"MORNING WAY ROMANCECAR" Timetable, Fares, and Ticket Purchasing Information
This article provides a comprehensive overview of Odakyu Electric Railway's limited express train, the "MORNING WAY ROMANCECAR", which connects Odawara, Fujisawa, and Hon-Atsugi stations to Shinjuku Station. It includes timetables, fares for representative routes, stations served, seating information, ticket purchasing procedures, ticket issuance requirements, and IC card compatibility. As it serves as an access train for those heading to central Tokyo during the morning commute, this article summarizes key points to check before your trip.
The information in this article is current as of July 2026. Operating days, timetables, fares, and ticket sales conditions may change, so please check the latest information on Ekitan or the railway company's official website before using the service.
"MORNING WAY" is the name given to the morning northbound Romancecar limited express trains operated by Odakyu Electric Railway. These trains cater to the morning commuter demand, traveling from Odawara, Fujisawa, and Hon-Atsugi to Shinjuku Station. As all seats are reserved, a limited express ticket (seat reservation) is required to ride. Its greatest feature is that passengers can be sure to find a seat and travel to the city center even during the crowded morning rush hour. It is the counterpart to "HOMEWAY", the southbound train in the evening, and supports morning and evening commuters. Many passengers use the time they can sit down to read or prepare for work. Since there are other trains with similar names and destinations, it is recommended to check the train name and destination on the departure information display before boarding. Item Content Train Name "MORNING WAY" Operating Company Odakyu Electric Railway Main Operating Sections From Odawara Station, Fujisawa Station, Hon-Atsugi Station to Shinjuku Station Main Starting and Ending Stations Odawara Station, Fujisawa Station, etc. / Shinjuku Station Number of Trains Running Several trains per day, mainly on weekday mornings. Travel Time Estimate Odawara to Shinjuku: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes Seating All seats are reserved. 
Table of Contents
- What is "MORNING WAY"?
- "MORNING WAY" Timetable
- Operating Sections of "MORNING WAY"
- "MORNING WAY" Stations Stopped At
- Fares for "MORNING WAY"
- How to Buy Tickets for "MORNING WAY"
- Do I Need a Physical Ticket?
- Can I Use Contactless Payment with an IC Card or Credit Card?
- Seating Information for "MORNING WAY"
- Enjoy Ekiben (Station Bento Boxes) and In-Train Gourmet Food on the "MORNING WAY"
- Points to Note When Riding the "MORNING WAY"
- Summary
What is "MORNING WAY"?
"MORNING WAY" is the name given to the Romancecar trains that head towards Shinjuku during the morning hours. Since the introduction of the SE series in 1957, the Odakyu Romancecar has been a beloved symbol of the Odakyu Electric Railway. Currently, trains such as the GSE (70000 series), EXEα (30000 series), and MSE (60000 series) are used. In the past, train names such as "Support" and "Shonan Marine" were used, but currently, morning northbound trains are designated as "MORNING WAY" and evening southbound trains as "HOMEWAY". A distinctive feature is that, while having the characteristics of a commuter liner, the same Romancecar trains used for sightseeing are employed.
Train features and popular points
The appeal of the "MORNING WAY" is that you can be sure to get a seat and travel to the city center even during the morning rush hour. Since all seats are reserved, your seat is secured before boarding, and you don't have to worry about standing during the journey. The express fare is set at a relatively affordable price range, making it easy to incorporate into your daily commute. On services using the GSE (70000 series), you may be able to ride in an observation seat. The EXEα (30000 series) is a train with a calm interior designed with commuters in mind, offering high capacity. Some trains offer free Wi-Fi service, so you can use your travel time to work. The seats are equipped with tables, and some passengers can be seen eating breakfast while traveling. In the morning, you can enjoy views of the Tanzawa Mountains and the rural landscape of Sagamino from the train windows in some sections.
"MORNING WAY" Timetable
Timetable for northbound trains (towards Shinjuku Station)
| Stations Stopped At | Example 1 | Example 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Odawara Station Depart | 6:33 | 7:10 |
| Shinjuku Station Arrive | 7:59 | 8:40 |
Points to note regarding the direction of driving
The "MORNING WAY" is a morning northbound train. It does not operate as a southbound train from Shinjuku Station towards Odawara or Fujisawa. The nighttime southbound train is called the "HOMEWAY".
The "MORNING WAY" is a train that arrives at Shinjuku Station by around 9:30 AM. The number of trains, departure stations, and stations stopped at differ between weekdays and weekends/holidays, so please check the timetable for your travel date.
