For the journey from Ueno to Kurihara, travelers primarily use the Tohoku Shinkansen, one of Japan's high-speed trains. The Yamabiko service on this route travels at speeds of up to 240 km/h (149 mph) and typically covers the distance in about 2 hours and 20 minutes, with a few stops at major stations like Sendai and Morioka along the way. The Sakunami Limited Express is another option for this route, which offers a more leisurely pace at speeds of approximately 95 km/h (59 mph) and takes around 3 hours, making several stops at smaller stations.
The Tohoku Shinkansen provides both Standard and Green class seating, catering to a range of preferences for comfort. The Yamabiko train emphasizes speed and efficiency, while those opting for the Sakunami can experience a scenic ride through the countryside, albeit with a longer travel time. Food and drink services are available on the shinkansen, ensuring a pleasant travel experience for all passengers.