Shinkansen fares and ticket reservation methods from Tokyo to Morioka

Overview of Travel Methods from Tokyo to Morioka

You can travel from Tokyo to Morioka using the Tohoku Shinkansen. This article explains the Shinkansen fares, Travel Time from departure to arrival, and how to book tickets. We've also compiled useful information for your trip to Japan, such as the JR Pass usage rules and the types of trains you can use.

Basic Information about Traveling from Tokyo to Morioka

• Fastest train: "Hayabusa" (approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes)
• The fare for reserved seats (seats that require advance reservation of a seat number) is approximately 14,650 yen.
• Available trains: "Hayabusa" and "Yamabiko"
• JR Pass: Please refer to "5. Can the JR Pass be used between Tokyo and Morioka?" below.

Morioka's Appeal as a Tourist Destination

Morioka is the capital of Iwate Prefecture and a city where beautiful nature and history coexist, with landmarks such as Morioka Castle ruins, Ishiwari-zakura cherry tree, and the banks of the Nakatsu River. It is famous for its "Three Great Noodles of Morioka"—Morioka Reimen (cold noodles), Wanko Soba (small bowls of soba noodles), and Jajamen (noodles with garlic and pepper). It is a popular tourist hub in Tohoku and is about a 2-hour and 10-minute Travel Time from Tokyo.

Shinkansen Fare from Tokyo to Morioka

Overall View of Shinkansen Fares from Tokyo to Morioka

The Shinkansen fare from Tokyo Station to Morioka Station varies depending on the seat class you choose. On the Tohoku Shinkansen, you can use the "Hayabusa" and "Yamabiko" trains. All seats on the "Hayabusa" are reserved. The fares are approximate, and high-season surcharges may be added during high season (the period from the end of December to the beginning of January, Golden Week, and Obon).

Comparison of Fares for Unreserved Seats (Seats that Do Not Require Advance Reservation), Reserved Seats, and Green Car.

Features and Benefits of Unreserved Seats (Seats that Do Not Require Advance Reservation)

The Tohoku Shinkansen's "Hayabusa" trains have all reserved seats; there are no unreserved seats (seats that do not require advance reservation). Advance reservation of a seat number is absolutely necessary to board. Some "Yamabiko" trains have unreserved seats (seats that do not require advance reservation). These tend to sell out quickly during high season and on weekends, so it is recommended to make reservations as soon as your travel plans are finalized.

Features and Usage Scenarios of Reserved Seats (Seats that Require Advance Reservation of a Seat Number)

Reserved seats (seats that require advance reservation of a seat number) 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 you can secure adjacent seats. If you book online in advance using EX Reservation or SmartEX, you may be eligible for early bird discounts or other discounted fares.

Features and Comfort of Green Car

Green Car is a premium class offering more spacious 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. They are recommended for those who want a more comfortable journey between Tokyo and Morioka, as well as for business travelers and special trips.

Travel Time from Tokyo to Morioka

Shortest Shinkansen Travel Time between Tokyo and Morioka

The Travel Time from Tokyo Station to Morioka Station varies depending on the train you take. This section is served by the Tohoku Shinkansen "Hayabusa" train. The "Hayabusa" is all-reserved seating and takes approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes at its shortest. If you are using a JR Pass, a separate reserved seat ticket is required (no additional charge for the reservation itself). The fastest train takes approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes.

Estimated Travel Time and Differences Between Trains

If you take the "Hayabusa" train, the journey from Tokyo to Morioka takes approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes. The "Hayabusa" is the fastest train on the Tohoku Shinkansen line. The "Yamabiko" train makes many stops along the way and takes approximately 2 hours and 30 to 50 minutes. If you prioritize the shortest Travel Time, please take the "Hayabusa".

The Speed and Features of the Tohoku Shinkansen

The Tohoku Shinkansen operates at a maximum speed of 320 km/h, and one of its attractions is its high on-time performance rate. This line is one of the busiest Shinkansen lines in Japan, catering to both business and leisure travelers.

Comparison of Travel Time with Air Travel

When traveling between Tokyo and Morioka by plane, you need to factor in time for airport access, check-in, security checks, boarding procedures, and travel from the arrival airport to Morioka city center, in addition to the flight time. With the Shinkansen, you can travel directly from Tokyo Station to Morioka Station without transfers, so in terms of total Travel Time, the Shinkansen is often the more advantageous option.

Time Comparison with Cars and JR Conventional Lines

Traveling by car is prone to traffic congestion on expressways, and Travel Times can be significantly longer, especially during high season and long holidays. JR conventional lines (JR lines other than Shinkansen) take two to three times longer in Travel Time than the Shinkansen. In terms of punctuality, Travel Time, and comfort, the Shinkansen is the best mode of transport between Tokyo and Morioka.

Which Train is Fastest?

Types of Trains Available

Between Tokyo and Morioka, you can use the "Hayabusa" and "Yamabiko" trains. The fastest is the "Hayabusa", which takes about 2 hours and 10 minutes. JR Pass holders can use all trains. All seats on the "Hayabusa" are reserved, so you need to reserve a seat before boarding (there is no additional charge for seat reservations).