Important information regarding operating days and days when the service is suspended.
The "MORNING WAY" train service has different operating frequencies and routes on weekdays and weekends/holidays. Because it's scheduled as a morning northbound train, it doesn't operate during the daytime or evening. The starting stations vary (Odawara, Fujisawa, and Hon-Atsugi), so it's necessary to check before boarding.
Operating Sections of "MORNING WAY"
Main sections
- Odawara Station to Sagami-Ono Station (Odakyu Odawara Line)
- Fujisawa Station to Sagami-Ono Station (Odakyu Enoshima Line)
- Sagami-Ono Station to Shinjuku Station (Odakyu Odawara Line)
Shinjuku Station is a massive terminal station served by the Odakyu Line, as well as JR lines and various subway lines. Odawara Station is the closest station to Odawara Castle and is also known as a gateway to the Hakone area. From Fujisawa Station, you can transfer to the Enoshima Electric Railway to access Enoshima and Kamakura. From Hon-Atsugi Station, you can access hiking trails to Mt. Oyama and the Tanzawa Mountains. The area around Hadano Station is known for its spring water from the Tanzawa Mountains. The area around Ebina Station has large commercial facilities where you can enjoy shopping and dining. The area around Machida Station is one of the central commercial areas in northern Kanagawa Prefecture. Since getting to nearby tourist attractions mainly involves buses and walking, it's a good idea to check local transportation options beforehand. Tourist information centers are sometimes located around the stations where you can obtain maps and brochures.
"MORNING WAY" Stations Stopped At
Main stops
- Odawara Station
- Hadano Station
- Hon-Atsugi Station
- Ebina Station
- Sagami-Ono Station
- Machida Station
- Shinjuku Station
*Stations stopped at vary depending on the train.
Fares for "MORNING WAY"
Representative section fare
| Section | Total Fare | Basic Fare Ticket | Limited Express Fare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Odawara Station to Shinjuku Station | 1,910 yen | 910 yen | 1,000 yen |
The fare shown is a one-way fare for an adult using a reserved seat. Please check the latest fares on the Ekitan website or the Odakyu Electric Railway official website.
Breakdown of Basic Fare Ticket and Limited Express Fare
The fare for the "MORNING WAY" is the sum of the basic fare to your destination and the limited express surcharge. Odakyu's limited express surcharges are set in stages according to the distance of the journey. If you have a commuter pass, you can ride by purchasing only the limited express surcharge. When purchasing tickets, make sure you have both the basic fare ticket and the limited express ticket. Private railway limited express surcharges are set according to the journey section and do not fluctuate with high and off-peak seasons like JR. The fare is divided into the "basic fare" for the journey to your destination and the "limited express surcharge" for riding the limited express train. Note that you cannot ride the limited express with just a basic fare ticket, as you must purchase both.
When used in conjunction with a commuter pass
If you have an Odakyu Line commuter pass, you only need to purchase an additional limited express fare to ride the Romancecar. Within the zone covered by your pass, you do not need to pay the fare again. This system allows many people to incorporate the Romancecar into their daily commute. The limited express fare is set in stages depending on the distance traveled.
How to buy tickets for "MORNING WAY"
Romancecar @ Club (Internet Reservation)
Odakyu Electric Railway's internet reservation service, "Romancecar@Club," allows you to purchase limited express tickets using a credit card. Registered members can utilize a ticketless service, boarding by simply showing their smartphone screen. Limited express tickets go on sale one month prior to the travel date. When making a reservation, you specify the travel date, section, train name, and number of passengers, and then select your seats. In addition to credit cards, cash is also accepted depending on the purchase method. Changes and refunds after booking are subject to certain conditions and fees.
Station Ticket Offices and Limited Express Ticket Vending Machines
You can purchase limited express tickets at ticket vending machines and ticket offices at major Odakyu stations. Ticket offices can get crowded during the morning hours, so it's convenient to book online in advance. Many ticket vending machines support multiple languages, making them easy to use even if you don't understand Japanese. At the ticket office, simply tell the staff your destination and desired departure time, and they will guide you to the appropriate train. Ticket offices can get crowded during high season, so it's best to go with plenty of time to spare.
Travel Agencies
Major travel agencies handle Odakyu Railway's special tickets and travel packages to the Hakone area.
