Going on an adventure from Tokyo to Osaka offers you a journey through Japan's captivating landscapes and vibrant culture.
Whether you're a first-time traveller or a seasoned explorer, choosing the best transport option can make of break your travel experience. From Shinkansen bullet and regular trains, highway buses, domestic flights, and car rentals, discover your favourite fast way to travel from Tokyo to Osaka in style!
In this guide, you'll find the best ways to get to and from Tokyo and Osaka quick and that makes sense for you.
1. Bullet Train or Shinkansen from Tokyo to Osaka
All aboard the bullet train! Transport yourself from Tokyo to Osaka in no time!
The fastest way to get from Tokyo to Osaka is to take the Nozomi Shinkansen on the Tokaido Shinkansen. It takes only 2 hours and 30 minutes to get from Tokyo Station to Shin-Osaka Station. A one-way travel costs 13,620 YEN (for unreserved seats) or 14,650 YEN (reserved seats). You can also use your JR Pass for this for an additional fee.
So for those going to Osaka, a bullet train may be your best bet. It also offers travellers like you comfort without sacrificing your time.
The Nozomi trains can reach a speed of up to 320 kilometres per hour (200 mph). This dramatic reduction in travel time has made long-distance commuting and business trips a piece of cake, making you feel like you're travelling shorter distances between major cities.
Operating on a remarkably precise schedule, the Shinkansens always arrive on time, so don't be late or you'll miss your train!
The travel time between Tokyo and Osaka on the Tokaido Shinkansen is approximately 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on the type of Shinkansen and the number of stops.
There are three types of bullet trains to get from Tokyo to Osaka. Here's a quick overview:
Nozomi is the fastest type of Shinkansen with limited stops.
Hikari is the middle-tier Shinkansen service in terms of speed, with more stops compared to Nozomi.
Kodama is the local service on the Shinkansen lines, stopping at most stations, resulting in longer travel times.
Amenities on the shinkansens include restrooms, vending machines, power outlets, and overhead storage for both green cars and ordinary cars.
Nozomi Shinkansen
The Nozomi Shinkansen is a high-speed bullet train service in Japan that operates on the Tokaido and Sanyo Shinkansen lines, connecting major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Fukuoka.
The Nozomi Shinkansen covers the distance between Tokyo and Osaka in approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes to 2 hours and 50 minutes, depending on specific departure and arrival stations.
This high-speed train service offers one of the quickest travel times between these two major cities in Japan, making it an efficient choice for travellers looking to swiftly travel the distance between Tokyo and Osaka.
But, due to its rapid pace and limited stops, certain amenities typically available on other Shinkansen services, such as onboard food and beverage services, may not be offered on Nozomi trains.
Hikari Shinkansen
With fewer stops than the Nozomi trains, the Hikari Shinkansen operates at high speed between major cities. It is a swift and efficient option for medium-distance routes, taking 2.5 to 3 hours from Tokyo Station to Shin-Osaka Station.
Kodama Shinkansen
The Kodama Shinkansen is the local train equivalent of the three bullet trains. The Kodama Shinkansen stops at all stations along its route, making it suitable for shorter-distance travel and providing connectivity between various destinations. Travel time between Tokyo Station and Shin-Osaka Station ranges from 3 to 3.5 hours.
Green Class
Your journey is just about to get a lot more luxurious. A reserved seat awaits you in the Green Car with reclining features and more legroom.
There are also attendants around to offer drinks and light snacks. Designed to offer more privacy, this option may be more suitable for business travellers or those looking for a more relaxed atmosphere.
The catch is Green Car seats usually go for 1.5 to 2 times the price of an Ordinary Class seat.
Ordinary Class
As a cost-effective and comfortable way to travel, the Ordinary Class is the top choice for the majority of travellers. Accommodating different groups, seats include the standard individual arrangement as well as tables for bigger groups or families.
While not as spacious as Green Car seats, Ordinary Class seats are still designed for comfortable travel, with reclining options on some trains. Most of the seats are also unreserved, operating on a first-come, first-served basis. Watch out during peak season, it tends to get busier and more difficult to secure a seat!
Shinkansen tickets can be purchased at ticket counters at major train stations, ticket machines, or online.
Is it better to fly or train from Tokyo to Osaka?
Both are good options, but taking the shinkansen to Osaka from Tokyo is the better option for foreign travellers. While flying takes arguably less time, you also have to take into consideration the commute from your hotel to the airport, flight check-ins, security checks, and hoping and praying that your flight doesn't get delayed.
Meanwhile, when you take the shinkansen, you can just hop on aboard the bullet train and zoom your way through the country and straight to Osaka.
2. Regular train to Osaka
Caption: So many trains to choose from, take your pick! Credits: @topologiraffe on Unsplash
While the Shinkansen system is renowned for its high-speed travel between major cities, you may want to consider regular trains instead as a cheaper option.
Want to learn more about all things trains in Japan? Make the most of your train ride and check out our comprehensive guide to Japan’s rail network.
Local Train
If you’re not in a time crunch and are looking for convenient access to various neighbourhoods, consider the local trains!
Most commonly used for short-distance travel within a city or region, they stop at most or all stations along its route. Considering the frequent stops and transfers, travel time from Tokyo Station to JR Osaka Station ranges from around 8 to 9 hours.
Limited Express Train
With over 100 different kinds, the limited express train offers a balance between speed and accessibility, making it ideal for moderately longer journeys with fewer stops solely at major Japanese stations. The estimated travel time from Tokyo to Osaka is around 8 to 9 hours.
Express Train
Express trains cover main airport transfers like Haneda International Airport (Tokyo Monorail), Narita International Airport (Narita Express), and Kansai International Airport (Haruka Express).
