Intro
Traveling by Shinkansen is one of the easiest ways to explore Japan. Trains link cities like Tokyo, Osaka, Sendai, and Kanazawa in just a few hours, making long-distance travel feel pretty much effortless. But choosing the right train and understanding how the system works requires a closer look. Beneath the surface is a network of different services and train types, each designed with a specific purpose. In our latest JRPass.com guide, we take a special look at Japan's most famous trains.
From Vision to Velocity
The story of the Shinkansen begins long before its first train ever departed.
The term “Shinkansen,” meaning “new main line” in Japanese, was first used in 1940 to describe a plan to build a high-speed railway linking Tokyo and Shimonoseki—a city at the western tip of Honshu. Over the next few years, those plans dramatically expanded. The Ministry of Railways proposed to extend the route beyond Japan itself—northward to Beijing via a tunnel to Korea and southward into Southeast Asia, forming part of a vast “Greater East Asia Railroad.” The network was even ultimately envisioned to connect with the Trans-Siberian Railway.
But these ambitions were abandoned in 1943 as Japan’s strategic position in World War II worsened. Even so, construction had already begun, and several tunnels built during this period were later incorporated into what would become the modern Tokaido Shinkansen.
That being said, in the post-war period, the future of rail itself came into question. In the 1950s, prevailing opinion in Japan—mirroring those in the United States—held that railways would soon be replaced by highways and air travel. Yet Japan’s geography and urban density suggested otherwise. In the meantime, congestion along existing rail lines, particularly between Tokyo and Osaka, made clear that something needed to be done.
A solution arrived in 1964 with the opening of the Tokaido Shinkansen, timed to coincide with the Tokyo Olympics. The first trains, the 0 Series Shinkansen, reached speeds of up to 130 mph (210 km/h), dramatically reducing travel times and redefining travel.
From there, expansion continued steadily. The Sanyo Shinkansen extended west to Fukuoka by 1975. The Tohoku and Joetsu Shinkansen followed in the 1980s, pushing the network northward. The Hokuriku Shinkansen later connected Tokyo with the Sea of Japan’s coast, while the Kyushu Shinkansen opened in stages beginning in 2004. More recently, high-speed service has extended north via the Hokkaido Shinkansen which opened in 2016.
Service Types: How Fast and Where You Go
Knowing the difference here can help you choose the fastest route—or the most convenient one.
Nozomi
- Top speed: ~186 mph (300 km/h)
- Lines: Tokaido & Sanyo Shinkansen
- Operator: JR Central & JR West
- Stops: Limited
- Train length: typically 16 cars
The Nozomi is the fastest and most direct service on Japan’s busiest corridor, linking Tokyo, Nagoya, Kyoto, and Osaka. Designed for efficiency, it is favored by business travelers and those prioritizing speed. Its limited-stop pattern allows it to cover the Tokyo–Osaka route in around 2.5 hours.
That being said, it is not fully covered by the Japan Rail Pass and requires an additional surcharge.
Hikari
- Top speed: ~177 mph (285 km/h)
- Lines: Tokaido & Sanyo Shinkansen
- Operator: JR Central & JR West
- Stops: Moderate
- Train length: typically 16 cars
The Hikari offers a balance between speed and accessibility. While slightly slower than the Nozomi due to additional stops, it remains a fast and efficient option for long-distance travel. In practice, the difference in travel time is often modest, particularly on less crowded departures.
And importantly, it is fully covered by the Japan Rail Pass, making it the preferred choice for many international visitors.
Kodama
- Top speed: ~177 mph (285 km/h)
- Lines: Tokaido & Sanyo Shinkansen
- Operator: JR Central & JR West
- Stops: All stations
- Train length: typically 16 cars
The Kodama stops at every station along the route, connecting smaller cities that faster services bypass. While slower in terms of long-distance travel, it plays an essential role in regional connectivity.
For shorter trips, it can be a practical option—and often a less crowded one—offering a different perspective on the Shinkansen network.
Hayabusa
- Top speed: ~199 mph (320 km/h)
- Lines: Tohoku Shinkansen
- Operator: JR East
- Stops: Limited
- Train length: typically 10 cars
The Hayabusa represents the fastest service in northern Japan, connecting Tokyo with Sendai, Morioka, and Aomori at some of the highest speeds in the network. All seats are reserved, contributing to a quieter onboard environment.
Its speed and limited stops make it the primary option for long-distance travel to the Tohoku region.
Yamabiko
- Top speed: ~171 mph (275 km/h)
- Lines: Tohoku Shinkansen
- Operator: JR East
- Stops: Moderate
- Train length: typically 10 cars
The Yamabiko serves as a mid-speed option, stopping at more stations than the Hayabusa while still maintaining relatively fast travel times.
It plays a key role in connecting regional cities, offering flexibility for travelers not solely focused on speed.
Nasuno
- Top speed: ~171 mph (275 km/h)
- Lines: Tohoku Shinkansen
- Operator: JR East
- Stops: Local
- Train length: typically 10 cars
The Nasuno operates over shorter distances, primarily within the northern Kanto region. With frequent stops and shorter routes, it functions more as a local service within the high-speed network, bridging the gap between conventional rail and long-distance Shinkansen travel.
Mizuho
- Top speed: ~186 mph (300 km/h)
- Lines: Sanyo & Kyushu Shinkansen
- Operator: JR Kyushu & JR West
- Stops: Limited
- Train length: typically 8 cars
The Mizuho is the fastest service linking Osaka with Kagoshima, providing a direct connection between Honshu and southern Kyushu. Like the Nozomi, it prioritizes speed and limited stops, making it ideal for long-distance travel across western Japan.
