There are several ways to travel from Tokyo to the Izu Peninsula.
Most international travelers first think of the Shinkansen (bullet train). However, if you want a more comfortable and experience-focused journey, there is another option:
Saphir Odoriko Saphir Odoriko is a premium sightseeing train operated by JR East. It connects Tokyo with major destinations on the Izu Peninsula. The train is designed not only for transportation, but for enjoying the journey itself.
In this guide, you will learn: ・What the Saphir Odoriko train is ・The difference between Saphir Odoriko and the Shinkansen (Kodama / Hikari) ・Travel time from Tokyo to Izu ・Approximate ticket prices (in JPY) ・How to reserve seats
Shinkansen vs. Saphir Odoriko: What’s the Difference?
The main train options from Tokyo to Izu include: ・Kodama (Tokaido Shinkansen) ・Hikari (Tokaido Shinkansen) ・Odoriko (Limited Express train) ・Saphir Odoriko (Premium sightseeing limited express)
What are Kodama and Hikari? Kodama and Hikari are services on the Tokaido Shinkansen, Japan’s high-speed bullet train. ・Maximum speed: approx. 285 km/h ・Main purpose: fast transportation ・Seating classes: Ordinary Car and Green Car (first class)
The Shinkansen is very fast between Tokyo and Atami. However, if you travel to Izukyu-Shimoda (southern Izu), you usually need to transfer to another train.
In short: Shinkansen = speed-focused transportation
Saphir Odoriko: A More Premium Travel Experience
Saphir Odoriko follows a different concept.
All seats are Green Car class or higher
1+1 seating in Premium Green Car
Private compartments available
Onboard cafeteria
Large panoramic windows
Skylights that bring in natural light
Although the Saphir Odoriko runs slower than the Shinkansen, many travelers find the seating space, atmosphere, and coastal views more premium and relaxing.
Seat Comparison: Shinkansen vs. Saphir Odoriko
Shinkansen (Ordinary Car)
2+3 seat layout
Seat pitch: approx. 104 cm
Reclining seats
Saphir Odoriko (Green Car)
2+1 seat layout
Seat pitch: approx. 116 cm
Footrests
Wider seats
Saphir Odoriko (Premium Green Car – Car 1)
1+1 seat layout
Large headrests
Motorized reclining seats
Significantly more personal space
Compared to a busy Shinkansen train, Saphir Odoriko generally offers a quieter and more spacious environment.
Travel Time from Tokyo
Approximate travel times (may vary depending on schedule):
Tokyo → Ito: about 1 hour 30 minutes
Tokyo → Kawazu: about 2 hours 20 minutes
Tokyo → Izukyu-Shimoda: about 2 hours 40 minutes
In some cases, the Shinkansen may be slightly faster. However, Saphir Odoriko provides direct service to major Izu stations without transfers.
Ticket Prices (Approximate, in JPY)
Ticket prices depend on the travel date, seat type, and availability.
Example: Tokyo to Izukyu-Shimoda
Green Car: approx. 8,000–10,000 JPY
Premium Green Car: approx. 12,000–15,000 JPY
Private compartments: price varies depending on size and number of passengers
These are reference prices only. Prices may change depending on the season and seat availability.
Compared to the Shinkansen, Saphir Odoriko tickets are generally more expensive, but the seating class and onboard experience are also higher.
Scenic Experience Along the Coast
After leaving Tokyo Station, the train passes through urban areas before reaching Odawara. Beyond this point, the scenery gradually changes.
Along the Izu coastline, passengers can see the Pacific Ocean from large windows. On clear days, Mount Fuji may also be visible in the distance.
The train runs close to the shoreline in some sections, which offers views that are difficult to experience on the Shinkansen.
Which Train Should You Choose?
Choose the Shinkansen if:
You want the fastest possible route
You prefer a lower ticket price
You prioritize efficiency
Choose Saphir Odoriko if:
You want a more comfortable and spacious seat
You prefer a quieter atmosphere
You want to enjoy coastal scenery
You consider travel time part of the overall experience
The best choice depends on your travel style and priorities.
The Shinkansen is fast, efficient, and convenient.
Saphir Odoriko offers a different type of journey. It focuses more on comfort, space, and scenic travel along the Izu coast.
If you value speed, the Shinkansen may be the better option. If you value a more premium and relaxed experience, Saphir Odoriko is worth considering for your trip from Tokyo to Izu.
