How to Travel to Himeji from Tokyo and Fukuoka: Price and Travel Time

Visit Himeji Castle, a World Heritage Site

JR Himeji Station is the nearest station to Himeji Castle, and it offers access to various lines, including the Shinkansen. It is a 20-minute walk while enjoying the cityscape from the station to the castle.

This article features transportation options to the castle from Tokyo and Fukuoka, including the Shinkansen, airliners, and buses, along with their respective fares. Look for transportation that fits your itinerary and budget.

How to Travel to Himeji

How to Access Himeji From Tokyo
- Shinkansen: The Most Convenient Way to Go
- Airplane: Satisfying Both Time and Cost
- Highway Bus: A Cost Saver
- Rental Car: Traveling with Flexibility

Access Himeji from Fukuoka
- Shinkansen: The Most Efficient Way to Go
- Airliner: Use the Frequent Flyer Mileage
- Highway Bus: Cost-Effective
- Rental Car: A Carefree Trip
Cost-efficient Passes and Travel Discounts

How to Access Himeji From Tokyo

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There are multiple transportation routes to Himeji Castle from Tokyo.

They include the Shinkansen, airplanes, and highway buses. However, in terms of convenience and efficiency, the Shinkansen is the best transportation option.

It runs directly from Tokyo Station to Himeji Station, making it ideal for businesspersons or those on a tight schedule.

While a highway bus is a great way to save costs, remember that it will take more time.

Shinkansen: The Most Convenient Way to Travel

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The Shinkansen is the most convenient transportation from Tokyo to Himeji Castle. It is ideal for those who prefer a time-efficient route or travelers embarking on a short trip.

There is no need to switch trains for those riding a Shinkansen that runs directly from Shinagawa or Tokyo Station. From Shinagawa to Himeji, it takes about 2 hours and 50 minutes, and the one-way fare for a non-reserved seat is 15,400 yen. Be sure to make an early purchase for peak hours and the busy season.

Since a non-reserved seat may not be available during some hours, travelers should consider purchasing a reserved seat in such cases.

Airplane: Satisfying Both Time and Cost

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Depending on the season, flying from Tokyo costs less than the Shinkansen while taking about the same time. Flying is both time- and cost-efficient.

There are various flights from Haneda Airport to Kobe Airport. The flight takes about an hour and 20 minutes, while the train ride from Kobe Airport to Himeji Station takes about the same amount of time.

So keep in mind that from Haneda to Himeji Station, it will take about 2 hours and 40 minutes by airliner and train.

The airline fare is about 7,550 yen in a regular season when booked 2 weeks in advance. While it might become cheaper with an early bird discount, booking may be difficult during the busy season. Therefore, we recommend planning ahead when purchasing tickets during peak travel periods.

Highway Bus: A Cost Saver

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An overnight bus is perfect for those who want to save on the costs of traveling from Tokyo to Himeji.

The bus departs from major terminals in Tokyo, such as Shinjuku and Tokyo stations, and the ride to the Kansai region takes about 8 hours and 30 minutes. The one-way fare is about 3,500 yen and up, which is considerably cheaper than other transportation options.

An overnight bus allows passengers to save on lodging costs, enabling them to start sightseeing after arrival. It is a long ride, so be sure to secure a comfortable seat, along with some snacks and drinks.

Rental Car: Travel with Flexibility

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Driving to Himeji Castle from Tokyo allows travelers some leeway to stop by tourist destinations along the route.

It will take 7 to 8 hours, including short breaks. Although the cost will vary according to rental companies and car types, it should be about 10,000 yen per day. Please note that there will be highway tolls and gasoline costs in addition to the rental fee.

From Tokyo, travelers can visit tourist destinations such as Mount Fuji, Nagoya, and Kyoto, or wherever they want to go.

For example, they can head to Himeji Castle after spending time in Kyoto. A rental car is perfect for those who want to visit multiple spots at their own pace.

Access Himeji from Fukuoka

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While there are multiple transportation routes to Himeji Castle from Fukuoka, the Shinkansen is the most convenient.

A Shinkansen ride from Kokura Station to Himeji Station takes about an hour and 50 minutes. The one-way fare is 12,320 yen.

When traveling by air, travelers must take a train from Osaka International Airport (Itami Airport) to Himeji Station. Switching trains on a Shinkansen ride is unnecessary, making it much easier.

Shinkansen: The Most Efficient Way to Travel

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From Fukuoka, the Shinkansen is the most convenient transportation to Himeji Castle. Those on a business trip or a short journey should opt for the Shinkansen.

Since the train departing from Kokura or Hakata Station runs directly to Himeji Station, there is no need to switch trains.

From Kokura to Himeji, it takes about an hour and 50 minutes, and the one-way fare is 12,320 yen. From Hakata, it takes about 2 hours and 5 minutes, and the one-way fare is 13,540 yen and up.

Airliner: Use the Frequent Flyer Mileage

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Flying is an option for those who have frequent flyer mileage.

There are many flights to Itami Airport from Fukuoka. With a train ride from the airport to Himeji Station, please remember that the trip will take more than two and a half hours.

A one-way fare from Fukuoka to Itami is 8,060 yen and up.

Highway Bus: Cost-Effective

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Those who want to save on costs should consider riding a bus.

The conventional route would be from Hakata to Sannomiya Station in Kobe.

Although the train ride from Sannomiya to Himeji and the walk to the castle will take about 40 minutes in total, the bus and train fare will be about 4,000 yen.

Rental Car: A Carefree Trip

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Those who want to travel leisurely should use a rental car. When driving, travelers can enjoy the view of the Seto Inland Sea or visit tourist attractions such as Korakuen Garden (Okayama) and Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge (Hyogo). They can enjoy the trip at their own pace.

The drive from Fukuoka City to Himeji will take about 7 hours, including short breaks. Booking a car for 36 hours will cost 12,848 yen and up.

Cost-efficient Passes and Discount Information

Travelers can save on some costs by using various discount tickets.

There are EX Hayatoku and e-Hayatoku for Shinkansen users. Smart U-25 is available for members of the ANA Mileage Club between 12 and 25 years old.

We also recommend checking the JR regional passes, which offer discount travel for several days in a certain area of Japan.

Since most highway bus companies offer an early-bird discount or a weekday discount, it is wise to book a ticket via the official website. Some car rental companies also offer weekday discounts, while others provide an additional reduction if the applicant signs up as a club member.

Enjoy Exploring Himeji

There are various ways to travel to Himeji Castle, such as the Shinkansen, airplane, highway bus, or rental car. Look for a means that fits your budget and schedule.

While the Shinkansen is the quickest way to travel, a bus or a car will allow you to save on some travel costs and enable a flexible schedule. Be sure to look for discount information as well.