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4.6🚅 Shinkansen: Complete Guide for Japan’s Super Express Train
What is the Shinkansen? Japan's superexpress train, the Shinkansen, is an essential mode of transportation that effortlessly takes you anywhere in Japan. As the Shinkansen, also known as the “Japanese bullet train,” operates at over 200km/h and up to 320km/h (bullet train speed) on some routes, you can cover huge distances quickly.
From Tokyo to Kyoto, for example, a 500km journey can take only about 2 hours on the Shinkansen. With its high reliability and frequent departures, the Shinkansen is undoubtedly the most comfortable and convenient means of Japan train travel.
Is Booking Shinkansen Tickets Easy? Yes, with Omio! You can search, book, and purchase a Shinkansen ticket on Omio in your preferred language. With a clear view of seat availability, Omio makes booking the Shinkansen so much easier for you. For a Shinkansen route overview, check out the Shinkansen map below before you book your journey on the Omio app.
With this Shinkansen essential guide, let’s find out about Shinkansen seats, luggage space booking, schedules, routes, and great deals that save you trouble and money.
Book Shinkansen tickets with Omio
Omio partners with over 1,000 trusted operators globally, offering reliable support for all your Japan transportation options, which reassures you, especially when travelling in unfamiliar places. Our dedicated customer support team is available 24 hours a day to assist you. Start your planning with Omio and get ready for the unforgettable trip to Japan.
- Official & trusted: Buy with confidence with Omio, an official Japan Railways partner.
- Unlimited train rides with flexibility: Get the Japan Rail Pass with Omio and make the most of your train trip nationwide.
- Compare the best options: Wherever the destination is, search and book your train tickets on Omio’s easy platform. Also, you can compare other options such as buses, flights and ferries all at once.
- Advance planning: Reserve tickets up to 12 months ahead. Get peace of mind.
- Transparent choices: Booking seats is easy with a clear view of Shinkansen classes and prices.
- Tourist-friendly: Book on our easy-to-use app in your language and currency.
- Premium customer support: Get the best customer support in multiple languages.
Omio and Japan Railways Omio and Japan Railways (JR), the largest Japanese train operator and provider of the Japan Rail Pass, have entered into an official partnership. With its group companies, JR operates Japan’s world-famous public transportation system. Its vast network covers Japan, from scenic local trains to the high-speed Shinkansen.
The Japan Rail Pass vs Individual Ticket
Are you planning to travel to more than 3 cities across Japan, or to pivot around one or two cities?
- Japan Rail Pass: If you plan to visit as many locations as possible, the Japan Rail Pass is highly recommended. It’s a pass that lets you ride most JR trains, including the Shinkansen. It’s the most convenient and price-worthy ticket for you.
- Individual Tickets: If you are staying in one region and not travelling long distances, it’s better to purchase tickets individually. You can search for and buy Shinkansen tickets to any destination in Japan in your language on Omio.
Travel as much as you want: Japan Rail Pass The Japan Rail Pass (JRP) gives you unlimited rides on JR trains, including most Shinkansen bullet trains, for 7, 14, or 21 consecutive days. Hop from neon-lit Tokyo to serene temples in Kyoto, Hiroshima's coastal shrine, or Mount Fuji – all on a single pass. It’s the easiest way to explore Japan’s cities and countryside without juggling separate tickets or schedules.
Why the Japan Rail Pass is great for travellers:
- It allows unlimited JR train rides nationwide with great flexibility.
- It can save up significantly, e.g., 22% off for the “Golden Route” for 7 days.
- Free seat reservations.
- Most Shinkansen are included (Nozomi and Mizuho require an add-on).
- Airport lines like Narita Express (N'EX) (from Narita airport) and Tokyo Monorail (from Haneda airport) are included.
How to get a Japan Rail Pass:
- Before you travel: Order an Exchange Order. You can order it with Omio. Once your order is placed, a physical order will be shipped to you.
- In Japan: Bring this order to the ticket office at the stations or airports to get the actual Japan Rail Pass. Don’t forget to bring your passport with you!
How to use Japan Rail Pass: With the pass, you can go through the automatic ticket gates. When you’re taking a non-reserved seat or a local train, just insert your pass into the gate and don’t forget to pick it up on the other side. Order the Japan Rail Pass with Omio Here.
🎟️ How to Book, Ride & Manage Tickets
Searching and booking Shinkansen tickets is so much easier with Omio. You can even reserve seats for both ordinary cars and green cars.
Booking Shinkansen tickets:
- Search Your Route: Enter your departure and arrival cities (like Tokyo to Osaka or Nagoya to Kyoto), along with your desired travel dates, into the Omio search bar.
- Compare Options: Browse a variety of travel options and compare operators, departure times, and prices.
- Secure Your Booking: Select your preferred ticket and proceed to a secure payment gateway. Omio accepts multiple currencies.
- Reserve your seat (optional): Get peace of mind beforehand. Select your seats and secure them.
- Redeem your tickets: A QR code for your ticket will be sent directly to your email and stored conveniently in the Omio app, ready to scan at a ticket machine at the station in Japan to get the Shinkansen tickets.
