuriku region.

• Ride during the Kanazawa Hyakumangoku Matsuri in early June, where the city celebrates its samurai heritage with parades and traditional tea ceremonies.

• Experience the magical winter illuminations and snow festivals in Fukui and Toyama from January to February, transforming the snowy stations into festive hubs.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Mind the gap between the train and the platform when boarding and alighting, especially at older regional stations along the Thunderbird route.

• Keep your valuables and passport secure in a personal bag on your lap or in the overhead rack, as unattended items can cause security alerts.

• Familiarize yourself with the location of the emergency buttons and intercoms located at the ends of each Shinkansen carriage just in case.