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What exactly is the Nozomi Shinkansen? Which places in Japan can be reached by Nozomi Shinkansen? Let Mytour show you how to buy tickets and ride the Nozomi Shinkansen!
If you only have a few precious days off, don’t waste time on travel when visiting Japan. The high-speed Nozomi Shinkansen is your perfect solution! With speeds of up to 300 km/h, Nozomi will take you from Tokyo to Osaka in just 2 hours and 30 minutes, 90 minutes faster than the regular Kodama train.
This article will provide you with all the information you need about the Nozomi Shinkansen, from the routes it operates on, to the covered train stations and how to book tickets. Let’s dive in!
What is the Nozomi Shinkansen?
You might be a little confused at first, but Nozomi is not a separate rail line. It is a type of high-speed train that operates on two major routes: the Tokaido Shinkansen and the Sanyo Shinkansen.
The Tokaido Shinkansen is the busiest rail line in Japan, connecting major cities like Tokyo, Yokohama, Nagoya, Kyoto, and Osaka. Meanwhile, the Sanyo Shinkansen extends the high-speed network westward from Shin-Osaka, stopping at key stations like Okayama and Hiroshima.
On the Tokaido line, there are three types of trains (Kodama, Hikari, and Nozomi), while the Sanyo line has five (Nozomi, Hikari, Kodama, Mizuho, and Sakura). These trains run on the same tracks but differ in the number of stops, which results in varying travel times. Nozomi is also the fastest service on the Tokaido Shinkansen, surpassing Kodama and Hikari with only 6 stops.
For example, here are the travel times for each train type from Tokyo Station to Shin-Osaka Station:
- Nozomi Train: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Hikari Train: 3 hours
- Kodama Train: 4 hours
Tip: To reach Osaka via the Tokaido-Sanyo line, you need to stop at Shin-Osaka Station.
Which Stations are Served by the Nozomi Shinkansen?
The Nozomi Shinkansen serves 12 major stations on the Tokaido and Sanyo lines, including:
- Tokyo
- Shinagawa
- Shin-Yokohama
- Nagoya
- Kyoto
- Shin-Osaka
- Okayama
- Hiroshima
- Kokura
- Hakata
- Kumamoto
- Kagoshima-Chuo
From Tokyo Station, a Nozomi Shinkansen departs every 10 minutes heading west. Meanwhile, from Hakata Station, trains depart eastward approximately every 15 minutes.
Everything You Need to Know About Buying Nozomi Shinkansen Tickets
You can purchase Nozomi tickets from ticket vending machines or staffed ticket counters at JR stations. Vending machines usually have an English-language interface and accept payment by cash or credit card.
If you prefer to book in advance, you can buy tickets online through websites such as JR Central, Smart EX, or travel agencies like Mytour.
Is the Nozomi Shinkansen Included in the JR Pass Service?
Unfortunately, the JR Pass does not include the Nozomi Shinkansen. You will need to purchase a supplementary ticket to ride the Nozomi. Tickets can be bought at Shinkansen vending machines or staffed ticket counters at JR stations.
Here are the additional ticket fees for some of the popular routes on the Tokaido-Sanyo line:
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(*) This additional fee applies not only to standard seat tickets (both reserved and non-reserved) but also to Green Car tickets. You can find a full list of the additional fees for Nozomi trains here.
What Are the Seating Classes on the Nozomi Shinkansen: Ordinary or Green Car?
Most Shinkansen trains offer two classes of seats - Ordinary Car (standard seats) and Green Car (premium seats).
Ordinary seats are essentially the economy class on Japanese trains. This is the more budget-friendly option, featuring a 3-2 seating arrangement. Many travelers find ordinary seats to be quite comfortable. You can choose between reserved and non-reserved seats in this class.
However, if you prefer more comfort and privacy, opt for the Green Car (first class)! These seats are arranged in a 2-2 configuration, offering more space and the ability to recline up to 40 degrees. The legroom is more generous, and the headrests are softer—perfect for a restful sleep. All seats in the Green Car require a reservation. Both ordinary and Green Car seats provide space for luggage and free Wi-Fi.
Should You Reserve a Seat on the Nozomi Shinkansen?
When planning your trip on the Nozomi Shinkansen, you can choose between reserved seats and non-reserved seats (available only in ordinary class).
Reserved seats guarantee you a specific spot on the train. It's recommended to reserve in advance, especially during peak travel times.
