Are there drinks on Shinkansen?

Quenching Your Thirst at 300km/h: Shinkansen Beverage Availability on the Hokuriku Line

The Shinkansen, Japan’s bullet train, is renowned for its speed, efficiency, and comfort. As you whiz across the country, taking in breathtaking landscapes, the question of onboard refreshments naturally arises. So, are there drinks available for purchase on the Shinkansen? The answer, like many things in life, is: it depends.

Specifically, it depends on which line you’re traveling on, and even which train within that line. Let’s focus on the Hokuriku Shinkansen, a popular route connecting Tokyo with destinations like Kanazawa.

If you’re planning a trip between Kanazawa and Tokyo using the Hokuriku Shinkansen, take note. While you can often anticipate being able to purchase drinks, it’s crucial to know which trains offer this convenient service.

Onboard Refreshments: Available on Select Trains

Fortunately, onboard sales of snacks, drinks, and even alcoholic beverages are available on some Hokuriku Shinkansen trains. The key is to look for the Kagayaki and Hakutaka services. These are the trains that typically offer the convenience of purchasing refreshments directly from a roving cart or vendor. Imagine sipping a cold beer or a refreshing juice while watching the Japanese countryside blur past at incredible speed!

The Catch: Not All Trains Offer the Service

However, before you start planning your onboard mini-bar experience, be aware that this service is not available on all Kagayaki and Hakutaka trains. The frequency of the cart service can vary, depending on the day and time of travel. There’s no guaranteed schedule, so relying solely on onboard purchases might leave you thirsty.

Furthermore, and crucially, this service is not available on the Tsurugi and Asama lines of the Hokuriku Shinkansen. These services, while still offering a comfortable and efficient journey, do not provide the option of buying drinks and snacks onboard.

Planning Ahead: The Best Approach

Therefore, the best strategy is to plan accordingly. If you’re traveling on the Tsurugi or Asama lines, or even on a Kagayaki or Hakutaka service where you’re unsure about the availability of onboard sales, it’s wise to purchase your drinks and snacks before boarding the train.

Stations along the Shinkansen lines are well-equipped with convenience stores (konbini) and vending machines offering a wide variety of beverages, from bottled water and green tea to coffee and local specialties. Take advantage of this opportunity to stock up on your favorites before you settle into your seat.

In Conclusion: A Little Planning Goes a Long Way

While the potential for onboard refreshment adds to the overall Shinkansen experience, it’s not a guarantee across all services. Knowing which lines and trains offer this amenity, and planning ahead with pre-boarding purchases, will ensure that you can enjoy a comfortable and hydrated journey, no matter which Shinkansen you choose. So, pack a drink, grab a bento box, and prepare to be amazed by the speed and efficiency of Japan’s iconic bullet train!