Everything you need to know about Japan’s bullet trains

One of Japan's most iconic sights is the bullet train, or "shinkansen," zooming past the snow-covered Mount Fuji. While it might seem like a bit of a cliché, it perfectly represents Japan’s unique mix of tradition and modernity. Beyond the stunning views, riding the bullet train is a must-do experience when you're in Japan. It might feel a little intimidating at first, but don’t worry – here are a few tips to help you make the most of your bullet train journey.

So, how are bullet trains any different from regular trains?

Used widely by locals, the Shinkansen, Japan's bullet train system, stands apart from regular trains in several significant ways. 

They are fast

The most obvious difference is the speed. While regular express trains in Japan usually run at around 100-130 km/h, Shinkansen trains can reach up to 320 km/h. This means travel times between major cities are way shorter.

Unlike regular trains, which often share tracks with slower local services, Shinkansen trains run on specially designed high-speed tracks. These tracks have fewer curves and inclines, which allows for smoother and faster travel.

They are advanced

Shinkansen trains incorporate a lot of cutting-edge technology. From their aerodynamic noses that reduce air resistance and noise to their advanced suspension systems that make the ride smoother, these trains are truly impressive.

On major routes, like Tokyo to Osaka, you’ll find Shinkansen trains departing as often as every few minutes during peak hours.

And while all Japanese trains are known for being on time, the Shinkansen takes it to another level. On the Tokaido Shinkansen line, the average delay is less than one minute, even when accounting for things like natural disasters.

They are comfortable

Shinkansen trains also offer a level of comfort that goes beyond most regular trains. They have spacious seating, large windows, and minimal vibration, even at high speeds. The journey itself becomes part of the travel experience.

Bullet trains also have plenty of "why don't all trains have this" features, like seats that you can turn around (to make space for your luggage or sit in a group with your friends), and they look pretty space-age.

Where can I go on the bullet train?

The bullet train lines stretch across much of Japan, running from Kagoshima at the southern tip of Kyūshū all the way to Hakodate on Hokkaidō, the northern island. 

Most major tourist spots have a station nearby, making it easy for you to hop on and visit places. There are so many Shinkansen trains that you only have to wait a few minutes, whether you're traveling within Tokyo or to another prefecture.

Here’s a quick guide to the main Shinkansen lines and the regions they cover:

• Tokaido Shinkansen: The oldest and busiest line, connecting Tokyo with Nagoya, Kyoto, and Osaka. It's the backbone of Japan's bullet train network and offers stunning views of Mount Fuji.
• Sanyo Shinkansen: Extends westward from Osaka, serving major cities like Kobe, Okayama, Hiroshima, and terminates in Fukuoka (Hakata Station) on the island of Kyushu.
• Kyushu Shinkansen: Runs from Fukuoka southward through Kyushu, serving cities like Kumamoto and terminating in Kagoshima. It offers a scenic mountain route.
• Tohoku Shinkansen: Heads north from Tokyo, serving cities in northern Honshu including Sendai, Morioka, and terminates in Aomori.
• Hokkaido Shinkansen: The newest line, connecting Tokyo with Hokkaido through the world's longest undersea tunnel, the Seikan Tunnel. Currently extends from Aomori to Hakodate in southern Hokkaido, with plans for future extension to Sapporo.
• Hokuriku Shinkansen: Runs northwest from Tokyo, serving Nagano and currently terminating in Kanazawa, giving access to the Hokuriku region.
• Joetsu Shinkansen: Another northbound line from Tokyo, terminating in Niigata on the Sea of Japan coast. It's perfect for those heading to ski resorts.
• Akita Shinkansen: Branches off the Tohoku line at Morioka to serve Akita in northwestern Honshu.
• Yamagata Shinkansen: Branches from the Tohoku line at Fukushima to serve Yamagata.

Where should I go on the bullet train?

Wondering where to go on the bullet train? Here are some popular routes and their approximate travel times to help you plan your trip:

• Tokyo to Kyoto/Osaka: About 2.5 hours on the Hikari Shinkansen
• Tokyo to Hiroshima: Around 4 hours using the Hikari or Sakura Shinkansen
• Tokyo to Nagano: Just 1.5 hours on the Hokuriku Shinkansen
• Osaka to Fukuoka: Roughly 2.5 hours on the Sakura Shinkansen

And where can’t I go?

