Start with the guide that matches your question. Fares, timetables and seats vary by train and date, so use live search results as the final source before booking.

Booking

How to buy Shinkansen tickets online

Compare booking steps, seat choices and the details to check before paying for a Japan bullet train ticket.

Read the guide Prices

Shinkansen ticket prices and fare types

Understand the base fare, limited-express fee, reserved seats, non-reserved seats and Green Car pricing.

Read the guide Map

Japan Shinkansen map, lines and routes

See the Tokaido, Sanyo, Kyushu, Tohoku, Hokuriku and other bullet train corridors on one guide.

Read the guide Train types

Nozomi, Hikari and Kodama compared

Learn how the main Tokaido Shinkansen services differ, then check the actual stops for your travel date.

Read the guide Seats

Reserved, non-reserved and Green Car seats

Compare common Shinkansen seat classes, reservation choices and the option shown for your selected train.

Read the guide Boarding

How to board the Shinkansen

Follow a first-timer checklist for stations, gates, platforms, carriage numbers and ticket checks.

Read the guide Station

Shinagawa Station: Shinkansen, transfers and exits

Plan a Tokaido Shinkansen transfer at Shinagawa, compare it with Tokyo Station and find Haneda and exit guidance.

Read the guide Station

Ueno Station: Shinkansen, Skyliner and exits

Find the Shinkansen platforms, understand JR and Keisei Ueno, and check Skyliner, exit and luggage information.

Read the guide

How to Board

Simple step-by-step guide for international travelers.

Search

Select route & pay securely.

Get QR

Receive e-ticket via email.

Scan

Scan QR at ticket gate.

Ride

Enjoy your comfortable trip.

Common Questions

Do I need to reserve a seat?

While unreserved cars exist on slower trains (Kodama/Hikari), we highly recommend reserving seats for peace of mind, especially during peak seasons or for the faster Nozomi trains where unreserved cars can get very crowded.

How much luggage can I bring?

You can bring two pieces of luggage (up to 160cm total dimensions) for free. If your luggage is "Oversized" (160cm-250cm), you MUST reserve a seat with an oversized baggage area.

Is food available on the train?

Yes, food carts pass through most Shinkansen trains selling bento boxes, snacks, and drinks. You can also buy "Ekiben" (station bento) at the station before boarding.

How do I pick up my tickets?

We provide a QR Code E-ticket. You can use this QR code directly at the ticket gates or use it to pick up physical tickets at the machine if you prefer.