Most of you may wonder, what is Shinkansen? Japanese Shinkansen, often referred to as the bullet train, is an iconic symbol of the country's technological prowess, efficiency, and dedication to excellence. Since its inception in the 1960s, the Shinkansen has revolutionized travel in Japan, offering unparalleled speed, comfort, and reliability.

Traveloka will take you on a Shinkansen journey to the history, network, seating options, luggage regulations, and booking procedure, providing you with all the information you need to navigate this remarkable transportation system.

The Shinkansen's first debut was in October 1964, just in time for the Tokyo Olympics. The inaugural line, known as the Tokaido Shinkansen, connected Tokyo and Osaka, slashing travel time between the two cities from over six hours to just four. This groundbreaking achievement marked the beginning of a new era in Japanese transportation.

Over the years, the Shinkansen network has expanded significantly, encompassing multiple lines and connecting major cities across the country. Today, the Shinkansen is synonymous with speed, safety, and punctuality, serving as the backbone of Japan's rail infrastructure.

There are several compelling reasons to choose the Japan Shinkansen for your travel needs:

Speed & Reliability. With speeds averaging around 240-320 kilometers per hour (150-200 miles per hour), the Shinkansen drastically reduces travel time between major cities, making it an ideal choice for both business and leisure travelers. The Shinkansen has a stellar reputation for punctuality and reliability, with an impressive on-time performance record exceeding 99%.

Convenience & Views. The extensive Shinkansen network covers major cities and regions throughout Japan, providing convenient access to a wide range of destinations. Traveling by Shinkansen allows passengers to enjoy breathtaking views of Japan's diverse landscapes, from snow-capped mountains to lush countryside and coastal vistas. With large windows offering panoramic views, the journey itself becomes an unforgettable experience.

Environmental benefits? Yes! The Shinkansen is an eco-friendly mode of transportation, producing significantly lower carbon emissions compared to other forms of travel such as air or road transport. By choosing the Shinkansen, passengers can reduce their environmental impact while enjoying a comfortable and convenient travel experience.

The Japanese Shinkansen network consists of multiple lines that crisscross the country, connecting major cities and regions with high-speed rail service. Here are some of the primary Shinkansen lines in Japan.

Image source: Google - Japan Guide

These are just a few examples of the Shinkansen lines in Japan, each offering efficient and comfortable travel across the country. Whether you're exploring the bustling metropolises of Tokyo and Osaka or venturing into the tranquil countryside, the Shinkansen provides a convenient and scenic way to experience all that Japan has to offer.

The Japan Shinkansen offers various seating options and classes to accommodate the diverse preferences and needs of travelers. Here are the primary classes available on most Shinkansen trains:

Please note that the actual ticket prices may vary depending on factors such as the distance of the journey, the specific route, and the time of booking. Additionally, prices are subject to change based on promotions, discounts, and seasonal variations.

Each class offers a different level of comfort and service, allowing passengers to choose the option that best suits their preferences and budget. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly option or a luxurious travel experience, the Shinkansen has you covered with its range of seating classes.

The Japan Shinkansen imposes specific luggage size limits per class to ensure the safety and comfort of passengers. Here are the general guidelines for luggage size limits:

The luggage limit on Japan Shinkansen trains typically adheres to the standard guidelines for carry-on baggage. Passengers are generally allowed to bring luggage that fits within the dimensions of approximately 250 centimeters (9.8 inches) in height, 350 centimeters (13.8 inches) in width, and 600 centimeters (23.6 inches) in length.

Additionally, passengers are usually permitted to bring one small personal item, such as a backpack or handbag, onboard the Shinkansen. It's important to note that the exact luggage limit may vary depending on the specific train operator, service type, and individual Shinkansen train. Additionally, oversized or excessively heavy luggage may need to be checked or stored in designated areas onboard the train.

Passengers are advised to pack efficiently and within the specified size limits to ensure a comfortable and hassle-free journey on Japan's high-speed rail network.

Purchasing Japan Shinkansen tickets is a relatively straightforward process, and there are several methods available to travelers:

One of the most convenient ways to buy Shinkansen tickets is through online booking platforms. The best way is from Traveloka, which offer online ticketing services. Check out our online Shinkansen ticket for a secured reservation!

Simply visit the official website or a trusted booking platform like us, enter your travel details (departure station, destination, date, and time), select your preferred Shinkansen service, and choose your seating class. Complete the payment process using a credit or debit card, and you'll receive a confirmation email with your e-ticket or reservation details.

Travelers can purchase Shinkansen tickets directly from ticket counters at major train stations across Japan. Look for ticket offices labeled 緑 の 窓口 "Midori no Madoguchi" or "Ticket Office" within the station.

Queue up at the ticket counter and inform the staff of your desired destination, departure time, and seating preference. The staff will assist you in selecting the appropriate ticket and completing the purchase. Payment can be made in cash or by credit/debit card, depending on the ticket counter's payment options.

✅Useful Tips: If you don’t speak Japanese, it is strongly advised to write all the passenger data on a piece of paper and then give it to the salesperson to make the purchasing process smoother.

Many train stations, especially major ones, are equipped with automated ticket vending machines that allow travelers to purchase Shinkansen tickets.

Select your preferred language, follow the on-screen instructions to input your travel details, choose your desired ticket type and class, and complete the transaction by inserting cash or using a credit/debit card. Once the transaction is complete, the vending machine will issue your tickets, along with a receipt if requested.

Does JR Pass cover Shinkansen? Yes! If you have a Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass), you can use it to board most Shinkansen trains without purchasing individual tickets. However, seat reservations are recommended, especially during peak travel periods. To make seat reservations with a JR Pass, visit a ticket counter at a JR station, present your pass, and request seat reservations for your desired Shinkansen routes and dates.

Regardless of the method you choose, it's advisable to book your Shinkansen tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons or for popular routes, to secure your preferred seats and departure times. With these options available, purchasing Shinkansen tickets is convenient and hassle-free, allowing you to enjoy seamless travel across Japan's high-speed rail network.

Passengers should also be mindful of the limited space available in overhead storage compartments and luggage racks onboard the Shinkansen, especially during peak travel periods. Packing efficiently and within the specified size limits will help ensure a comfortable and hassle-free journey on Japan's high-speed rail network.

The Japan Shinkansen offers a combination of speed, reliability, comfort, and convenience that makes it an attractive choice for travelers looking to explore Japan's diverse attractions and regions. Book your Singapore to Tokyo flight with Traveloka and don’t miss out on the experience of Shinkansen for your business trip, sightseeing adventure, or leisurely getaway across the Land of the Rising Sun! Explore Traveloka for great deals on activities, flight, and hotel. Visit Traveloka for more information!