Introduction
Picture this, you step off the train onto the bustling platforms of Shinagawa Station Yamanote Line and realize you’re in the heart of Tokyo’s south side. With towering office blocks outside and bullet trains (Shinkansen) roaring nearby, it can feel like a maze if it’s your first time. In this ultimate guide, you’ll learn to navigate station layout, use the right exits, catch the perfect train, and even sneak in a bit of local exploring—all without breaking a sweat.
Here’s what you’ll get: easy-to-follow maps of platforms and exits, insider tips on ticketing and transfers, plus ideas for snacks and sightseeing around the station. Let’s dive in.
Navigate station layout
Before you race off to catch the next Yamanote loop, let’s get oriented.
Shinagawa Station is a two-level complex managed by JR East, with main JR platforms on the first floor and Keikyu platforms above. The east-west corridor links the Takanawa (west) and Konan (east) sides.
Understand the station levels
- First floor: JR Yamanote Line, Keihin-Tohoku Line, Tokaido Main Line, Ueno-Tokyo Line
- Mezzanine: central concourse, ticket gates, shops
- Second floor: Keikyu Main Line, ticket gates, concourse
Find platform numbering
Platform numbers can be your best friend. Look for numeric signs in green for the Yamanote Line (platforms 1 and 2) and blue for Keikyu. If you need the Shinkansen, head to the Tokaido Shinkansen gates on the east side of the first floor.
Use station exits
Choosing the right exit can shave minutes off your walk.
Takanawa exit
- Faces the Shinagawa Prince Hotel and busy office district
- Nearby bus stops for Toei and Keikyu Bus services
- Good for heading south toward Osaki (osaki station yamanote line)
Konan exit
- Opens onto Konan Shopping Square and the urban campus area
- Short walk to Sengaku-ji Temple and the Tokaido Shinkansen entrance
- Ideal if you’re connecting to Gotanda or Ebisu (gotanda station yamanote line guide)
Find train services
Shinagawa is more than just the Yamanote Line stop—here’s a quick overview.
| Service | Destinations | Platform |
|---|---|---|
| JR Yamanote Line | Ikebukuro, Shinjuku, Shibuya loop | 1 (inner), 2 (outer) |
| Tokaido Shinkansen | Nagoya, Kyoto, Osaka | 11–12 |
| Keikyu Main Line | Haneda Airport, Yokohama, Asakusa | 3–4 |
| Keihin-Tohoku / Ueno-Tokyo | Ueno, Yokohama, Utsunomiya | 5–6 |
Spotting the Yamanote platforms
Green signs mark the Yamanote tracks. Inner loop trains head toward Tokyo Station; outer loop trains go to Shinagawa, Yokohama, and onward.
Accessing the Shinkansen
Follow signs for Tokaido Shinkansen. You’ll need a reserved seat ticket or a Japan Rail Pass. Gates are separate from local JR lines.
Riding the Keikyu line
If you’re off to Haneda Airport or Yokohama, follow sky-blue Keikyu signs upstairs. IC cards (Suica, Pasmo) work seamlessly here.
Explore station amenities
You’ll find more than trains at Shinagawa—there’s shopping, dining, and services.
Ekinaka shopping
Inside ticket gates:
- Mini-convenience stores (grabbing an onigiri to go)
- Souvenir shops selling Tokyo snacks
- Bakeries and coffee stands—perfect for fuel before the ride
Services and lockers
- Coin lockers in various sizes (¥300–700 per day)
- JR East Travel Service Center for ticketing help
- Restrooms with baby-care rooms and wheelchair access
Discover nearby attractions
Shinagawa ward blends history and modern vibes.
In Shinagawa ward
- Sengaku-ji Temple, home of the 47 Ronin (5-minute walk)
- Takanawa Gateway Park, a small green escape
- Shinagawa Aquarium in the Aqua Park complex
Beyond Shinagawa
- Take the Tokyo Water Bus from the Takanawa exit dock to Odaiba
- Walk to the scenic Tennozu Isle art district (15 minutes)
- Hop on the Yamanote loop to explore Shimbashi (shimbashi station yamanote line) or nearby Hamamatsucho (hamamatsucho station yamanote line)
Plan transfers and tips
Little hacks go a long way in Tokyo.
Ticketing options
- Suica or Pasmo IC cards: tap-and-go across trains and buses
- Tokyo Metropolitan District Pass (Tokunai Pass): ¥760 for unlimited JR local rides for one day (saves you if you’re looping the inner city)
- Japan Rail Pass: best if you plan Shinkansen day trips
Walking between lines
- Allow 5–7 minutes to transfer between JR and Keikyu
- Follow colored floor arrows for guided routes
- Peak hours (8–9am, 5–7pm) can feel crowded—avoid rolling suitcases
Link to other guides
Check out our Yamanote line stations guide to plan your full loop, and see exit tips at Tokyo Station if you’re connecting there next.
Key takeaways
- Learn the two main exits—Takanawa for hotels, Konan for Shinkansen
- Use color-coded signs to find Yamanote, Shinkansen, or Keikyu platforms
- Grab a Suica or Pasmo card for seamless transfers
- Explore Sengaku-ji Temple or catch a Tokyo Water Bus ride nearby
- Keep coins handy for lockers, and allow extra time during rush hours
Enjoy your trip through Shinagawa Station Yamanote Line—once you’ve got these tips down, this hub will feel more like home than a maze. Feel free to share your favorite station hacks in the comments below.
Frequently asked questions
-
How do I transfer from the Yamanote Line to the Shinkansen at Shinagawa?
Simply follow green Yamanote Line signs to the first-floor east concourse, then look for Tokaido Shinkansen gates. Allocate about 5 minutes for the walk. -
Are there luggage storage options at Shinagawa Station?
Yes, you’ll find coin lockers (small to jumbo) near platforms 1–2 and the east concourse. Prices range from ¥300 to ¥700 per day. -
Which exit should I use for the Shinagawa Prince Hotel?
Take the Takanawa exit on the west side. The hotel is a 2-minute walk, and you’ll spot it from the station gate. -
Can I use my Suica card on Keikyu trains?
Absolutely. Your Suica or Pasmo works on Keikyu, JR lines, buses, and even some vending machines across the station. -
Is Shinagawa Station accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes. Elevators connect all levels, restrooms have accessible stalls, and ticket gates include wide-entrance options.
