Looking for an easy and affordable way to travel from Takaoka to Nagoya? We recommend taking the highway bus “KitoKito Liner.”

Previously, reservations were mainly made by phone or tickets were purchased at the counter, but online booking finally became available in April 2026! Now, you can check seat availability, make a reservation, and complete payment using just your smartphone, making travel even more convenient.

In this article, the author actually booked and traveled on the “KitoKito Liner” using a smartphone and provides a detailed report focusing on the points that travelers are most interested in, including the convenience of booking, onboard comfort, and the convenient free parking facility.

▼Here’s what this bus has to offer! (As of April 2026)

※ Fares, travel times, and onboard facilities may vary depending on the service and operating conditions. Please check the operator’s latest announcements for the most up-to-date information.

What is the KitoKito Liner highway bus between Takaoka and Nagoya?

Operated by Dolphin Transportation, the “KitoKito Liner” is a highway bus service that connects Takaoka and Nagoya directly without requiring a transfer. Passengers can board at locations including Takaoka Station, Shin-Takaoka Station, and Takaoka Bus Terminal, and travel directly to the area in front of Nagoya Station.

The service operates up to six round trips per day (four round trips as of April 2026) and is popular among travelers looking to save on transportation costs.

Previously, passengers mainly paid in cash on the day of travel or purchased tickets at the counter, but online booking became available in April 2026. You can now check seat availability and make reservations online, and cashless payment options are also available.

Since you can complete your reservation and payment online in advance, there is no need to wait in line at the counter on the day of your trip. Credit cards and PayPay are also accepted, so you no longer have to worry about forgetting to bring cash.

Even for travelers who may feel a little nervous about taking a highway bus for the first time, the new online booking system makes the process much easier and more convenient.

※ As of April 2026
※ The discount is automatically applied on the payment screen.

＞＞ Check seat availability and fares for the “KitoKito Liner”!
https://www.japanbusonline.com/en/CourseSearch/11800150001?AreaCd=416

KitoKito Liner vs. Shinkansen + Limited Express | A Detailed Comparison of Fares, Travel Times, and Transfers

f you are traveling from Takaoka to Nagoya and want to save money, we recommend the “KitoKito Liner.” If your priority is travel time, however, the Shinkansen + Limited Express is the better option.

Although the “KitoKito Liner” takes approximately 4 hours, it takes you directly to Nagoya without any transfers. The fare is approximately ¥4,000–¥5,000, which is less than half the cost of traveling by Shinkansen + Limited Express.

On the other hand, the Shinkansen + Limited Express takes approximately 3 hours, but requires three transfers and costs around ¥11,000.

The “KitoKito Liner” is also equipped with Wi-Fi, power outlets, and a restroom. Even though the journey takes slightly longer, it is still a very convenient option for travelers who want an affordable and stress-free way to travel.

Book the “KitoKito Liner” in Just 5 Minutes Using Your Smartphone

You can now easily book the “KitoKito Liner” online. Simply check seat availability on your smartphone and complete your reservation and payment online.

After actually trying the booking process, I found that it took approximately 5 minutes from selecting the travel date and route to completing payment. The process was very straightforward, and I felt that even people who are not accustomed to making online reservations could easily complete the booking.

Introduction to Takaoka Bus Terminal, the Waiting Room, and the 48-Hour Free Parking Facility

Takaoka Bus Terminal has a simple design, but it is equipped with the necessary facilities and is easy to use.

The waiting area has sofas where passengers can sit and relax before departure. Free Wi-Fi is also available in the waiting room, so even if you arrive early, you can comfortably use your smartphone while waiting.

The terminal also offers a “Park & Ride” service. If you use the bus, parking is free for 48 hours. After that, the parking fee is ¥500 per day, making it a reasonably priced option.

The parking facility is also very convenient, allowing you to drive there easily and transfer directly to the bus.

Another unique feature is an unmanned frozen gyoza shop housed in a retired bus. It is a rare and interesting place where you can purchase frozen gyoza, and it has become something of a local attraction. Why not stop by while you are waiting for your bus?

“KitoKito Liner” Onboard Facilities: Seats, Restroom, Charging, and Wi-Fi

Here, we will introduce the facilities available onboard the “KitoKito Liner.”

Luggage Compartment

Large luggage such as suitcases must be stored in the luggage compartment underneath the bus when boarding. Since you do not need to keep large luggage at your feet, you can make more comfortable use of the space around your seat.

Overhead Luggage Rack

For luggage that you want to access during the journey, the overhead luggage rack is convenient. Keeping drinks, chargers, and other items you may need during the trip within easy reach can make your journey even more comfortable.

Seats

The bus features three-abreast independent seats. There is plenty of space between passengers, so even during the approximately four-hour journey, you do not feel cramped or pressed against the person next to you. This was particularly comfortable.

The seats can also be reclined, allowing you to take a short nap during the journey.

Restroom

A restroom is available onboard, making the long journey more comfortable and stress-free. Being able to use the restroom at any time simply by getting up from your seat is a major advantage, eliminating the need to wait until the next service area.

Other Facilities

Every seat is equipped with a power outlet, which is another great feature. Passengers can charge smartphones, laptops, and other devices while traveling.

