Travelers journeying from Shunan to Kyoto can choose between the Shinkansen and the Limited Express trains. The Sanyo Shinkansen service, specifically the Nozomi and Hikari trains, operates on this route. The Nozomi Shinkansen, renowned for its speed, can reach up to 300 km/h (186 mph) and completes the trip in approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it the fastest option with minimal stops. In contrast, the Hikari Shinkansen takes about 2 hours and includes a few more stops such as Okayama and Himeji, providing a balance between speed and accessibility to more stations.
For travelers preferring a slower pace, the Limited Express trains, particularly the Kodama service, take about 2 hours and 30 minutes, stopping at all stations along the route. While these trains are not as fast as the Shinkansen, they offer a more scenic route and opportunities to explore various towns along the way. Both the Nozomi and Hikari Shinkansen provide comfortable seating with options for both Ordinary and Green class, enhancing the travel experience.