How to Buy & Use Shinkansen Tickets in Japan – A Complete Guide

Japan's Shinkansen: How to Purchase & Use Bullet Train Tickets

Japan’s Shinkansen, also known as the bullet train, is one of the most efficient, comfortable, and iconic ways to travel across the country. Whether you’re planning a trip from Tokyo to Kyoto or exploring Hokkaido, understanding how to purchase and use Shinkansen tickets is essential. This guide will walk you through ticket types, booking methods, and insider tips to ensure a smooth journey.

Where to Buy Shinkansen Tickets

You have several options for purchasing Shinkansen tickets, both in-person and online.

1. Buying Shinkansen Tickets In-Person

You can buy tickets at any major JR train station in Japan using:

• JR Ticket Office (Midori no Madoguchi) – A staffed counter where you can get assistance.
• Reserved Seat Ticket Vending Machines – Available in English for easy self-service booking.

When purchasing at a JR ticket office, prepare the following information:
✅ Departure and arrival stations
✅ Travel date and time
✅ Ticket type (non-reserved, reserved, or Green Car)
✅ Number of adults and children

One advantage of using ticket vending machines is avoiding long lines at JR ticket offices. However, if you’re unfamiliar with the process, the staff at the ticket counter can guide you.

2. Buying Shinkansen Tickets Online

Purchasing tickets online is convenient, especially if you want to secure your seats in advance. The main platforms include:

• Klook – A popular third-party platform offering e-tickets with QR codes for direct scanning at ticket gates.
• Smart EX – The official JR online booking system, allowing ticket purchases and linking to an IC card.
• JR East Ekinet – Best for booking Shinkansen routes in eastern Japan.

Most online platforms allow bookings up to one month in advance, though Klook offers pre-orders up to 90 days ahead.

Understanding Shinkansen Ticket Types

Shinkansen tickets consist of two parts:
1️⃣ Basic Fare Ticket – Covers travel from point A to point B.
2️⃣ Super Limited Express Ticket – Allows you to ride the high-speed bullet train.

Depending on your preference and budget, you can choose from the following ticket types:

1. Non-Reserved Seat Ticket

• Available for most Shinkansen lines (except Hayabusa, Komachi, and Kagayaki).
• Allows you to board any non-reserved car on the selected route.
• Seats are first-come, first-served; standing may be required if seats are full.

2. Reserved Seat Ticket

• Assigns you a specific seat on a designated train and departure time.
• Recommended for peak seasons or long-distance trips.

3. Green Car (First-Class) Ticket

• Offers more spacious seating, extra legroom, and a quieter environment.
• Reserved seating only; no discounted child tickets available.

4. Grand Class Ticket (Luxury Class)

• Available on certain JR East Shinkansen routes.
• Premium experience with reclining seats, meals, and personalized service.

How to Use Shinkansen Tickets

Once you have your ticket, follow these steps to board and exit the Shinkansen:

1. Entering the Shinkansen Gate

• Paper Ticket Users – Insert the ticket into the automatic gate and retrieve it.
• QR Code Ticket Users – Scan the QR code at the designated reader.
• IC Card Users (Smart EX or JR East Ekinet) – Tap the IC card at the gate.

If using a paper ticket, keep it safe as you’ll need it again when exiting at your destination.

2. Boarding the Shinkansen

• Check the departure board for your train’s platform number.
• Locate the correct train car based on your seat assignment or non-reserved seating preference.
• If you want a Mount Fuji view on the Tokyo-Kyoto route, choose seat E in Ordinary Class or D in Green Car.

3. Exiting the Shinkansen

• Paper tickets are inserted into the gate upon exit and are not returned.
• QR code and IC card users scan their tickets again to leave the station.

Luggage Rules & Oversized Baggage Reservations

For large luggage (161 cm to 250 cm in total dimensions), you must reserve an oversized baggage area in advance if traveling on the Tokaido, Sanyo, or Kyushu Shinkansen lines. Alternatively, you can use luggage forwarding services like Yamato Transport to send large bags directly to your hotel.

Tips for Booking & Traveling on the Shinkansen

✔ Book early during peak seasons – Golden Week (May), Obon (August), and New Year are extremely busy.
✔ Use a vending machine to avoid long lines – JR ticket offices can have wait times of 1–2 hours at major stations.
✔ Consider online booking for convenience – Platforms like Klook and Smart EX save time and allow advance reservations.
✔ Allow extra time at Tokyo Station – It’s massive, so arrive early to navigate to the correct platform.
✔ Have your IC card ready – If using Smart EX or JR East Ekinet, ensure your IC card is registered.

Enjoy the Speed, Comfort, and Ease of Japan's Shinkansen

Traveling on Japan’s Shinkansen is a must-have experience, combining speed, efficiency, and breathtaking scenery. By understanding the ticket options, booking methods, and essential travel tips, you can make your journey seamless and stress-free. Whether you're reserving a seat in advance or tapping through with an IC card, Japan’s bullet train network is ready to take you on an unforgettable adventure.