Shinkansen fares and ticket reservation methods from Hiroshima to Kokura
Overview of transportation methods from Hiroshima to Kokura
You can travel from Hiroshima Station to Kokura Station using the Sanyo Shinkansen (bullet train).
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 Hiroshima to Kokura
- Fastest trains: "Mizuho" and "Nozomi"; Travel time from departure to arrival: Approximately 45-46 minutes
- Fare for unreserved seats (no reservation required): 7,140 yen
- The fare for reserved seats (ordinary car), which require advance booking, is between 7,670 and 8,200 yen.
- Green Car fare: 11,330–11,860 yen
- Available trains: "Nozomi", "Mizuho", "Sakura", "Hikari", "Kodama"
- JR Pass: Please refer to "Can the JR Pass be used between Hiroshima and Kokura?" below.
*Fares, travel time, and train names are subject to change. Please check Ekitan's Shinkansen timetable, latest fares, and schedules before publication.
The appeal of Kokura (destination) as a tourist destination
Kokura is a port town located in the heart of Kitakyushu City, overlooking the Kanmon Strait. Kokura Castle is a famous castle built by Hosokawa Tadaoki, and from its keep you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city and the Kanmon Strait. The Mojiko Retro district is a nostalgic area lined with Western-style buildings from the Meiji and Taisho periods, and is also known as the birthplace of banana street vending. You can also enjoy historical spots along the Kanmon Strait, such as the site of the Battle of Dan-no-ura. Yakiudon, nukadaki, and kashiwameshi are representative local dishes of Kokura (Kitakyushu). It can be reached from Hiroshima in as little as 44 minutes.
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Shinkansen fare from Hiroshima to Kokura
Overall view of Shinkansen fares from Hiroshima to Kokura
Between Hiroshima Station and Kokura Station, you can use the "Nozomi", "Mizuho", "Sakura", "Hikari", and "Kodama" Shinkansen trains. Fares, stops, and travel times vary depending on the type of train. Please note that the "Nozomi" and "Mizuho" trains cannot be used with a regular JR Pass alone, so JR Pass users should check which trains are available on the applicable section. Reserved seats tend to sell out quickly during high seasons such as Golden Week, Obon, and New Year's. We recommend booking early to ensure a comfortable journey.
Compare fares between Hiroshima and Kokura
| Seat | Fare (estimate) | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Unreserved Seats | 7,140 yen | No seat number is assigned; you can board if there are empty seats. |
| Reserved Seats (Ordinary Car) | 7,670-8,200 yen | Fares vary depending on the type of train and the time of year. |
| Green Car | 11,330 to 11,860 yen | Spacious seating and high-quality service, perfect for those who want to travel comfortably. |
*Fares, travel time, and train names are subject to change. Please check Ekitan's Shinkansen timetable, latest fares, and schedules before publication.
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 high 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 guarantee a seat, please use reserved seats, which require advance reservations.
*If you have a JR Pass, you cannot ride the "Nozomi" train. Please choose the "Hikari" or "Kodama" train, which have unreserved seats.
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 high 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 "O-saki 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 Hiroshima to Kokura
Shortest Shinkansen journey time between Hiroshima and Kokura
The shortest travel time from Hiroshima Station to Kokura Station is approximately 45-46 minutes. The fastest trains are the "Mizuho" and "Nozomi". Trains usable with the JR Pass vary depending on the section of the journey, so please check the eligible trains before booking. Travel time varies depending on the type of train and the number of stops.
*Fares, travel time, and train names are subject to change. Please check Ekitan's Shinkansen timetable, latest fares, and schedules before publication.
Average travel time and difference between trains
| Train Name | Main Stops | Estimated Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| "Mizuho" and "Nozomi" | Major stations | Approximately 45-50 minutes (Not available with a regular JR Pass alone) |
| "Sakura" and "Hikari" | Stops at major stations | Approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour (JR Pass available) |
| "Kodama" | Stops at every station | Approximately 1 hour 10 minutes to 1 hour 40 minutes (JR Pass available) |
*Fares, travel time, and train names are subject to change. Please check Ekitan's Shinkansen timetable, latest fares, and schedules before publication.
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 "Mizuho", "Nozomi", "Sakura", "Hikari", and "Kodama"
On the Shinkansen line running between Hiroshima and Kokura, you can use the "Nozomi", "Mizuho", "Sakura", "Hikari", and "Kodama" trains. Each train has different stops and travel times from departure to arrival. The "Mizuho" and "Nozomi" trains cannot be used with a regular JR Pass alone. You may be able to use them by purchasing an additional "NOZOMI MIZUHO Ticket" for JR Pass users. The "Sakura", "Hikari", and "Kodama" trains can be used with a JR Pass.
Stations and characteristics of each train
The fastest train is the "Nozomi", which achieves a short journey time of approximately 44 minutes by stopping only at major stations. However, the "Nozomi" cannot be used with the JR Pass, so JR Pass users should choose the "Hikari" or "Kodama". Reserved seats tend to sell out quickly during high season, so early booking is recommended.
Hiroshima to Kokura: Travel time by train
"Mizuho" and "Nozomi" are express trains, but they cannot be used with a regular JR Pass alone. You may be able to use them by purchasing an additional "NOZOMI MIZUHO Ticket" for JR Pass users.
The "Sakura" and "Hikari" trains are available with the JR Pass. They are a convenient option for JR Pass users who want to travel quickly within the designated areas.
The "Kodama" is a train that stops at every station. While the journey takes longer, it has unreserved seating, making it a convenient option if you have plenty of time.
