Osaka: Getting there and around

Getting to Osaka

By shinkansen
  • Direct
  • 2.5 - 3 h
  • ¥around 14,000
  • multiple trains per hour
Covered by: Japan Rail Pass

Tokyo (Tokyo and Shinagawa stations) and Osaka (Shin-Osaka Station) are connected with each other by the JR Tokaido Shinkansen. Nozomi trains require about 155 minutes to reach Shin-Osaka Station from Tokyo, Hikari trains about 3 hours and Kodama trains about 4 hours.

The regular one way fare is 13,870 yen by non-reserved seat or around 14,500 yen by reserved seat. The Japan Rail Pass is valid on Hikari and Kodama trains, but a supplement fee of 4,960 yen is required on Nozomi trains.

The Tokyo-Osaka Hokuriku Arch Pass is a rail pass that allows holders to travel between Tokyo and Osaka via Kanazawa, using the Hokuriku Shinkansen. It is not the fastest way to travel between Tokyo and Osaka, but it allows pass holders to visit the less-explored Hokuriku Region along the way. It costs 24,500 yen and is valid for seven consecutive days.

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By highway bus
  • Direct
  • 8 h
  • ¥2,500 - 20,000
  • multiple daytime and overnight connections per day

The one way trip from Tokyo to Osaka by highway bus takes about 8 hours. There are daytime and overnight buses. Fierce competition on the Tokyo-Osaka route has produced a wide variety of comfort levels (from discount to super premium buses) and an abundance of low priced offers. Typical one way fares for discount buses, such as Willer Express, start from around 2500 yen; while premium buses charge up to 20,000 yen. Online reservations can be made through Willer and Japan Bus Online.

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By air
  • 2-3 transfers
  • 3-4 h
  • ¥5,000 - 20,000
  • multiple flights per day

Multiple airlines operate between Tokyo and Osaka. A majority of flights use Tokyo's Haneda Airport and Osaka's Itami Airport, but a smaller number of flights also serve Tokyo's Narita Airport and Osaka's Kansai Airport. The regular one way fare by conventional airlines is about 31,000 yen, however, few travelers pay more than 15,000 yen thanks to various discount fares. One way fares by discount airlines start from around 5000 yen, but most are using the less centrally located Narita Airport and Kansai Airport. Flight duration is one hour.

Airfares from Tokyo to Osaka over the next 30 days July 13, 2026 - August 11, 2026
AirlineLowest fareAverage lowest fare
ANA11,240 yen13,204 yen
JAL12,540 yen13,748 yen
Skymark9,910 yen12,537 yen
Starflyer11,390 yen13,248 yen
ANA Wings11,350 yen14,294 yen
Jetstar Japan5,933 yen8,327 yen
Peach5,330 yen8,243 yen
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By car
  • 6 h
  • ¥around 14,000 (expressway tolls)

Driving between Tokyo and Osaka via the Tomei and Meishin expressways takes about six hours without breaks and traffic jams. The expressway toll is around 14,000 yen one way.

Above fees and schedules are subject to change. Be sure to check current yen exchange rates.

Getting around

Osaka has two major city centers and four major train stations. The two city centers are nicknamed Kita ("North") around Osaka/Umeda Station and Minami ("South") around Namba Station. While Kita is a large shopping and business area, Minami is Osaka's most famous entertainment district.

JR Osaka Station is located in the center of the Kita district. Two other railway companies and three subway lines have their own stations in the vicinity of JR Osaka Station. Note that some of them are named after the Umeda district rather than Osaka. The shinkansen trains stop not at Osaka Station, but at Shin-Osaka Station, one station north of Osaka Station by JR train.

In the Namba area (Minami), four railway companies (JR, Nankai, Kintetsu and Hankyu) and three subway lines have their separate stations, all named Namba Station. The fourth of Osaka's major railway stations is Tennoji Station in the southeast of central Osaka. It is served by JR, Kintetsu Railway, the Hankai Tramway and two subway lines.

The city of Osaka is served by over seven different railway and subway companies. Most relevant to foreign visitors of Osaka are the subway lines and the lines operated by JR West. The lines operated by the other private railway companies are useful for accessing neighboring cities and regions.

