Some of you might have witnessed a bright yellow Shinkansen running on the tracks, and you might have wondered what it is. This iconic sight is none other than the "Doctor Yellow," a train dedicated to inspecting tracks and electrical systems. Officially known as the "Shinkansen Electric Track General Inspection Car," this vehicle stands out from the rest with its distinctive yellow body.
Rumors suggest that spotting the Doctor Yellow brings good luck and happiness, turning it into a symbol of fortune and gaining immense popularity.
Operating about once every 10 days, this unique train runs on the same tracks as the regular Shinkansen. It is often used for maintenance work during the night, which is why its eye-catching yellow color is selected. Although this train might sometimes be seen stationary on the platform, it's important to note that passengers cannot board it.
The striking yellow hue serves as a deterrent to prevent passengers from mistakenly boarding the vehicle. This measure ensures that passengers don't confuse it with a regular Shinkansen.
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Shinkansen-Ticket.com is a Japan-based travel agency specializing in booking Shinkansen and limited express train tickets—including high-demand routes that are often difficult to secure. With nearly a decade of experience, we’ve built a reputation for reliable, flexible, and traveler-friendly service.
We provide both QR code-based tickets for easy station access, ideal for last-minute bookings, and physical paper tickets, which can be delivered to your home abroad, hotel, major post offices, or even a friend’s residence across Japan—perfect for carefully planned itineraries.
Our expertise in Japan’s rail system allows us to offer customized support with a deep understanding of routes, connections, and seating options—including oversized luggage seats, scenic views, and group arrangements.
Trusted by thousands of repeat customers and partnered with numerous hotels and travel agencies, we regularly assist in arranging train tickets for hotel guests and tour clients across Japan.