If you visit Japan, you should try the bullet train! In Japan, the bullet train is called Shinkansen. It is a fast, safe, and comfortable way to travel between cities.
In this guide, you will learn about the Shinkansen train, how to buy tickets, and the best way to enjoy your trip.
What is a Bullet Train?
A bullet train (Shinkansen train) is a high-speed train in Japan. It connects major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto.
The fastest trains can travel at 320 km/h (200 mph)! The Shinkansen is on time, clean, and very safe, making it a great choice for travelers.
Types of Bullet Trains in Japan
There are different types of Shinkansen trains in Japan. Some are very fast, while others stop at more stations.
| Train Name | Route | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Nozomi | Tokyo – Hakata | The fastest train, fewer stops |
| Hikari | Tokyo – Osaka | Slightly slower than Nozomi |
| Kodama | Tokyo – Osaka | Stops at all stations |
| Hayabusa | Tokyo – Hakodate(Hokkaido) | The fastest train in northern Japan |
| Kagayaki | Tokyo – Kanazawa | Connects Tokyo and Kanazawa quickly |
| Sakura | Osaka – Kagoshima | Connects western and southern Japan |
Seat Types: Reserved or Non-Reserved?
When you buy a Shinkansen ticket, you can choose:
- Reserved seat (指定席 / Shitei-seki) → Your seat is booked in advance.
- Non-reserved seat (自由席 / Jiyu-seki) → You can sit in any open seat.
For busy times like holidays, it is better to reserve a seat.
How to Buy Shinkansen Tickets
- Buy at the station – Use ticket machines or go to the JR ticket counter.
- Book online – Use JR’s website or apps like “SmartEX“.
- Use a Japan Rail Pass – If you are a tourist, you can buy a JR Pass to save money!
Seat Classes on the Shinkansen
There are three types of seats on the bullet train:
- Ordinary Class – Standard seats, clean and comfortable.
- Green Car – Business class, with more space and a quiet atmosphere.
- Gran Class – First class, with luxury seating, meals, and drinks included.
Enjoying the Bullet Train Experience
Try Ekiben (Train Bento Box)
Before riding the Shinkansen, buy a bento box (Ekiben) at the station. Each region has different types of Ekiben, so it’s a fun food experience!
Remember! Ekiben is not sold on the train, so make sure to buy one before boarding. Don’t forget to grab beer, tea, or some snacks for the ride too!
See Mount Fuji from the Train
If you take the Tokaido Shinkansen (Tokyo – Osaka route), you can see Mount Fuji from the window!
- The E seat is always the best choice to see Mount Fuji.
- Seats A–C are on the ocean side, while seats D–E are on the mountain side in both directions.
- The Shinkansen has five seats in a row: three on one side (A, B, C) and two on the other (D, E).
- E seats are next to the window on the mountain side, so book early to get the best view!
- The train does not turn around; instead, the seat direction changes, so E seats always face Mount Fuji whether you travel from Tokyo to Osaka or vice versa.
Best Timing to See Mount Fuji
If you are traveling on the Tokaido Shinkansen, plan your timing to get the best view of Mount Fuji from your E seat!
Tokyo → Osaka (Downward Route)
- 35 minutes after leaving Tokyo Station, the train passes Atami Station—start getting ready!
- Check the train’s information screen for station names to know when you are approaching.
- The best view comes right before and after passing Shin-Fuji Station—have your camera ready!
Osaka → Tokyo (Upward Route)
- Around 1 hour 40 minutes after leaving Shin-Osaka Station, the train passes Shizuoka Station.
- You will start to see glimpses of Mount Fuji after Shizuoka.
- 1 hour 45 minutes after departure, when passing Shin-Fuji Station, you get the best view—this is your photo moment!
How to Take the Best Photo of Mount Fuji from the Shinkansen
Want to capture the perfect shot of Mount Fuji from the bullet train? Here are some photography tips to avoid window reflections and ensure a great picture!
📸 Tip 1: Press Your Camera Lens Against the Window
- Whether using a DSLR or a smartphone, always place the lens directly against the glass.
- Even a small gap can cause window reflections to appear in your photo.
📸 Tip 2: Use Burst Mode
- The train moves fast! Switch to burst mode so you can take multiple shots.
- One of them might turn out to be the perfect, clear shot!
i think this is one of the best things i have ever seen pic.twitter.com/v0qw7nky9T
— shy fawkes (@butterbooter) January 4, 2024
FAQ
You can buy them at train stations, online, or through travel agencies. However, on holidays and during summer vacation, ticket offices often have long lines, so it’s better to buy tickets online in advance.
Yes! Many people enjoy Ekiben (bento boxes) while traveling.
For short trips (like Tokyo to Osaka), the Shinkansen is faster and easier than flying.