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Buy Shinkansen Tickets Online, Info and Prices

Buy Shinkansen Tickets: How to Travel Japan by Bullet Train

The Shinkansen is Japan’s fastest and most convenient way to travel between cities. Book Shinkansen tickets online for direct access to top routes like Tokyo–Kyoto, Tokyo–Osaka, and more. With bullet trains departing every few minutes, you can reserve your seat in advance and skip the lines at the station.

Travel demand is highest during cherry blossom season (March–April) and summer holidays (July–August), when Shinkansen tickets sell out fast. For more seat options and better prices, buy your Shinkansen tickets early, especially if you plan to travel in November or February when trains are less crowded. Shinkansen tickets starts at 19$ (2200¥).

Popular Shinkansen Routes and Ticket Booking

Booking Shinkansen tickets gives you fast, direct access to Japan’s most visited cities and attractions. Whether you want to experience Tokyo’s city life, Kyoto’s temples, or Osaka’s food scene, you can reserve your bullet train seat online for every major route.

1
Tokyo to Kyoto

Book Shinkansen tickets for Japan’s top route and reach Kyoto from Tokyo in just over 2 hours—secure your seat online before you travel.

2
Tokyo to Osaka

Buy bullet train tickets for this popular city-to-city trip and enjoy a comfortable ride to Osaka’s main attractions.

3
Tokyo to Hiroshima

Reserve Shinkansen seats to visit Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park and explore the city the same day.

4
Tokyo to Nagoya

Purchase tickets online and travel quickly between Tokyo and Nagoya for business or sightseeing.

5
Tokyo to Fukuoka (Hakata)

Book in advance for the long-distance Shinkansen to Fukuoka, connecting eastern and western Japan with ease.

6
Osaka to Kyoto

Get your Shinkansen ticket for a fast, frequent ride between two of Japan’s cultural capitals.

1
Tokyo to Kyoto

Book Shinkansen tickets for Japan’s top route and reach Kyoto from Tokyo in just over 2 hours—secure your seat online before you travel.

2
Tokyo to Osaka

Buy bullet train tickets for this popular city-to-city trip and enjoy a comfortable ride to Osaka’s main attractions.

3
Tokyo to Hiroshima

Reserve Shinkansen seats to visit Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park and explore the city the same day.

4
Tokyo to Nagoya

Purchase tickets online and travel quickly between Tokyo and Nagoya for business or sightseeing.

5
Tokyo to Fukuoka (Hakata)

Book in advance for the long-distance Shinkansen to Fukuoka, connecting eastern and western Japan with ease.

6
Osaka to Kyoto

Get your Shinkansen ticket for a fast, frequent ride between two of Japan’s cultural capitals.

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Shinkansen Bullet Train Network and Ticket Booking

Shinkansen Bullet Train Network and Ticket Booking

Japan’s Shinkansen network covers the entire country, with high-speed bullet trains connecting every major city. Use our interactive map to compare routes, see travel times, and check Shinkansen ticket availability for all lines—including Tokaido (Tokyo–Osaka), Sanyo (Osaka–Hiroshima–Fukuoka), Hokuriku (to Kanazawa), and Hokkaido (to Hakodate).

Ready to travel? Select your route on the map and instantly book your Shinkansen tickets online for any journey in Japan.

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With our free app, train booking is easy and rewards add up fast. Every ticket you book brings you closer to discounts for future trips, so you save even more while exploring the World by Rail.
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FAQ: Shinkansen Tickets – Booking & Buying

Is it cheaper to buy Shinkansen tickets in advance?

Shinkansen fares are generally set by the rail operator, but booking early with Rail Monsters guarantees you won’t pay more due to last-minute surges or limited seat availability. Our platform occasionally features exclusive early bird or multi-ticket offers. By reserving in advance, you get better choice of train and class—and the security of knowing your seat is waiting for you.

How do I use my Shinkansen ticket at the station?

Rail Monsters sends you a QR code or e-ticket that works at Shinkansen ticket gates. Simply scan your ticket at the gate for direct entry. or in some cases you need to get the ticket from the ticket machine available at the station. In any case, together with your QR code you will get the exact instructions. If you need a paper ticket, your confirmation includes instructions for station pickup. Traveling with Rail Monsters means you’re ready to board as soon as you arrive—no additional steps or lines at the station.

What’s the difference between reserved and unreserved Shinkansen seats?

When you book with Rail Monsters, you can choose between reserved seats—which guarantee your spot on the train—and unreserved seats, which are available in specific cars on a first-come, first-served basis. Reserved seats are best for groups or anyone who wants certainty, especially during peak periods. Rail Monsters lets you select your preference at checkout for every ticket.

Can I buy Shinkansen tickets for children or groups?

Yes, Rail Monsters supports bookings for children and groups. Children under 2 can travel free without a seat, while children aged 2–11 receive a discount. For families or groups, booking all tickets together ensures you’re seated in the same area. Rail Monsters makes it easy to reserve multiple seats and see real-time availability so everyone travels together.

