Train journeys in Japan The ultimate guide for explorers & tourists

Japan is famous for its excellent, innovative, and incredibly reliable rail network that turns traveling into a true experience. This guide sums up all the essential information about train travel in Japan – from the advantages and linguistic peculiarities to the variety of train types, ticket options, IC-Cards, Rail Passes, luggage regulations, and cultural idiosyncrasies. This way, you are well-prepared to dive into the fascinating rail adventure.

Advantages of Train Travel in Japan

Traveling by train in Japan allows you to reach almost every corner of the country quickly, cleanly, and comfortably. Trains run at high frequency, virtually eliminating long waiting times. Thanks to the modern infrastructure, from the super-fast Shinkansen to the cozy local trains, you always have the right connection – whether you are in a big city or in remote regions.

Linguistic Tips and Information Systems

Although Japanese characters are predominantly used in menus and display boards, all major stations and long-distance routes feature bilingual signage. Announcements as well as ticket machines and counters are often available in English, which greatly simplifies navigation.

Providers and Train Operators

Japan Rail (JR)

Japan Rail, formerly state-operated and now privatized, runs the most extensive rail network in the country. The Shinkansen, the high-speed bullet trains that connect cities in record time, are particularly noteworthy. With the JR Rail Passes, you as a tourist can travel cost-effectively and without restrictions within a specified period.

Private Operators

In addition to JR, almost every major city has private operators. In Tokyo, companies such as Odakyu Electric Railway, Keio Corporation, Tobu Railway, Seibu Railway, and Tokyu Corporation are active, while in the Kyoto/Osaka region, local rail traffic is handled by companies including Keihan Electric Railway, Hankyu Railway, Hanshin Railway, and Kintetsu Railway. It is important to note that the Japan Rail Pass is only valid for JR trains, so separate tickets are required for private lines.

Overview of Train Types

Local (futsū)

Local trains stop at every station and function similarly to the S-Bahn in Germany. They are ideal for short distances and urban transit.

Express

Express trains only serve major cities, enabling faster journeys on regional routes – comparable to Regionalbahn in Germany.

Rapid Express

Rapid Express trains are similar to the Intercity (IC) in Germany, but without an extra surcharge. They travel longer distances with few stops, offering an efficient travel option.

Limited Express

Limited Express trains often operate to tourist destinations such as Onsen towns or resorts and are often reservation-only. Personally, I only use the Limited Express when there are no alternatives or when the travel time is drastically shorter – meaning if you only have about half the usual time available. For example, on the route to Hakone, where a Limited Express takes about 1 hour 34 minutes and the regional train takes about 1 hour 58 minutes, in my opinion it is not worth paying the extra cost for the Limited Express.

Super Express (Shinkansen)

The Shinkansen, known worldwide as the Bullet Train, connects cities at an amazing speed of up to 320 km/h. Due to high demand, seat reservations are advisable to avoid uncomfortable situations in crowded trains.

• The Shinkansen was introduced in 1964 between Tokyo and Osaka.

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• In 2014, it celebrated its 50th anniversary.

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• The maximum speed increased from an initial 210 km/h to up to 320 km/h.

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• Today, around 1 million passengers use this impressive system daily.

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Overnight Trains

Overnight Trains operate exclusively from Tokyo towards Takamatsu or Izumo and offer private compartments for a comfortable night journey. Reservations are particularly important here as the available spaces can fill up quickly.

Onboard Comfort

Green Car

The Green Car offers a first-class travel experience with more legroom and more comfortable seating – ideal if you value extra comfort.

Gran Car

The Gran Car class represents the luxury option onboard. Additional services such as waiter service, unlimited drinks, snacks, and Bento boxes are often offered. However, this class is not available on all trains.

Prices and Tickets – Overview of Selected Routes (Status: 06 April 2025)

Note that prices and travel times may vary depending on the train type and booking time.

Ticket Purchase and Reservation

You can purchase tickets at self-service machines as well as at counters in larger stations. It is advisable to have all relevant information such as your destination, departure time, and number of travelers ready before purchase. Travel agencies also offer train ticket sales. Seat reservations can be made up to one month in advance and are particularly recommended on weekends and holidays. When checking in and out, tickets are scanned and any discrepancies are settled at fare adjustment machines (Seisanki).

Convenient Payment Systems: The IC-Card

The IC-Card is a rechargeable, convenient transport ticket that can be used on trains (Local, Rapid, Express – but mostly not on Limited Express and Shinkansen), convenience stores, or at beverage machines. The fare is calculated based on the starting and ending points, and the remaining balance is displayed when you leave the station. All common IC-Cards generally work with each other, so for example, the Pasmo widely used in Tokyo can also be used on JR trains.

Rail Passes and Special Offers

For tourists planning extensive train journeys, Rail Passes offer an excellent price-performance ratio. The JR Pass as well as regional variants such as the Hokuriku Arch Pass, Kansai Thru Pass, Shikoku Rail Pass, and other options from JR East, JR Central, JR West, JR Hokkaido, or JR Kyūshū allow you to travel flexibly and cost-effectively.

City Pass

City Passes are valid for individual cities and include not only trains but also subways, buses, and trams – ideal for exploring big cities in their entirety.

Seishun 18

The Seishun 18 Pass is an inexpensive ticket that can be used on five days, but without the possibility to use Express trains and Shinkansen. It is perfect for leisurely trips with scenic routes.