The big gaps at the moment are in Shikoku (the fourth-largest island, just by Kyūshū) and almost all of Hokkaidō; if you want to explore the far north of the country, you’re probably better off flying to Sapporo and continuing from there.

How much does it cost?

The cost of Shinkansen travel varies depending on the distance, type of seat, and whether you opt for a reserved or non-reserved seat. Here's a general breakdown:

• Base fare: This is the basic cost of travel from one station to another. For shorter distances, it's about ¥20 per kilometer, decreasing to under ¥10 per kilometer for longer journeys.
• Limited express fee: This is an additional charge for using the Shinkansen. It ranges from about ¥800 for short trips to around ¥11,000 for the longest journeys.
• Seat reservation fee: If you want a guaranteed seat, you'll pay an additional fee of typically ¥320 to ¥720, depending on the season and demand.

To give you an idea, a one-way trip from Tokyo to Kyoto in an ordinary reserved seat costs approximately ¥14,170 as of 2024. The journey to Osaka is slightly more at around ¥14,650, while the longer trip from Tokyo to Fukuoka will set you back about ¥23,390. For those seeking extra comfort, Green Car (first-class) tickets are available at about a 30% premium over ordinary car tickets.

That said, you can sometimes snag deals on websites like Klook.

What's this JR Pass I keep hearing about?

 If you’re planning to use bullet trains frequently during your trip to Japan, the JR Pass could be a great option. There are passes for the whole country (starting at ¥29,110 for adults) or cheaper ones that cover only specific regions. It's a special ticket designed for foreign visitors on tourist visas, and it gives you unlimited travel on most JR trains, including the Shinkansen, for 7, 14, or 21 days.

How do I get tickets?

Booking a Shinkansen ticket is easier than ever now. No more struggling with complicated Japanese websites or waiting in long lines at the station. These days, you can use simple online platforms that make grabbing a seat super easy.

One of the best options is Klook, a travel booking platform that offers a wide range of Shinkansen tickets and rail passes, often at great prices thanks to their price guarantee. All you have to do is pick your route, date, and seat type on their app or website, pay for it, and you'll get a QR code. Once you're in Japan, just scan that code at a ticket machine to print your tickets — no need to line up at the ticket office.

Klook is great because it helps you to be flexible during your trip. They offer same-day or next-day bookings, which comes in handy when you are making last-minute plans. 

Tips for your trip

Thankfully, it’s all pretty straightforward. Head to the platform and line up by the door which matches your seat reservation. Wait for everyone to get off before you get on; at some stations, cleaning staff will board before you, and you should wait for them to finish up before getting on.

Eating and drinking

One of the best parts of Shinkansen travel is enjoying a meal while watching the scenery fly by. Many travelers grab an ekiben (station bento), which is a boxed meal that often features local specialties from either the station you’re leaving or one along the way. These meals are a real treat, offering well-prepared dishes that highlight the best of Japanese cuisine. 

Get the right ticket, and be on time!

When booking, think about which side of the train offers the best view. If you’re traveling from Tokyo to Kyoto or Osaka, try to sit on the right side for the famous view of Mount Fuji on clear days.

Lastly, remember that Shinkansen trains are super punctual. They leave exactly on time, so aim to be on the platform a few minutes early. The good news? Trains run frequently on major routes, so even if you miss one, another should be along soon

What’s the future of the bullet train?

Hopefully more trains, going further and faster. The world’s longest and deepest undersea tunnel was built from Aomori to Hakodate in 2016, and the line should reach Sapporo by 2030; 

Because apparently 275mph isn’t fast enough, new Maglev trains with current top test speeds of 375mph are going to be in use in the not-so-distant future. The name comes from “magnetic levitation”, and yes, they are real life hover trains. They will be wheeled out (pun intended) on a new line between Tokyo and Nagoya by 2027, continuing to Ōsaka by 2045.

A note for anyone slightly concerned at the thought of travelling so fast: since starting in 1964, the whole bullet train network has had a total of zero fatalities due to crashes or derailments. Yes, you read that right – zero.

Japan's bullet train system gives you a unique travel experience, offering speed, comfort, and exceptional reliability. 

By getting familiar with how the Shinkansen works and taking advantage of easy booking options like Klook, your journey can become one of the highlights of your trip—not just a way to get from place to place.

This article was made in partnership with Klook.com.