  • JR West operates a dense network of local train lines in the Osaka area. The most prominent line is the Osaka Loop Line, the equivalent to Tokyo's Yamanote Line. JR also operates lines to Kansai Airport, Kobe, Kyoto, Nara and to the Universal Studios. The shinkansen (bullet trains) stop at Shin-Osaka Station.
  • Subways are often the most convenient means of getting around central Osaka. The city has eight subway lines that cover especially the area inside the Osaka Loop Line. The subway offers the quickest connection between Osaka's two main districts Kita and Minami and is of great value to foreign visitors in general.
  • Nankai Railway connects Namba to Kansai Airport, Wakayama and Mount Koya (Koyasan).
  • Hankyu Railway connects Osaka-Umeda Station with northern Osaka, Kobe and Kyoto.
  • Kintetsu Railway connects Osaka with many destinations in the southern Kansai Region, including Nara, Kyoto, Asuka, Yoshino, Ise and Nagoya. Lines start at Namba (Osaka-Namba Station), Tennoji (Osaka-Abenobashi Station) and Nagata stations.
  • Hanshin Railway connects Osaka with Kobe. The lines start at Osaka-Umeda and Osaka-Namba stations.
  • Keihan Railway connects central Osaka with central Kyoto and Uji. The lines start at Yodoyabashi and Nakanoshima stations.

Passes and Tickets

See also our separate page about the various passes available for the Greater Osaka Region.

The prepaid IC card available in Osaka is called Icoca. It does not give you any discounts over regular tickets, but it makes the process of taking trains easier, as you do not always need to buy a ticket before riding a train. Icoca cards can be purchased through ticket machines at JR stations. Local non-JR railway companies offer their own IC card, called Pitapa; however, Pitapa is a postpaid card that works more like a credit card and cannot be used by tourists.

Icoca can be used on most trains and buses in the Greater Osaka region (and many other major cities in Japan). Additionally, eight other IC cards from other major cities of Japan can also be used on the trains and buses of Greater Osaka, including Suica, Pasmo, Kitaca, Toica, Manaca, Sugoca, Nimoca and Hayakaken.

Furthermore, the following passes are available for the Osaka area:

  • Osaka Amazing Pass (1-day: 3300 yen, 2-day: 5500 yen)
    The Osaka Amazing Pass provides unlimited use of subways (including Yumeshima Station), non-JR trains and city buses within Osaka City on one or two consecutive calendar days, plus free admission to selected tourist attractions. It is a digital pass using QR codes and needs to be purchased online.
  • Osaka 1-Day Enjoy Eco Card (820 yen on weekdays, 620 yen on weekends and holidays)
    Unlimited use of subways (except Yumeshima Station) and city buses on one calendar day. The pass also provides discounts on admission to selected sightseeing spots. It can be purchased at subway stations and kiosks. The pass is a good value and easily pays off, especially on weekends and if visiting spots with discounted admission.
  • Osaka Metro Pass (1-day: 820 yen, 2-day: 1500 yen)
    Available only to non-Japanese passport holders, this pass also provides unlimited use of subways (including Yumeshima Station) and city buses on one or two calendar days. It also provides discounts on admission to selected sightseeing spots. It is available as QR code-based e-ticket through Klook.
  • Klook Pass Kansai (from 5520 yen)
    The Klook Pass Kansai allows for discounts on selected attractions and transportation services in Osaka, Kyoto and Kobe. Users can make 3-8 selections from a list of over 20 attractions and services, which include the Abeno Harukas observatory, teamLab Botanical Garden, Umeda Sky Building and several rail passes. The pass is valid for 30 days from the first selection, and the selections do not have to be made at the time of purchase. As its name suggests, the Klook Pass Kansai is sold through Klook.

