What side of train to sit on from Osaka to Tokyo?

Choosing Your View: The Best Side of the Shinkansen for Osaka-Tokyo Travel

The Shinkansen bullet train journey between Osaka and Tokyo is a breathtaking experience, offering stunning views of Japan’s varied landscape. But which side of the train should you choose to maximize your visual feast? The answer depends on your travel direction.

For travellers embarking on the Osaka to Tokyo route, securing a seat on the right-hand side is key to unlocking the most spectacular mountain panoramas. As the train speeds along, the majestic Japanese Alps will unfold before you, offering a constantly changing backdrop of snow-capped peaks, verdant valleys, and charming rural towns nestled amongst the hills. This side provides the uninterrupted, iconic view most travelers seek.

Conversely, if your journey originates in Tokyo and heads towards Osaka, the left-hand side becomes your window to scenic wonder. While you’ll still see mountains, the perspective shifts, revealing a different array of landscapes. You’ll catch glimpses of the coastline in certain sections, offering a contrasting visual experience to the primarily mountainous views enjoyed on the Osaka-Tokyo leg.

It’s important to note that this advice is a general guideline. The precise views will vary slightly depending on the specific Shinkansen line taken and the time of year (weather conditions can impact visibility). However, by selecting your seat strategically based on your travel direction, you significantly increase your chances of experiencing the most awe-inspiring views during your Shinkansen journey.

So, before you book your tickets, remember this simple rule: Right for the mountains (Osaka to Tokyo), left for a varied perspective (Tokyo to Osaka). Plan your seat selection accordingly and prepare to be mesmerized by the incredible beauty of the Japanese landscape unfolding before your eyes.