What is the Shinkansen(Bullet Train)?

The Shinkansen is the Japanese bullet train, a high-speed railway network spanning the length and breadth of Japan's four major islands. Famed for its punctuality and speed, Shinkansen reaches up to 200 mph (320 km/h), with many different lines providing passengers across Japan with renowned Shinkansen speed and comfort.

Shinkansen bullet train vs regular JR trains: key differences

While Shinkansen is Japan's high-speed bullet train service, you'll also find regular trains in the JR network. These are local trains primarily used for city commuting or day trips, while the Shinkansen is the best option for long-distance travel between major cities.

You'll find the key differences between the services in the table below.

FeatureShinkansen Bullet TrainsRegular JR Trains
Distance
Long-distance (Intercity)
Short-medium (Local/Regional)
Speed
Ultra-fast (up to 186 mph/300 km/h)
Standard speed (60–80 mph/80–130 km/h)
Train Service Types

Nozomi (fastest express)

Hikari (second-fastest)

Kodama (every stop)

(other lines: Hayabusa.. etc.)

Express

Rapid

Limited Express

Local (every stop)

Tickets
Basic fare + Limited Express ticket
Basic fare (IC Card [for local/urban travel] or Paper ticket)
Best for
long-distance travel between major cities
local commuting, or day trips.

Shinkansen train services: Nozomi vs Hikari vs Kodama

Nozomi, Hikari and Kodama are the three train service types that run along the Tokaido and Sanyo Shinkansen lines. The main difference between these three services is essentially the number of stops they make. From Tokyo to Osaka, for example, Nozomi makes the fewest stops, completing the journey in just 2h 30m. The Hikari service takes 2h 50m for the same journey while Kodama stops at every station on the route, taking about 4h.

FeatureNozomi ShinkansenHikari ShinkansenKodama Shinkansen
Speed
Fastest

(Up to 186 mph/300 km/h)

Semi-Fast

(Up to 186 mph/300 km/h)

(Up to 177 mph/285 km/h)

Stop Frequency
Major cities only
Major & key stations
All stations
JR Pass Coverage
Extra ticket required
Fully covered
Fully covered
Seat Booking
Reserved (Non-reserved available off-peak*)
Reserved & Non-reserved
Reserved & Non-reserved
Best For
Time-critical travel
JR Pass holders
Flexible travel / Smaller stops
*Note: Nozomi trains typically offer unreserved seats, but during peak travel seasons (e.g., Golden Week, Obon, New Year holidays), all seats must be reserved, and unreserved tickets only allow you to stand.

Popular Shinkansen Routes

Shinkansen Tokyo to Osaka

Shinkansen Tokyo to Osaka

Train ticket price: £68.75
Train journey time: 2 hours 27 minutes

The Shinkansen route from Tokyo to Osaka is a popular journey along Japan's Golden Route, with the scenic highlight being the view of Mount Fuji about 40 to 45 minutes into the journey. Reserve a seat on the right-hand side for the best view!

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Shinkansen Tokyo to Kyoto

Shinkansen Tokyo to Kyoto

Train ticket price: £66.51
Train journey time: 2 hours 11 minutes

There are two stations in Japan's capital serving Shinkansen trains from Tokyo to Kyoto: Tokyo Station or Shinagawa Station. Tokyo Station is normally the first stop on the line, so you may have a better chance of nabbing an unreserved seat here, though Shinagawa is more compact and easier to navigate with luggage.

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Shinkansen Osaka to Kyoto

Shinkansen Osaka to Kyoto

Train ticket price: £5.35
Train journey time: 26 minutes

The Shinkansen Osaka to Kyoto bullet train departs from Shin-Osaka station, meaning you will need to take a metro or local train transfer if starting in central Osaka – e.g. from Namba or Umeda. The Shinkansen halves the journey duration of regular trains, taking just 13–15 minutes compared to 25–30 minutes.

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Shinkansen Kyoto to Hiroshima

Shinkansen Kyoto to Hiroshima

Train ticket price: £51.67
Train journey time: 1 hour 39 minutes

The Shinkansen from Kyoto to Hiroshima is a swift journey with highly regular departures, especially on Nozomi services. Remember, if you are travelling from Kyoto to Hiroshima with a JR Pass, Nozomi bullet trains are not covered – you will need a separate supplementary ticket. If you decide to go by Hikari or Sakura services, you may need to transfer at Shin-Osaka or Shin-Kobe station.

