A Must-Ride in Japan! The Wonderful Shinkansen Experience
Among the wonderful trains in Japan, the one that particularly attracts attention from around the world is undoubtedly the “Shinkansen.” When visiting Japan, it’s not just the sightseeing spots and beautiful landscapes that you should enjoy; experiencing the Shinkansen as a mode of transportation is also something you shouldn’t miss. The Shinkansen is loved by many both domestically and internationally for its speed, comfort, and the Japanese-style attentive service.
So why is the Shinkansen so highly regarded and attracting global attention? The reason lies not only in its speed but also in the intricate combination of technological innovation, safety, punctuality, and environmentally considerate design. It operates at speeds exceeding 300 kilometers per hour while maintaining an extremely low risk of accidents and ensuring a quiet and comfortable atmosphere during the ride. Due to this level of technology and quality, countries around the world are attempting to adopt Japan’s Shinkansen technology.
Moreover, riding the Shinkansen offers an experience beyond just transportation. The views from the windows allow you to savor Japan’s seasonal landscapes, featuring a variety of sights such as Mount Fuji, rural scenery, and urban skyscrapers. Additionally, you can enjoy local gourmet foods and bento boxes from various regions, further enhancing the joy of your journey.
This article will provide a detailed introduction to the charm, history, technical aspects of the Shinkansen, as well as specific routes and recommended experiences. Riding the Shinkansen itself can become a purpose of your trip—it’s a special experience you won’t want to miss. When you come to Japan, be sure to ride this wonderful railway!
N700S
The N700S operates as “Nozomi,” “Hikari,” and “Kodama” on the Tōkaidō Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Shin-Osaka Station, and further on the Sanyō Shinkansen to Hakata Station. It stops at major tourist-friendly stations such as Nagoya, Kyoto, Shin-Osaka, and Hiroshima, making it convenient for sightseeing and local cuisine. With a maximum speed of 300 kilometers per hour, it provides a comfortable and speedy mode of transportation.
Additionally, the N700S has been introduced on the newly opened section of the West Kyushu Shinkansen, running from Takeo Onsen Station to Nagasaki Station as the Shinkansen “Kamome.”
Features
The most significant feature of the N700S is the significant improvement in safety and comfort. Notably, it has a battery system that allows it to travel a certain distance in case of a power outage or disaster, ensuring safer travel. Furthermore, the comfort inside the train has evolved, with improved seat comfort and power outlets available at every seat. It is also designed for high quietness, allowing passengers to enjoy conversations or relaxation during their journey.
Trivia
The N700S features a system where the interior lights brighten as the train approaches a stopping station. This is designed to help passengers remember their belongings by drawing attention to the overhead luggage racks just before arrival. As the train arrives at a station, the lights gradually dim. This feature is not equipped in models other than the N700S, so if you have the chance to compare it with the N700A, it will be very interesting.
Moreover, some cars are equipped with a full active vibration control system to suppress lateral swaying, installed in the Green Cars and cars 1, 5, 12, and 16. You should definitely experience the minimal swaying.
500 Series
The 500 series is currently active as “Kodama” on the Sanyō Shinkansen, renowned for its futuristic design and speed. When it debuted, it attracted attention as a Shinkansen that could run at a maximum speed of 300 kilometers per hour. Today, it primarily operates in the Sanyō Shinkansen segment as “Kodama” and does not run at 300 km/h, connecting Shin-Osaka Station and Hakata Station.
Features
The 500 series is distinguished by its advanced streamlined design. The front of the train is aerodynamically designed, resembling a fighter jet to minimize wind resistance. This design made it the fastest Shinkansen at the time of its introduction, captivating many fans with its futuristic visuals. The interior is also equipped with the latest technology of its time, achieving a balance of quietness and comfort.
Trivia
The 500 series features a driving seat for children to enjoy. When they grip the steering wheel, the speedometer changes, providing a driver-like experience that is particularly popular with families traveling with children. Additionally, there are Hello Kitty-wrapped trains operating, and their special visuals are loved by many fans. However, the operation of the 500 series has been decreasing year by year, with all formations scheduled to retire by 2027. Therefore, don’t miss this rare opportunity to ride the 500 series!
800 Series
The 800 series operates as “Tsubame” and “Sakura,” connecting Hakata Station and Kagoshima Chūō Station on the Kyushu Shinkansen. Major stopping stations include Kumamoto Station and Shin-Yatsushiro Station. It offers a more relaxed journey with a maximum speed of 260 km/h.
Features
The most notable feature of the 800 series is its elegant design that incorporates a taste of traditional Japanese aesthetics. The interiors use a lot of wood, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The seat designs reflect traditional crafts from various regions of Kyushu, showcasing unique motifs that embody local culture. The color schemes and patterns of the seats differ from those of other Shinkansen, making the time spent inside a special experience. Its simple yet dignified design is highly regarded by passengers.
