What are the two types of Shinkansen tickets?

Navigating the Japanese Shinkansen: Types of Tickets Explained

The Japanese Shinkansen, also known as the bullet train, is renowned for its unparalleled speed, efficiency, and comfort. To ensure a seamless travel experience, it’s essential to understand the different types of Shinkansen tickets available.

Basic Fares: Connecting Japan’s Railway Network

Basic fares cover travel on all Shinkansen lines, including the high-speed Nozomi and Mizuho services. These tickets provide access to non-reserved seating in ordinary cars. They are the most economical option for short-distance or non-peak hour travel.

Supplemental Tickets: Enhancing Comfort and Speed

Supplemental tickets are purchased in addition to basic fares to access express services and premium seating. These include:

• Express Train Tickets (Tokkyu Ken): These tickets grant access to reserved seating on express trains, such as the Nozomi, Mizuho, and Hayabusa services. Express trains offer faster travel times than ordinary services, reducing journey durations by up to 30 minutes.

• Green Car Tickets (Green Ken): Green car seats are premium, oversized seats with ample legroom and reclining capabilities. These tickets also include complimentary newspapers, drinks, and snacks. Green car tickets provide the highest level of comfort on the Shinkansen.

Choosing the Right Ticket for Your Needs

The choice of ticket depends on your specific travel requirements:

• Basic Fare: Suitable for short-distance travel or non-peak hour trips when speed and comfort are not priorities.

• Express Train Ticket: Ideal for medium to long-distance travel where time-saving is a consideration.

• Green Car Ticket: Recommended for extended journeys or for passengers seeking the utmost comfort and convenience.

When purchasing Shinkansen tickets, remember to consider the additional cost of supplemental tickets. By selecting the appropriate combination of basic and supplemental fares, you can optimize your travel budget and comfort while experiencing the unparalleled efficiency of the Japanese Shinkansen.