Japan Shinkansen Guide: How to Ride Japan’s Bullet Train (Simple & No Stress)

If it’s your first time traveling to Japan, the Shinkansen might sound super high-tech—and a little intimidating 😅But don’t worry. Riding the Shinkansen is actually very easy, comfortable, and one of the best ways to travel between cities in Japan.

In this guide, I’ll explain what the Shinkansen is, which routes go to which cities, helpful tips & hacks, plus official links to buy tickets.

The Shinkansen bullet train at the station, Japan’s fastest and most efficient way to travel between major cities.

What Is the Shinkansen?

The Shinkansen is Japan’s high-speed bullet train that connects major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, and Hakata (Fukuoka).

Why do so many travelers choose the Shinkansen?

• 🚄 Fast and extremely punctual (delays are measured in seconds)

• 💺 Spacious and comfortable seating

• 🧳 Luggage-friendly

• 🗻 Scenic views along the way (sometimes you’ll even see Mount Fuji!)

Japan Shinkansen guide; Shinkansen Routes & Which Cities They’re Best For

Japan Shinkansen guide; To make things easier, here are the most popular Shinkansen routes for travelers 👇

1. Tokaido Shinkansen (The Busiest Route)

Tokyo – Kyoto – Osaka

Best for:

• Tokyo → Kyoto

• Tokyo → Osaka

• Kyoto ↔ Osaka

Train types:

• Nozomi → Fastest option (❌ not covered by JR Pass)

• Hikari → Slightly slower (✅ covered by JR Pass)

• Kodama → Slowest, stops at many stations

💡 Tip:

• Using a JR Pass? → Choose Hikari

• Not using a JR Pass and short on time? → Nozomi

2. Sanyo Shinkansen

Osaka – Hiroshima – Hakata (Fukuoka)

Best for:

• Osaka → Hiroshima

• Hiroshima → Fukuoka

This route is popular for visiting:

• Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

• Miyajima Island (via ferry)

3. Hokuriku Shinkansen

Tokyo – Kanazawa

Best for:

• Tokyo → Kanazawa

• Access to Shirakawa-go (by bus from Kanazawa)

Especially beautiful in winter with snowy landscapes.

4. Tohoku Shinkansen

Tokyo – Sendai – Aomori

Best for:

• Northern Japan trips

• Autumn foliage and winter snow travel

How to Buy Shinkansen Tickets (Official & Safe)

✅ Option 1: Official JR Websites (Recommended)

These are official, reliable, and easy to use:

👉 JR Central (Tokyo–Kyoto–Osaka)https://smart-ex.jp/en/

👉 JR East (Tohoku & Hokuriku)https://www.jreast.co.jp/multi/en/

You can:

• Choose your seat

• Select travel time

• Pay by credit card

✅ Option 2: Buy Tickets in Japan

• Ticket machines (English available)

• JR Ticket Office (Midori no Madoguchi)

💡 Hack: If you’re traveling during peak seasons (spring & autumn), book 1–2 days in advance to secure your seat.

✅ Option 3: Book via Klook (Easy for First-Timers)

If you prefer a simple, stress-free option, you can book Shinkansen tickets via Klook.

👉 Book Shinkansen tickets on Klook https://klook.tpo.li/ZUeQBms1

Why choose Klook?

• English interface

• Easy booking for first-time travelers

• Clear pricing

• Sometimes offers discounts or promos

💡Klook usually provides:

• E-tickets or voucher exchange

• Clear instructions on where to redeem or board

This option is great if you don’t want to deal with Japanese systems or just want something quick and familiar.

Quick Tip:

If you want the best seat and exact train, use the official JR websites.

If you want maximum convenience, Klook is a solid choice.

JR Pass: Is It Worth It?

Since the price increase, the JR Pass isn’t always worth it anymore.

JR Pass is worth it if:

• You’re traveling long distances frequently

• Your route is packed (Tokyo → Kyoto → Hiroshima → Osaka)

Buying individual tickets is cheaper if:

• You’re only doing Tokyo → Kyoto → Osaka

• You stay longer in one city

💡 Hack: Calculate your total Shinkansen fares first, then compare them with the JR Pass price.

Tips & Hacks for Riding the Shinkansen

• Choose the Right-Side Seat When traveling Tokyo → Kyoto/Osaka, choose seat E➡️ Higher chance of seeing Mount Fuji.

• Bring a Bento Buy an ekiben (station bento) before boarding. Eating while enjoying the view is a very Japanese experience 🇯🇵

• Traveling with Large Luggage?

  • Large suitcases require a reserved baggage seat

  • Or use luggage forwarding (TA-Q-BIN) for convenience

• Arrive 10–15 Minutes Early. Boarding gates close exactly on time. Japan doesn’t wait.

Shinkansen vs Plane vs Bus

Transport	Best For
Shinkansen	Fast & comfortable travel
Plane	Very long distances (e.g. Tokyo–Sapporo)
Night bus	Budget travelers

For the Tokyo–Kyoto–Osaka route, the Shinkansen remains the most ideal option.

The Shinkansen isn’t just transportation—it’s part of the Japan travel experience. Once you try it, you’ll probably want to ride it again :)

If you’re still unsure about:

• Which route suits you best

• Whether you need a JR Pass

• Planning your first Japan itinerary

Happy traveling & enjoy Japan

Cheers,

Travel With tarry