Is JR same as Shinkansen?


Is JR same as Shinkansen? 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.


How much is a Shinkansen ticket from Tokyo to Osaka?

In Tokyo, you can catch the Shinkansen either at Tokyo Station or Shinagawa Station, and then arrive to Shin-Osaka Station in Osaka. A one-way journey costs 13,620 yen (unreserved seat) or 14,340 yen (reserved seat), but with your JR Pass, you can avail of either without having to pay additional fees.


Do you need a ticket for Shinkansen if you have JR Pass?

The JR Pass covers all JR network express, fast and local trains. Shinkansen high-speed trains are also covered, including NOZOMI and MIZUHO services with the purchase of a special ticket (from October 2023).


What is the difference between Shinkansen and JR Pass?

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.


Where do you put luggage on Shinkansen?

You can put baggage whose overall dimensions are less than 160 cm (the same size as the baggage that can be carried for free in airplane holds) * on the overhead baggage rack of the Shinkansen.


Does Shinkansen need to be booked?

You must order at least 3 days in advance before the day of travel. I would advise you to book your shinkansen tickets as far in advance as you can, during peak season like Christmas and New Year, cherry blossom season (April) and fall foliage season (November). It gets extremely busy and trains are often fully booked.


Do I need to reserve seats on Shinkansen?

There are no crowds on the intercity Shinkansen trains so free seats tend to be available. However, it is recommended to book a seat before boarding any train during the following peak seasons: April 27 to May 6. August 11-20.


What is the difference between bullet train and Shinkansen?

Shinkansen (???) in Japanese means 'new trunk line' or 'new main line', but this word is used to describe both the railway lines the trains run on and the trains themselves. In English, the trains are also known as the bullet train.


Does the JR Pass go to Osaka?

The Japan Rail Pass covers the JR Osaka loop line, and makes for a great way to explore Osaka with.


Can I use JR Pass for Shinkansen from Tokyo to Kyoto?

With your Japan Rail Pass The cities of Tokyo and Kyoto are linked to each other by the JR Tokaido Shinkansen Line. A one-way trip from Tokyo Station to Kyoto Station on a Hikari or Kodama train costs 13,080 yen (unreserved seat) or 13,800 yen (reserved seat), but is completely free with a JR Pass.


Can you buy Shinkansen tickets at any JR office?

Any JR ticket office or ticket window can sell you shinkansen tickets. In larger train stations like Tokyo and Kyoto, they also have dedicated shinkansen ticket offices.


Which Shinkansen goes to Osaka?

Shinkansen or bullet train The fastest way to travel between Tokyo and Osaka is via the Nozomi trains on the Tokaido Shinkansen Line. In just 2 hours and 30 minutes, you can get from Tokyo Station to Shin-Osaka Station.


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.


Is it possible to buy Shinkansen tickets on the day?

You can buy Shinkansen tickets at the station until just before departure, so long as they're available. This can be accomplished at a ticket counter or at special ticket machines. There are pros and cons to both methods. However, it is good to know how to buy tickets from the automated vending machines.


How early should I arrive for Shinkansen?

Some trains might have a stop as brief as 1 minute, while others might stop 5 to 10 minutes due to waiting for other Shinkansen to pass. Regardless, arriving at the platform about 15 minutes before the departure time provides ample mental and physical preparation.


What happens if you miss your JR train?

The official rule is that you can still travel but have to use a non-reserved seat. Though JR Staff generally will issue new reservations for you if a train is not crowded. There is no penalty for missed trains or for re-booking a ticket.


Can you bring your own food 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. When taking this type of train, it is also acceptable to bring your own food.


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 I ride Shinkansen without reservation?

Even the Shinkansen (bullet trains) are equipped with several non-reserved seats cars that you can ride with your JR Pass, without booking ticket. However, it is recommended to book a seat in the Shinkansen when traveling during Japan's national holiday's periods.