by Getting to Chichibu from Tokyo takes around three hours, but navigating Japan’s train system can be quite tricky—even with the help of Google Maps. While Google Maps is a great tool, train transfers in Japan can be complicated, especially for first-time visitors.
So today, I’d like to guide you step-by-step on how to get to Chichibu from Haneda Airport.
If you search the route on Google Maps in the morning from Haneda, you’ll likely see an itinerary similar to the one below.
I believe this route is a better option—it’s simpler and more budget-friendly.
Based on this information, let me walk you through the details step by step.
At Hanada airport for taking Keikyu Line
From Haneda Airport Station, take the Keikyu Line (京急線). Your first destination is Shinagawa Station (品川駅).
Most trains from Haneda head to Shinagawa, but some may switch lines partway through the journey. So it’s a good idea to double-check at the station to make sure you’re boarding a train that goes directly to Shinagawa.
The above train map is from official Keikyu line website of https://norikae.keikyu.co.jp/transit/norikae/T1
At Shinagawa Station for taking Yamanote Line
Next, look for the green line—that’s the Yamanote Line (山手線).
The Yamanote Line is one of the easiest lines to use in Tokyo. It runs in a loop around the city, so even if you accidentally go the wrong direction, you’ll still end up at your destination eventually!
From Shinagawa Station, take the Yamanote Line toward Ikebukuro Station. Trains come every 2 to 5 minutes, so you can hop on whenever you’re ready—no need to rush.
The above map is from JR website of https://jp.piliapp.com/japan-railway/yamanote/
To reach Ikebukuro Station faster, take the clockwise direction on the Yamanote Line. This route will get you there more quickly than going the other way around the loop.
At Ikebukuro Station for taking Seibu Ikebukuro & Chichibu Line
Once you arrive at Ikebukuro Station, you’ll need to walk a short distance to transfer to the Seibu Ikebukuro Line, which takes you toward Chichibu.
Here’s where your journey gets really fun—don’t miss the Limited Express “Laview” train! This sleek and modern train offers large windows, perfect for enjoying the beautiful mountain scenery as you head toward Chichibu.
Be sure to board a Laview train bound for Seibu-Chichibu Station, not just Hanno Station. Some Laview services only go as far as Hanno, so double-check the destination before boarding.
If you take the local train, the trip will take nearly two hours and require a transfer at Hanno. But the Laview Limited Express skips most stops—only making four stops between Ikebukuro and Seibu-Chichibu—making the trip much faster and more comfortable.
Keep in mind that in addition to a regular train ticket, you’ll need to purchase a Limited Express ticket for the Laview. Don’t worry, though—Seibu Railway is more affordable compared to other private lines, and all Laview seats are reserved, ensuring a relaxing ride.
The Laview Limited Express runs about once every hour, so you’ll never have to wait too long.
Up until Hanno Station, you’ll mostly see the urban landscape of Tokyo and Saitama from your train window.
But things get interesting after Hanno—the train changes direction, and so does the view! (Don’t worry—your seat can be rotated to match the new direction of travel.)
From this point on, the scenery transforms dramatically. You’ll start to see lush mountains, rivers, and rural landscapes—a beautiful preview of what awaits you in Chichibu.
The above video is from Ride on a beautiful Japanese train and see the natural beauty of the landscape.｜Japan solo trip by Useful Journey (https://youtu.be/yZyvDTWbEMs)
Welcome to Chichibu!!