The bus also provides free Wi-Fi. After connecting, I found that it was fast enough for web searches, messaging, and even watching videos. The connection was smooth with almost no noticeable delay when using a smartphone, making it suitable for business use as well.

In addition, the bus operator provides thoughtful amenities such as wet wipes when passengers board. These small touches make the journey even more pleasant.

【Travel Report】My Experience Riding the “KitoKito Liner” from Takaoka Bus Terminal

This time, I took the “KitoKito Liner” from Takaoka Bus Terminal to Nagoya Station.

I took the 12:45 departure from Takaoka Bus Terminal. The bus arrived on time. Since I had already made my reservation online, I was able to board smoothly simply by giving my name.

Approximately two hours after departure, the bus stopped at Hino Kogen Service Area for a break. The bus stopped for about 15 minutes, giving passengers time to get some fresh air, relax, or browse the souvenir shops.

After another hour and a half of travel, we arrived in Nagoya, making the total journey approximately four hours. There was no significant traffic congestion along the way, and it was a comfortable bus journey!

Enjoy Nagoya’s Famous Food as Soon as You Arrive! Recommended Restaurants and Cafés Directly Connected to or Near the Station

Nagoya is home to many delicious local specialties. If you travel from Takaoka to Nagoya on the “KitoKito Liner,” you won’t want to miss the chance to try some of Nagoya’s famous food.

Here are some recommended restaurants and cafés located directly at or near the station!

◆Yabaton Nagoya Station ESCA Branch — Enjoy Nagoya’s Famous Miso-Katsu

“Yabaton Nagoya Station ESCA Branch” is a restaurant located near Nagoya Station where you can enjoy Nagoya’s famous local specialty, miso-katsu.

This time, I ordered the tonkatsu set meal. You can choose to have the entire cutlet covered with miso sauce, or choose a “half-and-half” option combining miso sauce and regular sauce, allowing you to enjoy it according to your preference.

The juicy tonkatsu is generously topped with Yabaton’s signature rich miso sauce. The crispy coating and rich miso sauce are a perfect match!

This dish is sure to satisfy your appetite after a long journey.

◎Basic Information: Yabaton Nagoya Station ESCA Branch

Opening hours	11:00 AM–10:00 PM (Last order: 9:30 PM)
Closed	According to the ESCA underground shopping center’s schedule
Google Maps	https://maps.app.goo.gl/SxUzmJx7gmtRZb8A6
Phone	052-452-6500
Official website	https://www.yabaton.com/modules/shop/index.php?content_id=5

◆Nagoya Menya Yabufuku — Enjoy Several Nagoya Specialties in One Meal

In addition to classic dishes such as miso-katsu, chicken wings, and tempura rice balls, the restaurant also offers flat udon noodles, miso-nikomi udon, and a variety of other noodle dishes.

The restaurant is particularly known for its wide selection of set meals, which combine several local specialties. This allows you to enjoy a variety of Nagoya’s famous foods at one restaurant. If you are not sure what to eat, this is highly recommended.

◎Basic Information: Nagoya Menya Yabufuku

Opening hours	11:00 AM–9:00 PM
Closed	According to the ESCA underground shopping center’s schedule
Google Maps	https://maps.app.goo.gl/KVJTqx4USaJJJt9B7
Phone	052-452-0288
Official website	https://www.esca-sc.com/shop_guide/118/

◆Café Ciao Presso Nagoya Station Ground Floor Branch — A Relaxing Place to Take a Break

“Café Ciao Presso Nagoya Station Ground Floor Branch” is a café that is perfect for taking a break after a long journey. The café has a calm atmosphere where you can sit back and relax.

Although its name includes “Ground Floor,” you actually need to walk down a flight of stairs to reach the café, so please keep this in mind! Since it is located directly in front of the main ticket gates of Kintetsu Nagoya Station, using the station gates as a landmark makes it easier to find.

Some seats are equipped with power outlets, making it convenient for charging your smartphone. If your battery is running low after traveling on the “KitoKito Liner,” why not stop by and recharge?

◎Basic Information: Café Ciao Presso Nagoya Station Ground Floor Branch

Opening hours	Breakfast 7:00 AM–11:00 AM Lunch 11:00 AM–2:00 PM Café 2:00 PM–8:00 PM
Closed	Open daily
Google Maps	https://maps.app.goo.gl/yhSLUtLwa8Qe6mng6
Phone	052-562-1152
Official website	https://ciaopresso.com/news/details/1478/

Travel Comfortably from Takaoka to Nagoya with an Online Reservation for the “KitoKito Liner”

The “KitoKito Liner” online booking system makes traveling even more convenient. Simply book your ticket using your smartphone, park your car at the free parking facility, and enjoy a comfortable bus journey to Nagoya.

Traveling between Takaoka and Nagoya has never been easier.

If you want to save on transportation costs while enjoying a quick and convenient booking experience, why not consider taking the “KitoKito Liner”?

＼Easily book the Takaoka–Nagoya highway bus “KitoKito Liner” online!／
https://www.japanbusonline.com/en/CourseSearch/11800150001?AreaCd=416