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In short
- Check the seat type and booking conditions before buying
- Use the boarding method specified by your reservation service
- Check luggage rules for your train before travelling
Before you ride
The Shinkansen, also known as the bullet train, connects major cities and regions across Japan. This guide covers buying a ticket, finding your platform and boarding your train.
Services, seat types and booking systems vary by route. Check the operator’s information for the train you plan to use.
Booking your ticket
Seat types
- Non-reserved seat: use an available seat in a designated non-reserved car, where this option is offered
- Reserved seat: a specific seat on a particular train
- Green Car: a premium seating option on applicable services
- GranClass: a premium class offered on selected trains; availability and service vary
Where to buy
Tickets are available from JR ticket offices, supported ticket machines and the relevant operator’s online reservation service. The reservation service you need depends on your route.
Smart EX official reservations covers the Tokaido, Sanyo and Kyushu Shinkansen. Check the service’s route coverage and conditions before booking.
Using a Japan Rail Pass
Check whether your train, route and seat class are covered by your pass. Nozomi and Mizuho services require a separate special ticket in addition to a Japan Rail Pass; do not assume that the pass alone is enough.
Check the official Japan Rail Pass conditions and Nozomi and Mizuho special-ticket information before buying or boarding.
From the station to your seat
- Check your departure station, train name and number, departure time, car and seat
- Follow signs marked Shinkansen or 新幹線 to the appropriate gate
- Use the paper ticket, registered IC card or QR code specified by your reservation service
- Check the platform departure board and the car-position signs
- Wait in the marked queue and let passengers get off first
- Find your car and seat, and keep your ticket or booking details available
Boarding methods depend on the reservation service. Follow its instructions rather than assuming that every e-ticket uses a QR code. See Smart EX’s official boarding guide if you booked through Smart EX.
A Japan Rail Pass can be used at supported automatic gates or shown to station staff. Follow the official pass instructions for your ticket and journey.
Onboard etiquette and luggage
Luggage
Keep your bags where they do not block aisles or doors. Luggage storage and reservation rules vary by route and luggage size, so check them before you travel.
For the Tokaido, Sanyo and Kyushu Shinkansen, check Smart EX’s oversized-baggage information when travelling with a large suitcase.
Food and phone use
Be considerate when eating or drinking and keep your space tidy. Muslim travellers may prefer to arrange suitable food before boarding.
Set your phone to silent mode. If you need to make a call, use the designated deck area and keep your voice low.
Getting off the train
Listen for your station announcement and check the displays. Gather your belongings before arrival and make sure that you leave nothing behind.
Leave the train without blocking the aisle. Keep any tickets you still need for the exit or a connecting journey.
Good to know
Before you go
Services, fares, timetables and luggage rules can change. Check the operator’s latest information before you travel.
