The Kintetsu Limited Express "HINOTORI " is a limited express train that offers an unprecedented level of relaxation. Let us introduce the Kintetsu Limited Express " HINOTORI ," a comfortable option for travel between Osaka and Nagoya !
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Kintetsu Railway connects Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Mie, and Aichi, linking a wide range of destinations where travelers can experience Japan’s rich history, beautiful natural landscapes, and distinctive food culture. This content features highlights along the Kintetsu lines, including must‑see sightseeing spots, recommended restaurants and hotels, as well as useful tips to make your journey more comfortable and enjoyable. The cover photo shows Ago Bay in Mie Prefecture. Known as the birthplace of cultured pearls, the bay is famous for its calm waters and scenic islands, and a leisurely cruise is a wonderful way to take in its tranquil beauty.
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Table of Contents
- HINOTORI Limited Express Train between Osaka Namba & Nagoya
- HINOTORI's Seating Options: Premium & Regular
- Large Luggage Lockers Available Without Reservation! Comfortable Onboard Facilities
- Fares & Reservation Methods
HINOTORI Limited Express Train between Osaka Namba & Nagoya
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.
HINOTORI's Seating Options: Premium & Regular
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
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.
Fares & Reservation 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 approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes. While this is one hour longer than the Shinkansen (bullet train), it offers a comfortable ride 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.)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it possible to reserve seats on the HINOTORI on the day of departure?
Yes. You can purchase tickets on the day of travel via the internet, at station ticket counters, and at station vending machines. There are often seats available even on the day of travel, but if you have decided on your travel date and time in advance, we recommend making a reservation as early as possible, starting from the release date (one month before the travel date). In particular, premium seats have a limited number of seats, so we recommend purchasing them in advance if you wish to use them.
Are there any days when the HINOTORI train does not operate?
The HINOTORI does not have any days when it does not operate. Other HINOTORI express trains also operate between Osaka and Nagoya , so if you wish to ride the HINOTORI, please check the timetable online or at the station. (Limited express trains departing Osaka Namba and Kintetsu Nagoya at 00 minutes past the hour (e.g., 9:00, 10:00) are often the HINOTORI.)
Are bento boxes sold on board the HINOTORI train?
No, we don't have them. Please purchase them at the station's ticket counter or elsewhere before boarding.
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