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Shinkansen map

The Shinkansen bullet train network covers the length of Japan, and Trip.com is an official reseller for JR East, JR West, and JR Central, covering nearly 90% of all routes. Here's a rundown of some of the most popular routes.

Shinkansen map

JR East: This operator connects the capital to Aomori (autumn foliage and hot springs) and Niigata (skiing at Echigo-Yuzawa) with its Tohoku Shinkansen and Joetsu Shinkansen. The line goes through rural Fukushima and Miyagi.

JR West: Operating the Sanyo and Hokuriku Shinkansen, JR West links Osaka to Hiroshima (Itsukushima Shrine) and Kyoto to Kanazawa (Kenroku-en Garden). The Sanyo section runs along the Seto Inland Sea coast.

JR Central: JR Central runs Japan's busiest line, with its Tokaido Shinkansen connecting Tokyo to Osaka and Nagoya, passing through Shizuoka at the foot of Mount Fuji. Departures are the most frequent of any Shinkansen.

JR Kyushu: The Kyushu Shinkansen runs from Hakata down to Kagoshima-Chuo, taking in Kumamoto (Kumamoto Castle) and Kagoshima (Sakurajima volcano). The line passes through the Aso volcanic region and several hot spring towns.

JR Hokkaido: This operator runs the Hokkaido Shinkansen from Tokyo as far as Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto (for nighttime views from Mount Hakodate), with the extension to Sapporo still under construction. The route is covered in snow during winter.

JR Shikoku: While it has no Shinkansen, the network connects to Honshu via the Seto‑Ohashi Line, with Marine Liner rapid services between Okayama and Takamatsu and limited express trains to Matsuyama. Shikoku is renowned for the 88‑temple Pilgrimage.

JR Pass (Japan Rail Pass)

The Japan Rail Pass (known as the JR Pass) is a discounted rail pass for foreign tourists and gives you unlimited rides on most JR trains for a 7-,14-, or 21-day period.

JR Pass (Japan Rail Pass) Prices and Costs

TypeGreenOrdinary
DurationAdultChild (6–11)AdultChild (6–11)
7 days70,000 YEN*35000 YEN50,000 YEN25,000 YEN
14 days110,000 YEN55,000 YEN80,000 YEN40,000 YEN
21 days140,000 YEN70,000 YEN100,000 YEN50,000 YEN
*Prices for the JR Pass and Shinkansen bullet train tickets are set in Japanese Yen (JPY), so the cost in different currencies can fluctuate depending on the exchange rate.

How to book and use Japan train tickets with Trip.com

Search for trains

STEP 1

Search for trains

Enter your origin and destination, select your travel dates, and number of passengers. Add a return date if needed to see Shinkansen schedules on Trip.com.

Select your departure and seat class

STEP 2

Select your departure and seat class

Pick your departure time and choose Ordinary or Green Car class. Click through and complete the passenger details in the form.

Pay securely

STEP 3

Pay securely

Complete your booking and pay in your chosen currency with secure payment methods, including credit/debit cards, Apple Pay, PayPal, and Google Pay.

Receive your QR code

STEP 04

Receive your QR code

Receive your e-tickets and itinerary details via email or through the Trip.com app. Confirmation is instant as soon as payment is complete.

Enter the station

STEP 05

Enter the station

For most journeys, you can go through the ticket gates by scanning your QR code. If needed, you can easily print tickets at the ticket machine.

Board the train

STEP 06

Board the train

Scan your QR code or insert your paper ticket into the barriers to access the platforms and board the train.

Shinkansen seat classes & reservations

In Japan, bullet trains—known as Shinkansen—are normally divided into two main classes: Ordinary (standard) and Green (first). Some trains have an extra Gran Class (luxury). Exact features vary by operator. Here's what to expect:

Ordinary Car (standard)

Ordinary Car (standard)

  • 2+3 seating2+3 seating
  • Reserved or Non-Reserved seatsReserved or Non-Reserved seats
  • Standard comfort and supportStandard comfort and support
  • Power outletsPower outlets
  • Free Wi-FiFree Wi-Fi
  • Toilets availableToilets available
  • Luggage storageLuggage storage
Green Car (first class)

Green Car (first class)

