Shinkansen fares and ticket reservation methods from Tokyo to Atami

Overview of how to travel from Tokyo to Atami

Atami is easily accessible from Tokyo by Tokaido Shinkansen in as little as 35 minutes. It's a very popular hot spring resort, being the closest to Tokyo that can be reached by Shinkansen. This article provides detailed information on Shinkansen fares, travel time, and ticket booking methods. We've also compiled useful information for your hot spring trip, including rules for using the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) and hotel information around Atami Station.

Basic information about getting from Tokyo to Atami

• Shortest travel time: Approximately 35 minutes (when using "Hikari" or "Kodama" trains)
• Unreserved seat fare: Approximately 3,760 yen
• Reserved seat fare: Approximately 4,650 yen
• Available trains: "Kodama", some "Hikari" trains
• Note: The "Nozomi" train does not stop at Atami Station.
• JR Pass: Available

Atami's appeal as a tourist destination

Atami is one of Japan's leading seaside hot spring resorts. It boasts numerous attractions, including year-round fireworks displays and the MOA Museum of Art. Located just 35 minutes from Tokyo, it's perfect for day trips or weekend getaways. Many travelers from both Japan and abroad visit Atami seeking its abundant hot springs and mild climate.

Shinkansen fare from Tokyo to Atami

Overall view of Shinkansen fares from Tokyo to Atami

The Shinkansen fare from Tokyo Station to Atami Station varies depending on the seat class you choose. Only the "Kodama" and some "Hikari" trains stop at Atami Station; the fastest "Nozomi" trains do not stop there. The fares are approximate, and during peak seasons (New Year's, Golden Week, Obon), a peak season surcharge may be added to reserved seats and Green Car seats. You may be able to purchase tickets at a discounted fare by using SmartEX or EX-Reservation.

[Price List] Price comparison for unreserved seats, reserved seats, and Green Car seats.

Features and advantages of unreserved seating

Unreserved seats are the cheapest seating option, and you don't need to purchase a reserved seat ticket before boarding. The Tokyo-Atami route is a short distance, with the shortest travel time being 35 minutes, so unreserved seats are usually comfortable. However, during weekends, holidays, summer, and the New Year period, the train may be full due to the influx of hot spring tourists. Unreserved seats on the Kodama train are available in multiple cars, making it easier to secure a seat. It's recommended to line up on the platform early.

Features and usage scenarios of reserved seats

Reserved seats allow you to secure your seat number before boarding, so you can travel without worrying about crowds. Reserved seats are especially convenient if you have a lot of luggage on a hot spring trip, or if you are traveling in a group or with family, as you can secure seats next to each other. Early bird fares may be available if you book online in advance using SmartEX or EX-Reservation. Popular weekend services can fill up quickly, so it is recommended to book as soon as your travel dates are decided.

Features and comfort of Green Cars

Green Cars are a premium class offering more spacious seats and enhanced amenities compared to standard class. The seats are arranged in a 2+2 configuration (some 2+1 configurations), and the reclining angle is significantly increased. Since the Tokyo-Atami journey is a short 35 minutes, to fully enjoy the comfort of Green Cars, it's recommended to combine it with a trip to the Izu area beyond Atami, or for a round trip. It's also an ideal class for special anniversary trips or travel with a loved one.

Travel time from Tokyo to Atami

Shortest Shinkansen journey from Tokyo to Atami

The shortest travel time from Tokyo Station to Atami Station using the Shinkansen "Kodama" or "Hikari" (which stops at Atami) is approximately 35 minutes. Atami is the only hot spring resort that can be reached from Tokyo in the 30-minute range by Shinkansen, making it truly the closest hot spring resort to Tokyo. The "Nozomi" does not stop at Atami Station, so it cannot be used. The travel time of just 35 minutes makes it a distance that is perfectly suitable for a weekend day trip.

Average travel time and difference between trains

The average journey time for the "Kodama" train is approximately 35 to 50 minutes, with slight variations depending on the train. If some "Hikari" trains stop at Atami Station, the journey time is approximately 35 to 40 minutes. The "Kodama" train stops at all stations on the Tokaido Shinkansen line between Tokyo and Atami, including Shinagawa, Shin-Yokohama, and Odawara, making it easy to board from intermediate stations such as Odawara. If time is your top priority, choose the "Hikari" train that stops at Atami; if you prioritize the frequency of service, choose the "Kodama" train.

The speed and features of the Tokaido Shinkansen

The Tokaido Shinkansen operates at a maximum speed of 285 km/h and is one of the busiest Shinkansen lines in Japan. The distance between Tokyo and Atami is short, about 104 km, and the high speed of the Shinkansen significantly reduces travel time compared to conventional lines. As you approach Sagami Bay, the scenery from the train windows unfolds, and just before Atami, there are sections where you can enjoy the blue waters of the Pacific Ocean and Sagami Bay on the left side in the direction of travel (A and B seats).