Rules and Conduct on Trains

When boarding, always make sure that passengers exiting the train get off first. In crowded trains, it is advisable to carry your backpack close to your stomach to avoid hindering other travelers. Loud phone conversations, loud talking, or playing music are frowned upon – as is eating and drinking on most trains, although some Shinkansen offer suitable tables and beverage holders that allow you to dine during the trip. Reserved seats designated for the elderly, pregnant, or disabled should always be kept free.

Eating on the Train

In most trains, carrying food and beverages is not permitted. However, many Shinkansen allow eating due to the availability of tables and beverage holders, enabling you to eat at your leisure. A particular highlight is the so-called Ekiben – Bento boxes that offer regional specialties and turn dining into a culinary experience during the journey.

Route Planning and Planning Tools

Planning a train journey in Japan can be complex given the multitude of providers and connections. Recommended websites such as Hyperdia and Jorudan offer comprehensive information on timetables, costs, and connections. Personally, I recommend Google Maps , as this app not only displays detailed routes and travel times but has also proven itself in terms of user-friendliness and up-to-dateness.

Step-by-Step Guide to Train Travel

1. Have your ticket ready: Make sure your ticket, IC-Card, or Rail Pass is at hand.
2. Pass through the ticket gates: Hold your ticket against the turnstiles or gates and follow the instructions provided there.
3. Locate your train: Check the display boards or electronic monitors on the platform to identify your train. Do not hesitate to ask the station staff if in doubt.
4. Board the train: Board the train in an orderly manner and find your reserved seat.
5. Arrive at your destination: Exit the train only when the doors are fully open to ensure a smooth process.
6. In case of problems: Use the fare adjustment machine (Seisanki) if there are any discrepancies with the fare calculation or the selected route.

Useful Characters and Terms

• Current Station: Toeki (当駅)
• Recharge: Chaagi (チャージ)
• Exit: Deguchi (出口)
• Local Train: kakutei (各停)
• Express Train: Tokkyu (特急)
• Fare Adjustment Machine: Seisanki (精算機)
• North: Kita (北)
• East: Higashi (東)
• Priority Seat: Yusenseki (優先席)
• Semi-Express Train: Jutokkyu (準特急)
• South: Minami (南)
• West: Nishi (西)
• Train: Densha (電車)

These terms can help you navigate quickly in predominantly Japanese-speaking stations.

Other Particularities in Japanese Train Travel

Some trains have “Women Only” cars exclusively for women, offering additional comfort and safety. Also, Ekiben – regional Bento boxes specially assembled for train travelers – are a culinary highlight that presents the diversity of Japanese cuisine in a unique way.

IC-Card: Overview of the Most Important Cards

Using IC-Cards allows you to travel flexibly and cashlessly. The following table provides an overview of the common cards, their issuers/operators, coverage, and special features:

With these IC-Cards, you can travel flexibly and hassle-free – whether in big cities or remote regions.

Additional Transport Regulations

On trains and buses, carrying bicycles is generally not permitted. Dogs and other pets are only allowed in special cases to ensure smooth operation and safety for all passengers.

Luggage and Carry-on Regulations

Uncharged Items (Free Carry)

• Travel bags, suitcases, and similar luggage are permitted.
• Sports equipment, such as surfboards, may be carried provided they are transported in special surfboard bags.
• Musical instruments as well as entertainment items and toys are also allowed as long as they are secured and, if necessary, stored upright on the train.

Even if sports equipment or musical instruments have larger dimensions, they can be carried as long as they are securely packed and transported upright. ^[2]

Charged Items (Subject to Fees)

• For small dogs, cats, birds, or similar small animals, special regulations apply: they must be kept in a case that, in total (length, width, height), measures a maximum of 120 cm, and the combined weight of the case and the animal must not exceed 10 kilograms. Wild animals, snakes, etc., are exempt from this. ^[2]

Bicycles

• Bicycles used for racing or in sporting events must be disassembled and packed in bicycle travel bags.
• Folding bikes should be folded and stored in bicycle travel bags.

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Additionally

Assistance dogs (such as guide dogs, service dogs, or hearing dogs) are allowed to be carried (limited to those legally registered). Wheelchairs with a maximum length and height of 120 cm and a maximum width of 70 cm may be taken along. ^[2]

Conclusion

Train travel in Japan combines efficiency, comfort, and cultural fascination into a unique travel experience. From the variety of train types – from local connections to the super-fast Shinkansen – to flexible ticket options and Rail Passes, practical IC-Cards, strict luggage regulations, and charming particularities such as Departure Jingles, the Japanese rail system offers the right option for every traveler. My personal tip: use Google Maps for route planning, because this app provides you with precise and up-to-date information – a recommendation I make from personal experience. Furthermore, I consciously avoid the Limited Express in most cases, unless you are under urgent time constraints or the time saving is significant; for example, in my opinion, on the route to Hakone the Limited Express with 1 hour 34 minutes travel time versus the regional train with 1 hour 58 minutes is not worthwhile when the price difference is considered.

So whether you are planning a quick city trip or prefer to leisurely explore the rural idyll of Japan – with this guide you are well-prepared to fully enjoy the fascinating Japanese rail network.

Sources:

1. Japan.go.jp – The Shinkansen, Japan’s High-Speed Rail
2. SoraNews24 on Departure Jingles
3. JR Central – Luggage and Carry-on Regulations