Train Tickets from Tokyo to Osaka

Upon arrival, Shin-Osaka Station is the main gateway to the vibrant city's many things to do, see, and especially eat. From the iconic Dotonbori neighborhood, with its street food and neon-lit huge storefronts, to Osaka's many bustling shopping streets such as the famous Kuromon Market, or the historic Osaka castle, the city offers a perfect blend of Japan's preserved past and distinctly modern lifestyle.

And with Osaka being in the heart of the Kansai region, it's also the gateway to many other regional treasures, from the shores of Lake Biwa to the Amanohashidate coast, to the popular day trip destination Nara and its deer roaming free in temple grounds or the traditional, beautiful and historic city of Kyoto, the old capital of Japan. 

Note: Shin-Osaka Station may not be the last stop on this Shinkansen line that can continue to Kyoto, Kobe, Hiroshima, or even Hakata (Fukuoka). Please be mindful of the stops in order to get off at the right station. 

The Tokaido Shinkansen Line is operated by Japan Railways (JR), the largest rail company in Japan. Tickets booked with Japan Experience are issued through an official partnership with JR West, meaning you are dealing directly with the train operator that will take you from Tokyo to Shin-Osaka.

On the way from Tokyo to Osaka, we highly recommend you book a window seat with a view on Mount Fuji, to admire one of Japan's most iconic views from its modern landmark, the Shinkansen bullet train!

Please note that during peak travel seasons, we may have to change your train to another one up to 15 minutes earlier or later than the original booking to ensure a window seat reservation.

Different types of available Shinkansen

To get from Tokyo to Osaka, you can choose between three types of Shinkansen high-speed bullet trains: Hikari, Kodama and Nozomi. Hikari trains make fewer stops, and take around 2 hours and 40 minutes to complete the trip. Kodama stops at more stations, and thus the Tokyo to Osaka journey takes a little over 3 hours and 40 minutes. The Nozomi is the fastest of the options, being an express service, but it'll cost you more. This Shinkansen also operates only with reserved seats. 

No matter the type of train, reclinable seats, overhead storage, power outlets, and more are available on board! You can be sure that traveling by Shinkansen from Tokyo to Osaka will be both efficient and comfortable. Be sure to research all seat and car options to book the train ticket adapted to your travel needs. 

How to get to Tokyo Station

Tokyo Station is located in central Tokyo and is at the crossroads of many public transportation lines, being the main departing station for Shinkansen trains in Tokyo. Multiple JR lines, such as the Yamanote, Chuo, Keiyo or Sobu lines, stop at Tokyo Station. The Marunouchi subway line, as well as several bus lines and airport transfer options, also stop at Tokyo Station. 

Where to go from Shin-Osaka Station 

Osaka's main train station, Shin-Osaka, is located in Higashi-Yodogawa ward and is served by multiple local public transportation lines from JR serving the Osaka metropolitan area as well as the broader Kansai area. The Midosuji and Osaka East Line subway lines also stops at Shin-Osaka. All these lines will connect you in a breeze to the two other major rail stations in the city, Osaka-Umeda and Namba. Multiple bus lines also depart from or have stops at Shin-Osaka station.

How far in advance can I book train tickets?

You can book train tickets in Japan between 9 months prior to your train's departure date and 3 days before departure. 

Is there a special train ticket fare for children?

Yes, there are special fares applicable for children. Ages 12 and up are considered adults, but kids aged from 6 to 11 benefit from a reduced child fare. Children under the age of 6 travel for free. This free fare is limited to 2 tickets, meaning any additional child under 6 will then pay the classic child fare. 

How to use your train tickets in Japan? 

To use your Shinkansen e-tickets once you have received them, simply head to Tokyo Station and scan your QR code at the Shinkansen gates at Yaesu exits, and head to the right platform to hop on your train. 

Please note that your QR code will not scan at other ticket gates than Shinkansen ticket gates, which means you may need to exit the station and re-enter through the Shinkansen zone, depending on the following cases. 

If you arrive to Tokyo Station by a JR line: 

If you have a prepaid IC card or paper JR tickets, you can transfer from the JR local lines area to the JR Shinkansen area. First scan your Shinkansen e-ticket, then tap your prepaid card (or insert your paper tickets). The gates will open on this second action. 

If you are arriving in Tokyo Station via subway lines: 

You need to exit the station first, and then re-enter via the Shinkansen gates at Yaesu exits.

On board the train, find the seat number that is on your e-ticket if you have a seat reservation, and enjoy the ride! 

Once you've arrived in Osaka, scan the QR code again at the Shinkansen gates upon exiting Shin-Osaka Station, and the city is now yours to explore. 

If you need to transfer to a JR local line, you need to exit the Shinkansen gates first, and then purchase local tickets - or use your prepaid IC card to travel by scanning directly at the transfer gates.

Eligibility

All persons above the age of 12, with no restrictions of residence status or nationality, are eligible to purchase individual train tickets (unlike the Japan Rail Pass and some JR regional passes, for example). Japanese individuals as well as foreigners living in Japan can thus purchase train tickets online. Under the age of 12, the aforementioned child fare conditions apply. 

Validity of train tickets

Train tickets issued are only valid for the date and time indicated on your booking, and are to be used only on the Tokyo to Osaka service.