A Memorable Journey on the Hinotori Japan Express Train from Osaka to Nagoya

Hinotori Front View

We discovered the gem of Hinotori while looking for a way to travel from Osaka to Nagoya to visit a friend. It was our first experience with a premium cabin in an express train and our first trip to Nagoya. It was definitely a memorable journey, and I'd like to share some useful details below if you wish to enjoy this experience too.

General Info

Hinotori is a limited express train operated by Kintetsu Railway, running between Osaka Namba Station and Kintetsu Nagoya Station in Japan. This luxury train provides both standard and premium seating options, emphasizing comfort and spaciousness.

Google Maps Directions from Osaka to Nagoya Station

Travel Time

Average travel time is about 2hr and 10mins from Osaka to Nagoya.

Cost

Basic fares are 2,860 yen. (Purchased Separately Online)

• Standard car: Add 2,130 yen for a grand total of 4,990 yen.

• Premium car: Add 2,830 yen for a total of 5,690 yen.

• Children from 6 to 11 years old: Half off the adult fare.

Vending Machines On Board

Features in the Hinotori

• Backshell Seats

• Lockers for Large Luggage

• Free Wi-Fi

• Multilingual Displays and Announcements

• Vending Machines for Coffee and Souvenirs

• Bench Area

• Multipurpose Restroom

• Outlets

  

  Inside View of Premium Cabin

Premium Seats

• Leather Seats

• Electric Reclining Function

• Leg Rest

• High Deck

• Large Glass Windows

Hinotori Coffee & Ekiben

Fun Tip: Pick up a Hinotori "ekiben", a themed on the go lunch box, to enjoy on your journey.

Inside the Hinotori Ekiben

Booking Steps

We purchased our tickets online, on the Kintetsu Railways website for a ticketless service. Here a breakdown below.

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*****How to Book Online****

1. Click Kintetsu Railway Reservation for Limited Express

2. Read and Click on Click Here to buy a Limited Express Ticket

3. Click on Start Purchase

4. Choose Date, Time, Departure and Arrival Station

   • Choose Osaka-Namba & Kintetsu-Nagoya Station

   • Choose the Right Hours - Schedule found on website

5. Choose Ltd. Exp. HINOTORI arrow and click select

6. Select

   • Number of Passengers

   • Seat Type: Standard or Premium

   • Seat Location: None Specified or Select from Seat Map

7. Limited Express Ticket Information will be displayed

   • Please note Total Amount is only for Limited Express Charge and Extra fee for the Premium Car

   • Base Fare is NOT Included - I will explain below

8. Fill in Passenger Information

9. Fill in Credit Card Information

10. Agree to Terms & Click Next

11. Read Attention

12. Click Checked the above "ATTENTION"

    • Purchased is NOT Completed yet

13. Check Information Entered & Click Confirm to Purchase

14. Purchase is Complete and Email Confirmation will be sent

    • Email will have a reservation and ticket number

    • Board Date, Time, and Seat Number will be stated

    • Total Amount Paid is included

Email Confirmation

Your email will state that you need the following things to board:

• The Credit Card you used for payment

• Your E-Ticket on your smartphone or printed

• A Basic Fare Ticket - This ticket must be purchase at a station and is not included in your fare purchased online.

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You may also purchase tickets at a Limited Express ticket counter with a Limited Express ticket at most major stations. Just be aware that Premium Seats are reserved fairly quickly and availability is not guaranteed.

View Outside Window of our Premium Seat

Thoughts/Conclusion

The Hinotori Limited Express Train was a treat and a truly pleasing ride that I would definitely do again. And the 900 yen upgrade to the Premium cabin was absolutely worth it for the views and comfort!