  • 2+2 seating2+2 seating
  • Reserved seatsReserved seats
  • Spacious with wide seats and extra legroomSpacious with wide seats and extra legroom
  • Power outletsPower outlets
  • Free Wi-FiFree Wi-Fi
  • Restrooms availableRestrooms available
  • Personal reading lightsPersonal reading lights
  • Quieter, premium atmosphereQuieter, premium atmosphere
  • Perfect for business travellers and those seeking a more relaxing journeyPerfect for business travellers and those seeking a more relaxing journey
Gran Class (luxury business class)

Gran Class (luxury business class)

  • 1+2 seating1+2 seating
  • Ultra spacious and reclining leather seatsUltra spacious and reclining leather seats
  • Power outletsPower outlets
  • Free Wi-FiFree Wi-Fi
  • Complimentary water, snacks, and wet towels (*Not available on "GranClass (No Beverage or Light Meal Service)" trains)Complimentary water, snacks, and wet towels (*Not available on "GranClass (No Beverage or Light Meal Service)" trains)
  • Dedicated attendant service on most servicesDedicated attendant service on most services
  • Luxury amenities like slippersLuxury amenities like slippers
  • More privacy and spaceMore privacy and space
  • Top choice for luxury. Only available on certain lines (like Hokuriku).Top choice for luxury. Only available on certain lines (like Hokuriku).

Choosing between Reserved and Non-Reserved

Reserved seats
  • Slightly more expensive but guarantee you a seat.
  • Ideal for families and groups travelling at peak season and wanting to sit together
Non-Reserved seats
  • Allow you to board any train but without a guaranteed seat
  • Seating is first-come, first-served in designated carriages.
Top tips
  • Choose Reserved seats if you don't want to stand
  • Recommended for popular routes like Tokyo to Kyoto and at popular times of year

Select your seat preference and book your tickets

Choose from various seat preferences on Shinkansen, limited express, and other trains. First-time bookers enjoy free seat selection!

  • Mount Fuji view seats

    Mount Fuji view seats

    Selected window seats offering magnificent views of Mount Fuji along the way. We recommend seats on the right for the Tokyo–Osaka route, or seats on the left for the Osaka–Tokyo route, subject to the specific train and direction. You can select Mount Fuji view seats on Trip.com.

  • Oversized luggage seats (train end seats/rear seats)

    Oversized luggage seats (train end seats/rear seats)

    Spacious seats located at the end of the carriage, close to the oversized luggage storage area for easy access to suitcases. Suitable for passengers with 26" or larger luggage. Advance booking is recommended.

  • Window seats

    Window seats

    Enjoy private window views and immerse yourself in the scenic journey. Suitable for sightseeing, photography, or travellers seeking a quiet space away from aisle traffic.

  • Double seats/adjacent seats

    Double seats/adjacent seats

    Adjacent seats ensure travelling companions sit together. Suitable for couples, families, or friends travelling together to share the journey.

  • Aisle seats

    Aisle seats

    Next to the aisle, offering easy access to get in and out, move around, or use the toilets. Suitable for passengers who need to walk around frequently during their trip.

  • Train desk/table seats

    Train desk/table seats

    Equipped with a folding table that can be used for work, dining, or holding items when unfolded. Suitable for business travel or passengers who need to work during their trip.

  • Work seats/business work seats

    Work seats/business work seats

    Specially designed for travellers on business trips, featuring spacious seats equipped with a power outlet and a table for laptop work. Located in a quiet area to minimise travel disturbances.

*Available seat types are subject to actual train information. If your seat booking fails, we will fully refund the booking fee for your seat preference. We will also do our best to ensure your group members can sit together.

JR seat reservation guide

<span>Step 1</span><h3>Select your departure and seat class</h3>

Step 1

Select your departure and seat class

Select a departure time, choose the Ordinary car or Green car class, and click the "Continue" button to confirm.

<span>Step 2</span><h3>Enter passenger information and seat preferences</h3>

Step 2

Enter passenger information and seat preferences

On the "Passenger info" page, the highlighted section in the image is the seat reservation module, where you can select your seat preference. After filling in all the information, click the "Continue" button.

