SHINKANSEN (BULLET TRAIN) GUIDE: ENJOY JAPANESE OMOTENASHI CULTURE

Do you have trains or bullet trains (Shinkansen) in your country? I live in Lithuania now, and I recently discovered that a train has recently opened from the capital of Vilnius to the neighboring country of Riga, Latvia. The distance is approximately 263km, and the travel time is 4 hours and 15 minutes. Since buses are exhausting and uncomfortable, we are so glad to have trains now. Similarly, the Japanese Hokuriku Shinkansen extended a route on March 16, 2024, and a new train started from Kanazawa Station to Tsuruga Station in Fukui Prefecture. Thus, traveling to hot spring resorts and tourist destinations has become much more convenient. So let’s talk a little more about trains in Japan.

Japan’s Shinkansen is fast and convenient – for example, the distance from Tokyo to Osaka is about 550km, but you can arrive in as little as 2 and a half hours! In this blog, we’ll explore the charm of the Shinkansen, provide a guide on how to buy a ticket, and share tips on enjoying the experience focusing on ekiben. We hope everyone will have the chance to enjoy Japan’s bullet trains and beautiful Hokuriku area to support recovery from the 2024 Noto earthquake in any way possible.

What is Shinkansen?

Shinkansen refers to Japan’s high-speed railway system and is a mainline railway that can exceed 200 kilometers per hour! The first Shinkansen, the Tokaido Shinkansen, started on October 1, 1964. Since then, there have been no accidents on the Tokaido Shinkansen in which passengers have been killed or injured. Moreover, it is safe and fast, reaching a maximum of 320km/h speed.

Furthermore, the Tokaido Shinkansen has offered onboard food services since 1964. Unfortunately, the Tokaido Shinkansen’s “Nozomi” and “Hikari” services ended on October 31, 2023. Currently, the new system has started, and a mobile ordering service is available in the Green Car, allowing passengers to order “ekiben” (station bento boxes) and beverages via smartphone and receive them at their seats. More details will be explained later.

Shinkansen Types and Seating Selection

Here, we will explain the different types of Shinkansen that are available. In this section, please keep in mind that the Shinkansen doesn’t turn around, it just changes direction. So, the seating side is the same no matter which way you’re going.

Hokkaido Shinkansen (Between Shin-Aomori Station and Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station)

• It operates with the Tohoku Shinkansen together.

1. Hayabusa – Available up to 320km/h

• Non-stop trains available
• Seat Types: Ordinary (reserved seating only), Green Car (reserved seating only), Gran Class (reserved seating only).
• On-board food services are available only in the Gran Class, which is connected with Tohoku Shinkansen from Tokyo station.

2. Hayate – Operating at 275km/h.

• Only one round trip per day between Shin-Aomori Station and Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station, and between Morioka Station and Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station, making it a rare service.
• Seat Types: Ordinary (reserved seating only), Green Car (reserved seating only), Gran Class (reserved seating only).
• There is no on-board food, not even in the Gran Class.

* We recommend sitting on the A side (right side when going to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station) for the Hokkaido Shinkansen. There will be sunlight in the morning, but you’ll have clear views of Mutsu Bay, the Natsudomari Peninsula, and the Tsugaru Kaikyo, with Mount Hakodate visible.

During winter, the Hokkaido Shinkansen is covered by snow, making the view worse. Thus, spring (April to May), autumn (October to November), and clear days around 1 to 3 PM when the sun sets towards the west offer the best views. Additionally, Mount Hakodate can be seen not only from the A side but also from the E side. If you miss out on A-side seats, definitely try for E-side seats.

Moreover, consider upgrading to the Gran Class for a luxury experience if your budget allows.

Tohoku Shinkansen (Between Tokyo Station and Shin-Aomori Station)

1. Hayabusa – (Between Utsunomiya Station and Morioka Station)

• All trains operate non-stop between Omiya Station and Sendai Station.
• Seat Types: Ordinary (reserved seating only), Green Car (reserved seating only), Gran Class (reserved seating only).
• On-board food services are available only in the Gran Class.

2. Yamabiko (Between Tokyo Station and Sendai Station, Morioka Station)

• This train offers unreserved seating and stops at multiple stations.
• Seat Types: Ordinary (unreserved and reserved seating), Green Car (reserved seating only), Gran Class (reserved seating only).
• There is no on-board food, not even in the Gran Class.

