Experience the Speed and Convenience: The Shinkansen Bullet Train and JR Pass
Hello Gorgeous!
Are you dreaming of exploring the captivating landscapes and vibrant cities of Japan? As you plan your journey, you may find yourself faced with a crucial decision: should you opt for the iconic Shinkansen bullet train experience or invest in a Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) for unlimited rail travel?
In this comprehensive guide, we aim to assist you in making an informed choice that aligns perfectly with your travel aspirations. Join us as we delve into the world of the Shinkansen, uncover the advantages of the JR Pass, and provide valuable insights to help you decide the best way to navigate Japan's unique transportation system. We will also learn the latest new technology of the upcoming train in Japan. Prepare to embark on a memorable adventure through the Land of the Rising Sun!
Should I take the Shinkansen / Bullet Train ?
There are many transportations in Japan; the Shinkansen bullet train is excellent for long-haul travel across Japan. Not only is it the fastest train in the world, but it is also the safest, with zero fatal accidents. However, the price isn’t exactly cheap; it may be cheaper to fly than take the train, and most likely more expensive than buses and local trains. Therefore, if you are trying to decide if taking the Shinkansen is worth it, it will depend on various factors.
Shinkansen trains are known for their high speed and punctuality. If you want to reach your destination quickly and efficiently, especially when traveling long distances between major cities in Japan, the Shinkansen is an excellent choice. This is helpful when you have a tight schedule as well as if you want to be spontaneous, as the frequent departures and reliable arrival times can be beneficial. Flying is also an option for speed, but you must consider the limitations of flying with luggage, security check, and time needed in the airport.
Shinkansen stations are usually located in or near city centers, making them easily accessible. They offer amenities such as luggage storage, comfortable seating, and onboard facilities, including food and drink options. If convenience is important to you, the Shinkansen can be a favorable option.
If you enjoy scenic views during your journey, the Shinkansen can provide a unique experience. The trains travel at high speeds, but the large windows offer glimpses of the passing landscapes, including mountains, countryside, and urban areas.
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How to get the JR pass?
The JR Pass is available only to foreign tourists visiting Japan on a temporary visitor visa (usually for up to 90 days). Japanese citizens and foreign residents of Japan are not eligible. The JR Pass comes in various durations (7, 14, or 21 consecutive days) and classes (ordinary or green). Choose the pass that best suits your travel plans and preferences.
You can purchase the pass online before your trip. The benefit of this is that you get a cheaper price by planning ahead. You will need a few days to receive the voucher in your mail, then exchange the voucher to the actual pass in a JR office when you arrive in Japan. Which means if you are planning your trip last minute, you will need to have the ticket be sent to your hotel in Japan, or directly purchase JR pass in Japan. You can purchase JR pass in Japan until March 31, 2024 (at a higher price vs online). You can purchase JR pass online here or any authorized travel agencies.
You can locate a Japan Rail Pass exchange office at major airports, including Narita, Haneda, and Kansai. As well as major train stations. To receive your pass from online order, present your Exchange Order, along with your passport, and complete the necessary paperwork.
Once you have the JR Pass, you can use it on most Japan Railways (JR) trains, including the shinkansen (bullet trains) and local JR lines. Some restrictions may apply to certain trains, such as the Nozomi and Mizuho shinkansen, which are not covered by the pass.
Remember to carry your passport with you while using the JR Pass, as you may be required to present it when using the pass. Also it is a requirement for foreigners to carry your passport with you at all times in Japan.
Should I get the pass?
Currently, the answer is yes; as long you are taking more than 1 Shinkansen, the price for the price will be worth it. However, the prices of JR pass change on October 2023. Therefore if you are traveling in Japan after this date, you may need more rides on the Shinkansen to make the JR pass worth it. Calculate the cost and compare; additionally, factor in any local transportation expenses not covered by the JR Pass.
