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Train options
- Hikari from Tokyo to Shin Kobe direct, around 3 hours.
- Faster option: Hikari to Shin Osaka, transfer to Sakura or Kodama for one stop to Shin Kobe.
- Nozomi is not included in the standard JR Pass, choose Hikari or Sakura instead.
Route guide
Tokyo to Kobe by shinkansen with the JR Pass
Kobe sits on the Sanyo shinkansen between Osaka and Hiroshima. The JR Pass covers the full route from Tokyo to Shin Kobe on Hikari trains, with Sakura also available between Shin Osaka and Shin Kobe.
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Single ticket price vs JR Pass
A reserved one way Hikari ticket from Tokyo to Shin Kobe is around 15,500 yen. A 7 day JR Pass at 50,000 yen pays for itself if you also plan a return to Tokyo or a continuation to Hiroshima and Hakata.
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From Shin Kobe to central Kobe
- Shin Kobe is a short subway ride from Sannomiya, the main central station.
- Sannomiya is on the JR Kobe line and included in the JR Pass.
- Walk to Kitano in 15 minutes from Shin Kobe.
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Day trip and onward options
- Kobe day trip from Kyoto or Osaka, 30 minutes on Sakura or local trains.
- Continue to Himeji Castle in 15 minutes on Sakura.
- Add Hiroshima the next day on the same Sanyo line.
Frequently asked questions
Quick answers to common questions.
Can I take Nozomi from Tokyo to Kobe with the JR Pass?
No. The standard pass excludes Nozomi. Take Hikari to Shin Kobe or change at Shin Osaka to Sakura.
Is Shin Kobe the same as Kobe?
No. Shin Kobe is the shinkansen station. The traditional centre is around Sannomiya, two minutes by subway.
How long does Tokyo to Kobe take?
About 3 hours on Hikari, or 3 hours 10 minutes with a Shin Osaka transfer.
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