3. Nasuno (Between Tokyo Station and Nasushiobara Station, Koriyama Station)

• A local train with frequent stops.
• Seat Types: Ordinary (unreserved and reserved seating), Green Car (reserved seating only), Gran Class (reserved seating only).
• There is no on-board food, not even in the Gran Class.

The Tohoku Shinkansen boasts Japan’s fastest speeds, but speeds vary by section. For example, between Tokyo Station and Ueno Station, speeds range from 110 km/h to 130km/h, and between Ueno Station and Omiya Station, speeds range from 110 km/h to 130 km/h.

If you are departing Tokyo Station in the early hours of 8 AM~, we recommend taking seat E on “Hayabusa 7” for stunning mountain views. Since the Tohoku Shinkansen heads north, mornings can be beautiful but also bright, leading many passengers to lower blinds. Typically, E seats are better, but it might depend on the time. For instance, selecting E seats for morning trains and A seats for afternoon journeys is recommended.

Akita Shinkansen (Between Morioka Station and Akita Station)

1. Komachi

• This mini Shinkansen has a cute dolphin-like design.
• Seat Types: Ordinary (unreserved and reserved seating), Green Car (reserved seating only)
• There are no on-board food services.

Between Morioka Station and Omagari Station, the A-side seats offer better views of Mt. Iwaki and Mt. Akita Komagatake. Overall, A-side is recommended as the Shinkansen faces south and hits the sunlight on D-side seats during the day.

Yamagata Shinkansen (Between Fukushima Station and Shinjo Station)

• The Tokyo Station to Fukushima Station section is part of the Tohoku Shinkansen, so “Yamagata Shinkansen” isn’t officially known as the route name.

1. Tsubasa

• Operating approximately once per hour, Tsubasa trains are typically crowded.
• Seat Types: Ordinary (unreserved and reserved seating), Green Car (reserved seating only)
• There are no on-board food services.

In the morning, sunlight hits the A-side of trains heading towards Shinjo St, while in the afternoon, it hits the left side (D-side). Both sides offer beautiful views of Yamagata’s characteristic mountains and plateaus.

Joetsu Shinkansen (Between Omiya Station and Niigata Station)

• The official route is from Omiya Station to Niigata Station, and between Tokyo Station and Omiya Station is covered by the Tohoku Shinkansen.

1. Toki

• Offering a mix of services from fully stopping at each station to nearly non-stop journeys.
• Seat Types: Ordinary (unreserved and reserved seating), Green Car (reserved seating only), Gran Class (reserved seating only).
• There are no on-board food services.

2. Tanigawa

• It is a local service that operates mainly during the morning and evening between Tokyo Station, Ueno Station, Takasaki Station, and Echigo-Yuzawa Station.
• Seat Types: Ordinary (unreserved and reserved seating *some trains offer unreserved seating only), Green Car (reserved seating only), Gran Class (reserved seating only).
• There are no on-board food services.

The route has tunnels with limited scenic views, especially between Takasaki and Nagaoka Station. However, you can enjoy wonderful landscapes from Omiya Station to Takasaki Station and Nagaoka Station to Niigata Station.

In the morning, sunlight pours in mainly from the A side towards Niigata, while in the evening, it’s from the E side. Between Nagaoka Station and Niigata Station, the train’s shadow reflects on paddy fields from the E side during summer mornings, offering unique Niigata views.

Both A and E seats offer various mountain views, so choosing a seat depending on sunlight direction is advisable. Moreover, the 8th car of all JR East Shinkansen trains, including the Joetsu Shinkansen, started the feature of “Shinkansen Office Car.” These seats allow for web conferences and calls but cannot be reserved, so please move to these seats when needed.

Tokaido Shinkansen (Between Tokyo Station and Shin-Osaka Station)

• It directly connects Japan’s three major cities, such as Tokyo, Nagoya, and Osaka, transporting up to 458,000 people daily.

1. Nozomi

• All trains stop at Shinagawa Station, Shin-Yokohama Station, Nagoya Station, and Kyoto Station, making it convenient.
• Seat Types: Ordinary (unreserved and reserved seating), Green Car (reserved seating only).
• On-board food services are available in the Green car (Online order only).

2. Hikari

• Stops at normal cities like Shizuoka Station.
• Seat Types: Ordinary (unreserved and reserved seating), Green Car (reserved seating only).
• On-board food services are available in the Green car (Online order only).

