Flights
Flying is
the fastest and often the most expensive way to travel from Tokyo to Osaka, but with a bit of luck you can score very good deals for as little as
USD 48.93.
Things to remember: Note that some of the airlines may have restrictions on checked luggage weight or require paying extra for check-in, choosing seats or transportation of oversized luggage.
If opting for a flight, calculate the time you will spend getting to and from the airports as well as the waiting time before your flight, getting through immigration in case of an international flight and recovering your checked luggage.
In certain cases all these procedures can add no less than 5 hours to your total travel time.
Airlines flying between Tokyo and Osaka
All Nippon Airways, All Nippon Airways, All Nippon Airways, Japan Airlines, Japan Airlines, Japan Airlines, Jetstar Japan, Jetstar Japan, Jetstar Japan, Peach Aviation, Peach Aviation, Star Flyer, Star Flyer, Star Flyer
Bus
Travelling from Tokyo to Osaka overland will inevitably take longer but in many cases it is
the cheapest option if you opt for a bus.
Things to remember: For a more comfortable ride opt for a higher-class bus wherever possible. These buses usually have soft reclining seats and are equipped with air-conditioning and on-board toilets.
They often include water, snacks or a light lunch into your ticket price and make bathroom stops en-route.
Companies operating bus routes between Tokyo and Osaka
Aogaki Bus MA3, Heisei Community Bus HC, Heisei Enterprise HE0 (株式会社平成エンタープライズ), Kintetsu Bus ZKN12, Osaka Bus ZOS4 (大阪バス ZOS4), Owl Bus, Sakura Kanko Bus CJ (さくら観光バス株式会社), Shinki Bus LM (神姫観光株式会社), Sugisaki Kanko Bus SS2, Sunshine Express SN6, Yamaichi Service AF5 (山一サービス)
Taxi
Some travellers consider taxi to be
the most convenient form of overland transport thanks to flexible departure times, a possibility to choose the size of the car you need, and a hassle-free door-to-door service.
Things to remember: If you are planning to make detours during your trip, discuss it with your driver or service provider in advance as it may affect the price.
Companies offering charters between Tokyo and Osaka
Daytrip private transfer with English speaking driver
Train
Train is a often a great choice for long-haul travel especially if you opt for a night sleeper train with berths which will allow you to
sleep all your journey through. To make the most of your train journey, choose the class of your ticket wisely.
Note that there are air-conditioned and fan-only carriages; private compartments for 2 or 4; hard and soft seats.
Though the upper class you get the smoother is your journey, often second class air-conditioned or fan-only sleepers are a good money saving alternative.
