Shinkansen fares and ticket reservation methods from Fukuyama to Hiroshima

Overview of travel methods from Fukuyama to Hiroshima

You can travel from Fukuyama Station to Hiroshima Station using the Sanyo Shinkansen.

This article explains Shinkansen (bullet train) fares, travel time from departure to arrival, and how to book tickets. We've compiled useful information for your trip to Japan, including JR Pass usage rules and the types of trains you can use. Please use this as a reference to help plan your trip smoothly.

Basic information from Fukuyama to Hiroshima

• Fastest train: "Nozomi", travel time from departure to arrival: approximately 19 minutes
• Fare for unreserved seats (no reservation required): 4,510 yen
• The fare for reserved seats (standard class), which require advance booking, is between 5,040 and 5,360 yen.
• Green Car fare: 7,310–7,630 yen
• Available trains: "Nozomi", "Hikari", "Kodama"
• JR Pass: Please refer to "Can the JR Pass be used between Fukuyama and Hiroshima?" below.

Hiroshima (destination) as a tourist destination

Hiroshima, the largest city in the Chugoku region facing the Seto Inland Sea, is a symbol of peace and attracts tourists from all over the world. The Atomic Bomb Dome and Peace Memorial Park are historical sites registered as World Heritage Sites, embodying the wish for nuclear disarmament and lasting peace. Miyajima (Itsukushima Shrine), also a World Heritage Site, is one of Japan's three most scenic spots, with its beautiful vermilion torii gate and shrine buildings standing in the sea. Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki and fresh oyster dishes are representative Hiroshima cuisine and can be enjoyed throughout the city. It can be accessed from Fukuyama in as little as 19 minutes.

Shinkansen fare from Fukuyama to Hiroshima

Overall view of Shinkansen fares from Fukuyama to Hiroshima

Between Fukuyama Station and Hiroshima Station, you can use the Sanyo Shinkansen's "Nozomi", "Hikari", and "Kodama" trains. Some trains offer unreserved seats that do not require reservations. Fares may vary depending on the season, and reserved seats tend to sell out quickly during peak seasons such as Golden Week, Obon, and New Year's. Early reservations are recommended to ensure a comfortable journey.

Fare comparison from Fukuyama to Hiroshima

Features and advantages of unreserved seating

Unreserved seats do not require reservations and you can sit in any available seat. This is an economical option for short distances or during off-peak hours. However, during peak seasons such as Golden Week, Obon, and New Year's, the unreserved seating area can become very crowded, and you may have to stand. If you want to be guaranteed a seat, please use reserved seats, which require advance reservations.

Features and usage scenarios of reserved seats

For reserved seats, which require advance booking, you will be assigned a seat number, guaranteeing you a seat during your journey. Reserved seats tend to sell out quickly, especially during peak seasons such as Golden Week and the New Year holidays, so we recommend booking early. Online reservations can be made through Eki-net (https://www.eki-net.com). It can also be used from smartphones, and payment can be made by credit card. You may be able to purchase tickets at a lower price than the regular fare by using the early booking discount "Osaki Toku-da-ne".

Features and comfort of Green Cars

Green Cars offer more spacious seats than standard cars, allowing for a more comfortable journey. The seat pitch (distance between seats) is generous, making long journeys less tiring. Many seats have power outlets, allowing you to charge your smartphone or laptop while traveling. Green Cars are recommended for business travelers, special trips, or anyone seeking a more luxurious travel experience. Reservations for Green Cars can be made at JR station ticket counters, designated seat ticket machines, or through compatible online reservation services.

Travel time from Fukuyama to Hiroshima

Shortest Shinkansen travel time between Fukuyama and Hiroshima

The shortest travel time from Fukuyama Station to Hiroshima Station is approximately 19 minutes. The fastest train is the "Nozomi", which stops only at major stations, making it an efficient mode of transport. While travel time varies depending on the type of train and the number of stops, Shinkansen trains can travel several times faster than conventional lines, making them an ideal mode of transportation for long-distance travel.

Average travel time and difference between trains

Sanyo Shinkansen's speed and features

The Sanyo Shinkansen is part of Japan's bullet train network, boasting high safety and punctuality. It reaches a maximum speed of 300 km/h and maintains stable operation even in bad weather. The trains offer comfortable travel with spacious seats and clean facilities. Many trains have power outlets at each seat, allowing passengers to charge their smartphones and laptops while traveling. An increasing number of trains also offer Wi-Fi service, allowing passengers to access the internet on board.

Comparison of travel time with air travel

Compared to airplanes, bullet trains often have an advantage in terms of total travel time because they eliminate the need for airport access, security checks, and boarding procedures. With airplanes, you need to arrive at the airport 1–2 hours before departure for airport check-in, security checks, and getting to the boarding gate. Furthermore, travel time from the airport to the city center is also added after arrival. On the other hand, bullet trains only travel from station to station, making access to the city center significantly faster.