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Shinkansen Nagoya to Tokyo

Shinkansen Nagoya to Tokyo

Train ticket price: £52.42
Train journey time: 1 hour 36 minutes

The bullet train from Nagoya to Tokyo covers the 212-mile (341 km) distance in as little as an hour and a half. If you want to take the Shinkansen from Nagoya to Tokyo Haneda Airport, you will need to transfer to a roughly 20-minute commuter train at Shinagawa Station to continue your journey to the airport.

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Shinkansen Tokyo to Kanazawa

Shinkansen Tokyo to Kanazawa

Train ticket price: £75.07
Train journey time: 2 hours 31 minutes

The Tokyo to Kanazawa route is part of the Hokuriku Shinkansen line, which is completely covered by the JR Pass. The journey offers views of stunning mountainscapes, especially between Nagano and Toyama.

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Popular Shinkansen Stations

  • Tokyo Station

    Tokyo Station

    Tokyo Station is Japan's central hub for the Shinkansen network. You can reach Kyoto/Osaka and the Tohoku and Hokkaido regions from here. Shinkansen platforms are all located on the East Side (Yaesu) of the station.

    Address: 1 Chome Marunouchi, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 100-0005, Japan

    Address: 1 Chome Marunouchi, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 100-0005, Japan

    Shinkansen to Tokyo Station
  • Kyoto Station

    Kyoto Station

    Kyoto Station is the only Shinkansen station in Kyoto and operates the Tokaido-Sanyo bullet train line connecting to Tokyo, Osaka and Hiroshima. Shinkansen platforms are on the south (Hachijo) side of the 3rd floor.

    Address: Higashishiokoji Kamadonocho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, Japan

    Shinkansen to Kyoto Station
  • Shin-Osaka Station

    Shin-Osaka Station

    Three Shinkansen lines run through Shin-Osaka Station: the Tokaido, Kyushu and Sanyo lines, connecting to Tokyo, Hiroshima and Fukuoka, respectively. Access to Shinkansen trains is via South or Central Gates on the 3rd floor.

    Address: 5 Chome-16-1 Nishinakajima, Yodogawa Ward, Osaka, 532-0011, Japan

    Shinkansen to Shin-Osaka Station
  • Shin-Yokohama Station

    Shin-Yokohama Station

    Shin-Yokohama station connects Tokyo to western cities, such as Tokyo, Nagoya and Osaka. Shinkansen platforms are on the 3rd floor, and you can transfer by local rail to Yokohoma Station in about 10 minutes.

    Address: 2 Chome Shinyokohama, Kohoku Ward, Yokohama, Kanagawa 222-0026, Japan

    Shinkansen to Shin-Yokohama Station
  • Hiroshima Station

    Hiroshima Station

    Hiroshima Station is a key stop on the Sanyo Shinkansen line, connecting to major cities like Tokyo, Osaka and destinations on Kyushu. The Shinkansen area is located on the 3rd floor.

    Address: 2-37 Matsubaracho, Minami Ward, Hiroshima, 732-0822, Japan

    Shinkansen to Hiroshima Station
  • Shinagawa Station

    Shinagawa Station

    Shinagawa is Tokyo's second Shinkansen station and is quick and easy to navigate. Bullet trains from here connect to Nagoya, Osaka and Fukuoka. Shinkansen gates are located inside the JR concourse closer to the East Side (Konan).

    Address: 3 Chome-26-27 Takanawa, Minato City, Tokyo 108-0074, Japan

    Shinkansen to Shinagawa Station

Travelling on the Shinkansen with a JR Pass

The JR Pass is a travel pass that allows visitors to Japan to take unlimited journeys on the JR Network, from Shinkansen lines to local buses. It is a great option for passengers who want to cover high distances on their trip to Japan. Discover all the details on the JR Pass and network policy below.

Shinkansen validity on the JR Pass

The National JR Pass covers travel on all Shinkansen lines across Japan. On most train services, you don't need to pay any extra fees to travel on bullet trains when you have a JR Pass, which is not the case when travelling with regular paper tickets or IC cards. This makes travelling with a JR Pass a highly convenient option for passengers who want to cover lots of distance in a short amount of time while in Japan.

Regional passes for Shinkansen travel

If you're planning on sticking to one region during your stay in Japan, a regional JR pass is a great option. This can be an affordable way to still benefit from unlimited Shinkansen rides.

Some example of regional JR passes valid on Shinkansen trains include the JR East-South Hokkaido Rail Pass for travel between Tokyo, Sendai and Sapporo; the JR Tokyo-Wide Pass for travel within the desingated greater Kanto area; and the JR West All Area Pass for trabel on the Sanyo and Hokuriku Shinkansen lines connecting major cities like Osaka, Kyoto and Hiroshima.

