Whether it’s your first time in Japan or your fifth, figuring out the best way to travel between cities can be overwhelming.
The good news? The Shinkansen Tokyo to Osaka route is one of the easiest and most iconic journeys you can take.
Covering about 515 km in just 2.5 hours, the bullet train zips you from Japan’s bustling capital to Osaka’s vibrant food and nightlife scene at speeds of up to 320 km/h. Along the way, you’ll enjoy a smooth ride, scenic countryside views, and maybe even a bento box (ekiben) by your window seat.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about taking the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Osaka — including ticket prices, timetables, stops, travel time, whether you should book in advance, and where to buy tickets online. By the end, you’ll know exactly which train to take and how to make the most of your journey.
💜 Stay Up To Date:
– 15 Things To Do In City Square JB (2025)
– 21 Things To Do In Mount Austin JB | Food.& Activities (2025)
– Hong Kong ATM Withdrawal Guide: Fees, Locations, Exchange Rates (2025)
Don’t get on a plane without your trusty travel card that promises the best rates all day with zero fees✨ Sign up for a complimentary YouTrip card with <YTBLOG5> and get FREE S$5!
Table of Contents
- TL;DR
- Shinkansen Tokyo to Osaka: Route Overview
- Types of Shinkansen Trains
- Seating Options & Fare Breakdown
- Where to Buy Tickets
- Using the JR Pass for the Shinkansen
- Alternative Ways to Travel from Tokyo to Osaka
- FAQs
TL;DR
- Fastest option: Nozomi Shinkansen → ~2 hrs 30 mins
- Shinkansen Tokyo to Osaka price: From 13,620 JPY (~S$126)
- Best train: Nozomi for speed, Hikari if you’re using the JR Pass
- Shinkansen Tokyo to Osaka timetable: Trains depart every 3–10 minutes
- Main stops: Tokyo / Shinagawa → Shin-Osaka (with some stops at Nagoya, Kyoto)
- Where to buy tickets: Online (JR East, Klook) or at the station
- Should you book in advance? Yes, during peak seasons or if travelling in groups
Shinkansen Tokyo to Osaka: Route Overview
Distance & Travel Time
- Distance: ~515 km
- Fastest travel time: ~2 hours 30 minutes (Nozomi)
- Average travel time: ~2.5 – 4 hours, depending on train type
Popular Departure / Arrival Stations
| City | Station Name |
|---|---|
| Tokyo | Tokyo Station, Shinagawa Station |
| Osaka | Shin-Osaka Station |
Note: The Shinkansen does not arrive directly at Osaka Station – use the local JR or metro lines from Shin-Osaka
Direct vs Transfer Routes:
- Direct: Most Shinkansen routes from Tokyo to Shin-Osaka are direct
- Transfer: Some slower services may require a transfer at Nagoya or Kyoto, but this is rare
📚 Check out this Autumn in Japan Fall Foliage Forecast 2025 to plan your trip!
Types of Shinkansen Trains on the Tokyo to Osaka Route
Image Credits: JR Central
The Tokyo-Osaka route is served by the Tokaido Shinkansen with three main types of trains:
| Train Type | Stops | Travel Time | JR Pass Eligible? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nozomi | 5 | ~2.5 hours | No |
| Hikari | 6 | ~3 hours | Yes |
| Kodama | 15 | ~4 hours | Yes |
👉 Always check the official JR timetable before traveling, as schedules may shift slightly during holidays.
📚 Find the Best Things To Do In Nagoya City, Japan
Seating Options & Fare Breakdown
Image Credits: JAPAN RAIL PASS
You can choose from three seating options:
- Non-reserved Seat – Cheapest, free seating with limited seats during peak hours
- Reserved Seat – Assigned seating, recommended for longer journeys
- Green Car – The ‘first-class’ cabins of the Shinkansen with wider legroom and quieter cabins
📚 Need cash in Japan? Check out this Japan ATM Withdrawal Guide to find out how
Estimated Fare Breakdown (Tokyo to Osaka One-Way only):
| Seat Type | Nozomi | Hikari/Kodama |
|---|---|---|
| Non-Reserved | 13,670 JPY – 14,270 JPY (~S$126 – S$132) | 13,870 JPY – 14,270 JPY (~S$128 – S$132) |
| Reserved | 14,520 JPY – 15,120 JPY (~S$134 – S$139) | 14,400 JPY – 14,800 JPY (~S$133 – S$137) |
| Green Car | ~20,000 JPY (~S$185) | ~19,590 JPY (~S$181) |
Note: Prices may vary slightly during festive seasons
📚 Find out how to best capitalise on the Japanese Yen!
Where to Buy Tickets
Image Credits: Novaland Tour
Depending on the type of traveller you are, there are different ways to get your Shinkansen tickets. At regular times, you should be able to get your tickets directly at the station.
But if you’re travelling in a bigger group and want to sit together, or if you’re travelling during peak festive seasons, it would be better to get your bullet train tickets in advance. Plus, there may be discounts available if you get your tickets beforehand.