3. Kodama

• It stops at many stations and runs twice an hour between Shin-Osaka Station and Nagoya Station.
• Seat Types: Ordinary (unreserved and reserved seating), Green Car (reserved seating only).
• No on-board food services.

Towards Shin-Osaka, the left side has a 3-seat (A-C), while the right has a 2-seat (D-E). Since you’ll catch the best view of Mount Fuji, we recommend E-side seats. However, A-side seats are also great in the evening when there’s no direct sunlight. The huge Mount Fuji visible around Shin-Fuji Station is a highlight of the Tokaido Shinkansen journey.

As the Tokaido Shinkansen doesn’t make U-turns and just changes direction, securing an E seat is recommended regardless of direction. However, if E seats are unavailable, A side seats also offer views of the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Toji Temple’s five-story pagoda” and the sea, so do not worry and enjoy the view!!

Hokuriku Shinkansen (Between Takasaki Station and Tsuruga Station)

• It is currently extended to Tsuruga City, Fukui Prefecture, and is planning to reach Osaka by 2046.

1. Kagayaki

• It is the fastest train and stops only at Ueno, Omiya, Nagano, and Toyama Station.
• Seat Types: Ordinary (reserved seating only), Green Car (reserved seating only), Gran Class (reserved seating only).
• Attendants provide light snacks and drinks except on certain sectional trains.

2. Hakutaka

• Operates hourly.
• Seat Types: Ordinary (unreserved and reserved seating), Green Car (reserved seating only), Gran Class (reserved seating only).
• Gran Class is slightly cheaper since there is no attendant service.

3. Asama

• Works between Tokyo Station and Nagano Station.
• Seat Types: Ordinary (unreserved and reserved seating), Green Car (reserved seating only), Gran Class (reserved seating only).
• Gran Class is slightly cheaper since there is no attendant service.

4. Tsurugi

• Short-distance transportation between Toyama Station, Shin-Takaoka Station, and Kanazawa Station.
• Seat Types: Ordinary (unreserved and reserved seating), Green Car (reserved seating only).
• There are no on-board food services.

For the Hokuriku Shinkansen, on the left side which is E-seat towards Kanazawa, you can see the Tateyama Mountain and the Hida Mountain. From the A side, you can also enjoy a view of the Japan Sea.

In 2023, the line was extended to Tsuruga Station, connecting six stations: Komatsu, Kaga Onsen, Awara Onsen, Fukui, Echizen-Takefu, and Tsuruga. These stations are known for their hot springs and tourist attractions. Explore the beauty of Japan’s Hokuriku area through sight, touch, and experience.

Sanyo Shinkansen (Between Shin-Osaka Station and Hakata Station)

• Transports an average of 198,000 passengers daily.

1. Nozomi

• The fastest train directly connects from the Tokaido Shinkansen.
• It’s slightly pricier than “Hikari,” “Sakura,” and “Kodama.”
• Typically, there are 3 to 4 trains per hour, but during peak periods like holidays, up to 6 trains run per hour.
• Seat Types: Ordinary (unreserved and reserved seating), Green Car (reserved seating only).
• On-board food services are available in Green Car.

2. Mizuho

• Kagoshima-Chuo Station to Shin-Osaka Station is in just 3 hours and 41 minutes.
• Only 8 services run from the originating station in the morning and evening.
• Seat Types: Ordinary (unreserved and reserved seating), Green Car (reserved seating only).
• There are no on-board food services.

4. Hikari

• One train runs per hour, stopping at various stations along the Sanyo Shinkansen.
• Seat Types: Ordinary (unreserved and reserved seating), Green Car (reserved seating only).
• On-board food services are available in Green Car.

5. Sakura

• These are Kyushu Shinkansen through services that stop at major cities along the Sanyo Shinkansen.
• One to two trains run per hour.
• Seat Types: Ordinary (unreserved and reserved seating), Green Car (reserved seating only).
• There are no on-board food services.

6. Kodama

• It is a local train that stops at multiple stations, it operates on various sections, including Shin-Osaka Station to Hakata
• Station, Okayama Station to Hiroshima Station, and Kokura Station to Hakata Station.
• Seat Types: depends on Shinkansen types.
• There are no on-board food services.

The right-side seats (D and E seats) are recommended for the Sanyo Shinkansen, as you can see Himeji and Fukuyama castle when you head towards Hakata.