JR transfer guide

Train transfer guide for Kyoto Station

<span>Step 1</span><h3>Downstairs</h3>

Step 1

Downstairs

Get off at the Shinkansen platform and go down to the 2nd floor.

<span>Step 2</span><h3>Find the transfer gate</h3>

Step 2

Find the transfer gate

Follow the signs for "Transfer" to the JR transfer gate.

<span>Step 3</span><h3>Go through the transfer gate</h3>

Step 3

Go through the transfer gate

Insert the conventional line ticket and your Shinkansen tickets together into the Shinkansen transfer gate. Don't forget to take your next ticket back. (If you have 4 or more tickets, use the manned gate and show them to the station staff.)

<span>Step 04</span><h3>To the JR Line platform</h3>

Step 04

To the JR Line platform

After exiting the transfer gate, follow the signs to your platform.

Transfer guide for Shin-Osaka Station

  • Shinkansen → JR Lines

  • JR Lines → Shinkansen

<span>Step 1</span><h3>Head down to the 3rd floor</h3>

Step 1

Head down to the 3rd floor

Alight at the Shinkansen platform on the 4th floor, and find an escalator, lift, or stairs to go down one level to the Shinkansen concourse on the 3rd floor.

<span>Step 2</span><h3>Find the transfer gate</h3>

Step 2

Find the transfer gate

On the 3rd-floor concourse, do not follow the "Exit" signs. Look up and follow the "Transfer to JR Lines" signs to the dedicated transfer ticket gates on the 3rd floor. Please do not exit the station.

<span>Step 3</span><h3>Go down to the JR platforms</h3>

Step 3

Go down to the JR platforms

After passing through the transfer gates, you will find yourself directly inside the 3rd-floor transfer area for JR conventional lines. Check the overhead electronic screens to find the platform number for the JR line you want to take, then take the stairs/escalator down to the JR platforms on the 1st floor to board your train.

Refunds and changes for Shinkansen tickets

The Shinkansen refund and change policy offers flexibility, though fees may apply depending on your ticket type.

  • JR Central

  • JR East

  • JR West

Refund policy

Rule categoryRule details
Ticket refund hours
4:30 AM–10:25 PM CST
Ticket refund deadline
1 hour or more before departure: Ticket refunds permitted.
Within 1 hour after departure and after departure: Ticket refunds not permitted.
Cancellation handling fee
Before departure: JPY 320/person (regardless of ticket type). Basic fare ticket + seat ticket: Ticket refund fee is JPY 320/person.
After departure: Ticket refunds are not permitted.
Refundable amount is subject to actual situation.
Pre-sale ticket
Free cancellation is permitted before tickets are issued.

Change policy

Rule categoryRule details
Ticket change hours
4:30 AM–10:25 PM CST.
Ticket change deadline
1 hour or more before departure: Changes permitted.
Within 1 hour before departure and after departure: Changes not permitted.
Number of changes
Unlimited.
Permitted change types
  1. Change itinerary and departure time (including modifying ticket type).
  2. Any ticket fare difference will be refunded or charged accordingly.
  3. No processing fee for changes.

Best time to visit Japan

Planning a getaway to Japan? Our monthly Japan travel guide will help you plan the perfect trip based on weather, seasonal scenery, major festivals, and your travel interests. From the cherry blossoms in Ueno Park and Maruyama Park to the autumn foliage of Arashiyama and the winter snowscapes of Niseko, Japan can be explored in all four seasons. Browse recommended cities, popular attractions, and seasonal events to find the ideal time and destination for your Japan trip.

  • January
  • February
  • March
  • April
  • May
  • June
  • July
  • August
  • September
  • October
  • November
  • December

Recommended destinations

Hokkaido (Sapporo), Tokyo

Recommended attractions

  • Sapporo White Illumination (some venues remain open until February, subject to the official schedule for that year)
  • Sensō-ji (New Year Hatsumode)
  • Kyoto Fushimi Inari Taisha

Events and festivals

  • Hatsumode (New Year's Day to early January)
  • Coming of Age Day (the second Monday in January)
  • Sapporo Snow Festival is usually held in early February. Keep an eye out in advance.

