Your guide to taking the Tokaido and Sanyo Shinkansen
Imagine gliding through the Japanese countryside at speeds up to 320 km/h (200 mph) while comfortably seated in a state-of-the-art train. The Tokaido and Sanyo Shinkansen lines offer just that experience as Japan’s iconic bullet train system.
Together, they seamlessly link Tokyo and Fukuoka on a train journey that takes just under 5 hours. The Tokaido Shinkansen covers the journey between Tokyo and Osaka, while the Sanyo Shinkansen extends from Osaka to Fukuoka, providing a vital link between western and southern Japan.
Sit back, relax, and join us on a journey on the Tokaido and Sanyo Shinkansen, where we’ll delve into ticket options, booking procedures, and everything you need to know to enjoy this unforgettable travel experience!
Exploring the Tokaido & Sanyo Shinkansen
The Shinkansen, or bullet train, is a symbol of Japanese innovation and efficiency. With a network that spans the length of the country, these high-speed Japanese bullet trains, including the popular Nozomi and Hikari trains, connect major cities and regions with unparalleled convenience and speed.
To fully appreciate these engineering marvels, we will begin with an overview of the Shinkansen system and subsequently compare the routes and train types of the Tokaido and Sanyo lines.
What is Japan's Shinkansen?
The Shinkansen is Japan’s high-speed rail network and is renowned for its punctuality, comfort, safety, and efficiency. The Shinkansen has revolutionized train travel since its debut in 1964. It currently consists of several lines crisscrossing the country, connecting major cities and regions with speeds reaching up to 320 km/h (200 mph).
For travelers looking to explore Japan, the Shinkansen is an essential mode of transportation. With a Shinkansen ticket or Japan Rail Pass, you can gain unrestricted access to Shinkansen high-speed trains, making it a breeze to travel between destinations.
From the northernmost reaches of Hokkaido to the southern tip of Kyushu, the Shinkansen network spans the length of the country, allowing you to explore Japan’s rich cultural history and breathtaking natural beauty in record time.
What is the Tokaido and Sanyo Shinkansen?
The Tokaido Shinkansen was inaugurated in 1964 as the world's first high-speed rail line, linking Tokyo, Nagoya, Kyoto, and Osaka. On the other hand, the Sanyo Shinkansen extends from Osaka, Himeji, Okayama, and Hiroshima, to Hakata in Kyushu, providing a vital link between western and southern Japan.
These lines traverse diverse landscapes, from bustling urban centers to picturesque countryside, offering passengers a dynamic journey through Japan's cultural and geographical tapestry.
The Tokaido line features three types of trains: Nozomi, Hikari, and Kodama. While the Sanyo line provides: Nozomi, Hikari, Kodama, Mizuho, and Sakura trains.
- Nozomi: Fastest of the four, with the journey between Tokyo and Shin-Osaka only taking 2hr 24mins. Stops at Tokyo, Shinagawa, Shin-Yokohama, Nagoya, Kyoto, and Shin-Osaka, Shin-Kobe, Okayama, Fukuyama, Hiroshima, Kokura, and Hakata Stations.
- Hikari: Second fastest train, with the journey between Tokyo and Shin-Osaka taking 2hr 54mins. Stops at Tokyo, Shinagawa, Shin-Yokohama, Mishima, Shizuoka, Hamamatsu, Nagoya, Kyoto, Shin-Osaka, Shin-Kobe, Nishiakashi, Himeji, Aioi, and Okayama Stations.
- Kodama: Slowest of the three trains connecting Tokyo and Shin-Osaka Stations in about 4hrs, stopping at all stations on the Tokaido Shinkansen.
- Mizuho: As fast as the Nozomi, with the journey between Shin-Osaka and Hakata taking 2hr 28mins. Stops at Shin-Osaka, Shin-Kobe, Okayama, Fukuyama, Hiroshima, Kokura, Hakata, Kumamoto, and Kaoshimachuo Stations.
- Sakura: Only slightly slower than the Nozomi & Mizhuo, with the journey between Shin-Osaka and Hakata taking 2hr 39mins. Stops at Shin-Osaka, Shin-Kobe, Himeiji, Okayama, Fukuyama, Hiroshima, Shin-Yamaguchi, Kokura, Hakata, Shin-Tosu, Kurume, Kumamoto, Sendai, and Kaoshimachuo Stations.
Klook Tip: The Nozomi and Mizuho trains are not covered by the Japan Rail Pass. An additional special ticket will need to be purchased.
Booking your Shinkansen train ticket
Having gained a better understanding of the Tokaido and Sanyo Shinkansen lines, it’s time to start planning your journey. We will guide you through the process of booking tickets, selecting a seat class, and making necessary reservations.
For a convenient online booking of Tokaido and Sanyo Shinkansen tickets, Klook is a great choice! The benefits include potential discounts, a user-friendly booking process, and a wide selection of tickets. Klook also further simplifies access to your tickets by providing QR code ticket redemption.
Shinkansen Seat Class: Green Car vs Ordinary Car
When booking your Shinkansen tickets, you’ll have the option to choose between two different seat classes: Ordinary Car and Green Car. Specific features may vary depending on the type of train set:
- Green Cars: You'll get a more comfortable ride with wider seats and less crowded cars. All seats need to be reserved.
- Ordinary Cars: You'll still get a great travel experience at a more affordable price. You will also have the option to choose between reserved and non-reserved seats.
It's important to note that all cars come with free WiFi as well as storage areas above your seats. Considering your preferences and budget is important when choosing a seat class, as the Green Car option is more expensive than the Ordinary Car. Yet, the extra amenities and comfort might justify the additional cost, especially on longer journeys.