Kyushu Shinkansen (Between Hakata Station and Kagoshima-Chuo Station)

• Numerous stops make it convenient, and it is also something new and unique as it incorporates Japan’s traditional culture into the Shinkansen.

1. Mizuho

• This is the fastest train on the Kyushu Shinkansen, directly connecting to the Sanyo Shinkansen.
• Seat Types: Ordinary (unreserved and reserved seating), Green Car (reserved seating only)
• Vending machines are available in cars 3 and 7.

2. Sakura

• This is the primary train on the Kyushu Shinkansen, running for 10 to 30 minutes.
• Seat Types: Depends on the type of Shinkansen; you’ll see options when purchasing tickets!
• Vending machines are available in cars 3, 7, or 4.

3. Tsubame

• Stops at each station along the route.
• Seat Types: Depends on the type of Shinkansen; you’ll see options when purchasing tickets!
• Vending machines are available in cars 3, 7, or 4.

On the Kyushu Shinkansen, heading north and south of Kyushu, there is sunlight on the A side in the morning and on the E side in the afternoon. So, for a comfortable journey, consider choosing seats on the opposite side: E seats in the morning and A seats in the afternoon.

West Kyushu Shinkansen (Between Takeo Onsen Station and Nagasaki Station)

• The West Kyushu Shinkansen, which opened on September 23, 2022, connects Takeo Onsen to Nagasaki.
• It takes just 23 minutes to travel between Takeo Onsen Station and Nagasaki Station.

1. Kamome

• Featuring a white body with red accents and a blend of Japanese and Western interior design, the Kamome stands out as a traditional Kyushu-inspired train.
• Seat Types: Ordinary (unreserved and reserved seating)

Selecting the right seat is vital in order to travel by Shinkansen. I mentioned sunlight and views in general. However, these keys are also essential:

Sitting in the front row or by the window is recommended when working with a laptop or documents. These seats often have slightly larger tables than others, and there’s a higher chance of having power outlets. However, the availability and placement of power outlets vary depending on the type of train, so it’s a good idea to check with station staff before purchasing your ticket.

Generally, A and E seats are popular due to their views, but if you would like to prioritize relaxation, consider the central B seat might be a good choice. Especially on trains like the “Nozomi” and “Hikari,” the B seat in the middle of the three-seat tends to be slightly wider.

It’s best to purchase Shinkansen tickets as early as possible. While buying them at the station is an option, purchasing them online via the website is also convenient.

How to buy a Ticket?

There are two types of Shinkansen tickets such as “Reserved Seat Tickets” and “Unreserved Seat Tickets.” Seat regulations vary depending on the Shinkansen, so please check before buying a ticket. In general, selecting a reserved seat has the benefit of securing a seat even during crowded periods.

*On certain Shinkansen trains, better-quality seats, including “Green Car” or “Gran Class,” are charged additional fees.

It is also important to know when the busiest periods are, as ticket prices fluctuate depending on the time of purchase. For instance, prices tend to be higher during Golden Week, Obon, and the New Year holidays, while they are lower from mid-January to the end of February and on weekdays in June and September.

Therefore, make sure to check Japan’s calendar for 2024!

There are three ways to purchase tickets:

1. Using Ticket Vending Machines

Tickets can be bought at these machines at many Shinkansen stations, and they are available anytime. Payment options include cash and credit cards. First, you’ll select either a reserved or unreserved seat, specify your departure and arrival stations, and then choose your preferred date and time.

2. At Ticket Counters (Midori no madoguchi)

At the counters, staff will assist you in arranging your tickets. Take it easy and communicate your seating preferences. Payment can be made in cash or by credit card. Additionally, ticket counters at major stations are open from around 5:30 AM to 11:00 PM. So, if you are planning to buy tickets from the counters, follow the Green color!!

3. Online Purchase

Shinkansen tickets
This website allows you to buy tickets easily.

JR East
This website mainly offers online ticket purchasing for Shinkansen in Eastern Japan (Tohoku, Akita, Hokkaido, Yamagata, Joetsu, Hokuriku Shinkansen).

SmartEX
This website lets you purchase tickets for Shinkansen routes connecting major cities like Tokyo, Shizuoka, Nagoya, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, Hakata, and Kumamoto. By registering as a free member and providing credit card information, you will be able to make reservations online. Early Special tickets are available and your smartphone will serve as your ticket, making it convenient.