1. Online Options
- JR East Online Reservation – Official website for tickets
- Klook – Shinkansen Tickets – Look out for discounts and save more when you check out with your YouTrip Card via YouTrip Perks
- Welcome Suica APP – Travel around Japan with a single app
2. At the Station
- Midori no Madoguchi (Green Ticket Counters)
- Automatic ticket machines (Available in different languages)
3. JR Pass
- With the Japan Rail Pass, tickets can be booked at ticket counters or machines in major stations
📚 Check out this ultimate Universal Studios Japan (USJ) guide
Using the JR Pass for the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Osaka
Image Credits: Japan Rail Pass
If you’re planning to travel around Japan quite a bit, the JR Pass might make more sense since train prices are not the cheapest. Just be sure to check that the train that you’re opting for is included in the pass.
How to use
- Purchase and activate the pass at major train stations or airports
- Use it to book reserved seats on Hikari or Kodama Trains for free
- Present the pass at the Shinkansen gates
Trains included with the JR Pass
- Included: Hikari, Kodama
- Not included: Nozomi (fastest train)
Tips:
- Book reserved seats early during festive seasons (e.g. Cherry blossom, Golden Week)
- Pair with local JR lines in Osaka and Tokyo for full-day value
- Use the JR pass for day trips to Kyoto or Nara to maximise savings
📚 Check out our full JR Pass guide here
Alternative Ways to Travel from Tokyo to Osaka
While taking the Shinkansen is one of the more scenic options, it definitely isn’t the most cost-effective. Here are some alternative ways to get to Osaka from Tokyo!
By Flight:
Image Credits: Peach Aviation
| Airlines | Price (One Way) | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peach, Jetstar, Skymark, ANA | 4,000 JPY – 10,000 JPY (~S$36 – S$90) | ~1 hour 15 mins | Add 2-3 hours for check-in + transfers |
Best for: Budget-conscious travellers but still looking for comfortable ways to get around. This option makes sense, especially if you are headed straight to Osaka after landing in Tokyo
📚 Discover 16 Best Things To Do In Fukuoka, Japan (2025): Attractions & Tips
By Bus:
Image credits: Klook
| Operator | Price (One Way) | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Willer, JR Bus, etc | Willer, JR Bus, etc | ~8-10 hours | Seats range from basic to premium sleeper buses |
Best for: Backpackers on a budget. An overnight sleeper bus also means paying for one night less at your accommodation!
📚 Discover Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan: The Ultimate Winter Wonderland Guide (2025)
By Local Train:
Image credits: Snowscat
| Route Type | Price (One Way) | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local + Rapid JR | ~8,000 JPY (S$72) | ~9 hours | Requires 5-6 transfers |
Best for: Those looking for the most scenic route on a budget. It’s not the most convenient, especially if you’re travelling with young kids, but definitely the best option if you are up for adventure.
📚 Here are 10 Must-Buy Items At Don Quijote In Japan 2025
FAQs:
Q: How long is the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Osaka?
The fastest Nozomi train takes ~2 hrs 30 mins.
Q: Shinkansen Tokyo to Osaka price?
From 13,620 JPY (~S$126) for non-reserved seats.
Q: Shinkansen Tokyo to Osaka timetable?
Departures every 3–10 mins for Nozomi, 30 mins for Hikari, 30–60 mins for Kodama.
Q: Is it better to book the Shinkansen in advance?
Yes, especially during peak seasons or group travel.
Q: Which Shinkansen is best from Tokyo to Osaka?
Nozomi for speed, Hikari for JR Pass users.
Q: Where to buy Shinkansen tickets online?
JR East Online, Klook, or Welcome Suica App.
Q: Shinkansen Tokyo to Osaka stops?
Tokyo / Shinagawa → Shin-Osaka, with possible stops at Nagoya & Kyoto.
Speed through Japan on the Shinkansen!
The Shinkansen Tokyo to Osaka is hands down the most efficient way to travel between Japan’s megacities. With high speed, comfort, and frequent departures, it beats flights and buses for convenience. Whether you book the Nozomi for speed or ride the Hikari with your JR Pass, you’ll be zipping across Japan in style.
✨ Pro tip: Lock in the best JPY exchange rates with YouTrip — skip the money changer and save more for your next ekiben.
Singapore’s go-to multi-currency wallet helps you save with great FX rates and zero fees. Skip the money changer and get a free YouTrip card + S$5 YouTrip credits with code <YTBLOG5>.
Then, head over to our YouTrip Perks page for exclusive offers and promotions — we promise you won’t regret it. Join our Telegram (@YouTripSG) and Community Group (@YouTripSquad) for travel tips, event invites, and more!
Happy travels!
Related Articles
39 Best Things To Do In Osaka (2025): Attractions, Activities, Day Trips
35 Best Things To Do In Tokyo: Local Picks, Iconic Spots (2025 Edition)
Nagano Travel Guide 2025: Things To Do, Weather, Ski Resorts & More
