Everything You Need to Know About Riding the Shinkansen in Japan
The Shinkansen, also known as the bullet train, is Japan’s high-speed rail system, connecting cities across the country at incredible speeds. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, the Shinkansen is one of the best ways to experience Japan’s efficient and advanced transportation system. In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about riding the Shinkansen, from how to buy tickets to understanding the major routes.
Types of Shinkansen Trains
Famous for its punctuality and speed, the Shinkansen allows travelers to cover vast distances in a short amount of time. For example, you can travel from Tokyo to Kyoto in just about 2 hours and 30 minutes, and from Tokyo to Osaka in under 3 hours.
There are different types of Shinkansen services, each offering various levels of comfort and speed. Understanding these options will help you choose the best one for your travel plans.
Tokaido Shinkansen (Tokyo – Osaka)
- Nozomi (のぞみ)
The Nozomi is the fastest service on the Tokaido Shinkansen, reaching up to 320 km/h (199 mph). It’s the most popular choice for travelers heading between Tokyo and Osaka, as it only stops at the major cities of Nagoya, Shizuoka, and Shin-Osaka. Nozomi trains are not covered by the Japan Rail Pass, so passengers will need to purchase individual tickets for this service. - Hikari (ひかり)
Slightly slower than the Nozomi, Hikari is still very fast, offering great convenience. It stops at more stations than the Nozomi, such as Shinagawa and Kyoto, and is included in the Japan Rail Pass. - Kodama (こだま)
Kodama is the slowest service, stopping at every station along the route. It’s an excellent option if you want to explore multiple cities between Tokyo and Osaka. Kodama is also covered by the Japan Rail Pass.
Hokuriku Shinkansen (Tokyo – Kanazawa)
- Kagayaki (かがやき)
The Kagayaki is the fastest service on the Hokuriku Shinkansen line, running between Tokyo and Kanazawa. It offers a swift and comfortable ride, making it perfect for travelers heading to the Noto Peninsula and beyond. - Hakutaka (はくたか)
Slightly slower than Kagayaki, Hakutaka stops at several more stations, such as Toyama and Nagano. - Tsurugi (つるぎ)
A local option, Tsurugi stops at more stations and provides a slower, yet comfortable ride.
Tohoku Shinkansen (Tokyo – Aomori)
- Hayabusa (はやぶさ)
Hayabusa is the fastest option on the Tohoku Shinkansen, running between Tokyo and Aomori. It reaches speeds up to 320 km/h and stops at major cities like Sendai and Morioka. - Yamabiko (やまびこ)
Yamabiko is slightly slower than the Hayabusa, making stops at additional stations along the route.
How to Buy Shinkansen Tickets
You can buy Shinkansen tickets in several ways:
- At the Station
Tickets can be purchased at JR ticket offices (known as Midori-no-Madoguchi) or from ticket vending machines at any Shinkansen station. Be sure to bring cash or a credit card. There are also reserved seats and non-reserved seats available for purchase. - Online via Smart EX
For discounted tickets, Smart EX is an official website that offers lower prices, especially for early-bird purchases. You can easily buy your Shinkansen tickets online through Smart EX, which is a great option for tourists. Booking in advance also allows you to guarantee a seat, particularly on popular routes like Tokyo to Osaka.
How to Ride the Shinkansen
- Seat Reservations
Most Shinkansen trains offer both reserved and non-reserved seats. Non-reserved seats are available in the Nozomi trains (in cars 1 and 2) and in most Kodama trains, while reserved seats are available for all trains. If you prefer peace of mind or are traveling with large luggage, it’s a good idea to reserve your seats ahead of time. You can do this at ticket counters, vending machines, or online. - Luggage on the Shinkansen
The Shinkansen has a size restriction for luggage: the maximum size allowed for carry-on luggage is 160 cm (for the combined length, width, and height). If you have larger luggage, you will need to reserve a special seat with additional luggage space. The seats with luggage space are typically located near the back of the car or in areas near the aisle.
This luggage rule applies to the Tokaido, Sanyo, and Kyushu Shinkansen lines. Other Shinkansen lines like the Tohoku and Hokuriku Shinkansen do not have the same luggage restrictions.
- Food and Drinks on the Shinkansen
Unlike some Shinkansen lines, the Tokaido Shinkansen does not have in-car food sales, so it’s best to stock up on food and drinks before boarding. A great option is to purchase eki-ben (station bento boxes) at the station. These convenient and delicious lunch boxes allow you to enjoy regional specialties while traveling. Each major Shinkansen station has its own selection of eki-ben, so it’s a fun way to sample local dishes during your journey.
Shinkansen Travel Tips
- Use the JR Pass
If you’re traveling long distances, consider purchasing a Japan Rail Pass, which provides unlimited travel on all Shinkansen lines except for Nozomi. The pass is perfect for tourists who plan to explore multiple cities in Japan. - Upgrade to Green Car or GranClass
For a more luxurious experience, consider upgrading to a Green Car (first-class), or even GranClass on the Hokkaido and Hokuriku Shinkansen. GranClass seats are larger and more comfortable, offering light meals and drinks. Note that not all trains have GranClass, and it’s mostly available on the Tohoku, Hokkaido, and Hokuriku routes.
Shinkansen Routes
The Shinkansen network is extensive, covering most of Japan. Here are some of the major lines:
- Tokaido Shinkansen (Tokyo – Osaka)
The most popular route, connecting the major cities of Tokyo, Shin-Osaka, and Nagoya. - Sanyo Shinkansen (Osaka – Fukuoka)
This line connects Osaka to Hakata in Fukuoka, passing through Himeji and Okayama. - Kyushu Shinkansen (Hakata – Kagoshima)
The Kyushu Shinkansen travels from Hakata to the southern city of Kagoshima. - Tohoku Shinkansen (Tokyo – Sendai)
This line travels north to cities like Sendai, Morioka, and Aomori. - Hokuriku Shinkansen (Tokyo – Kanazawa)
This line connects Tokyo to Kanazawa, passing through cities like Toyama and Nagano.
Conclusion
Riding the Shinkansen is one of the best ways to experience Japan’s speed and efficiency. Whether you’re traveling from Tokyo to Kyoto, exploring Hokkaido or Kyushu, or discovering the beautiful Japanese countryside, the Shinkansen offers an unforgettable travel experience. From understanding ticket options to learning how to travel with luggage, this guide ensures you’re fully prepared for a seamless and comfortable Shinkansen journey.
This updated version now includes additional information about Shinkansen services in Hokuriku and Tohoku, the Tokaido Shinkansen specifics, and food tips for your journey. Let me know if you’d like to add or adjust anything else!
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