Stations Where Each Train Stops and Their Characteristics

The fastest trains make fewer stops and have shorter Travel Times, while trains that stop at all stations run more frequently and are easier to board. Reserved seats tend to sell out quickly during high season and on weekends, so advance booking is recommended.

Comparison of Travel Time from Departure to Arrival

Recommended Trains from Tokyo to Morioka

If your top priority is the shortest Travel Time, the "Hayabusa" train is recommended. JR Pass holders can use all trains. Since all seats on the "Hayabusa" are reserved, please make a seat reservation in advance (there is no additional charge for seat reservations).

Points to Consider When Choosing a Train

When choosing a train between Tokyo and Morioka, first check if there are any trains that stop in Morioka at your desired departure time. Securing your seat in advance using services like SmartEX, EX Reservation (Tokaido/Sanyo Shinkansen), or Ekinet (Tohoku/Hokuriku Shinkansen) will make your journey smoother.

How to Book Shinkansen Tickets

Basic Methods for Purchasing Shinkansen Tickets

Shinkansen tickets between Tokyo and Morioka 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 high season, reserved seats (seats that require advance reservation of a seat number) tend to sell out quickly, so it's recommended to book early once your travel dates are decided. 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 station ticket offices (Midori-no-madoguchi), which are 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. Many major stations, such as Tokyo Station and Morioka 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 Reservation (Ekinet (an online reservation service provided by JR East))

For online reservations, Ekitan (JR East's online reservation service) is convenient. Ekitan offers discount tickets such as "Osaki Tokudane" and "Tokudane," which can be up to 50% off regular fares. Using the "Shinkansen e-ticket" linked to Suica allows you to pass through ticket gates with your IC card without needing a physical ticket. Visitors from overseas can also utilize the official website and travel booking sites (such as Klook and Railpass), which are available in English.

Points to Note When Making a Reservation

When booking a Shinkansen ticket between Tokyo and Morioka, be sure to confirm that the train stops at Morioka Station. During high season (the period from the end of December to the beginning of January, Golden Week, and Obon), reserved seats (seats that require advance reservation of a seat number) tend to sell out quickly, so we recommend booking as soon as your travel plans are finalized.

Can I use the JR Pass between Tokyo and Morioka?

Overview of 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 trains, and JR conventional lines (JR lines other than Shinkansen) without additional fees. It can be purchased at travel agencies outside of Japan or at select ticket offices within Japan. A passport is required for use.

Regarding Use Between Tokyo and Morioka

Using JR Pass on the Tohoku Shinkansen

All Tohoku Shinkansen trains, including the "Hayabusa" and "Yamabiko," can be used with the JR Pass. Since all seats on the "Hayabusa" are reserved, please reserve your seat at the station ticket office (Midori-no-madoguchi) or a reserved seat ticket vending machine before boarding. There is no additional charge for seat reservations.

Conditions for Using Trains with JR Pass

With a JR Pass, you can board trains with unreserved seats (seats that do not require advance reservation). If you wish to use a reserved seat (a seat that requires advance reservation of a seat number), you must reserve your seat at the station ticket office (Midori-no-madoguchi) or a reserved seat ticket vending machine before boarding. There is no additional charge for seat reservations.

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 involve visiting multiple cities, not just Tokyo to Morioka, you'll often get your money's worth from 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.

Tokyo to Morioka Shinkansen Timetable

Tokyo-Morioka Shinkansen Operating Frequency

The Shinkansen service between Tokyo and Morioka operates frequently, even during the daytime. The "Hayabusa" and "Yamabiko" trains are in service, and it's recommended to check the timetable in advance before departing. Extra trains may be added during high season and tourist seasons.

First and Last Train Guidelines

The first trains departing from Tokyo Station leave as early as 6:00 AM, while the last trains to Morioka Station depart between 9:00 PM and 11:00 PM. Taking the early morning train allows you to enjoy sightseeing in Morioka from the morning. Using the late-night last train allows you to travel to Morioka 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 Morioka on the JR official website or on transportation information services such as Ekitan. When searching, enter your departure station "Tokyo", arrival station "Morioka", travel date, and time to see a list of train times and fares.

Tokyo Station to Morioka 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-Morioka route is particularly crowded during high season (the period from the end of December to the beginning of January, Golden Week, and Obon) and on weekends. If you reserve your reserved seat (a seat that requires advance reservation of a seat number) online in advance, you can travel comfortably without worrying about the crowds on the day of travel.

Summary: Shinkansen from Tokyo to Morioka

The Tohoku Shinkansen is the fastest and most convenient way to travel from Tokyo to Morioka. The fare for a reserved seat (a seat that requires advance reservation of a seat number) is approximately 14,650 yen, and for a Green Car it's approximately 19,430 yen. The fastest train, the "Hayabusa," takes about 2 hours and 10 minutes in Travel Time. JR Pass holders can use all trains. Since all seats on the "Hayabusa" are reserved, seat reservations are required before boarding (no additional charge). Tickets can be purchased or reserved at station ticket offices (Midori-no-madoguchi), reserved seat ticket machines, or online (such as Ekitan).

Ekitan Travel Media Editorial Department

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