Does the JR Pass cover all Shinkansen?

It covers most routes, excluding Nozomi and Mizuho services on the Tokaido/Sanyo lines.

Do I need a seat reservation?

Not mandatory on non-reserved cars, but recommended during peak seasons and for families.

What are the luggage rules?

Bags up to 160 cm (sum of dimensions) fit overhead/behind seats. 160–250 cm require an oversized-baggage seat.

Is Wi-Fi and power available?

Most modern trains offer free Wi-Fi and power outlets at or near seats.

23 Oct, 2025

🚄 Shinkansen Japan

Uncategorized

🚄 Shinkansen Japan 2025: Complete Guide to Tickets, Train Types & Speeds

🚄 Shinkansen Japan 2025: Fastest City-to-City Travel

Shinkansen bullet trains link Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima and more at up to 320 km/h. For multi-city trips, they beat flying on total journey time thanks to city-center stations, frequency, and comfort.

📌 Train Types

Nozomi: fastest Tokyo–Osaka (~2h30) — not covered by JR Pass.
Hikari: fewer stops than Kodama (~3h) — covered by JR Pass.
Kodama: all stops (~4h) — covered by JR Pass.

Pick based on budget and whether you hold a JR Pass.

💺 Seat Classes

Class	Description	Best for
Ordinary	2–3 layout, comfortable, best value.	Solo travelers & most families.
Green	Roomier 2–2 seats, quieter cabins.	Longer rides & extra comfort.
Reserved / Non-Reserved	Guaranteed seat vs. first-come.	Reserve during peak times.

💰 Fares (2025)

Tokyo ⇄ Kyoto/Osaka: 13,500–14,500 JPY (~US$95–105).
Tokyo ⇄ Hiroshima: ~18,500 JPY (~US$130).
Tokyo ⇄ Nagano: ~8,000 JPY (~US$55).

Varies by service (Nozomi/Hikari/Kodama) and seat (reserved/non-reserved/Green).

🛒 How to Book

JR station ticket machines.
Midori no Madoguchi ticket offices.
Official JR websites/apps and partner platforms.

With a Japan Rail Pass, make free seat reservations at JR counters.

⏱️ Typical Journey Times

Tokyo ⇄ Kyoto: 2h30 – 3h.
Tokyo ⇄ Osaka: 2h30 – 3h.
Tokyo ⇄ Hiroshima: 4 – 5h.

🎒 Luggage Rules

Up to 160 cm total dimensions: overhead/behind seats.
160–250 cm: book an oversized-baggage seat area.
Keep aisles clear for safety and trolley service.

✅ Why Choose Shinkansen?

Up to 320 km/h with outstanding punctuality.
City-center to city-center convenience.
Comfortable seats, clean cars, frequent departures.
Mount Fuji views on some routes.

❓ FAQ

Does JR Pass cover all Shinkansen? Most, except Nozomi and Mizuho services.

Do I need reservations? Not mandatory for non-reserved cars; recommended in peak seasons.

Is Wi-Fi available? Yes on most modern sets; power outlets near seats.

Shinkansen vs domestic flights? Usually faster door-to-door between major cities.

Tripmoo