Japan is famous for many things: ancient temples, towering skyscrapers, sushi, and perhaps most impressively, its world-renowned bullet trains. I’ve had the privilege of experiencing the thrill of speeding through Japan’s countryside, and my most recent trip in April reaffirmed why these high-speed trains are so celebrated.
“The first high-speed rail system, the Tōkaidō Shinkansen, began operations in 1964,” explains Keigo Tachihara, senior concierge at Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Marunouchi. “Known for its iconic nose cone design, it quickly earned the nickname ‘the bullet train.’ Running at speeds of up to 199 miles per hour, the Shinkansen serves Japan’s main islands of Honshu, Kyushu, and Hokkaido, offering passengers comfort, punctuality, and efficiency.”
For travelers landing in Tokyo, Japan’s bullet trains make it incredibly easy to hop between popular cities like Kyoto, Osaka, and Kanazawa in a matter of hours.
Popular Bullet Train Routes
The most traveled route is the Tōkaidō Shinkansen, which links Tokyo to Yokohama, Nagoya, Osaka, and Kyoto. The Sanyō Shinkansen extends from Osaka to Fukuoka, and the Jōetsu Shinkansen takes passengers from Tokyo to Niigata, famous for its hot springs and ski resorts. Another route, the Tōhoku Shinkansen, connects Tokyo to Aomori in northern Honshu, while the Kyushu Shinkansen connects Fukuoka and Kagoshima.
How to Buy Tickets
You can purchase tickets for the Tokaido, Sanyo, and Kyushu Shinkansen through the SmartEX app, available in select countries. Tickets can be bought up to a month in advance. Travelers should note that the app may have issues with foreign credit cards.
For those planning extensive travel, the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) is an excellent option, offering unlimited rides on JR trains. Passes are available in increments of 7, 14, or 21 days and offer either ordinary or first-class (Green Car) options. However, the Nozomi and Mizuho trains are not covered by the JR Pass.
What to Expect On Board
- Fare Classes:
- Ordinary Class offers spacious seating in either a 3×2 or 2×2 layout, with options for reserved or unreserved seats.
- Green Car (First Class) provides even more comfort with a 2×2 seat layout and all seats reserved.
- Gran Class is the ultimate luxury experience, with plush leather seats, personal service, and complimentary food and beverages on select routes.
- Services: Green Car passengers on the Tokaido Shinkansen can order food and drinks by scanning a QR code, with items delivered directly to their seats. Ordinary passengers can enjoy snacks and souvenirs from the refreshment cart on Jyoetsu and Hokuriku Shinkansen lines. All trains come equipped with free Wi-Fi and restrooms.
Tips for Traveling on Japanese Bullet Trains
- Be punctual: Trains leave precisely on time.
- Purchase food at station kiosks if you have dietary restrictions.
- Check luggage requirements—larger bags may require special seat reservations.
- Be respectful of fellow passengers by keeping noise levels down and avoiding phone calls in the cars.
- For stunning views of Mt. Fuji, book a right-side window seat when traveling on the Tokaido Shinkansen from Tokyo.
With incredible efficiency, comfort, and breathtaking views, Japan’s bullet trains are an essential experience for any traveler.
