The Kodama Shinkansen is one of the three main services on the Tokaido and Sanyo Shinkansen lines, Japan’s iconic high-speed railway connecting Tokyo and Osaka and Fukuoka.
Trains & Transportation
This section of our blog is dedicated to the public transportation in Japan, available for free to all Japan Rail Pass holders.
If you want to learn more about how to locate and take your trains from Tokyo or Kyoto stations; how to arrive in central Tokyo from Narita Airport, by taking the Narita Express (N’EX); how to ride the JR buses in the major cities or take the Miyajima ferry from Hiroshima, this section is for you.
You will also enjoy a number of comprehensive routes on how to arrive from one city to another; where to look for accurate online timetables; where and how to transfer between stations and more.
Hikari Shinkansen: Fast and Accessible Shinkansen Travel
The Hikari Shinkansen is one of the main bullet trains that runs on the Tokaido and Sanyo Shinkansen line, connecting Tokyo with cities like Kyoto, Osaka, and Okayama.
This train service offers a perfect balance between speed, comfort, and accessibility, especially for travelers using the Japan Rail Pass.
Nozomi Shinkansen: Fastest bullet train service in Japan
The Nozomi Shinkansen (のぞみ, translates to “hope” or “wish”) is the fastest and most direct bullet train service on the Tokaido Shinkansen and Sanyo Shinkansen lines.
Operated by JR Central and JR West, it connects Tokyo to Hakata Station in Fukuoka. This service stops only at major cities.
JR East to Launch New Sleeper Express Train to Northern Tohoku in 2027
Japan’s love affair with night trains is about to get a stylish revival. JR East has confirmed plans to introduce a brand-new overnight sleeper express train in 2027, linking Tokyo with the serene landscapes of northern Tohoku.
For rail travel enthusiasts, it’s an exciting step that blends nostalgic charm with modern comfort, reminiscent of the iconic Blue Trains, but designed with today’s travelers in mind.
Travel from Kyoto to Tokyo by Shinkansen and bus
The journey from Kyoto to Tokyo is one of Japan’s busiest travel routes. With your JR Pass, it’s easy to make the trip in just a few hours on the Tokaido Shinkansen.
Travel from Tokyo to Osaka: Best ways to travel
Travelling between Tokyo and Osaka is quick and convenient. The 2 cities are linked by frequent bullet trains, making it easy to include both in your Japan itinerary.
This guide covers the different ways to travel from Tokyo to Osaka, including bullet train services and other transport options. You’ll also find journey times, ticket prices, and useful travel tips.