Shinkansen fares and ticket reservation methods from Tokyo to Odawara
Overview of how to travel from Tokyo to Odawara
From Tokyo to Odawara, it takes a minimum of approximately 27 minutes by Tokaido Shinkansen. Odawara is a historic castle town and is also a very convenient gateway to Hakone. This article explains Shinkansen fares, travel time, and how to book tickets. We have also compiled useful information for visitors to Japan, such as the rules for using the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) and the types of trains that can be used.
Basic information about traveling from Tokyo to Odawara
- Shortest travel time: Approximately 27 minutes (when using Hikari service)
- Unreserved seat fare: Approximately 3,370 yen
- Reserved seat fare: Approximately 4,270 yen
- Available trains: Hikari, Kodama
- Note: The Nozomi train does not stop at Odawara Station.
- JR Pass: Available
The appeal of Odawara as a tourist destination
Odawara is a castle town rich in history and nature, located in the southwestern part of Kanagawa Prefecture. Odawara Castle, which flourished as the base of the Hojo clan during the Sengoku period, is the city's top tourist attraction and attracts many visitors. Odawara is also known as a gateway to Hakone tourism, and is an ideal base for accessing popular resorts such as Hakone Yumoto, Gora, and Lake Ashi. With easy access by Shinkansen, it is a destination that can be easily enjoyed even on a day trip from Tokyo.
Table of Contents
Shinkansen fare from Tokyo to Odawara
Overall view of Shinkansen fares from Tokyo to Odawara
The Shinkansen fare from Tokyo Station to Odawara Station varies depending on the seat class and train type you choose. Because the distance between Tokyo and Odawara is relatively short, the fare is more reasonable compared to longer distances such as Tokyo to Osaka. Note that the Nozomi train does not stop at Odawara Station, so you will need to use either the Hikari or Kodama train. During peak seasons, a peak season surcharge may be added to reserved seats and Green Car fares.
Comparison of prices for unreserved seats, reserved seats, and Green Car seats.
| Seat | Fare (Estimate) | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Unreserved seat | Approximately 3,370 yen | No assigned seat numbers; you can sit wherever there is an empty seat. |
| Reserved seat (Ordinary Car) | Approximately 4,270 yen | A seat number is assigned, guaranteeing you a seat. |
| Green Car | Approximately 6,350 yen | Spacious seating and high-quality service, perfect for those who want to travel comfortably. |
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 journey between Tokyo and Odawara is short, so unreserved seats are usually comfortable enough. However, they can fill up during peak seasons and morning/evening rush hours, so it's recommended to get to the platform early. Another advantage of unreserved seats on the Kodama is that they are available in all cars, making it easier to secure a seat.
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 for groups and families traveling together, as you can secure adjacent seats. If you make a reservation online in advance using EX Reservation or Smart EX, you may be eligible for early bird discounts or other discounted fares. It is also recommended for those who want to be guaranteed a seat or those with a lot of luggage.
Features and comfort of Green Cars
Green Cars are a premium class offering more spacious seats and enhanced amenities compared to Ordinary Car. The seats are arranged in a 2+2 configuration (some are 2+1), and the reclining angle is significantly increased. Because the journey between Tokyo and Odawara is relatively short, to fully appreciate the benefits of Green Cars, it's recommended to combine them with a longer trip, such as a round trip to Hakone. They are also suitable for business travel and special occasions.
Travel time from Tokyo to Odawara
Shortest Shinkansen journey from Tokyo to Odawara
The shortest travel time from Tokyo Station to Odawara Station using the Shinkansen Hikari is approximately 27 minutes. The Hikari, which stops at Odawara Station, has fewer stops, resulting in a very speedy journey. If you use the Kodama, there are more stops along the way, so the journey time is approximately 35-40 minutes. In either case, you can reach Odawara from Tokyo in under an hour.
Average travel time and difference between trains
The average travel time for the Hikari is approximately 27-35 minutes, with slight variations depending on the service. The Kodama does not stop at every station but makes stops at several intermediate stations, so the travel time is approximately 35-45 minutes. Both trains connect Tokyo and Odawara in a short time, but if time is your top priority, you should choose the Hikari. However, there are more Kodama services running, so depending on the time of day, the Kodama may be more convenient.
