What is the difference between Nozomi, Hikari and Kodama trains?

Learn how the three Tokaido Shinkansen train types differ in stops, speed and Japan Rail Pass rules, so you can pick the right one for your trip.

Published October 20, 2026 at 6:30 PM JST | By Tokyo Paul

Quick answer: Nozomi, Hikari and Kodama are the three service levels on the Tokaido Shinkansen. Nozomi is the fastest and stops only at major stations, Hikari makes more stops, and Kodama stops at every station. All three use the same tracks, but a Japan Rail Pass does not cover Nozomi without a separate ticket. Check current timetables for exact stops.

Three service levels on one line

The Tokaido Shinkansen runs between Tokyo and Shin-Osaka, with 17 stations in total. Instead of running one stopping pattern, it runs three: Nozomi, Hikari and Kodama. They share the same tracks and the same kind of high-speed trains, so the difference is not the vehicle. It is how many stations the train serves along the way, and that decides how long the ride takes.

According to Wikipedia, Nozomi is the fastest and most frequent service on the line. Hikari is a limited-stop service, and Kodama is the all-stations service. JR Central uses color to help passengers spot them on departure boards: Nozomi is yellow, Hikari is red and Kodama is blue. Knowing the color helps when you read the departure display.

Stopping patterns and travel time

Nozomi stops only at Tokyo, Shinagawa, Shin-Yokohama, Nagoya, Kyoto and Shin-Osaka, according to Wikipedia. Hikari also calls at the major stations and adds varying combinations of other stops, depending on the train. Kodama stops at all 17 stations, including small ones such as Shin-Fuji, Kakegawa and Mikawa-Anjo, which are mainly served by Kodama.

This matters if your destination is not on the Nozomi list. Travelers going to a mid-sized city stop between Tokyo and Nagoya may find that only some Hikari trains call there, and a few small stations are reached only by Kodama. Check the timetable for the exact stopping pattern of the train you plan to take, because patterns differ between trains.

The fastest Tokyo to Shin-Osaka trip, according to Wikipedia, takes 2 hours 21 minutes, and this is by Nozomi. A Kodama running the full line takes about four hours, partly because faster trains overtake it at intermediate stations. At the line's opening in 1964, Hikari took 4 hours and Kodama 5. For Tokyo to Kyoto, JR Central describes the trip as about 130 minutes, which reflects the fastest trains. As a rule of thumb, expect the full Tokyo to Shin-Osaka run to take roughly two and a quarter to two and a half hours on Nozomi, somewhat under three hours on the fastest Hikari trains and about four hours on Kodama. Always check the specific train.

Japan Rail Pass and ticket rules

Japan Rail Pass eligibility is the most important practical difference. The official pass site states that Nozomi and Mizuho trains are not covered by the pass, but pass holders can buy an extra ticket before boarding. It lists 4,960 yen (tax included) for Tokyo to Kyoto or Shin-Osaka, with a valid pass required. Hikari and Kodama are covered under the pass terms.

The extra ticket is bought for each Nozomi or Mizuho trip, from reserved-seat machines, ticket offices or some travel agencies. It is valid only for the section, direction and route printed on it, and seats are limited. Pass terms and prices change, so confirm them on the official pass site before you buy.

Seats and reservations

Reserved seats are guaranteed on all three train types, and non-reserved seats are first-come, first-served, according to JR Central. JR Central lists non-reserved cars as cars 1 and 2 on Nozomi, cars 1 to 5 on Hikari, and cars 1 to 6 and 13 to 16 on Kodama, though these may change. Check the board or your ticket for the right car.

During major peak periods, all seats on Nozomi are reserved, and non-reserved ticket holders may stand in the passageway of some cars if they can board. Boarding is not guaranteed if the train is crowded. If you miss your reserved train, the rule for later trains depends on your ticket, so ask station staff.

Pass class also limits the options. According to the official pass site, holders of a Green car pass can buy Green car, reserved standard and non-reserved standard tickets for Nozomi, while holders of a standard pass can buy reserved and non-reserved standard tickets but not Green car. Because seats are limited, the extra ticket can sell out even when some seats look open, so buy it early.

Who each train suits

Nozomi suits most travelers, especially those with a fixed schedule, those going Tokyo to Kyoto or Osaka, and anyone who does not use a rail pass. Hikari suits pass holders who want the quickest covered train, and travelers heading to a station that Nozomi skips. Kodama suits those going to small stations since it is used mostly for local travel along the line.

Families with young children, older travelers and those with large bags may value the frequency and the reserved seating of Nozomi. Bags that exceed standard size need a reservation for the designated space, according to JR Central. Check the current rules before traveling.

Ticket mix-ups between train types

A common mistake is boarding a Nozomi with a Japan Rail Pass without the extra ticket. This is not allowed, and boarding without the right ticket can lead to extra charges. Another is assuming that Hikari and Kodama are different trains. They use the same equipment as Nozomi, so comfort is similar.

Some travelers also think the faster train is always the best choice. If your destination is a smaller stop, a Kodama might be the only direct option, and changing from Nozomi to Kodama at a bigger station may not save time. Do not assume that trains run in the same pattern all day either. Patterns can differ by time of day and season.

Pass holders should also remember that the extra ticket cannot be reused: if you get off before the printed destination, the ticket becomes invalid for the rest of the trip. Buy it for the section you actually plan to ride.

Choosing a train for your route

Check your destination station first, then look at the timetable to see which train types stop there. For Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka trips, Nozomi is usually the best choice unless you use a rail pass, in which case Hikari is a good alternative. Book reserved seats ahead during busy seasons.

Timetables change, so look at the JR Central page for current information. This guide shares general information; rules change, so confirm details with the official agency or provider before you act. If you have questions about your ticket, ask staff at a JR ticket office.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can travelers with a Japan Rail Pass ride the Hikari?

Yes. Hikari and Kodama are covered under the pass terms, but Nozomi is not. Reservation rules for pass holders are on the official pass site. Hikari is the fastest option covered, so it is the usual choice for pass holders on this route.

Is there a difference in comfort between the three trains?

Not in a big way. All three types use similar high-speed trains, and the main difference is how many stops each makes. Some newer trains have more power outlets than others, and JR Central says every Green Class seat has one.

How can travelers tell which train they are boarding?

Look at the departure board, which shows the train name, time and platform, and at the color used for each type. JR Central's visitor guide shows Nozomi in yellow, Hikari in red and Kodama in blue. Your ticket also shows the train name and car number.

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More guides from Tokyo Paul: How long does the Shinkansen take from Tokyo to Kyoto?, Can you use the Japan Rail Pass on the Nozomi and Mizuho trains? and The Tokaido: Edo's Main Road and Its 53 Post Stations.