Travel Insight

How to Ride the Shinkansen

No need to worry. We will guide you through the entire process step-by-step, from buying your tickets to navigating the gates and boarding the train.

Buying Tickets, Gates, Platforms, and Boarding

1. The Basic Process

The 5 Steps to Riding the Shinkansen

Current → ① Buy Tickets → ② Pass Gates → ③ Wait at Platform → ④ Board Train → ⑤ Exit Station

The Shinkansen operates slightly differently than local commuter trains. As long as you remember that you need 2 tickets (a base fare + express ticket) and that the Shinkansen uses dedicated ticket gates, you won't get lost.

2. Purchasing Tickets

To ride the Shinkansen, you need both a "Base Fare Ticket" (same as local trains) and an "Express Ticket". It is most convenient to select methods that let you buy both simultaneously.

Booking Method Comparison

Method Features Recommendation
Midori no Madoguchi Talk to a staff member. Multi-language support available. ★★★★☆
Ticket Machine Touch panel. English interface available. ★★★★☆
Smart EX (App) For Tokaido/Sanyo lines. App booking, discounts applied. ★★★★★
JR Pass Unlimited rides. Exclusive to international tourists. ★★★★★
Online or app purchases are highly recommended

Using online platforms like Smart EX lets you skip long physical lines and ride using just your smartphone or IC card. You can also nab early-booking discounts of up to 50% off.
Read more Complete guide to buying Shinkansen tickets | Counters, Machines, & Online

3. Passing the Gates

The Shinkansen has dedicated ticket gates completely separate from local trains. Look for overhead signs that say "Shinkansen Transfer" or "Shinkansen Entrance".

If using Paper Tickets

  1. Proceed directly to the "Shinkansen Transfer/Entrance" gates without exiting the local train area.
  2. Insert both the Base Ticket and Express Ticket into the slot simultaneously.
  3. Make absolutely sure to grab both tickets when they pop out on the other side.
  4. Proceed toward the platforms.

If using Smart EX / IC Cards

  1. Approach the Shinkansen gates.
  2. Tap your registered IC Card (Suica/PASMO) against the reader.
  3. You will receive an automatic printout receipt—take it, but paper tickets are not required to enter.
Warning: You cannot use a regular Suica on its own

You cannot simply tap a standard IC card charged with money at the Shinkansen gate. You must have pre-registered that IC card with the Smart EX online booking system first.

4. Waiting at the Platform

After passing the gate, check the large electronic departure boards to match your train name and time with its assigned platform number.

Confirming your Boarding Position

  • The floor is painted with Car Numbers and Boarding Lines.
  • Non-reserved seating is usually located in Cars 1 through 3.
  • If you have a reserved seat, check the car number on your ticket and wait at that specific floor marker.
  • Green Cars are placed in different numerical sections, so verify thoroughly.
Arrive at the platform 10 minutes early

Shinkansen trains arrive precisely on time and often wait at the platform for just 2 to 4 minutes before leaving. Arrive early. Buy your snacks and bento boxes in the station concourse before heading up to the platform.

5. Boarding & Inside the Train

Reserved Seat

  1. Board the train through your designated Car Number door.
  2. Find your exact seat number (e.g., 10A).
  3. Place your belongings on the overhead rack or specifically by your feet.

Non-Reserved Seat (Free Seating)

  • You may choose any open seat within the designated non-reserved cars.
  • During busy holiday periods, it is best to line up at the platform well before the train arrives.
  • If all seats are taken, you are permitted to stand in the aisles.

Aboard the Train

  • Eating and drinking are fully permitted (Ekiben are a classic tradition).
  • Free Wi-Fi is available.
  • Power outlets are available (at window seats and row ends on all trains; all seats on newer N700S trains).
  • Smoking is prohibited except inside dedicated smoking rooms (which are being phased out).
Oversized Baggage Rules

If you are traveling with large luggage (dimensions exceeding 160cm combined), you are required to make a free advance reservation for an "Oversized Baggage Area Seat". Bringing it without a reservation will result in a penalty fee.

6. Disembarking

  1. Start gathering your trash and luggage as your destination approaches.
  2. Pay attention to the overhead display scroll and English announcements regarding your station.
  3. Once off the train, follow signs to the exit gates or transfer lines.
  4. Insert both tickets into the exit gate. (The tickets will be swallowed by the machine this time, unless you are transferring).
If you miss your train

If you miss a reserved Shinkansen train, your ticket is still valid to ride a non-reserved seat on any subsequent train that same day (valid for most lines like Tokaido/Sanyo).

7. FAQ

Q: How early should I arrive at the station?
A: We recommend arriving 20 to 30 minutes before departure. Arriving 15 minutes prior can feel incredibly rushed if you plan to buy a bento box, navigate large stations, or use the restroom.
Q: Can I just scan an IC card (like Suica) and get on?
A: No, not on its own. You must link your IC card to an online reservation system (like Smart EX) before the gate will accept it as a ticket.
Q: Reserved or Non-reserved?
A: We always recommend reserved seats for tourists, especially on weekends and national holidays. It guarantees a stress-free trip. Non-reserved is perfectly fine for short, mid-week journeys.
Q: Can I eat inside the Shinkansen?
A: Yes! Purchasing an "Ekiben" (station bento) and a drink before boarding is half the fun of Shinkansen travel in Japan.
Q: What if I get on the wrong train?
A: Find a train conductor or speak with the station staff immediately after getting off. You will simply have to pay a fare adjustment if you traveled the wrong distance or boarded a higher-tier train class.