How long does the full journey take?

The total journey takes about 1h40 to 2h, split between about 1h15-1h30 on the Thunderbird to Tsuruga and a short Shinkansen ride of about 15 to 20 minutes to Fukui.

Was this journey simpler before 2024?

Yes, before March 2024 the Thunderbird connected Osaka/Shin-Osaka directly to Fukui with no changes; this journey now requires a connection at Tsuruga because of the extension of the Shinkansen Hokuriku, but remains fully covered by the JR Pass national.

What is the current route between Shin-Osaka and Fukui?

Since the extension of the Shinkansen Hokuriku to Tsuruga came into service in March 2024, this journey now requires a change: the limited express Thunderbird connects Shin-Osaka to Tsuruga, and you then need to take the Shinkansen Hokuriku (Tsurugi shuttle) to Fukui.

Where does the connection take place?

The connection takes place at Tsuruga station, the current northern terminus of the Thunderbird and the starting point of the Shinkansen Hokuriku towards Fukui.

Ticket - Train - Osaka - Fukui

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*the price displayed is for dedicated seats; children under 6 and babies can be seated on adults'lap free of charge.

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Itinerary Osaka › Fukui

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On this route, the Kosei Line runs alongside a part of Shiga Prefecture: look to your left to intermittently catch glimpses of Lake Biwa, Japan's largest freshwater lake, and perhaps the large red torii gate of Shirahige Shrine, which appears to float on the water.