As one of the most advanced rail networks in the world, taking the Shinkansen is a fast, easy and affordable way to get around cities across Japan.

JR companies such as JR East, JR West, JR Hokkaido, JR Central, JR Shikoku and JR Kyushu run on the system, along with private Japanese rail companies.

Besides Shinkansen, there are express trains that go to suburban areas in Japan.

How can I book Shinkansen and other trains in Japan on Klook?

At Klook, we make it easy to book a journey across Japan. Search for your dates and destinations and choose your options. You can reserve your seats or get non-reserved tickets for more flexibility. What’s more, you'll always skip the line and avoid any language barriers when you book in advance with Klook. Besides English, we have other languages to make your booking experience smooth. We partner with JR companies and train operators in Japan to offer routes on bullet train and express train tickets across major cities, such as Tokyo to Osaka, Tokyo to Kyoto, Osaka to Tokyo, Kyoto to Tokyo, Tokyo to Nagoya, Nagoya to Tokyo, Osaka to Fukui, and Fukui to Osaka.

What are the Shinkansen lines?

There are 9 Shinkansen lines in total. Starting from the west of Tokyo, the Tokaido Shinkansen connects Tokyo to Kyoto and Osaka; the famous Nozomi train also runs within this Shinkansen line. The Sanyo Shinkansen line connects Osaka to Fukuoka; it is an extension of the Tokaido Shinkansen that can take you from Tokyo to Fukuoka (Hakata). Panning into Kyushu region, there’s also the Kyushu Shinkansen, operating from Hakata to Kagoshima.

Looking at the north and east of Tokyo, there are 6 more Shinkansen lines. The Hokuriku Shinkansen and Joetsu Shinkansen can take you from Tokyo to Kanazawa and Niigata. The Tohoku Shinkansen offers services between Tokyo and Aomori, with 2 extension lines as Yamagata Shinkansen (from Fukushima) and Akita Shinkansen (from Morioka). Finally, there’s the Hokkaido Shinkansen, with services between Aomori and Hakodate.

What is Narita Express (N'EX)?

The Narita Express is a dedicated airport train that runs between Narita Airport and various locations in Tokyo, including Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Tokyo Station. It operates regularly throughout the day, with departures as often as every 30 minutes.

One of the key advantages of taking the Narita Express is its speed. The train travels at up to 160 kilometers per hour, allowing you to reach your destination quickly and comfortably. You won't have to worry about traffic jams or delays due to road congestion.

Another benefit of the Narita Express is its convenience. The train has plenty of luggage space, and you can easily store your suitcases in the overhead racks or at the end of each car. Plus, the seats are comfortable and spacious, making for a pleasant travel experience.

What is the Nozomi train?

Famous for its speed, the Nozomi Shinkansen train can run up to as fast as 300 km per hour (185 mph). This bullet train runs from Tokyo Station to Shin Osaka station or Kyoto station. Since it is not covered by the Whole Japan Rail Pass, you'll need to book a separate ticket to ride this train.

Can I take a trip from Tokyo to Osaka or Kyoto?

Yes, with the Tokaido Shinkansen. As two of the busiest Shinkansen routes, the Tokaido Shinkansen connects the 3 of the biggest cities in Japan with up to 32 trains running a day. You can arrive in the west of Japan from the capital in around 2.5 hours. The train stations are all located in the city centre, so getting around is easy. Search now on Klook to check ticket prices and schedules for your Shinkansen tickets to get from Tokyo to Osaka or Kyoto!

What train classes do Shinkansen trains offer?

There are 2 train classes offered on Shinkansen trains:

Green Car: At a higher price, you'll get a more comfortable ride with complimentary drinks, snacks, etc.

Ordinary car: You'll still get a great travel experience at a more affordable price. All cars have free WiFi.

Can I reserve my seats on Shinkansen trains?

Yes - you can pick between whether you want a reserved seat ticket or a non-reserved seat ticket.

Reserved seat: You will get a specified train and seat.

Non-reserved seat: You will get better flexibility as you can take any train for the specified date/route. However, you are not guaranteed a seat and you might need to stand for the journey.

Should I book a Shinkansen/express train ticket or get a JR Pass?

This depends on your travel plans. If you are planning to travel across multiple cities in Japan, JR Passes will offer better value for money.