The Tokyo to Osaka shinkansen is the busiest high speed line in the world. Here is the practical information you need before booking, and why most travellers buy a Japan Rail Pass instead of individual tickets.
A one way ordinary reserved ticket costs around 14,720 yen. Return is around 29,440 yen.
That return alone is already close to the price of a 7 day ordinary Japan Rail Pass, which gives you unlimited shinkansen and local JR trains for a whole week.
City centre to city centre, the bullet train is faster than flying once you factor in airport transfers and check in. There is no baggage drop and you can step on board with five minutes to spare.
If you plan day trips from Osaka to Kyoto, Nara, Himeji or Hiroshima, the Japan Rail Pass is the obvious choice. Order yours from GetJRPass with worldwide shipping and clear instructions in your language.
Quick answers to common questions.
No, but they are connected. A free local JR ride takes three minutes between them, and your JR Pass covers it.
Yes, with a supplementary fee per leg. Otherwise take a Hikari, which is free with the pass and only slightly slower.
Yes, ticket machines at Tokyo Station and Shinagawa accept cards and cash. Lines can be long, so allow 15 minutes if you are not using a JR Pass.
Keep exploring Japan Rail Pass topics relevant to your trip.