Shinkansen fares and ticket reservation methods from Morioka to Sendai
Overview of travel methods from Morioka to Sendai
You can travel from Morioka Station to Sendai Station using the Tohoku Shinkansen (bullet train).
This article explains Shinkansen (bullet train) fares, travel time, 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 Morioka to Sendai
- Fastest trains: "Hayabusa" and Komachi; Travel time: Approximately 38 minutes
- Some "Yamabiko" trains have unreserved seating.
- Unreserved seat fare for trains with unreserved seating ("Yamabiko"): 6,160 yen
- Reserved seat (standard class) fare: "Hayabusa"/Komachi 6,700 yen, "Yamabiko" 6,490 yen
- Green Car fares: "Hayabusa"/Komachi 8,970 yen, "Yamabiko" 8,760 yen
- Available trains: "Hayabusa", Komachi, "Yamabiko"
- JR Pass: Please refer to "Can the JR Pass be used between Morioka and Sendai?" 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 Sendai (destination) as a tourist destination
Sendai is the largest city in the Tohoku region and is known as the "City of Trees," boasting a charming cityscape of lush greenery. The ruins of Sendai Castle (Aoba Castle), built by Date Masamune, offer a spectacular panoramic view of the city, and an equestrian statue welcomes visitors. Matsushima, one of Japan's three most scenic spots, is easily accessible from Sendai by train in about 40 minutes, and offers a historical exploration experience along with the national treasure, Zuiganji Temple. Sendai's signature dish is grilled beef tongue, with specialty shops concentrated around the station. Zunda sweets and sasakama (fish cake) are also popular souvenirs. The Sendai Tanabata Festival, held in August, is one of Tohoku's three major festivals, with colorful Tanabata decorations adorning the shopping streets. It can be reached from Morioka in as little as 38 minutes.
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Shinkansen Fares from Morioka to Sendai
Overall view of Shinkansen fares from Morioka to Sendai
Between Morioka Station and Sendai Station, you can use the Tohoku Shinkansen's "Hayabusa" and "Yamabiko" trains. "Hayabusa" trains are all reserved seating. Some "Yamabiko" trains have unreserved seating. 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. We recommend booking early to ensure a comfortable journey.
Compare prices for travel between Morioka and Sendai.
| Seat | Fare (Estimate) | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Unreserved seats on trains with unreserved seating ("Yamabiko") | 6,160 yen | No seat number is assigned; you can board if there are empty seats. |
| Reserved seats ("Hayabusa"/Komachi) | 6,700 yen | All seats are reserved, and you can travel by express train. |
| Reserved seat ("Yamabiko") | 6,490 yen | A seat number is assigned, guaranteeing you a seat. |
| Green Car ("Hayabusa"/Komachi) | 8,970 yen | You can travel comfortably in spacious seats. |
| Green Car ("Yamabiko") | 8,760 yen | It's more comfortable than a standard car. |
*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
On trains with unreserved seats, there is no assigned seat number; 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 seat area can become extremely crowded, and you may have to stand. If you want to guarantee a seat, please use reserved seats, which requires advance booking.
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 "O-saki Toku-da-ne".
Features and comfort of Green Cars
Green Cars offer more spacious seats than ordinary 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 offices, designated seat ticket machines, or through compatible online reservation services.
Travel time from Morioka to Sendai
Shortest Shinkansen travel time between Morioka and Sendai
The shortest travel time from Morioka Station to Sendai Station is approximately 38 minutes. The fastest trains are the "Hayabusa" and Komachi. The "Yamabiko" train makes more stops, so the travel time is longer.
*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 |
|---|---|---|
| "Hayabusa" | Stops only at major stations (Morioka to Sendai) | Approximately 38 minutes |
| Komachi | Stops only at major stations (Morioka to Sendai) | Approximately 38 minutes |
| "Yamabiko" | Stops at many stations | Approximately 1 hour 10 minutes to 1 hour 20 minutes |
*Fares, travel time, and train names are subject to change. Please check Ekitan's Shinkansen timetable, latest fares, and schedules before publication.
The speed and features of the Tohoku Shinkansen
The Tohoku Shinkansen is part of Japan's bullet train network, boasting high safety and punctuality. It reaches a maximum speed of 320 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 "Hayabusa", Komachi, and "Yamabiko"
The Tohoku Shinkansen, which runs between Morioka and Sendai, operates three trains: "Hayabusa", Komachi, and "Yamabiko". "Hayabusa" and Komachi are express trains with all seats reserved. Some "Yamabiko" trains have unreserved seating. Please choose a train that suits your itinerary and budget.
Stations and characteristics of each train
The fastest trains are the "Hayabusa" or Komachi. They can travel from Morioka to Sendai in approximately 38 minutes. The "Yamabiko" has more stops, so the journey takes longer, but some trains offer unreserved seating.
Morioka to Sendai: Travel time by train
The "Hayabusa" is an express train that stops only at major stations. It connects Morioka and Sendai in approximately 38 minutes. All seats are reserved, so seat reservations are required before boarding, but it can be used with a regular JR Pass.
