Travel Insight
Shinkansen Packing List
While the Shinkansen is already a highly comfortable way to travel, what you carry in your bag can make a huge difference. Here are our top recommended items to bring aboard.
Items to drastically improve your riding comfort
The Shinkansen is notoriously smooth, but your degree of comfort heavily depends on how prepared you are for the journey.
1. The Absolute Basics
- Smartphone
- Earphones / Headphones
- Portable Power Bank
👉 Start here for complete peace of mind.
As long as you have these, you can comfortably pass the time on even the longest cross-country routes.
As long as you have these, you can comfortably pass the time on even the longest cross-country routes.
2. Items for Comfort
For Relaxation
- Neck Pillow
- Eye Mask
- A light jacket or cardigan
For Productivity
- Laptop
- Tablet
- Notebook & Pen
For the Experience
- Camera (for Mt. Fuji and scenery)
- Snacks / Ekiben (Station Bento)
- Drinks (especially water or tea)
3. Frequently Overlooked Issues
- Dry Air: The air conditioning aboard the Shinkansen can dry out the cabin.
- Temperature Swings: It can get surprisingly cold in the summer due to heavy AC.
👉 Layers and Hydration are key
Bring a light, removable jacket even in the summer, and make sure you buy a drink at the station before boarding, as onboard cart services are being heavily reduced.
Bring a light, removable jacket even in the summer, and make sure you buy a drink at the station before boarding, as onboard cart services are being heavily reduced.
4. Summary
When packing your carry-on, consider three angles:
1. Necessities
2. Comfort & Temperature Control
3. Your Primary Goal (Sleep vs. Work vs. Sightseeing)
Balancing these will guarantee an excellent ride.
1. Necessities
2. Comfort & Temperature Control
3. Your Primary Goal (Sleep vs. Work vs. Sightseeing)
Balancing these will guarantee an excellent ride.