Inexpensive travel from Osaka to Utsunomiya

Hello everyone,

I'll be going to Utsunomiya in October for a few days, then again in November for a month from Osaka area. I was thinking of taking the night bus from here to Utsunomyia, but I hear that it's really uncomfortable and quite expensive (more than 11,000, supposedly. Not sure if that's actually true).

I know that traveling that distance is already an expensive venture, but is there anyway I can get myself to Utsunomiya for less than 7000? If not, what's the best way?

The cheapest I can work out by train is Y9560 which does not have any reserved seating and takes 11:23 and requires about 10 changes of train. A bus would almost certainly be cheaper but I'm no whizz kid when it comes to the buses so maybe somebody else can help you out there.

Use the Air Pass.
http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2364.html
Or use the Bus Pass but the ride may be too long. Have a break in Stop in Kyoto or Osaka, if you can.
http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2369.html

Maybe an overnight train from Osaka to Tokyo, then taking local JR trains to Utsunomiya?
- The night bus from Osaka to Tokyo cost anywhere between 3,500 - 11,000, so look for bargains.
- The Tokyo - Utsunomiya stretch cost a bit under 2,000 yen and a bit under 2 hours, all on non-reserved regular commuter trains.

Thanks a lot, everyone. I think I'll take AK's advice though. The night bus at 3500 seems like my best bet. Tokyo to Utsunomiya isn't so expensive.

Thanks a lot for the advice!