Time comparison with cars and JR conventional lines

Even using expressways, traveling by car takes significantly longer than by Shinkansen (bullet train), including traffic jams and rest stops. Furthermore, Japanese expressways have high tolls, and parking fees at the destination must also be considered. Using JR conventional lines can take several hours or more, including transfers. Considering travel time, cost, and comfort, the Shinkansen is the most efficient mode of transportation.

Which train is the fastest?

Differences between "Nozomi", "Hikari", and "Kodama"

The Sanyo Shinkansen, which runs between Fukuyama and Hiroshima, operates three types of trains: "Nozomi", "Hikari", and "Kodama". Each train has different stops and travel times, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your travel style. Some trains also have unreserved seats that do not require reservations, so you can board without a seat reservation. Choose the train that best suits your itinerary and budget.

Stations and characteristics of each train

The fastest train is the "Nozomi", which achieves a short travel time of approximately 19 minutes by stopping only at major stations. Because it has fewer intermediate stops, it's ideal for those who want to minimize travel time.

Fukuyama to Hiroshima: Travel time by train

The "Nozomi" is the fastest train on the Sanyo Shinkansen line, but it cannot be used with the JR Pass. While it's the fastest option, connecting Fukuyama and Hiroshima in approximately 19 minutes, a separate limited express fare is required. If you have a JR Pass, please use the "Hikari" or "Kodama" trains instead.

The "Hikari" is a high-speed train on the Sanyo Shinkansen line and can be used with the JR Pass. It is the second fastest train after the "Nozomi" and stops at major stations. Some trains also have unreserved seats that do not require reservations. With a wide range of travel options, it is the most recommended train for JR Pass users.

The "Kodama" is a train on the Sanyo Shinkansen line that stops at every station and can be used with the JR Pass. Because it stops at every station, the travel time from departure to arrival is longer, but it has unreserved seats that do not require reservations, making it easy to board. It also has the advantage of making it easy to stop at tourist spots along the way.

Recommended trains between Fukuyama and Hiroshima

If you want to travel as quickly as possible, we recommend taking the "Nozomi" train. However, the "Nozomi" cannot be used with the JR Pass, so JR Pass users should take the "Hikari" train instead. If you want to save money or prefer unreserved seats, the "Kodama" train is also an option. Choose the train that best suits your travel purpose, departure time, and budget.

Points to consider when choosing a train

You can check timetables and seat availability on Ekitan (ekitan.com) or Smart EX. Reserved seats tend to sell out quickly, especially during peak season. We recommend booking as soon as your itinerary is decided. Reserved seats generally go on sale at 10:00 AM one month prior to the date of travel. If you have a JR Pass, please plan your itinerary within the pass's validity period and allow for some flexibility in your schedule.

How to book Shinkansen tickets

Basic methods for purchasing Shinkansen tickets

There are three ways to purchase Shinkansen tickets between Fukuyama and Hiroshima: ① at the station's ticket office (Midori-no-madoguchi), ② at a designated seat ticket vending machine, and ③ online (e.g., Smart EX). Foreign credit cards are also accepted at many ticket counters and vending machines. Each method has its own characteristics, so please choose the one that best suits your travel style.

How to purchase tickets at the station's ticket office (Midori-no-madoguchi)

Major train stations have ticket offices called "Midori-no-madoguchi", where you can purchase tickets while consulting directly with staff. Some stations have English-speaking staff on duty, making it a convenient way for travelers to purchase tickets. Cash and credit cards are accepted. Opening hours vary by station, but are generally from 6:00 to 21:00. JR Passes can also be exchanged at Midori-no-madoguchi.

How to use a ticket vending machine

You can purchase tickets at designated seat ticket vending machines inside the station using touch panel operation. An increasing number of these machines support multiple languages, including English, Chinese, and Korean. Since payment by credit card is possible, you can use them even without cash. A major advantage is that you can purchase tickets smoothly even during peak hours when ticket counters are crowded. If you have a JR Pass, you may be able to make seat reservations at the vending machines.

Online booking (Smart EX)

Smart EX is an online reservation service for the Tokaido, Sanyo, and Kyushu Shinkansen lines. Reservations can be made via smartphone or computer, making it a user-friendly service for international travelers. While overseas-issued credit cards may be accepted, acceptance may depend on the card company and their authentication requirements. Since Express Reservation is a membership-based service, please focus your information on Smart EX in articles aimed at international travelers.

Points to note when making a reservation

During peak seasons such as Golden Week (late April to early May), Obon (August), and the New Year holidays (late December to early January), reserved seats can sell out several weeks in advance. We recommend booking as early as possible once your travel dates are decided. Smart EX allows you to book tickets online for eligible sections of the Tokaido, Sanyo, and Kyushu Shinkansen lines. Conditions and fees for changing or refunding tickets vary, so please check the latest information before booking.

