Shinkansen Fares and Ticket Booking Methods from Tokyo to Mishima

Overview of how to travel from Tokyo to Mishima

You can travel from Tokyo to Mishima using the Tokaido Shinkansen. Using the fastest "Hikari" service that stops at Mishima, the travel time is approximately 40-45 minutes. This article explains Shinkansen fares, travel times, and ticket booking methods. We've also compiled useful information for your trip to Japan, including JR Pass usage rules and the types of trains you can use.

Basic information about traveling from Tokyo to Mishima

• Shortest travel time: Approximately 45 minutes (when using a "Hikari" service that stops at Mishima)
• Fare for unreserved seats (no reservation required): Approximately 4,370 yen
• Fare for reserved seats (reservation required): Approximately 5,060 yen
• Available trains: "Hikari" (Mishima-stopping services only), "Kodama"
• Note: The "Nozomi" does not stop at Mishima Station.
• JR Pass: Available on "Hikari" and "Kodama" services.

Mishima's appeal as a tourist destination

Mishima is a city located in the northeastern part of Shizuoka Prefecture, blessed with abundant nature thanks to the spring water from Mount Fuji. Mishima Taisha Shrine, the city's top tourist attraction, is a historic shrine known since ancient times as the Ichinomiya (first-ranked shrine) of Izu Province. Visitors can also enjoy beautiful scenery where water and greenery harmonize, such as Rakujuen Garden, a natural park formed on Mount Fuji's lava flow, and the Genbei River, where clear spring water flows. Mishima is also famous for its eel dishes, with many specialty restaurants serving eels raised in the spring water of Mount Fuji. Furthermore, Mishima Station is the starting point of the Izuhakone Railway, making it an ideal base for sightseeing in various parts of the Izu Peninsula, including Shuzenji Onsen, Hakone, and Atami. The travel time from Tokyo is approximately 40-55 minutes, making it easily accessible for a day trip.

Shinkansen Fare from Tokyo to Mishima

Overall View of Shinkansen Fares from Tokyo to Mishima

The Shinkansen fare from Tokyo Station to Mishima Station varies depending on the seat class and train type you choose. The Tokaido Shinkansen operates three types of trains: "Nozomi", "Hikari", and "Kodama". However, the "Nozomi" does not stop at Mishima Station. Therefore, to reach Mishima, you will need to use either the "Hikari" (Mishima-stopping services only) or the "Kodama". The fares shown are approximate, and during peak seasons (the period from the end of December to the beginning of January, Golden Week, and Obon), a peak season surcharge may be added to reserved seats and Green Car, which require advance reservations. Discounted fares can be purchased using SmartEX or EX Reservation.

Comparison of Fares for Unreserved Seats (No Reservation Required), Reserved Seats (Reservation Required), and Green Car

Features and Benefits of Unreserved Seats (No Reservation Required)

Unreserved seats, which do not require reservations, are the cheapest seating option, and you don't need to purchase a reserved seat ticket in advance before boarding. Since the travel time between Tokyo and Mishima is short, unreserved seats are usually comfortable enough. However, it can get crowded during peak seasons and weekends, so it's recommended to line up on the platform early. Another advantage of unreserved seats on the "Kodama" is that they are available in multiple cars, making it easier to secure a seat.

Features and Usage Scenarios of Reserved Seats (Reservation Required)

Reserved seats, which require advance booking, allow you to secure your seat number before boarding, so you can travel without worrying about crowds. Reserved seats are especially convenient for groups and families traveling together, as they allow you to secure adjacent seats. Booking online in advance using EX Reservation or SmartEX may qualify you for early bird discounts or other discounted fares. This is also recommended for those who want to guarantee a seat or those with a lot of luggage.

Features and Comfort of Green Car

Green Car is a premium class offering wider seats and enhanced amenities compared to standard class. The seats are arranged in a 2+2 configuration (some are 2+1), and the reclining angle is significantly increased. While the travel time between Tokyo and Mishima is relatively short, taking approximately 40-55 minutes, it's recommended to use Green Car as a starting point for longer trips to areas like Izu and Hakone, or to combine them with your overall travel plan. They are also suitable for business travel and special occasions.

Travel Time from Tokyo to Mishima

Shortest Shinkansen Travel Time Between Tokyo and Mishima

The travel time from Tokyo Station to Mishima Station varies depending on the train you take. The Tokaido Shinkansen operates on this section, and the fastest service, the "Hikari", takes approximately 45 minutes.

Estimated Travel Time and Differences Between Trains

The fastest "Hikari" service takes about 45 minutes, while the "Kodama", which stops at every station, takes about 55 to 60 minutes. Therefore, if you prioritize time when traveling from Tokyo to Mishima, choosing the "Hikari" service, which makes fewer stops, is the most efficient option. Note that if you are using a JR Pass and traveling without additional charges, you will also be using either the "Hikari" or "Kodama" services.

