Shinkansen fares and ticket booking methods from Kyoto to Odawara
Overview of how to travel from Kyoto to Odawara
You can travel from Kyoto Station to Odawara Station using the Tokaido 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 Kyoto to Odawara
- Fastest train: "Hikari" (some trains), travel time from departure to arrival: approximately 1 hour 54 minutes
- Fare for unreserved seats (no advance reservation required): 11,770 yen
- The fare for a reserved seat (standard class) that requires advance reservation is 12,100 yen.
- "Green Car" fare: 16,970 yen
- Available trains: "Hikari" (some trains) and "Kodama"
- JR Pass: Please refer to "Can the JR Pass be Used Between Kyoto and Odawara?" below.
- "Nozomi" trains do not stop at Odawara Station. You will need to use "Hikari" (some trains) or "Kodama" trains.
The appeal of Odawara (destination) as a tourist destination
Odawara is a castle town located in western Kanagawa Prefecture and is also known as a gateway to Hakone. Odawara Castle is a famous castle built by the Hojo clan during the Sengoku period, and from its keep you can enjoy a panoramic view of Sagami Bay and Mount Fuji. Hakone, about 15 minutes from Odawara Station by Hakone Tozan Railway, offers a variety of tourist attractions such as Lake Ashi, Owakudani, and Hakone Onsen. Odawara's dried fish, kamaboko (fish cake), and umeboshi (pickled plums) are nationally famous local products. It can be reached from Kyoto in as little as 1 hour and 54 minutes.
Table of Contents
Shinkansen Fare from Kyoto to Odawara
Overview of Shinkansen fares from Kyoto to Odawara
Between Kyoto Station and Odawara Station, you can use the Tokaido Shinkansen's "Hikari" and "Kodama" trains. Fares, stops, and travel times vary depending on the type of train. "Nozomi" trains do not stop at Odawara, so please use either the "Hikari" (some trains) or "Kodama". Reserved seats tend to sell out quickly during peak seasons such as Golden Week, Obon, and New Year's. We recommend booking early to ensure a comfortable journey.
Types of Shinkansen Tickets and Fares
Between Kyoto Station and Odawara Station, you can use the Tokaido Shinkansen's "Hikari" (some trains) and "Kodama" trains. Fares, stops, and travel times vary depending on the type of train. "Nozomi" trains do not stop at this station, so please use either the "Hikari" (some trains) or "Kodama" train. Reserved seats tend to sell out quickly during peak seasons such as Golden Week, Obon, and New Year's. We recommend booking early to ensure a comfortable journey.
Features and advantages of unreserved seating
| Seat | Fare (Estimate) | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Unreserved Seat (no advance reservation required) | 11,770 yen | No seat number is assigned; you can board if there are empty seats. |
| Reserved Seat (Standard Class) (advance reservation required) | 12,100 yen | Your seat number is assigned, guaranteeing you a seat. |
| Green Car | 16,970 yen | Spacious seating and high-quality service, perfect for those who want to travel comfortably. |
Features and usage scenarios of reserved seats
For reserved seats, which require advance reservation, 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 early booking is recommended. Online reservations for the Tokaido Shinkansen are primarily handled through Smart EX. It can be accessed from smartphones and payment can be made by credit card. Discounts and terms of use vary depending on the season, route, and train, so please check the latest information.
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 Kyoto to Odawara
Shortest Shinkansen Travel Time between Kyoto and Odawara
When traveling from Kyoto to Odawara by Shinkansen, the "Nozomi" train does not stop at the target station, so you will need to use the "Hikari" (some trains) or "Kodama" train. The travel time varies depending on the train and whether or not you need to transfer. Please check the latest travel times on Ekitan's Shinkansen timetable.
Average Travel Time and Difference Between Trains
When traveling from Kyoto to Odawara by Shinkansen, the "Nozomi" train does not stop at the target station, so you will need to use the "Hikari" (some trains) or "Kodama" train. The number of "Hikari" trains is limited. Travel time varies depending on the train and whether transfers are required. Please check the latest travel times on Ekitan's Shinkansen timetable.
The speed and features of the Tokaido Shinkansen
| Train Name | Main Stops | Estimated Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| "Hikari" | Some trains will stop at the designated stations. | Approximately 1 hour 54 minutes to 2 hours 05 minutes (JR Pass available) |
| "Kodama" | Stops at every station | Approximately 2 hours 59 minutes (JR Pass available) |
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?
The difference between "Hikari" and "Kodama"
On the Tokaido Shinkansen line running between Kyoto and Odawara, you can use "Kodama" and "Hikari" trains. However, since "Hikari" trains only make a limited number of stops, "Kodama" trains will be more common depending on the time of day. Each train has different stops and travel times, so you can choose the one that best suits your itinerary. With a JR Pass, you can use both "Kodama" and "Hikari" trains.
Each Train's Stops and Features
If you want to travel as quickly as possible, some "Hikari" trains that stop between Kyoto and Odawara are convenient. However, the number of these trains is limited, so please check the timetable for the date and time you plan to travel. "Kodama" trains have more stops and take longer, but they are easy to use.
