For those returning to Japan after a long time, you may notice that the cityscape and transportation systems have changed quite a bit. Many visitors find navigating Tokyo's public transport system a bit overwhelming at first. Having the right information ahead of time can make a big difference in ensuring a smooth and comfortable visit.
Tokyo International Forum is a world-class convention and arts center located in the Yurakucho area of Tokyo. It regularly hosts a variety of business events including conferences, exhibitions, lectures, and seminars. Its central location and excellent transport connections make it a top choice for both organizers and attendees.
In this guide, you'll find practical information including how to get to Tokyo International Forum, hotel recommendations, dining options nearby, and key travel tips to help you navigate your stay in Japan efficiently. Use this resource to arrive smoothly and make the most of your business time in Tokyo.
- Getting to Tokyo International Forum
- ＜Getting to nearest station of Tokyo International Forum from Major Airports in Japan＞
- ＜From JR Yurakucho and JR Tokyo Station＞
- Event Venues at Tokyo International Forum
- Venue Overview
- Where to Stay: Recommended Hotels Near Yurakucho & Marunouchi
- Key Tips for Choosing Accommodation in the Yurakucho/Marunouchi Area
- Top 3 Recommended Hotels
- Where to Eat: Dining Options at Tokyo International Forum
- Important Tips for Business Travelers
- 🚇 Beware of Rush Hour Crowds
- 📍 Station Layouts Can Be Complex
- 💰 Cashless is Common, But Cash is Still Useful
- 🚬 Smoking Restrictions Apply
- 👨💼 Follow Japanese Business Etiquette
Getting to Tokyo International Forum
Tokyo International Forum is conveniently located in the Yurakucho/Tokyo area, which is served by multiple JR and subway lines. It offers excellent access from major areas within the city.
Let’s first go over the steps for getting to Tokyo International Forum after arriving in Japan.
＜Getting to nearest station of Tokyo International Forum from Major Airports in Japan＞
From Narita International Airport
Option 1: JR Narita Express (N'EX)
Travel Time: Approx. 60 minutes
Route: Direct from Narita Airport to Tokyo Station (no transfers)
Note: Speed and convenience
▲ Narita Express (N’EX)
Option 2: Limousine Bus
Travel Time: Approx. 80–90 minutes
Route: Direct from Narita Airport to Tokyo Station
Note: Travelers with heavy luggage; reserved seating ensures comfort
Option 3: Keisei Skyliner + JR Yamanote Line
Travel Time: Approx. 50 minutes
Route: Narita Airport → Nippori Station (Approx. 36 min via Skyliner), then transfer to JR Yamanote Line → Yurakucho Station (Approx. 14 min)
Note: Faster transit despite one transfer
From Haneda Airport
Route 1: Tokyo Monorail + JR Yamanote Line
Travel Time: Approx. 28 minutes
Route: Haneda Airport → Hamamatsucho Station (Approx. 24 min via Monorail) → Yurakucho Station (Approx. 4 min via Yamanote Line)
Note: Quick, smooth transfer
▲ Tokyo Monorail
Route 2: Keikyu Line + JR Yamanote Line
Travel Time: Approx. 33 minutes
Route: Haneda Airport → Shinagawa Station (Approx. 22 min via Keikyu Line) → Yurakucho Station (Approx. 11 min via Yamanote Line)
Note: Straightforward single transfer
＜From JR Yurakucho and JR Tokyo Station＞
Tokyo International Forum is connected to multiple subway lines including the Yurakucho, Chiyoda, Marunouchi, Ginza, and Toei Mita Lines. Below are walking directions from the two main nearby JR stations:
From JR Yurakucho Station
Exit: International Forum Exit
Walk Time: 1 minute
Directions: After exiting the gate, you’ll immediately see the iconic glass building of Tokyo International Forum in front of you. Cross the street and walk straight to the main entrance.
▲ just outside the Kokusai Forum Exit ticket gate
From JR Tokyo Station
Exit: Marunouchi South Exit
Walk Time: 5 minutes
Directions: Head left (south) toward Sotobori-dori. Pass the Hato Bus terminal, continue straight, and cross the street to reach the Forum's glass entrance.
For maps and further details: Tokyo International Forum Access Guide
Event Venues at Tokyo International Forum
Venue Overview
Tokyo International Forum offers a variety of halls suited for different types of business events.
Hall A and Hall E are ideal for large-scale international conferences and exhibitions.
Hall B7 and Hall D7 are frequently used for corporate seminars and presentations.
Multiple halls and conference rooms can be rented and combined to accommodate events of varying scales.
