Picture this: you step off the Yamanote Line at Yurakucho Station and spot a sea of staircases and exits. Been there? Over 160,000 riders zip through here each weekday (Wikipedia), but if you know which way to go, it’s a cakewalk. This ultimate guide will help you navigate Yurakucho Station on the Yamanote Line. You’ll get the lowdown on station layout, exits, line connections, plus the best spots to eat and shop under the tracks. Let’s go.
Station layout overview
Yurakucho Station splits into two halves: JR East platforms on the upper level and Tokyo Metro subway below. Both share a central concourse with ticket gates. Under the JR tracks you’ll find Gado-shita, a covered arcade of restaurants and shops.
JR East platforms
You’ll find platforms 1 and 2 shared by the Yamanote and Keihin-Tōhoku Lines. Chest-high platform edge doors were added in 2014 for extra safety (Wikipedia). Departure boards show train direction and next stops in clear English.
Metro platforms
Tokyo Metro Yūrakuchō Line platforms (1 and 2) sit beneath the JR concourse. You’ll need a separate Metro ticket or an IC card. Follow yellow signs for exits A1 and A2 to pop up near the JR gates above.
Concourse and ticket gates
The central concourse links both JR East and Tokyo Metro lines. Green icons mark JR lines – including the Yamanote – while yellow signs point to the Yūrakuchō Line. Ticket machines and fare adjustment kiosks line the walls, so tap or insert your card before you head up or down.
Choose the right exit
West exit to Gado-shita
Head for the west exit if you want to dive into Gado-shita’s restaurant stalls under the tracks. You’ll find kushiyaki (grilled skewers), cozy izakayas, and standing bars. Look for signs marked “West Exit – Gado-shita.”
East exit to Hibiya
The east exit drops you near Hibiya, the Imperial Palace outer gardens, and leafy parks. Take a five-minute walk to Hibiya Park or cross the street for the palace moat path.
Metro exits for Ginza
If you’re aiming for Ginza, use Metro exits A1 and A2 (just follow yellow signs). They lead you through an underground passage into Ginza’s shopping streets in about seven minutes.
Connect to other lines
Keihin-Tōhoku line
The Keihin-Tōhoku line shares the same JR platforms as the Yamanote. Just hop on the next train – some run local, others skip stations. Watch the display for “Local” if you want every stop.
Tokyo Metro Yūrakuchō line
Follow signs for the Yūrakuchō Line (marked Y) to ride the subway toward Wakōshi or Shin-Kiba. It’s a handy shortcut to Ikebukuro or Toyosu without surface transfers.
Nearby Hibiya Station
A covered walkway links you to Hibiya Station (Hibiya, Chiyoda, and Mita Lines). If you need the Hibiya Line or want to catch a show at Hibiya Hall, look for signs marked “To Hibiya.”
Bus and taxi access
Right outside the east exit you’ll find the bus terminal – airport limousine buses depart here for Haneda and Narita. Taxis queue up at both east and west exits, flagged by green lights after dark.
Discover nearby attractions
| Attraction | Distance | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Gado-shita | At station | Yakitori, izakayas, standing bars |
| Ginza shopping | 10-minute walk | Luxury boutiques, department stores |
| Hibiya Park | 5-minute walk | Outdoor concerts, seasonal flowers |
| Imperial Palace moat | 15-minute walk | Scenic jog route, historic landmarks |
| Kabuki-za theater | 12-minute walk | Traditional kabuki performances |
Fancy a quick extra pit stop? Shimbashi is just one stop away—famous for its old-school izakayas and the SL Plaza steam locomotive. Check our Shimbashi station guide to plan your visit.
Dine around Yurakucho
Looking for a sushi fix? Gado-shita under the tracks has you covered, but here’s the breakdown:
- Yakitori stalls: bite-size chicken skewers grilled to order
- Casual izakayas: small plates, local sake, friendly vibes
- Ramen shops: tonkotsu, shōyu, plus quick standing-bar noodle counters
- Sushi counters: grab fresh nigiri without the formal setting
- Cafes and bakeries: drip coffee, melon pan, and sweet treats
Shop under the tracks
- Bic Camera Yurakucho: one-stop electronics shop next to the west exit
- Yurakucho Mullion: multi-level fashion, gifts, and eateries a block from the east exit
- Gado-shita stalls: pick up quick souvenirs, snacks, and train-themed knickknacks
Plan your transfers
- Board near doors 6–8 to shave off walking time to the west exit
- Tap your Suica or Pasmo card in advance—fare gates get busy during peak hours
- Check platform displays for train type (Local vs Rapid) so you don’t miss your stop
- Need to switch at Tokyo Station? See our Tokyo Station Yamanote Line exits directions so you won’t get lost
Get smart travel tips
- Buy a reloadable IC card (Suica or Pasmo) to skip paper ticket lines
- Download a real-time train app (HyperDia or Google Maps) for up-to-the-minute departure info
- Carry a portable charger—your phone becomes your map, translator, and ticket
- Pack a small umbrella or raincoat—the weather can shift on a whim
- Ready to hop off at other Yamanote stops? Check our Yamanote line stations guide for station-by-station tips
Frequently asked questions
How do I transfer from JR to Tokyo Metro at Yurakucho?
Follow signs for the Yūrakuchō Line in the main concourse, then use the Metro ticket gates underneath. It’s a straight shot.
Which exit is best for the Gado-shita restaurants?
Use the west exit and look for “Gado-shita” signs. You’ll pop right into the row of yakitori and izakaya stalls.
Are there coin lockers at Yurakucho Station?
Yes, you’ll find coin-operated lockers near both east and west JR gates. Sizes vary, so check availability early.
Where can I catch the airport limousine bus?
Head to the east exit bus terminal. Look for the blue “Airport Limousine” signs—they run regularly to Haneda and Narita.
What’s the best time to ride to avoid crowds?
Try traveling between 10 am and 3 pm on weekdays. You’ll enjoy more space on trains and fewer queues at ticket gates.
