Skip the Shinkansen: The Best Way from Osaka to Nagoya is Kintetsu’s “Hinotori”

2026.05.22

The Kintetsu Limited Express "HINOTORI " is a limited express train that offers an unprecedented level of relaxation. Let me introduce the Kintetsu Limited Express " HINOTORI ," a comfortable way to travel between Osaka and Nagoya !

• Table of Contents
• About Kintetsu Limited Express "HINOTORI"
• Regarding the seating on the "HINOTORI" train
• Large luggage lockers available without reservation! Comfortable onboard facilities on the "HINOTORI" train.
• Regarding fees and booking methods

About Kintetsu Limited Express "HINOTORI"

The "HINOTORI" is a Kintetsu limited express train that connects Osaka Namba and Nagoya in about two hours. Based on the concept of "upgraded relaxation," it is an attractive train that offers comfortable seats at a reasonable price compared to the Shinkansen, as well as comfortable facilities not found on the Shinkansen, such as a cafe and free lockers.

View the "HINOTORI" introduction page.

Regarding the seating on the "HINOTORI" train

The HINOTORI train offers two seating classes: "Premium Seats" and "Regular Seats." Both classes feature back-shell style seats that recline comfortably. All seats have power outlets and Wi-Fi, allowing passengers to use their smartphones and laptops, among other features designed to make travel time more comfortable. Let's take a look at each class.

● "HINOTORI" Premium Seats

The first and last cars are premium cars (with premium seating). All seats are arranged in a 3-row configuration, providing ample space. The floor is higher than usual, offering excellent views. The driver's cab is also glass-enclosed. The view from the front car is unlike anything you'll experience elsewhere. The leather seats have a generous 130 cm of legroom and are equipped with electric reclining functions, creating a more relaxing space.

It's even more comfortable than the Green Car on the Shinkansen.

From the very front and very back of the train, you can enjoy the driver's cab and the panoramic views to the front and rear. This sense of openness and the scenery cannot be experienced on Shinkansen or other trains.

● "HINOTORI" Regular Seat

The seats are equivalent to those in standard class, but the legroom is 116 cm, which is as spacious as a Green Car seat on the Shinkansen bullet train, providing ample legroom. Another great feature is that all seats are back-shell type, allowing you to recline without worrying about disturbing the person behind you.

Large luggage lockers available without reservation! Comfortable onboard facilities on the "HINOTORI" train.

The "HINOTORI" train has multiple free lockers where you can safely store large luggage. In addition to key-operated lockers, there are also IC card-operated lockers that use your transportation IC card as the key, so you can store your luggage with peace of mind. While luggage space on Shinkansen trains requires advance reservations, on the "HINOTORI" you can use it without a reservation.

One of the great things about this vehicle is that you can connect to the free Wi-Fi and access services like unlimited magazine reading. You can read weekly magazines, travel guides, and business books for free.

For a change of pace, we also have bench spaces available where you can relax outside of your seat.

The cafe sells freshly brewed coffee, tea, and sweets.

Regarding fees and booking methods

To ride the Kintetsu Limited Express "HINOTORI," you need a "basic fare ticket" (paper tickets or IC cards such as ICOCA are acceptable) in addition to a "limited express ticket." Since all seats are reserved, you must select your seat when purchasing your limited express ticket in advance. When using the discounted "Kintetsu Rail Pass" available to foreign visitors to Japan, you only need to purchase a "limited express ticket" to ride the train.

The journey time between Osaka and Nagoya is one hour longer than by Shinkansen, but it offers a comfortable trip at an affordable price. (HINOTORI Regular Seat: ¥4,990, HINOTORI Premium Seat: ¥5,690, Shinkansen Standard Seat: ¥6,480)

"HINOTORI" limited express tickets can be purchased at major Kintetsu stations, and can also be reserved and purchased through Kintetsu's limited express ticket web reservation service. (Tickets can be purchased from 10:30 a.m., one month prior to the date of travel.)

Purchase a Kintetsu Rail Pass! (Limited to tourists from outside Japan)

Click here for Kintetsu Limited Express ticket web reservation service.

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