For detailed floor plans and facility information: Tokyo International Forum Facility Guide
▲ Hall A
▲ Hall E
▲ Hall B7
▲ Hall D7
Hall Name | Capacity | Features |
|---|---|---|
Hall A | Approx. 5,000 seats | One of the largest multipurpose halls in Japan. Ideal for large-scale international conferences, symposiums, concerts, and ceremonies. Fully equipped with stage and sound systems. |
Hall B7 | Approx. 1,500 seats | A spacious 1,400 m² column-free area. The movable sound-insulating partitions allow for division into two sections, making it perfect for academic conferences, lectures, and presentations. |
Hall B5 | 600 m², divisible into two spaces (280 m² / 300 m²) | Flat-floor format with flexible layout options. Suitable for corporate events, product launches, and small-scale conferences. |
Hall C | Approx. 1,500 seats | A hall with complete stage facilities. Frequently used for theatrical performances, live shows, and ceremonies. |
Hall D7 | 340㎡ | A simple flat-floor hall with no decorative elements by design. Various lighting and sound effects can be utilized, making it suitable for exhibitions, theatrical performances, and screenings. |
Hall D5 | 285 m² (16.5 m × 17.2 m × ceiling height 6.35 m) | A functional yet stylish medium-to-small-sized space. Suitable for seminars and parties with 100 to 200 participants. |
Hall D1 | 137 m² (13.7 m × 10 m × ceiling height 4.7 m) | A compact flat-floor hall ideal for meetings, briefings, and internal training sessions. |
Hall E | 5,000 m², divisible into two spaces (3,000 m² / 2,000 m²) | A large flat space ideal for exhibitions, trade shows, and corporate events. Flexible layout allows for multiple booth installations. |
Where to Stay: Recommended Hotels Near Yurakucho & Marunouchi
For those visiting Japan for the first time, there can be many concerns—not only language and cultural differences, but also things like transportation and connectivity. That’s why it’s important to choose accommodation where you can feel as comfortable as possible.
However, if you’re staying in Tokyo for business, it’s also essential to choose a hotel with convenient access to the Tokyo International Forum. Here, we’ll introduce four key points to consider when selecting a place to stay.
Key Tips for Choosing Accommodation in the Yurakucho/Marunouchi Area
✅ Walking Distance to Tokyo and Yurakucho Stations
This area is a major transportation hub. If you’re arriving via Narita or Haneda or using the Shinkansen, staying within walking distance of Tokyo Station can significantly reduce travel stress, especially when carrying luggage.
✅ On-Site Business Facilities
Be sure to check whether the hotel provides a suitable work environment, such as printers, meeting rooms, or a business center. For travelers who may feel uncertain about the language, it’s also important to see if there is a 24-hour front desk and English-speaking staff available.
✅ Comfort for Long-Term Stays
If you plan to stay for more than a week, choosing a hotel with amenities like laundry service, in-room kitchenettes, or a fitness gym can greatly enhance your comfort. In the Yurakucho and Marunouchi areas, you can also find several serviced apartment-style hotels.
✅ Nearby Shopping and Dining
The convenience of the surrounding area plays a key role in ensuring a comfortable stay. It’s a good idea to check in advance whether there are shopping complexes or convenience stores within walking distance. Having stores nearby can make a big difference—whether you want to grab a quick snack late at night or need to pick up some business supplies on short notice. Being in an area with cafés or shops where you can take a short break between meetings can also help you stay focused.
Top 3 Recommended Hotels
Super Hotel Premier Tokyo Station Yaesu-Chuoguchi
A 3-minute walk from Tokyo Station and within walking distance to Tokyo International Forum. The hotel features a carbonated hot spring bath—perfect for relaxing after a long business day.
Directly connected to Tokyo Station with unbeatable access. Offers impressive city views from high floors and has meeting rooms available for guests and non-guests alike.
Four Seasons Hotel Marunouchi Tokyo
A luxury hotel just 4 minutes on foot from Tokyo Station Yaesu South Exit. Home to Maison Marunouchi, a modern French bistro, this hotel balances business convenience with refined relaxation.
Where to Eat: Dining Options at Tokyo International Forum
When time is limited during business travel, having quality dining options nearby can make a big difference. Here are three restaurants located right within Tokyo International Forum:
Shake Shack Tokyo International Forum
This NYC-born burger chain offers high-quality burgers and fries in a casual setting—ideal for a quick and satisfying lunch.
Papa Milano Tokyo International Forum
An Italian restaurant featuring a range of pasta and pizza dishes, with plenty of lighter options for casual coffee breaks or short meetings.
Toh-Ten-Koh Tokyo International Forum
A refined Chinese restaurant with a calm, formal atmosphere. Private rooms and banquet spaces for up to 60 guests make it suitable for lunch meetings or business dinners.
Important Tips for Business Travelers
Lastly, please note the following points. Being aware of them can help make your business stay in Japan smoother and more comfortable.
🚇 Beware of Rush Hour Crowds
The Tokyo/Yurakucho area gets extremely busy during commuting hours (7:30–9:30 AM and 5:30–7:30 PM). Lines like JR Yamanote, Tokyo Metro Yurakucho, and Marunouchi can become very crowded. Try to avoid traveling with large luggage during these hours.
📍 Station Layouts Can Be Complex
Tokyo and Yurakucho Stations are vast and often confusing for first-time visitors. Consider checking station maps in advance in addition to using Google Maps.
💰 Cashless is Common, But Cash is Still Useful
While most stores accept cards and IC payments, some smaller shops or vending machines may still require cash. Carrying a small amount of yen is advisable.
🚬 Smoking Restrictions Apply
Outdoor smoking is prohibited in many areas of Tokyo, including Yurakucho and Marunouchi. Only smoke in designated smoking areas, typically found in hotels or office buildings.
👨💼 Follow Japanese Business Etiquette
In Japan, exchanging business cards is considered very important in professional settings. It is standard etiquette to offer your card politely with both hands and to handle the other person’s card with care instead of putting it away immediately. Also, since punctuality is highly valued in Japanese business culture, it’s best to arrive at appointments 5 to 10 minutes early. These small gestures of courtesy play a direct role in building trust.
Share this article
