"THUNDERBIRD" Timetable, Fares, and How to Buy Tickets

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the JR West limited express "THUNDERBIRD" train connecting Osaka Station and Tsuruga Station, including its timetable, fares for representative routes, stations served, seating information, how to buy tickets, whether tickets need to be issued, and IC card compatibility. Due to the extension of the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Tsuruga in March 2024, the train's operating route has changed, so this article highlights key points to check before traveling.

The information in this article is current as of July 2026. Operating days, timetables, fares, and ticket purchase conditions may change, so please check the latest information on Ekitan or the railway company's official website before traveling.

The "THUNDERBIRD" is a JR West limited express train connecting Osaka Station and Tsuruga Station. For many years, it was a popular limited express train directly connecting Osaka and Kyoto with Kanazawa and Toyama, but with the extension of the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Tsuruga in March 2024, the operating section was shortened to Osaka Station to Tsuruga Station. Currently, passengers access Kanazawa and Toyama by transferring to the Hokuriku Shinkansen "Tsurugi" or other trains at Tsuruga Station. The train uses 683 series and 681 series electric trains, and all cars are reserved seating, with ordinary reserved seats and Green Car. Since its launch in 1995, it has long been a popular artery connecting Osaka and the Hokuriku region, but it has reached a major turning point with the extension of the Shinkansen. The train's exterior features a white base with blue and red lines, a color scheme that evokes the sky and sea of the Hokuriku region.

What is "THUNDERBIRD"?

The "THUNDERBIRD" is JR West's flagship limited express train, which debuted in 1995 and connects Osaka with the Hokuriku region. For a long time, it operated directly between Osaka Station and Kanazawa and Toyama Stations, but with the opening of the Hokuriku Shinkansen extension to Tsuruga on March 16, 2024, the operating section was changed to Osaka Station to Tsuruga Station. At Tsuruga Station, the Shinkansen platform and the conventional line platform are located within the same station premises, making transfers convenient. The train name "THUNDERBIRD" has a unique origin, being named after the popular American television program "Thunderbirds." The shortening of the operating section in 2024 was due to the extension of the Hokuriku Shinkansen from Kanazawa to Tsuruga, and can be seen as a transitional period towards the full opening of the Hokuriku Shinkansen line (extension to Osaka).

Train features and popular points

The appeal of the "THUNDERBIRD" train lies in its convenience, offering direct access from Osaka and Kyoto to Tsuruga without transfers, and the high performance of the 683 and 681 series trains. Although not a tilting train, it achieves stable running even on the curved sections of the JR Hokuriku Main Line and JR Kosei Line. The Shinkansen transfer gate at Tsuruga Station is designed to allow transfers on the same platform, shortening transfer times. Since the change in the operating section in 2024, it has played a role as intercity transportation connecting Osaka and Kyoto with Tsuruga City in Fukui Prefecture. The 681 series is also known as a train that was once planned to be the first conventional line train to operate at 160 km/h. The section overlooking Lake Biwa is particularly scenic on the JR Kosei Line, and on a clear day, you can clearly see the mountain range on the opposite shore.

"THUNDERBIRD" Timetable

*The "THUNDERBIRD" train operates more than ten round trips a day, so there are many services available.

Southbound (towards Tsuruga) timetable

Timetable for northbound trains (towards Osaka)

The "THUNDERBIRD" train operates more than ten round trips a day, mainly around Osaka Station. Many of the trains are scheduled to connect with the Hokuriku Shinkansen "Tsurugi" at Tsuruga Station, allowing for smooth transfers to destinations such as Kanazawa and Toyama.

Important information regarding operating days and days when the service is suspended.

The "THUNDERBIRD" train operates daily throughout the year. During severe weather, strong winds on the JR Kosei Line section tend to cause service suspensions and delays. The JR Hokuriku Main Line section is also susceptible to heavy snowfall, so it is recommended to check the service information on the day of travel if you plan to use the train during the winter.