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Links and Resources

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Hotels around Osaka

Read our Osaka Hotel Guide
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    •
      Hotel 88 Shinsaibashi
      Mid-range
      Hotel 88 Shinsaibashi is an 8-minute walk from OCAT (Osaka City Air Terminal) and a 10-minute walk from Namba Station. Glico Man Sign is a 4-minute walk from the property. Free WiFi is available in all rooms. Featuring modern d?cor, all rooms come with air conditioning and heating facilities, a flat-screen TV and pajamas. Private bathroom includes a bath, walk-in shower, hairdryer, toilet with an electronic bidet and free toiletries. Free luggage storage is available at the 24-hour front desk. Guests can enjoy billiards at the property. There is a drinks vending machine, and laundry service can be arranged. Tsutenkaku and Shinsekai shopping street are a 16-minute train ride away. Osaka Itami Airport is a 45-minute drive from Hotel 88 Shinsaibashi.
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      Four Seasons Hotel Osaka
      Luxury

      Elegant Accommodations

      Four Seasons Hotel Osaka in Osaka offers luxurious rooms with city or river views, air-conditioning, and modern amenities. Each room includes a private bathroom, free WiFi, and a work desk.

      Exceptional Facilities

      Guests can enjoy spa facilities, a sauna, fitness centre, indoor swimming pool, and terrace. Additional services include a 24-hour front desk, concierge, and live music.

      Dining Experience

      The family-friendly restaurant serves Chinese, French, sushi, and international cuisines in a traditional, modern, or romantic ambience. Breakfast options include continental, American, buffet, and ? la carte.

      Prime Location

      Located 16 km from Itami Airport, the hotel is a short walk from Dojima Yakushido and Herbis Plaza ENT. Nearby attractions include Jizoji Temple and Dojima Rice Exchange Monument.
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    •
      30 PIECES Namba
      Luxury

      Comfortable Accommodations

      30 PIECES Namba in Osaka offers family rooms with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and fully equipped kitchens. Each unit includes a balcony or terrace, dining area, and free WiFi.

      Convenient Facilities

      Guests benefit from a lift, full-day security, and luggage storage. Additional amenities include a fireplace, TV, and sofa, ensuring a pleasant stay.

      Prime Location

      Located in the city centre, the aparthotel is a short walk from Namba Station (5-minute) and Naniwa Park (4-minute). Nearby attractions include Motomachinaka Park (500 metres) and Glico Man Sign (less than 1 km). Itami Airport is 20 km away.
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    •
      Patina Osaka
      Luxury

      Elegant Accommodation

      Patina Osaka in Osaka offers a 5-star hotel experience with spa facilities, a sauna, fitness centre, indoor swimming pool, and a beautifully maintained garden and terrace. Guests enjoy free WiFi throughout the property.

      Comfortable Amenities

      The hotel features private check-in and check-out, beauty services, a steam room, wellness packages, and a hot tub. Additional amenities include a fitness room, 24-hour front desk, concierge service, and electric vehicle charging station.

      Dining Options

      A variety of dining options are available, including a buffet breakfast with warm dishes, fresh pastries, and a selection of juices. The restaurant serves Japanese, local, international, and barbecue grill cuisines, accommodating vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free diets.

      Prime Location

      Located 21 km from Itami Airport, Patina Osaka is near attractions such as Osaka Castle (18-minute walk) and Tamatsukuri Catholic Church (6-minute walk). Guests can enjoy yoga classes and explore nearby parks and shrines.
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    •
      HOTEL THE FLAG Shinsaibashi
      Mid-range
      3-star accommodation, HOTEL THE FLAG Shinsaibashi is located in central Osaka, 600 metres from Dotonbori River and the Ebisu Tower Ferris Wheel, 700 metres from popular music and shopping district America Village. Conveniently located in the Chuo Ward, the hotel is situated 2.4 km from Shinsekai. The hotel offers a 24-hour front desk with multi-lingual staff. Free WiFi is available at the hotel. Each air-conditioned room is equipped with a flat-screen TV and desk. Free toiletries and rain shower are provided in all rooms, while certain rooms feature a bathtub. A buffet breakfast is available daily at the hotel. Traditional locations such as Shitennoji Temple and Kuromon Ichiba Market are within 2.5 km from the hotel. Osaka Itami Airport and Kansai International Airport are both less than a one-hour train ride from HOTEL THE FLAG Shinsaibashi.
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    •
      InterContinental Hotel Osaka by IHG
      Luxury
      Only a 5-minute walk from JR Osaka Train Station, InterContinental Osaka is located at the Grand Front Osaka. This 5-star hotel boasts 5 dining options, a 24-hour fitness centre and an indoor swimming pool. Free WiFi is available at the entire property and guests can enjoy refreshing massages during their luxurious stay. Umeda Station on the Midosuji Line is a 7-minute stroll from the hotel. Offering views of Osaka city from the 20th floor, Pierre restaurant serves exquisite contemporary French dishes. All Day Dining serves a buffet with various international dishes, drinks are available at Adee Bar and Lounge. Osaka InterContinental Hotel is a 10-minute drive from Osaka Castle and a 20-minute drive from Universal Studios Japan. Shin Osaka Station and Namba Station are both a 15-minute train ride away. Kansai International Airport is a 60-minute express train ride from JR Osaka Station.
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    •
      Guesthouse Ten-roku - Female Only
      Budget-friendly

