On the route from Hashima to Shimonoseki, passengers can experience the services provided by the Sanyo Shinkansen, specifically the Hikari and the Sakura trains. The Hikari trains reach speeds of up to 300 km/h (186 mph), allowing for a journey time of approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes, with several stops at key stations including Okayama and Kurashiki. Conversely, the Sakura service takes about 2 hours and 10 minutes due to additional stops along the route, making it a slightly slower option for those wishing to experience more of the local areas.
Both trains provide a range of seating options, including Ordinary and Green class (Economy and First), ensuring that passengers can choose their preferred level of comfort. Notably, the Hikari service is ideal for those prioritizing speed, while the Sakura offers a more leisurely ride with regional insights and access to more stations, which could be beneficial for tourists. Each train is equipped with essential amenities, including onboard refreshments and spacious seating arrangements.