Can you pay for Shinkansen with an IC card?

Riding the Shinkansen bullet train just got smoother. While you can use your IC card for access, it doesn’t actually deduct the fare from your card balance. Think of it as a convenient key. You tap your registered IC card at the gate to enter the Shinkansen platform, but the actual Shinkansen fare is charged separately to the credit card associated with your reserved ticket. So, while you won’t be paying for the Shinkansen directly with your IC card, it streamlines the boarding process, eliminating the need for paper tickets. Just make sure you have a valid Shinkansen reservation linked to a credit card, and you’re ready to roll. This system provides a seamless, cashless experience, allowing you to breeze through the gates and onto your high-speed journey across Japan.