Travel tips

Japan's coldest month. Temperatures in Hokkaido can drop below -10°C. A thick down jacket and thermal underwear are essential. Around New Year's Day, some stores, restaurants, and attractions have shortened hours or are closed. If planning long-distance travel across multiple cities, check if passes like the JR Pass are cost-effective (not applicable to all itineraries). Verify the latest ticket types and rules before purchasing.

Recommended destinations

Hokkaido (Sapporo, Otaru), Nagano

Recommended attractions

  • Sapporo Snow Festival main venue
  • Otaru Snow Light Path
  • Jigokudani Monkey Park (snow monkeys bathing in hot springs)

Events and festivals

  • Sapporo Snow Festival (usually held in early February, subject to the official announcement for that year)
  • Otaru Snow Light Path (usually mid-February)
  • Setsubun (usually early February, bean-throwing to ward off evil spirits)

Travel tips

Hokkaido is extremely cold in winter, so wearing slip-resistant shoes is recommended. Hotels are in high demand during the snow festival, so booking 1–2 months in advance is recommended. If you plan to take multiple long-distance train trips, compare the prices and applicable coverage of the JR Pass and single tickets in advance, and reserve reserved seats for popular times as early as possible.

Recommended destinations

Recommended attractions

  • Tokyo Meguro River (early cherry blossoms)
  • Nagoya Castle (plum blossoms/early cherry blossoms)
  • Fukuoka Maizuru Park

Events and festivals

  • Kyushu's cherry blossoms bloom early (prelude to the cherry blossom season)
  • Hinamatsuri (March 3, Girls' Day)
  • White Day (March 14)

Travel tips

Temperatures rise (daytime highs approx. 10–17°C, but mornings and evenings remain cool at approx. 5–8°C), with noticeable temperature differences between the north and south. Kyushu is typically one of the earlier regions to enter cherry blossom season. Hotel prices increase during cherry blossom season, so book early.

Recommended destinations

Kyoto, Tokyo, Nara

Recommended attractions

  • Kyoto Tetsugaku No Michi (cherry blossoms)
  • Tokyo Ueno Park
  • Nara Park (Kasuga Taisha cherry blossoms)

Events and festivals

  • Cherry blossoms in full bloom (full bloom in Kanto/Kansai)
  • Hanami (cherry blossom viewing picnic)
  • Prelude to Golden Week

Travel tips

A popular season for cherry blossom viewing and travel in Japan. The main cherry blossom viewing periods in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Nara are mostly concentrated from late March to early April, with exact dates depending on that year's cherry blossom forecast. Temperatures are comfortable (approx. 15–20°C). The cherry blossom viewing period is short, and popular attractions draw large crowds, so travelling during off-peak times is recommended.

Recommended destinations

Kyoto, Hokkaido, Okinawa Prefecture

Recommended attractions

  • Kyoto Arashiyama (fresh greenery)
  • Hokkaido Furano (spring cherry blossoms, lupins, and other spring flowers)
  • Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium

Events and festivals

  • Golden Week (late April to early May, with core holidays including Apr 29 and May 3–5)
  • In Okinawa Prefecture, keep an eye out for local boat races, traditional festivals, and other events. Specific dates are subject to official announcements.

Travel tips

Golden Week is a peak time for domestic travel in Japan. Transport and accommodations are in high demand, and prices increase. We recommend booking popular routes and stays as early as possible. Keeping an eye out and planning 1–3 months in advance is recommended for Golden Week. The weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities.

Recommended destinations

Tokyo, Hokkaido, Okinawa Prefecture

Recommended attractions

  • Tokyo Hakusan Shrine (Hydrangea Festival)
  • Hokkaido Biei (June mainly features early flowers such as lupins and poppies, with lavender reaching full bloom in July)
  • Okinawa Kerama Islands (peak snorkelling season)

Events and festivals

  • Kanto and Kansai usually enter the rainy season around June
  • Hydrangea festivals (held at temples in various regions, with blooming periods varying by region, variety, and weather)
  • Hokkaido enters its peak season

Travel tips

Honshu is rainy and humid, so rain gear is essential. The rainy season in Okinawa usually ends earlier, making it a great time for an island getaway. Hokkaido typically has no distinct rainy season, and the weather is relatively comfortable (approx. 15–22°C), making it ideal for escaping the summer heat. Check the short-term weather forecast for your destination before travelling.

