Traveling from Okayama to Shunan, passengers can choose between the Limited Express and the Shinkansen services, providing two distinct travel experiences on this 90 km (56 miles) route. The Limited Express 'Sakura' operates on this line, with a journey time of approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes, reaching speeds of around 120 km/h (75 mph). This service is a comfortable choice with fewer stops, making it suitable for those looking to travel efficiently between the two cities.
Alternatively, the Shinkansen service, which may require a transfer, offers faster options, particularly with the Mizuho service that can reach speeds up to 285 km/h (177 mph) on its routes. Although it doesn't serve the Okayama to Shunan route directly, the connection to Shunan through other stations offers travelers an upgraded ride but also increases total travel time to around 2 hours depending on connections. The Limited Express tends to cater more to regional travelers wanting direct access, while the Shinkansen is tailored for those willing to transfer for a quicker overall journey.