Sakura
- Top speed: ~186 mph (300 km/h)
- Lines: Sanyo & Kyushu Shinkansen
- Operator: JR Kyushu & JR West
- Stops: Moderate
- Train length: typically 8 cars
The Sakura offers a more balanced alternative, combining relatively high speeds with additional stops across Kyushu. It is often considered one of the most comfortable services, with spacious interiors and a strong emphasis on passenger experience.
The Trains Themselves: Shinkansen Series
Each series represents a specific generation of design and engineering.
For passengers, these distinctions may not always be immediately obvious. But taken together, they tell a broader story, where each new model builds on the lessons of the last.
N700 Series Shinkansen
Introduced in the 2000s, the N700 series is the backbone of the Tokaido and Sanyo Shinkansen. It was the first to incorporate active tilting technology, allowing trains to maintain higher speeds when rounding curves without compromising comfort.
N700S
The N700S, or “Supreme,” represents the latest evolution of the N700. Introduced in 2020, it features improved energy efficiency, enhanced braking systems, and a modular design that allows for more train configurations. It is also designed with future integration in mind, including advanced monitoring technologies that may eventually replace dedicated inspection trains like Japan’s iconic Doctor Yellow.
E5 Series Shinkansen
The E5 series is one of the most visually distinctive trains in Japan, known for its elongated nose designed to reduce noise when entering tunnels at high speed. Operating primarily on the Hayabusa service, it reaches speeds of up to 199 mph (320 km/h), making it one of the fastest trains in the network. Its interior emphasizes comfort, particularly in its premium Green Car and Gran Class seating.
E6 Series Shinkansen
Designed for the Akita Shinkansen, the E6 series operates as part of the “mini-Shinkansen” concept—trains that can transition between high-speed lines and upgraded conventional tracks. Its smaller profile allows it to navigate narrower routes, extending high-speed connectivity into more rural areas.
E7 Series Shinkansen
Serving the Hokuriku Shinkansen, the E7 series combines modern performance with design elements inspired by traditional Japanese aesthetics. Its interiors emphasize space and comfort, reflecting the growing importance of passenger experience.
800 Series Shinkansen
The 800 series is unique to Kyushu, with interiors that incorporate wood and locally inspired design elements. It represents a shift toward regional identity within the Shinkansen network, in which trains are designed not just for efficiency, but also to reflect the culture of the areas they serve.
Beyond Steel Wheels: The Future of High-Speed Travel
The first segment of the Chuo Shinkansen, connecting Tokyo and Nagoya, is currently under development. When completed, it will reduce travel time between the two cities to around 40 minutes.
Originally slated to open in 2027, the Chuo Shinkansen has been delayed and is now expected to connect Tokyo and Nagoya by 2034, reducing travel time between the two cities to around 40 minutes. A further extension to Osaka is planned for 2037, completing a high-speed corridor across central Japan.
Pro Tips
For those inspired to continue their journey by rail, travelers can continue exploring Japan with a Japan Rail Pass, or choose a Regional Pass for shorter regional trips.
And wherever the road leads, Pocket Wi-Fi keeps essential information—from directions to weather forecasts—readily accessible.
First-time visitors to Japan might also appreciate Meet & Greet services, which can definitely help make things easier while you’re still getting your bearings in a city as big as Tokyo.
FAQs for Riding the Shinkansen
How do you use a Japan Rail Pass on the Shinkansen?
The Japan Rail Pass can be used on most Shinkansen services, including Hikari, Sakura, and Hayabusa. However, fastest services—such as the Nozomi and Mizuho—often do require an additional surcharge.
To use your pass, simply:
- Reserve a seat at a ticket office (Midori no Madoguchi) or ticket machine
- Or board a non-reserved car, where available
Seat reservations are free with the pass and recommended for busy travel periods.
Should you reserve seats on the Shinkansen?
It depends. Seat reservations are not always required, but they are often recommended if:
- Traveling during peak periods (holidays, weekends, evenings)
- Carrying oversized luggage
- Taking long-distance routes
For shorter trips or off-peak travel, non-reserved cars offer flexibility and are usually more cost effective.
What are the different seat types on the Shinkansen?
Shinkansen trains typically offer three main classes:
- Ordinary Car: Standard seating, similar to economy class on a plane
- Green Car: More spacious seats, quieter atmosphere, and additional legroom
- Gran Class: Available on select trains, offering premium seating and, on some routes, onboard service
Green Car tickets can be purchased separately or included with a Green Japan Rail Pass.
What amenities are available onboard the Shinkansen?
Most Shinkansen trains are designed for comfort and convenience, with amenities including:
- Wi-Fi (available on many trains)
- Power outlets (often at window seats or all seats on newer trains)
- Restrooms, including handicapped accessible facilities
- Overhead luggage racks and, on newer trains, reserved oversized luggage areas
- Reclining seats with tray tables
While layouts vary by train series, overall standards are consistently high across the network.
Is food service available on the Shinkansen?
Food service on the Shinkansen has changed in recent years.
Traditional trolley service (where attendants pushed carts through the aisles selling food and drinks) has been reduced or discontinued on many routes, particularly on the Tokaido Shinkansen.
Today, options typically include:
- Purchasing food before boarding (such as ekiben, or train station bento boxes)
- Limited onboard sales or vending machines on select trains
- Mobile ordering services on some routes
For most travelers, bringing food onboard remains the most reliable and popular option.
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