Recommended destinations

Kyoto, Osaka, Tohoku (Aomori/Akita)

Recommended attractions

  • Kyoto Fushimi Inari
  • Osaka Castle
  • Tohoku region natural attractions (summer retreat)

Events and festivals

  • Gion Matsuri (July, Kyoto's largest festival, spanning the entire month)
  • Tenjin Matsuri (core events usually on Jul 24–25, Osaka)
  • Aomori Nebuta Festival (early August). Consider booking your travel and accommodation in advance.

Travel tips

It is generally hot and humid nationwide (central and southern Honshu can reach 30–35°C), so be sure to prevent heatstroke and stay hydrated. Hokkaido is relatively cool (approx. 20–25°C), making it a popular destination to escape the heat. Transport is congested around the Obon Festival (mid-August), so we recommend planning early.

Recommended destinations

Hokkaido, Tohoku (Aomori/Akita/Yamagata)

Recommended attractions

  • Hokkaido Furano (lavender fields)
  • Aomori Nebuta Festival venue
  • Akita Kanto Festival venue

Events and festivals

  • Aomori Nebuta Festival (usually Aug 2–7)
  • Akita Kanto Festival (usually Aug 3–6)
  • Sendai Tanabata Festival (usually Aug 6–8)
  • Yamagata Hanagasa Festival (usually Aug 5–7)
  • Obon is usually in mid-August

Travel tips

The four major summer festivals in Tohoku are held at the same time, making it the best time to experience Japanese summer festivals. Shinkansen/flights are in high demand around the Obon Festival, so be sure to book in advance. Tohoku and Hokkaido are generally cooler than central and southern Honshu, but be sure to protect yourself from the heat and sun.

Recommended destinations

Kyoto, Hokkaido, Kamakura

Recommended attractions

  • High-altitude areas such as Daisetsuzan in Hokkaido and Tateyama Kurobe may enter the autumn foliage season earlier
  • Tokyo, Kyoto, and other areas still primarily focus on city sightseeing, food, and early autumn experiences

Events and festivals

  • Higan (around the autumn equinox in September)
  • Chushu no Meigetsu (moon gazing)
  • High-altitude areas in Hokkaido and places like Mount Tate may enter the autumn foliage season earlier

Travel tips

September is prone to typhoons, so check typhoon updates and weather forecasts before travelling. The temperature difference between day and night gradually increases. Early autumn foliage can be seen in high-altitude areas of Hokkaido starting from late August, while most parts of Honshu have typically not yet entered the peak viewing period for autumn foliage.

Recommended destinations

Kyoto, Tokyo, Tohoku

Recommended attractions

  • Tohoku Oirase keiryū Gorge, Hakkoda, and Lake Towada (autumn foliage)
  • Kyoto Arashiyama (early autumn scenery)

Events and festivals

  • Sports Day (the second Monday in October)
  • Autumn foliage in Tohoku and Hokkaido gradually reaches its peak
  • Autumn festivals in various regions

Travel tips

Temperatures are comfortable (approx. 15–22°C, with noticeable differences between the north and south), and the clear weather is perfect for travel. Autumn foliage advances from north to south. The peak viewing period in high-altitude areas of Hokkaido is from late September to early October, while the plains reach their peak after mid-October. Tohoku is the main viewing area, and peak autumn foliage in Kanto and Kansai typically does not occur until mid-to-late November.

Recommended destinations

Kyoto, Tokyo, Nara

Recommended attractions

  • Kyoto Kiyomizu-dera (illuminated autumn foliage)
  • Tokyo Meiji Jingu Gaien (ginkgo avenue)
  • Nara Todai-ji (autumn foliage)

Events and festivals

  • Peak autumn foliage in Kanto and Kansai (mostly in mid-to-late November)
  • Shichi-Go-San (Nov 15, children's blessing)
  • Culture Day (Nov 3)

Travel tips

The best viewing period for autumn foliage in Kanto and Kansai is mostly in mid-to-late November, and in some areas of Kyoto, it may extend into early December, with specific dates subject to that year's autumn foliage forecast. Temperatures drop to approx. 10–18°C, and mornings and evenings are cool, so a jacket is needed. Kyoto draws large crowds during the autumn foliage season, so we recommend you get up early or choose to view illuminated autumn foliage.

