Shinkansen (High-Speed Train)
The Shinkansen (新幹線, "new main line") is Japan's crown jewel of engineering — and one of the best travel experiences in the world. In operation since 1964, not a single fatal accident, average delay: 54 seconds.
The most important routes
| Route | Duration | Price (without JR Pass) | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tokyo → Kyoto | 2h 15 (Hikari) | ¥13,320 (~83 €) | Tokaido Shinkansen |
| Tokyo → Osaka | 2h 30 (Hikari) | ¥13,870 (~87 €) | Tokaido Shinkansen |
| Tokyo → Hiroshima | 4h (Hikari+Sakura) | ¥18,380 (~115 €) | Tokaido + Sanyo |
| Tokyo → Kanazawa | 2h 30 (Hakutaka) | ¥14,180 (~89 €) | Hokuriku Shinkansen |
| Tokyo → Sendai | 1h 30 (Hayabusa) | ¥11,210 (~70 €) | Tohoku Shinkansen |
| Kyoto → Hiroshima | 1h 40 (Sakura) | ¥10,440 (~65 €) | Sanyo Shinkansen |
Trains on the Tokaido line (Tokyo–Osaka)
- Nozomi: The fastest (2h 15 to Kyoto) — NOT included in the JR Pass
- Hikari: Almost as fast (2h 30 to Kyoto) — included in the JR Pass ✓
- Kodama: Stops at all stations (3h 40 to Kyoto) — included in the JR Pass ✓
Tips for the Shinkansen
- Fuji view: On the Tokyo → Kyoto route, sit on the right (window seat side E) for the best view of Mount Fuji (in clear weather, about 40–50 min. after departure)
- Ekiben: Shinkansen bento boxes (駅弁) are a culinary tradition — each region has its own specialty. Buy at the station and enjoy on the train!
- Luggage: Since 2020, oversized suitcases (over 160 cm total dimension) must be reserved in advance. Book an "Oversized Baggage Seat" — free but mandatory
💡 Tipp
The Shinkansen is more punctual than any wristwatch — if the schedule says 10:23, it leaves at 10:23. Stand at the correct marking on the platform 2 minutes beforehand (car number on the ground). The train stops so that the door is exactly in front of the marking.