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 bullet train lines in Japan. The travel time between Tokyo and Mishima is significantly shorter compared to JR conventional lines. Furthermore, its high on-time performance and minimal weather-related delays make it an attractive option for planning travel schedules. Just before arriving in Mishima, there's a section where Mount Fuji is clearly visible on the right side of the train (E and D seats), offering a spectacular view on clear days.

Comparison of Travel Time with Air Travel

The distance between Tokyo and Mishima is relatively short, about 120km, so air travel is not common. Even if you were to use a plane, the time required, including access to the nearest airport (Haneda or Narita) and boarding procedures, would be significantly longer than the approximately 40-55 minutes it takes by Shinkansen. For this route, the Shinkansen is the fastest and most convenient mode of transportation.

Time Comparison with Cars and JR Conventional Lines

By car, the journey takes approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours using the Tomei Expressway. However, this section is prone to traffic congestion, so the travel time can be significantly longer during peak seasons and weekends. By JR conventional line, the journey takes approximately 1 hour 40 minutes to 2 hours. The Shinkansen is the best mode of transport between Tokyo and Mishima due to its short travel time and punctuality.

Which Train is the Fastest?

Differences Between "Nozomi", "Hikari", and "Kodama"

On the Tokaido Shinkansen line (Tokyo to Mishima), there are three types of trains: "Nozomi", "Hikari", and "Kodama". Only "Hikari" (some services only) and "Kodama" stop at Mishima Station. The fastest service, "Nozomi", does not stop at Mishima Station and therefore cannot be used for travel between Tokyo and Mishima. Understand the characteristics of each train and choose the one that best suits your travel schedule.

Stations Where Each Train Stops and Their Characteristics

The "Hikari" services have different stops depending on the service, but those that stop at Mishima often stop at Shinagawa, Shin-Yokohama, Odawara, and Mishima, and are characterized by their short travel time. However, the number of "Hikari" services that stop at Mishima is limited to about one every 1-2 hours, so be sure to check the timetable before boarding. The "Kodama" services stop at every station including Shinagawa, Shin-Yokohama, Odawara, Atami, and Mishima, so the travel time is longer than that of the "Hikari", but they are characterized by their frequent service and ease of boarding.

Comparison of Travel Time

Recommended Trains Between Tokyo and Mishima

If minimizing travel time is your top priority, the "Hikari" service that stops at Mishima Station is recommended. You can reach Mishima Station in approximately 40-45 minutes, maximizing your sightseeing time to visit Mishima Taisha Shrine and the Izu area. On the other hand, if the wait time for the "Hikari" is long, choosing the "Kodama" may actually be faster. It's best to check departure and arrival times using transportation information services such as Ekitan to choose the most suitable train.

Points to Consider When Choosing a Train

When choosing a train between Tokyo and Mishima, first check if there is a "Hikari" service that stops at Mishima at your desired departure time. Since "Hikari" services that stop at Mishima are limited to about one every 1-2 hours, depending on the service, a "Kodama" may be an earlier option. If you are using a JR Pass, you can use either "Hikari" or "Kodama" services. Securing a seat in advance using SmartEX or EX Reservation will make your journey smoother on the day of travel.

How to Book Shinkansen Tickets

Basic Methods for Purchasing Shinkansen Tickets

Shinkansen tickets between Tokyo and Mishima can be purchased in three ways: at station ticket offices (Midori-no-madoguchi), ticket machines, or online. In all cases, tickets can be purchased or reserved up to one month before the travel date. During peak season, reserved seats (reservation required) tend to sell out quickly, so it's recommended to book early once your travel dates are finalized. Payment methods include credit cards, transportation IC cards, and cash.

 

 

How to Purchase Tickets at the Station Ticket Office (Midori-no-madoguchi)

Shinkansen tickets can be purchased at the ticket offices (Midori-no-madoguchi) (manned 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 and Shinagawa Station also have English-speaking counters, so even those who are not confident in their Japanese can use the service with ease. Since the counters can get crowded at certain times, it is recommended to visit with plenty of time to spare.

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 Websites)

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 without needing a physical ticket, by linking it to your transportation IC card (such as Suica). EX Reservation offers greater discounts than SmartEX and is especially recommended for frequent Shinkansen users. For those visiting Japan from overseas, the English version of SmartEX and travel booking websites (such as Klook and Railpass) are also available.

 

 

Points to Note When Making a Reservation

When booking a train between Tokyo and Mishima, be sure to select either the "Hikari" or "Kodama" service, which stop at Mishima Station, rather than the "Nozomi". Since some "Hikari" services do not stop at Mishima Station, it is important to check the stopping stations on the booking screen. During peak season (the period from the end of December to the beginning of January, Golden Week, and Obon), reserved seats (reservation required) tend to sell out quickly, so we recommend booking as soon as your travel plans are finalized. If booking through SmartEX or EX Reservation, you will need to register as a member beforehand.

