Shinkansen bullet trains are the fastest and most convenient way of discovering Japan. The Japan Rail (JR) network is extensive and the trains reach a top speed of 320 km/h (199 mph). This allows you to get to wherever you need in little time. The nine Shinkansen lines take you in different directions around Japan.
Are bullet trains cheaper than airplanes in Japan?
Are bullet trains cheaper than airplanes in Japan? Believe it or not, flying can often be cheaper than the shinkansen! If you're heading to a far-off city like Sapporo or Fukuoka, you may be able to snag cheap tickets from one of the Tokyo airports.
How much does it cost to make a Japanese bullet train?
The cost of constructing the Shinkansen was at first estimated at nearly 200 billion yen, which was raised in the form of a government loan, railway bonds and a low-interest loan of US$80 million from the World Bank.
Can you see Mt Fuji from bullet train?
Mount Fuji can be seen from the Tokaido Shinkansen between Tokyo and Osaka. When coming from Tokyo, the mountain appears on the right side of the train and is best viewed around Shin-Fuji Station, about 40-45 minutes into the journey. The best views can be enjoyed from the window-side seat F (or seat D in Green Cars).
What is a cheaper way to travel on bullet trains in Japan?
Using IC Cards offers discounted prices on tickets too and works out as much cheaper than individual tickets. However, bear in mind you can use the Japan Rail Pass to get around individual cities as well as between cities. For more detailed information, read our article about Japanese IC Cards.
Do Japanese bullet trains make money?
Passenger revenue of JR Central Shinkansen in Japan FY 2013-2022. In the fiscal year 2022, Central Japan Railway Company (JR Central) earned around 0.99 trillion Japanese yen of revenues from its high-speed railway Shinkansen, increasing from roughly 0.59 trillion in the preceding year.
Can you eat on Shinkansen?
Eating and drinking on Japanese trainsYou should eat on trains only when taking a long-distance train, such as the Shinkansen. These types of trains have a tray and cup holder at every seat, and snacks are sold from a vendor trolley. When taking this type of train, it is also acceptable to bring your own food.
Why is the bullet train so expensive Japan?
Is it better to fly from Tokyo to Osaka or take the train?
The fastest, easiest, and most convenient option is the Shinkansen, especially if you have a Japan Rail Pass or are looking to arrive quick-fast. The cheapest option is usually a highway bus, followed by flights — but these are both a bit time-consuming.
Are Japanese bullet trains free?
Your ticket will be divided into three components: the base fare, the Shinkansen supplement (called the limited express fee) and your seat reservation fee. If you have a Japan Rail Pass, travel is free on almost all shinkansen trains.
How long does it take from Tokyo to Mt. Fuji by bullet train?
2 hoursTravel time by train is a little over 2 hours from Tokyo. To get there: Take JR Tokaido line for Kozu from Tokyo Station, using your JR Pass. Once at Kozu (Kanagawa), take the JR Gotemba Line for Numazu.
Do bullet trains sell out?
Do Shinkansen tickets sell out? Yes, especially for weekend travel and during peak seasons, Shinkansen services can be fully booked. In this case, it may be possible to ride with a non-reserved seat ticket, if you are willing to stand for the entire journey!
Is Shinkansen free seating?
Nozomi train on the Tokaido shinkansen no longer has free seating in peak season. JR Central has announced that it will discontinue free-seating tickets on Tokaido Shinkansen's Nozomi trains during peak travel seasons.
Should I go Osaka or Kyoto?
Osaka is a cheaper, more modern option with lively nightlife, however, there isn't a lot to do in the city. Kyoto is much more traditional and atmospheric, but it comes with a price tag, and the city quiets down at night. Whichever city you choose, you'll be sure to have a great time!
Should I go to Osaka or Kyoto first from Tokyo?
The biggest decision you must make is which city to visit first: Osaka or Kyoto? Here, we'll suggest visiting Osaka first, but you could easily switch them around. Note that the two Osaka days here are a summary version of our Osaka 2-Day Itinerary.
Do JR trains sell out?
Depending on which region you are travelling through you can buy your tickets on the website of JR East, JR Central, JR West or JR Kyushu. Most shinkansen have both reserved and unreserved seating but as trains can sell out, particularly at peak time, booking a reserved seat in advance is recommended.