JapanTravel Tips

Transportation and Navigation around Shin-Osaka Station

1. What is the best mode of transportation to get to Shin-Osaka Station?


The best mode of transportation to get to Shin-Osaka Station would be by train, specifically the shinkansen (bullet train). This is the fastest and most convenient way to reach the station. Alternatively, you can also take a local or express train from nearby cities or subway lines within Osaka.

2. How long does it take to walk from Shin-Osaka Station to neighboring areas?


It depends on the specific area and your walking pace, but generally it takes about 5-20 minutes to walk to nearby areas from Shin-Osaka Station. For example:

– To Higashimikuni Station: about 5-10 minutes
– To Juso Station: about 10-15 minutes
– To Umeda/Osaka Station: about 15-20 minutes

3. Are there any bus stops near the station that connect to major tourist spots?


Yes, there are several bus stops near the station that connect to major tourist spots. Some of the popular bus routes include:

– Bus 100: This route connects the station to popular attractions such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Louvre Museum.
– Bus 69: This route connects the station to the Champs-Élysées, Arc de Triomphe and Trocadéro.
– Bus 42: This route connects the station to Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur Basilica.
– Bus 27: This route connects the station to Luxembourg Gardens, Saint-Michel district and Jardin des Plantes.

You can also use a public transportation app or website, such as RATP or Google Maps, to plan your route and find more options for getting around Paris by bus.

4. Is there an airport shuttle service available from Shin-Osaka Station to Kansai International Airport?

Yes, there are several options for airport shuttle services from Shin-Osaka Station to Kansai International Airport.

1. Limousine Bus:
The Kansai Airport Limousine Bus offers direct and frequent shuttle services from Shin-Osaka Station to Kansai International Airport. The one-way journey takes approximately 50-60 minutes and costs around 1,550 yen per adult.

2. Nankai Airport Bus:
The Nankai Airport Bus also offers direct shuttle services from Shin-Osaka Station to Kansai International Airport. The trip takes approximately 75-90 minutes and costs around 770 yen per adult.

3. Shared Door-to-Door Shuttle:
There are various shared door-to-door shuttle companies that offer convenient transfer services from Shin-Osaka Station to Kansai International Airport for a reasonable price. These shuttles can be booked in advance online or through a travel agency.

4. Private Taxi Transfer:
For a more luxurious and private option, you can arrange for a taxi pick-up from Shin-Osaka Station to take you directly to the airport. This option is more expensive but allows for more flexibility in terms of pick-up time and drop-off location.

Overall, there are plenty of transportation options available from Shin-Osaka Station to Kansai International Airport, so you can choose the one that fits your budget and schedule best.

5. Can I purchase train tickets for other cities in Japan at Shin-Osaka Station?


Yes, you can purchase train tickets for other cities in Japan at the ticket counters or vending machines located in Shin-Osaka Station. Some popular destinations that can be reached from Shin-Osaka Station include Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Nagoya. You can also purchase tickets online through the JR West website or through a travel agency.

6. Are taxis readily available at the station for local transportation?


It depends on the specific station and its location. Some busy stations may have a taxi stand or a designated pick-up area for taxis, while others may not. It’s best to check with station staff or consult a map of the station beforehand to see if taxis are available. If not, there may be alternative transportation options such as buses or ride-hailing services.

7. Where can I find luggage storage facilities at or near Shin-Osaka Station?


There are several options for luggage storage at or near Shin-Osaka Station:

1. Coin lockers at Shin-Osaka Station: The station has a large number of coin lockers, located on different floors throughout the station. These lockers can be used for storing luggage for a few hours to a few days.

2. Luggage storage service counters: There are several luggage storage service counters located within Shin-Osaka Station, where you can store your luggage for a fee. Some of these counters also offer delivery services to your hotel or airport.

3. Baggage keeping service at JR West Shinkansen gate: This is another paid luggage storage option available at the JR West Shinkansen gate on the 1st floor of the station.

4. Drop-in baggage service at Osaka Marriott Miyako Hotel: The Osaka Marriott Miyako Hotel, located directly above Shin-Osaka Station, offers drop-in baggage service for non-guests. You can store your luggage here for a fee.

5. Luggage storage facilities at nearby shops and hotels: There are also several shops and hotels near Shin-Osaka Station that offer short-term luggage storage for a fee.

It is recommended to check with the specific locations for their availability, pricing, and operating hours before leaving your bags there.

8. Is there a subway line connecting to the station for easy access within Osaka city?


Yes, there are several subway lines that connect to Osaka Station. These include the Midosuji Line, which connects to popular areas such as Namba and Umeda, and the Tanimachi Line, which goes to Tennoji and Umeda. There is also a JR Loop Line that circles around central Osaka and connects to other train lines. Additionally, there are numerous bus stops near the station for further transportation options.