How to read a Shinkansen ticket
To get on the Shinkansen, you’ll need a basic fare ticket and a super express ticket. If you reserve a seat, you’ll get a super express ticket with your car and seat number printed.
How to get on the Shinkansen
- Ticket Gates: Once you’ve got the physical tickets, go through the automated ticket gate. Let both the basic fare ticket and the super express ticket go through the gate machine, then pick them up on the other side.
- Find your Platform: Your platform is shown on the large electronic boards. Find the number and go to the platform.
- Find your Car: At the platform, find signs showing where each car stops; look for painted numbers on the platform floor for your car number on the ticket.
- Boarding: Once you settle in your seat, the train conductor might come around and check your ticket.
Shinkansen Seat Types
The Shinkansen trains offer two classes:
- Ordinary (Standard): Great comfort and value, with clean 3+2 seating on most Shinkansen trains. Non-reserved seats are available in these cars.
- Green (First Class): Quieter cabins, wider 2+2 seats, and extra legroom. Perfect for long journeys or busy seasons. All seats are reserved in Green cars.
Luggage in Shinkansen
In general, you’re allowed to bring two pieces of luggage with you besides your personal belongings. The overhead storage and space around the seats are available for everybody.
Oversized Baggage Rule: If your suitcase is larger than 160 cm in total (H x L x W), you must use either:
- Oversized Baggage Area: Located behind the rear seats of Shinkansen bullet train cars and requires a reservation. You can reserve your luggage space here.
- Oversized Baggage Compartment: Located between Shinkansen train cars by the washroom. These are dedicated luggage storage spots but operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
Shinkansen Cancellation and Refund on Omio
Travel plans in Japan can change. The good news is that you can cancel your Shinkansen tickets more easily with Omio.
1) Can you cancel a Shinkansen ticket? Yes—most Shinkansen tickets can be cancelled and refunded on Omio, subject to a fee.
- 2 days before departure: Cancellation is possible with a 15% fee.
- Less than 2 days before departure: Cancellation is not possible.
- If the train is cancelled by JR: Refund is usually available without a fee. (In case of weather, earthquakes, etc., you’ll be fully refunded).
2) Can I change a Shinkansen ticket? Yes! You can change your Shinkansen ticket once before departure with Omio. Go to your account and simply change your ticket.
3) What if you miss your Shinkansen?
- Non-reserved ticket: You can often ride a later train on the same route (non-reserved cars) within the valid period.
- Reserved ticket: The reservation usually becomes invalid. You may still be able to board later trains in non-reserved seats, but check with a ticket counter.
4) How to get a refund With Omio, simply open your booking confirmation, select Cancel / Refund, and follow the instructions.
🕰️ Shinkansen Routes, Timetables & Prices
The most popular Tokyo to Kyoto route, the Tokaido Line, is one of 10 Shinkansen lines operating across Japan. Below is the Shinkansen timetable and ticket price list for the most popular routes.
Note: Prices vary by seasonality. JRP covers Hikari/Kodama; Nozomi requires a fee.
| Route | Train Type | Time (Fastest) | Frequency | Non-Reserved | Reserved | Green Car |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tokyo → Kyoto | Nozomi | ~2h 15m | 6–10/hr | ¥13,000–14,000 | ¥14,000–15,000 | ¥19,000–21,000 |
| Tokyo → Osaka | Nozomi | ~2h 30m | 6–10/hr | ¥13,500–14,500 | ¥14,500–15,500 | ¥20,000–22,000 |
| Tokyo → Nagoya | Nozomi | ~1h 40m | 6–10/hr | ¥10,000–11,500 | ¥11,000–12,500 | ¥15,000–17,000 |
| Tokyo → Hiroshima | Nozomi | ~4h 00m | 2–4/hr | ¥18,000–20,000 | ¥19,000–21,000 | ¥26,000–30,000 |
| Tokyo → Fukuoka | Nozomi | ~5h 00m | 1–2/hr | ¥22,000–24,000 | ¥23,000–25,000 | ¥31,000–35,000 |
| Tokyo → Kanazawa | Kagayaki | ~2h 30m | 1–2/hr | ¥13,000–14,500 | ¥14,000–15,500 | ¥19,000–22,000 |
| Tokyo → Nagano | Kagayaki | ~1h 30m | 1–2/hr | ¥7,000–8,500 | ¥8,000–9,500 | ¥11,000–13,000 |
| Tokyo → Sendai | Hayabusa | ~1h 30m | 3–6/hr | ¥10,000–11,500 | ¥11,000–12,500 | ¥15,000–18,000 |
| Tokyo → Hakodate | Hayabusa | ~4h 00m | 1–2/hr | ¥22,000–24,000 | ¥23,000–25,000 | ¥31,000–35,000 |
Popular Shinkansen Routes in Detail
Tokyo to Kyoto Shinkansen
The Tokyo to Kyoto train covers approximately 514 km and takes 2h 9min to 3h 38min on Shinkansen express trains.