Comparison of travel time with air travel

The distance between Tokyo and Atami is relatively short, approximately 104 km, making air travel uncommon. Including access to the nearest airports (Haneda and Narita) and boarding procedures, the total travel time by plane is significantly longer than the approximately 35 minutes by Shinkansen (bullet train). For this route, the Shinkansen is the fastest and most practical mode of transportation.

Time comparison with cars and conventional trains

By car, using the Tomei Expressway and National Route 135, the journey takes approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours. Traffic congestion is common on weekends and holidays, and travel times can be significantly longer, especially during the summer and New Year period. By conventional train (JR Tokaido Main Line), the journey takes approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 1 hour 40 minutes. Considering punctuality and short travel time, the Shinkansen (bullet train) is the best mode of transportation between Tokyo and Atami.

Which train is the fastest?

The difference between "Nozomi," "Hikari," and "Kodama"

On the Tokaido Shinkansen (Tokyo to Atami), only the "Kodama" and some "Hikari" trains stop at Atami Station. The fastest train, the "Nozomi," does not stop at Atami Station, so it cannot be used on this section. While the "Kodama" has frequent service and is easy to board, it makes more stops, resulting in a slightly longer journey time. Some "Hikari" trains stop at Atami Station, but the number of services is limited, so it is necessary to check the timetable in advance.

Stations and characteristics of each train

The "Kodama" train stops at all stations on the Tokaido Shinkansen line between Tokyo and Atami, including Shinagawa, Shin-Yokohama, and Odawara. It has frequent service and is the most convenient train to use for travel to Atami. Some "Hikari" trains stop at Tokyo, Shinagawa, Shin-Yokohama, Odawara, and Atami, and have fewer stops than the "Kodama," resulting in a shorter travel time. Whether a "Hikari" train stops at Atami Station varies by service, so be sure to check the timetable.

[Train Comparison Chart] Comparison of Travel Times

Recommended trains from Tokyo to Atami

If time is your top priority, the "Hikari" train that stops at Atami Station is recommended. However, there are few "Hikari" trains that stop at Atami, so you will need to adjust your departure time. If the wait for the "Hikari" is long, choosing the "Kodama" train may actually get you there faster. Compare departure and arrival times using transportation information services such as Ekitan to choose the best train for you. When traveling to Atami, what's more important than the speed of the train is departing at a time that is convenient for you.

Points to consider when choosing a train

When choosing a train between Tokyo and Atami, first check if there is a "Hikari" train that stops at Atami at your desired departure time. Since the stopping patterns of "Hikari" trains vary by service, checking the timetable is essential. If you are using a JR Pass, you can use both "Hikari" and "Kodama" trains. Because early mornings on weekends are crowded with hot spring tourists, it is recommended to reserve a seat in advance using SmartEX or EX-Reservation.

How to book Shinkansen tickets

Basic methods for purchasing Shinkansen tickets

Shinkansen tickets between Tokyo and Atami can be purchased in three ways: at station ticket counters, ticket machines, or online. In all cases, tickets can be purchased or reserved up to one month before the travel date. Due to the concentration of hot spring tourists on weekends, holidays, summer, and during the New Year period, reserved seats may fill up quickly. We recommend booking as soon as your travel dates are decided. Payment can be made by cash, credit card, or transportation IC card.

How to purchase at the station ticket window

Shinkansen tickets can be purchased at the "Midori-no-Madoguchi" (manned ticket counters) at JR stations. Simply tell the staff your departure station, arrival station, date and time, number of passengers, and seat class to complete the process. Major stations such as Tokyo Station also have English-speaking counters, so even those who are not confident in their Japanese can use the service with ease. Payment can be made with cash, credit cards, or transportation IC cards.

How to use a ticket vending machine

You can also purchase Shinkansen tickets at the "reserved seat ticket vending machines" installed at stations. Many of these machines now support multiple languages, including English, Chinese, Korean, and French, allowing you to purchase tickets simply by following the on-screen instructions. Since credit cards such as Visa, Mastercard, JCB, and American Express are accepted, you don't need cash. Using a ticket vending machine is a smoother option if the ticket counters are crowded.

Online booking (SmartEX official website)

For online reservations, JR Central's "SmartEX" and "EX-Reservation" services are convenient. SmartEX allows you to pass through ticket gates using your smartphone or IC card (such as Suica) without needing a physical ticket. EX-Reservation offers greater discounts than SmartEX and is especially recommended for frequent Shinkansen users. Visitors from overseas can also utilize the English-language "SmartEX" and travel booking websites (such as Klook and Railpass).

Points to note when making a reservation

When making a reservation, be sure to select a "Kodama" or "Hikari" train that stops at Atami Station, not a "Nozomi" train. Since some "Hikari" trains do not stop at Atami Station, it is important to check the stopping stations on the reservation screen. Weekend morning (departing from Tokyo) and evening/night (departing from Atami) trains are particularly crowded, so we recommend securing your reserved seat by the day before.

Can the JR Pass be used between Tokyo and Atami?