How do I book Nozomi, Hikari, or other Shinkansen trains?

On Rail Monsters, you’ll see every available Shinkansen train for your chosen route—Nozomi, Hikari, Kodama, Hayabusa, Mizuho, and more. Our platform allows you to compare departure times, journey duration, and prices across all train types. Simply select your preferred train during booking and Rail Monsters will handle the rest, sending you all travel details by email.

Are there discounts on Shinkansen tickets?

Rail Monsters regularly checks for available discounts, multi-ticket deals, and seasonal offers. While single-ticket discounts are rare, booking in advance with Rail Monsters ensures you never miss a special fare. Our platform shows all available options—if there’s a cheaper way to book, you’ll see it during your reservation process.

When do Shinkansen tickets go on sale?

Rail Monsters opens ticket sales 1 year before, even if the official booking window starts—typically 30 days before departure at 10:00 am Japan time. Early booking gives you first choice of seats and schedule for any Shinkansen route.

How do I buy Shinkansen tickets online?

Buy your Shinkansen tickets online with Rail Monsters in just a few clicks. Simply choose your route and travel date, select the bullet train (Nozomi, Hikari, Kodama, etc.) that fits your schedule, and pay securely. With Rail Monsters, you receive your e-ticket or QR code instantly by email or in the app. Just scan your code at the ticket gate or pick up a paper ticket if needed. Our platform lets you compare all available trains, seat classes, and prices for easy, stress-free booking before you travel.

Why should I buy Shinkansen bullet train tickets in advance if there are many trains throughout the day?
Despite the frequent departures of Shinkansen services, especially on routes like Tokyo to Osaka, securing your tickets ahead of time guarantees your seat during peak travel periods, such as holidays or weekends. High-demand trains, like the Nozomi, tend to reach capacity quickly, and booking in advance enables you to secure your preferred travel time and class. Moreover, early booking can save you time at the station, allowing direct boarding without delays.
Can I buy Shinkansen tickets at the station on the day of travel?

You can buy tickets at the station, but with Rail Monsters you can secure your seat ahead of time and avoid crowded ticket counters. Same-day tickets may be limited or unavailable for busy routes or times. Booking online with Rail Monsters ensures you have your ticket before you reach the station, making your travel experience smooth and stress-free.

Where can I buy Shinkansen tickets?

You can buy Shinkansen tickets at train stations or directly online with Rail Monsters. Booking online with us means you skip the station lines and guarantee your seat, even during busy seasons. Our site shows live availability and lets you reserve tickets for any Shinkansen route across Japan. With Rail Monsters, you’ll get clear ticket options, instant confirmation, and support if you need to make changes before your trip.

How far in advance can I book Shinkansen tickets?

With Rail Monsters, you can reserve Shinkansen tickets up to 1 year before your departure. As soon as sales open, our platform displays live seat availability and pricing for every train and class. For busy periods or group travel, booking as soon as possible is recommended. Rail Monsters will send your tickets and updates directly to your email, so you’re ready to board as soon as you arrive in Japan.

Should I buy Shinkansen tickets in advance?

We recommend booking your Shinkansen tickets in advance with Rail Monsters for the best seat selection and peace of mind. Trains on popular routes like Tokyo–Kyoto and Tokyo–Osaka can sell out quickly, especially during holidays and cherry blossom season. By reserving early on Rail Monsters, you lock in your preferred departure time and seat class, avoiding the risk of full trains or higher fares closer to your travel date.

How much do Shinkansen tickets cost?

Ticket prices for the Shinkansen vary by route, train type, and class. For example, a one-way ticket from Tokyo to Kyoto with Rail Monsters typically starts at ¥15,000–¥17,000 in standard class. Our booking system allows you to see real-time fares for Ordinary, Green, and Gran Class, helping you find the right balance between comfort and budget. All fees and taxes are shown upfront, so there are no surprises at checkout.

Can I book Shinkansen tickets from outside Japan?

Yes, you can buy Shinkansen tickets from anywhere in the world with Rail Monsters. Our site is designed for international travelers, offering a fully digital experience in English and other languages. Select your trip, pay securely, and get your tickets instantly by email. This lets you plan your Japan itinerary with confidence and skip the hassle of navigating Japanese ticket machines or language barriers.

Is it cheaper to buy Shinkansen tickets in advance?

Shinkansen fares are generally set by the rail operator, but booking early with Rail Monsters guarantees you won’t pay more due to last-minute surges or limited seat availability. Our platform occasionally features exclusive early bird or multi-ticket offers. By reserving in advance, you get better choice of train and class—and the security of knowing your seat is waiting for you.

How do I use my Shinkansen ticket at the station?

Rail Monsters sends you a QR code or e-ticket that works at Shinkansen ticket gates. Simply scan your ticket at the gate for direct entry. or in some cases you need to get the ticket from the ticket machine available at the station. In any case, together with your QR code you will get the exact instructions. If you need a paper ticket, your confirmation includes instructions for station pickup. Traveling with Rail Monsters means you’re ready to board as soon as you arrive—no additional steps or lines at the station.