9. Are there any bicycle rental options near Shin-Osaka Station?


Yes, there are several bicycle rental options near Shin-Osaka Station. Some of the most popular options include:

1. Orix Rent-a-Car: This rental company offers both traditional bicycles and electric bicycles for rent. The nearest branch to Shin-Osaka Station is located about a 3-minute walk away.

2. Kansai Cycle Sports Center: Located about a 5-minute walk from the station, this rental shop offers a wide range of high-quality road bikes, as well as touring and mountain bikes.

3. Niki Cycle Rental: This rental shop is conveniently located right outside the East Exit of Shin-Osaka Station and offers a variety of bicycles for rent.

4. Hubchari Bike Share: This bike sharing service has multiple bike stations around Shin-Osaka Station where you can rent a bicycle using their app.

5. Ekirin Chan Bicycle Rental: This rental shop is located about a 10-minute walk from the station and offers reasonably priced daily rentals for both regular and electric bicycles.

Note: Prices and availability may vary depending on the specific rental location and type of bicycle chosen. It is recommended to check with each option beforehand for more details.

10. Can I use my international driver’s license to rent a car from the station for day trips out of Osaka?


Yes, you can use your international driver’s license to rent a car from the station for day trips out of Osaka. However, you may need to provide additional documents such as your passport and credit card. It is recommended that you check with the rental company beforehand to confirm their requirements.

11. Are there any organized tours that depart from Shin-Osaka Station for nearby attractions such as Kyoto or Nara?

Yes, there are several organized tours that depart from Shin-Osaka Station for nearby attractions such as Kyoto and Nara. Some tour companies offer half-day or full-day tours that depart from the station, taking visitors to popular sights such as Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto or Todai-ji Temple in Nara. These tours often include transportation, entrance fees, and a guide. They can be booked online or at tourist information centers in the station.

12. Is it possible to take a boat tour along the Yodo River from near Shin-Osaka Station?

Yes, it is possible to take a boat tour along the Yodo River from near Shin-Osaka Station. There are several companies that offer boat tours, such as the Osaka City Water Bus and Corporation, which has a dock near Nishinakajima-Minamigata Station on the Midosuji subway line, just a few stops away from Shin-Osaka Station. The tour takes about 80 minutes and offers views of famous landmarks along the river, such as Osaka Castle and Nakanoshima Park. You can also book private boat tours for special occasions or events.

13. Which gate should I use if I want to catch a train heading towards Tokyo?


That would depend on the train’s specific destination and schedule. You can check the departure board at the station or ask a station employee for assistance.

14. Are there any restrooms or public toilets inside Shin-Osaka Station?

Yes, there are restrooms and public toilets available inside Shin-Osaka Station. They can be found near the entrances/exits as well as throughout the station, including on each platform. There are also accessible restrooms available for those with disabilities. Some of these facilities may require a small fee to use.

15. Can I purchase a Suica card or other IC card for easy payment on public transportation at the station?


Yes, you can purchase a Suica card or other IC cards such as PASMO or ICOCA at the station. These cards can be used for easy payment on public transportation including trains, subways, buses, and some taxis in most major cities in Japan. You can buy a new card at ticket machines or service centers located at the station. You may also be able to recharge your existing card at the same location.

16. How often do trains depart from and arrive at Shin-Osaka Station during rush hour?


The frequency of trains departing from and arriving at Shin-Osaka Station during rush hour varies depending on the specific train line and time of day. However, on average, there are approximately 30-40 departures and arrivals every hour during rush hour.

17. Is it safe for solo travelers, especially women, to use public transportation around the station late at night?


It is generally safe for solo travelers, including women, to use public transportation around the station at night. However, as with any city or public transport system, it is always important to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions such as avoiding empty or deserted areas and keeping valuables out of sight. It may also be helpful to research the specific routes and schedules of the public transportation you plan to use and opt for busier and well-lit areas whenever possible.

18. Where can I find information about train schedules and platforms within Shin-Osaka Station?


Train schedules and platforms within Shin-Osaka Station can be found on the official website of JR West (https://www.westjr.co.jp/global/en/). You can also find this information on the JR West timetable app or through the JR West English customer service hotline. Additionally, there are schedule boards and platform information displays located throughout the station for easy reference.

19.May I bring my pet on board with me when taking public transportation around the station area?


It depends on the specific policies of each individual mode of public transportation. Some may allow pets to ride with their owner, while others may require that they are kept in a carrier or only allow service animals. It is best to check with the specific mode of transportation before bringing your pet on board. Additionally, be sure to follow all rules and regulations regarding pets and their behavior while riding public transportation.

20.What is the best way to navigate around the station for someone who does not speak Japanese?


The best way to navigate around the station for someone who does not speak Japanese is to use maps and signs. Many major train stations in Japan have both English signs and announcements, making it easier to understand where you need to go. Additionally, you can also ask station staff or fellow passengers for directions or assistance. It may also be helpful to have a translation app or phrase book on hand in case you need to communicate with someone who only speaks Japanese.