Exception for Nozomi and Mizuho Shinkansen

Although the JR Pass does not incur a supplementary fee on most Shinkansen lines, there are two exceptions. On Nozomi and Mizuhu services (the fastest services on the Tokaido–Sanyo and Sanyo–Kyushu routes respectively), JR Pass holders must purchase an additional ticket before boarding.

Shinkansen seat reservations with a JR Pass

Advance seat reservaions are required to sit in a reserved car. Luckily, JR Pass holders can make Shinkansen seat reservations for free at ticket machines and ticket offices, where they will receive a seat reservation ticket indicating the seat number.

Shinkansen seat classes & reservations

In Japan, bullet trains—known as Shinkansen—are normally divided into two main classes: Ordinary (standard) and Green (first). Some trains have an extra Gran Class (luxury). Exact features vary by operator. Here's what to expect:

Ordinary Car (standard)

Ordinary Car (standard)

  • 2+3 seating2+3 seating
  • Reserved or Non-Reserved seatsReserved or Non-Reserved seats
  • Standard comfort and supportStandard comfort and support
  • Power outletsPower outlets
  • Free Wi-FiFree Wi-Fi
  • Toilets availableToilets available
  • Luggage storageLuggage storage
Green Car (first class)

Green Car (first class)

  • 2+2 seating2+2 seating
  • Reserved seatsReserved seats
  • Spacious with wide seats and extra legroomSpacious with wide seats and extra legroom
  • Power outletsPower outlets
  • Free Wi-FiFree Wi-Fi
  • Restrooms availableRestrooms available
  • Personal reading lightsPersonal reading lights
  • Quieter, premium atmosphereQuieter, premium atmosphere
  • Perfect for business travellers and those seeking a more relaxing journeyPerfect for business travellers and those seeking a more relaxing journey
Gran Class (luxury business class)

Gran Class (luxury business class)

  • 1+2 seating1+2 seating
  • Ultra spacious and reclining leather seatsUltra spacious and reclining leather seats
  • Power outletsPower outlets
  • Free Wi-FiFree Wi-Fi
  • Complimentary water, snacks, and wet towels (*Not available on "GranClass (No Beverage or Light Meal Service)" trains)Complimentary water, snacks, and wet towels (*Not available on "GranClass (No Beverage or Light Meal Service)" trains)
  • Dedicated attendant service on most servicesDedicated attendant service on most services
  • Luxury amenities like slippersLuxury amenities like slippers
  • More privacy and spaceMore privacy and space
  • Top choice for luxury. Only available on certain lines (like Hokuriku).Top choice for luxury. Only available on certain lines (like Hokuriku).

Choosing between Reserved and Non-Reserved

Reserved seats
  • Slightly more expensive but guarantee you a seat.
  • Ideal for families and groups travelling at peak season and wanting to sit together
Non-Reserved seats
  • Allow you to board any train but without a guaranteed seat
  • Seating is first-come, first-served in designated carriages.
Top tips
  • Choose Reserved seats if you don't want to stand
  • Recommended for popular routes like Tokyo to Kyoto and at popular times of year

Shinkansen baggage allowance

Shinkansen luggage policies can vary slightly by line, but baggage allowance is uniform across all Shinkansen routes. If you're travelling with oversized luggage, you'll need to review the Shinkansen luggage rules a bit more closely.

Shinkansen baggage allowance

Standard luggage allowance

  • Passengers may bring up to 2 pieces of luggage for no additional fee (not including personal items like handbags, umbrellas).
  • Each item must weigh 30 kg or less.
  • Total luggage dimensions must not exceed 250 cm.
  • Bags with total dimensions up to 160 cm can be placed in at your feet, in the overhead racks or in the dedicated luggage area.

Oversized baggage

Baggage with total dimensions between 161 cm and 250 cm (height + width + depth) are considered oversized baggage. Passengers with oversized baggage must reserve an oversized baggage seat on lines between some major cities (same price as regular reserved seat). These seats are usually found at the last row of each carriage, and oversized bags can be placed in the space behind your seat. Travelling without a reservation for this luggage space can result in a fine on some lines.

Shinkansen luggage tips

  • If you need oversized baggage space, make sure you book your seat early, as they are limited in number and often sell out during busy seasons.
  • Green Class (i.e. First Class) carriages usually include extra space for luggage, which is particularly helpful in peak months like May, August and December to early January.
  • Bicycles must be folded or disassembled and stored in a bike bag.
  • Luggage forwarding services - such as Luggage Express - can have your luggage delivered from your departure hotel to your arrival hotel so you can travel light.

