Bullet Train Beats Plane in Tokyo-Osaka Speed Test—Here's Why

YouTuber Noel Philips recently tested two ways of travelling between Tokyo and Osaka—by bullet train and by plane. His goal was to compare which method would get him there faster. The results turned out to be surprising.

Philips first took the high-speed Shinkansen train, known for its punctuality and speed. He then returned on a short-haul flight, expecting it to be quicker despite the train's reputation for efficiency.

The journey began with Philips boarding the Nozomi service, the fastest bullet train on the Tokaido Shinkansen line. Travelling at around 175 mph, it made brief stops at Nagoya and Kyoto before arriving in Osaka. The entire trip took 4 hours and 5 minutes.

The Shinkansen has operated since 1964, connecting major Japanese cities at speeds of up to 200 mph. Delays are rare, making it one of the most reliable transport options in the country.

For the return, Philips flew from Osaka back to Tokyo. Though the flight itself lasted only 40 minutes, the total journey stretched to 5 hours and 8 minutes. Airport security checks and unexpected aircraft maintenance caused significant delays.

A typical direct flight between Tokyo Haneda and Osaka Itami usually takes about an hour. However, Philips' experience showed how ground procedures can extend travel time well beyond the actual flying duration.

After comparing both trips, Philips found the train had been faster overall. Despite the plane's higher speed in the air, the extra time spent at the airport made the difference.

The experiment highlighted how airport processes can slow down air travel. While flights are often seen as the quickest option, the Shinkansen proved more efficient for this route. Philips' findings may encourage others to reconsider train travel for short domestic trips in Japan.