Everything You Need to Know About Riding the Bullet Train

A white Shinkansen bullet train speeding in front of snow-capped Mount Fuji with cherry blossoms in the foreground. Tips

The Shinkansen is the fastest and most convenient way to travel across Japan. However, the system can be confusing for first-time visitors. Here is your simple guide to mastering the bullet train.

1. Types of Trains: Speed Matters

Not all Shinkansen are the same. On the main line (Tokaido/Sanyo Line) connecting Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima, there are three main types:

  • Nozomi (The Fastest): Stops only at major stations. It is the best choice for long distances. Note: The Japan Rail Pass requires an extra fee for this train.
  • Hikari (The Medium): Stops at more stations than Nozomi. It is slightly slower but fully covered by the Japan Rail Pass.
  • Kodama (The Local): Stops at every single station. It takes a long time, so avoid this for long trips unless you want to visit smaller towns.
Diagram comparing Tokaido Shinkansen train types from Tokyo to Shin-Osaka. It shows 'Nozomi' as the fastest (2h 22m) with limited stops, 'Hikari' as medium speed (2h 54m), and 'Kodama' stopping at every station (3h 54m).

2. Reserved vs. Non-Reserved Seats

  • Reserved Seats (Shitei-seki): You are guaranteed a seat. We highly recommend this if you are traveling with family or during rush hour.
  • Non-Reserved Seats (Jiyu-seki): These are cheaper, but it is first-come, first-served. If the train is full, you might have to stand for the whole trip.
Split illustration comparing Shinkansen seating options. The left side features a happy traveler sitting comfortably with a bento box under the label 'Guaranteed Seat' (Reserved). The right side shows a stressed traveler standing in a crowded carriage with luggage under the label 'First-come, First-served' (Non-Reserved).

3. The “Oversized Baggage” Rule (Very Important!)

If you have large luggage, you must be careful. Since May 2020, passengers with baggage where the total dimensions (height + width + depth) are between 160cm and 250cm must reserve a specific seat called “Seat with Oversized Baggage Area.”

If you bring large bags without this reservation, you will be charged a 1,000 yen penalty fee and may be asked to move.

Diagram explaining the Shinkansen Oversized Baggage Rule. The left shows a suitcase with total dimensions (height + width + depth) between 160cm and 250cm. The right shows the luggage stored in the designated space behind the last row of seats, labeled 'Seat with Oversized Baggage Area (Reservation Required)'.

4. How to Buy Tickets

  • Ticket Machines: Available at all stations. Look for the button that says “English.”
Illustration of a standard JR ticket machine. The screen highlights the 'English' language button, showing international travelers how to switch the language interface to buy tickets easily.
  • Ticket Counters (Midori-no-madoguchi): Go here if you want to talk to a person.
Illustration of a 'Midori-no-madoguchi' (JR Ticket Counter). A traveler is speaking with a station attendant at a counter to buy Shinkansen tickets, highlighting the option for personal assistance.
  • Online (Smart EX): You can book tickets on your smartphone and link them to your IC Card (Suica/Pasmo) to tap and go.

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