The Shinkansen is a high-speed train that connects Japan's major cities and is used by many people for everything from business to tourism. However, there are many tips on how to use it that will make your trip more comfortable and smooth if you know them. This time, we will introduce some "tips for riding the Shinkansen" that will be useful for everyone, from beginners unfamiliar with the Shinkansen to veterans looking for a more luxurious journey.

From booking to boarding: a smooth start to your trip

How to buy tickets wisely

Book early to save! Many Shinkansen trains offer early bird discounts. If you book early online, you can get tickets at a lower price than the regular fare, especially with the "Eki-net Tokudawari" and "Smart EX" early bird discounts.

Aim for off-peak travel: During busy periods such as Golden Week, Obon, and the New Year holidays, tickets not only sell out quickly but also tend to be more expensive. If you can adjust your schedule, choosing a less crowded time, such as during the day on a weekday or early morning or late night on a weekend, will ensure a comfortable trip.

The difference between reserved and unreserved seats

Reserved Seat : A seat is reserved and you are guaranteed a seat.

Non-reserved seats : These are cheaper and can be used without a reservation, but you may not be able to get a seat if the train is crowded. If you are carrying large amounts of luggage, you should consider using a reserved seat.

The secret to choosing your seat

Window or aisle seat?: While window seats offer a great view, you have to be considerate of the person next to you when you get up to go to the restroom, etc. On the other hand, aisle seats offer the advantage of being able to stand up whenever you want.

Location of power outlets : In recent Shinkansen trains, more and more carriages have power outlets at every seat, but in older carriages, they may only be available at window seats. One option is to choose your seat with power outlets in mind, such as charging your smartphone.

Seats near the multipurpose room or restroom : If you expect to get up frequently, seats near the deck are convenient. However, there are many passengers getting on and off near the deck, so it can get noisy, so if you want a quieter environment, it's best to avoid these areas.

Things to note before boarding the Shinkansen

Station ticket gates are separated into those for conventional lines (regular trains) and those for the Shinkansen. Be sure to go through the ticket gate marked "Shinkansen." There are also various patterns when passing through the ticket gate, such as needing to place two tickets on top of each other, or using both an IC card and a ticket. If you are unsure, ask a station staff member.

Manners on the train

How to spend time at the station: Make the most of your time before departure

Check the departure platform : Shinkansen platforms may change just before departure, so be sure to check the electronic bulletin boards and announcements inside the station frequently.

How to Choose an Ekiben : One of the joys of traveling on the Shinkansen is the ekiben. Major stations sell a wide variety of delicious ekiben that are unique to their area. Before you depart, take a look at the shops inside the station to find the perfect ekiben for your trip. Recently, there are also services that allow you to pre-order online and pick up your ekiben at the station.

Drinks and snacks : Food and drinks are sold on board Shinkansen trains, but the selection is limited and some trains do not have in-car sales. It is a good idea to buy what you need at a convenience store or shop inside the station before boarding.

How to spend time in the car: Creating a comfortable time

Make full use of on-board facilities

Wi-Fi Service : Most Shinkansen trains offer free Wi-Fi on board. However, the connection can be unstable or slow, so it's a good idea to download any important files before boarding.

Footrests and reclining seats: Seats are equipped with footrests to make your feet more comfortable and reclining functions to allow you to recline the seat. Use these features to find a comfortable position that suits you. However, it is good manners to ask the person sitting behind you before reclining the seat.

Luggage storage : There is space to store large luggage such as suitcases in the overhead racks and behind the seats in the first and last rows. Find the best location for your luggage based on its size. Avoid blocking the aisle, as this will cause inconvenience to other passengers.

It's important to stay quiet

As Japan's Shinkansen trains are often used for business purposes, it is considered good manners to remain quiet on board. Please refrain from talking loudly or making phone calls. If you need to make a phone call, it is common to go out onto the deck.

Eating and drinking on board

Eating and drinking on board is allowed

On Japanese Shinkansen trains, you can enjoy ekiben (boxed lunches) and drinks on board, which is one of the great pleasures of traveling by Shinkansen.

Please take your trash home or put it in the trash can

It is considered good manners to throw away trash in the trash bins located at the couplings of the carriages, or in the trash bins at the station, or to take it home yourself. Trash bins are separated into "burnable trash," "plastic bottles," "glasses and cans," etc., so please cooperate.

Smoking

All seats on the Shinkansen are non-smoking. Some carriages have smoking rooms, but they are few in number, so please check in advance.

Be careful not to miss your stop

Japan's Shinkansen trains run precisely down to the minute. If you accidentally fall asleep and miss your stop, you'll end up going all the way to the next station, making it difficult to get back. Make sure you listen carefully to the announcements on the train and make sure you know which station you need to get off at.

Multilingual support

Recently, Shinkansen trains have been offering in-car announcements and displays in multiple languages. Be sure to listen carefully to announcements in English, Chinese, Korean, and more.

Items that will enrich your trip

Earplugs and eye mask : If you are sensitive to noise and light, earplugs and an eye mask can help you feel more relaxed.

Power bank : Running out of battery on your smartphone or tablet can be a major stressor when traveling, so having a power bank with you is a great way to keep your phone safe even if you can't find a power outlet.

Reading and entertainment : Long journeys can fly by if you have a book to read or a movie to watch. We recommend downloading e-books and videos before boarding.

From drop-off to destination: End your journey in style

Confirm your destination : When you are approaching your destination, an announcement will be made on the train. Make sure you confirm your destination and start packing your luggage.

Prepare your IC card : If you need to transfer or will be taking a train or bus from the station to your destination, having a transportation IC card such as Suica or PASMO will allow you to pass through the ticket gates smoothly.

Check the exit : Check in advance which exit is closest to your destination to reduce the time you spend getting lost inside the station. Use the station map or a map app on your smartphone.

summary

The Shinkansen is more than just a means of transportation. You can enjoy it as part of your journey, watching the scenery pass by from the window, savoring a delicious ekiben (boxed lunch box), or immersing yourself in a good book. If you keep these points in mind, overseas visitors should be able to use Japan's Shinkansen more comfortably and safely. Please understand Japanese culture and etiquette and enjoy a wonderful Shinkansen journey. Please use the "Tips for Riding the Shinkansen" introduced here as a reference and find your own comfortable travel style. We hope your Shinkansen journey will be a wonderful and memorable one.

Please note: This article is based on information at the time of publication and may differ from the latest information. Shinkansen operation status, fares, service details, etc. are subject to change, so please check the latest information yourself before traveling. We cannot be held responsible for any trouble or damage that may occur as a result of using the contents of this article as a reference.