On the Osaka to Himeji route, travelers can choose from two primary Shinkansen services: the Nozomi and the Hikari. The Nozomi Shinkansen is the fastest option, reaching speeds of up to 300 km/h (186 mph) and covering the distance in approximately 30 minutes with minimal stops, mainly at major stations like Kobe. In contrast, the Hikari Shinkansen takes about 40 minutes for the journey, making additional stops at stations such as Nishinomiya and Ashiya, allowing passengers to access more regional areas along the way.
Both services offer a choice of Ordinary and Green class seating, catering to different comfort preferences. The onboard amenities of both trains include spacious seating, refreshments, and easy access to luggage storage. The Nozomi service is optimal for those prioritizing speed, while the Hikari offers a good combination of speed and regional connectivity.