Overview of JR Pass

The JR Pass is a special ticket for travelers who do not reside in Japan, offering unlimited rides on JR lines. It comes in 7-day, 14-day, and 21-day versions, allowing unlimited travel on JR Shinkansen, limited express, and local trains without additional charges during the validity period. It's an extremely cost-effective pass for travelers exploring various parts of Japan, and can be purchased at travel agencies outside of Japan or at select ticket counters within Japan. A passport is required for use.

[JR Pass Eligibility Chart] Eligibility for use between Tokyo and Atami

Restrictions on the use of "Nozomi"

The "Nozomi" Shinkansen cannot be used with the JR Pass, and it does not stop at Atami Station. Therefore, you cannot use the "Nozomi" Shinkansen to travel between Tokyo and Atami. Whether you have a JR Pass or not, please choose the "Kodama" Shinkansen or the "Hikari" Shinkansen, which stops at Atami, to get to Atami.

Conditions for using "Hikari" and "Kodama"

If you have a JR Pass, you can ride in the unreserved seats of the "Kodama" train without any additional charge. If you are using the "Hikari" train, be sure to check whether it stops at Atami Station. If you wish to use a reserved seat, you must reserve a seat at the station's "Midori-no-Madoguchi" (ticket office) or a reserved seat ticket vending machine before boarding. There is no additional charge for reserving a seat.

Points to note when using JR Pass

Since the JR Pass is valid for consecutive days from the start date, it's important to carefully set the start date to match your travel schedule. If your travel plans include visiting multiple cities such as Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima, not just Tokyo and Atami, you'll often get your money's worth with the JR Pass. The JR Pass is particularly effective for itineraries that combine sightseeing in Atami with tours of other cities.

Shinkansen timetable between Tokyo and Atami

Tokyo-Atami Shinkansen service frequency

The Shinkansen between Tokyo and Atami is served by "Kodama" trains and some "Hikari" trains. "Kodama" trains run approximately every 30 minutes even during the day, making them convenient to board at any time of day. "Hikari" trains that stop at Atami Station are less frequent, running only about once every 1-2 hours, so it is recommended to check the timetable in advance before departing. During the hot spring season and on days with fireworks displays, the area becomes very crowded, so early reservations are necessary.

Guideline for the first and last trains

The first trains departing from Tokyo Station leave as early as 6:00 AM, and the last train to Atami Station departs around 10:00-11:00 PM. The last train arrives at Atami Station around 11:00 PM. If you take the first train in the early morning, you can arrive in Atami around 7:00 AM, allowing you to enjoy early check-in at a hot spring inn or a morning stroll through Atami Plum Garden. If you take the last train late at night, you can travel to Atami on the same day even after finishing your business in Tokyo.

How to read a timetable

You can check the Shinkansen timetable between Tokyo and Atami on JR Central's official website or on transportation information services such as SmartEX and Ekitan. When searching, enter your departure station "Tokyo", arrival station "Atami", travel date, and time to see a list of times and fares for both "Kodama" and "Hikari" trains. Since only a limited number of "Hikari" trains stop at Atami, be sure to check the stopping stations when searching.

[Timetable] Tokyo Station ⇒ Atami Station (Excerpt/Approximate)

*Actual times and train numbers may change depending on the season and schedule revisions. Please check the latest information on Ekitan or other sites.

Peak hours and points to note

The Tokyo-Atami route is especially crowded on weekends, public holidays, during the summer (July-August), the New Year's holiday period, and on the days of the Atami Sea Fireworks Festival. Weekend morning departures (from Tokyo) and evening/night departures (from Atami) may be full with passengers returning from hot spring trips. For unreserved seats on the Kodama train, it is recommended to line up early on the platform. Reserved seats can be booked online in advance, allowing for a comfortable journey without worrying about crowds on the day of travel.

Summary: Shinkansen from Tokyo to Atami

The fastest and most convenient way to travel from Tokyo to Atami is by the Tokaido Shinkansen. The fare is approximately 3,760 yen for an unreserved seat, 4,650 yen for a reserved seat, and 6,700 yen for a Green Car seat. The journey takes as little as 35 minutes, making Atami an extremely popular hot spring resort as the closest Shinkansen destination to Tokyo. It significantly reduces travel time compared to cars or conventional trains, making it ideal for both weekend day trips and overnight hot spring getaways. An important point to note is that the "Nozomi" does not stop at Atami Station, so you will need to choose either the "Kodama" or the "Hikari" which does stop at Atami. Since some "Hikari" trains do not stop at Atami Station, be sure to check the stopping stations before booking and boarding. If you have a JR Pass, you can use either the "Hikari" or "Kodama" trains. Tickets can be purchased at the "Midori-no-Madoguchi" (ticket office) at stations, at reserved seat ticket machines, or online (SmartEX, EX-Reservation, etc.). Reserved seats fill up quickly on weekends, during the summer, and on days with fireworks displays, so we recommend booking as soon as your travel dates are decided. Start your trip to Atami, where you can enjoy abundant hot springs and spectacular views of Sagami Bay, with a comfortable Shinkansen ride.

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 to Japan.
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.