Japan's shinkansen bullet trains are one of the country's genuinely remarkable achievements: fast, punctual, comfortable, and running since 1964. For travellers, they're the backbone of intercity transport. The Tokaido Shinkansen from Tokyo to Osaka travels 515km in as little as 2 hours 22 minutes — faster and more comfortable than any comparable domestic flight once airport procedures are factored in.
The Network
The main shinkansen lines run from Tokyo in multiple directions. The Tokaido/Sanyo line goes west through Nagoya, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, and Hakata (Fukuoka). The Tohoku line goes north to Sendai, Morioka, and connects to Hokkaido via the Seikan Tunnel. The Hokuriku line links Tokyo to Kanazawa and Fukui. The Joetsu and Yamagata lines serve the Japan Sea coast and Tohoku respectively.
Train Types: Nozomi, Hikari, Kodama
On the Tokaido/Sanyo line, three service levels exist:
Nozomi is fastest, stopping only at major stations (Tokyo, Shinagawa, Shin-Yokohama, Nagoya, Kyoto, Shin-Osaka). Not covered by the JR Pass — a significant practical consideration.
Hikari stops at additional intermediate stations. Covered by JR Pass. Only slightly slower than Nozomi for Tokyo–Kyoto.
Kodama stops at all stations. Much slower; mainly useful for reaching smaller cities or as a guaranteed-seat option.
JR Pass vs. Individual Tickets
The JR Pass covers most shinkansen (except Nozomi/Mizuho) and nearly all JR trains nationwide. It pays off for trips covering multiple destinations — Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima, Hakone — but breaks even only with significant travel. Calculate your likely routes with current fares before purchasing.
Individual tickets can be purchased at station ticket machines, ticket windows, or in advance via the JR online system. Non-reserved seats are slightly cheaper but may require standing during busy periods.
Reserved vs. Non-Reserved Cars
Shinkansen have both reserved (shitei-seki) and non-reserved (jiyuu-seki) cars. Reserved seats guarantee a specific seat at a specific time; non-reserved lets you board any departure and sit in available seats. Non-reserved is cheaper and flexible but risky during Golden Week, holidays, and popular travel times. With a JR Pass, reservation is free and strongly recommended.
Food on the Shinkansen
Eating on the shinkansen is completely normal and part of the experience. Ekiben (station bento boxes) are sold at major stations and on the train by the trolley. They're excellent — each region has specialties that use local ingredients. Buy before boarding at the ekiben shops in major stations (Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima) for the widest selection.
Practical Tips
Arrive at the platform 5–10 minutes early. Platforms have car number markings on the floor — find your car number before the train arrives. The train stops for exactly the scheduled time (1–3 minutes); boarding and alighting happen simultaneously. Luggage goes in overhead racks or in reserved luggage areas at the front and rear of cars. Keep your ticket — you'll need it to exit at your destination. The toilets on shinkansen are clean and Western-style.
Mount Fuji Views
On the Tokaido Shinkansen between Tokyo and Kyoto/Osaka, Mount Fuji is visible on the right side (when travelling west) approximately 40–45 minutes after leaving Shin-Yokohama, near Shin-Fuji Station. Request a window seat on the right side (seat A or B) when travelling west. Views are best in winter and early spring on clear days; clouds obscure it frequently in summer.