Tokaido Shinkansen
Tokaido Shinkansen Complete Guide
Japan’s most popular high-speed railway (515 km). Learn which train to take, how much it costs, and how to get the best views.
Tokyo → Osaka | Route, Seats, Fares & Travel Tips
Quick Answer:
• Fastest train → Nozomi (≈2h 30m)
• Cheapest option → Kodama
• Best Mt. Fuji seat → Seat E (Tokyo → Osaka)
• Best section → Mishima → Shin-Fuji
• Fastest train → Nozomi (≈2h 30m)
• Cheapest option → Kodama
• Best Mt. Fuji seat → Seat E (Tokyo → Osaka)
• Best section → Mishima → Shin-Fuji
1. Overview
The Tokaido Shinkansen connects Tokyo and Osaka via Nagoya and Kyoto. Opened in 1964, it is Japan’s most important and busiest high-speed railway.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance | Approx. 515 km |
| Max Speed | 285 km/h |
| Opened | 1964 |
| Train Types | Nozomi / Hikari / Kodama |
2. Train Types
| Train | Speed | Stops | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nozomi | Fastest | Few | Time-saving travel |
| Hikari | Medium | Moderate | JR Pass users |
| Kodama | Slow | All stations | Budget / local travel |
3. Scenic Highlights
Mt. Fuji
The most iconic view. Visible between Mishima and Shin-Fuji.
Kyoto Tower
Appears just before arriving at Kyoto Station on the right side.
4. Stations
Main stations include:
- Tokyo
- Shinagawa
- Shin-Yokohama
- Nagoya
- Kyoto
- Shin-Osaka
5. Travel Times & Fares
| Route | Time (Nozomi) | Fare (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Tokyo → Nagoya | 1h 40m | ~¥11,300 |
| Tokyo → Kyoto | 2h 15m | ~¥13,500 |
| Tokyo → Osaka | 2h 30m | ~¥14,700 |
6. Travel Tips
Best Seats for Mt. Fuji
| Direction | Seat |
|---|---|
| Tokyo → Osaka | Seat E (Right) |
| Osaka → Tokyo | Seat A (Left) |
When to Avoid Crowds
Avoid mornings, evenings, and weekends. Midday trains are less crowded.
Power Outlets
N700S trains have outlets at every seat. Older trains only at window seats.
7. FAQ
- Q. Can I use JR Pass on Nozomi?
- No. JR Pass is valid on Hikari and Kodama only.
- Q. Do I need seat reservations?
- Recommended during peak seasons and weekends.