What’s the difference between reserved and unreserved Shinkansen seats?

When you book with Rail Monsters, you can choose between reserved seats—which guarantee your spot on the train—and unreserved seats, which are available in specific cars on a first-come, first-served basis. Reserved seats are best for groups or anyone who wants certainty, especially during peak periods. Rail Monsters lets you select your preference at checkout for every ticket.

Can I buy Shinkansen tickets for children or groups?

Yes, Rail Monsters supports bookings for children and groups. Children under 2 can travel free without a seat, while children aged 2–11 receive a discount. For families or groups, booking all tickets together ensures you’re seated in the same area. Rail Monsters makes it easy to reserve multiple seats and see real-time availability so everyone travels together.

How do I book Nozomi, Hikari, or other Shinkansen trains?

On Rail Monsters, you’ll see every available Shinkansen train for your chosen route—Nozomi, Hikari, Kodama, Hayabusa, Mizuho, and more. Our platform allows you to compare departure times, journey duration, and prices across all train types. Simply select your preferred train during booking and Rail Monsters will handle the rest, sending you all travel details by email.

Are there discounts on Shinkansen tickets?

Rail Monsters regularly checks for available discounts, multi-ticket deals, and seasonal offers. While single-ticket discounts are rare, booking in advance with Rail Monsters ensures you never miss a special fare. Our platform shows all available options—if there’s a cheaper way to book, you’ll see it during your reservation process.

When do Shinkansen tickets go on sale?

Rail Monsters opens ticket sales 1 year before, even if the official booking window starts—typically 30 days before departure at 10:00 am Japan time. Early booking gives you first choice of seats and schedule for any Shinkansen route.

How do I buy Shinkansen tickets online?

Buy your Shinkansen tickets online with Rail Monsters in just a few clicks. Simply choose your route and travel date, select the bullet train (Nozomi, Hikari, Kodama, etc.) that fits your schedule, and pay securely. With Rail Monsters, you receive your e-ticket or QR code instantly by email or in the app. Just scan your code at the ticket gate or pick up a paper ticket if needed. Our platform lets you compare all available trains, seat classes, and prices for easy, stress-free booking before you travel.

Why should I buy Shinkansen bullet train tickets in advance if there are many trains throughout the day?
Despite the frequent departures of Shinkansen services, especially on routes like Tokyo to Osaka, securing your tickets ahead of time guarantees your seat during peak travel periods, such as holidays or weekends. High-demand trains, like the Nozomi, tend to reach capacity quickly, and booking in advance enables you to secure your preferred travel time and class. Moreover, early booking can save you time at the station, allowing direct boarding without delays.
Can I buy Shinkansen tickets at the station on the day of travel?

You can buy tickets at the station, but with Rail Monsters you can secure your seat ahead of time and avoid crowded ticket counters. Same-day tickets may be limited or unavailable for busy routes or times. Booking online with Rail Monsters ensures you have your ticket before you reach the station, making your travel experience smooth and stress-free.

Where can I buy Shinkansen tickets?

You can buy Shinkansen tickets at train stations or directly online with Rail Monsters. Booking online with us means you skip the station lines and guarantee your seat, even during busy seasons. Our site shows live availability and lets you reserve tickets for any Shinkansen route across Japan. With Rail Monsters, you’ll get clear ticket options, instant confirmation, and support if you need to make changes before your trip.

How far in advance can I book Shinkansen tickets?

With Rail Monsters, you can reserve Shinkansen tickets up to 1 year before your departure. As soon as sales open, our platform displays live seat availability and pricing for every train and class. For busy periods or group travel, booking as soon as possible is recommended. Rail Monsters will send your tickets and updates directly to your email, so you’re ready to board as soon as you arrive in Japan.

Should I buy Shinkansen tickets in advance?

We recommend booking your Shinkansen tickets in advance with Rail Monsters for the best seat selection and peace of mind. Trains on popular routes like Tokyo–Kyoto and Tokyo–Osaka can sell out quickly, especially during holidays and cherry blossom season. By reserving early on Rail Monsters, you lock in your preferred departure time and seat class, avoiding the risk of full trains or higher fares closer to your travel date.

How much do Shinkansen tickets cost?

Ticket prices for the Shinkansen vary by route, train type, and class. For example, a one-way ticket from Tokyo to Kyoto with Rail Monsters typically starts at ¥15,000–¥17,000 in standard class. Our booking system allows you to see real-time fares for Ordinary, Green, and Gran Class, helping you find the right balance between comfort and budget. All fees and taxes are shown upfront, so there are no surprises at checkout.

Can I book Shinkansen tickets from outside Japan?

Yes, you can buy Shinkansen tickets from anywhere in the world with Rail Monsters. Our site is designed for international travelers, offering a fully digital experience in English and other languages. Select your trip, pay securely, and get your tickets instantly by email. This lets you plan your Japan itinerary with confidence and skip the hassle of navigating Japanese ticket machines or language barriers.

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