Biglietti del treno in Giappone

Traveling by train in Japan

Japan's rail system is largely developed and is a very practical means of transportation both locally and cross-country, so both residents and tourists alike find themselves riding trains almost on a daily basis, be it their local train lines or the world-famous Shinkansen bullet trains. For those taking their first trip out to Japan, the role that train travel will play during their journey undoubtedly crosses their minds. 

While the prominence of train travel in Japan makes its usage very commonplace, there are a few things that may require some prior knowledge or preparation before first-time visitors climb aboard. This applies even if they are coming from a country that already has a prevalent train travel culture. 

Why are trains so popular in Japan?

Japan's rail transportation system is one of the best in the world. Taking the train in Japan can be summed up in three words: efficient, fast, and clean. Until you have experienced it, it's hard to believe how easy, and impressively convenient it is, to take the train in Japan. Despite the fact that Japan's rail system is ridden by millions of passengers per day, trains are always spotless, on time, and functioning. For many readers, this may sound like a utopia compared to their country's train network. 

There are many reasons for this incredible railway system, but it can be trimmed down to Japan's reliance on imports in terms of fossil fuels, which prompted the country to heavily invest in its transportation network through trains. Since the late 19th century, train companies in Japan have been building lines to get people and goods from point A to point B efficiently, and thanks to this historic network, cities began to build themselves around trains. Where most of Western urbanism focused on car-centric infrastructure, Japan mostly developed its urban sprawl around train stations. You will see that in most Japanese cities, train stations are the economic and demographic center of the city. 

With the right investment into its train system, Japan effectively created one of the most reliable, fast and safe rail networks in the world!

What types of Shinkansen trains are available with train tickets?

To get around Japan by train, if your journey involves long distance, the better (and most available) option is the Shinkansen bullet train. These high-speed and futuristic trains are the pride and joy of Japan's transportation system, being able to carry hundreds of passengers at speeds upward of 200 miles per hour (320km/h). Shinkansen trains being solely the name of high-speed Japanese trains, different variations of these trains exists within the different lines. For example, on the Tokaido Line, connecting Tokyo and Osaka, one of the most popular lines in the country, three train types coexist. 

Keeping the example of the Tokyo to Osaka journey, you can choose between three types of Shinkansen high-speed bullet trains: Hikari, Kodama and Nozomi. Hikari trains make fewer stops, and take around 2 hours and 40 minutes to complete the trip. Kodama trains stop at all stations on the way, and thus the Tokyo to Osaka trip takes a little over 3 hours and 40 minutes. The Nozomi is the fastest of the options at 2 hours and 20 minutes, being an express and almost direct service, but it'll cost you more. This Shinkansen also operates only with reserved seats. 

You can be sure that no matter the type of train, reclinable seats, overhead storage, power outlets, and more are available on board! Traveling by Shinkansen from Tokyo to Osaka will be both efficient and comfortable. Be sure to research all seat and car options to book the train ticket adapted to your travel needs. 

Read more about the Shinkansen network in Japan.