How can I save money on the Shinkansen?
How can I save money on the Shinkansen? Save on the shinkansen with an EX-IC card In many cases, flying is cheaper than riding there by bullet train. The easiest way to save on shinkansen costs is with an EX-IC card. You pay a deposit to get issued the card. Then, you download the EX App to your phone.
How can I save money on transport in Japan?
- National and regional passes in Japan Japan Rail Pass The JR Regional Pass The best sites to calculate the cost of your trips Websites to purchase a JRP or regional passes.
- Day passes in Japanese cities Tokyo Area Osaka and Kyoto Area Payment cards (IC Cards)
What is the cheapest alternative to the Shinkansen?
Bus travel: Slow — but cheap! You can buy bus tickets online via Willer Express or Kosoku Bus. Highway buses in Japan are an affordable way to travel. While they can be less comfortable than a Shinkansen, they have their own advantages. Firstly, you're guaranteed a seat at no extra cost.
Is JR Pass same as Shinkansen?
All Shinkansen trains are covered by the JR Pass. The Nozomi and Mizuho high-speed trains (Tokaido and Sanyo lines) are also included, subject to purchase of a special complementary ticket. JR Pass holders wishing to travel free on these lines can board local and semi-fast trains.
Do Shinkansen 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!
What happens when you miss your Shinkansen?
If you miss your stop on the Shinkansen in Japan, you have a few options: You can ask the conductor to let you off at the next station. The conductor may be able to do this if there are seats available, but they are not obligated to do so.
Can I take luggage on Shinkansen?
How much luggage can I bring onto the shinkansen? Each passenger is allowed to bring on two pieces of oversized luggage each. Each of these pieces of luggage cannot exceed 250 cm in total dimensions as previously stated. Additionally, each piece of luggage cannot exceed 30 kg (66 lbs) in weight.
What is the cheapest way to transport in Japan?
Highway buses are one of the most economical ways to travel medium to long distances in Japan. While slower than trains, buses cost usually less than half, especially on the competitive Tokyo routes where discount fares can be incredibly low.
Why is Shinkansen so expensive in Japan?
Instead, what makes the Shinkansen (and any Ltd. Express train) more expensive then regular trains is a hefty standard surcharge: the supplementary special-express ticket, which covers the premium experience of traveling on the nice fast trains. And yes, you have to pay it even if you have to stand.
Can you sit anywhere on Shinkansen?
Some trains do not have non-reserved seats (all seats are reserved). There are no Green Cars on most “HIKARI” and “KODAMA” trains on the Sanyo Shinkansen Line (Shin-Osaka—Hakata), or on Series 800 trains on the Kyushu Shinkansen Line.
Can you negotiate travel expenses?
Even if it wasn't the figure you hoped for, don't be scared to negotiate the rest of your package. Believe it or not, vacation time, travel expenses, flexible schedules (coming in to work later, for example), student loan repayment (if offered), and relocation costs are all example benefits you can negotiate.
How can I pay less for travel?
Bundle Hotels and Airfare You can book vacation bundles through a range of online platforms like Expedia and Priceline.com, and the hotel savings you get could be significant. For example, Expedia.com says you can save up to 30% when you add a hotel to your flight booking and join their One Key loyalty program.
What is a cheaper way to travel on bullet trains in Japan?
The JR Pass is the most cost-effective way to travel around Japan for most visitors. The pass offers unlimited access to all JR public transport including Shinkansen bullet trains, buses, ferries, and airport transfers, for a very cheap, discounted price.
Can you eat on Shinkansen?
Eating and drinking on Japanese trains You 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.
What is the cheapest day to fly?
- Tuesdays and Wednesdays are the cheapest days to fly domestically.
- Saturday and Monday flights can help you avoid the Sunday rush.
- Wednesdays and Thursdays are the cheapest day to fly internationally.
- Book one to three months in advance.
- Set a price alert.