Can I use the JR Pass between Fukuyama and Hiroshima?

Overview of JR Pass

The JR Pass (Japan Rail Pass) is an unlimited travel pass for foreign visitors to Japan. It comes in three validity periods: 7 days, 14 days, and 21 days. During the validity period, you can ride many JR trains, including Shinkansen, limited express, and local trains, without limits. Because it allows you to travel freely on JR lines throughout Japan, it's a very economical pass for travelers visiting multiple tourist destinations. It can be purchased from the official website or designated retailers. Purchase and exchange methods may change, so please check the latest information on the JAPAN RAIL PASS official website.

Availability between Fukuyama and Hiroshima

Regarding seat reservations for trains such as "Nozomi"

While "Nozomi", "Hikari", and "Kodama" trains operate on this section, you cannot ride the "Nozomi" with a regular JR Pass alone. You may be able to ride it by purchasing an additional "NOZOMI MIZUHO Ticket" for JR Pass users. If you have a JR Pass, please use the "Hikari" or "Kodama". The "Hikari" is the most recommended option for JR Pass users as its travel time is similar to the "Nozomi" and it also has unreserved seats. Seat reservations can be made at JR station ticket counters, designated seat ticket machines, or through the corresponding online reservation service.

Important points to note when using JR Pass (not valid on "Nozomi" trains)

When using the Shinkansen on this section with a JR Pass, you cannot ride the "Nozomi" train with just a regular JR Pass. Please use the "Hikari" or "Kodama" trains. Seat reservations can be made at JR station ticket counters, designated seat ticket machines, or through the corresponding online reservation service.

Points to note when using JR Pass

JR Passes have an expiration date, so please choose the appropriate number of days (7, 14, or 21 days) according to your itinerary. Using a JR Pass is often more economical when traveling across multiple sections of the line. Purchase and redemption methods for JR Passes may change. Please check the latest information on the JAPAN RAIL PASS official website. Since you can specify the start date of your pass, please plan and use it strategically to match your travel start date.

Shinkansen timetable between Fukuyama and Hiroshima

Frequency of Shinkansen service between Fukuyama and Hiroshima

The Sanyo Shinkansen between Fukuyama and Hiroshima operates approximately every 15 to 30 minutes. The available trains are "Nozomi", "Hikari", and "Kodama", with the type of train varying depending on the time of day. With services running from early morning until late at night, you can use it flexibly to suit your travel schedule.

Guideline for the first and last trains

The first Shinkansen train departing from Fukuyama Station is around 6:07 AM, and the last train departs around 10:39 PM. By taking an early morning train, you can enjoy a full day of sightseeing in the Hiroshima area. The time of the last train may change depending on the season, day of the week, and schedule revisions. Please check the latest timetable.

How to read a timetable

Ekitan (ekitan.com) allows you to check Shinkansen timetables, seat availability, and fares for the Fukuyama to Hiroshima route all in one place. Simply enter your departure station, arrival station, and date, and the service will display the most suitable train and fare. It's accessible from smartphones and supports English, making it a user-friendly service for international travelers.

Fukuyama Station to Hiroshima Station (excerpt, approximate route)

*Actual times and train numbers may change due to seasonal changes or revisions to the operating schedule. Please check the latest information on Ekitan or other sources.

Peak hours and points to note

The trains tend to be more crowded during the morning commute (7:00–9:00) and in the evening (17:00–19:00). They are especially crowded during Golden Week, Obon, and the New Year holidays, and reserved seats tend to sell out quickly. During peak travel seasons, it's recommended to book early and allow ample time for travel. Also, if transfers are necessary, be sure to check the connecting train times in advance.

Summary: Shinkansen from Fukuyama to Hiroshima

This summarizes the Shinkansen (bullet train) journey from Fukuyama to Hiroshima.

Estimated fares: Unreserved seats (no reservation required) (4,510 yen), reserved seats (reservation required) (5,040–5,360 yen), Green Car (7,310–7,630 yen)

Shortest travel time from departure to arrival: Approximately 19 minutes (when using "Nozomi" Shinkansen)

With a regular JR Pass, you cannot use the "Nozomi" train with just the regular JR Pass. You can use the "Hikari" and "Kodama" trains.

Tickets can be purchased at station ticket offices (Midori-no-madoguchi), designated seat ticket machines, and online reservation services such as Smart EX.

Reserved seats can sell out quickly during peak season, so please check your tickets as soon as your travel dates are finalized.

Ekitan Travel Media Editorial Department

The Ekitan Travel Media editorial team provides information on transportation in Japan, including Shinkansen (bullet trains), regular trains, intercity travel, and access to tourist destinations. We also offer easy-to-understand travel information for international visitors.
This article is published by Ekitan Co., Ltd., the provider of the train transfer information service "Ekitan," and is based on Japanese railway and transportation information. Ekitan's website and app are used by over 10 million users per month.