Puratto Kodama
If you plan to use the Kodama Shinkansen between Tokyo and Shin-Osaka, purchasing this ticket is highly recommended. You can buy a one-way ticket for a regular reserved seat at a lower price during normal periods.

This is because it’s not an actual Shinkansen ticket but a travel plan from JR Tokai Tours. The ticket includes a drink voucher, allowing you to get a beverage at selected shops on Shinkansen platforms. Applications are only accepted online, and tickets can be received at designated JR Tokai ticket vending machines. There are many discounted packages available, combining Shinkansen tickets with hotel accommodations, so it is a must option for people who want to enjoy a trip economically.

*There are several restrictions, so please research just in case.

Typically, Shinkansen seats can be reserved one month in advance from 10:00 AM. During busy periods seats sell out quickly, so purchasing early is essential.

One seat change is allowed free of charge, but if you wish to change your seat after that, you must request a refund and purchase a new ticket. In this case, unused and valid Shinkansen tickets can be refunded, but cancellation fees apply. In addition, if you miss your Shinkansen, your reserved seat ticket becomes invalid, but you can still board other trains with unreserved seats on the same day.

Foodie’s Guide to Shinkansen Delights

As you can see from the Shinkansen lists, several on-board food services exist. Sadly, most of them are only available in specific places like Green and Gran Class cars. The traditional onboard wagon sales have decreased because more station vendors have popped up, encouraging passengers to buy their Ekiben before boarding. With all the local gourmets at each station, choosing Ekiben while waiting for the Shinkansen is an absolute delight and adds to the Shinkansen journey.

Lastly, we will introduce how to enjoy food on the Shinkansen journey based on the new mobile order-based onboard sales and hospitality similar to business class on airplanes.

Mobile Order Service

On the Tokaido Shinkansen, “Nozomi” and “Hikari,” you can now use your smartphone to scan the QR code provided at each seat on Green Cars to order meals and drinks directly. The menu includes tea, coffee, ice cream, snacks, meals, alcoholic beverages, appetizers, and souvenirs. After ordering, the attendant will deliver your items to your seat. You can pay using cash or cards.

Furthermore, this system is amazing, as you don’t need to check what they have in the wagon or worry about others, allowing you to take your time to choose. Don’t miss trying the drip coffee and ice cream, which are particularly popular items!

On-board service and Mobile Order Service

Nozomi and Hikari trains offer wagon services in their Green Cars on the Sanyo Shinkansen line between Shin-Osaka and Hakata. On the line, you can purchase soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, snacks, sweets, ice cream, local foods from the western Japan region, and Shinkansen merchandise. Furthermore, you can reserve Ekiben from two courses if you register for free. The first option is a bento featuring local specialties from western Japan, and the second option is a chef’s choice bento.

The website allows you to reserve the first Ekiben option up to three days before your journey. Additionally, the chef’s choice bento can be reserved up to the day before your journey. With this option, you will randomly get one of the bento boxes available on the website and have it delivered to your seat along with tea. Therefore, if you can’t buy food before the early morning train and your seat is on Green Car, you can order online.

GranClass

Gran Class is the epitome of luxury aboard the Shinkansen, with only 18 seats available per train. Some trains offer light meal services and others focus solely on seat comfort. Gran Class has dedicated attendants and offers light meals for an extra fee of around 5,000 yen on top of the Green Class fare.

You can enjoy a selection of delicious Western and Japanese dishes and 10 varieties of local alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, including Japanese sake and wine chosen by professional sommeliers. While it may cost more, experiencing seasonal sweets, snacks, and unlimited drinks is definitely worth a try. Another advantage is access to the “View Gold Lounge” at Tokyo Station, available 90 minutes before your train’s departure until it leaves. Don’t miss the chance to try Japan’s Shinkansen GranClass!

Traveling on the Shinkansen is not just a way of transportation but a comfortable and enjoyable experience. The Shinkansen offers a range of options to suit every traveler’s needs, from standard seats to Green Cars or even Gran Class, for a touch of luxury. With the convenience of online ticket booking and onboard food services like mobile ordering, it’s easier than ever to savor a smooth and stress-free journey! I hope the Shinkansen will take you to your next destination filled with romance.

Featured Photo Credit: ちょこピー

Now that you’re locked and loaded to ride the bullet train, why not make your trip extra special by booking one of our amazing food tours in Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka?