How to Travel from Tokyo to Shin-Osaka by Shinkansen – Complete Bullet Train Guide

Published on July 25, 2025
Last updated on July 31, 2025

Tokyo to Osaka (Shin-Osaka) Shinkansen Timetable and Schedule

• Shinkansen Nozomi Train

• The fastest train, Nozomi takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes from Tokyo to Shin-Osaka.
• Nozomi trains run frequently (every 10 minutes at peak times) and stop at major stations only.
• The earliest departure: 6:00 am (arriving Shin-Osaka at 8:22 am)
• The latest departure: 9:24 pm (arriving Shin-Osaka at 11:45 pm)
  Note: Japan Rail Pass is not valid on Nozomi.

• Shinkansen Hikari Train

• Hikari trains are slower than Nozomi, taking about 3 hours.
• It stops at more stations than Nozomi but is covered by the Japan Rail Pass.
• Runs about 2 times per hour.
• The earliest departure: 6:21 am (arriving Shin-Osaka at 9:21 am)
• The latest departure: 8:12 pm (arriving Shin-Osaka at 11:15 pm)

• Shinkansen Kodama Train

• Kodama stops at all stations and takes about 4 hours.
• Recommended only if you're getting on/off at smaller stations or want a quieter ride.
• Also covered by the Japan Rail Pass.

At Shinkansen-ticket.com, we book Shinkansen Nozomi train.

>BOOK Shinkansen from Tokyo to Shin-Osaka now.

Tokyo to Osaka (Shin-Osaka) Shinkansen Ticket

To travel by Shinkansen, you will need the following tickets:

• Basic Fare Ticket: Covers the standard fare between Tokyo and Osaka.
• Express Ticket: Required for Shinkansen use. Price varies by train type.
• Reserved Seat Ticket (Optional): Guarantees a reserved seat.
• Green Reserved Seat Ticket (Optional): First-class seat in the Green Car with more space and comfort.

At Shinkansen-ticket.com, All tickets are included.

Tokyo to Osaka (Shin-Osaka) Shinkansen Seat Type and Preferences

• Seat Classes
• Green Reserved Seat: Premium, spacious seating in the Green Car.
• Reserved Seat: Standard seat with guaranteed reservation.
• Unreserved Seat: First-come, first-served. May be crowded during peak travel times.
• Mt. Fuji View Seat
• To enjoy a view of Mt. Fuji, please request Mt. Fuji side when traveling from Tokyo to Shin-Osaka
• Seat with Oversized Luggage Space
• If your luggage exceeds 160 cm in total dimensions, please request Seat with oversized luggage space

Tip for Mt. Fuji view on the way to Shin-Osaka

In good weather, you can see Mt. Fuji from shinkansen on your way to Shin-Osaka. The best seat to see Mt. Fuji is window-side seats on the right hand.
The best time to see Mt. Fuji is approximately 44 minutes after departing Tokyo station. Please check windows on the right-hand side.

Shinkansen Station Guide: Tokyo to Shin-Osaka

• Departure Stations:
• Tokyo Central Station: Main departure point in central Tokyo, well-connected by JR and metro lines.
• Shinagawa Station: Convenient if staying in southern Tokyo or near Haneda Airport.
• Arrival Station:
• Shin-Osaka Station (Osaka Shinkansen Station): The Shinkansen terminal in Osaka. From here, transfer to local JR or subway lines to reach central Osaka areas such as Umeda, Namba, or Shinsaibashi.

Transportation Options from Tokyo to Osaka

• By Train: Tokaido Shinkansen
  • Fastest and most popular way to travel.
  • Multiple train options (Nozomi, Hikari, Kodama).
  • Travel time: 2.5–4 hours depending on train type.
• By Train: Local Train
  • Not recommended for long-distance travel.
  • Takes 9+ hours and multiple transfers required.
• By Air (Flight)
  • Several flights daily from Tokyo to Osaka
  • Airports:
    • Kansai International Airport (KIX)
    • Itami Airport (Osaka Itami/ITM)
  • Flight time: ~ 1 hour
  • Total travel time including airport transfer: ~3~4 hours
  • Not as time-efficient as the Shinkansen for central-to-central ravel.
• By Highway Bus
  • Budget-friendly option.
  • Takes about 8-9 hours depending on traffic.
  • Overnight buses available.
• By Car
  • Distance: 500–550 km.
  • Drive time: 6–7 hours (without rest or traffic).
  • Toll fees and fuel costs apply.
  • Recommended only for those comfortable with Japanese roads and traffic rules.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Osaka

Q: How long does the Shinkansen take from Tokyo to Osaka?
A: The Nozomi train takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes. The Hikari and Kodama trains take more as it stops more stations.

Q: Are there coin lockers at Shin-Osaka Station?
A: Yes, Shin-Osaka Station has many coin lockers for different luggage sizes, and also manned baggage storage services.

Q: Can I use the Japan Rail Pass on the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Osaka?
A: Yes, but only on Hikari and Kodama trains. Nozomi is not covered by the Japan Rail Pass.

Q: Which station in Osaka does the Shinkansen arrive at?
A: All Shinkansen trains arrive at Shin-Osaka Station. You can transfer to the Osaka Metro or JR lines to reach popular areas like Umeda or Namba.

Q: Is the Shinkansen faster than flying from Tokyo to Osaka?
A: Yes, especially for central-to-central travel. While flights take about 1 hour, total travel time (including airport transfers and check-in) is around 3-4 hours, compared to 2.5-3 hours on the Shinkansen.

>BOOK Shinkansen from Tokyo to Shin-Osaka now.