The Hikari Shinkansen, which operates on the Tokaido Line, primarily stops at two major hubs within the Tokyo metropolitan area: Tokyo Station and Shinagawa Station. Tokyo Station serves as the absolute terminus for the line; it is a massive architectural landmark where the Shinkansen tracks are located on the high-numbered platforms (typically 14 through 19). Shinagawa Station is the second stop and is often preferred by travelers staying in the southern parts of the city or those transferring from the Haneda Airport Express. From these two points, the Hikari heads west toward Nagoya, Kyoto, and Shin-Osaka. It is important to note that while the faster Nozomi stops at these same stations, the Hikari is the fastest option fully covered by the Japan Rail Pass, making these two stations vital boarding points for international tourists looking to maximize their travel value while heading toward the Kansai region.