5 Easy Ways: Travel from Tokyo to Osaka

Global Team
17 Aug 2024 - 4 min read
Himeji Castle and full cherry blossom, with Fuji mountain background, Japan

Having a wonderful experience in Tokyo makes you crave to enjoy another city in Japan. So, here is the easy way to travel from Tokyo to Osaka. Basically, many people might be thinking about using Shinkansen. But, there are still many transportation options for you, such as by plane or car, the rest is based on your choice.

Tokyo and Osaka are two of Japan's finest cities, each providing a distinctive fusion of food, culture, and lifestyle. Osaka is renowned for its lively and energetic populace, and vibrant local culture, the city is more relaxed than in Tokyo. Osaka is also renowned for having a lively nightlife. Besides, Tokyo is already internationally influenced and modern, but still fusion with Japanese culture that is very strong in both cities.

Travel from Tokyo to Osaka

If you are wondering about the easy ways to travel from Tokyo to Osaka, we’re gonna unpack this for you. So, you can choose wisely which one of the transportation modes for you to take.

1. Shinkansen

Shinkansen

Shinkansen

In Japan, the Shinkansen is the quickest land transportation option. It can travel in the shortest amount of time to several stations. Usually, Shinkansen run ten to fifteen minutes, dozens of time a day. It's really comfortable and convenient transportation mode because the Shinkansen offers spacious seats, free Wi-Fi, and electrical outlets.

If you decide to go to Osaka from Tokyo by Shinkansen, you will leave from Tokyo Station to Shin-Osaka Station. The trip usually takes between 2,5 and 3 hours in total. So, here is the guide for you:

Get your ticket in ticket machines or ticket counters to have JR pass. You can also easily book your Shinkansen ticket on Traveloka.
Make sure to arrive early in Tokyo Station before the Shinkansen depart to Shin-Osaka Station.
Insert your ticket into the ticket gate or present it to the station officials for inspection. Once you've arrived at the station, proceed to the compartment indicated on your ticket by following the signs and wait for the train on the platform.
After that, you can safely board the train and take your seat to enjoy your trip.
Always pay attention to the announcements when you reach Shin-Osaka Station.

2. Overnight Buses

Overnight Buses

Overnight Buses

For a traveller, night buses are cheaper and simpler to go around. The buses go to Umeda, Namba, and Osaka Station from a number of locations in Tokyo, including Tokyo Station and Ikebukuro.

In addition to saving money on lodging and providing extra time for touring during the day, night buses also have more spacious seats with more legroom than standard buses, and some of them come with complimentary Wi-Fi and TVs to ensure that passengers have a comfortable journey for 8 to 9 hours until they arrive to Osaka.

3. By Plane

Fly from Tokyo to Osaka

Fly from Tokyo to Osaka

Fly from Tokyo to Osaka is also another quickest method of transportation. The flight duration is only one hour and ten minutes. But, since you need to reserve time for boarding and security check, the total transportation time can be as long as 2 to 3 hours. And for the worst case, flights may be delayed due to weather conditions and other factors.

Nevertheless, for travellers or business travellers with little time, Tokyo to Osaka flights depart virtually every hour.

4. Local Train

Local trains are not Shinkansen

Local trains are not Shinkansen

Local trains are not Shinkansen, it is usually not the first option for travellers because of their slow speed and frequent stops. In contracts, local trains in Japan will give you a distinctive travel experience to see lesser-known places and get a taste of the local way of life because they usually stop at more locations than simply the big cities.

Local trains depart at Tokyo or Ueno Station and make a few transfers from major Osaka stations like Osaka Station or Umeda Station. But, please make sure to think about train intervals and transfer times. You must plan your rail trip carefully, especially in distant places where train service is less regular.

5. Rent a Car

Rent a Car

Rent a Car

You can have flexibility and see Japan's smaller towns and rural areas by renting a car from Tokyo to Osaka. The distinctive experiences and breathtaking vistas may make it worthwhile, even though it could be more costly and time-consuming than other modes of transportation. You can explore several attractions along the journey if you choose this option as well.

Here is the list of major car rental companies in Japan:

Toyota Rent-a-Car
Nippon Rent-A-Car
Times Car Rental
Orix Rent-A-Car
Budget Rent a Car Japan

Remember that you'll require a Japanese driving licence or an international driving permit (IDP). The rental deposit also needs to be paid using the credit card. You can make a reservation on the rental company's website or directly rent from the Tokyo rental offices, though availability may vary. Depending on traffic and stops, the estimated travel time for you will be between six and eight hours. We advise you to go from Tokyo to Yokohama and then on to Shizuoka. You may detour here to enjoy in the gorgeous panorama of Mount Fuji. Continued to Nagoya prior to arriving at Osaka.

Discover flight with Traveloka

Tue, 29 Apr 2025

AirAsia X

Singapore (SIN) to Osaka (KIX)

Start from SGD 155.08

Tue, 29 Apr 2025

Thai VietJet Air

Taipei (TPE) to Osaka (KIX)

Start from SGD 89.60

Mon, 19 May 2025

AirAsia Philippines

Manila (MNL) to Osaka (KIX)

Start from SGD 101.58

Travelling Tips from Tokyo to Osaka

The thrill of travelling from Tokyo to Osaka offers flexibility and breathtaking scenery. For a quick and comfortable ride, you can take the Shinkansen; alternatively, think about taking an inexpensive overnight bus. Having a car rental might gives you the flexibility to visit undiscovered locations like Mount Fuji and Nagoya.

So, to get the best rates, especially during busy seasons, get your tickets in advance. Bring a portable charger for your electronics and light clothing to facilitate your travels. Savour local delicacies in both locations and remember to check the weather before you travel so that you pack accordingly. Always have the required travel documentation and your identification card with you.

To make your trip even more convenient, book your tickets and accommodations through Traveloka. With Traveloka, you can find the best deals on any tickets, nearby hotels, flights and more tourist attractions. Plus, you can read reviews and get travel tips to ensure you make the most of your visit. Start planning your adventure today with Traveloka and enjoy a hassle-free memorable trip!

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