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The Shinkansen, also known as the bullet train, is Japan's world-famous high-speed rail network. Operated by JR (Japan Railways) companies, it connects major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, and Hakodate, offering fast, safe, and punctual transportation for millions of passengers every year.

Why Take the Shinkansen in Japan?

• Fast & Efficient: Travel from Tokyo to Kyoto in just ~2 hours.
• Punctuality: Average delay is under 1 minute.
• Comfort: Spacious seats, clean facilities, and smooth rides.
• Scenic Routes: Enjoy views of Mount Fuji, countryside, and coastal areas.
• Direct Access to Tourist Spots: Major Shinkansen stations are near hotels and sightseeing areas.

Shinkansen Lines/Routes

Tokaido Shinkansen

The Tokaido Shinkansen is Japan's most popular and busiest high-speed rail line, connecting Tokyo, Nagoya, Kyoto, and Osaka (Shin-Osaka). It is the main artery for travelers exploring central Japan.

• Trains: Nozomi, Hikari, Kodama
• Key Stops: Tokyo, Shin-Yokohama, Odawara, Shin-Fuji, Nagoya, Kyoto, Shin-Osaka
• Highlights: Easy access to Mt. Fuji views, ancient temples in Kyoto, and Osaka's street food scene
• Travel Time: Tokyo to Kyoto in ~2 hours 15 minutes (by Nozomi train)

Whether you're heading to historic Kyoto or vibrant Osaka, the Tokaido Shinkansen offers the fastest and most frequent service.

Sanyo Shinkansen

The Sanyo Shinkansen extends westward from Osaka to Hiroshima and Fukuoka (Hakata), offering fast access to Japan's southern cities.

• Trains: Mizuho, Sakura, Nozomi, Hikari, Kodama
• Key Stops: Shin-Osaka, Okayama, Hiroshima, Kokura, Hakata
• Highlights: Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima, Himeji Castle, and Hakata ramen in Fukuoka
• Travel Time: Shin-Osaka to Hakata in ~2 hours 30 minutes (by Nozomi/Mizuho train)

This line is ideal for travelers combining the Kansai region with Kyushu or visiting Japan's historical western destinations.

Tohoku Shinkansen

The Tohoku Shinkansen connects Tokyo with the northern Tohoku region, all the way up to Shin-Aomori.

• Trains: Hayabusa, Yamabiko, Nasuno
• Key Stops: Tokyo, Omiya, Sendai, Morioka, Shin-Aomori
• Highlights: Hot springs, scenic nature, snowy mountains, and regional cuisine
• Travel Time: Tokyo to Sendai in ~1 hour 30 minutes (by Hayabusa train)

This line is perfect for travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences, winter sports, or peaceful onsen gateways.

Hokuriku Shinkansen (formerly know as Nagano Shinkansen)

The Hokuriku Shinkansen travels from Tokyo to Tsuruga, passing through the scenic Japanese Alps.

• Trains: Kagayaki, Hakutaka, Asama, Tsurugi
• Key Stops: Tokyo, Omiya, Takasaki, Karuizawa, Nagano, Iiyama, Joetsumyoko, Kanazawa
• Highlights: Snow resorts in Nagano, such as Hakuba, Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, Kenrokuen Garden in Kanazawa
• Travel Time: Tokyo to Kanazawa in ~2 hours 30 minutes (by Kagayaki train)

This line is ideal for those exploring Japan's rich cultural north-central region with its mix of tradition, nature, and modernity.

Joetsu Shinkansen

The Joetsu Shinkansen connects Tokyo with Niigata, a coastal city o the Sea of Japan.

• Trains: Toki, Tanigawa
• Key Stops: Tokyo, Omiya, Takasaki, Echigo-Yuzawa, Gala Yuzawa, Niigata
• Highlights: Snow resorts in Niigata, such as Yuzawa, sake breweries, coastal seafood
• Travel Time: Tokyo to Niigata in ~2 hours (by Toki train)

This is the best Shinkansen line for winter sports enthusiasts heading to ski resorts in the Japanese Alps.

Hokkaido Shinkansen

The Hokkaido Shinkansen links Honshu and Hokkaido via the undersea Seikan Tunnel, connecting Shin-Aomori and Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto.

• Trains: Hayabusa
• Key Stops: Shin-Aomori, Okutsugaru-Imabetsu, Kikonai, Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto
• Highlights: Gateway to Hakodate, Sapporo (via local trains), and Hokkaido's natural beauty
• Travel Time: Tokyo to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto in ~4 hours 20 minutes (by Hayabusa train)
  

Currently, the line terminates at Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto, but will extend to Sapporo by 2030.