- Services:
- Prices: Unreserved 13,320 yen / Reserved 13,970 yen / Green Car 18,840 yen.
- Note: This is the Tokaido line. Advance booking is highly recommended.
Tokyo to Osaka Shinkansen
The Tokyo to Osaka train route covers 552 km.
- Services:
- Prices: Unreserved 13,870 yen / Reserved 14,520 yen / Green Car 19,390 yen.
Tokyo to Nagoya Shinkansen
The Tokyo to Nagoya train is fast and efficient, taking about 94 minutes on the Nozomi.
- Services: Nozomi (2 stops), Hikari (5 stops), Kodama (11 stops).
- Prices: Unreserved 10,560 yen / Reserved 11,000 yen / Green Car 14,760 yen.
Tokyo to Hiroshima Shinkansen
The Tokyo to Hiroshima train efficiently connects western and eastern Japan (821 km).
- Duration: 3h 55min – 5h 30min.
- Prices: Unreserved 18,380 yen / Reserved 18,810 yen / Green Car 27,050 yen.
- Pass Info: JR Pass covers Hikari/Kodama. Nozomi requires 6,500 yen fee.
Tokyo to Fukuoka (Hakata) Shinkansen
One of the longest routes (1,069 km) connecting Kyushu.
- Duration: 5h – 7h 30min.
- Prices: Unreserved 22,220 yen / Reserved 22,650 yen / Green Car 31,390 yen.
- Pass Info: Nozomi requires 8,140 yen fee.
💡 Shinkansen Travel Tips
To make your journey even smoother, here are the most useful Shinkansen travel tips:
1) Book early during peak seasons Shinkansen seats can sell out quickly during Golden Week (late April–early May), Obon (mid-August), and New Year. Book up to 12 months in advance on Omio.
2) Reserved vs Non-reserved seats
- Reserved: Specific seat number. Recommended for families and luggage travellers.
- Non-reserved: First-come, first-served. Cheaper, but can be crowded.
3) Arrive at the station early Recommended: 20 minutes before departure (regular) or 30 minutes (large stations like Tokyo / Shin-Osaka). This gives you time to buy an Ekiben lunch box!
4) Check your platform and car number Platforms can have multiple trains departing. Note the line, train name (Nozomi/Hikari), and departure time carefully.
5) Choose the best seat (Mt. Fuji view) If you travel on the Tokaido Shinkansen:
- Tokyo to Kyoto / Tokyo to Osaka: Book Seat E (Right side).
- Kyoto to Tokyo / Osaka to Tokyo: Book Seat A (Left side).
6) Understand the luggage rules If your suitcase is over 160 cm (H x L x W), reserve an Oversized Baggage Area.
7) Use coin lockers or luggage delivery Use luggage delivery services (takkyubin) to send bags between hotels. Kyoto Station has counters for same-day delivery to accommodations.
8) Keep quiet: Shinkansen manners
- Keep phone calls to a minimum (silent mode).
- Use headphones.
- Keep luggage out of aisles.
9) Use free time onboard wisely Trains offer clean toilets, air conditioning, and sometimes Wi-Fi.
10) What to do if you miss your Shinkansen Don't panic. If you have a non-reserved ticket, hop on the next train. If you have a reserved ticket, your reservation is invalid, but you can usually board a later train in a non-reserved seat.
❓ Shinkansen FAQ
You can buy Shinkansen tickets on Omio, at JR ticket counters, or at station ticket machines. Search and book Shinkansen tickets on Omio in your preferred language now!
You can book Shinkansen tickets via official JR booking services or ticket platforms like Omio. Secure your seats earlier, as you can book up to 12 months in advance with Omio.
Reserved seats guarantee a specific seat number. Non-reserved seats are first-come, first-served and may be crowded on busy days.
Arrive at the station about 20–30 minutes before departure, especially at large stations like Tokyo Station or Shin-Osaka.
Yes, the Japan Rail Pass covers most Shinkansen routes. However, Nozomi and Mizuho trains require an additional express fee.
Usually, Nozomi is not covered by the standard nationwide JR Pass. You have to pay an additional express fee. Always confirm coverage before you travel.
The Shinkansen typically runs at bullet train speeds of 300–320 km/h, depending on the line and train type.
Shinkansen fares depend on the route and class. Tokyo to Kyoto is typically around ¥13,000–¥15,000 one-way in Ordinary class.
Yes, but oversized baggage (over 160cm total dimensions) requires a special reservation. If you travel with large luggage, reserve early.
You may board a later train in non-reserved seats (route-dependent). If you have a reserved seat, the reservation usually becomes invalid.
In many cases, yes—especially 2 days before departure. A handling fee (approx 15%) may apply.
On the Tokyo to Kyoto / Tokyo to Osaka route, Mt. Fuji is usually best seen from the right side (Seat E). On the return trip, choose the left side (Seat A).
Some Shinkansen trains offer Wi-Fi, but availability and performance vary.
Yes. Food and drinks are allowed, and many travellers enjoy ekiben (station bento boxes) during the ride.
Yes. The Shinkansen is considered one of the safest train systems in the world.