Osaka's Kinki Railway: The Journey of "Hinotori" Train

When it comes to long-distance travel in Japan, most people immediately think of the JR (Japan Railways) system. However, JR is actually operated by different companies across various regions of Japan. For example, JR East covers the Tohoku, Kanto, and Shin’etsu regions, including Tokyo, while cities like Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe are managed by JR West. There are also separate JR companies for Hokkaido, Kyushu, and Shikoku, each responsible for their local rail operations. The famous **Shinkansen (bullet train)** crosses multiple regions, meaning trains from different JR companies can travel beyond their home areas.

"Hinotori" Train

Japan's Private Railways---Kintetsu covering the eastern part of Osaka

Aside from JR, Japan boasts several private railways that also serve many intercity routes and are just as important as JR, despite being less unified. These private railways play a significant role in intercity transport. In the Kinki region (Osaka and the Kansai area), there are several key private railways such as Nankai, Kintetsu, Keihan, Hankyu, and Hanshin. Each one connects Osaka to various destinations. For instance, Keihan and Hankyu are well-known, providing routes between Osaka and Kyoto, passing through places like Uji and Arashiyama—making them convenient options for travelers headed to these spots.

One particularly important private railway is Kintetsu, which operates routes covering the eastern part of Osaka and stretches as far as Nara and even Nagoya. Kintetsu dominates the railway market in Nara, where JR is no match, and offers frequent intercity trains. While Kintetsu trains may take longer than the Shinkansen, they are much more affordable and their design makes the journey more enjoyable, perfect for those who want a relaxed travel experience.

Departing from Namba station has the advantage of avoiding the busier and more complex Umeda station. Beside Basic fare, travellers have to pay limited express charge.

Departure from Osaka Namba: The "Hinotori"

In 2020, Kintetsu launched an exciting new service: the "Hinotori" Limited Express, a sleek red train operating between Osaka Namba and Kintetsu Nagoya. With its striking red exterior, the "Hinotori" looks like a Ferrari speeding along the tracks. Inside, the train lives up to its appearance. Whether you choose the economy class with four seats per row or the first-class seating with three seats per row, both offer a more luxurious experience than typical trains. The seats are back shell-style, allowing them to recline without disturbing the passenger behind. The seat design maximizes comfort, making the two-hour trip feel relaxing.

With its striking red exterior, the "Hinotori" looks like a Ferrari speeding along the tracks.

The train’s windows are almost floor-to-ceiling, offering spectacular views of the passing scenery. If you're looking for an even more immersive view, head to the front or rear of the train, where you can watch through the nearly transparent cockpit for a driver's-eye perspective. The train also offers free Wi-Fi, so even if you aren't gazing at the scenery, you can stay connected on your devices. In addition to free Wi-Fi, there are also free large luggage lockers, a feature that is rare among intercity trains.

Economy class with four seats per row. The first-class seating with three seats per row. The seats are back shell-style, allowing them to recline without disturbing the passenger behind.

Although the Hinotori is a medium-distance intercity train and does not have a dining car, it is equipped with vending machines offering coffee and snacks. Between carriages, there’s a cozy viewing lounge with a bench by the window, where passengers can sip their coffee while enjoying the view. Before you know it, you'll have travelled from one major city to another.

Departing from Namba has the advantage of avoiding the busier and more complex Umeda station. On the other end, Kintetsu Nagoya Station is located in the city center, making it a convenient destination. Nagoya is a refined city that’s worth exploring, and using the Hinotori to travel from Osaka to Nagoya gives you the perfect opportunity to experience this luxurious train ride while visiting both cities.

Between carriages, there’s a cozy viewing lounge with a bench by the window, where passengers can sip their coffee while enjoying the view. Although the Hinotori is a medium-distance intercity train and does not have a dining car, it is equipped with vending machines offering coffee and snacks.

Kintetsu "Hinotori" Online Ticket Reservation: [Click here for reservations] https://www.kintetsu.co.jp/foreign/english/hinotori/index.html