      Comfortable Accommodation

      Guesthouse Ten-roku in Osaka offers a female-only environment with free WiFi and complimentary bicycles. Each room features air-conditioning, a washing machine, and a kitchen equipped with a refrigerator, microwave, and stovetop.

      Convenient Facilities

      Guests can enjoy a lounge, 24-hour front desk, concierge service, shared kitchen, daily housekeeping, badminton equipment hire, laundry service, full-day security, and luggage storage. Additional amenities include a work desk and tatami floors.

      Prime Location

      Located in the city centre, the guest house is 20 km from Itami Airport. Nearby attractions include Toyosaki Shrine (13-minute walk), Umeda Station (1.7 km), and Nozaki Park (15-minute walk). Guests appreciate the host, convenient location, and public transport options.
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    •
      Enman Guest House Osaka
      Budget-friendly

      Comfortable Accommodations

      Enman Guest House Osaka in Osaka offers adults-only rooms with air-conditioning, garden or inner courtyard views, and tatami or carpeted floors. Each room includes a wardrobe and a shared bathroom.

      Essential Facilities

      Guests enjoy a garden, free WiFi, lounge, shared kitchen, daily housekeeping service, and luggage storage. Additional amenities include a ground-floor unit and a quiet street view.

      Convenient Location

      Located 20 km from Itami Airport, the guest house is a 17-minute walk from the Panasonic Museum. Nearby attractions include Kadoma City History Museum (2.9 km) and Suita Castle Ruins (6 km).

      Guest Satisfaction

      Highly rated for its host, room cleanliness, and quietness of the area.
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      Comforts81 Shinsaibashi
      Luxury

      Prime City Centre Location

      Comforts81 Shinsaibashi in Osaka offers a convenient location with Namba Shrine a 5-minute walk away, Shinsaibashi Station 500 metres nearby, and Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade less than 1 km from the aparthotel.

      Comfortable Accommodations

      Rooms feature air-conditioning, private bathrooms, fully equipped kitchens, balconies with city views, and free WiFi. Guests appreciate the room comfort and cleanliness.

      Modern Facilities

      The aparthotel provides free WiFi, a lift, family rooms, full-day security, and amenities such as a hot tub, washing machine, and soundproofing.

      Nearby Attractions

      Stage Ku is 600 metres away, TKP Shinsaibashi Ekimae Conference Center 4-minute walk, and Itami Airport 20 km from the property.
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      MIMARU Osaka Shinsaibashi North
      Luxury

      Comfortable Accommodations

      MIMARU Osaka Shinsaibashi North in Osaka offers family rooms with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and kitchen facilities. Each room includes a bidet, hairdryer, dining table, refrigerator, microwave, shower, TV, sofa, and wardrobe.

      Essential Facilities

      Guests enjoy free WiFi, a lift, full-day security, and luggage storage. Additional amenities include a washing machine and tatami floors, ensuring a pleasant stay.

