Blog posts

E7 or W7? Same train, two owners. Learn how Japan's snow-country Shinkansen handles winter, which Gran Class trains serve meals, and what tickets cost.

Doai's downbound platform sits 70 metres inside a mountain, reached only by a 486-step staircase. Meet Japan's 'mole station' and its strange siblings.

The long-nosed green E5 is the face of the Tohoku Shinkansen, running Japan's fastest scheduled services with first-class Gran Class on board. Meet the machine.

A JRPass guide to 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Lawson & More to help you answer the question, which Japanese convenience store Is best - or rather which is the best for your trip?

Japan has updated Its Disaster Warning System with alert levels added to warning names, new Level 4 urgent warnings, and new Level 5 flood emergency warning.

A calico cat named Tama became stationmaster of a struggling rural railway and turned it into a phenomenon. Discover her remarkable story and how to visit Kishi Station today.

Japan's stations are famously spotless, yet finding a bin can feel like a treasure hunt. Here's why trash cans are limited, and what to do with your rubbish.

The Seven Stars train in Kyushu is a luxury hotel on rails, with suites, dining and multi-day journeys. Discover how booking works, what it costs and JR Pass alternatives.

The Joetsu Shinkansen links Tokyo with Niigata through Japan's legendary snow country. Discover the Toki and Tanigawa trains, key stops, ski access and JR Pass coverage.

Why do Japanese train drivers wear white gloves? Discover how this crisp detail improves safety, visibility and precision — and what it reveals about Japanese railway culture.