Trivia
Each car of the 800 series actually has a different seat design. Each car features unique motifs, with varying upholstery and patterns, so there’s a fun element of discovery each time you ride. Even in the free seating cars 1 to 3, you can enjoy three different seat designs.
E5 and H5 Series
The E5 and H5 series run as “Hayabusa” and “Yamabiko” on the Tōhoku and Hokkaido Shinkansen, extending from Tokyo Station to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station. Important stopping stations include Sendai Station, Morioka Station, Shin-Aomori Station, and Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station. They have the highest speed in Japan at 320 kilometers per hour, combining speed and comfort.
Currently, one formation is fully wrapped as the “Magical Journey Shinkansen,” featuring Disney Fantasy Springs.
Features
A distinctive feature of the E5 and H5 series is the “Gran Class,” which rivals first-class air travel. In Gran Class, you can enjoy spacious seating and high-quality service for a comfortable journey.
The front of both trains features an arrow-shaped long nose that measures 15 meters to reduce air resistance and minimize the “tunnel boom” effect when entering tunnels. This design further enhances the quietness and comfort of the ride.
Trivia
The E5 and H5 series have several differences. The E5 series is characterized by its green and white color scheme with a pink stripe, while the H5 series features a purple stripe instead of pink. The logos on the sides of the trains also differ; the H5 series has a logo inspired by the majesty of Hokkaido and the white-tailed eagle that flies to Hokkaido. Additionally, the carpet and door designs inside the trains differ; the E5 series has a simple design, while the H5 series features patterns inspired by Hokkaido’s nature. The H5 series isn’t as widely operated, so if you have the chance to see or ride it, noticing the differences will be interesting.
E6 Series
The E6 series operates as “Komachi” on the Akita Shinkansen and is characterized by its bold red and white coloring that resembles a sports car. The E6 series is designed to operate on conventional rail lines and achieves high-speed travel despite its narrow body.
Starting from Tokyo Station, the E6 series connects with the E5 series up to Morioka Station and then continues to Akita Station. It also reaches a maximum speed of 320 kilometers per hour, allowing for smooth travel.
Features
The standout feature of the E6 series is its bold red and white coloring reminiscent of a sports car, along with its design that allows it to operate on conventional rail lines.
The E6 series undergoes coupling and uncoupling operations with the E5 series at Morioka Station. This operation is visually impressive, captivating many passengers and train enthusiasts, especially children. Every day at Morioka Station, people buy tickets just to observe this coupling and uncoupling process. However, there is a significant caution: if passengers heading toward Akita see the uncoupling operation of the Shinkansen they intend to board, they may be left behind at Morioka Station.
Trivia
The E6 series operates on the Akita Shinkansen, which also includes conventional train segments. Interestingly, the track widths differ, with conventional lines at 1,067 mm and Shinkansen lines at 1,435 mm. To accommodate both types of trains, a special “three-track” section exists between Jinguji and Mine Yoshikawa stations, featuring three sets of tracks. Japan has only four locations where this three-track system is employed, and one of them is on this section of the Akita Shinkansen.
Additionally, the E6 series trains that run on conventional lines are designed to be approximately 40 cm narrower than typical Shinkansen models. This design adjustment helps mitigate the gap between the train and the platform, especially in the Tōhoku Shinkansen section, where the platform gaps are larger. To address this, the E6 series features an automatic step mechanism that deploys when the train arrives at the station. After departing, these steps retract quickly, but passengers can catch a glimpse of them if they look back after getting off the train.
At Omagari Station, the Akita Shinkansen uniquely employs a switchback maneuver. The journey from Ōmagari to Akita takes about 30 minutes, meaning many passengers arrive at Akita Station facing backward without needing to rotate their seats.
While the E6 series typically operates as the all-reserved Komachi service, there are a few trains each day that offer free seating options, known as the Yamabiko and Nasuno services. These trains can often be less crowded and are a great opportunity for travelers looking to experience the E6 series without a reservation.
After the March 2024 timetable revision, here are the key free-seating train services:
Downward Services:
- Yamabiko 205: Departing Tokyo at 7:44 AM, arriving in Sendai at 10:05 AM
- Yamabiko 53: Departing Tokyo at 8:45 AM, arriving in Sendai at 10:49 AM
- Nasuno 261: Departing Tokyo at 3:12 PM, arriving in Koriyama at 4:47 PM
- Yamabiko 219: Departing Tokyo at 7:28 PM, arriving in Sendai at 9:38 PM
- Nasuno 271: Departing Tokyo at 8:28 PM, arriving in Nasushiobara at 9:36 PM
- Yamabiko 223: Departing Tokyo at 9:44 PM, arriving in Sendai at 11:46 PM
- Nasuno 277: Departing Tokyo at 10:00 PM, arriving in Nasushiobara at 11:07 PM
- Nasuno 279: Departing Tokyo at 10:16 PM, arriving in Nasushiobara at 11:24 PM
Upward Services:
- Nasuno 254: Departing Nasushiobara at 6:12 AM, arriving in Tokyo at 7:20 AM
- Nasuno 256: Departing Nasushiobara at 6:24 AM, arriving in Tokyo at 7:32 AM
- Nasuno 264: Departing Nasushiobara at 7:18 AM, arriving in Tokyo at 8:26 AM
- Yamabiko 204: Departing Sendai at 6:23 AM, arriving in Tokyo at 8:33 AM
- Yamabiko 126: Departing Sendai at 8:07 AM, arriving in Tokyo at 10:07 AM
- Nasuno 280: Departing Koriyama at 5:37 PM, arriving in Tokyo at 7:16 PM
- Yamabiko 152: Departing Sendai at 5:25 PM, arriving in Tokyo at 7:28 PM
- Yamabiko 220: Departing Sendai at 7:20 PM, arriving in Tokyo at 9:44 PM
Do note that if you tell children they can ride the Komachi but instead board the Yamabiko or Nasuno, they might be disappointed if they hear the onboard announcements referring to those services instead!