How to Buy for Foreign Tourists
The "MORNING WAY" is an Odakyu Electric Railway train and is therefore not covered by the JR Pass. Odakyu Electric Railway sells special tickets for foreign tourists, but in all cases, the Romancecar limited express fare is required separately. Some station ticket offices offer information in foreign languages. Special tickets for foreign tourists may have limited purchase conditions and sales locations, so it is advisable to check before traveling.
Do I Need a Physical Ticket?
With the "Romancecar@Club" ticketless service, you can board without receiving a paper ticket. If you purchased your ticket at a station ticket machine or ticket office, you will need to carry a paper limited express ticket with you when you board. If you do receive a paper ticket, it is best to pick it up well in advance of your departure, rather than right before boarding. Tickets cannot be reissued if lost, so please keep them safe during your journey.
Can I Use Contactless Payment with an IC Card or Credit Card?
While you can use transportation IC cards such as PASMO and Suica on the Odakyu Line, only the basic fare portion is covered. Limited express fares cannot be paid using the IC card balance, so you must purchase a limited express ticket in advance. Transportation IC cards can sometimes be used across regions due to the nationwide interoperability service. However, the usable area is determined by each railway company, so be sure to check in advance whether your journey is within their service area.
Contactless payment via credit card is not available for boarding at ticket gates.
Seating Information for "MORNING WAY"
Seat Types
The "MORNING WAY" train operates with all seats reserved. The trains used are Romancecar trains such as the GSE, EXEα, and MSE. During high season, seats fill up quickly, so it's best to book early once your travel dates are decided. You may be able to choose between window and aisle seats when booking. If you want to sit together with your travel companions, booking together makes it easier to secure adjacent seats.
| Seat Type | Content |
|---|---|
| Standard Reserved Seat | Standard 2+2 seating arrangement, all seats reserved. |
| Observation Seat | Installed at the front and rear ends of the GSE (70000 series) train cars. |
Distinctive seating
The GSE (70000 series) is characterized by its observation seats, made possible by the placement of the driver's cab on the second floor. The side windows extend almost to the ceiling, creating a bright and open interior. The EXEα (30000 series) is a train characterized by its calm interior and high capacity. Depending on the train, each seat may have a power outlet or free Wi-Fi, allowing you to make the most of your travel time. Window seats are suitable for those who want to enjoy the scenery, while aisle seats are suitable for those who prioritize ease of boarding and alighting. For long journeys, it is recommended to check the seat location and make a reservation in advance for a more comfortable experience.
Large Luggage Storage Area
Some train cars have luggage racks at the ends of the carriages.
Barrier-Free Facilities
Some train cars have wheelchair-accessible seating. If you plan to use this service, we recommend contacting Odakyu Electric Railway in advance. Multipurpose rooms and wheelchair-accessible facilities may vary depending on the train car and train set.
Enjoy Ekiben (Station Bento Boxes) and In-Train Gourmet Food on the "MORNING WAY"
There is no onboard sales service on the "MORNING WAY" train. It is recommended to purchase drinks and snacks at station shops before boarding. At Odawara Station, you can purchase Odawara specialties such as kamaboko (fish cake) and horse mackerel pressed sushi. Some passengers enjoy a simple breakfast of coffee and bread during their morning journey. If you eat or drink on board, please be considerate of others by avoiding foods with strong odors to ensure a pleasant experience. Dispose of empty containers and trash in the trash cans on board or at the station after disembarking.
Points to Note When Riding the "MORNING WAY"
The "MORNING WAY" is an all-reserved-seat train, so you cannot board without purchasing a limited express ticket. Weekday morning trains may fill up quickly due to commuter use. The starting stations vary (Odawara, Fujisawa, and Hon-Atsugi), so please check before boarding. Even if you are using a commuter pass, a separate limited express fare is required. The number of trains may be reduced on weekends and holidays. Before boarding, please check the train name, car number, and seat number written on your ticket. If you are bringing large luggage, please use the luggage racks or overhead compartments so as not to block the aisle. Onboard, it is good manners to keep phone calls to a minimum so as not to disturb other passengers.
Since there is no onboard service, be sure to prepare drinks and snacks before boarding. Checking the train schedule on a site like Ekitan before boarding will help you calmly deal with delays or cancellations.
Summary
The "MORNING WAY" is a limited express Romancecar train operated by Odakyu Electric Railway in the mornings heading towards the city center. Its greatest appeal is that all seats are reserved, guaranteeing a seat even during the crowded morning commute. It forms a pair with the evening "HOMEWAY" and is a beloved train supporting commuters along the Odakyu line.
Enjoy a comfortable morning journey with "MORNING WAY," where you can start your day at a leisurely pace.
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