[new299]

It's more cost effective in Japan to fly from Tokyo to Osaka than to take the Shinkansen too (Shinkansen costs ~140USD, flights 120USD).

However flying is a lot more time consuming and inconvenient. The Shinkansen system integrates well with the regular train/subway system. And of course serves locations without airports.

[minikomi]

It costs a bit to get to/from the airport too, whereas with shinkansen you have all-you-can-ride JR within the city you arrive at, until you exit the final gate. I'd say there comparable in price.

[new299]

It depends where you are. In areas not well served by the JR you can end up spending quite a bit on the Metro. But you're right the costs are comparable.

However given that, I think convenience is the deciding factor in the Shinkansen's favor.

[nandemo]

Perhaps Tokyo<->Fukuoka is a better example. Shinkansen is ~250USD while fligths are ~150USD, and Fukuoka's airport is only 15min away from downtown by subway.

[new299]

ah interesting. I don't do that route. I do the Tokyo<->Osaka route about once a week and wouldn't even consider flying because of the convenience.

Flights too Fukuoka would probably be faster too (Shinkansen would take 5 hours). I can see flights being more convenient there.

[mrtron]

I would never even think about flying. Shinkansen from Tokyo-Osaka is a massive step up in convenience and comfort.