What is the slowest train on the Shinkansen?

Delving into the Slower Side of Shinkansen: The Kodama Service

The Shinkansen, Japan’s iconic high-speed rail network, is renowned for its efficiency and speed. However, even within this celebrated system, there exists a slower option: the Kodama service.

Unique to the Tokaido Line, the Kodama service serves as a local train, making stops at each station along its route. This comprehensive coverage comes at a cost of time, significantly extending the journey duration compared to other Shinkansen options.

From Tokyo Station, the Kodama service embarks on a journey to Shin-Osaka Station, a distance of approximately 515 kilometers (320 miles). Unlike its faster counterparts, which bypass numerous stops, the Kodama halts at every station, ensuring accessibility to towns and cities along the way.

This comprehensive coverage results in a travel time of roughly four hours between Tokyo and Shin-Osaka. While this may seem leisurely compared to other Shinkansen services, it remains an efficient and reliable mode of transportation.

The Kodama service operates on a regular schedule, with two trains departing in each direction every hour. This frequent availability ensures that travelers have ample opportunities to connect with their desired destinations.

Whether it’s for sightseeing, business travel, or simply experiencing the slower pace of Japanese rail travel, the Kodama service offers a unique and affordable alternative within the Shinkansen network.