*Fares, travel time, and train names are subject to change. Please check Ekitan's Shinkansen timetable, latest fares, and schedules before publication.
Recommended trains between Hiroshima and Kokura
For those without a JR Pass who want the fastest travel time, we recommend the "Mizuho" or "Nozomi" trains. If you have a JR Pass, focus on checking the "Sakura" or "Hikari" trains. If you want to save money or have more time, trains with unreserved seats available on the designated sections are 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 high 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 Hiroshima and Kokura: 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 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" (Green Window), 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. It has no annual fee, and you can reserve and pay for Shinkansen tickets using your registered credit card. While some overseas-issued cards may be accepted, there are restrictions on which cards can be registered and certain identity verification services may be required. For articles aimed at international travelers, it is safer to focus on Smart EX rather than Express Reservation. Please check the Smart EX official website for the latest terms of use.
Points to note when making a reservation
During high 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. Once your travel dates are decided, we recommend booking as early as possible. Smart EX allows you to book reserved seats online, but the booking hours, change conditions, and eligible routes for early bird discounts vary depending on the product. Since there may be a fee for changing or refunding tickets, we recommend booking only after your itinerary is finalized.
Can I use the JR Pass between Hiroshima and Kokura?
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 conventional trains. The "Nozomi" and "Mizuho" trains cannot be used with the regular JR Pass alone. However, they may be usable by purchasing an additional "NOZOMI MIZUHO Ticket" for JR Pass users. They can be purchased on the official website or at designated retailers. Purchase and exchange methods may change, so please check the latest information on the JAPAN RAIL PASS official website.
Availability between Hiroshima and Kokura
| Train | JR Pass Usage | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| "Mizuho" | Not available | This service cannot be used with a regular JR Pass alone. It may be possible to use it by purchasing an additional "NOZOMI MIZUHO Ticket" for JR Pass users. |
| "Nozomi" | Not available | This service cannot be used with a regular JR Pass alone. It may be possible to use it by purchasing an additional "NOZOMI MIZUHO Ticket" for JR Pass users. |
| "Sakura" | Available | Unreserved seats available, no reservation required. |
| "Hikari" | Available | Unreserved seats available, no reservation required. |
| "Kodama" | Available | Unreserved seats available, no reservation required. |
Differences between "Nozomi", "Hikari", and "Kodama" trains, and how to use JR Pass.
"Nozomi", "Mizuho", "Sakura", "Hikari", and "Kodama" trains operate on this section, but you cannot ride the "Mizuho" or "Nozomi" with only a regular JR Pass. If you have a JR Pass, please use the "Sakura", "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.
Important points to note when using JR Pass (not valid on "Nozomi" trains)
When traveling this section using a JR Pass, please use the "Sakura", "Hikari", or "Kodama" trains, not the "Mizuho" or "Nozomi" trains. Since travel times vary significantly depending on the train, please check the departure time and travel time on the Ekitan Shinkansen timetable. Reservations are not required for unreserved seats.
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.
Hiroshima to Kokura Shinkansen Timetable
Hiroshima to Kokura Shinkansen service frequency
The Shinkansen service between Hiroshima and Kokura has different train types depending on the time of day. The available trains are "Nozomi", "Mizuho", "Sakura", "Hikari", and "Kodama". While there are services from early morning to late at night, the stopping stations, travel time, and JR Pass usage conditions differ depending on the train type, so please check the latest schedule on the Ekitan Shinkansen timetable.
*Fares, travel time, and train names are subject to change. Please check Ekitan's Shinkansen timetable, latest fares, and schedules before publication.
Guideline for the first and last trains
The first Shinkansen train departing from Hiroshima Station is around 6:02 AM, and the last train departs around 11:15 PM. By taking an early morning train, you can enjoy a full day of sightseeing in the Kokura 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 Hiroshima to Kokura 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.
Hiroshima Station to Kokura Station (excerpt, approximate route)
| Departure (Hiroshima) | Train | Arrival (Kokura) | Travel Time from Departure to Arrival |
|---|---|---|---|
| 06:05 | "Kodama" 875 | 07:15 | Approximately 1 hour 10 minutes |
| 06:43 | "Sakura" No. 401 | 07:40 | Approximately 57 minutes |
| 07:26 | "Mizuho" No. 601 | 08:12 | Approximately 46 minutes |
| 08:00 | "Hikari" 681 | 09:02 | Approximately 1 hour 02 minutes |
| 08:50 | "Mizuho" No. 603 | 09:35 | Approximately 45 minutes |
*Fares, travel time, and train names are subject to change. Please check Ekitan's Shinkansen timetable, latest fares, and schedules before publication.
*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 high 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 Hiroshima to Kokura
This is a summary of Shinkansen (bullet train) travel from Hiroshima to Kokura.
Estimated fares: Unreserved Seats (7,140 yen), Reserved Seats (7,670-8,200 yen), Green Car (11,330-11,860 yen)
Minimum travel time from departure to arrival: Approximately 45-46 minutes (when using "Mizuho" or "Nozomi" trains)
JR Pass users should check the types of trains they can use on the designated sections. "Nozomi" and "Mizuho" trains cannot be used with a regular JR Pass alone.
Tickets can be purchased at station ticket offices (Midori-no-madoguchi), designated seat ticket machines, and online reservation services such as Smart EX.
During high season, reserved seats can sell out quickly, so book your tickets as soon as your travel itinerary is finalized. Make use of the Shinkansen (bullet train) to suit your travel plans to Japan.
*Fares, travel time, and train names are subject to change. Please check Ekitan's Shinkansen timetable, latest fares, and schedules before publication.
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