Kyoto to Odawara: Travel Time by Train
"Hikari" is a high-speed train on the Tokaido Shinkansen line. However, only some "Hikari" trains stop at Odawara, Shizuoka, and Hamamatsu. If you plan to use "Hikari" between Kyoto and Odawara, please check the timetable on Ekitan in advance to confirm whether the train makes these stops.
The "Kodama" train stops at every station. While the journey time is longer, it's a convenient train to use because it stops at every station, including Odawara, Shizuoka, and Hamamatsu.
Kyoto to Odawara: Recommended Trains
If you want to travel as quickly as possible, check the times when the "Hikari" train makes a stop. JR Pass holders can also use the "Hikari" and "Kodama" trains. If there are fewer "Hikari" trains during certain times, or if you have more time, the "Kodama" 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
Kyoto to Odawara Shinkansen tickets can be purchased in three ways: ① at the station's ticket office (Midori-no-madoguchi), ② at a designated seat ticket vending machine, or ③ online (e.g., Smart EX). Foreign credit cards can be used at many ticket counters and vending machines, but they may not be accepted depending on the card company and authentication requirements. Visitors to Japan should check the usage conditions in advance.
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. Reservations can be made via smartphone or computer, and ticketless boarding is possible by registering a transportation IC card. Overseas-issued credit cards may not be accepted depending on the card company's policies and the requirements of the identity verification service. Visitors to Japan should check the accepted cards and registration requirements in advance.
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 may sell out several weeks in advance. We recommend booking as early as possible once your travel dates are decided. Smart EX booking conditions and release dates may vary depending on the product and terms of use. Please check for the latest information.
Can the JR Pass be Used Between Kyoto and Odawara?
Overview of JR Pass
The "JR Pass" (Japan Rail Pass) is an unlimited travel pass for foreign visitors to Japan. It comes in three types: 7-day, 14-day, and 21-day passes. During the validity period, you can ride many JR trains, including Shinkansen, limited express, and local trains. The "Hikari" and "Kodama" trains used in this section can be used with a regular "JR Pass". Purchase and redemption methods may change, so please check the latest information on the JAPAN RAIL PASS official website.
Availability between Kyoto and Odawara
| Train | JR Pass Usage | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| "Hikari" | available | Both unreserved and reserved seats are available (only some trains stop at designated stations). |
| "Kodama" | available | Both unreserved and reserved seats are available. |
You Can Use "Hikari" and "Kodama" Trains with a "JR Pass".
"Nozomi" trains do not stop at Odawara Station. You will need to use "Hikari" (some trains) or "Kodama" trains. If using a "JR Pass", please also use "Hikari" (some trains) or "Kodama" trains. If you wish to use a reserved seat, please reserve your seat before boarding.
How to reserve seats and important points to note
When using the Shinkansen on this section with a JR Pass, please make a seat reservation if you wish to use a reserved seat. You can use trains with unreserved seats without a reservation. However, during peak seasons and busy times, you may not be able to find a seat in the unreserved section. If you want to be sure to get a seat, we recommend reserving a reserved seat in advance. Seat reservations can be made at JR station ticket counters, reserved 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 Kyoto and Odawara
Kyoto to Odawara Shinkansen Service Frequency
On the Tokaido Shinkansen line between Kyoto and Odawara, you can use either the "Hikari" (some trains) or "Kodama" trains. Since the number of "Hikari" trains that stop is limited, please check in advance if there are any trains that stop at your desired time. There are trains running from early morning to late at night, but the type of train varies depending on the time of day.
Guideline for the first and last trains
The number of Shinkansen trains departing from Kyoto Station bound for Odawara varies depending on the time of day. Please check the latest timetable for the first and last trains.
How to read a timetable
Ekitan (ekitan.com) allows you to easily check Shinkansen timetables and fares for the Kyoto-Odawara route. Simply enter your departure station, arrival station, and date, and the available trains and fares will be displayed. You can also check this information on your smartphone, so please confirm the latest timetable before your trip.
Kyoto Station to Odawara Station (excerpt, approximate route)
| Departure (Kyoto) | Train | Arrival (Odawara) | Travel Time from Departure to Arrival |
|---|---|---|---|
| 08:10 | "Kodama" 808 | 11:09 | Approximately 2 hours and 59 minutes |
| 08:33 | "Hikari" 642 | 10:38 | Approximately 2 hours and 5 minutes |
| 14:33 | "Hikari" 654 | 16:33 | Approximately 2 hours 00 minutes |
| 20:59 | "Hikari" 668 | 22:53 | Approximately 1 hour and 54 minutes |
*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 Kyoto to Odawara
This is a summary of Shinkansen (bullet train) travel from Kyoto to Odawara.
Trains used: "Hikari" (some trains) or "Kodama"
Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour and 54 minutes at the shortest. This varies depending on the train, stops, and whether transfers are required. Please check the Shinkansen timetable on Ekitan before publication.
"JR Pass": You can use a regular "JR Pass" for "Hikari" and "Kodama" trains.
Reservation methods: You can use the station's ticket office, designated seat ticket vending machines, Smart EX, etc.
Note: "Nozomi" trains do not stop at the target stations. "Hikari" trains only stop at a limited number of stations, so please check the timetable.
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