Shinkansen versus limited express
The shinkansen runs on dedicated high-speed tracks, with lines from Tokyo through Osaka to Fukuoka and further routes into northern Honshu, Hokkaido and Kyushu. Limited express trains run on conventional tracks but skip smaller stations, and you will often take one between an airport and the city or to sights the shinkansen does not reach. The tracks are different, but buying tickets and boarding work in much the same way, so once you understand the basics you can apply them anywhere in Japan.
A ticket comes in two parts
To ride the shinkansen or a limited express you need a base fare ticket for the journey itself plus an express ticket for the faster train. Bought together at a counter or machine, they come out either as two tickets or combined on one. Then you choose a seat type.
- Base fare ticket: the standard fare from origin to destination
- Express ticket: the charge for the faster train, varying by train and seat type
- Reserved seat: a specific train and seat, reassuring in busy periods
- Non-reserved seat: any free seat in the designated cars; if full, you stand
- Green Car: a premium car with roomier seats and an extra charge
Where to buy
Most reserved-seat ticket machines at stations offer several languages, and at staffed counters you can simply ask for the train and seat you want. Rail operators also run online booking so you can secure a seat in advance. If you use a rail pass for overseas visitors, some trains are covered while others need an extra charge, and coverage differs between passes, so always check the official terms. Whether you can board the shinkansen directly with a transit card also depends on the line and service; if you are unsure, buying a ticket is the safer choice.
One line, several kinds of train
On a single line, fast trains that stop only at major stations run alongside trains that call at every stop. The journey times differ noticeably, so if your destination is a small station, first check that your train actually stops there. Rather than insisting on the fastest service, it is more practical to choose a train at a convenient time with seats available. During holidays and cherry blossom season, some trains cut back non-reserved cars or run fully reserved, so reserve ahead at those times.
At the gates and on the platform
Once you know the flow of the station, it is straightforward even the first time.
- Shinkansen ticket gates are separate from regular gates
- If you have two tickets, insert them together, and collect them when they pop out
- Check the train name, departure time and platform number on the departure board
- Car numbers and queuing positions are marked on the platform floor and signs
- Non-reserved seating is limited to certain cars, so follow the signs and queue there
Luggage and seats
If you are travelling with a large suitcase, check the luggage rules first. On some lines, bags above a set size require you to reserve a seat that comes with a luggage space, and boarding without one can mean an extra charge. The size limits and fees can change, so see the official guidance. Cabin-sized bags fit on the overhead rack. Seats can be rotated so a group can face each other, but it is good manners to turn them back afterwards. Before reclining, a quick word to the person behind you is appreciated.
Etiquette on board
The shinkansen is treated as a quiet place to rest. Keep to the basics and you will have no trouble.
- Take phone calls in the vestibule between cars
- Keep your phone on silent and use earphones for videos
- Eating a station bento is perfectly normal, but avoid strong-smelling food
- Sort your rubbish into the bins in the vestibule
- Smoking is not allowed on board
Common mistakes and final checks
The most common trap is a city whose shinkansen station has a different name. Osaka's shinkansen station is Shin-Osaka, and Yokohama's is Shin-Yokohama. Trains to and from Tokyo also stop at Shinagawa, so use whichever is closer to where you are staying. Japanese trains stop only briefly and the doors close quickly, so have your bags ready before your station. Platforms occasionally change shortly before departure, so watch both the announcements and the board. If a typhoon or heavy snow stops or badly delays services, refund and change rules apply; ask at a station counter. For fares and journey times, the rail operator's official information is always the most accurate source.
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