Non-reserved seats operate on a 'first-come, first-served' basis. If you're traveling with a non-reserved ticket, it's best to arrive at the station early to improve your chances of finding a seat.
#MytourTip: Download the Japan Travel by NAVITIME app to check train routes and schedules. The app will also guide you on which platform to go to!
Tuyến đường | Giá tham khảo |
Tokyo/Shinagawa – Nagoya | ¥4,180 |
Tokyo/Shinagawa – Kyoto | ¥4,960 |
Tokyo/Shinagawa – Shin-Osaka | ¥4,960 |
Tokyo/Shinagawa – Hiroshima | ¥6,500 |
Shin-Osaka – Hakata | ¥4,960 |
Hakata – Kagoshima-Chūō | ¥4,500 |
How to Reserve Seats on the Nozomi Shinkansen
To make a reservation, visit any JR ticket office (Midori no Madoguchi) at most JR stations across Japan. Alternatively, you can use the online booking service of JR East or the SmartEX app, both available in English.
When making a reservation, choose the departure date and time, seating class, and the number of passengers. After completing the process, you will receive a reservation ticket along with your regular ticket. Be sure to keep both tickets, as you'll need to show them when boarding.
#MytourTip: If you want to catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji while traveling on the Tokaido Shinkansen, choose a seat on the right side when traveling from Tokyo to Osaka, and on the left side when traveling from Osaka to Tokyo.
How to Send Luggage on the Nozomi Shinkansen
On the Nozomi Shinkansen, passengers can store their luggage in the overhead compartments or reserve space for larger items.
Note:
- Each passenger is allowed to carry up to two pieces of luggage, excluding small handbags.
- Each piece of luggage should not exceed 30 kg in weight.
- The total width, height, and depth of each piece of luggage must be less than 250 cm.
- Passengers with oversized luggage (total dimensions greater than 160 cm) should reserve seats with nearby storage space in advance.
- If you bring oversized luggage without a reservation, you may have to pay a 1,000 yen luggage fee per oversized item.
Book Nozomi Shinkansen Tickets on Mytour: Fast and Convenient
Booking Nozomi Shinkansen tickets has never been easier! You can purchase tickets directly at stations in Japan or book them online through Mytour to save time and effort.
How to Book Shinkansen Tickets on Mytour
- Enter your departure and arrival points.
- Choose your departure date.
- Select your preferred departure time.
- Note that the type of train (Nozomi, Kodama, and Hikari) will be clearly listed for each departure option. You will also see the different pricing for seat categories - Ordinary Car (Non-reserved and Reserved) and Green Car.
How to Change Your Shinkansen Ticket in Japan
Once you purchase your Nozomi Shinkansen ticket, activating it is very simple. You will receive:
- A confirmation email from Mytour
- A QR code to collect your ticket
- Detailed instructions on how to use the QR code to collect your Shinkansen ticket
On the day of your departure, arrive a little early at the Shinkansen station and follow these steps:
- Find a SmartEx machine or a JR Tokai ticket vending machine.
- Scan the QR code and follow the instructions on the machine.
- Collect your paper tickets (two tickets per passenger).
- Find your platform and enjoy your Shinkansen journey!
Tip for #teamMytour: Book your tickets online in advance via Mytour to avoid worrying about purchasing tickets upon arrival in Japan. This way, you'll enjoy a stress-free and budget-friendly Japan trip aboard the Nozomi Shinkansen.
Now, you have all the essential information you need for an unforgettable experience aboard the Nozomi Shinkansen! Get ready to travel on this high-speed marvel, enjoy top-notch comfort, and explore new destinations in Japan quickly and comfortably. Don’t forget to book your tickets in advance to ensure you have a seat and make the most of your journey!
Check out Mytour’s Japan-related posts for more helpful information: 'Detailed 14-Day Japan Travel Itinerary,' 'Famous Osaka Tourist Attractions You Should Visit,' 'Top Hokkaido Tourist Spots for Self-Guided Travelers,' 'Updated Tips for Self-Guided Japan Travel,' 'How to Travel on the Joetsu Shinkansen to Niigata,' 'Beginner’s Guide to Go-Karting in Japan,' 'How Much Does a Trip to Japan Cost? Budget Travel Tips,' 'Famous Shopping Malls in Tokyo, Japan,' and 'Beautiful Kyoto Tourist Spots That Are More Stunning Than Paintings.'
It’s time to start your Japan adventure aboard the Nozomi Shinkansen!
