JRPassOrder Your JR Pass
How Fast Is the Shinkansen? How Fast Is the Shinkansen?

How Fast Is The Shinkansen? Bullet Train Speeds Explained

The Shinkansen's speed is so well-known that even individuals who know nothing about trains know about Japan's famous 'bullet trains', but just how fast are they really? Find out here.
The Tokaido Lumière ExpressThe Tokaido Lumière Express

The Tokaido Lumière Express: How Japan Reimagined The Sleeper Train

When is a sleeper train not a sleeper train? Find out in our guide to the brand new Tokaido Lumière Express 'bullet train' launching in August 2026.
Shinkansen Green CarShinkansen Green Car

Shinkansen Green Car: What You Get And Whether It’s Worth Upgrading

The Shinkansen Green Car offers more legroom, wider seats, and a quieter carriage, but is it worth the extra cost over Ordinary? Here’s the honest answer.
Gran Class ShinkansenGran Class Shinkansen

Gran Class Shinkansen: Is Japan’s First Class Train Experience Worth It?

Gran Class is Japan's first-class Shinkansen seat. wider than business class, with meal service and attendants. Here's what's included and when it's worth paying for.
History of the ShinkansenHistory of the Shinkansen

History Of The Shinkansen: How Japan Built The Bullet Train

Discover the story of how Japan's famous bullet trains, known as Shinkansen, were built in this special guide.
Nozomi vs Hikari vs KodamaNozomi vs Hikari vs Kodama

Nozomi Vs Hikari Vs Kodama: Which Shinkansen Should You Take?

All three services run on the same track — the Tokaido Shinkansen — connecting Tokyo with Osaka and beyond to Hiroshima and Fukuoka, but differences lie in speed, stop frequency, and Japan Rail Pass coverage for international visitors, especially.
First Time on ShinkansenFirst Time on Shinkansen

First Time On Shinkansen: What To Expect On Japan’s Bullet Train

The Seven-Minute MiracleThe Seven-Minute Miracle

The Seven Minute Miracle: How The Shinkansen Cleaning Crew Turns Trains Around In Minutes

The “seven-minute miracle” refers to the standard cleaning of a 16-car Shinkansen at a terminus station, most famously at Tokyo Station. Find out more here.
The Shinkansen Seat GuideThe Shinkansen Seat Guide

The Shinkansen Seat Guide: How To Pick The Right Seat For Views, Legroom, And Comfort

Welcome to the Shinkansen Seat Guide: How to Pick the Right Seat for Views, Legroom, and Comfort. After all, choosing a Shinkansen seat isn’t just a small detail—it can change how comfortable, quiet, or scenic your journey feels.
Shinkansen vs Plane in JapanShinkansen vs Plane in Japan

Shinkansen Vs Plane In Japan: Which Is Really Faster, Cheaper, And Better In 2026?

The Shinkansen vs plane decision in Japan depends heavily on the route you’re taking. What looks faster on paper often changes once you factor in airport transfers, security time, and station access. Let's take a closer look.

Find out where to buy the japan rail pass online.

Order your JRPass Now!

We have special prices for children and great first class options. See all tickets or see our range of Regional Passes