Recommended destinations

Tokyo, Kyoto, Hokkaido (Sapporo)

Recommended attractions

  • Tokyo Roppongi/Marunouchi (Christmas illuminations)
  • Kyoto (winter scenery)
  • Hokkaido Sapporo (snowscapes)

Events and festivals

  • Christmas illuminations
  • New Year's Eve (Dec 31) temple bell ringing, New Year visits, etc.
  • During the year-end and New Year holidays, some attractions, restaurants, and transport services may have adjusted schedules. We recommend checking business hours and booking your stay and tickets in advance.

Travel tips

Temperatures in Tokyo and Kyoto are low (approx. 5–12°C), and the snow season in Hokkaido begins, making warm clothing essential. Hotel prices increase around Christmas. During the year-end and New Year holidays (usually approx. Dec 29–Jan 3), some facilities adjust their business hours, so we recommend booking popular transport and stays as early as possible.
*Note: Festival dates, the best viewing periods for cherry blossoms and autumn foliage, and weather conditions may change based on annual schedules and climate variations. Please refer to official announcements for your destination and real-time weather forecasts before travelling. If you plan to take multiple long-distance train trips, we recommend comparing the prices and coverage of the JR Pass against single tickets in advance, and reserving reserved seats for peak times as early as possible.

FAQ about Japan train travel

  • Is Trip.com an official Japan Rail partner?

    Yes, Trip.com is an authorised JR partner, so you can book with peace of mind that you're getting official and guaranteed Japan train tickets.

  • How far in advance can I book Shinkansen tickets on Trip.com?

    You can book Shinkansen tickets up to 90 days in advance on Trip.com. It's a good idea to book early if you want to guarantee your seat and choice of departure time, as trains do sell out.

  • How do I collect my tickets booked on Trip.com?

    After booking, you'll receive an email with a QR code. For most routes, simply scan this at the ticket gate to board. On certain other routes, you'll need to scan your QR code at the green "Reserved Seat" ticket machine or show it at the JR Ticket Office to receive physical tickets.

  • Can I change or cancel my booking through Trip.com?

    Yes, you can change or cancel your train tickets through Trip.com, just remember to double-check the booking conditions for change and refund policy before booking.

  • How long does it take to receive my refund?

    You'll typically receive your refund within 7 to 14 days, depending on your bank and original method of payment. You can track the status of your refund in the "My Bookings" section of Trip.com.

  • Can I choose specific seats or ensure my group sits together?

    Yes, and Trip.com's booking system automatically prioritises sitting groups together. If you're travelling from Tokyo to Osaka and want to see Mount Fuji on the way, you can select the "Mount Fuji view" option in the seat preferences section when booking.

  • What should I do if my QR code fails to scan or I can't find the machine?

    In the unlikely event that your QR code fails, or if you can't find where to scan it, please contact the Trip.com customer service team and one of our specialists will be on hand to help.

  • What is the difference between Shinkansen and bullet train?

    There's no difference, they are the same. Shinkansen is the Japanese name for the high-speed bullet trains that connect Japan's major cities. Both terms refer to the same network.

  • What is the luggage size limit on Shinkansen?

    On the Shinkansen, if your suitcase's combined length, width, and height add up to more than 160cm, you'll need to reserve a special seat with extra storage space.

  • What is a JR Pass and how does it work?

    The JR Pass is a discounted rail pass for foreign tourists in Japan. It gives you unlimited rides on most JR trains, including Shinkansen, limited express, and local services, for 7, 14, or 21 consecutive days. One pass covers most of the country.

  • Can international travellers buy a JR Pass in Japan?

    Yes. The JR Pass is specifically for international tourists visiting Japan as temporary visitors, so you'll need to enter the country with a "Temporary Visitor" stamp in your passport to qualify.

  • Can I buy a JR Pass at the station?

    Yes, you can buy a JR Pass at the station but it's best to purchase in advance on Trip.com. Doing so saves you hassle at the ticket office and allows you to reserve seats early — this is especially important on popular routes like Tokyo–Osaka.