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 bullet train lines in Japan. Although the section between Tokyo and Odawara is a short distance within Kanagawa Prefecture, this high speed significantly reduces travel time compared to conventional lines. In addition, its extremely high on-time performance rate and infrequent delays due to weather make it an attractive option for planning travel schedules.
Comparison of travel time with air travel
The distance between Tokyo and Odawara is relatively short, about 83km, 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 27 minutes it takes by Shinkansen. For this route, the Shinkansen is the fastest and most convenient mode of transportation.
Time comparison with cars and conventional trains
By car, the journey takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours using the Tomei Expressway. However, this section is prone to traffic congestion, making it difficult to predict the travel time. By JR Tokaido Line, the journey takes approximately 1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes. Using the Odakyu Romancecar, it takes about 70 minutes from Shinjuku. The Shinkansen is the best mode of transport between Tokyo and Odawara due to its short travel time and punctuality.
Which train is the fastest?
The difference between Nozomi, Hikari, and Kodama
On the Tokaido Shinkansen (Tokyo to Odawara), only two types of trains stop at Odawara Station: the Hikari and the Kodama. The fastest train, the Nozomi, does not stop at Odawara Station and therefore cannot be used for travel between Tokyo and Odawara. The Hikari has fewer stops and a shorter travel time, while the Kodama has more frequent service and is easier to board. It is important to choose the train that best suits your purpose.
Stations and characteristics of each train
The Hikari has different stops depending on the service, but between Tokyo and Odawara, it often only stops at Shinagawa, resulting in a shorter travel time. The Kodama stops at every station, including Shinagawa, Shin-Yokohama, and Odawara, so the travel time is longer than the Hikari. However, the Kodama runs more frequently, making it easier to accommodate last-minute travel. If you are stopping in Odawara on your way to Shizuoka Prefecture, the Hikari is more convenient.
Comparison of required time
| Train | Main stops (Tokyo to Odawara) | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Nozomi | Unavailable as it does not stop at Odawara Station. | ― |
| Hikari | Tokyo, Shinagawa, Odawara (varies by service) | Approximately 27-35 minutes |
| Kodama | Tokyo, Shinagawa, Shin-Yokohama, Odawara | Approximately 35-45 minutes |
Recommended trains between Tokyo and Odawara
If time is your top priority, the Hikari is recommended. You can reach Odawara in about 27 minutes, maximizing your time for sightseeing in Hakone and exploring the castle town. On the other hand, if the wait time for the Hikari is long due to the timetable, choosing the Kodama may actually allow you to travel 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 Odawara, first check if there is a Hikari that stops at Odawara at your desired departure time. Since Hikari services only run about 1-2 times per hour, a Kodama may be faster depending on the time of day. Also, if you are using a JR Pass, you can use both Hikari and Kodama. Securing your seat in advance using Smart EX 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 Odawara can be purchased in three ways: at station ticket counters, ticket vending machines, or online. In all cases, tickets can be purchased or reserved up to one month before the travel date. During peak seasons, reserved seats may fill up quickly, so it is recommended to book early once your travel dates are finalized. Payment methods include credit cards, transportation IC cards, and cash.
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 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 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 (Smart EX official website)
For online reservations, JR Central's Smart EX and EX Reservation services are convenient. Smart EX 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 Smart EX and is especially recommended for frequent Shinkansen users. Visitors from overseas can also utilize the English-language Smart EX and travel booking websites (such as Klook and Railpass).
Points to note when making a reservation
The journey between Tokyo and Odawara is short, so you can travel comfortably even in unreserved seats. However, during peak seasons (New Year's, Golden Week, and Obon), congestion is expected, so we recommend booking reserved seats in advance. Also, since the Nozomi train does not stop at Odawara Station, be sure to select either the Hikari or Kodama when making your reservation. If you are making a reservation using Smart EX or EX Reservation, you will need to register as a member in advance.
Can the JR Pass be used between Tokyo and Odawara?
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.
Availability between Tokyo and Odawara
| Train | JR Pass Usage | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Nozomi | Unavailable (and does not stop at Odawara) | Not available for boarding between Tokyo and Odawara. |
| Hikari | Available | Both reserved and unreserved seats are available. |
| Kodama | Available | Both reserved and unreserved seats are available. |
Restrictions on the use of Nozomi
The Nozomi cannot be used with the JR Pass, and it does not stop at Odawara Station. Therefore, you cannot use the Nozomi to travel between Tokyo and Odawara. Whether you have a JR Pass or not, please choose the Hikari or Kodama to go to Odawara.