      Prime Location

      Located in the city centre, the hotel is a 6-minute walk from Stage Ku and Shinsaibashi Station. Nearby attractions include Namba Shrine (less than 1 km) and Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade (less than 1 km). Itami Airport is 21 km away.
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Osaka Restaurants

Recommended in Osaka
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      Oryori Miyamoto
      Japanese (Kaiseki)
      Awarded Two Stars in 2024 - A renowned kaiseki restaurant that has earned two stars on a prestigious global gourmet site for over 10 consecutive years. While preserving the traditions of Japanese cuisine, the chef’s unique and innovative touch subtly shines through in the dishes, attracting food enthusiasts from all over the world.
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    • Sushiroku
      Sushi
      Awarded One Star in 2024 - A cozy, family-run restaurant managed by a husband and wife. They are deeply committed to perfecting their shari (sushi rice) and use two types of vinegared rice tailored to complement each topping. Since 2019, the restaurant has consistently earned stars.
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    • Kitashinchi Kushikatsu Bon
      Kushikatsu
      A restaurant that elevates Osaka's soul food, kushikatsu, to a luxurious level. Skilled chefs meticulously prepare each skewer using carefully selected premium ingredients such as Chateaubriand and foie gras. The skewers are fried in a custom copper pot using a unique oil blend based on cottonseed oil, enhancing the natural flavors of the ingredients.
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    • OIMATSU Tempura Suzuki
      Tempura
      A renowned tempura restaurant led by a master chef who honed his skills at prestigious establishments, including The Ritz-Carlton, Osaka. Guests can savor exquisite tempura made with premium ingredients such as Japanese Black Wagyu fillet and Chateaubriand. The restaurant features a pristine white-wood counter, with lacquered vermillion trays set before each seat, the vibrant hue adding an elegant and festive touch to the entire space.
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    • Sushidokoro Kurosugi Shinkan
      Sushi
      The branch of the star-awarded Sushidokoro Kurosugi offers a more affordable way to enjoy its exceptional flavors. Ingredients are sourced together with the main restaurant, where they are prepared before being brought to this location to be crafted into dishes. Guests can savor outstanding sushi alongside a wide selection of sake that is always available.
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    • Kassen Iritani
      Japanese (Kaiseki)
      The head chef honed his skills at the star-awarded Naniwaryori Yu and served as the executive chef at the second branch of the equally star-awarded Oimatsu Kitagawa. He showcases his expertise by sourcing the freshest seafood from across Japan, offering dishes such as fresh sashimi and fragrant charcoal-grilled delicacies. The head chef also holds a sommelier certification, providing a wide selection of wines ranging from classic labels to rare finds.
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    • Konoha
      Japanese (Kaiseki)
      Awarded One Star in 2024 - The head chef, with 16 years of training at a long-established traditional restaurant, expresses the seasonal flavors of each passing season through dishes based on a broth made from premium kombu (kelp). Their signature tempura stands out with a delicate batter enriched with extra egg yolks for a rich and indulgent flavor. The tableware, carefully selected, includes exquisite pieces such as Kutani porcelain and Wajima lacquerware.
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    • Sushi Hoshiyama
      Sushi
      Awarded One Star in 2024 - This restaurant is popular for offering authentic Edomae (Tokyo-style) sushi without modern interpretations or creative twists. The head chef trained extensively at a star-awarded sushi restaurant in Osaka before establishing his own place. The restaurant is also highly regarded among fellow sushi chefs, boasting many fans within the industry.
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    • YUNiCO
      Italian
      Awarded One Star in 2024 - Run by a chef who trained for 10 years at RISTORANTE HiRo, operated by the renowned Hiromi Yamada, featured in numerous media outlets. Guests can enjoy the thrill of watching high-quality ingredients, including Kyoto's traditional vegetables and fresh seafood from Awaji, being prepared right before their eyes across the counter.
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    • Sushi Haku
      Sushi
      In an elegant space that perfectly embodies the term "a hidden retreat for adults," guests can savor exquisite sushi. With presentations that delight not only the palate but also the eyes, each visit offers new discoveries and moments of awe. On the second floor, a bar is available where guests can enjoy a relaxing post-meal time with sake or wine.
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Experiences around Osaka

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