E7 and W7 Series Shinkansen
The E7 series is operated by JR East, while the W7 series is run by JR West, both serving the Hokuriku Shinkansen under services named “Kagayaki,” “Hakutaka,” “Tsurugi,” and “Asama,” as well as the Joetsu Shinkansen’s “Toki” and “Tanigawa.” The Hokuriku Shinkansen operates between Tokyo Station and Tsuruga Station, with key stops including Karuizawa, Toyama, and Kanazawa. The Joetsu Shinkansen runs from Tokyo to Niigata Station. The maximum speeds are 260 km/h for the Hokuriku Shinkansen and 275 km/h for the Joetsu Shinkansen.
Features
Similar to the E5 series, both the E7 and W7 series trains are equipped with a “Gran Class” service. Unlike the E5 and E6 series, they do not operate at speeds exceeding 300 km/h, which is why they do not feature the Arrow Line design. Instead, they have a one-motion line design that offers a simple, streamlined appearance. The interior designs for Gran Class, Green Cars, and Ordinary Cars each reflect unique elements of Japanese aesthetics.
Trivia
The main differences between the E7 and W7 series are their side logos and chimes. The E7 series bears the logo “JR EAST,” while the W7 series features “JR WEST.” The W7 series also has a special chime called “Hokuriku Roman,” but it operates in fewer formations, so hearing this chime can be a rare treat. It’s worth preparing in advance to compare whether you’re riding an E7 or W7 series train!
E8 Series Shinkansen
The E8 series debuted on March 16, 2024, operating as the “Tsubasa” service connecting Tokyo Station to Shinjo Station. Key stops along the route include Fukushima, Yonezawa, and Yamagata Stations, making it convenient for accessing tourist destinations like Zao Onsen. The maximum speed has increased from 275 km/h with the E3 series to 300 km/h, contributing to an overall speed increase for the Tōhoku Shinkansen. Like the E6 series, the E8 series is a mini Shinkansen, featuring retractable steps to bridge the gap at stations on the Tōhoku Shinkansen line.
Features
The E8 series uniquely reflects the nature and culture of Yamagata while maintaining the E3 series design. Its color scheme is inspired by the snow of Zao, featuring a base of “Zao Bianco” white, adorned with “Oshidori Purple,” which represents the decorative feathers of Yamagata’s bird, the Mandarin Duck. A yellow-to-red gradient in the ordinary car seating enhances the interior’s visual appeal.
The nose of the E8 series is designed similarly to the E5 and E6 series, featuring an Arrow Line shape, but because it does not operate at speeds of 320 km/h, its nose is shorter at 9 meters, compared to 15 meters for the E5 series and 13 meters for the E6 series.
Trivia
In the E8 series, power outlets are conveniently located at the base of the armrests, reducing the risk of damage from foot traffic. Additionally, mirrors above the luggage racks are installed to help passengers remember their belongings. It’s important to note that the E8 series is not yet running on all “Tsubasa” services, so those interested should check the dedicated E8 series website for the latest operational updates.
The Unique Appeal of Each Shinkansen
Shinkansen trains are designed to meet varying performance and specifications based on the regions they serve and the purposes they fulfill. For example, the Tōkaidō Shinkansen prioritizes high-speed capabilities and mass transport to efficiently move large numbers of passengers in a short time. Conversely, routes like the Akita Shinkansen, which also include conventional train sections, require a compact design that accommodates both high-speed travel and standard railway operations.
Developing a single Shinkansen model that satisfies all these diverse requirements is challenging due to cost and technological constraints, which is why multiple models are created to meet specific needs.
Each Shinkansen possesses its unique allure, offering new discoveries with every ride. Travelers can enjoy the thrill of high-speed travel or take in the scenic views at a leisurely pace, providing diverse experiences that captivate not only Japanese travelers but also railway enthusiasts and tourists from around the world. On your next visit to Japan, be sure to ride the Shinkansen and experience its multifaceted charm!