Conditions for using Hikari and Kodama
If you have a JR Pass, you can ride in the unreserved seats on both the Hikari and Kodama without any additional charge. If you wish to use a reserved seat, you will need to reserve a seat at the station's "Midori no Madoguchi" (ticket office) or a ticket vending machine before boarding. There is no additional charge for seat reservations. Since the number of Hikari services that stop at Odawara is limited, it is recommended to make a reservation as soon as you decide which train you want to take.
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 Hakone, Kyoto, and Osaka, in addition to Tokyo and Odawara, you'll often get your money's worth from the JR Pass. Ticket counters can get crowded on the day of travel, so it's a good idea to make a seat reservation by the day before.
Shinkansen timetable between Tokyo and Odawara
Tokyo to Odawara Shinkansen service frequency
The Shinkansen between Tokyo and Odawara operates two trains: the Hikari and the Kodama. The Kodama runs approximately every 30 minutes even during the day, making it a relatively easy train to board. The Hikari services that stop at Odawara are limited to about 1-2 per hour, so it is recommended to check the timetable in advance before departing. Depending on the time of day, you may have to wait more than 30 minutes for the next Hikari.
Guideline for the first and last trains
The first trains departing from Tokyo Station leave as early as 6:00 AM, and the last trains depart around 9:00-10:00 PM. The last trains arrive at Odawara Station around 11:00 PM. By taking the early morning train, you can enjoy sightseeing in Odawara and Hakone from the morning, and by taking the late-night last train, you can travel on the same day even after finishing your business in Tokyo. When planning your trip, it's a good idea to create a schedule with plenty of leeway.
How to read a timetable
You can check the Shinkansen timetable between Tokyo and Odawara on JR Central's official website or on transportation information services such as Ekitan. When searching, enter your departure station "Tokyo", arrival station "Odawara", travel date, and time to see a list of Hikari and Kodama times and fares. Using the Smart EX app is convenient as it allows you to search for times and make reservations all in one place.
Tokyo Station to Odawara Station (excerpt, approximate)
| Departure (Tokyo) | Train | Arrival (Odawara) | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 06:03 | Kodama 641 | 06:46 | Approximately 43 minutes |
| 06:33 | Hikari 491 | 07:00 | Approximately 27 minutes |
| 07:03 | Kodama 643 | 07:46 | Approximately 43 minutes |
| 08:03 | Kodama 645 | 08:46 | Approximately 43 minutes |
| 09:03 | Kodama 647 | 09:46 | Approximately 43 minutes |
| 10:33 | Hikari 495 | 11:00 | Approximately 27 minutes |
| 13:03 | Kodama 655 | 13:46 | Approximately 43 minutes |
| 20:03 | Kodama 671 | 20:46 | Approximately 43 minutes |
*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-Odawara route is especially crowded on weekends, holidays, and long weekends. During Golden Week, summer vacation, and the New Year period, when tourists heading to Hakone and Atami are concentrated, reserved seats may fill up quickly. If you plan to use unreserved seats, it is recommended that you 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 Odawara
The Tokaido Shinkansen is the fastest and most convenient way to travel from Tokyo to Odawara. Fares are approximately 3,370 yen for unreserved seats, 4,270 yen for reserved seats, and 6,350 yen for Green Car seats, making it relatively affordable compared to longer distances. The fastest Hikari takes about 27 minutes, and even the Kodama takes about 35-45 minutes, meaning you arrive in just 30-45 minutes from Tokyo. This significantly reduces travel time compared to cars or conventional trains, making it ideal for day trips. Note that the Nozomi does not stop at Odawara Station, so you must choose either the Hikari or Kodama. Those with a JR Pass can use either the Hikari or Kodama. There are more Kodama services than Hikari services, with only 1-2 Hikari per hour, so it's recommended to check the timetable in advance. Tickets can be purchased at station ticket counters ("Midori no Madoguchi"), ticket vending machines, or online (Smart EX, EX Reservation, etc.). Odawara is an attractive destination where you can enjoy both castle town sightseeing and Hakone sightseeing. Choose the train that best suits your travel plans and enjoy a comfortable Shinkansen journey between Tokyo and Odawara.
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