Generally the JR Pass is most beneficial for travelers who plan to explore multiple regions or cities in Japan, particularly if they involve long-distance travel. If you're visiting Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, and other major cities, the JR Pass can be cost-effective, as it covers the Shinkansen (bullet trains) and other JR lines. However, if you're primarily staying in a single city or a limited area, the pass may not offer significant savings.
The JR Pass is available for 7, 14, or 21 consecutive days. To make the most of the pass, you should plan to travel extensively during the pass validity period. If you're staying in Japan for a shorter period or have limited travel plans, it might be more economical to purchase individual tickets instead of the JR Pass.
The JR Pass provides flexibility, allowing you to hop on and off trains without worrying about purchasing separate tickets. It can be convenient if you want to be spontaneous with your travel plans. However, if you prefer a more structured itinerary and have fixed travel dates, purchasing individual tickets in advance may be more suitable.
Depending on your travel plans, it may be worth exploring regional passes offered by JR or other local transportation companies. These passes provide unlimited travel within a specific region and can be more cost-effective if you're mainly exploring one area.
Costs are slightly different base on where you make the purchase, you can purchase JR pass here
What does the JR pass include?
The JR Pass covers most shinkansen lines, including the popular Tokaido Shinkansen (connecting Tokyo, Nagoya, Kyoto, and Osaka), the Sanyo Shinkansen (connecting Osaka and Hiroshima), and the Tohoku Shinkansen (connecting Tokyo and cities in northern Japan). However, it does not cover the Nozomi and Mizuho shinkansen services.
Reservations to JR trains are free with the JR pass, if you are purchasing Shinkansen tickets without a pass, reservation tickets are at a higher price than non-reserve tickets.
The pass includes unlimited rides on limited express trains operated by JR, as well as local and rapid trains operated by JR within its coverage area. This allows you to explore various regions and cities at your own pace.
Some JR Passes include ferry services operated by JR, such as the Miyajima Ferry to Miyajima Island near Hiroshima.
It's important to note that the JR Pass does not cover all transportation services in Japan. It is not valid for private railway lines, subways, buses (except for certain JR bus services), or non-JR transportation options. Additionally, while the JR Pass covers most JR-operated services, there may be certain exceptions or restrictions depending on the specific train or route.
What JR trains require reservation?
Most Shinkansen and Limited Express Trains do not need reservation. There are several lines that are reservation only including: Hayabusa, Narita Exp. Kagayaki, Hayate, and Komachi lines. If you are unsure, any of the JR offices will be able to confirm if a train requires reservation, and help you make reservation as well.
If you have oversized luggage, you must also make a reservation for oversized luggage seating. Oversize luggage is luggage that is larger than regular check-in luggage for airplanes. This means for most of us; you can take your luggage with you at your seat on Shinkansen. But do utilize the luggage storage area when there is one.
If you have a Japan Rail Pass with Green Car (first-class) access or if you purchase a Green Car ticket, reservations are mandatory, of course, the seats are more spacious and comfortable. For overnight sleeper trains like the Sunrise Seto/Izumo, which provide accommodations for long-distance travel, reservations are necessary due to limited availability and specific sleeping arrangements.
It's important to note that while reservations are not always mandatory, they are highly recommended during peak travel periods, weekends, and holidays to secure a seat, especially on popular routes. Reservations can be made at JR ticket offices or through the JR Pass reservation system.
Here are peak seasons that would be best to make reservations ahead of time:
April 27 to May 6
August 11-20
December 28 to January 6
Accelerate your Japan trip planning with a full Japan Map here.
How to make train reservations with my JR pass?
You can make reservation with any of these JR offices, or at JR machines outside of the JR offices. Locate a JR ticket office at any major JR station. These ticket offices are usually labeled as "Midori-no-madoguchi." Look for the green sign with the Midori-no-madoguchi logo. See a full list of JR offices here.