Kyushu Shinkansen

The Kyushu Shinkansen runs north-south across Japan's southern island of Kyushu, from Hakata to Kagoshima-Chuo.

• Trains: Mizuho, Sakura, Tsubame
• Key Stops: Hakata, Kumamoto, Kagoshima-Chuo
• Highlights: Active volcanoes, hot springs, historic castles, and rich southern cuisine
• Travel Time: Hakata to Kagoshima-Chuo in ~1 hours 20 minutes (by Mizuho train)

Ideal for travelers looking to explore Japan's southernmost regions beyond the usual tourist routes.

Yamagata Shinkansen

The Yamagata Shinkansen is a "mini-shinkansen" route that branches off from the Tohoku Shinkansen and connects Tokyo with Yamagata and Shinjo, deep in the mountains of the Tohoku region.

• Trains: Tsubasa
• Key Stops: Tokyo, Fukushima, Yonezawa, Yamagata, Shinjo
• Highlights: Traditional onsen towns like Zao and Ginzan Onsen, cherry season and snowy winter landscapes, local cuisine
• Travel Time: Tokyo to Yamagata in ~2 hours 30 minutes (by Tsubasa train)

This line is perfect for travelers seeking authentic Japanese countryside experiences, scenic hot springs, and quiet towns surrounded by nature.

Akita Shinkansen

The Akita Shinkansen is another mini-shinkansen route, connecting Tokyo with Akita via mountainous areas and rice-growing regions of northern Japan.

• Trains: Komachi
• Key Stops: Tokyo, Sendai, Morioka, Tazawako, Kakunodate, Akita
• Highlights: Lake Tazawa, the deepest lake in Japan, a well-preserved samurai town, Kakunodate, Akita Kanto Festival, relaxing onsen and countryside hospitality
• Travel Time: Tokyo to Akita in ~3 hours 50 minutes (by Komachi train)

This line is ideal for those exploring northern Japan's cultural traditions, quiet beauty, and seasonal festivals - especially in autumn and winter.

Shinkansen Seat Types

When booking a Shinkansen tickets, you'll be asked to choose a seat type. There are three or four options available.

Unreserved Seat (non-reserved seat)

An unreserved seat allows you to board cars designated for free seating.

• First-come, first-served
• Slightly cheaper than reserved seats
• Not guaranteed - you may have to stand if seats are full
• Best for flexible travelers or short distances

Reserved Seat

A Reserved Seat guarantees you a specific seat on a specific train.

• Assigned seat number
• Peace of mind during busy seasons
• Recommended for long-distance travel
• Ideal for families or groups traveling together

Green Reserved Seat

The Green Reserved Seat is a premium experience with more comfort and fewer passengers. Perfect for business travelers, long rides, or those seeking extra comfort.

• Wider, reclining seats
• More legroom and quieter atmosphere
• Power outlet and reading lights (on most trains)
  

Gran Class (only for some trains)

Available on certain Shinkansen lines (like Hokuriku and Tohoku), Gran Class is the most luxurious option. Comparable to business of first class on airlines - perfect for a luxurious rail experience.

• Spacious 2 x 1 seating layout
• Light meal and drink service (for some trains)
• Recliner seats with quiet

Shinkansen Tickets and Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass)

There are 2 ways to travel by Shinkansen, buying Shinkansen Tickets and Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass).

• Shinkansen Ticket: Individual train tickets for all travelers and tourists
• Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass): A special pass for foreign visitors that covers most Shinkansen lines.

Understanding Shinkansen Ticket

• Base Fare: The standard fare for travel between two stations
• Super Express Surcharge: Required for riding the Shinkansen or other express trains
• Seat Reservation Fee: Included in the surcharge for reserved seats
• Green Car / Gran Class Fee: Additional charge for premium seating options.

Depending on the route and ticket type, these charges may be issued as two separate tickets or combined into one.

FAQ about Shinkansen Tickets

Q: Can I buy Shinkansen tickets in advance?
A: Yes, you can. In fact, it is recommended to do so.

Q: Are children's tickets available?
A: Yes. Child fares apply for ages 6-11.

Q: Do I need a JR Pass to ride the Shinkansen?
A: No. You can buy individual tickets without a JR Pass.

Q: Are Nozomi or Mizuho trains included in the JR Pass?
A: No. The JR Pass does not cover the fastest Nozomi or Mizuho trains.

Q: Can I bring luggage on board?
A: Yes, but large suitcases may need a prior seat reservation with luggage space.