"THUNDERBIRD" Operating Section

Main sections

• Osaka Station to Kyoto Station (JR Tokaido Main Line)
• Kyoto Station to Tsuruga Station (JR Kosei Line / JR Hokuriku Main Line)

Tsuruga Station became the (provisional) terminal station of the Hokuriku Shinkansen in March 2024, and boasts a highly convenient structure with Shinkansen and conventional line limited express platforms located within the same station premises. Tsuruga City also has tourist attractions such as the Tsuruga Red Brick Warehouse and Kehi Jingu Shrine. The Tsuruga Red Brick Warehouse is a tourist facility that utilizes an oil storage warehouse built during the Meiji era, and houses a diorama museum and a restaurant. Tsuruga City has a history of flourishing as a port of call for "Kitamae-bune" (northern route trading ships), and a unique culture characteristic of a port town thrives there. At the Port of Humanity Tsuruga Museum, you can learn about the history of "Tsuruga, the Port of Humanity," which accepted Jewish refugees during World War II.

"THUNDERBIRD" Stations Served

Main Stations Served

• Osaka Station
• Shin-Osaka Station (some trains)
• Kyoto Station
• Omi-Imazu Station (some trains)
• Tsuruga Station

*Stations served vary depending on the train.

"THUNDERBIRD" Fares

Fares for Representative Sections

*Fares may vary depending on whether it is peak or off-peak season.

Breakdown of Basic Fare and Limited Express Fare

The fare for the "THUNDERBIRD" is the sum of the basic fare to your destination and the limited express surcharge. Since all cars are reserved seating, please purchase a reserved seat limited express ticket before boarding. If you wish to use a Green Car, you will need to pay the Green Car surcharge in addition to the ordinary reserved seat fare. The previous transfer discount for transfers between Shinkansen and conventional line limited express trains has been abolished for travel as of March 16, 2024.

Transfer Fares with the Hokuriku Shinkansen

If you transfer to the Hokuriku Shinkansen at Tsuruga Station, you will need to pay separate limited express fares for the "THUNDERBIRD" and the Shinkansen. Since the previous transfer discount has been discontinued, please check the fares for each train you use. There may be special discount tickets available with certain conditions, such as those for EX service users. Please check the latest fares and products on Ekitan or the JR West official website. Kehi Jingu Shrine is a historic shrine known as the guardian shrine of the Hokuriku region, and its large torii gate is considered one of Japan's three greatest torii gates. If you want to enjoy a day trip to Tsuruga from Osaka or Kyoto, a route combining the Tsuruga Red Brick Warehouse and Kehi Jingu Shrine is convenient.

During peak seasons, demand for Green Car seats increases, so we recommend booking early.

How to Buy Tickets for "THUNDERBIRD"

e5489 (Internet reservation)

JR West's internet reservation service "e5489" allows you to purchase ticketless limited express tickets using a credit card. Limited express tickets go on sale one month before the date of travel.

 

 

Reserved Seat Ticket Machines and Midori-no-madoguchi

You can purchase limited express tickets at the station's reserved seat ticket machines or at the Midori-no-madoguchi. Please purchase your reserved seat limited express ticket before boarding.

Travel Agencies

Major travel agencies also offer tour packages that include tickets for the "THUNDERBIRD" limited express train.

How to Buy for International Tourists

The "THUNDERBIRD" is a JR West train, so it can be used with the JAPAN RAIL PASS. Even when using the pass, if you wish to use a reserved seat, you will need to obtain a separate reserved seat ticket. If you use the "THUNDERBIRD" with the JAPAN RAIL PASS and then transfer to the Hokuriku Shinkansen at Tsuruga Station, you can use the Shinkansen section without additional charge as long as it is within the pass's coverage area.

*The types of passes eligible and the applicable conditions may change.

Is Ticket Issuance Required?

If you purchased your ticket through the "e5489" ticketless service, you may be able to board the train by linking it to your smartphone screen or IC card. If you purchased your ticket at a designated seat ticket machine or at a Midori-no-madoguchi, you will need to receive a paper limited express ticket before boarding.

*Whether or not a ticket is required depends on the type of reservation service.

