Riding on Japan’s Famous 186-Mile-Per-Hour Shinkansen Bullet Train; Review

The Shinkansen has been in operation since 1964, and has an impeccable safety record with no fatalities due to derailment or collision since its inaugural service.

Source: BBC, Japan Railways Group

The trains are easy and convenient as they run on dedicated tracks and only stop at major stations.

Source: Japan Railways Group

The busiest line is Tokaido, a westbound train that connects Japan’s major metropolitan areas of Tokyo, Nagoya, and Osaka.

Source: Japan Railways Group

According to Shinkansen operator Japan Railways Group, the Tokaido line “has literally supported Japan’s economic growth,” saying over 6.4 billion people have used the line since its inaugural service.

Source: Japan Railways Group

On a recent trip to Japan, I rode on the famous Tokaido bullet train. Here’s my experience in first class.

My journey started at Tokyo Station where I boarded an 8:00 a.m. train to Shin-Osaka Station. I paid $200 for my one-way ticket.

Finding the Shinkansen line was easy thanks to the multitude of signage pointing me in the right direction.

Although I pre-booked my train online, I had to pick up my tickets at the station. My confirmation email said I could use a kiosk or ticket booth, and I opted for the latter.

The line was long, but luckily I wasn’t pressed for time because I got to Tokyo Station at 6:30 a.m. instead of the suggested 7:30 a.m.

After about 20 minutes, I got my ticket and headed to track number 19 for boarding. The track was displayed on screens in both English and Japanese.

The super express train is popular in Japan, running at 186 miles per hour. It is the third-speediest bullet train in Japan but the fastest serving the Tokyo-Osaka route.

Two other bullet trains — Hayabusa and Komachi — bolt at 200 miles per hour, but do not serve Osaka.

I boarded “Green Car” number 9 and made my way to seat 4-D — a window seat. I luckily didn’t have anyone in the aisle seat next to me for the whole ride.

Configured in a 2×2 layout, the “Green Car” is for first class and is quieter and more spacious than ordinary cars. Though, it is about $40 more expensive than coach.

The car had mostly forward-facing seats, but there was also a quad-seating arrangement in the middle of the car.

Settling into my seat, I was impressed with the comfort of the lounger, which was huge and nicely cushioned. It was definitely better than airline domestic business class.

…a second smaller table that stored in the side armrest…

…free WiFi, though I’ll it was a little spotty…

…a power outlet for each passenger…

…a good-sized seatback pocket…

…a reading light and an adjustable window shade…

…and more than enough legroom for even the tallest travelers. I’m 5’3″ and could stretch my legs out.

There was also plenty of storage space for my carry-on and small duffel bag. I also had a backpack, but no one checked how many pieces I brought onboard.

However, there are some restrictions for oversized luggage. Select reserved cars have racks near the restrooms for big suitcases…

…while other trains require a special seat assignment. So, be sure to check during booking if your ticket comes with oversized bags.

Shortly after leaving Tokyo Station, the train started whizzing past the beautiful Japanese countryside — my favorite part of the journey.

I loved seeing the small towns and architecture, but the most incredible view was Mt. Fuji, an active volcano and Japan’s tallest mountain.

Its snow-covered peak was in full view thanks to clear skies. As someone who loves hiking and prefers mountains over beaches, I was thrilled to see it.

As Mt. Fuji faded from view, I explored more of the train and was amazed at how clean it was.

The carpets and seats were well-maintained…

The Shinkansen has been in operation since 1964, and has an impeccable safety record with no fatalities due to derailment or collision since its inaugural service.

Source: BBC, Japan Railways Group

The trains are easy and convenient as they run on dedicated tracks and only stop at major stations.

Source: Japan Railways Group

The busiest line is Tokaido, a westbound train that connects Japan’s major metropolitan areas of Tokyo, Nagoya, and Osaka.

Source: Japan Railways Group

According to Shinkansen operator Japan Railways Group, the Tokaido line “has literally supported Japan’s economic growth,” saying over 6.4 billion people have used the line since its inaugural service.

Source: Japan Railways Group

On a recent trip to Japan, I rode on the famous Tokaido bullet train. Here’s my experience in first class.

My journey started at Tokyo Station where I boarded an 8:00 a.m. train to Shin-Osaka Station. I paid $200 for my one-way ticket.

Finding the Shinkansen line was easy thanks to the multitude of signage pointing me in the right direction.

Although I pre-booked my train online, I had to pick up my tickets at the station. My confirmation email said I could use a kiosk or ticket booth, and I opted for the latter.

The line was long, but luckily I wasn’t pressed for time because I got to Tokyo Station at 6:30 a.m. instead of the suggested 7:30 a.m.

After about 20 minutes, I got my ticket and headed to track number 19 for boarding. The track was displayed on screens in both English and Japanese.

The super express train is popular in Japan, running at 186 miles per hour. It is the third-speediest bullet train in Japan but the fastest serving the Tokyo-Osaka route.

Two other bullet trains — Hayabusa and Komachi — bolt at 200 miles per hour, but do not serve Osaka.

I boarded “Green Car” number 9 and made my way to seat 4-D — a window seat. I luckily didn’t have anyone in the aisle seat next to me for the whole ride.

Configured in a 2×2 layout, the “Green Car” is for first class and is quieter and more spacious than ordinary cars. Though, it is about $40 more expensive than coach.

The car had mostly forward-facing seats, but there was also a quad-seating arrangement in the middle of the car.

Settling into my seat, I was impressed with the comfort of the lounger, which was huge and nicely cushioned. It was definitely better than airline domestic business class.

…a second smaller table that stored in the side armrest…

…free WiFi, though I’ll it was a little spotty…

…a power outlet for each passenger…

…a good-sized seatback pocket…

…a reading light and an adjustable window shade…

…and more than enough legroom for even the tallest travelers. I’m 5’3″ and could stretch my legs out.

There was also plenty of storage space for my carry-on and small duffel bag. I also had a backpack, but no one checked how many pieces I brought onboard.

However, there are some restrictions for oversized luggage. Select reserved cars have racks near the restrooms for big suitcases…

…while other trains require a special seat assignment. So, be sure to check during booking if your ticket comes with oversized bags.

Shortly after leaving Tokyo Station, the train started whizzing past the beautiful Japanese countryside — my favorite part of the journey.

I loved seeing the small towns and architecture, but the most incredible view was Mt. Fuji, an active volcano and Japan’s tallest mountain.

Its snow-covered peak was in full view thanks to clear skies. As someone who loves hiking and prefers mountains over beaches, I was thrilled to see it.

As Mt. Fuji faded from view, I explored more of the train and was amazed at how clean it was.

The carpets and seats were well-maintained…