Can the JR Pass Be Used Between Tokyo and Mishima?

Overview of the JR Pass

The JR Pass is a special ticket for travelers who do not reside in Japan, allowing unlimited travel on JR lines without additional charges. It comes in 7-day, 14-day, and 21-day versions, and during its validity period, it allows unlimited travel on JR Shinkansen, limited express services, and JR conventional lines without additional fees. It's an extremely cost-effective pass for travelers who want to explore 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 Usage Between Tokyo and Mishima

Restrictions on Using the "Nozomi"

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

Usage Conditions for "Hikari" and "Kodama"

If you have a JR Pass, you can ride in the unreserved seats of the "Kodama" without making a reservation. If you are using the "Hikari" service, be sure to check whether it stops at Mishima Station. If you wish to use a reserved seat, you must make a seat reservation at the station ticket office (Midori-no-madoguchi) or a reserved seat ticket vending machine before boarding. Seat reservations can be made without additional charges.

Points to Note When Using the 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 plan includes visiting multiple cities such as Izu, Kyoto, and Osaka, not just Tokyo to Mishima, you'll often get your money's worth out of the JR Pass. Ticket offices can get crowded on the day of travel, so it's a good idea to reserve your seat in advance.

Shinkansen Timetable Between Tokyo and Mishima

Tokyo-Mishima Shinkansen Service Frequency

The Tokaido Shinkansen line between Tokyo and Mishima is served by "Kodama" and some "Hikari" services. "Kodama" services run approximately every 30 minutes even during the day, making them relatively easy to board. However, "Hikari" services that stop at Mishima are limited to about one every 1-2 hours, so it is recommended to check the Shinkansen timetable in advance before departing.

First and Last Train Guidelines

The first services departing from Tokyo Station leave as early as 6:00 AM, and the last service to Mishima Station departs around 9:00-10:00 PM. The final arrival time at Mishima Station is around 11:00 PM. By taking the early morning service, you can enjoy visiting Mishima Taisha Shrine and sightseeing in Izu from the morning. By taking the late-night last service, you can travel to Mishima on the same day even after finishing your business in Tokyo.

How to Read a Shinkansen Timetable

You can check the Shinkansen timetable between Tokyo and Mishima on JR Central's official website or on transportation information services such as Ekitan. When searching, enter your departure station "Tokyo", arrival station "Mishima", travel date, and time to see a list of "Hikari" and "Kodama" service times and fares. Using the SmartEX app is convenient as it allows you to search for times and make reservations all in one place.

Tokyo Station to Mishima Station Shinkansen Timetable (Excerpt/Approximate)

*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 Tokyo-Mishima route is especially crowded on weekends, holidays, and long weekends. During Golden Week, summer vacation, and peak season (the period from the end of December to the beginning of January), when tourists heading to Izu, Hakone, and Atami are concentrated, reserved seats (reservation required) tend to sell out quickly, so it is recommended to book in advance. If you plan to use unreserved seats (no reservation required), it is recommended to line up on the platform 15 to 30 minutes before departure. Booking reserved seats online in advance will allow you to travel comfortably without worrying about crowds on the day of travel.

Summary: Shinkansen from Tokyo to Mishima

The Tokaido Shinkansen is the fastest and most convenient way to travel from Tokyo to Mishima. Fares are approximately ¥4,370 for unreserved seats (no reservation required), ¥5,060 for reserved seats (reservation required), and ¥8,110 for Green Car, making it relatively affordable compared to long-distance routes. The shortest travel time is approximately 40-45 minutes on the "Hikari" service (which stops at Mishima) and 45-55 minutes on the "Kodama", meaning you can arrive in under an hour from Tokyo. This significantly reduces travel time compared to cars or JR conventional lines, making it ideal for day trips. An important point to note is that the "Nozomi" does not stop at Mishima Station, so you must choose either the "Kodama" or the "Hikari" service (which stops at Mishima). Note that some "Hikari" services do not stop at Mishima Station, so be sure to check the stopping stations before booking and boarding. Those with a JR Pass can use both the "Hikari" and "Kodama" Shinkansen services. Tickets can be purchased at station ticket offices (Midori-no-madoguchi), reserved seat ticket machines, or online (SmartEX, EX Reservation, etc.). Mishima is an attractive destination, boasting nature nurtured by the groundwater of Mt. Fuji and serving as a gateway to Izu and Hakone tourism. Choose the train that best suits your travel plans and enjoy a comfortable Shinkansen journey between Tokyo and Mishima.

Ekitan Travel Media Editorial Department

The Ekitan Travel Media editorial team provides information on transportation in Japan, including Shinkansen, 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.