Shinkansen child tickets

There are three categories of Shinkansen child tickets, each with different pricing and age limits. Consult the different ticket categories below.

CategoryAge GroupFare Price
Adult ticket
12+ years old
100% (Full Price)
Child
6 – 11 years old
50% (Half Price)
Infant
1 – 5 years old
Free
Baby
Under 1 year old
Free

When you need to buy a child ticket for an infant

Infants (1 to 5 years) and babies (under 1 year) generally travel free on Shinkansen trains, except in some specific situations as follows:

  • When they need their own seat: If your infant is occupying their own reserved seat - rather than sitting on your lap - then you must buy them a Child Ticket.
  • When you're traveling with three infants: One fare-paying passenger can be accompanied by up to two infants for free. For three or more accompanying infants, a Child fare is required for the third and subsequent infants.
  • When traveling alone: Infants traveling unaccompanied (rare for tourists, but a rule nonetheless) requires a Child ticket.

Reserved seat prices for children: Ordinary, Green Car and Gran Class

If your kid needs their own reserved seat, a charge will apply for their seat. This will vary depending on the carriage class:

  • Ordinary Car: A 50% charge of the total fare applies for Children's reserved seats (ages 6-11).
  • Green Car & Gran Class: The Luxury Surcharge for Green and Gran Class does not have a child discount. You must pay the full adult rate for children's seats.

How to book and use Japan train tickets with Trip.com

Search for trains

STEP 1

Search for trains

Enter your origin and destination, select your travel dates, and number of passengers. Add a return date if needed to see Shinkansen schedules on Trip.com.

Select your departure and seat class

STEP 2

Select your departure and seat class

Pick your departure time and choose Ordinary or Green Car class. Click through and complete the passenger details in the form.

Pay securely

STEP 3

Pay securely

Complete your booking and pay in your chosen currency with secure payment methods, including credit/debit cards, Apple Pay, PayPal, and Google Pay.

Receive your QR code

STEP 04

Receive your QR code

Receive your e-tickets and itinerary details via email or through the Trip.com app. Confirmation is instant as soon as payment is complete.

Enter the station

STEP 05

Enter the station

For most journeys, you can go through the ticket gates by scanning your QR code. If needed, you can easily print tickets at the ticket machine.

Board the train

STEP 06

Board the train

Scan your QR code or insert your paper ticket into the barriers to access the platforms and board the train.

FAQs about Shinkansen

Is Trip.com an official partner?

Yes, Trip.com is an authorised Shinkansen partner that provides authentic tickets and guaranteed bookings directly through official Japan Rail systems.

How far in advance can I book Shinkansen tickets on Trip.com?

Advance Shinkansen tickets can be booked up to 90 days before travel date on Trip.com. Making an advance booking guarantees you can travel at your preferred times and in the seats of your choosing, which is especially valuable when travelling during the busy months.

How do I collect my Shinkansen tickets after booking on Trip.com?

For most routes, you can scan your Trip.com QR code directly at the gate before boarding. For some routes, a route-specific guide will be sent to your indicated email address after booking. This will explain how to proceed with collecting your Shinkansen tickets. Usually, the Shinkansen ticket exchange process involves scanning the QR you receive at a green 'Reserved Seats' ticket machine or showing to staff at the JR Ticket Office to receive your physical Shinkansen ticket.

How fast does a Shinkansen (bullet train) go?

The top speed of Shinkansen bullet trains is 200 mph (320 km/h), although this varies depending on the line and train model.

What is the difference between Nozomi, Hikari, and Kodama trains?

Nozomi, Hikari and Kodama are different bullet train services that differ in their stop frequency. Nozomi is the express service that makes the fewest stops, allowing for fastest journey times, while Hikari makes slightly more stops and Kodama stops at every station on the Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen line.

What are the different seat classes on the Shinkansen?

There are three tiers of seating on Shinkansen: Ordinary, Green and Gran Class. Ordinary represents standard/economy class, the Green Car is equivalent to business class while Gran Class is the luxury, VIP First Class option. Gran Class is limited to select Shinkansen lines.

Can I eat and drink on the Shinkansen?

Yes, you can absolutely eat and drink on Shinkansen bullet trains. In fact, it is part of the experience. Specific ready lunches called Ekiben are even sold at Japanese train stations for consumption on board.