Shinkansen (Bullet Train)

The world-renowned bullet train offers the highest rail speeds to match its peerless comfort, allowing travelers to travel around the country at regular intervals.

Shinkansen have different stops to accommodate passengers' destinations and schedules. For example, there are three types of Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen, namely, Nozomi, Hikari, and Kodama. The Nozomi Shinkansen stops at fewer stations compared to the other two, and is your quickest route to the Kansai region of Kyoto , Shin-Osaka, Shin-Kobe and beyond.

Note that Nozomi on the Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen Lines are not covered by the JAPAN RAIL PASS. However, if a JAPAN RAIL PASS holder additionally purchases an [ONLY WITH JAPAN RAIL PASS] NOZOMI MIZUHO Ticket before boarding the train, the pass holder may use a Nozomi train. Please purchase an [ONLY WITH JAPAN RAIL PASS] NOZOMI MIZUHO Ticket each time you use a Nozomi train. The JAPAN RAIL PASS cannot be used on the Nozomi without purchasing an additional [ONLY WITH JAPAN RAIL PASS] NOZOMI MIZUHO Ticket called a “tokkyu-ken”, or limited express / super express ticket.

The Tohoku, Hokkaido, Hokuriku and Joetsu Shinkansen lines also feature premier class seats, called “GranClass” (Rail pass users must purchase an additional ticket to access GranClass). For detailed information on all available routes and fares, see the following links —— JR Hokkaido , JR East , JR Central , JR West and JR Kyushu .

Taking a trip on the shinkansen will almost certainly be one of the highlights of a trip to Japan. The sleek trains snake through the country's mountainous regions—or sometimes straight through the mountains—to a wide range of destinations. While this service is suitably priced for super quick express train travel in unrivalled comfort, costs can be reduced by purchasing one of a variety of passes. Take a look at the following link for all the regional passes and their respective routes and costs — Regional JR Rail Passes

If you are planning to use the shinkansen to travel throughout Japan, doing some research into how to buy shinkansen tickets (JR Hokkaido , JR East , JR Central , JR West , JR Kyushu will make the process smoother. To reserve a Japan Rail Pass, please follow the instructions on this page .

If you're traveling with oversized baggage (overall dimensions of more than 160cm) on some Shinkansen Trains (the Tokaido, Sanyo, Kyushu, and Nishi-Kyushu Shinkansen lines), it's important to reserve a seat that includes space for oversized baggage ahead of time. You can do this online or directly at station ticket machines or counters. Just let the staff know you have oversized baggage when you book your ticket. There's no extra charge for reserving this space – only the regular fare for a reserved seat applies.

•What do I do if I miss my train?

Policies vary depending on the type of ticket purchased. For specific details, please consult JR staff.

•Can I reserve a seat on the shinkansen?

Many Shinkansen have both reserved and non-reserved seating areas, although some services are reserved seating only. You can reserve a seat in advance when booking your ticket.

•What if I board the wrong train by mistake?

If you get on the wrong Shinkansen, move to the non-reserved seating area (if there is one) and inform the train staff as soon as possible. They will assist you with the next steps, which may include changing trains or adjusting your ticket.

•What happens if I miss my stop?

If you pass your intended station, stay on the train until the next stop and ask the staff for guidance on how to get back.

•Can I eat or drink on the train?

Yes, eating and drinking are generally allowed on Shinkansen trains. Many travelers enjoy “eki-ben” (train station lunch boxes) during their journey.

•Where can I store oversized baggage？

Oversized baggage (overall dimensions of more than 160cm) should be placed in designated oversized baggage areas or compartments. If you're traveling with oversized baggage on some Shinkansen Trains (the Tokaido, Sanyo, Kyushu, and Nishi-Kyushu Shinkansen lines), It is recommended to reserve a seat with luggage space in advance (See “Traveling with oversized baggage on the Shinkansen” above)

•What should I do at the ticket gates?

Insert your ticket, tap your IC card or scan the QR code at the ticket gate to enter. If you have a reserved seat or special tickets, keep them handy in case staff requests to see them.