• Limited Express Price, Ticket and Timetable - Ekitan

Can I Use Contactless Payment with an IC Card or Credit Card?

For the sections of the "THUNDERBIRD" train service that fall within the ICOCA area, you can use a transportation IC card for the basic fare portion. However, the limited express fare portion cannot be paid using the balance on your IC card and must be purchased as a limited express ticket in advance.

On the routes served by the "THUNDERBIRD" train, contactless payment via credit card is being introduced at some stations and sections of the line.

*Please note that you cannot ride the limited express train using only your IC card. A limited express fare must be purchased separately.

"THUNDERBIRD" Seating Information

Seat Types

The "THUNDERBIRD" train is operated using 683 and 681 series electric trains and consists of ordinary reserved seats and Green Car.

Distinctive Seating Features

The 683 and 681 series trains are designed for high-speed operation on the JR Hokuriku Main Line, providing a comfortable ride. Some trains have power outlets at all seats, making them suitable for business travelers. The seat pitch is comparable to that of Shinkansen trains, ensuring comfort even on long journeys. Ordinary reserved seats include seats with large tables, convenient for working on laptops. Window seats offer the chance to enjoy magnificent views of Lake Biwa on the JR Kosei Line section. The interior lighting is unified in calming tones, making it easy on the eyes even during long journeys.

Large luggage storage area

A large luggage storage area is provided within the train set.

Barrier-free facilities

Wheelchair-accessible seating is available on the train. If you will be using a wheelchair, we recommend contacting JR West's ticket office or information center in advance.

*Details of seating arrangements may vary depending on the train configuration.

 

 

Bento Boxes and In-Train Gourmet Food to Enjoy on the "THUNDERBIRD" Train

Onboard sales service is not available on the "THUNDERBIRD" train. If you wish to enjoy a meal, it is recommended to prepare one in advance at a bento box shop or stall around Osaka Station or Kyoto Station. Osaka Station and Kyoto Station have a wide variety of bento box shops, making it convenient for preparing meals when heading towards the Hokuriku region.

*Onboard sales are not available.

Points to Note When Riding the "THUNDERBIRD"

While the "THUNDERBIRD" train offers reserved seating for all cars, if you plan to transfer to the Hokuriku Shinkansen, it's recommended to choose a train that allows ample time for your transfer at Tsuruga Station. The Shinkansen transfer gates at Tsuruga Station are located on the same floor, making transfers relatively smooth. In addition, the number of travelers enjoying day trips to Tsuruga from Osaka and Kyoto is increasing, making it a popular option for day trips. If you plan to sightsee around Lake Biwa, you might also want to consider getting off at intermediate stations such as Omi-Imazu Station. When planning your itinerary in advance, it's a good idea to check the transfer timetable to ensure a smooth journey.

Since there is no onboard service, please prepare any meals you plan to eat before boarding. The JR Kosei Line section is susceptible to strong winds, so it's a good idea to check the operating status during the winter months.

Summary

The "THUNDERBIRD" is a JR West limited express train connecting Osaka Station and Tsuruga Station. Its route was changed in March 2024 with the extension of the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Tsuruga. All cars are reserved seating, and passengers can choose from Green Car. By transferring to the Shinkansen at Tsuruga Station, passengers can access Kanazawa and Toyama. The JAPAN RAIL PASS can also be used, making it a major mode of transportation from Osaka and Kyoto to the Hokuriku region. While adapting to infrastructure changes such as the extension of the Hokuriku Shinkansen, it continues to play a vital role in connecting Osaka and Kyoto with Hokuriku. It is expected to continue to play an important role in supporting access to Hokuriku tourism through Tsuruga, its new gateway. If the Hokuriku Shinkansen is extended to Osaka in the future, the role of the "THUNDERBIRD" may change even further. The combination of the train's long-loved name and Tsuruga, its new terminal station, will continue to attract attention.

Enjoy the "THUNDERBIRD," which offers smooth connections with the Hokuriku Shinkansen, supporting your journey from Osaka and Kyoto to the Hokuriku region.

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.