For JR offices:
Present your JR Pass to the staff and details such as travel date, departure and arrival time/station, and desired seating preference (e.g., reserved or non-reserved, window or aisle). If you have a Green Car Pass, mention that you want a seat in the Green Car (first class) if available. It's helpful to have alternative options in case your preferred train is fully booked.
The staff will process your reservation request and provide you with a reservation ticket. This ticket will indicate your train details, seat number, and other relevant information. Keep this ticket safe, as you'll need it when boarding the train.
For JR machines:
Look for the JR ticket machines at any JR station. These machines are usually green and prominently displayed.
Choose the preferred language: Many JR machines offer language options. Select your preferred language to proceed with the ticket purchase process.
Select “Japan Rail Pass” at the left bottom of the screen.
Depending on the machine, you may need to insert your JR Pass into the designated slot or place it on the designated area for scanning. Follow the instructions on the screen to complete this step.
Select your destination: Use the touchscreen or buttons to choose your desired departure, destination and time. Remember Nozomi and Mizuho shinkansen are not included with JR pass.
Confirm the details and make the booking: Review the details displayed on the screen, including the train type, departure time, and seat class (reserved or non-reserved). If everything is correct, proceed to confirm your booking.
Once the booking is confirmed, the machine will print your Shinkansen ticket. Remember to collect your ticket from the machine.
Before boarding the train, look for the green ticket-validation machines located near the platforms or entrances. Insert your reservation ticket into the machine to have it validated. When you are taking Shinkansen, you need to input both JR pass and Shinkansen reservation ticket together into the machine, then retrieve both tickets back at the end of the machine. On arrival, do the same, but you will only retrieve your JR pass at the end of the journey.
Reservations can be made up to one month in advance, and availability may vary depending on the train and route. During peak travel seasons or popular routes, it's advisable to make reservations as early as possible to secure your seat.
While the JR Pass allows you to make seat reservations free of charge, it's important to note that it does not guarantee seat availability, particularly during busy periods. Therefore, it's recommended to plan your travel itinerary in advance and make reservations accordingly.
How to get the JR Pass in Japan?
JR pass are sold in JR offices at train stations, as well as airports. Here is a list of JR offices. Do note that Airport JR offices tends to be busy, but not to worry, unless you need the JR pass right away, you can simply get them at other JR offices, which will be much less busy.
Buying the pass in Japan is only possible at certain train stations and airports and for a limited time, until March 31, 2024. It's not clear if it will be possible to buy the JR Pass in person after this time period.
What will be faster than the current world’s fastest bullet train?
Currently, the Shinkansen has the world’s fastest train, but soon an even speedier train will be available. The Maglev train will be available in Japan in a few short years. They are superconducting magnetic trains developed since the 1970s. The main thing about this train is that it will be wheelless, with the power of magnetic repulsion between cars and the track. An electrodynamic suspension system achieves a levitating train with no friction.
The levitation only works when the train is at high speed. Therefore, the train would rest on rubber wheels when stopped and moves forward with wheels until the magnetic force is strong enough at around 93 miles per hour; then, the magnetic force becomes in effect, taking the train 4 inches off the ground and continuing to higher speeds. The magnetic force helps align the train in the center of the guideway and keeps the train repulsed from other trains or accidents, maintaining the record of the safest train in the world.
The Maglev train in Japan will go as fast as 375 miles per hour, much quicker than the existing Maglev trains in China or Korea, also at a much greater speed than the existing fastest Shinkansen trains at 275 miles per hour.
Img source: Saruno Hirobano / wiki
When and what routes can I take the fastest train on Earth?
You can take the new fastest train on Earth in Japan as early as 2027. The route will link Tokyo and Nagoya, shorting the trip to only 40 minutes, which is faster than flying. This train will be included in the JR pass. The route includes Shinagawa, Sagamihara, Kofu, Lida, and Nakatsugawa stops. The course will extend to Osaka, providing a way to take less than an hour's ride. It is expected to be operating by 2045.
Accelerate your Japan trip planning with a full Japan Map here.
Christine