The Komachi train is also available as an express service between Morioka and Sendai. Since all seats are reserved, you need to reserve your seat before boarding.
The "Yamabiko" train has many stops and therefore takes a long time to travel. However, some trains offer unreserved seating, making it a good option if you want to save money.
*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 Morioka and Sendai
If you want to travel as quickly as possible, we recommend using the "Hayabusa" or Komachi trains. Both can be used with a regular JR Pass, but since all seats are reserved, seat reservations are required. If you want to save money or prefer unreserved seats, check out the "Yamabiko" train, which has unreserved seating.
Points to consider when choosing a train
You can check timetables and seat availability on Ekitan (ekitan.com) or Ekinet. 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 Morioka and Sendai: ① at the station's ticket office (Midori-no-madoguchi), ② at a designated seat ticket vending machine, and ③ online (e.g., via Ekinet). Foreign credit cards are accepted at many ticket offices 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 offices are crowded. If you have a JR Pass, you may be able to make seat reservations at the vending machines.
Online reservation (Ekinet)
Eki-net (https://www.eki-net.com) is the official online reservation service of JR East and JR Hokkaido. Reservations can be made from smartphones and PCs, and payments can be made by credit card. However, availability may vary depending on the card company and identity verification requirements, so please check the latest terms of use. Early bird discounts may be available for reservations made in advance. Applicable routes, products, and sales conditions vary depending on the time of year, so please check the latest information. Cancellations and changes after reservation can also be made online under certain conditions.
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. Once your travel dates are decided, we recommend booking as early as possible. You can book through Ekinet from 10:00 AM one month prior to the date of travel. Also, please note that there may be a fee for changing or refunding tickets, so we recommend booking only after your itinerary is finalized.
Can I use the JR Pass between Morioka and Sendai?
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 take unlimited rides on many JR trains, including Shinkansen, limited express, and local trains. 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 Morioka and Sendai
| Train | JR Pass Usage | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| "Hayabusa" | Available (seat reservation required) | All seats are reserved, so seat reservations are required (can be used with a regular JR Pass). |
| Komachi | Available (seat reservation required) | All seats are reserved, so seat reservations are required (can be used with a regular JR Pass). |
| "Yamabiko" | Available | Some trains have unreserved seating. |
Regarding seat reservations for trains such as ""Hayabusa""
You can ride the "Hayabusa" train with a JR Pass, but since all seats are reserved, you need to reserve a seat. Seat reservations can be made at JR station ticket offices, reserved seat ticket machines, and compatible online reservation services. Reserved seats tend to sell out quickly during peak season, so please make your reservation early.
Regarding seat reservations when using JR Pass
When using the Shinkansen on this section with a JR Pass, you must reserve a seat before boarding on trains with all reserved seats, such as the "Hayabusa" and Komachi. You can board the "Yamabiko" with unreserved seats without a seat reservation, but you may not be able to find a seat during peak hours. If you want to be sure to get a seat, please reserve a reserved seat at a JR station ticket office, reserved seat ticket machine, or compatible 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.
Morioka to Sendai Shinkansen Timetable
Morioka to Sendai Shinkansen service frequency
The Tohoku Shinkansen between Morioka and Sendai operates approximately once every 30 minutes to an hour. The available trains are the "Hayabusa" and "Yamabiko", with the type of train varying depending on the time of day. Service begins early in the morning and continues late into the night, offering flexibility to suit your travel schedule.
*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 Morioka Station leaves around 6:19 AM, and the last train departs around 9:11 PM. By taking an early morning train, you can enjoy a full day of sightseeing in the Sendai 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 Morioka-Sendai 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.
Morioka Station to Sendai Station (excerpt, approximate route)
| Time Slot | Train Name | Departure to Arrival | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Morning | "Hayabusa" 4 | 06:37→07:15 | Approximately 38 minutes |
| Morning | Komachi No. 8 | 07:59→08:37 | Approximately 38 minutes |
| Morning | "Hayabusa" 10 | 08:50→09:29 | Approximately 39 minutes |
| Morning | "Yamabiko" No. 50 | 06:10→07:33 | Approximately 1 hour and 23 minutes |
*This timetable is an example. Please check the latest departure and arrival times on Ekitan's Shinkansen timetable.
*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 Morioka to Sendai
This summarizes the Shinkansen (bullet train) journey from Morioka to Sendai.
Estimated fares: "Yamabiko" unreserved seat 6,160 yen, "Hayabusa"/Komachi reserved seat 6,700 yen, Green Car 8,970 yen
Minimum travel time: Approximately 38 minutes (when using "Hayabusa" or Komachi trains)
It can be used with JR Pass (seat reservations are required for trains with all reserved seats).
There are three ways to purchase tickets: at the station's ticket office (Midori-no-madoguchi), at a designated seat ticket vending machine, or through Ekinet (online).
During peak season, reserved seats can sell out quickly, so book your tickets as soon as your travel itinerary is finalized. Make use of the Tohoku Shinkansen to suit your travel plans to Japan.
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