Unlike the local train, these trains skip some intermediate stations, cutting the travel time down to 7 to 8 hours.
Rapid Train
Similar to the express train, rapid trains also skip a few more stations. Known for the efficient commute it offers between regions, the estimated travel time goes from around 6 to 7 hours.
For local, limited express, express, and rapid trains, seating capacity is limited (especially during rush hour) but there are handles to grip while standing up.
Priority seats are also available for those who need them. Additionally, a huge perk that comes with taking the regular trains is all the beautiful views you can see. Check out these eight train rides with the best sceneries.
Here’s a pro tip to make the most of your travels: get a Japan Rail Pass to unlock access to unlimited rides on JR trains encompassing local, express, rapid, Hikari, and Kodama bullet trains for 7, 14, or 21 days!
To enjoy a smooth and hassle-free journey, purchase your JR Passes online before arriving in Japan, so you have your pass ready when you land.
3. Highway bus from Tokyo to Osaka
Caption: Romanticise your life, take the highway bus! Credits: @ksukkuri on Unsplash
Highway buses are designed to cover longer distances, connecting major cities, towns, and tourist destinations. They often operate on expressways, guaranteeing faster travel compared to regular buses.
Unlike most train journeys, there's no need to worry about the hassle of constantly changing lines. Highway buses often operate on direct routes without the need for transfers.
Our expert advice? Book the night bus. Compared to booking a train ticket or domestic flight, night buses are cheaper. Some highway bus routes offer picturesque views of landscapes and natural beauty you can easily gaze at for hours—the perfect opportunity to live your main character moment!
Don’t worry about the amenities! Many highway buses are equipped with amenities such as reclining seats, restrooms, power outlets, and free Wi-Fi. While you’re at it, you might as well catch up on some sleep!
Depending on traffic, chosen routes, and stops, the travel time from Tokyo to Osaka takes around 8 to 10 hours.
4. Fly to Osaka from Tokyo
Caption: Fly through the skies and reach your destination in no time! Credits: @marcusxsnapz on Unsplash
Up, up, and away! Aeroplanes offer a level of comfort, including reclining seats and in-flight services, that can be appealing for longer journeys.
Japan Airlines (JAL) and All Nippon Airways (ANA) are the two major and most prominent airlines in Japan, offering a wide range of flight options, schedules, and routes for domestic travel. Here are the different class options you can avail of:
First Class
If comfort is your number one priority, this is exactly what the first-class experience will offer during your journey. Enjoy spacious seating with extra legroom, premium in-flight meals, and personal entertainment systems with a wide range of content.
Additionally, the convenience of priority services such as expedited check-in, swift boarding, and efficient baggage handling makes it an even more luxurious journey.
Business Class
Taste the premium experience of First Class without creating a huge dent in your wallet. For a short flight such as this, Business Class may be a smarter option between the two. You can also expect enhanced meal and beverage options, personal entertainment systems, and priority check-in and boarding.
Premium Economy Class
True to its name, the Premium Economy Class is the economical choice that presents an elevated experience compared to the lowest tier. The standard seats are slightly wider with more legroom, meal options are improved, and screens are larger for entertainment.
Economy Class
As the most affordable option, Economy Class still guarantees a comfortable cabin environment. You can expect standard seating with adjustable headrests, complimentary meals, and limited entertainment selections.
Travel time
Domestic flights between Tokyo and Osaka are the fastest mode of transportation. Direct flights to Osaka Itami Airport and Kansai International Airport can take around 1 to 1.5 hours, significantly shorter than train or bus travel.
However, Tokyo Haneda Airport and Narita International Airport are located at two almost opposite ends of city centres. You need to factor in the time it takes to travel to and from airports and go through security, and check-in procedures.
Want a life hack for cheap flights? Book tickets before peak season comes around.
5. Rent a car from Tokyo to Osaka
Travel from Tokyo to Osaka at your own pace and with your own rules! Credits: @robmaxwell on Unsplash
Renting a car allows you to create your own Tokyo-to-Osaka journey and explore attractions along the way that might not be accessible by other modes of transportation.
You can choose your departure time, take detours, and experience the journey on your own terms. For families or groups of friends travelling together, renting a car can be cost-effective and convenient, especially when dividing the expenses.
In Tokyo, you can pick up and drop off your cars at major stations like Tokyo Station, Shinagawa Station, Ueno Station, Haneda Airport, or Narita Airport. You can book a rental car online in advance, allowing you to compare prices, vehicle types, and services. Make sure you have the following with you:
- Driver’s licence
- Credit card
- Valid ID
- Printed voucher
- International Driver's permit
Driving between Tokyo and Osaka can take around 6 to 8 hours, depending on the route and traffic. Keep this in mind before deciding which type of vehicle to book.
If you’re looking for a sign to book that one-way trip from Tokyo to Osaka, this is it! With these efficient inter-city travel tips, you can discover the best way to travel in style.
Don’t forget, the journey itself can become an exploration of Japan's diverse landscapes and cultures beyond all the main sights.
Written by: Celestine Chua
![[Updated] Complete List Of Official Nationwide MCO SOP 2021](https://res.klook.com/image/upload/fl_lossy.progressive,q_85/c_fill,w_160,h_104/v1633858858/blog/iso56uzsphmdguixkvzh.jpg)
![[Updated] Complete List Of Official Nationwide MCO SOP 2021](https://res.klook.com/image/upload/fl_lossy.progressive,q_85/c_fill,w_410,h_264/v1633858858/blog/iso56uzsphmdguixkvzh.jpg)