Shinkansen Ordinary Car: Reserved vs Non-Reserved Seats
If you're planning to travel in an Ordinary Car, you'll also have to choose between a Reserved or a Non-Reserved Seat. Each Shinkansen train will have a few cars meant for Non-Reserved Seats, such as onboard the Nozomi Train, cars 1 to 3 are for Non-Reserved Seats, while cars 4 to 16 will be for Reserved Seats.
You will be able to see on the LED display on each car if they are meant for Reserved or Non-Reserved seats. You may also refer to the labels at the platform doors for more information prior to train arrival.
- Reserved Seats: You will be assigned a dedicated seat on board one of the Reserved cars. The seat and car assignment will be on your Shinkansen ticket
- Non-Reserved Seats: You will only be allowed to board any of the Non-Reserved cars and take any available seat
How to Reserve a Seat with Mount Fuji View on Klook
Klook Tip: Secure a view of Mt Fuji by booking your Shinkansen tickets on Klook! You can select your seat preference “Window seat with Mt Fuji view”, instead of queueing at the train station to reserve a seat.
Shinkansen Luggage Storage
It’s important to be aware of the luggage restrictions when traveling on the Tokaido & Sanyo Shinkansen. There are no dedicated luggage storage areas on board the trains. Instead, you'll have to place them in the compartment above your seats or place your bags together with you at your seat.
Here are the restrictions for bringing your luggage on board the Shinkansen:
- Each passenger is allowed a maximum of two pieces of luggage, excluding small bags
- The weight limit is 30kg each
- The combined width, height, and depth limit is 250cm
- Passengers with oversized luggage (with dimensions totaling more than 160cm) are required to make a seat reservation for specific seats that offer nearby storage space
If you fail to reserve large luggage on the Shinkansen, you may incur a penalty fine of ¥1,000 per oversized bag. Thankfully in Japan, they’ve got you covered with a luggage forwarding service that can be easily arranged to have your luggage delivered from your hotel to the next.
Shinkansen Ticket Age Classification
If you're traveling as a family, you'll be glad to know that child tickets are available on the Shinkansen. The age categories are as follows:
- Adult ticket: 12 years old and above
- Child ticket: 6 to 11 years old. The ticket is half the price of an adult ticket
- Infants: 5 years old and below. No booking is required unless an adult is traveling with more than 2 children under 6 years old or if your child needs their own seat (in which case you'll need to book a child ticket)
#KlookTip: Child tickets are only available for Ordinary Cars on the Shinkansen. If you're traveling in the Green Car, you will need to book an adult ticket for your child.
Using your Shinkansen train ticket
Once you have your Shinkansen tickets, you’re nearly prepared for your high-speed journey. However, understanding how to use your tickets and navigate the boarding process is important before boarding the train! This section will explain the components of a Shinkansen ticket and guide you through boarding procedures.
Type of tickets: Base fare + Limited Express
A Shinkansen ticket consists of two parts: the base fare and the Limited Express fee. The base fare covers the cost of traveling from one station to another and is required for all train travel. The Limited Express fee is an additional charge applied when using the Shinkansen or Limited Express trains, covering the cost of the high-speed service. Sometimes, you may only get one ticket for your Shinkansen journey.
#KlookTip: If your journey involves multiple trains, you may receive more than two tickets. In this case, you’ll get a base fare ticket and a supplement ticket for each train. Remember to keep all your tickets, as they are needed for on-board ticket checks and for exiting the station at your destination.
How to Redeem Your Shinkansen Ticket
After purchasing your ticket on Klook, the process of using your ticket is pretty straightforward. Upon completing your booking, you’ll receive:
- A confirmation email from Klook
- The QR code, which you'll use to determine if you can board directly or will be required to collect physical tickets at the station
If You're Traveling between Tokyo and Osaka
Scan your QR Code on your Klook App to enter the JR Station and board your Shinkansen directly!
Good news if you are traveling on a route between Tokyo and Shin-Osaka, including Kyoto and Nagoya Stations, you can board the train directly via QR code after booking your tickets on Klook! There's no need to redeem a physical ticket at the train station.
If You're Taking Other Shinkansen Routes
On the day of travel, all you have to do is arrive at the Shinkansen Station a little earlier and follow these simple steps:
- Locate the SmartEx machines or the JR Tokai reserved ticket machines
- Click scan your QR code button and follow the instructions on the machine
- Retrieve your physical tickets - 2 tickets for each passenger
- Board the Shinkansen train and enjoy your journey!
Once you have arrived on the platform, take a look around and see if you can spot which cars have reserved or non-reserved seats. Bilingual signs should help you easily identify where you need to go. This will help you find the appropriate car for your ticket type.
Be mindful of fellow passengers and follow proper etiquette, such as waiting in line and allowing passengers to disembark before boarding. With these guidelines in mind, you’ll be well-prepared for your journey on the Tokaido and Sanyo Shinkansen lines.
More Japan Inspiration
🍣 Japan Essentials🍣
🚅Trains & Airport Transfers
📌Mobile Data & Metro Passes
What is Klook?
Klook is a world-leading travel and experiences platform, with over half a million offerings in over 2,700 destinations! Browse our growing collection of travel activities and services in 15 languages, and complete bookings seamlessly with 40 currencies and over 40 payment methods.
We're here to bring the world closer together through experiences. Whether it's something new in your neighborhood or an adventure abroad, with Klook you're always connected to a world of things to do and places to see.
