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

📌 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

💰 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.

You may also like

• Japan Family Itinerary (10–12 days)
• Tokyo Disney
• Universal Studios Japan
• Fuji-Q Highland