Fastest & Cheapest Ways to Travel! A Guide to Getting from Tokyo to Osaka

Although trains run roughly every 15 minutes, the trip takes longer than from Osaka International Airport.
If you board the limited-express HARUKA (about every 30 minutes), however, the journey takes approximately 55 minutes.

Several transport options are available, but the highly convenient airport limousine bus is outlined here.
Depending on the bus route, you can alight at stops such as Osaka Marubiru, Hotel new Hankyu, and HERBIS OSAKA—so get off at the stop closest to your destination.
If you wish to minimize cost, transferring from the Osaka Monorail to Hankyu Railway is recommended.

On popular routes and during peak seasons, buses fill up quickly, so book early.
When booking, choose a seat type suited to your body size and preferences, and check the cancellation policy and regulations.
Some companies impose restrictions on carry-on items and luggage stored in the hold—verify these in advance.
Because buses are easily affected by road and weather conditions, plan a schedule with ample buffer time.
As long as you observe common courtesy while on board, you will be fine: avoid phone calls while the bus is moving, avoid disturbing others with loud audio, and kindly inform the person behind you before reclining your seat.
Eating and drinking are generally allowed, but avoid alcohol and strongly odorous foods as a matter of etiquette.

To ride the Shinkansen, you will need two types of tickets: a basic fare ticket, which covers the distance traveled, and a limited express ticket, which allows you to board the Shinkansen itself.
Furthermore, limited express tickets are divided into Reserved Limited Express tickets, which allow you to select your seat in advance, and Non-Reserved Limited Express tickets, which let you choose any available seat.
For example, the 13,870 yen non-reserved fare consists of a base fare of 8,910 yen and a limited express charge of 4,960 yen.
Tickets can be purchased at ticket machines, travel agencies, official websites, or at the JR Ticket Office (Midori-no-madoguchi). When entering the ticket gates, be sure to insert both your base fare and limited express tickets together, and make sure to retrieve them afterward.
Note that Shinkansen gates are separate from regular train gates, so take care not to enter the wrong one. Once you arrive at the platform, use the electronic displays or announcements to confirm your train’s name and number—such as Nozomi ○○ or Hikari ○○—as well as the correct track number.
If you have a reserved seat, head to the car number indicated on your ticket. If you're using a non-reserved seat, it's a good idea to line up early in the designated non-reserved seating area.

You may bring up to two pieces of luggage (each under 30 kg) onto the train free of charge.
However, if the total dimensions (length + width + height) of any item are between 160 cm and 250 cm, you must reserve a seat with an oversized baggage area or a seat with an oversized baggage compartment in advance.
These seats do not incur any additional fee, but if you board without a reservation, you will be charged a 1,000 yen handling fee.
As a temporary measure starting July 1, 2025, certain deck areas equipped with oversized baggage compartments may be used without a reservation.
During this trial period, however, seats with an oversized baggage compartment cannot be reserved.
If you are traveling with oversized luggage, be sure to reserve a seat with an oversized baggage area instead.
Note: Some items, such as strollers and sports equipment, may be exempt. Items exceeding 250 cm in total dimensions are not allowed on board.
Please be mindful of others during the ride. Avoid loud conversations or behavior that may disturb fellow passengers. Keep phone calls brief and limited to the ends of the cars.
Enjoy your journey by reading, watching videos, or engaging in other quiet activities while being considerate of those around you.

One more thing to keep in mind when using the Shinkansen is the distinction between Shin-Osaka Station and Osaka Station.
The Shinkansen stops at Shin-Osaka Station, which is located just north of Osaka’s city center.
Osaka Station, on the other hand, is located in the city center and serves as a major hub for transportation within and beyond the city.
Traveling from Shin-Osaka to Osaka Station takes about 5 minutes via either the JR Kyoto Line (Tokaido Line) or the JR Ōsaka Higashi Line.

If you are a foreign visitor planning to rent a car in Japan, you will need a valid driver’s license from your home country, along with either an official Japanese translation of the license or an international driving permit.
Since not all countries and license types are recognized for driving in Japan, it is highly recommended to confirm your eligibility before your trip to Japan.
A passport and credit card are also often required for car rentals, so make sure to have both with you.
When picking up the car, check the details of the insurance coverage and inspect the condition of the vehicle. Upon returning the car, it is standard practice to refill the gas tank beforehand.
While driving in Japan, it is important to follow basic traffic rules. Vehicles drive on the left side of the road, and pedestrians always have the right of way. Seatbelts must be worn by all passengers, and parking on the street is generally prohibited.
If you are involved in an accident or encounter any trouble, contact the police by dialing 110, and also inform the rental car company immediately. Follow their instructions carefully to handle the situation appropriately.